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Doug Cook
12th
340th
BOMB GROUP SQUADRONS
Columbia AAB, SC, 20 Aug. 1942
Walterboro, SC, 30 Nov. 1942 - 30 Jan.1943
El Kabrit, Egypt, March 1943
Medenine, Tunisia, March 1943
Sfax, Tunisia, Apr. 1943
Hergla, Tunisia, 2 June 1943
Comiso, Sicily, 2 August 1943
Catania, Sicily, 27 August 1943
San Pancrazio, Italy, 15 October 1943
Foggia, Italy, 19 November 1943
Pompeii, Italy, 2 Jan. 1944
Guado (Paestum), Italy, 23 March 1944
Corsica, 14 April 1944
Rimini, Italy, Apr. - 27 July 1945
340th BOMB GROUP MISSIONS INDEX
487th Bombardment Squadron History
WAR DIARY
This colorful diary
was published as a squadron newsletter and found its way into the National
Archives.
Thanks for the generous
contribution to history from:
57th Bomb Wing Site and Dan Setzer
Original documents transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
JUMP TO:
[Transcriber's note: Some entries are truncated. Please see the
original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: 1st Lt. Clifford W. Swearingen, 487th BS.
Period covered:
beginning of day-to-day currently written account. This part of
the history was not
written currently with the facts reported. It was written in
September and October, 1943,
and sources were memory, personal diaries, and various official
and semi-official
reports. Consequently, matters chronicled here are only
approximately accurate.
On the morning of March 29th the troops were ready to debark from
the U.S.S. West Point. The 487th
was among the first to unload from the side doors of the ship to
the barges. The barge we were on was
quite crowded with men and barracks bags, and since there were no
sides, there was some fear that
someone might fall off. Perrone for a moment seemed to have gone
that way, but he showed up after a
little while, late. He had got on the wrong barge. There was a
crowd of ragged natives lugging Yank
baggage down the gangplank. When the barge was filled, we pulled
away from the old
noted again how enormous she appeared there in the water......The
harbor was littered with sunken
hulls, and speculation and interest was high. We were new to such
sights......We unloaded at the docks
at Port Taufiq and prepared to board a peculiar little train for
gage trains were a novelty – quite different from the
perhaps an hour to reach Geneifa, a tiny station stuck out in the
middle of hot sand. After unloading,
we waited in this barren place for an hour or so until Major
Whittington, our Squadron Commander,
drove up. After greeting the men he hadn't seen for several
months, he told us briefly of the air
echelon's trip. We were saddened to hear that two crews had been
lost on the way over......The air
echelon had left for
and they rode in cars dating back to the gaslight era. They
arrived at Kellogg on February 3rd and
accepted 14 B-25's. On February 12th or thereabouts they began
taking off for Morrison Field, West
leaving Morrison Field for their destination on February 18. On
that day, not long after take-off,
Operations Officer Frances X. Tehan, leading a flight of six
airplanes, was observed flying into a
dangerous weather mass. He ordered the other pilots over the
command set to avoid the area but
apparently was unable to do so himself. He and his crew were
reported missing and presumed lost.
Included in the number were F/O Robert Lytle, co-pilot; 1st Lt.
Robert Crowell, navigator; M/Sgt. Jess
Brazell, aerial engineer; T/Sgt. James Hughbanks, radio operator;
S/Sgt. Russell Hinchman, gunner;
and M/Sgt. Richard Hanson, passenger......At
reported to Major Whittington that wreckage of a B-25 airplane
believed to be that piloted by F/O
Lester Long was found near
denied to Major Whittington. Little hope was held for the other
occupants of the plane. Missing and
also presumed lost were F/O Long's crew and a passenger: F/O Edwin
Welcome, co-pilot; 1st Lt. Jo
Davidson, navigator; S/Sgt. John Roth, aerial engineer; T/Sgt.
George Cummings, radio operator;
S/Sgt. Athel Pate, gunner; and T/Sgt. Carleton Budd, passenger.......At
Natal, Brazil, on March 5, the
plane piloted by 1st Lt. Claude Garrett crashed in takeoff with no
injuries to crew and although the
damage was not extensive the plane was left there with the Air
Transport Command. The crew and one
passenger of the wrecked plane were flown to
The other eleven planes of the Squadron were strung out along the
lengthy air route to
ahead of the accidents, and some behind. Hopping to
Atlantic and on to
first ship to come in was that piloted by Lt. Johnson, who arrived
March 10th. Lt. Lambert, assistant
operations officer, brought in the last ship of the Squadron on
March 29th, and arrived at El Kabrit a few
hours after the Ground Echelon......
El Kabrit
Photos 487th Squadron Album
of Capt. Chas. Cook
March 30th to April 11th TOP
El Kabrit seemed at first quite forbidding. Food was a novel
helter-skelter mess of mess kits and long
wash lines. The flat stretches of sand were white and hot except
for one Sunday when they blew up
into a magnificent sandstorm that canceled church services and and
put the mess hall tables under an
eighth of an inch of dirt. Buildings were sandbagged and looked
like Beau Geste forts. Hangar roofs
were pierced ominously with machine-gun holes. Story had it that a
man was killed while sitting on a
toilet seat. Nights were cold as kraut. It even rained one
evening.....But Kabrit was not all bad. It was
there that we received our first mail since February, and some men
received thirty and forty letters the
first day. A British NAFFI and a tiny PX sold canned fruit and
movie, showing very old pictures, under whose grass ceiling the
birds flew in the daytime and the bats
flew at night (Captain Meriwether was bombed by a feathered
friend). The YMCA, overlooking blue
Officers Club sold big cold bottles of powerful Canadian Ale. But
pleasantest of all was the sense of
impending excitement. Major Whittington was as eater as any boy to
get into the “blue,” and could not
hide his anticipation. He seemed far younger than he had seemed in
Walterboro, as if worries of
preparation had fallen from his shoulders once that period of
preparation had ended.......Officers of the
well-known 12th Bombardment Group were on hand to prepare us for
combat. Captain Marcan
counseled in operations – Captain Sewell gave advice to the S-2
section.......Many of the Squadron had
a chance to visit surrounding cities. There were flights to Tel
Aviv and
Ishmalia. And
his sightseeing for differences from or similarities to the good
old Unightd States. Most of our men,
when traveling, search for the latter. That's the reason they
often find “nothing there” when visiting
famous places. To some,
a colorful slice of the orient – Cleopatra's exotic city – ancient
birthplace of the world. Definightly, it
was a hard place to find a good cup of coffee.......Many will
remember Groppi's for excellent pastry,
Sheppard's hotel for good liquor, and the pyramids for an
energetic camel ride. The Grand Hotel was
an appreciated gift to Service men from the American Red
Cross......
“That was the town.” Renowned as having cleaner streets than
neighboring
more Westernized, its swank beach hotels reminding one of similar
establishments in the States. Mixed
in with these was a large complement of dives where a coup of tea
for the Egyptian ladies brought a
handsome fee. The crescent beach, bordered with clean modern
buildings and here and there a pointed
minaret, had a misty sparkling quality that must have caught
Cleopatra's eye when she barged in there
with Anthony......A highlight of the layover at El Kabrit was the
first overseas pay call. Because no one
had been paid in several months, the total amount was enormous –
about $40,000 dollars. It was all
paid in “Wallpaper” money – big vari-colored sheets of distinctly
inferior paper -- “Wog money.”
Nearly everyone experienced difficulty with the coins, since some
were of equal size and unequal value
while others – with or without holes – were of unequal size and
equal value. Nobody was fond of
“pissasters.”......The squadron spent several days in training,
chiefly skip-bombing. Then on April 8,
two crews struck out for the “Blue.” Pilots were Lts. Flack and
Johnson. Two cooks – McCarter and
Tetrault – really had the honor of being the first of the squadron
to go up. They preceded the combat
crews in a DC-3......Kalaponidas also went by transport plane, on
the same day the Ground Echelon
departed. He carved his niche in history when he held up the
wheels of war and ATC to look for his
rifle.....On April 8, Lts. Flack and Johnson flew from Kabrit to
Castel Benito, a final maintenance check
point for aircraft entering forward operational areas. Following inspection
of their planes they
proceeded to Medenine, then a forward operational field, where
other planes of the 340th Group were
based, as well as ships of the 12th Bombardment Group. On April
16, both Groups moved up to El
Maou airdrome, Sfax, evacuated by the Axis a few hours earlier.
Four days earlier, Lts. Flack and
Johnson, riding as co-pilots in planes of the 83rd Squadron (12th
Group), participated in a 12th - 340th
bombing mission and were thus the first pilots of the squadron to
see combat service. On April 19, Lt.
Flack participated in another combat mission, this time with his
entire crew: 1st Lt. John T. Hollis, Jr.,
co-pilot; 1st Lt. Syndey C. Ormsbee, bombareier; T/Sgt. Robert
Goulding, radioman; and S/Sgt. Eugene
Hobart, gunner......On Good Friday, April 23, Lts. Flack and
Johnson and their respective crews
participated in a 12th - 340th attack on an enemy airdrome at
Soliman, at dusk, after turning back from
the same target earlier in the day because of failure of the
fighter escort to meet them. In the evening,
however, the required fighters were on had to meet the bombers
from El Maou, and accompanied by A-
30's (Baltimores) and A-20's (Bostons) the raiders went through
heavy flak to smash their target. Lt.
Johnson's plane was shot down in flames and he and his crew were
recorded “Missing in Action.” With
him were 1st Lt. William B. Hille, co-pilot; 1st Lt. Joseph F.
Schooley, bombardier; T/Sgt. George B.
French, and S/Sgt. Spencer Bomberger. No enemy aircraft were
encountered......Two days later, on
Easter Sunday, Major Whittington, riding as pilot in a plane of
the 489th Squadron with Lt. Deel,
operations officer of that organization, as co-pilot, and a 489th
crew, took off to participate in another
mission. In the assembly maneuvers around the field his ship and
another crashed and dove to earth
with armed bomb loads. Major Whittington and the other victims –
all personnel were lost – were
given military burial in a cemetery outside of Sfax where German,
Italian, and British soldiers were
buried. It was the Major's third combat mission in the Middle East
Theater......Captain Donald J.
Marcan, a veteran 12th Group pilot, who had been assigned to the
Squadron April 5th while in an
attached capacity at El Kabrit, was appointed Commanding Officer
on April 25 to succeed Major
Whittington, and ordered to proceed to the front. He left the
following day with 1st Lt. Arthur R.
Warnock, leaving Lt. Warnock and his crew at Castel Benito and
continuing to Sfax by Air
Transport......The nine airplanes of the Squadron remaining at El
Kabrit, as well as six ships of the
489th, had in the meanwhile been flown to the Deversoir depot for
modification of a significant nature.
Five fixed .50 calibre machine guns were mounted in the nose in
such a manner that the pilots could
fire them simultaneously.. It was the belief of General Brereton,
at whose command the modifications
were effected, that the ships thus changed were rendered
particularly effective for skip bombing against
defended boats and ships, especially troop-carrying barges. Three
of the Squadron's modified ships,
piloted respectively by 1st Lt. Henry J. Schreiner, operations
officer, 1st Lt. Horace L Henderson, and 1st
Lt. Harold H. Wilkerson, and their crews, were dispatched to Sfax
via Castel Benito (April 26-
30)......The five airplanes of the Squadron remaining at El Kabrit
flew to Castel Benito April 30th,
remaining there until May 3, when they proceeded to Sfax. They
were piloted respectively by 1st Lt.
Louis F. Parsons, 1st Lt. Homer H. Willhite, 1st Lt. Ray I.
Sherbourne, F/O John Simenitzky, and F/O
Harley H. Anderson, and their crews......Meanwhile, 135 officers
and men of the Squadron of the
Ground Echelon piled into a bunch of trucks and headed for
Sfax, Tunisia
Photos Hergla, Tunisia Photos 487th Squadron Album of
Capt. Chas. Cook
April 12th TOP
Somewhere around dawn the Squadron was ready to take off, but
evidently the trucks were not.
Headquarters used up a bunch of trucks. All the other Squadrons
loaded their men. And by the time
the 487th was ready to pile in, there wasn't enough
transportation. Major Whittington stood by, calm
but infuriated. Major Paul bounced from truck to truck, and
eventually into Major Whittington. When
the convoy pulled out of the gates, the 487th was mixed up with
everybody else in the 340th, and trucks
were busting at the seams......The first day was definightly the
hardest. There was no lunch, and the
evening meal was served between 10 and 11 at night. We almost
starved, but when we finally did eat,
the “C” rations really did taste good......We lost several trucks
on the first day, some catching up with us
days later. They began dropping out as we entered
was a hectic day. Sgt. Preswich, in charge of keeping the wheels
rolling, was very cheerful during the
ordeal......It may be recorded that a few lucky people rushed back
to a roadside café, after we had
parked for the night, and bought great quantities of things to
eat.
13th
The battlefields through which we passed were seven months old,
but they were, to us, thrilling
evidences of past struggle. The convoy traveled almost 200 miles
today, and much of that distance was
covered with wreckage and graves. The graves probably impressed us
most. At least 50 miles of
today's roads were very bad. Late in the afternoon we arrived at
our camp site, and area near a NAAFI
called “Noah's
liked the EPIP dining salon, with flowers in bright shiny shell
cases, and linen on the tables. “How
nice of the British,” we thought, “and so typical. A tea shop in
the desert.”
14th
We left Noah's
also had a fancy name of some sort. It served tea, but it was
impossible to keep the green-girted tative
waiter from pouring milk into it. The NAAFI, in a building this
time, was well stocked with canned
peaches, pears, pickles, etc, and most of it was transferred
shortly to our trucks. We didn't mean to
starve, even if there were to be no stops for a
Most of us were intrigued by the name.
15th
Left Bug Bug at 0630 hours and arrived at Solum at 1030. The
convoy wound up one side of a 2000
foot hill, and wound down the other. The burning question was :
Will the gas trucks make it? They
did, but it must have put gray hairs in the heads of the drivers.
We traveled 145 miles, mostly up and
down, and pitched camp at El Adem.
16th
A rest day. Trucks were checked and oiled and greased. nearly
every one visited El Adem airport
nearby and gossiped with the Limeys there. One young fellow
working in armament liked P-40's but
he figured American designers hadn't built such complicated
machines for repair at fileds like El Adem.
Tobruk was not far distant, and attracted everyone because of its
recent history. There were 8 ships
sunk in the harbor, and the town, very much out of bounds, was
blown up considerably. The grave
yard, quite neat and simple, attracted many visitors. It was laid
out in sections for the various
nationalities. There were three or four Americans among the many
British, Italians, and others. Sgt.
Walter N. Jung found one German grave with the name “Walter N.
Jung” on the black head cross.
M/Sgt. Lynch was among those impressed by the inscription in the
cemetery: “At the setting of the
sum and in the morning we shall remember them.”
17th
Left El Adem at 0700 hours and passed Tobruk at 1000. The country
was flat and sandy covered with
cactus and sparse bushes. The convoy traveled 112 miles and
stopped at Matruba for the night.
18th
Left Matruba at 0630 hours, came down a terrifically steep hill to
Derna, on the sea. The road followed
the sea for a while after leaving the pleasant, pretty town, and
then went into the hills again. It had
been blown out in places, and the convoy had to craw through a
number of detours, or “diversions” as
the British called them. Senagalese were working on the roads. For
20 miles or so, the hills reminded
one of
Italian colonial program. The fertile valley was checked with
small plots of ground, each with
its stucco home with “Colonization Libia” inscribed on the front.
For a given number of homes, there
was a community center, with a church and shops. Occupants of the
project were gone, or so it
seemed. From the hills overlooking the valley, the land was green
all the way to the sea, which could
be seen miles away......Our camp for the night was outside Barce.
Communications finally got its radio
to functioning, and we got the news by short wave from
characterized by a heavy dew......Several officers went into the
officers club at Barce, where they had a
well-served but skimpy meal of something that could have been
camel meat. There was beer and
whiskey (Canadian Club) in limited quantities.
19th
Traveled from 75 to 80 miles, through tree-covered plateau to the
dry coastal flats. A great deal of
equipment scattered along the roads. The convoy went through
rather rocky area. We marveled at the great number of Liberator
bombers we saw.
20th
Stayed at Kilo 18 all day, everybody cutting everybody else's
hair. In the afternoon several trucks,
loaded with soldiers, drove into
have got on in
crowded. While we were there, tow truck loads of shouting singing,
hand-clapping Negroes drove up
for their baths. They popped out of the lorries, fell into a quick
formation, stomped their feet in several
brisk facings, and fell out again. They were British pioneer
troops, and didn't speak a word of English.
They were certainly black......The communications men led a
song-fest at night after chow. The old
songs sounded very nice.
21st
Left Kilo 18 at 0630, passed Agidabia
Mosquitoes bit like hell.
22nd
Departed camp at 0700 hours. Passed El Agheila at 1100. We expected
a town of considerable
proportions, considering its fame, and were surprised to find only
2 buildings. From there the road
meandered over a stretch of flat land to a distant border of
hills. “Colonel” Blume rode up and down
the convoy spreading the news that an explosion on the other side
of the hills might prove interesting.
He thought a supply dump had been attacked by German planes. It
turned out to be a British truck,
burning at the side of the road. A load of mines, saved for use in
demonstrations, had exploded. One
man was burned to death, and was buried by the smoldering lorry at
the side of the highway. Another
severely injured man was taken to a hospital in one of our
ambulances......We stopped at Marble Arch at
1400 hours, and everyone promptly went in swimming in the
very clear.
23rd
Good Friday. Traveled 120 miles through sage desert. Passed
Nufilia at
hours. Chaplain Cooper held services at 1830 in front of dispersed
trucks on the side of a hill. Catholic
services were held by T/Sgt. Buller, who read the Stations of the
Cross.
24th
Passed Sirte at 0830 and Bureta at 1100. The roads were good
except where blown out. Camped at an
isolated place by the side of the road.
25th
Left camp at 0730 and passed Misurata at 1000. Camped between
about 120 miles. Major Paul went on into
rather than Medennine, would be our destination. Easter Services
were held by Chaplain Cooper after
the evening meal. All were impressed by the simplicity and
solemnity of the occasion. T/Sgt. Buller
again held Catholic devotions. Mail was taken up for posting in
487th’s C.O.
Major Cyrus Whittington was killed in action at Sfax, Tunisia April 25,
1943. (487th Squadron Album of Capt.
Chas. Cook)
26th
About 0100 hours in the morning a fire broke out in the chow trucks
and every guard in the convoy
fired his rifle. The convoy passed through
motor transport going to the front, was held up for a couple of
hours. We camped in a grove of tall
palm trees about 30 miles outside of
heard so much about had finally caught up with us......About dark
a guard (probably Brown, on the gas
trucks) got news from a passing soldier that a flying Major had
been killed in an airplane crash at Sfax
on Easter Sunday, and that a plane of the 340th had been shot
down. There was no other news, but the
“flying Major” could be none other but Major
Whittington......There was an air raid over
night......
27th
Roughest roads of the entire trip. Drove 143 miles to Medennine,
stopping there at 1600 hours. The
country was little more than a wasteland.
28th
Left Medennine at 0900 hours and passed the famous Mareth Line (or
what we thought was the Mareth
Line) at 1100 hours. Lots of tank traps and barbed wire. The
country was greener, with many lush
orchards and vineyards. At 1800 hours the 1900 miles journey was
completed when we skirted Sfax
and drove into El Maou airport......We were greeted by Lts.
Ormsbee and Flack, who told us briefly of
what had happened – that Major Whittington had been killed in a
field crash on Easter Sunday, and that
Lt. Johnson's ship had gone down over the target. They themselves
had been on missions and had
already learned to crawl up into their helmets. Captain
Meriwether, who had served as Group
Executive officer with the advance echelon, told us that Major
Whittington and others killed in the
crash had been buried with military honors in the cemetery at Sfax......So
ended the second separation
of the various elements of the Squadron.
29th
The Sfax area was very pleasant. We had been told when we left
And we did. There were almond trees (we thought they were
peaches), fruit trees, and olive trees.
There were even rose bushes in bloom. The weather was pleasant –
not very hot in the daytime, and
cool enough for two or three blankets at night......Digging slit
trenches was something new for us.
Most dug them wide and deep. Sgt. Kosack's was one of the very
best.......A great deal of time and
energy was spent in making tent life confortable.
30th
The job of digging in the tents was real work. The soil, being
soft, presented no real difficulty. But the
shoveling did.......Most of the squadron had chow at the 489th
mess and the rest ate with the 486th, our
own mess hall having remained in Kabrit to serve those staying
there. Mess tents had not yet been put
up, and we ate on benches in the open (if you could find a bench).
The “C” rations had not yet grown
so very monotonous. Kalaponidas began to bake some good white
bread, and there was plenty of
peanut butter and jelly. Maybe our appetites were being built up
by the digging, but our four good
friends – chili con carne, corned beef, meat and vegetable hash,
and spam – didn't taste bad at
all.....Trouble was had keeping wash water hot enough.
Captain Marcan was becoming known as a good guy and showed promise
of being a swell
commanding officer. He was trying to bring to the 487th some of
the improvised comforts of the 12th
Group. A shower bath was being constructed (Sgt. King appeared to
be in charge, or something). The
ready room was being converted into a pleasant reading room.
2nd
The war to the North was drawing to a close. Sgt. James Johnson
made a bet with Cpl Lewis Lloyd
that it would be over by May 15th. We saw a few evidences of it –
Sfax was raided – the guns around
the harbor made a pretty barrage, like the 4th of July. And being
tenderfeet we hit slit trenches on
double time. After all, we could very well have been an alternate
target.
3rd
In Sfax we had our first chance to examine a bombed city and talk
to the residents. In the dock area
and the business section adjacent the damage was great. Some bombs
had hit in the old Arab section of
town, and some citizens were saddened and somewhat angered by this
bombing of non-military
objects. Some blamed the Americans, and some said it might have
been the Germans. Most shrugged
“C'est la guerre.” They liked us and asked us to their homes and
to their dances. We did not like to eat
their food because there was great scarcity of food in the
town......The fields of grain were ripe and
yellow around the airport. An agreement was being worked out with
the Arab governor whereby the
workers could come in and cut their crop.
4th
Combat crews and partial combat crews of the squadron participated
with personnel and airplanes of
the 489th Squadron in a 36-shop raid on Zagonan on the shrinking
Tunisian front. Although all aircraft
of the 340th and 12th Groups returned, the raid was not an
unqualified success, since one of the two
groups – it is difficult to determine which – dropped its bombs
behind the allied line, causing material
damage. In the mission, which went over the target about 0815, Lt
Schreiner flew as co-pilot, his first
combat assignment, with Lt. Flack and his crew. Other 487th pilots
who flew as co-pilots were 1st Lt.
Wilkerson, 1st Lt. Henderson, and 1st Lt. Warnock......It is worth
pointing out in connections with this
operational activity in
marked aerial inferiority of the Axis in this theater following
the push from Alamein, our bombers were
wont to encounter little fighter opposition on their raids,
although the opposition by by anti-aircraft fire
was disastrously powerful.
5th
The camels bouncing placidly across the familiar GI scene offered
a continuous source of amusement.
Their incongruity (“they look like they were made from different
parts of several animals,” someone
said) never failed to bring a laugh, and their enormous loads of
junk – like the great piles heaped on the
little jackasses – made them even more comical. The “Wogs” (as the
native Arabs were called) did not
appeal to the American soldier. He could not forgive them their
dirt, their laziness, and their penchant
for overcharging for their eggs and vino......The Yacht Club boys,
the indefatigable team who had
entertained us on the
6th
One airplane and two crews of the 487th Squadron participated in a
36-ship bombing mission against
supply dumps and troop concentrations at Furna and Massicault. In
addition, several first pilots,
inexperienced in combat, rode co-pilot with pilots of the 489th
Squadron. The 36 ships in the mission
were from the 12th and 340th Bomb Groups and were covered by
Spitfires and P-40's. Leading the
formation in “El Senor,” a 487th plane, was Col. William C. Milla,
Commanding Officer of the 340th
Group. Captain Donald Marcan was his co-pilot. Other crew members
were 1st Lt. Edgar C. Penney,
Group Bombing Officer; T/Sgt. Gordon Warren, radio man; and Sgt.
Russell E. McGuire, gunner, the
latter two of whom were making their first combat missions.
Take-off was at 0615......The formation
encountered very heavy flak after entering enemy territory and the
leading ship with Colonel Mills and
Capt. Marcan was hit and seen to to down in flames. Reports that
three parachutes were seen to stream
out of the falling ship were unconfirmed......The formation went
over the target at 0746 and placed their
bombs with excellent results in the target area, where the 69th
and 86th Panzer Grenadiers were known
to be retreating. As a result of Allied raids on this target and
on St. Cyprien, about 10 miles closer to
abandoned in the retreat......Two of the returning 25 planes made
belly landings and one bailed out its
crew over the field before crashing with a bomb load. Major
Bachrach, co-pilot, brought in a ship
whose pilot, Lt. Bennett, had been killed......In the afternoon at
1401 hours, 18 ships of the 12th and
340th Groups took off for the St. Cyprien target. This time the
raiders encountered much less intense
flak and all planes returned safely. On the raid from the 487th
Squadron were Lt. D. Scott, pilot of the
489th Squadron; Lt. Arthur R. Warnock riding as co-pilot; Lt.
Robert N. Peterson, Navigator-
Bombardier; T/Sgt. Edgar L. Kinsinger, radio man; and S/Sgt. Fred
L. Hall, gunner. Lt. Kile of the
489th Squadron piloted ship #42-32246, assigned to the 487th, with
1st Lt. Homer H. Willhite acting as
co-pilot.
7th
No missions. 1st Lt. Lewis F. Parsons assumed command of the
Squadron, succeeding Captain Donald
J. Marcan......The fall of
Bon would be rather long. We felt that the Germans would be
difficult to pry loose from the rugged
terrain of the peninsula.
8th
Four of the squadron's crews flew in a 36-ship formation of the
12th and the 340th Groups against
Pantelleria landing ground. Attacking the same target where five
large formations of A-30's and A-20's.
All of the 12th and 340th Group's airplanes returned without mishap.
Over the target the ack-ack was of
moderate intensity and poor accuracy. It was said of the Italian
A/A gunners that they shot before and
after bombs away, but took to their holes when the bombs began to
fall. Only one lone gunner, to
whom the squadron felt it should drop a medal in a bottle, kept
popping away while the bombs landed
well on the field and runways......The participants were: Lts.
Marshall E. Lambert, Benjamin S. Howle,
and Robert N. Peterson; T/Sgt. Joseph Wynne, and S/Sgt. Herbert Birkley.
Lts. Harold Wilkerson,
Harold H. Hague, and Robert J. Sather; T/Sgt. Dominic Grillo, and
S/Sgt. William Durie. Lts Don W.
Scott (489th), Arthur R. Warnock, Henry F. Wrede; T/Sgt. Edgar l.
Kinsinger, and S/Sgt. Frederick
Hall......Lt. Parsons flew his first combat mission, as co-pilot
for Lt. Wagner of the 489th Squadron.
9th
Mothers Day. Arrangements were made for telegrams to be sent,
somewhat late......The airfields and
landing ground on
and 340th Groups, including five ships and 3 crews from the 487th
unloaded on the target. The 340th
element of 18 ships took off at 0702, crossing the target at 0814
with a fighter escort waiting there, and
dropped all bombs in the target area, starting a number of fires.
There were no casualties or damage to
our aircraft. The participants were: Lts. Warnock, Sherbourne, and
Sullivan; T/Sgt. Kinsinger, and
S/Sgt. Hall....F/O
Henderson, Howle, and White, T/Sgt. Furey and S/Sgt. Bilodeau.
10th
In the morning the airfield and dispersal area at
the barracks there. In the afternoon the attack was shifted to the
harbor area......The first attack was at
0835 and started four fires. The general comment of those
participating in the raid was that it was the
most effective raid staged on this target by our planes.
Participants: Lts. Flack, Schreiner, Ormsbee;
T/Sgt. Goulding, S/Sgt. Hobart......Lts. Sherbourne, McCabe,
Wrede, S/Sgt. Bernstein, S/Sgt.
Berry......Lts. Willhite, Emslie, Cunningham; T/Sgt. Pitonyak,
S/Sgt. Dzialo......When the raiders went
over the harbor in the afternoon, many of the bombs fell in the
water, but some fell on the town and
docks and started fires. Participants: Lts. Henderson, Brophy,
White; T/Sgt. Furey, S/Sgt.
Bilodeau......F/O's Anderson and Lewis, Lt. Sather; T/Sgt. Berninger,
S/Sgt. Crane......Lts. Warnock,
Fonda, Sullivan; T/Sgt. Kinsinger, S/Sgt. Hall.....F/O's
S/Sgt. Hickman.....Lts. Wilkerson, Hague, Loysen; T/Sgt. Grillo,
S/Sgt. Durie.
11th
While the 6th Armored Division of the British 8th Army were
cutting through from
Hammamet to slice off the entire Cap Bon peninsula, and elements
of the 19th French Corps were
driving Northeast through Zagouan, the 487th Squadron participated
in an allied bombing smash aimed
almost at the center of the considerable pocket of troops who were
thus surrounded above the
Enfidaville Line. Three crews from the 487th and 33 other crews
from the 340th and 12th Groups
battered gun emplacements at Djebel El Krera, about 10 miles
Northwest of Enfidaville. Crews
reported they hit the target 24 times with a good pattern.
Participants: Lts. Flack, Hollis, Ormsbee,
T/Sgt. Goulding, S/Sgt. Hobart......Lts Howle, Parsons, Peterson;
T/Sgt. Furey, S/Sgt.
Bilodeau......F/O's
12th TOP
Organized Axis resistance in
and a half years of violent struggle on battlefields from
Only one strong pocket of axis resistance located in the hills
behind Enfidaville, still rejected German
General Freyberg's order to surrender. General Von Arnim, who had
succeeded as actual supreme
commander of the Axis forces in
peninsula, trying to escape......On this last day of resistance an
18-ship formation of Mitchells from the
12th and 340th Groups bombed enemy gun installations and troops in
the pocket of resistance above
Enfidaville. Three combat crews and airplanes of the 487th
Squadron participated in the mission. they
were over the target at 1530 and started three fires and
apparently silenced some light A/A guns firing
below. Friendly troops outlined the target area with white smoke.
Participants: Lts. Lambert, Garrett,
and Brown; T/Sgt. Wynne, S/Sgt. Birkley......Lts. Warnock, Fonda,
Sullivan; T/Sgt. Kinsinger, S/Sgt.
Hall......Lts. Wilderson, Leete, Loysen; T/Agt. Grillo, S/Sgt.
Durie......An English Air Liaison Officer at
El Maou reported news from
His condition was unknown and the fate of the other occupants of
“El Senor” was still a matter of
conjecture......Col. A. E. Tokaz, 340th Group Commander, reported
that 1st Lt. Frances X. Tehan, the
squadron's operations officer when the 487th left the States, was
said to be safe in
with 4 others of his crew after living for 21 days on “K” rations
on a
when his plane disappeared Feb. 18 into a turbulent weather area
between
F/O Robert Lytle, co-pilot; 1st Lt. Robert Crowell, navigator;
M/Sgt. Jess W. Brazell, aerial engineer;
T/Sgt. James Hughbanks, radio operator; S/Sgt. Fussell Hinchman,
gunner; and M/Sgt. Richard
Hanson, passenger.
Thus ended the North African campaign, just one month after Lts.
Flack and Johnson rode as co-pilots
to become the first men of the 487th to see combat. There were
still 33 officers and enlisted men
remaining in Kabrit, and 3 crews and planes were yet to arrive.
The squadron had not yet flown a full
squadron formation, but nearly all the crew members had been
checked out in combat on at least one
mission, and they definightly knew what it was like. And they were
to carry on without stopping, just as
if a great campaign had not come to an abrupt and very decisive
end.
487th Squadron Album of
Capt. Chas Cook
General Orders
EXTRACT
Commendation of Organizations for Distinguished Service. The
following-named organizations of the
9th U.S. Air Force are commended for their distinguished service
in the
hereinafter described:
The 340th Bombardment Group (M), Desert Air Task Force, Ninth
Unightd States Air Force. For
outstanding performance of duty in action against the enemy in
direct tactical support of the British 8th
Army in the Tunisian campaign in the Middle East Theater from
march, 1943, to the capitulation of the
Axis forces in
directly behind the advanced echelons of the ground forces and
operating through all types of weather
and despite frequent enemy attacks, the flying and ground
personnel of this organization at all times
exhibited the greatest courage, resourcefulness, initiative,
efficiency, and devotion to duty. By the
successful execution of devastating bombing attacks on enemy
airdromes, supply lines, troops, and
installations in which were encountered intensive anti-aircraft
fire and repeated attacks by enemy
fighter planes, numbers of which were destroyed, this organization
contributed directly to the
destruction of enemy forces and the expulsion of the Axis forces
from the continent of
meritorious performance of missions and devotion to duty
demonstrated by this organization in action
against the enemy are worthy of the highest degree of emulation.
By Command of Major General Brereton:
V.H. Strahm
Acting Chief of Staff
H. H. Wild,
On
entitled “Twenty-Four Hours of Hell” written by S/Sgt. James Q.
House and illustrated by Sgt. Gregory
C. Moore, describing the activities of the 340th Group on
valiantly. In their brief but active career as a medium
bombardment group of the Ninth Air Force they
established an enviable record. It is a record of long and arduous
missions; of operations under
pioneering difficulties in the early part of their existence. It
is a record not unattended by misfortune,
including the loss of a gallant commander in action over
“They began independent operations as the 340th Group
precipitately in the midst of a desert and
in the midst of a campaign with begged, borrowed, and improvised
equipment. Early struggles and
misfortunes undoubtedly did much to create the fine esprit d'corps
which is so marked in this Group.
Their career as an independent group in the Ninth from April 19 to
the fall of
active period in the history of the air force. It is an outfit of
which any commanding general may well
be proud.
“No fairly reported story of this group could lack for interest.
Theirs is a record which needs no
embellishment. I heartily commend their good works and endorse any
written account of them.
Signed Lewis F. Brereton TOP
487th Squadron Album of
Capt. Chas. Cook
340th Bomb Group
Catania Sicily 1943 VIDEO (Transcribed from National
Archives film; 52 mb)
Unedited
version with no scenes cut
September 1943
[Transcriber's note: Some entries are truncated. Please see the
original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Lt. Clifford Swearingen, 487th BS.
No mission today. There is a general feeling that the invasion is
about to start. Where? Yesterday's
move from the revetments to the Squadron area relieved us
somewhat. Living right out on the airfield
is not quieting to the nerves. Two “air raids” kept us jumping.
News from home says a sign in a
restaurant comments: “Don't argue with the help—we've got plenty
of customers.”
woke up. It's been rather hard hit, but only in spots. Some of the
damage must have been done by the
340th Group, but a lot of it appears to have been done by
artillery or naval guns. The barber shops are
functioning, and a few gelati shops, but little else. The streets
are being cleared and sewers repaired.
Three good men turned up today. Sgt. Markow, Pfc Dugas, and Pfc
Mylott, who were left in the
hospital back at Kabrit, (oops, mistake). They went to radio
school and evidently the thrills of
had distracted them sufficiently that they didn't miss us.
2nd
Mission today to some headquarters in the toe of
target 0720. Good pattern over target area. Only casualty was one
hole in one plane. The Squadron
area is pleasant enough. Part of the tent area is in an old tomato
patch, where the rotten tomatoes
attract flies and smell to high heaven. Excitement in the
afternoon around mess time. 4 ME 109's
attacked
from a pursuing Spitfire. A barrage balloon was knocked down. Al
Schacht, baseball comedian, was at
the Air Force Theater in
show, in spite of being in Italian. As Malcolm White says:
“Vulgarity must be universal.” Had two
missions today, the second taking off at 1255 to bomb Crotone L/G.
The L/G was covered with cloud,
so the formation bombed the alternate target at Monasterace
Marino. There were 4 direct hits on the
tracks. There was no opposition and all planes returned safely.
Lt. Sweetser Linthicum and T/Sgt.
Goulding returned from the hospital today.
3rd
a different target. 1st box probably hit Camigliatello L/G #2 at
right angles to runway, bombs falling
half way across runway. 2nd box probably hit Camigliatello L/G at
western part of field. The field was
overshot with but 20 percent hits on field. The impermanent nature
of the L/G/s prevented accurate
observations of the results. Even in later photographs, it was
difficult to tell which were L/G's. The
evidently were abandoned, for only one damaged plane could be seen
in the photos. This morning the
invasion of
Officer last night at 1815 hours. The Americans evidently are not
participating in the show, and
everyone wonders what they are going to do next. 1st Sgt. Parkins
left for the hospital today. Sgt. Milo
Kubat will take over in his absence.
4th
The 340th Group is not to participate in this part of the
invasion. No raids today, and we have a stand
down. “Ship Ahoy” with Eleanor Powell showed at the Air Force
Theater in town. New additions to
the Squadron were 2nd Lts. William R. Badgett, pilot' Charles H.
Chandler, co-pilot, and Melvin L.
Miles, bombardier. They are from
hospital. He's been sick since Comiso. Some mental disturbances
might be troubling him, as well as a
weak stomach.
5th
Stand down today. The show in town was Deanna Durbin in “The
Amazing Mrs. Halliday.” AMGOT
is on the ball. A
name and subtitles. Catanians have been waiting for years for US
shows, and seem to be flocking to
them.
6th
Stand down again today. Show at the hangar was “Syncopation” with
Jackie Cooper and Bonita
Granville. An oldie, and not very good. New additions today were
2nd Lts. Farly, Duthie, and F/O
7th
Target for today was the marshaling yards at
throughout the yards. Fires were observed burning generally in the
area. 1st box was believed to have
hit a spur south of the main target area. This was accurate
reporting, a characteristic of 487th crews.
The photos revealed a pattern across the south end of the yards,
lying across the station and sheds. The
other box cut the narrow gage track and might have hit the station
where transfer was made from
narrow to standard gage. Three ships were slightly damaged by ack-ack.
Our old friend, Leon Errol, in
“Hurry, Charlie, Hurry” showed at the hangar. T/Sgt. Goulding and
Cpl McBride returned from the
hospital.
8th TOP
Stand down today. But after the evening meal, the
which was to occur next morning. The 340th would definightly be in
on this. Captain Meriwether
synchronized with the
cheering. Sgt. Balonis went to the hospital.
9th
Night missions started early this morning, and started with
tragedy. Take off was at 0230, and the
target was
end of the runway, ran into other obstacles, crashed. The plane
was destroyed, although the 1000
bombs did not explode. The co-pilot, Lt. Charles H. Chandler, on
his first mission, was miraculously
saved. He was thrown clear of the plane, and “ran like hell,
because I thought those bombs were going
off.” He was discovered by the medics some distance from the
plane, and could walk and talk. After
about 3 days in all the Squadron, his brief history with us ended
when he was taken to the hospital. All
other members of the crew were killed. They were Lt. Bell, Pilot;
Lt. Orlando Loera, bombardier; Sgt.
Edward Reilly, radio-gunner; and S/Sgt. Spencer O. Hickman, top
turret gunner. All were highly
regarded in the Squadron. Lt. Bell had just volunteered for a
second “tour” of fifty missions. Lt. Loera
was one of the best bombardiers. Sgt. Reily was considered a swell
fellow. And Spencer O. Hickman
was looked upon as a sort of father. He, in fact, had two sons in
the service. Funeral services were
held at the chapel in the afternoon, Chaplain Cooper conducted.
Lt. Bell's ship was the first to take-off.
It was an ordeal for the rest of the formation to take off right
over the flaming plane. Without the aid of
the moon, they went on to
mission. Target was Grazzanise L/G #1, and all bombs were dropped
in the area of the incendiaries.
(night mission). To complete the tragic day, 2 planes did not
return from this mission: Lt. Willhite's and
Lt. Harley Anderson's.
10th
In the wee hours of the morning news came that Lt. Willhite's
plane had landed at an emergency
landing ground at Casbile. Everyone was safe. No mission today.
The Enlisted Men's “rest home”
began functioning today. 20 men went in on two day passes. 2nd
Lts. Davis and Evans were attached
for rations and quarters. Cpl. Kwolek went to the hospital.
11th
Target today was the highway intersection at Corleto, and takeoff
was at 1605 hours. First box reported
directed hits on the road south of the intersection. The second
box reported 90% hits on intersection
making roads south, north, and northwest impassable. Photos showed
the first box hit where they
reported, but photo cover was not complete on the second box. Lt.
Linthicum returned from the
hospital.
12th
Today a raid sprang up in a hurry in the afternoon – with only
about 10 minutes for squadron briefing.
But the mission was the squadron's second over
mountains. Primary target was again motor transport on the roads
south of the town, with the town
itself as alternative target. No M/T were seen, and the town
itself was difficult to find. 488th Squadron
returned to base with bombs. Although they were leaders of the
formation, our squadron did not follow
them, but milled around in search of the town. There was no
opposition, so they flew low, bombing at
about 7800 feet, or about 5000 feet above the town. Both boxes
landed squarely in the town, blasting
the hell out of it. The object was to block the roads, and must
have been achieved. The squadron was
cheered by the war news.
parts of
close to Maritopol. 4 battleships, 6 destroyers, and 7 cruisers
had put into
fleet surrendering. In the squadron, Lt. Sweetser Linthicum has
now seemed to have fully recovered
from his attack of malaria and First Sergeant Parkins has already
returned to his job after having the
same disease. It certainly did not affect his booming voice. All
enlisted men enjoying their “rest
home” in
food and wine, but no women. And nothing doing in town. Lt.
Anderson's plane was still missing from
the night raid over Grazzanise L/G in the early morning hours of
September 9th, date of the second
landing in
Morrrison and Seay became Sergeants, and a whole slough of Pfc's
made Corporal. Among the latter
were Doyle, Ellman, Flynn, Graffius, Grupp, Haddock, Incarbone,
Gross, Jenkins, Lozano, Pedersen,
Porter, Reuter, and Sobanski.
13th
Big event of the day was the return of the crew lost after Sept.
9th night raid on Grazzanise L/G. the
crew, lost on the return, prepared calmly to bail out over an
unknown island when their gas supply
began to run low. “Moose” Sather, bombardier, landed on the
ground, the others in the water. Sgt.
Schwartz, radioman, was in the water three to four hours, suffered
from extreme nausea and a deep
feeling that he as about to die, was pucked up by a fishing boat.
He directed them to Sgt. Kiskiel, also
in the water. Lt. Egbert, co-pilot, swam for eight hours before a
motor boat rescued him. Lt. Harley
Anderson, the pilot, was dead when discovered, later in the
afternoon. The island on which they found
themselves was Lampedusa. In a graveyard there, Lt. Anderson was
buried with military honors by the
Royal Air force garrison. The 487th Squadron celebrated its first
anniversary with short speeches, a
good supper of hamburgers, and a girly show. With the squadron
assembled on benches outside of the
mess hall, Capt. Parsons spoke briefly of the past year, what
changes had occurred and what progress
had been made, and then described this period as “a seventh inning
stretch,” after which, with renewed
energy, we would finish up the old ball game. He hoped on our next
anniversary we would be tossing
hot water bottles out of an American Legion hotel window in
revue preceded the squadron at the hamburgers, displaying considerable
vigor at the table. they seemed
to enjoy the real honest-to-God meat, the fine white-flour buns,
and the molasses cookies, which they
stuffed into their enormous handbags. Their show, staged at one of
the hangars, was entertaining.
Some did not attend because a night mission was in the air. target
for tonight was cross roads just west
of the ancient ruins of
Herman Goering Panzer Division forming around
few minutes before
and two reported near misses to the South – misses which might
have been in another crossroads. Lt.
Garrett mistook the
ack-ack, attacked a road junction at the north base of Vesuvius.
The crew noted a terrific explosion.
On the return he felt briefly that he was lost and greeted land
with this comment, “Mother Earth, how
GLAD I am to see you!” The first surrender to the Group occurred
in the afternoon when an Italian
Savoia Marchetti 79 bomber came into the field scattering white
flares like rice at a wedding. A
Captain, two lieutenants, and two enlisted men had seen the
Germans coming, hopped into a cold plane
and got away with a towel and toothbrush. News of was on other
fronts continued to be good.
Salamaua was taken—The Russians came within a few miles of
came into
successful pressure, but our plans ware already formulating to
give them hell on the morrow. New
additions to the Squadron today were 2nd Lt. Clyde H. Knapp, Jr.,
co-pilot, S/Sgt. Jack L. Olson, Jr;
S/Sgt. Jack L. Parks; and Sgt. Edward F. Casey.
14th
Another Italian airplane landed on the field today – a
three-motored transport with a number of
passengers. A frequent comment has been that neat appearance of the
Italian officer personnel. A
mission took off today shortly after
the
Allied use of the airfield at Monte Corvino, which as under
artillery fire. Today we were told that the
town was to be attacked by four Groups of B-25/s, four groups of
heavys and two groups of B-26's, and
that the fighter escort would also carry bombs and salvo over the
target. That meant plenty of hell was
to be handed out. Our squadron, with the 488th, dropped their
bombs with good results and returned
without casualty. F/O McLaughlin described it as a successful
“milk run.”
of
time of it, but were striking back strongly. C-47's in formation
flew over last night, evidently loaded
with paratroopers. Lae, in Southwest Pacific, was also catching
it. Our
change in two months and everyone is annoyed because it is being
changed so much. The mail has
been slowed up somewhat. Letters of August 24 are just betting
here, and normally it takes about two
weeks. Packages now get here in tow months, however, and they are
coming in well and in good
condition. One man in the Group has 50 missions. All the combat
crews are sweating out what's going
to happen to him. His name is Marsh. Word has been received from
Lt. Cunningham, who was with
Sgt. Sherbourne as bombardier when their plane crashed into the
sea after a raid on Pantelleria on May
30th. Others in the plane were Lt. McCabe, Sgt.
Bernstein, who was drowned and went down with the plane. Lt.
Cunningham writes that the is in the
States, and that his leg is paralyzed. He will not be able to use
it for a year. A new member of the
Squadron is 2nd Lt. Floyd E. Hauser, pilot.
15th TOP
T/Sgt. Edward S. Johnson and Sgt. Elinoff may be seen around camp
again. They returned yesterday
from a Tunisian hospital, where Sgt. Johnson was being treated for
arthritis and Elinoff a bad stomach.
487th Squadron had twelve planes over the Italian town of
beating from every group in this area. Pictures reveal our bombs
landed square in the town, which is
east of Battipaglia about three or four miles, and is a scene of
heavy fighting. Our crews reported
artillery duels South and East of the town. News came in slowly.
The bomb line of the 5th Army in the
the two armies have met, but the bomb lines of the English have heretofore
been not very far in front of
the forward patrols. Catanians are reading today that Bryansk
Conquistada.” They read avidly,
walking down the streets with their heads deep in their papers.
Watching the course of the war.
Evidently they don't think that it is coming back this way soon
because the town is filling up, and
rubble is being cleared away. The Officers Club was gay tonight
with the pop of “champagne” corks.
The wine is not champagne but Spumante, bottled in
night we have real champagne—black market stuff at $6 a bottle.
Lts. Garrett and Mayer were a bit
tight this evening and the former were barking (Section 8?) at the
Eytie waiters. Lt. Hollis aimed a
cork at Col. Tokas, but his feet turned cold. Captain Meriwether
confined himself to ice cream (gelati
to you) with meringue. The laundry has been out for two weeks.
Otto Stellato took it to Catnia, got no
results, and took it all the way to Comiso. There are a number of dirty soldiers hereabouts.
16th
The show tonight at the hangar was “Powers Model” with George
Murphy and Anne Shirley. Benny
Goodman played and Dennis Day sang as well as the none-too-good
amplifying system would let them.
They seemed undisturbed that planes were taxiing about outside,
announcements were being made
(487th Ordnance had to report outside of the hangar for some
reason) and general confusion was
reigning. Two bulbs burned out and there was a short intermission
while someone went to get another.
“Fats” Waller filled in on a scratchy record with “I've got my
love to keep me warm,” a favorite with
the 340th Special Services. The mission today took off at
considerable effect. There was some ack-ack, inaccurate to the
rear. Captain Parsons was complaining
of the GI's, but he was seen last night at the Officers Club with
a very attractive sister from a British
hospital. The Enlisted Men's Club now have a very novel
“entertainer” in the person of a girl named
Betty from the States. She is of Mexican descent, spent a number
of years in the States, and left there
in 1940. Her bold vocabulary (profane) seems to be her most
astonishing accomplishment, although
she evidently has others. The Russians announced the capture of
Novorrosisk. The 8th Army is only 18
miles from the attacking 5th Army. Australians and Americans are
near Lae. Combat crews are
sweating out what will happen when they finish their 50 missions.
There is a new rumor that they will
go for a short “rest” (not in the
administrative officers in rear echelons. Announcement was made
today that the Isle of Capri was
ours. Hope we spend the winter there. How time files. There was a
bright young Pfc at Stoneman
who suddenly popped up at Sfax as a Sergeant. Then somewhere along
the line he became a Staff
Sergeant and now today he is Tech. Sergeant Robert B. Driscoll.
Tempus fugit.
17th
Today was a big day in these here parts. Jack Benny and company
came to town. Rumors of his
coming were rampant back in August, but there had also been rumors
of Bob Hope and other, so no one
put much stock in them. Then last night, the engagement was
actually announced. He was to appear at
for the night, but no target or take-off time named, kept a number
of combat crews in camp. They can
see him at Lentini, tomorrow night. Benny's troupe contained four
members: Larry Adler, Winni Shaw,
and pianist, Jack Snyder. They put on a swell show to a packed
house (no Limeys). It was pleasant to
see a smooth, professional show again. Wini Shaw sang will, did a
nice number with an embarrassed
Sergeant whom she had tricked onto the Stage. Larry Adler's
harmonica numbers were swell. And
Benny's jokes rolled smoothly off the old ducks back. Sample: “A
wonderful trip over. It's wonderful
to have breakfast in Cairo, lunch in Tripoli and the GI's in
Catania.” Target for tonight was again the
road-railroad junction west of
difficulty), found the target well lighted by incendiaries. “Just
like the pictures, only clearer,” said
Bombardier R. N. Peterson. At least 9 planes must have hit “right
on the button.” The other may have
found the target, although the fact that he was the only one to
report ack-ack leads to the feeling that he
must have got off a little to the North. There is also the
possibility that he was mistaken. All planes
returned without mishap. Reports state that a tremendous tonnage
of bombs has been dropped on the
relatively small area around
84 bombs were dropped on each square mile of territory. Pvt. Paul
Pitonyak was back on flying status
today after three months. He'll be flying again within a few days.
18th
Today we had steaks for dinner – real steaks. No telling where
they came from, but they were good.
We also had real American cow butter. Mess hall has been serving a
sort of cheese spread, but never
any real butter until now. Wouldn't it be good on crisp toast? No
mission today. Stand down all day
long. the combat crews are dejected by the news that they probably
won't get to go home after fifty
missions. Reason, says the Colonel, is a lack of replacements for
the 12th Air Force. Crews will
henceforth get 7 days leave after 20 missions, 7 days after 35
missions, and extended leave after 50
missions, but in a rest camp over here. News came through today
that Lts. Sherbourne and McCabe
were awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received when they landed
in the
Sherbourne had previously been awarded the
A number of men went over. On the international front, the town of
captured by the Americans and Australians. Germans were reported
to be retreating in the
Russians are going great guns.
19th
No mission today, stand down all day and night. Most took
advantage of the day of rest and rushed off
to
seven or eight miles from
trimmings. They ate and digested and drank for hours. Vermouth
flowed freely. Lts.
Hague reeled and rocked. Lt. Jackman and F/O Griffiths broke their
records for sobriety and staggered
into camp in a gay mood. The spaghetti was wonderful, they said. A
story about T/Sgt. Joe Buller
which took place in Sfax comes to mind now. It seems that Joe made
a fireplace out of some bricks,
that he found around the area. When he made a fire, his bricks
burned. Somewhat later, a bunch of
Limeys came to a screeching halt in front of the orderly room,
announced feverishly that they were
searching for some blocks of high explosive left in the
neighborhood. Internationally, things are still
bright. In this theater Battipaglia fell to the Allies. This is
the town that received the full weight of the
12th Air Force last Wednesday. The show at the hangar was
“Bachelor Mother” with Ginger Rogers and
a very appealing baby. On Saturday the Jewish men in camp went
into
20th TOP
Sgt. Carl Serio has recently returned from a visit with relatives in
a Sicilian village – S. Stefano di
something. He reported being received with great joy and
excitement. The relatives were eager to hear
news from their people in the Unightd States, with whom they had
not corresponded in several years
because of war conditions.
change, considerable flak was encountered ( of course, at supper
there was a lot of argument as to
whether there was “a lot” or just “some.” F/O J.C. Anderson took
the later view arguing that he “hadn't
even received a hole.”) Several planes were holed, including the
one in which Lt. Gellman was riding
as bombardier. He had little comment to make. Sgt. Blume came back
with a piece of flak in his
pocket. It had come through the wall, bounced off the other side.
Only damage was to the filter on his
camera. He also had little comment. Fried spam for supper tonight.
The show at the hangar was
“
and the airplane sequences a trifle ridiculous. Hershey Company
has at last come through with our first
taste of American chocolate since we've been on this side. PX
rations (free) were handed out, and
included one bar of Hershey's Tropical Chocolate. The cigarettes
were
hereabouts. The feeling is that
not send the latter. No official answer has been given, but is
could be this: that a wide eyed
quartermaster buys cigarettes on the basis of the amount and kind
bought by these men when they were
civilians in the Unightd States. But when they get over here,
people who bought cheaper brands at home
prefer the higher priced brands when they are here. Either because
we are “Up front” (in comparison to
headquarters echelons) or because we're “in the rear” (in
comparison to forward infantry patrols), we
find ourselves helping the Quartermaster get rid of a bunch of
unwanted fags. Pfc. Lozano returned
from his two day stay in town, reported that he had never enjoyed
two days so much before, He
visited all sorts of Cathedrals and things. Cpl. Nelson was on
guard last night. The “Soldier” was right
in there on the ball. The bridge on the road between the Squadron
area and the “line” has been
repaired. Engineers who fixed it spent most of their time pushing
overloaded jackasses out of the
rough detour.
21st
A/A to the rear of the formation. Crews reported 80% hits. They
also reported a sort of merry-goround
effect when each box went over the target twice, one box coming in
the second time from the
North and the other coming in from the South. Chicken for lunch
today. Mighty fine. It was canned
chicken from the States, the first of its kind we've had since
being overseas. We've heard how the
Army's been buying a bunch of chickens for the boys overseas, but
until now it's been only a rumor.
The Quartermaster is definightly getting on the ball. Our own
cooks are becoming more eager. The hot
cakes are improving – the bacon is better – coffee tastes more
like coffee – and in fact everything is a
little better. Better even, in many ways, than Walterboro. A
banana would be a wonderful thing to
have. We haven't seen one in months. Lt. Sherbourne says he'd
rather see a banana than his wife, but
hastily adds that she mustn't be told. 8th Army news today carries
a feature about the occupation of
Cossensa. “We nosed along cautiously once again and in the
distance saw a mass of soldiers of
unknown nationality. When they saw us they crept into the woods.
We thought this very suspicious
but on getting closer we found they were Italians who thought we
were Germans. The reception they
gave us when we told them we were English could only have been
exceeded had we been able to tell
them we were Americans. They flung their caps in the air, and
yelled, “Comarados.” But they still
wanted to know when the Americans were coming.” Lt. Fonda, whose
ship was sost after the July 15th
raid on
Chance was killed; all others survived. Today we lost Sgt. Max
Johnson to the 489th, sent there to jack
things up for that squadron. New addition: Pvt. Arthur D. Rice, in
hospital. F/O Wver went to the
hospital, and the following tripped off to a rest camp for seven
days: Lts. Hague, Sather, Egbert,
Griffiths, and Sgt. Goulding, Mancini, Schwartz, Kiszkiel, and
Zona. Cpl. Boor made Sergeant but we
haven't seen any cigars yet.
22nd
Target today the pinpoint at N5231379 - railroad and road
crossings near Nocera. The boys reported
doing rather well. 10 bombs were considered hits, and the others
near misses. Some flak was reported.
Gavin got hit in the head, but had his helmet on. He swears that
the he magnetizes that stuff. Everyone
will wear helmets tomorrow. The show tonight was "Lady in a
Jam" with Irene Dunne and Patrick
Knowles. Old stuff, but damned nice comedy. General comment was
that she definightly needed a
section 8. Cherry pie for supper tonight. The crust was
dee-wonderful, and there was plenty of
cherries. Mess hall is very much on the ball. Everything's OK on
the fighting fronts. Funny names are
being captured right and left. Corporal Hurley has originated a
sheet for the bulletin board called "One
year ago today." It is attracting considerable attention.
Master Sergeant Lynch and others were being
authorized to taxi aircraft, even though we didn't have any
aircraft. Thats confidence for you. Local
inhabitants are selling peaches these days. 8 to 10 for a
"shee--leeng." Today the 487th officially lost
some old landmarks. The following then, who have been absent in
one place or another for some time,
were dropped from the organization:
First Lieutenant Edward J. Cunningham: while the squadron of this
holding Memorial Day Services at
the graves of Major Whittington and others in the Sfax cemetery on
May 30th, Lieutenant Cunningham
was toggling bombs over Pantelleria. The plane was lagging behind
the formation because of
mechanical difficulty, but the plane went over the target, got hit.
It went into the water between
Pantelleria and
returned from the hospital, with Sergeant
the ship. Lieutenant Cunningham did not return from the hospital,
but was sent to the States.
Lieutenant Robert F. Seymour: He was the bombsight maintenance man
who was doomed to be a
Second Looie for the duration. Then all that once he got a chance,
as the Armament Officer replacing
the officer left in the
hospital.
PFC Stanley Siok: 'Little Schuck', the squadron darling, he was
finally sent away when the saw too
many pretty birds on the birdless deserts of
Sgt. Kaszyski: One of the hardest workers and most conscientious
men in the Squadron.
1st. Lt. Ross A. Brophy: He went to the hospital in Kabrit and
never caught up with us.
23rd
Orders have come through awarding Sgt. Goulding the Silver Star.
He bailed out of Captain Flack's
ship over the Messina Straits,, landed on the tip, spotted a
machine gun nest, came back with
infantrymen to capture them. From the way he tells it, he had lots
of fun. There was no mission today
– stand down day and night. Rumor already has it that we are going
to move to
our present bombline. Capturing the field, repair of damage,
clearing of mines should take perhaps
three weeks, so we should be here at least two weeks more.
bets are laid on it. Ordnance section visited
named “Vivian” whom they promptly put on a leash because she
chased the little boy dogs around.
One unnamed man in the squadron visited in
in the background. He was somewhat embarrassed. The wife told him
in Italian that there was a
shortage of milk from one bosom. Thinking he did not understand,
she proceeded to show him by
demonstration. Show last night was the “Meanest Man in the World.”
Not bad. Jack Benny had black
hair for a change. New additions: Pilot B. R. Langlois, 2nd Lt.;
S/Sgt. H. A. Pinneo.
24th
countryside. The boys reported that the 489th had bombed the top
of a hill, that the 489th planes had
slipped underneath them just as the 487th was about to bomb, that
the 487th had hit the town proper, the
northern section of town, and the road leading out of the town. No
flak was encountered. This after
Group Intelligence had told them to expect a lot, a bit of warning
which set them on edge and made the
mission more unpleasant. Show last night was “Million Dollar Baby”
with
line today moved up to
well.
The Sicilian carts are up all night. They have a peculiar crackle
as they roll over their torn up roads.
Sounds like the distant pop-pop-pop of pumps in an oil field.
Rather lonesome late at night. Everyone
has been sending home medals lately. Sgts. Snaper and Walsh found
a sack of medals in the Enlisted
Men's Club downtown, former headquarters of the Fascist Union for
Larger Families. They are struck
in great quantity from some cheap alloy, have green and blue
ribbons with tiny silver bows pinned to
the ribbon. the medals are given to mothers and each little bow
represents a child. There are also
diplomas or certificates. And there are small diamond shaped pins
“for trying.” They are stacked in a
corner of the orderly room and are available for everyone.
25th TOP
or coming. Crews reported excellent patterns by both boxes in
target area. Both roads were hit by
bombs, and several small explosions were noted in the target area.
Chief gripe in the squadron these
days is guard duty. There are two planes per guard and sometimes
three. The men feel that a roving
guard of four or five men would be sufficient for all the planes.
They feel that we're only protecting
our tools from the sticky hands of other squadrons. Chief gripe
among combat crews (who don't
usually gripe as much as ground men) is the fact that they probably
won't get to go home after fifty
missions. Col. Tokaz has told them there will be only 100
replacements for the entire 12th Air Force in
the coming four months. From the 488th comes a poem, reprinted in
the Argus, and put in here to fill
space:
We're war weary boys of the 488th;
The food we have is the poorest we've ate;
Our planes are worn out, one's nerves are all shot,
At 50 we go on cause we cannot stop.
On the darkest of nights, without any lights,
We take off on runways with rest camp in sight.
If ack-ack don't get us and the night fighters miss,
Surely we'll get home, if we live through all this.
How was the join up? How was the climb?
The take-off was O.K. but wasn't on time.
There were three P-40's, one-half for each man;
We hit the target but does the Group give a dam?
Hell, No.
Mrs. Roosevelt is back home after a 26,000 mile tour of the war
fronts. Lt. Linthicum feels that the
President should put her in the family home so she will stay home.
On the international front, the
Germans announce the evacuation of
plains of
Sumner Wells as Under Secretary of State. Wells resigned. New
addition: 2nd Lt. Puckett. Dropped:
T/Sgt. Williams.
26th
No mission today; stand down all day and night. Chief diversion
was a trip by two carloads of men to
Via Grande, a little town in the hills at the base of
restaurant there, and frequent trips have been made since. The
roads up to the town are quite narrow,
and cluttered with wagon loads of furniture being brought out of
the hills to home again in
Evidently these poor people feel the war is over for them, and
life, love, and business can go on as
usual. Roads are lined with pleasant old buildings whose
architecture is surprisingly better than a
similar class of village buildings in the Unightd States. The
stonecutters and iron workers had good taste
and were plentiful enough that their works were inexpensive.
Doorways and windows have good lines.
Gateways (to orchards as well as to patios) are even elaborate.
Perhaps an explanation lies in the fact
that these poor-man's houses are erected by barons with money and
taste, and have since fallen to their
present occupants. The little churches or shrines show a great
deal of taste. And time ha made them
extremely picturesque. The restaurant was small but shuttered in –
there was little on the outside to
show that steaks and chicken and ice cream were obtainable within.
There were a number of soldiers
there, mostly officers, and some civilians. We waited a good while
until a table was set up for us, then
waited even longer while steak was being fried. After this bit of
meat went the way of all good
portions, we had another round, plus chicken. Then we ordered
fried eggs. Then ice cream. All was
washed down with light dry wine of considerable potency.
Conversation waxed strong, chiefly about
the
got polluted, had had Lt. Garrett (ditto) to pull a front tooth
with a pair of pliers. Truth came out late in
the afternoon. It had been a false bridge that was yanked out. Show
tonight was “Spring Time Parade”
with Diana Durbin. The Russians seem to have crossed the
the Pacific, has been surrounded. Some progress is being made by
the 8th and 5th Armies. New
additions: Pvt. M. L. Gammage and Pvt. K.C. Grantham. Transferred:
“The Greek,” Kalapanidas, the
baker, to the 486th.
27th
Time, for some reason, has been changed by an hour. We have set
our clocks back an hour; and
consequently everyone just gets up an hour earlier. No one seems really
to appreciate an extra hour of
sack time. Lt. Wilkerson is taking lessons in Italian in town.
From a woman, too. Lts. Peterson, D. R.
and
relative has loaned Lt. Peterson a jeep, and the two Don Juans may
be seen either before the mirror or
in their buggy. Our listening posts have not yet reported on their
activities. Stand down all day today.
After Deanna Durbin's movie, ENSA gave us a stage show. Only one
member of the cast displayed the
easy intimacy which American audiences like, are accustomed to,
and appreciate. The hectic pacing of
good American shows was also absent, so that the show gave an
impression of being staged in the
basement of the local church, with the girls of the congregation
in charge. The M.C. was typically
precious. His jokes were long and labored and not really worth the
length of time spent on them. To
audiences accustomed to crack coming so close to each other that
two good ones can hold up a weak
one in the middle, the humor was indeed mild. To most Americans
the most surprising thing was the
number of American songs played, and the fact that the audience of
Britishers participated with great
familiarity. They seem to know and like all our standard songs,
and many of the old ones. Evidently
they have a greater loyalty to songs that we, for they still like
such ancients as “Blue Heaven,” “Me and
My Shadow” and so forth. It seems odd to hear British tommies
singing “Is It True What They Say
About
Paul A. Wright.
28th
Lt Hubert D. Sumner, general handy man around the squadron for lo,
these many months, has received
word that he will be transferred tomorrow to an A-36 Group
someplace in
won request – he may have an opportunity for a Captaincy, and
he'll be doing a single job – statistical
work – for which he was trained. We'll probably miss him. There was
a stand-by (immediate) today.
About
Another five minutes and we got a stand down for the rest of the
day and night. A truck screamed out
to Via Grande for supper. The rainy season is about on us. It
hasn't rained yet, but its “in the air” and
there's been lightning. And there's a touch of autumn in the air.
Looks like OD weather before long.
Everyone talks of going home. “Home by Christmas is like “Remember
the
singing “White Christmas” since we got here, but there seems to be
more prospect now than every
before. The Russians are crossing the
is no natural defensive position west of the river. The Russians
have known this and that's why they've
wanted parts of
because the wheat crop of the
some strength left, they'll not be able to bargain at all. They
can't bargain without getting rid of Hitler,
so it should occur to the Army that that's the first step. The bet
is that he'll fall before Christmas.
minutes without receiving any opposition. F/O Jerry Over returned
from the hospital still sporting a
bandaged hand.
29th
No mission today - another stand down, day and night. Squadron
special service arranged a sight
seeing excursion in the afternoon. Two trucks of men and went up
to the town of
of lava and buried the town in 1928. Nothing could be seen except
the flow of lava, since the town was
still buried, so there was little that was startlingly
interesting. The lava was crumbly on top, like coke,
but the lower surfaces were like flint. It was all quite ugly. A little
Sicilian boy leading us about said
his father was an American for nine years. He didn't like Tedescos
(Germans). He showed us where an
English Spitfire had killed 50 Germans in an attack on a convoy.
He also pointed out where the
Germans had blown up some railroad and road bridges. A barber from
whom we asked directions
spoke very fluent Americanese, said he had been wanting to see the
Americans, said he was an
American citizen, immediately produced to citizenship papers and his
certificate as a fireman in New
our tour of the lava flow. After having gelati (ice cream, of
sorts), we headed back towards
stopping at a little fishing town, where we took small boats and
rode out to the Isle of Achea, or
poetically, la Isla de Ciclopi, meaning the isle of the Cyclops.
It was an enormous hunk of volcanic
rock with a smattering of the vegetation on top. Cracks and
crevices in the side gave it a precipitous,
dangerous look. A lover's leap appeared for the romantic element;
a little building with specimen
bottles provided scientific interest. But we were principally
interested in finding
Achilles had so much difficulty. The only cave we came across was
much too small for a bunch of men
and sheep. And we couldn't help but wonder where the sheep grazed
on that tiny, barren protuberance.
The tourists reached the camp late for supper. They ate and rushed
off to the cinema to see "How
Green was my Valley." Sgt. Hickey, who some time ago went up
to the headquarters to take over the
340th group publicity, has now been assigned to the headquarters
section.
to orient take all wasn't at 1045. One box made a pattern across
the pinpoint, the other box landed west
of the town, probably destroyed a road bridge, and might have hit
the railroad. Some of the boys
described
in to the south, the 487th formation took a left turn off the
target, and avoided most of the flak. But the
486th turned right, got into a lot of it. Two of their planes were
reported missing, but evidently turned
up later. One of our ships was holed according to Lieutenant
Rosenberg. All returned. Lieutenant
he's been wanting. Lieutenant White saw his 49th mission today,
has only one more to go. Lieutenant
Sumner set out early in the morning on a DC3 for his new group,
traveled to
Group stuck out on the field, could get no directions to his group,
found no communications or
transportation, decided to come home. When he got here he found
the orders had been rescinded
anyway. He'll be around for awhile.
On September 1st a forward was written by General Brereton as
preface for pamphlets entitled '24 Hours of Hell' written by
S/Sgt. James Q House and illustrated by
Sargent Gregory C. Moore, describing the activities of the 340th
group on
fell).
"The Avengers have fought valiantly. In their brief but
active career as a medium bombardment
group of the 9th Air Force as established an enviable record. It
is a record of long and arduous
missions; of operations under pioneering difficulties in the early
part of their existence. It is a record
not unattended by misfortune, including the loss of a gallant
commander in action over
began independent operations as the 340th precipitately in the
midst of a desert and in the midst of a
campaign with begged, borrowed, and improvised equipment. Early
struggles and the fortunes
undoubtedly did much to create the fine esprit d'corps which is so
marked in this group. Their career as
an independent group in the 9th from April 19 to the fall of
of the Air Force. It is an outfit of which any commanding general
may well be proud. No fairly
reported story of this group could lack for interest. Theirs is a
record which needs no embellishment. I
heartily commend their good works and endorse any written account
of them.”
Signed/ Lewis F. Brereton,
Major General, AAF
Commanding, 9th US Air Force.
Today was a payday, a great day in any country or clime. More
people are broke than at any other time
since we've been overseas, probably because
presents are being purchased. German radio says civilians in
From the rest camp in Algiers Lts. Sather and Egbert, Sgts.
Mancini, Schawartz, Kiszkiel, and Zona
have returned. Comment: Beaucoups of WAACS.
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
October 1943
[Transcriber's note: Some entries are truncated. Please see the
original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Lt. Clifford Swearingen, 487th BS.
two sections of the city. Photos showed the bombs narrowly missing
the bridge. All planes returned
safely.
This was the fiftieth mission for Lt. White and Sgt. Kinsinger,
first in our Squadron to reach that
number. Lt. White's only comment was “The first fifty are the
hardest.”
A new addition to the Squadron was Pvt. A.D. Rice, who transferred
today from the 489th. He likes the
men in the squadron, and thinks the 487th is the best squadron in
the Group. He's driving the
decontamination truck.
We had our first rain today – a sprinkle beginning at dusk and
continuing intermittently through the
night. The “rainy season” has begun, and operations for the next
few weeks may be held up
considerably. Crews returning yesterday from the
cloud. Raincoats are popping out in the squadron for the first
time since we were in the boat coming
over. Swede Lindstrom, the
he's been feeling punk for the past few days. No diagnosis yet of
his trouble. Lt. Wolkoff, with ta
couple of stiff legs also departed for the hospital. He feels that
scratching a mosquito bite caused an
infection.
probably saying, “Allo; nuts?”
S/Sgt. Harding and Pfc. Glenn Returned from the hospital.
2nd
The crews bounced out of here in a hurry yesterday morning, target
was a road junction west of
got over to group briefing, found the time over target had been
changed. They came back and waited
for an hour or so, and were briefed in the squadron. Just around
roll call, the mission was canceled, and
shortly there after the squadron was given a stand-down for the
remainder of the day.
Finchhaven fell to Australian troops today, the third Pacific
victory within a month. Other Australian
troops, going home from
ticker tape and all.
Rain fell today in great buckets. These desert tents (most of us
are just using the tips) don't hold back
the water either. There were some “sacks” right out under the
trees got a good soaking. Moose Sather
glumly commented, “I hope the sun shines tomorrow – and hot.” The
green camouflage paint rolled
down the sides of our tents like mascara from tearful female eyes.
The American Theater in town has reopened. Last night's show was
“Jailhouse Blues” very bad. The
British were showing “They all Kissed the Bride.” Somewhat better.
Communications section had a party today at the restaurant in Via
Grande. They had a swell time, and
all got wet coming home.
Promotions: S/Sgt. Preswich made Tech; Sgt. Morgan got a rocker;
and Pfc. Baker became a full
fledged non-com with two stripes.
3rd
Stand-down all day.
the show at the hangar was “The Great Waltz” with Louise Rainer,
Ferdinand Gravet, and Melitza
Korgeous. It was rather nice until the rain started. The roof of
the hangar is full of holes and gaps, and
keeps out very little rain. Many left to see to their personal
belongings at home. Some tried to leave,
got wet just looking for transportation.
General Arnold says activity in
some day.
Many new automobiles are springing up in the Squadron. Captain
Parsons has a good looking job
which probably will soon become a familiar sight around the British
hospital. Lt. Coyle could be seen
riding along close to the curb, blowing his horn at the natives.
Rumor has it that Lt. Egbert is getting the
Lt. Simenitzky is going to get hell if he doesn't stop buzzing his
little ME 109 over the S-2 tent.
Vignette: Lt. Donald G. Hammond, born some time ago in the general
area of
(
and Class A finance agent. Something over five feet in height,
wears gold rimmed specs. Says “coh”
for car, “pok” for park, and gripes because he doesn't have a coh
to pok in one of the local poks. A
dignified young man who does surprising things on impulse. Has
just discovered the delights of sex,
reminisces about same constantly and with deep running ferocity.
Sometimes known as “fart-sack.”
His voice grows husky when he thinks of
motto: “Suffer not little children to come unto thee.”
F/O Griffiths returned from rest leave in Efrain, found the place
very pleasant.
4th
Todays target was a road junction and railroad four miles north of
of the main roads used by the Germans in supplying their new line
on the
off at 1030, followed by 487th. “As we approached the mainland of
clouds and the navigator was quite worried about seeing the
target,” says Lt. Loysen; “we were
sweating it out. through a break in the clouds we spotted the
swung westward, keeping the Volturno in sight. When we neared the
target, the sky was black with
ack-ack bursting on both sides of us. They were really throwing it
up there – not so much before we
dropped our bombs as after. It was about the same as at Furnay. We
made our run, dropped our bombs,
with ack-ack bursting on all sides at the same time. Made a sharp
right turn off the target and started ot
make for the
be no way of going around it. For what seemed ages, we finally got
across the river, and started to take
inventory to see if everybody was still with us. the formation was
intact, and we proceeded to the base.
When we neared the base, one plane pulled out of the formation and
proceeded directly to the field.
We figured there must be someone wounded on board. As we came in
for a landing, we saw 7X parked
on the runway, and then we know for certain that someone had been
wounded. We later learned that
Sgt. Pinion had been wounded in the thumb and leg.”
Sgt. Pinion was hurt seriously, but not critically. Lt. Fonda and
Sgt. Peterson administered first aid in
the plane, giving him ten sulfa tablets and doing a swell job with
bandages and what-not.
Nine ships were holed.
S/Sgt. Hall was lead bombardier in the second box, and did a calm,
smooth job. Bombs landed within
a few yards of the actual road junction, and hit both roads. The
railroad was also believed to have been
damaged.
On the international scene,
occupied
Lt. King, Assistant Group S-2, went on the raid and was
interrogated in our squadron. This adds
another raid toward his first cluster to his Air Medal.
ENSA theater in town showed “Moon and Sixpence,” which is a rather
talky show. The South_Sea
ending is pleasantly decorated by a lush little beauty.
5th
Sgt. Dillingham reports having seen Lt. Chandler in the hospital,
and that he is doing well. He says the
are going to take the cast off his toe soon. The squadron medics
deserve a good deal of credit for their
swell care of Lt. Chandler. They got to him quickly, warded off
the effects of shock, which might have
proved a great deal more serious than the broken toe and burns
which he received in Lt. Bell's
crack-up.
One of the medics brings news that Swede Holmstrom is doing O.K.
The medic said he was suffering
from yellow jaundice, but Holmstrom writes that he is taking pills
for malaria.
Six of the new crews flew a practice mission today, bombing
reported flak was extremely heavy and that 98 ships had been
holed. Everyone returned safely, and Lt.
Gellman reported combat to be nothing.
There is considerable discussion of the new B-25 G's, and some few
men have seen them. They carry a
75 mm cannon in the nose, which is covered over. There is no
bombardier. Evidently the co-pilot does
the navigation. There is an 11 inch recoil. It's used for tank
busting. Rumor has it that one formation
went out th get a bunch of ships and got one fishing vessel.
The 321st Bomb Group, new in
come for us.
Lt. Peterson has added another jeep to the squadron's growing
supply of vehicles. (R.N. Peterson, not
D.R., who added one some time ago.)
No show at the hanger tonight. the officers club paid off four
dollars of the eight it collected from each
officer at Hergla.
We seem to have the moving bug again. Preparations are already
being made, but no time has been
given. The place is also rather indefinight.
The S-2 section now has transportation – the command car formerly
used by Supply. Captain
Meriwether has a chain and padlock looped around the steering
wheel. When he drives off, it sounds
like something clanking out of a Universal thrill picture.
The Cardinals and the Yankees played the first game of the World
Series in
winning 4 to 2. Very poor reception started about 1900 hours, and
inning by inning rather than play by
play results were given. The broadcast was very faint.
6th
Two 487th crews went with the 486th today, to attack a road
junction at pinpoint N-0694, north of
plane had trouble in one engine. Over the inner phone, he told Lt.
Sather “if” the right engine conks
out, salvo bombs immediately.” Lt. Sather did not hear the if, but
only “the right engine conked out,
salvo immediately.” He did, dropping the bombs in the sea. They
left the formation and came home
early. Lt. Garrett's ship went on. The Cardinals walloped the
Yanks to even the series at one game
apiece. Cardinals 4: Yankees 3. Batteries: Morton Cooper and
Walker Cooper; Erne Bonham and Bill
Dickey. This was Cooper's first victory over a team of American Leaguers
and just managed to stave
off a Yankee rally in the 9th which netted them 2 runs but 1 run
short of a tie.
The rain tonight was heavy, but it at least let us see a good
show, “Night Train to
film that would have been better if the sound track had functioned
better.
The A.L.O. spoke briefly at 1715 hours, had very little new to
impart. he spoke of the probable
difficulties of the allies in holding the seven
announcement that tomorrow's Group mission (including 12 ships
from the 487th) would be to
The target would be the L/G at Ioannina.
C-ration hash for supper tonight.
7th
The rains fell heavily last night and early morning, but the sun
was shining brightly at the
group briefing. Thirty six planes of the 340th took off, lead by
the 487th, at
up at
pretty angry over in that direction. They were all down in time
for lunch.
A lot of American nurses, one month overseas, bay be seen
hereabouts now. “They look stunning in
their brass buttons and new uniforms,” says Lt. Sherbourne. The
new uniforms look like a
uniform. Very bono, says Lt. Hammond. Lt. Loysen seems to be
checking out on the girls (and that
doesn't mean “to leave in the lurch.”)
The show in town was “Pardon my Sarong,” with Abbott and Costello.
The British laughed, evidently
advocating the slapstick highly.
F/O Griffiths advocates the rest camp in
golfing, tennis, best meals in this hemisphere. Lots of women in
the parks. Lt. Hague won't come
home.
Lt. Jackman is R.O.N.ing in
The Officers Club features champagne again after a dry spell.
News on the international front is scarce. The Russians are bogged
down in the rain.
The Yanks won the third game of the series 6 to 2.
The preparations for our moving have been postponed indefinightly.
Thumbnail: Lt. O'Neill, a
weight and height. Wanders around a good deal, looking for
something. Bounds upon people, twisting
their arms unmercifully. Crows with delight when they shout
“uncle” and struts over his victory.
Seemingly an agreeable cuss-seldom moans about life in the rough.
Had a chance in July to go on pass
to
“Hammering Hank.” On a night mission over Paterno, turned on both
landing lights over the target. Is
assistant crew chief on an ME 109. Is married, and for all we know
a true and faithful hubby. Must
check on this. Hobby: defusing red devils.
Vignette:
Lt. Clifford W. Swearingen, commonly known as Swearinger. Born?
Presumably yes, in that quaint
territory called
the squadron area and if he greets yo with “good morning” at
think nothing of it – we are all entitled to our idiosyncrasies.
He sometimes gambles sometimes drinks;
neither very well. He admits his sex life has been equal to that
of a hermit crab, but sneaks silently off
by himself for some mysterious purpose. He is quite a cynic on
marriage and believes there is no
future in it. His tent-mate is doing his best to convert him from
his warped state of mind but it is
doubtful if the war will last that long. For personal interviews
he may frequently be found “over
yonder” on his fart sack – his first love.
8th TOP
The sun was shining at this morning's briefing, but in the
Northeast, over the sea, the sky was
beginning to darken. Take-off was at 0940, and the primary target
was a road junction across the
Volturno, northwest of
The 487th made an attempt to go through the clouds hiding the
target from the East, then tried it from
the West. Simenitzky, who doesn't advocate flying around on a
limited supply of gas looking for a
target was a little worried. Finally, the search was given up and
the formation went for the alternate
target, a road bridge over the
on a West to East heading, could see the road, the bridge and the
stream until the bombs were dropped,
when all were obscured by cloud. Most of the crews felt the bombs
went slightly South of the road, the
pattern beginning with the stream and perhaps extending across the
L/G. One bombardier was certain
the bridge had been hit. Time of the attach was 1202 hours.
Lt. Warnock complains of the mice eating is candy, chewing up his
gum, and ripping the cellophane off
his cigarettes. There have been several complaints about snakes.
The lizards upset everyone until it
was learned that they eat flies.
The show at the hangar was “Gold Rush Maisie” with Ann Sothern. It
was a warm, friendly show
about a tough girl with a heart of gold. Maisie appeals to a great
number of men. Special Service has a
few good records, recently added to the collection. Some small
orchestra featuring a piano and an
accordion turns out a good recording of “Stardust” and “Solitude”
played as a medley. The old ones,
like “There will be other nights like this” are still good,
although the dust of
them until you can hardly hear the music.
A new system has been worked out on the line whereby men are
assigned to definight planes, and are
“indispensable.” This keeps them out of the reach of the Orderly Room
for details, and they are happy.
All the engineers live out on the line. By this arrangement, they
are all up early and there for
preflighting, a job which formerly was done sometimes by crew
chiefs alone, because the others were
up in the area for all formation.
Today's mission was the fiftieth for Lt. Brown, bombardier, and
S/Sgt. Hall, who had seven missions as
a gunner and 43 as a bombardier. Lt. Brown: “I don't know nothing.
I didn't see nothing.” Sgt. Hall:
“The first and the last are the hardest.”
Sgt. Birkley and others have moved into a barn out of the
rain....Sgt.
bottle of German beer for two bucks. It is reported that Serio is
so adept at Italian these days that he
talks it in his sleep....One man in the Squadron says his mother
outranks his brother. She's a
PFC....Yom Kippur is tomorrow.
Lt. Hague is back from rest camp at Efrain with a dog named
9th
No mission today....Photos of yesterday's mission show a great
deal of could. bombs in the 2nd box are
falling over the river and south of the place where the bridge
should be, so it is doubtful if they came
close to the bridge. Nothing can be told from the other
photos....At 1000 hours this morning newspaper
photographers took pictures of men in the Group from several
cities in the
in the 488th area, beside a wrecked enemy aircraft. Thirteen of
our men from
including S/Sgt. Futterer. Sgt. John Smith of
Meriwether stood beside those from
“Vino, Senora, and nuts.”....It used to be “home by Christmas,”
but it's changing gradually to “home by
Easter” - maybe. Men seem to be less homesick, however....S/Sgt.
Goodrich says he'd like to have a
jeep when the war is over. This seems to be a fairly common desire
– something to go riding around
the
luxuries used to be taken for granted, and there were great howls
when we didn't get big stocks when
we first came overseas. Now we look on them not as our inalienable
right but as chance good
fortune.....The amount of money being sent home in money orders is
dropping off. Could the Sicilians
be getting rich?.....Much of the money spent around here is going
for photographs. This is the first
opportunity we've had to get our pictures struck, and everybody's
taking advantage of it. Some of the
photos are a little too “prettied” up for American tastes, but
others, not so doctored, are very good.
Favorite shot seems to be the group photo, sometimes with wine
bottles and glasses, supplied by the
photographer. Pvt. Gross, T/Sgt. Gilles, and T/Sgt. Elliot don't
look particularly tanked up in
theirs.....Had chicken for lunch today. Not bad....Ordinance held
an inspection of firearms, with
alarming results. Two men had to buy new barrels....A camera club
is under way among some of the
men. the idea is to trade prints, and is a very good one,
considering the scarcity of negatives.....T/Sgt.
Buller stepped on a third rail while in
attacking
offensive begins tomorrow on the Volturno. In the Pacific, the
drive on Madang is progressing.
10th
Tragedy visited the squadron today – tragedy that was unnecessary
and avoidable. S/Sgt. Mackevich,
in the engineering section, was fatally wounded when an Italian
Baretta pistol held by Sgt. Floyd was
fired. An explanation of the tragedy as it circulates informally
among the men in th squadron was that
Sgt. Floyd had in his safekeeping an Italian pistol owned by a
combat crew member who had bought it
the night before and was at the time on a mission. That Sgt. Floyd
was unfamiliar with the pistol; that
he was demonstrating the “safety” which is found on the U.S. .45
pistol – that of placing the muzzle
against the resisting surface and pressing forward. Evidently,
from general talk, the clip was removed,
but a round remained in the chamber. The bullet passed through
Sgt. Floyd's hand and very nearly
through S/Sgt. Mackovich's body. Mackovich died within a few
minutes. His funeral will be held
tomorrow at 1000 hours....The target today was troop
concentrations and equipment North of Capua,
near the town of
Photo coverage showed the patterns within 600 yards of the given
pinpoint, which is not so bad in
anybody's bombing....The show at the hanger was a pleasant
surprise – a GI show with talent and an
infectious quality that won the audience. The 5 piece orchestra
worked nicely together – with the
trumpeter and the pianist showing real talent. A fellow mimicking
Bob Burns got a good hand, as did
the tap dancers. The show was mixed, colored and white. Notable by
their absence were ancient
jugglers, magicians, and fat precious Masters of
Ceremonies....Sgt. King's motorcycle caught fire near
the gasoline dump, burned to a crisp. His frequent comments at the
show led to the belief that he was
holding a wake for the departed machine....Lt. Sullivan,
bombardier, and Lt. Peterson, bombardier,
finished their fiftieth mission today. Results of their
celebration of the event are not yet
known....Permission has been granted by Col. Tokaz and Capt.
Bramble to make prints for the squadron
album. Sgt. Buller is busy at work on same....On the Russian
front,
have crossed the
victory. This is direct contradiction of former statements
attributed to him. But Flying Fortresses and
escort alone accounted for 102 aircraft (enemy) yesterday. Can
surrender without the aid of ground and naval forces?......The
Yanks won the 4th game of the series – 2
to 1....Pvt. Nagy has been transferred to 486th squadron.
11th
Shortly after the funeral was held today for Stg. Mackovich,
tragedy stalked the squadron again. Lts.
Hover, Pirnie, and Simenitzky went down to Comiso A/D to find a
tire for the latter's ME 109. While
there they discovered that all ME's on that field had been
grounded after a pilot had been killed a few
days before, that two men who owned these fighters were glad to
give them away. Lt. Hover, although
he was not very familiar with the plane, wanted to fly the ME. He
took off, evidently discovered he
could not get through the circle of cloud covering the hills, probably
came back to tell the other men to
wait for a more favorable day to fly the planes to
or was caught on something. It flipped over on its back. Lt. Hover
was taken away in an ambulance to
a hospital, and his death was announced late at night......In
spite of heavy rains, Sgt. Mackovich's
funeral was dignified ad impressive. Chaplain Cooper conducted
services at 1000 hours......Transition
night mission begin soon for the new pilots. Perhaps more night
missions....Officers who failed to have
their pistols inspected have been confined to the base until same
is done. Most rushed over to
Ordnance in today's downpour to get it done....Grillo has bought a
new radio for sixty
bucks..Bombardier Peterson, he of the finished missions, has been
sleeping in the ambulance to keep
out of the rain....Lt. Wolkoff's promotion, dated as of August 25,
has just come through....There are a
hell of a lot of biting flies in the shower bath. And that matting
doesn't keep out the cold wind....The
Enlisted Men's club in
doesn't hear much of him these days....The squadron area is not a
lovely sight when wet with rain.
Looks vaguely like a barnyard. All the men remind one of wet
chickens wandering aimlessly and
uncomfortable around in the water. Too damned depressing....A
frequently expressed opinion is that
when we get home it's going to be hard to say the right things in
polite society. We're too used to
cussin....Some men in the squadron feel that being stationed here
in
at
anywhere below the
“When we see shows it seems like we are back in the States, and
not way over her in
liked songs: “As Time Goes By,” and
“In My Arms.” Chorus to the latter:
“In my arms, in my arms;
Ain't I ever gonna have a girl in my arms”
In my arms, in my arms:
Ain't I gonna have a honey holding me tight?
You can keep you knittin and your purlin -
Gimme a girl in my arms tonight.”
No opinion on the song has been voiced by Albert J. DeLorge, who has
female acquaintances in
–
bucks, and the Lt. Rosengerg lost a tidy sum....Ack-ack opened up
in the South this afternoon. No
planes were seen. Nobody got excited....In Italy, the Volturno
offensive is soon to start....In battered
big bridgeheads across the
12th
The rain is playing hob with our activities. Filled-in bomb
craters are soft and treacherous. An old
R.A.F. Albemarle got a nose wheel in the soft mud, turned its tail
up in the air. Two DC's had a little
trouble. And our runways themselves are having trouble – They are
caving in where craters were filled
close by or on the tarmac....Orders have come for some of the
planes ot leave for our new field. Their
chief purpose will be to stake out a claim on the field and hold
it, so that some other Group won't come
in and take it. The field seems to be located at San Pancrazio,
about 20 to 30 miles south of
near
who have completed fifty missions, will leave in the morning. the
idea is for us to remain operational
here....Swede Holmstrom, a little yellow around the gills, has
returned from the hospital....”Strawberry
Blonde” was scheduled to show at the hangar tonight, bu twas
changed to “Yank on the
at the last minutes. We got over there, hung around for an hour
and forty-five minutes and finally left
without seeing anything. Trouble with the machine, so they
say....Captain Bugbee, Lt. White, and Lt.
Coyle, who have weekended in
O.D.'s for the officers. Maybe so....Handkerchiefs are the big
items being sent home as presents. Most
are made of parachute silk, and many are handpainted with Air
Force insignia, maps of
birds, etc. The are being put in letters....The cognac hereabouts
is bottled lightening....When
Tuff Stuff completed fifty mission with original engines, the crew
broke a bottle of champagne on her
nose wheel....Snow White II has completed 54 missions. Her crew
claims two ships and a Nazi plane
for her. They're all proud as punch.....Rains poured again
throughout the day. You can get in some
good sack time if your tent doesn't leak....Among our Characters:
S/Sgt. Allen P. Kosack. From
Duluth, Minnesota. Known as “Kosey.” Propensity for typewriters
and slit-trenches. Vocabulary
limited to, “When do we go home.” Can't stand cold weather, and
uses more blankets than anyone in
the squadron. His life is just one roster after another. Knows a
beautiful girl named Alice, whom he
married on a 7-day furlough. Took him three days to get there and
three to come back. Tall, wears
glasses, always smiles, in spite of working in the Orderly Room.
Always obliging and accommodating.
Doesn't smoke or drink....The battleship “Tripitz” has been hit
and put out of commission in Norwegian
waters by midget submarines. It is not clear whether it was sunk
but at least it can't be used. In Russia,
the situation is grave for the Germans. There is still a lull in
activity on the Volturno....This morning
two planes containing an honor guard composed of friends of Lt.
Hover went to Comiso A/D. The flag
draped coffin was placed in Captain Parson's ship and transported
to Ponte Olivo. In a large cemetery
there quiet but impressive funeral services were read by Capt.
V.C. Frank. The honor guard fired three
volley salute as the casket was lowered and Lt. Hover was laid to
rest....
13th
Six planes and the 488th mess finally got off for Italy, somewhat
later than the time set. The 488th is
now messing with us....Plans for our movement are definightly up
in the air. No shipping can be spared,
and there is doubt about our being able to make it in our
vehicles. There are no bridges over the many
rivers, all of which are roaring torrents by now. There is some
plan for our planes to operate with the
12th while the Ground tries to get to Italy....Our publicity is
coming out in the states. Clippings are
coming in to the boys....New addition: Gunner K.C. Grantham,
injured over Pantelleria, sent to a
hospital, and transferred to us. Says he: “Seems to be the best
outfit I have met since the old 71st back
in 1940-41. Boy it sure is hard to find a good outfit
nowadays.”....Back home there is an epidemic of
polio....surprise: no rain today....Impressario Otto Stellato and
friends in squadron supply got together
a show in Catania - “Sicilian Varieties” - advertised as
guaranteeing a strip tease. Performers were our
old friends whom we had seen before, plus a couple of kids who
sang, accompanied by a blind
violinist. The chorus was new, and the most hideous set of women
ever found on the wrong side of the
footlights. They were all sizes and all shapes, and all ugly. Climax
came when they argued with each
other over the routine. In the special bedroom scene the bra came
off but the gal began to fight before
her panties came fully down. One babe finally took everything off,
revealed a surprisingly
unhandsome body. Captain Meriwether received a sweet kiss from a
blonde singer who bounced down
into the audience. Comment: “It was so bad it was good.” Everyone
had a good time....Italy has
declared war on Germany.
14th
Six more planes started to leave for Italy but were called back
because the weather wasn't so favorable.
Plans are changing momentarily, and nothing is definight about the
move....Weather is cooler, and
sleeping is good. It's mighty easy to get in 10 or 11 hours of
good sack time....Eight months ago, on
February 14th, we go on the U.S. West Point in San Francisco
harbor and got ready to pull out....Some
of the men in the Engineering section found a Sicilian with some
Irish Whiskey which tasted pretty
good. The went on a little party to a restaurant where some piano
player knew a few American songs.
They reported a good time and much food....In Sicily, the American
soldier is impressed by the peculiar
local attitude toward sex, the picturesqueness of the island, and
the general poverty....The roads are
becoming more and more cluttered with carts. The country is
over-run with them....Some of the men
have some snappy looking rubber stamps for placing their address
in the upper left hand corner of their
envelopes. Complete with bomb....On the Russian front, the capture
of Zaparoche has been announced
as an important victory. There is fighting in Melitopol. The
allies announce that Southern Germany
will be bombed from Corsica and Sardinia. Over Western Germany, 60
Forts were knocked down, but
Germans lost 104 fighters. The B-29 is in production, and will see
service next year. It has two
motors, 50 cal MG's, and high speed and great range. Made by
Martin and North American.
15th TOP
Three planes and four crews of the 487th left this afternoon to
join the 12th Bomb Group for an
indefinight period. They will do night missions with the 12th, and
rumor has it that a mission was flown
tonight.....Plans for moving are still in the air, but definightly.....Returning
from Via Grande tonight, a
bomb trailer skidded on some rocks, was stopped by a building at
the side of the of the highway.
Webb, Pugh, Hammond, and Lester Brown were injured, not
seriously.....T/Sgt. Goulding returned
from rest camp outside Algiers, reported having a good time....Lt.
Wolkoff returned from hospital
looking well....Eight months ago at supper time the U.S.S. West
Point passed under the Golden Gate
and out into the Pacific and our Foreign Service Additional Pay
began....
THUMBNAIL: Sgt. James G. Johnson. From Birmingham, Alabama.
Birmingham Southern graduate
– wanted to be a doc like his pa. Never been out of his sack after
nine o'clock, but calls himself a light
sleeper. Known as “Be Sweet” Johnson. Loses everything – the only
man who didn't lose his “B” bag
on purpose. Punctual at meals. Argues with himself out loud – and
frequently argues himself into a
change of mind. The new one never seems to work any better.
Started to smoke a pipe – took him
fifteen minutes to light it – gave up the habit fifteen minutes
later because it gave him a headache.
Ambition: to go home and marry some Georgia peach. Present
occupation: wandering through the
war, and keeping Lewis Lloyd's morale up. “Gollee – I'm not going
to think about that anymore.”....
At Gerbini: The planes arrived in afternoon, tents were set up,
supper eaten. Night mission sweated
out, but a stand-down was announced. The show was “Girl Trouble,”
with Don Ameche. At a bingo
game later, where tea was served, Lt. Hague won a couple of
dollars.
16th
Pilots of the 487th operated a shuttle service between Sicily and
Italy, transporting as many men and as
much equipment as possible by air. The only unusual incident
occurred when Lt. Peterson was delayed
by having a wheel stuck in the mud, finally took off at five
o'clock, got to San Pancrazio well after
dark. When he shot a red flare, a flare path was lit for him, but
it went out before he could land. He
went on to Brindisi for the night.
At Gerbini: Pilots awoke at 0500 hours by sounding of horns for
prospective raid on Italy. Take-off
finally occurred at 0900 hours, and the target was Sparanise, a
small town North of Naples. Weather
was clear and the target was plainly visible. No ack-ack was
encountered. Results were good although
no photos were taken. Stand down for the rest of the day. Three
planes and 4 crews of the 487th took
part in the raid....Gerbini resembled Hergla – a barren waste....
17th
A majority of the Squardon personnel have reached Italy, coming by
B-25, DC-3 and Savoy Marchetti.
Captain Meriwether shepherded a jeep over in one of the transports
– the only means of transportation
now in the squadron....Confusion reigns. Consensus of opinion is
the no move was ever more
disorganized....The movie equipment, many tents, and most
transportation is coming by convoy, but
chairs and tables from Group mess were flown in. We have chairs
and tables galore already here, but
the other equipment will be a week in arriving....There are some
barracks here, but they are dilapidated
and absolutely filthy. They are being used indiscriminately until
Squadron areas can be marked out. A
great deal is hanging in mid-air because the 310th Group is also
trying to move to this field, and wants
us to leave....We are not operational – There is no gasoline and
there are no bombs....One plane of the
487th went with other planes of the Group to Gerbini to operate
with the 12th Group....Rumors float
around here in great abundance, probably because we are shut off
from sources of news. This points to
the value of a good S-2 section which disseminates enough real
news that rumors are quelled.
Recommendation: that all S-2 sections be furnished with a good
radio. At some point in this period of
confusion, several men in the Group with 50 missions have left for
home. But no one yet from the
487th. At Gerbini:
Intermittent rain all day. “Santa Fe Trail” showed in the evening. Walkoff,
McLaughlin,
and Rosengerg arrived.
On the Convoy: Convoy left Catania at 1100 hours and drove along
the coast North towards Messina.
Very mountainous. At 1600 hours came in sight of Italy across the
Strait. Country rather pretty, with
sheer cliffs dropping into the sea. Pulled into Messina at 1700
hours, gassed up, and bedded down for
th night. The place was a wreck from bombing. Rain fell.
18th
Most of the Squadron went visiting today. One truck load of men
hitchhiking to Lecce were surprised
when they passed the Kong of Italy and his retinue on the highway between
San Pancrazio and Lecce.
All saluted. The truck made a grand procession through the flag
decorated streets of several small
towns, receiving a great ovation from those who were awaiting the
king's arrival. The GI's were not in
parade dress – there were coveralls, khakis, and OD's – but no one
seemed to mind. It is hoped that th
eking did not object to having his royal thunder stolen. First
impression of Lecce (about 20 miles from
here) is that it is clean, that there are many attractive girls to
be had, that the population is reserved but
curious, that prices are high....Another plane joined those at
Gerbini....Lts. White, Brown, Peterson, and
Sullivan have received orders t go home. Everyone else is as
excited as they are....Lts. Sullivan and
Peterson are taking and must be enjoying an extended vacation
someplace and don't yet know the good
news. It is hoped that they will turn up from their gallivanting
in time for take-off for the U.S.....Rain
tonight caused the uncomfortable discovery that our barracks
leak....The chow line is extremely long
these days, what with only one mess hall for this crowd.
At Gerbini: Raid today – takeoff around noon. Weather was bad and
planes returned with their bombs.
Credit was given for the raid. Three planes and three crews of the
487th took part. Target: road junction
at Venafro.
On the convoy: Up at 0400 hours and prepared to leave. Rode down
to docks at Messina. Practically
every building was busted wide open. Pulled onto the barge at 0700
hours and landed on a beach
between Reggio and Villa S. Giovanni at Gallico, Italy. Proceeded
to a grouping area and reformed,
taking the North road along the West coast of Italy. Traveled
along the sea most of the way, seeing
evidences of bombing but very few wrecked vehicles. Thousands of
kids clamor for “cigaretta” or
“bis-Ket.” People were terribly poor – no pretty girls and only
three fair looking ones the whole way.
Through mountains and into valleys. Road good, with only a few
bomb craters. Railroad entirely
blown out. Bedded down in a nice grove of trees for the night.
19th
Another plane went to Gerbini, making six we have there....Capt.
Parsons says four new combat crews
have arrived in the Squadron....This is a dull period of inactivity
for us. Says one man: “If anyone asks
you, we're ready to leave this place.”....Cpl. Nelson advocates
Lecce....Sgt. Max Johnson got into an
argument with some Italian soldiers, had to have four stitches
taken in the side of his head. “It was
partly my fault,” He grinningly admits....Capt. Schreiner, Capt.
Bayless, and others had a swell time in
Lecce. Their food bill was $4.00 for eleven. Rumor has it that the
crews in Gerbini have made four
missions already, and the Lt. Howle has completed fifty missions.
the plane leaving today went to
relieve him....Lts. White and Brown tried to leave today, had to
wait to clear the post....The 489th mess
has been set up, relieving the congestion at the 488th mess
somewhat....
At Gerbini: Rogers, Hague, Fonda, Walkoff, and Griffiths now at
Gerbini. Briefing at 0800 for raid on
Frozionone, a town half way between Naples and Rome. Takeoff at
0915. Cloud coverage over target
was 9/10. Rogers, Over, and Loysen led the formation, did a fine
job of navigation. Alternate target
was selected (Terracina), and it could be seen through one hole in
the clouds. Only the 487th - 486th
formation hit the target. One formation from the 12th brought
their bombs back; the other wandered
around and dropped them someplace besides on the target....Some
planes had trouble with bomb racks
--- Rogers landed his plane with a hung bomb, being unable to get
rid of it. Sherbourne brought mail
and news that White, Sully, and others were leaving for the
U.S.....In the evening, and American stage
show presented music, singing and dancing.
On the Convoy: Started out at 0900 hours after swell sleeping and
continued on along the coast, going
up the most winding roads and around the sharpest curves. Road was
bad. No evidences of war.
People still unbelievably poor. 102 miles covered. Camped just
South of Belvedere and built a
campfire, as the mess truck had stopped at another place. More
rain.
20th TOP
Lts. White and Brown, S/Sgt. Hall, and S/Sgt. Kinsinger left for the
Unightd States....The 487th Squadron
area has been assigned, but is filled at present with Italians who
are slow on the move. The position of
the Italians as our “allies” complicates matters....Some Italian
officers in Lecce were buying pretty new
uniforms in contemplation of entering the war again....They are
very meticulous in matters of dress.
The civilians here have difficulty recognizing the Americans
because they appear in such varied
costume....Nelson took up the outgoing mail for the first time.
At Gerbini: Stand-down all day. Most of the boys went to Catania.
Henderson, D.R. Peterson, and
Lambert arrived. “Jailbird Blues” on at the movies.
On the convoy: Up a 0700 hours. Kids still begging food, saying
the Tedescos took it all away from
them. Some of the men visited Belvedere before looking up the mess
truck 15 miles east for
breakfast....At San Agate, girls were washing clothes in a
stream....No more movement today.
21st
487th area has been to some extent occupied. Any further activity
must await the arrival of the
convoy....The convoy of jeeps arrived today. Drivers said they had
passed the other convoy 300 miles
back, that it would take at least tow more days for them to reach
us. Several cars had to be repaired.
Preswich probably is still just outside the outskirts of
Catania....Italian civilians say they haven't had
any real coffee in five years, that an ersatz has been made from
everything from almonds to grape
seeds. They look forward to the arrival of food from America. They
say that the plenitude of food in
Sicily is caused by imports from America....The German club in our
area has a “Texas bar” decorated
with murals of cowpunchers, western belles, and house
pistols.....Talk has it that two B-25's of the
Tactical Air Force (meaning of the 12th or 340th) were shout down
near Naples, but might have bellylanded
in the Naples area. No other news. A B-25 is reported to have
crashed into Mt. Etna....Talk has
it also that our field is guarded by Eye-Tie A/A gunners, and that
Col. Tokaz has registered an
objection....Eye-ties know two towns in America and both of them
are Brooklyn....Sgt. Jones heard the
tail-end of the Camel Caravan program dedicated to the
“leaderless” 340th Bomb Group – the “best
medium Bombardment Group in the world.” We're due to get a bunch
of free Camels out of it. We
need 'em. Nobody in the Squadron has any....Crack going the
rounds: a Lt. knows everything and does
everything – a Major knows nothing and does everything. ....Berlin
“Sal” gave the world series results
and football scores the other night....A guy back home is known as
a “USO Soldier.”
At Gerbini: A scheduled mission was canceled at the last
minute....In the afternoon, Capt. Rogers
found a truck and organized a swimming party, plus a trip for
food. Via Grande was closed (because of
difficulties with the British authorities) and the fellows went to
Nicolosia.
On the Convoy: Left camp at 1000 hours. Beautiful country –
mountains and valleys....Travelled from
west coast over the mountains at the top of the toe of Italy to
the east coast over rough roads. Camped
at Trebassacre on the coast. Discovered an American citizen who
was caught over here in 1940 by the
war, who wanted to get back if possible....Mess truck supper was
lousy and some men scraped around
can cooked their own.
22nd
Capt. Lambert and Lt. Henderson returned from Gerbini, having
finished their fifty missions in today's
raid from that base. They reported that both of the two lost
planes we heard about were 12th Gp. ships.
They also reported that the going up there is getting pretty
tough....We are not receiving the proper
number of cigarettes, nor are they in the proper proportions when
they arrive. Our cinemas are quite
old, and it has been ten days since we had a show.
Major Keller bailed out of another plane tonight....The Eye-ties
have as much junk as we have. There
were not many here, but they've taken days and endless numbers of
trucks to vacate. An elderly,
somewhat rotund, Major grew loquacious in the 489th mess, about
the situation: “A short time ago you
were bombing our homes, our women, and our children. And now we
welcome you into our homes
and feed you.”....The soldier's attitude is one of increasing
cynicism....Men on the line have rigged up a
shower with hot water. There are also hot showers in the flying
officers barracks. So fine....Men living
near the Eye-tie A/A crews like them. They visit and play cards,
sing, and play the accordion.
At Gerbini: Another raid. Takeoff at 0750. Target: a road in the
town of Venafro, just North of Capua.
Weather was good and target was plainly visible. A/A very intense
and extremely accurate. Five of the
six 487th ships were holed, but all got back safely. Capt.
Lambert, finishing his fiftieth mission, kept
the slug of shrapnel in the navigator's compartment for a
souvenir. 12th Group had a wounded man.
Lts. Henderson and Howle finished their missions....Real ice cream
for supper caused quite a stir
among the 487th contingent....The movie: “My Favorite Blonde” with
Bob Hope and Madeline Carrol.
On the convoy: On the road at 0900 hours. Road very rough. Stopped
for the night just outside of
Taranto.
23rd
Taranto, about 30 ro 40 miles from here, is a clean, modern city.
At present, it is filled with sailors of
“Regia marina” who do not appear to have a care in the world. A
number of shops are open. The
harbor is a pleasant crescent, much like Tripoli's. The city does
not appear to have been
bombed....Fourteen B-17's from Africa landed here this afternoon.
they will take off tomorrow to bomb
a target in Austria, an aircraft factory near Vienna. A total of
about 200 heavies from Africa will
participate....Sgt. Parkins supervised the blowing of a latrine
this afternoon. It was done with a teller
mine, and Sgt. Parkins says he gave warning to those around. But
officers in adjacent barracks thought
we were being bombed when the buildings shook and plaster came
falling down. The concussion was
felt in the 488th area, so one can imagine what a sleeping man 30
feet away felt like doing....The convoy
arrived. The general opinion was that it was an interesting
journey -- “Oh, how I wish I could have had
a camera” -- but that it was paid for by a lot of hard work.
Vehicles were abandoned, engines were
changed, and much repair work was done. The Service Group doesn't
feel that our transportation will
be up to another move....
At Gerbini: Sather, Egbert, Gellman, and Garrett came over from
Italy. 12th Gp., 488th and 489th went
on a raid. The movie: “Yank on the Burma Road.”
On the Convoy: Left camp area at 0700 hours and by-passed Taranto.
Roads much better. Arrived San
Pancrazio at 1100 hours.
24th
Two more combat crews arrived today. They seem to be right fresh
out of school....Red Cross gave out
donuts today at Group Operations. Difficult to tell how many men
heard the good news, outside of
Group Operations....The 14 B-17/s took off at 0800, were back by
1700 hours. The huge formation
found the target concealed by clouds. Some jettisoned their bombs,
other returned with them. They
encountered no enemy fighters... A barber shop has been set up in
the Squadron....Someone describes
Africa as “Texas with Arabs”....”Lili Marlen” is regarded among
Sicilians and Italians as a German
(Tedesco) song, but there are Italian words. The following were
set down by an Italian officer with the
aid of his Kitchen boys:
I
Tutte le sere
Sotto quel fanal
Presso la caserna
Ti stavo ad aspettar
II
Anche stasera aspettero
E tutto il mondo scordero
Con te Lili Marlen
Con te Lili Marlen
O trombattiere
Stasera non suonar
Che una volte ancor
La voglio salutar
IV
Addio piccina
Dolce amor
Ti portero per sempre
In cuor
Con me Lili Marlen
Con me Lili Marlen
V
Quando ne fango
Debbo Cominar
Sotto il mio bottion
Mi sento vacillar
VI
Che cosa mai
Sara di mi
Ma poi sorrida e penso ate
A te Lili Marlen
A te Lili Marlen
Se chiudo gli occhi
Il vis to m'appar
Co me quella sera
nel cerchio del fanal
Translation: Every night under the street lamp by the police
station I wait for you. This evening I look
for you. I shall forget the world, with you, Lili Marlen. The
bugler can't blow taps until I shall have
seen you once again. Goodbye, sweetheart. I shall take you always
with me in my heart, Lili Marlen.
When the mud sticks to my boots, so that I can't move, I shall go
on because of you, Lili Marlen,
etc....We should be able to great a good German translation in a
few more months....Planes are being
filled from 5-gallon cans of gasoline, in absence of gas bowsers.
It's hard work, and the gas must be
filtered....Wines are better here. Someone reports getting a few
bottles of sparkling Burgundy...Stares
and Stripes of Africa, October 23 edition, carries a fine photo of
a 487th ship dropping bombs North of
the Volturno....
At Gerbini: Up at 0600 hrs. for a raid. Target: Formia, a town on
the coast N. of Naples. Six planes
took off, one returned and let the alternate take his place. Capt.
Rogers led. Weather was clear and
target was clearly visible. Speed over target: 300 miles
indicated. Results: good..A/A was not intense
but was accurate. As the formation came off the target, there was
a burst of A/A near Capt. Rodgers
ship. He stayed with the formation at first, then fishtailed and
pulled out. His left prop was
windmilling, indicating his left motor was gone. He made for the
airport at Naples. It was reported
later that he had telephoned that he had landed near Naples.
25th TOP
Reports drift in that Capt. Rogers bellied his ship in, hit a high
tension wire, but no one was injured.
They flew back to Gerbinin in a transport. Lt. Rosenber, F/O
Griffiths, T/Sgt. Driscoll, and S/Sgt.
Birkley (slying his fiftieth mission) were in his crew....All the
other crews from Gerbini returned today.
They were considerably impressed with the spirit in the 12th Group
and offered many suggestions for
improving our own. They especially liked the mess, the PX, and the
movie at the 12th
Group....Brindisi, about 20 or 30 miles away, is a “good town” but
it's streets are a constant parade of
Italian service men....We've had little news of the war. Our own
front is practically stationary. The
Russians have taken Melitopol, after savage ten-day fighting,
which should cause a German withdrawal
in the Crimea, open the sea of Asov and the Black Sea to Russian
traffic, and out flank
Roumania....Rumor has it that fields in Sicily are getting a bunch
of gliders, which might presage a new
landing someplace around.
26th
Operating from San Pancrazio for the first time today, 12 ships of
the 487th had as a principal target the
town of Frozinone (already hit by some crews of the 487th from
Gerbini). Takeoff was at noon, and
since the primary target was obscured by cloud the formation chose
the alternate at Terracina. Results
reported were good. No ack-ack was encountered and all planes
returned safely. Capt. Parsons and
Capt. Schreiner were on the raid. Lt. Gavin returned from the
hospital, slept in the ambulance for want
of a room....Loudest voices are those who never want to see any
part of this side of the world again, but
quieter voices admit what others may feel – that they'd rather
like to come back after the war and
traverse their route again....Requests going home include lantern
wicks these days....Rumor has it that
Congress has limited overseas service to 20 months. This probably
should not be a law, but should be a
sort of policy (which can be changed, in case of emergency). It
does cut down the feeling that you'll be
away from home until the end of the war, while three fourths of
the men in uniform will drink milk
shakes for the duration.....
27th
One of the guards shot and wounded an Italian working in one of
the Squadron mess halls. Seems a
little strange....The Group Officers Club has opened, with
cookies, local chocolate bars, wine, bourbon
and local rum. The chocolate bars are ersatz, and taste and smell
peculiar....Captain Rogers and his
crew returned. They say Lt. Rosenberg didn't advocate bailing out
over enemy territory, and was all for
trying the belly landing.
28th
1st Sgt. Parkins and others flew to Pantelleria to look after Lt.
Anderson's grave. They discovered the
body had been transferred to the military cemetery in Gela.
29th
Lt. Winebrenner arrived with the operations trailer and other
equipment which he shepherded from
Catania via Landing Ship, Tank....Much ancient mail
arrived....Rations, in good quantity, were
distributed....Rains continue. Many of the landing fields in this
area are entirely unserviceable. They
will not hold up a heavily laden plane.
30th
Sgt. Harry Harasavich has learned he is the father of a boy, his
first....
The Italian A/A gunners let go on a flock of geese, missing them.
Pay-day today. Everyone needs money....Bari, about 75 miles from
here, is a slick-looking town. The
12 AFSC has sponsored nice facilities for housing and feeding
transients. The town has a pretty waterfront,
bordered with hotels, as in Alexandria. Prices have not gone
sky-high – yet....Some man with the
Squadron has been reclassified and is now subject to a deferment.
He's been overseas nine
months....The general opinion is that Italy is not as attractive
as Sicily was. It must be the mud, which
is like glue....Sgt. Copeland, who likes pie, traded the only
piece he's had for months for a pack of
cigarettes. Which shows how scarce the latter have been.
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
November 1943
[Transcriber's note: Some entries are truncated. Please see the
original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Lt. Clifford Swearingen, 487th BS.
The 487th's mission today was a long one – a round trip of 700
miles to Ancona, a port on the East
Coast of Italy. 12 ships from the 487th followed the 486th over
the target at 1255 hours. They dropped
their bombs in the port area, among warehouses and machine shops.
Photos show shipping in the
harbor, but smoke from the 486th bombs prevents accurate
assessment of damage. One large explosion
was observed and this column of smoke can be seen in the oblique
photos....On the return, Lt.
Warnock's ship fell out of formation because of engine trouble and
landed at Foggia A/D. Lt. Emslie
followed him down to learn that the trouble was not serious. No
ack-ack was encountered. The port is
evidently being used to supply axis troops in Yugoslavia....Lt.
Warnock finished his 50th mission
today....Rumor: that the 12th Bomb Group is moving to Foggia main
and that we we'll go to a satellite
filed....The Americans have made a landing on Bougainville Island
in the Pacific. This is the next step
toward Rabaul....The Russians have cut the last land escape route
of the Germans from Crimea....Lt.
Warnock was flying the Squadron's most famous ship – Most famous
by adverse publicity - #304, 7A,
“Satan's Sister.” She is one of the four original ships remaining
to the Squadron. Lt. Willhite brought
her over from the States with Lts. Emslie, Cunningham, S/Sgt's
VanDeraa, Dzialo, Elliot and M/Sgt.
Johnson, flying with him. “Satan's Sister” has given more trouble
than any other ship, and will get two
new engines before she comes back to the Squadron. She's a B-25C,
with 273 hours and 38 combat
missions. At Hergla she was known as “Ground Hog” because frequent
mechanical difficulties kept
her out of the air so much. T/Sgt. Gillis is crew chief and Sgt's
Barnes and Bolonis are assistants. At
Deversoir “Satan's Sister” received five nose guns but these were
removed in May.
2nd
Mission today was to the town of Aquilla, and the target was the
Marshalling Yards there. The alternate
target was Popoli, with the 486th taking the marshaling yards, the
487th the bridge, and the 489th the
town itself. Object was to cut supply communications for the seven
divisions facing the 8th Army,
which is preparing to attack in an effort to crack the line at the
Piscara (which will mean a retreat from
Rome). Take-off was at 0940 hours. There was 9/10ths cloud
coverage around the target, and
navigation was difficult. The town was discovered in a hole in the
clouds, and bombs were dropped
beginning Northeast of the town, and across a road, a railroad, a
secondary road, and perhaps ending in
the landing ground Southeast of the town. Ack-ack was negligible
for our formation, although the
formation following the 487th got more of it. All planes returned
safely....Captain Rogers, T/Sgt.
Driscoll, and T/Sgt. Grillo finished their fifty missions today.
Says Doc Grillo: “Well, its a funny
feeling. Now you know you're going to live to go home.” Lt.
Henderson et al have spent five days in
and around Naples. They report that Eboli is a shambles. That the
ruins of Pompei are in ruins.
Evidently the 487th hit the ruins in a couple of places when they
were over in September. There are two
craters in the amphitheater, and the museum is wrecked....The
Fifth Army has its headquarters in a
beautiful palace North of Naples. Naples itself is not as badly
torn up as we hear....Captain Bugbee
wanted to go up to the front lines, but the others persuaded him
it wasn't profitable.
3rd
Target for today was a pinpointed area west of the little town of
Cupello, Italy, wherein were located
munitions stores and supplies. Three pinpoints marked the area.
The first box of bombs fell yards
South of the Southern pinpoint, while the second box fell within
an equal distance of the Northern
point. No bombs fell exactly within the area. A/A was scattered,
but Lt. Garrett got a piece of flak in
his plane. The boys were back safely in time for lunch. Lt.
Gellman's plane took the lead in the second
box when the lead ship, equipped with bombsight, failed to take
off. There was no bombsight in Lt.
Gellman's ship, so he lined up the target with a pencil and the
toe of his shoe. His bombs landed where
he wanted them to land, but unfortunately he hadn't paid much
attention at briefing, not expecting to
lead, and he picked out the wrong bend in the road....Lt. Fonda finished
his fifty missions today. He
recently commented that missions were beginning to bore him....Lt.
Loysen reports that he could see
divebombers giving the Jerrys hell, and that ship were shelling
the shore, so the offensive on the East
coast must be on....No movies yet. If we go on to the 12th of
November, a month will have passed
without them....Scads of packages came in today, in double quick
time. Capt. Meriwether got a
package in thirty days, quicker than the first class mail has in
many cases been coming through. Most
of them are Christmas packages, but are not being kept for the
glad day....Lt. Fonda's bowlegged dog is
now the property of Sgt. Holmstrom, a gift. His name is Mike and
he wobbles. Sgt. Cashat's dog Rex
was purchased with a package of cigarettes in Arizona (not USA).
He's good for nothing, says Sgt.
Cashat. 1st Sgt. Parkins' latest pet was a hound of very ordinary
appearance. Pfc Hausmann lost him in
the shuffle of moving to this base....First class travel on the
local choo-choo to Lecce is a ride in a cattle
car....
4th
Stand-down today....Story has it that some man in the Group had a
girl in town at Catania. And when
we moved he bundled her up in GI clothes and brought her along.
She's now over in the Provost
Marshall's office, and he’s in hot water for transporting a
civilian across the border, or something....
Most men wish they could speak Italian. They feel they could have
a good time, “if they could only
speak the lingo.” It's getting colder, and looks like a hard
winter ahead, especially for ones who've had
their blood thinned out in Africa....Today we had a nice vegetable
salad for supper. Purchasers in
Naples brought back an airplane full of fresh vegetables,
including red apples....T/Sgt. Ralph Williams
is back in the Squadron, after spending some months in the
hospital. He was dropped from our rolls,
and presumed to have gone back to the States....Christmas cards
over here are gaudy things. They have
“Bon Natale” in a corner, but that's about the only traditional
Christmas touch. They usually feature
pretty girls in the arms of extravagantly handsome males,
surrounded by piles of roses. They are all
slicked up and highly colored....
5th
Stand-down all day. Rain all night....Otto Stellato spent nearly a
week in Naples with the vegetable buying
crowd, visiting his relatives in between cabbages. He says when he
gets back to America he
never wants to leave, because he has too many cousins over here.
He reports that they could not
believe that New York and other cities had not been bombed to
ruins....An explanation of why there
have ben no movies in three weeks has been given. Special Services
officer says he has no generator
and no help. Recommendation: The T/O should provide him with a
generator plus projector, and
should give him from three to five helpers, at least one of whom
is trained to care for the
machinery....Lt Chandler has returned from the hospital, ready for
duty. He shows no outward ill
effects. When questioned on how he got out of Lt. Bell's plane, he
says he just “walked out,” but those
who saw the plane wonder what there was to walk out of. It was a
miracle....The knitted sweaters
which arrived overseas from mothers and sisters in the last war
are not yet a common feature of this
war. But a few men have been requesting them....In a Jersey City
paper appeared a War Bond ad
captioned: “Whose Blood Saved Pvt. Parkins?” It went on to say
that Pvt. Stan Parkins had been
injured at Guadalcanal, etc. An Aunt of the 1st Sergeant Stanley
Parkins, 487th Bomb Squadron, now of
Italy, sent the clipping to Sgt. Parkins' papa, who made official
queries, wondering about his boy who
he thought was in Tunisia and not Guadalcanal. The Bond Salesmen
said the name was meant to be
entirely fictional....Some allotments are being lowered in amount,
with the explanation that champagne
and other whoopee is very expensive in these parts....The Fifth
and Eighth Armies both advanced as the
fall of Vasto and Isernia were reported. The Germans have
evacuated Venafro )bombed by the 487th in
October) and allied troops are approaching that city....The
Russians have cleared the Dneiper and
Bugestuaries. A point near Nikopol is the last point on the East
bank of the Dneiper left to the
Germans. Russians only 3 miles from Kiev and the fall of that
stronghold is inevitable.
6th
Stand-down today....Three ships went to Bizerte for modification
(addition of waist guns, etc). They
took off today at 1400 hours, with skeleton crews. Upon reaching
this area, they couldn't find the field,
because darkness had set in. One crew circled around for two
hours, bailed out. Lt Auter is back in the
Squadron. The others in his crew have not been heard from, and
nothing is known yet of the other two
ships, piloted by Lts Hague and McCabe. It is possible, and
entirely probable, that they RON'd in
Catania....A fighter-bomber pilot says the fighter-bombers are
sweating out a classification. If they are
bombers, they have fifty missions on a tour, but if they are
fighters, the tour consists of 80
missions....Big rain today. Washed away all the outside
latrines....Lt Wolkoff remarks that pilots on
their last mission are more excited than they were on their
first....Christmas cards are coming in
already....The OM is getting a nice supply of cigarettes to us.
There still has been no movie since
October 12th, nearly a month; the food is still dull, but
enlivened somewhat briefly by real potatoes with
the skins on, purchased in Naples....The Notre Dame-Army game had
very poor reception on this end.
Score 26 to 0....A random count of a part of the day's mail
revealed the following information: Of 73
letters, 34 were addressed to “Mrs.”, 14 to “Miss”, 14 to “Mr.”
(of these, 9 were to men in the service)
six were to “Mr. and Mrs.”, and 1 was addressed to “The Blank Family”....The
German radio says the
Allies have bombed the Vatican City....The Russians announce the
fall of Kiev....Lt. Lather reveals an
interesting sidelight: Lt. Anderson dreaded being alone in the
dark. He didn't like to be outside a
flashlights beam; he wouldn't park his car in the garage, because
it was dark behind the house. He must
have been in terror when he had to bail out in the dark, and was
alone in the dark water.
7th
Take-off this morning was at 1015 hours, and the target was again
the harbor at Ancona. 9 planes of
the 487th were over the harbor at 1225 hours, encountered no
opposition. The first box claimed 90
percent hits in the Northeast quarter of the harbor basin and
shore. The second box dropped their
bombs west and parallel to the pattern of the first box and also
in the Northeast quarter of the harbor
basin and shore. There were no casualties, and all planes returned
safely to the base. The entire second
box refueled at Bari, and were consequently late in
returning....Lts. Loysen and Garrett completed their
fifty missions. Lt. Loysen says he'll be like an old warhorse
turned in his old age to pasture, ready after
a few days for the harness again....Still no movies since October
12....Lts. Hague and McCabe have not
yet been heard from. All passengers and crew of Lt. Cox's plane
have been accounted for. One of the
passengers was a movie photographer, who was coming over with some
equipment to photograph the
Group's activities. Another passenger was Lt. Auter, who was returning
from leave given him after
Capt. Roger's plane, in which he was riding as NB, belly
landed....Lt. Cox got a bunged up nose when
he landed on a roof-top, and someone else hurt his ankle,
otherwise no casualties from the jump. The
plane was a brand new one. Some photographs taken in Walterboro
have come to light and have been
distributed as far as they will go....It is reported that the
Germans call the B-25's “Devil
Murders.”....One of the combat crew members going home says he
expects to go into combat again
after a short rest, but he doesn't mind a second tour so long as
he has the chance to see his folks....Some
popular post-war plans; to get married; to get drunk; to go on a
long auto trip; to go to a good
restaurant and eat....Sicilians and Italians share the opinion
that all Americans are very rich....Capt.
Parsons returned from the hospital where he has been recovering
from yellow jaundice....One of the
missing planes is Lt. Coyle's favorite - #530, 7U, “Rosie.” She is
famous for her lovely Petty girl,
painted by Sgt. Greg Moore. She was our first replacement ship
from Columbia, our old station. Ferry
pilots brought her over. A tail gun was put in at Hergla by
Squadron Armament, and she has been in
Bizerte getting waist guns and extra armor. She had her name when
she came. Crew chief is T/Sgt.
Horwitz. Assistant are Sgt. Barankovich and Sgt. Grossman. “Rosie”
came to us when we were in
Sfax, but because she had no waist guns, no tail gun, and no lower
turret, she could not fly in combat
until we reached Comiso. She is a B-25C, has 340 hours, and 26
combat missions. On a night mission
to Grozzanise L/G on Sept. 9th, “Rosie” got lost, landed at
Casabile L/G for the night.
8th TOP
No mission today because of rain....There seems to be considerable
sickness in the Group as a whole,
and we probably have our proportion in the Squadron. The weather
is getting cold, and of course it is
damp. Someone comments that there are no a great many
colds....Temporary stoves are blossoming.
They are made of metal, burning diesel oil, and of mud and brick,
burning scarce coal and wood.
Stoves have been ordered from the quartermaster....Frequent
comment: the British dentists and doctors
are good. They have the “civilian” touch....It is reported in
conversation that the Italian soldier's pay is
about $3.00 per month, that he has one uniform, and that his food
is PP. In Sicily the Italian soldiers
put on civilian clothes, went trudging home to the farm. In Italy,
the civilians put on soldiers uniforms,
got themselves captured, and went jubilantly to the Unightd
States. Or so we hear....Some of the boys
were cheering about the carton of so of cigarettes (a bonanza)
we've received lately, then found theirs
got soaking wet in the rains....
Talk: that the photographer in the plane the other night would not
jump, had to be shoved out. In
Walterboro, a man in the squadron evidently “froze” and went down
with a plane rather than
jump....Still missing with “Rosie,” is T/Sgt. Latady's ship #389,
squadron No. 7J. She was a
replacement, coming in at Hergla. Because she had no waist guns,
no lower turret, and no tail gun, she
could not fly in combat until we reached Comiso. The Squadron
installed a tail gun, and she had been
sent to Bizerte for waist guns and additional armor plating. A
B-25D, she was brought in by ferry
pilots. Our won pilots say she is a very nice plane, that they
like to fly her. She's never received much
flak, never given much mechanical trouble, never had an engine
change. Assistant crew chiefs: S/Sgt.
harding and Sgt. Gears. All her boys like to hear her motors run,
so 7J has a lot of “ground time.” She
has 25 combat missions to her credit....
9th
A pleasant sunny day, but stand-down all day. Probably lots of
weather over the targets....Lts. Hague
and McCabe brought their planes in. Lt. McCabe came only as far as
Catania. Lt. Hague went farther,
returned to make a night landing at Catania. The weather was
ferocious....Quotes: “One of the crew
chiefs awoke in the night, reached to the floor alongside his cot
for his flashlight. He felt a little water
and instantly thought his puppy had wet the floor, but even as he
thought that, his hand kept going
deeper into the water, until most of his forearm was submerged.
When he found his flashlight – it still
worked thought it had been submerged – he saw that there was about
a foot of water on the floor of his
tent, and his shoes were floating around like boats on a lake.
“This is “Sunny Italy” for you.” Group
has made up some mimeographed Christmas greetings on V-mail forms.
A map of Italy and Sicily, a
candle, and the legend “Season's Greetings from over here,” adorn
the front....Some men have acquired
very attractive greeting cards showing the squadron at services in
the Cathedral of St. Agatha,
Catania....Tarkany and others in Lt. Cox's plane had taken all
their possessions to Bizerte, planning a
long stay while guns and armor were put in. Everything was lost,
and they have only the clothes on
their backs....We're getting our daily pack of cigarettes
now....Our first show since October 12 came our
way tonight. It was a B picture, “One Thrilling Night,” but
everyone enjoyed it. Lt. Sumner went to
Manduro for the film. Lt. Winebrenner furnished the generator. Lt.
Gjertson was present....Plane No.
539, Sq. No. 7P, “Eileen,” a B-25C, has recently been to Bizerte
for modification. It has a new tail gun,
and a new waist gun installation. The size of the windows is increased
and the mount is hinged so the
that guns can shoot straight down. “Eileen” came in as a
replacement at Hergla, already named. Lt.
Cerutti brought it to Deversoir, left it. She has 323 hours and 53
combat missions, and is a “molte
bono” plane. Never given much trouble, and has, according to Major
Murray and Capt. Parsons, the
best set of instruments in the group. She now has a sort of box of
armor plate for the pilot, with armor
overhead, and on the left side. T/Sgt. Van derAa (spelling
correct) is crew chief and Sgt. Hill and Cpl.
Brandt are assistants....
10th
Dull weather, but no rain. Stand-down. Col. Tokaz spoke to the
officers at 1500 hours, calling on them
to play less and work more. He revealed also that the raid
tomorrow would be interesting. The bomber
field in Greece which had been troubling the British in the
Dodecanese would be wiped off the map in
one grand gesture, with 48 planes from this Group and 84 other
B-25's going over at about the same
time, Dropping frags and big delays varying up to 12 hours....No
Mail has arrived in several
days....One man is glad he hasn't been sick, because he's seen a
lot of the “don't-give-a-damn” attitude
in the Army....A number of little Okie shacks have sprung up around.
With the construction of stoves
and other effort to make things cozy, many individuals are getting
a real thrill out of home-making.
They feel a real affection for their little shacks....The Squadron
is looking forward to spending Christmas
in Rome, which seems to rank next to spending it at home. Serio
has two cousins there, and he wants
to take in services with them at St. Peter's....”Dixie Girl”
(#081) is an interesting plane. She had her
name when she arrived with the 3 other oldies on August 28th from
the 310th. She evidently had been
used for torpedo work, because there were no bomb controls on her.
She was in bad shape – gas gauges
didn't work, control cables were loose, etc. - and she had been
shot up considerably. A B-25 C, she had
53 combat missions when she came to us. Underneath her 53 little
bombs, someone had drawn a red
line, inscribing thereon the legend. “Any more is against our
better judgment.” She has now 69
combat missions and 502 hours. “Dixie Girl” has regular B-25
armament and no extra armor. There
are no wing racks, because of inability to replace the wing rack
controls. Crew chief is T/Sgt Truex,
and assistants are S/Sgt. Kelly, and S/Sgt. Kolinek. “Dixie Girl”
has the distinction of being the only
one of our ships to return with a wounded man aboard: on the
October 4th raid of Capua, T/Sgt. Pinion
was wounded in the leg....
11th
No rain, but the anticipated raid on Greece was canceled....Our
second show was presented tonight -
“Dr. Gillespie's New Assistant.” There were two showings, one at
is located in a building inside a former Prisoner of War camp for
British prisoners who built the landing
strip for the Eye-ties....The moon was bright. Romance stirred in
innumerable bosoms....Comment: “I
don't want anyone feeling sorry for me, but I sure as hell don't
want anyone telling me how lucky I am
being overseas.” More comment: “We've stood it for nine months; I
guess we can stick it out.” The
cool weather has reminded many old outdoorsmen that the hunting
season is in full swing back home.
They're a little wistful....Some of the men were in Bari a few
nights ago when the Germans came over.
There were three alerts and one plane each time. No damage was
done, and the A/A barrage was awe inspiring....
Reports have it that the Eye-ties were receiving 3 cents per day
in training, and 5 cents per
day in combat, with a few cents extra for families....Italian
cooking doesn't appeal to American tastes.
It is rank with olive oil....Some mail was in today – not
much....One of our original ships is “Early
Bird” (278 – 7K). Lt. H.H. Anderson flew her across. At Sfax, she
was nearly always a standby, Then
at Hergla she caught up, and then at Comiso she had more missions
than any ship and held the record
until “Tuff Stuff” began to work up. “Early Bird” has 50 combat
missions and 338 hours. She is a B-
25C, and was one of those with five nose guns for a while. Crew
chief is T/Sgt. Laiten, and assistants
are S/Sgt. Handzel and Sgt. Deveau....
12th
Most of the men in the Squadron never tire of watching the
airplanes take-off and land. There is always
a fascination about them. But this morning's formation was a sight
to behold. Some 48 planes of the
340th joined with other B-25's to make a total of about 130 B-25's
in the air at one time. They roared
over the field in a great cloud and rendezvoused with 60 or 70
fighters over Lecce. The target for this
mass of planes was Athens/Tatoi A/D, but because of weather they
attacked the alternate target, the A/D
at Berut Kucode, Albania. They were over the target at 0950, and
dropped clusters of 20 lb frag bombs.
They covered the field, our 11 planes dropping theirs on the
runway and to the right of it. Some fires
were started. The frag bombs were a new experience, and a
hazardous one, since they fell out of the
bomb bays like pieces of paper, endangering the planes behind. Lt.
Emslie's plane got a hole in the tail
by one of the cluster rods. A/A was intense and accurate, but only
one plane was reported to be holed.
All returned safely. This was the 487th's first raid in the
Balkans, and was the 50th raid for Lt.
Cerrutti....
The women here seem to do all the work. You can always see them
busily picking olives. And when
you go to town, you see the streets crowded with men doing
nothing....Some American Christmas cards
are being sent home. They must have been brought over by
thoughtful souls. They are much more
colorful and attractive then the Bon Natale cards bought here. The
latter feature romance and
champagne more than they do the St. Nick spirit....For supper
tonight, we had coffee without sugar, due
to the shortage of the latter....The Orderly Room has acquired a
wonderful new stove, made of 55-gal
drum, and burning coal. It makes a sweat box of the tent, and Sgt.
Dunlap has been seen to remove his
shirt to keep cool....Nearly everyone has some sort of stove in
his tent. Some are using blow
torches....Reports are coming in that the Boston papers have
published the group photos taken at
Catania by press representatives....A new war-bond slogan at home
appears to be “Buy your son's ticket
home with a War Bond.” Some of the boys are critical, probably
because the subject of going home is
too sacred to be bounced around for publicity purposes. Comment:
“We ain't fixing on coming home
until we whipped Jerry as much as we love our homes so don't
believe them 4-Fers back home....”Hell's
Pecker” will soon have enough missions to go home. He likes to
ride so much that he goes into a lather
when he sees a plane taking off. He wants to get into it....Those
visiting Naples find it very attractive,
and a good town. A bunch of rating have come out, and the
additional pay is appreciated.
13th
The show tonight was “Meet John Doe.” Gary Cooper and Walter
Brennan were impressive, and
everyone enjoyed a first class show for a change, even though an
old one. There were two matinées in
the afternoon....Everyone knows when Saturday night comes, because
the Chaplain announces
Sunday's services. It's very difficult to keep up with the other
days of the week. Catholic services here
are held in the Officers Club at
German Accent, and is considered a very good chaplain. Protestant
services are held at
are presided over by Chaplain Cooper. Jewish services occur on
Friday evening, also at the Officers
Club....”Our Jewel” (246-7E) was named after Lt. Wilkerson's wife.
It is an original ship. Lt.
Wilkerson, Major Whittington, Lt. Loysen, M/Sgt. Czarnowski,
S/Sgt. Jones, S/Sgt. Durie, and T/Sgt.
Grillo came over in it. It leads the Squadron in engine changes,
has had six new engines three on each
side. T/Sgt. Adkins is the crew chief, and S/Sgt. Heinzelman and
Sgt. Buchanan are assistants. “our
Jewel” has 45 combat missions and 317 hours. She is a B-25C, and
was one of those formerly
equipped with 5 nose guns. She has armor plate on the floor of the
pilot's compartment and on the
floor of the bombardier's compartment. The most severe damage she
has received was caused by a tip
hatch falling into a prop on a preflight. It took two days to
repair the damage....A new order allows
one-half of one percent of ground personnel to be sent home per month.
At this rate, it will take some
fifteen years to get everyone back to the States....
14th
Lt. McCabe called today's raid “the most interesting” he had ever
been on. The target was the
marshaling yards at Sofia, Bulgaria, a hitherto-unbombed city. (Alternate
targets were M/Y's at Nis
and Skopje, Yugoslavia, and the A/D and refinery at Berut Kucode,
Albania.) Besides accomplishing
damage to military installations, the raid would accomplish a
political result by letting Bulgaria,
weakening in her love for Germany, know that a war is going on,
and cause her to call for her soldiers
on the Russian front to come home to protect the home front.
Forty-eight 340th Group planes took off
at 1010 hours (12 from each Sq, with one of our crews filling in
the 12th for the 486th) to join 48 others
of the 321st Group. 48 P-38's gave them fighter cover, and they
were over the target at 1230. Three
bombs in each box were 6-hour delays. Returning crews were more
than satisfied with the results,
saying at least 85% of the bombs hit the yards, but photographs
(there were none from our Squadron)
showed only patterns falling short. Colonel Tokaz, who went on the
raid, appeared to be satisfied until
he saw the photographs. At least 4 enemy fighters, probably ME
109's, arose to meet the invaders, and
at least two of these were seen to be shot down by the P-38's. A/A
was intense, but was inaccurate,
probably because gun crews were inexperienced and excited. Two of
our ships were slightly holed, but
all returned in formation. The raid was announced by the Germans,
but was not verified by the Allies
on the radio. It was the first raid which impressed us with the
horror of bombing, because it was on a
bunch of civilians who must have been surprised by the approach of
the planes. Many of the crews
have heretofore expressed a dislike of bombing little towns to
create road blocks, but most everyone
realizes that the citizens should have got out into the hills, and
probably had a chance to do so. But this
raid was different, and must have cost a lot of lives....A
birthday party was held last night for one the
first cooks. All the kitchen personnel had a fine time....A/A is
familiarly known these days as “black
olives”....The show last night was “Sporting Blood” with Robert
Young and Maureen O'Sullivan.
Everyone enjoyed it, especially the siren who wooed but lost. She
rather made a bust of things....We
had biscuits for supper....That makes 3 “firsts”: first time Sofia
has been bombed first time we've had
P-38 cover, and the first time we've had biscuits....
15th TOP
Today's raid was most successful. 48 planes of the 340th,
including 12 for the 487th Squadron, took off
at 1010 hours to bomb the Athens/Kalamaki Airdrome. 487th was
tail-end Charley, and carried 500
pound bombs. All the other ships carried frag bombs. They were to
beet the 321st, which turned back,
either because of weather or because they figured the trip was too
long for their gas supply. The 340th
went on. The first box of the 487th covered the east-west runway
in close concentration, crossing the
intersection with the north-south runway.
One element of the second box hit the north-south runway at about
its middle point, while the second
element of the box hit it farther down. Direct hits can be
observed. The frag bombs were extremely
well placed in the dispersal areas. A reconnaissance photo taken
yesterday shows two hangers, but our
photos show only one, the other having vanished in smoke. Col.
Tokaz is well pleased, and estimates
that at least 30 planes were destroyed on the ground. These were
the bombers harassing the British
troops attempting to hold the island of Leros, and other islands
in the Aegean. All of our planes
returned safely, reporting that ack-ack was not intense, and that
the few fighters which arose to
intercept were taken care of by the P-38 escort. It was a long
trip, and gas got low. Two planes stopped
at Lecce for more gas. Suggestion for the next war: That a good
gas gauge be invented....The orderly
room bulletin board carries a notice that we have been overseas 9
months today, and that the boys can
now stop worrying about babies. Some smarties say its just the
time to begin worrying....Also on the
board is a cartoon showing an officer and a private just pulling
onto a tiny island after being
shipwrecked, with the caption: “Now lets get things organized.
Your first detail, Jones, will be to get
up an officer's mess.”....Show tonight was “Invitation to
Happiness” with Irene Dunne and Fred
McMurray. Nearly everyone wanted to spank the little boy....Cold
weather evidently delayed the
explosion of the six-hour delays dropped on Sofia, for the Germans
said they were still exploding
today. There were 48 of the m. Lt. Sumner took off for Tunis today,
having been transferred to the
photo reconnaissance wing. Lts. Warnock, Henderson, Howle, Captain
Rodgers, T/Sgt. Grillo, and
T/Sgt. Driscoll left for home, home in the U.S.A.....T/Sgt.
Longman finished his 50th mission....
16th
Another successful raid today, although “not as good as
yesterday’s.” Target was Athens/Eleusis A/D,
with the 487th having frags for the dispersal area in the
Northeast corner of the field. They took off at
1015 and dropped their frags – guess where – in the dispersal area
in the Northeast corner of the field.
four squadrons of the 340th participated with as many from the
321st. Each squadron flew nine planes,
in a new type of formation designed to give a wider front. No
fighters were observed. Flak was
intense coming off the target, but all planes returned safely. It
was black, red, and white, all heavy.
Some crew members observed fires still burning on the
Athens/Kalamaki field bombed yesterday.
(Note: a 487th bomb got one of the hangers on that field,
unreported yesterday.)....Eight good men and
true finished their 50th mission today: Lts. Emslie, D. R.
Peterson, Black, T/Sgt. Campbell, Mancini,
Pinion, S/Sgts. Crane and Dzialo....Show tonight was “Wake Island”
with Brian Donlevy, popular in
the States about a year ago....News came today that we will start
moving to Foggia Satellite on the 19th
and will complete the move by the 21st. It's tents again, and lots
of mud. And last of B25's, for the
321st is planning to move there, as well as the 12th. Rumor has it
that B-24's will occupy this field,
which is a very good idea. They should definightly come closer
than Africa....
17th
Everything happened today. For the third time, take-off was at
1010, and for the second time the target
was Athens/Kalamaki A/D. 36 ships from the 340th and 36 from the
321st (9 from the 487th) were over
the target at 1225 (usually over at 1300). Lt. Moose Sather says:
“The fighters were on us before we
hit the target. They were all coming at us from the sun, at
We continued on our run with the fighters on our tail and ack-ack
all around us. It was a beautiful
pattern in the dispersal areas to the left of the runway. We
carried frag bombs. We used strong evasive
action as we turned off the target, to avoid ack-ack. There was a
terrific dog-fight going on just above
the target. We had just hit th coast again, when I looked up and
saw 4 planes dropping bombs on us.
The planes were about a 1000 feet above our formation, and the
bombs fell about 100 yards in front of
us. We felt trapped – we couldn't use evasive action to avoid them
– I was scared. It was the first time
the 487th had been bombed, and it was a new experience.
Immediately afterward, the P-38's went after
them. I saw two of them go down in smoke, and was the P-38's going
after the other one. I saw one P-
38 follow an ME down till the Jerry pilot bailed out, then the
P-38 pulled up into a steep climb and
knocked off two more ME's. All this time, the gunner on our ship
was blazing away. We proceeded on
our way home, and over Argus we got ack-ack again, but it was
negligible. We pinpointed a lot of
shipping in about 5 different places in the
Adriatic.”....Dillingham, Casey, and Bradley each claimed
planes, the latter claiming two shot down....All our planes returned
safely, but Lt. Pirnie's 7-P was
considerably shot up. The flaps were gone, and his hydraulic
system was out. They lowered the
landing gear by cranking, and came in without brakes or flaps. The
plane went off the end of the
runway and into the vineyard. There was a big hole between the
fuselage and right nacelle, and in the
tail assembly. Four P-38's escorted him back. Lt. Pirnie says: “I
want to see those boys.”....One of the
486th planes was shot down, and 4 chutes were seen to open. No one
reported the loss of any of the
fighter escort....M/Sgt. Lynch did not comment on “Eileen's” being
shot up, other than to say that she is
now the service group's problem....At dusk tonight a bunch of
B-24's circled around trying to find the
field. They came in for an hour or so, and the field was a great
bustle of lights and badly parked
aircraft. It is reported that the planes carried luggage and
equipment, and that they plan to remain here.
We have received orders to vacate by the 21st. Some 2000 lb bombs
were observed being brought on to
the field – a little large for effective use by us....Christmas
cards were sold yesterday at 10 for a
shilling. They are single fold of glazed paper, with a B-25
(probably 488th Squadron) on the front,
flying over clouds. The legend inside says “Season's Greetings
from the 340th Bombardment
Group.”....The show tonight was “Background to Danger” with George
Raft and Sidney Greenstreet.
Not bad....Lt. McCabe says “There are more characters in Italy than
in all of North Africa.” He should
know....Simenitzky, the only one of the original flight officers
remaining, finished his fifty missions.
Gavin also finished.
18th
Captain Lambert and S/Sgt. Birkley left for the Unightd States
today. Stand-down all day, giving
everyone a chance to pack up for the moving. Trucks came early for
a change, and most sections were
struck and on the trucks by dark....Nelson was peeved because
several bags of Christmas packages
arrived just at nightfall. But he distributed them....Captain
Meriwether again questioned the gunners
regarding the planes they knocked down yesterday, and will try to
have credit given to the men for
them....
Lt. Sherbourne brings a story about the B-17's which came into
this field this afternoon. He says
thirteen were shot down in the Athens area. He says they headed
for the Athens/Kalamaki, found it a
total wreck (from B-25 bombing) and headed on toward their
alternate target. Fighters escorted one
formation, and were to return and pick up the second formation.
But for some reason there was no tie
up, and the B-17's went in without cover....Captain Meriwether is
giving souvenirs to the men finishing
their tours and going home, the silk maps of the Mediterranean
area out of the escape kits. In Bizerte at
present is ship no. 045 (7L), “Flak Happy,” for modification. She
is one of the 4 old 310th ships which
came in on August 28, at Catania, and was painted green and had
its very appropriate name when she
came. She was the most shout up of the 4 when she came – she was
almost one big solid patch. She's
flown thirteen combat missions for the 487th and has got only one
hole. But she did get hit by our own
ack-ack at Catania while she was sitting on the ground, and
received four more holes. A B-25C, she
has no design painted on her, but did have the 310th Skull and
Crossbones on her, which T/Sgt. Aul, the
crew chief, had removed because there wasn't enough room for
stenciling bombs on. She has never
given much trouble – only once has she failed to go on a scheduled
mission. Assistant crew chiefs are
S/Sgt. Click and Sgt. Carlson. “Flak Happy” is T/Sgt. Aul's second
ship. His first was “Miss Minooki”
which crashed with Lt. Baran and crew on July 13th. “Flak Happy”
has a total of 68 missions and 482
hours....
19th
The Ground Echelon pulled out from San Pancrazio A.D this morning
at 0800 hours – only a hour later
than the scheduled time. The air echelon remained operational, and
expected to leave San Pancrazio
A.D on the 21st, after perhaps doing a mission on the 20th. But in
the middle of the morning, orders
came through for all the planes of the 486th and 487th to fly to
Foggia Main to operate with the 12th
Bomb Group. Although we had precious little transportation, and
although the declaration of a standdown
had sent a rollicking crowd of men off to Lecce, the planes were
packed with baggage, and the
first ship took off about 1400 hours. Four 487th and two or three
486th ships reached Foggia Main. The
others either turned back because of the weather of never took off
because of the late hour. At Foggia
main, there was talk of fresh offensive operations to begin in the
morning – that the 12th Group, and
perhaps the 340th, would do two missions during the day. Crews
were instructed to pile their baggage
on the ground, that trucks would take them to the 81st and 82nd
squadrons for supper and that TBF
trucks would pick up their bedrolls and cots and deposit them at
the large Tactical Bomber Force
headquarters buildings, where crews would spend the night. In
spite of the confusions and omissions,
this general plan was carried out....The TBF buildings were former
administrative buildings of a Fascist
ONC agricultural project. Crews were bedded down in an auditorium
behind the handsome church,
used now by the TBF personnel as a mess hall. We were expected to
vacate the place early next
morning, fly a mission (perhaps two) and then take off for
Satellite Three to join the ground
echelon....A wine shop and officers and NCO clubs furnished
amusement....It was fairly definightly
decided around night fall that the half dozen planes present would
not fly a combat mission the next
morning....
The ground echelon arrived after dark, had difficulty finding the
field. They were throwing something
together for the night when it was announced that a cinema would
show out in the open, in the area. It
was Jeanette McDonald in “Cairo.” Cracks from the audience were
the chief attraction....
487th Squadron Album of
Capt. Chas. Cook
20th
At Foggia main, crews were up and around their planes early. They
all stood on a rockpile outside 12th
Group Ops and wondered what was up. The only orders seemed to be
to hang around until Major
Bailey should call. The 12th Group Colonel seemed displeased by
our presence, and made little effort
to conceal his displeasure. Air Commodore Sinclair, TBF Commander,
approached in a natty blue
uniform and said he was sorry for the confusion, adding that it
was unfair for the heavies to push us out
before the fighters got off our field. This was our first
information on the reasons for the unfortunate
move. At about 1100 hours the rest of the 487th came in, and in
the afternoon many of the 489th planes
showed up. While practically on the verge of putting bombs in the
ships, ordnance men received orders
to wait. And at about 1500 hours, it was decided that we probably
would not operate at all from this
field, but would probably be here “several days.” TBF trucks were
late in arriving for luggage, and it
was not until well after dark that crews got back to headquarters
buildings. Crew chiefs, gas truck men,
and others fortunate enough to have one, pitched their tents out
by the planes....At Satellite No. 3, it
began to rain. The 79th Fighter Group, containing the famous 99th
Negro Squadron, could not leave the
field because their base was not ready to occupy, probably because
unserviceable....
21st
Several bags of mail had been brought up yesterday on the planes,
and it was decided to open the sacks.
This detail occupied most of a rainy morning, and a number of
letters and musty packages were
received. In the afternoon, Cpl. Nelson arrived to take away that
part of the mail belonging to those at
Foggia Satellite No. 3 (just called “Number 3”). He reported that the
mess hall had been set up there,
and that the place was a sea of mud. The colonel commanding the
P-40's there was displeased by the
arrival of the 340th, had drawn a line and dared anyone to cross
it....The 12th Group attempted a mission
in the rain, did a takeoff practically on instruments, circled the
field and formed up but soon returned
with their bombs....TBF personnel did not particularly approve of
our moving in on them, but were
decent about it. There was some talk about the Americans clogging
the toilets....The other squadrons
moved out of the building and didn't show up again. No one seemed
to know where they went,
although someone suggested they had done the wise thing and had
gone to some comfortable hotel in
Bari....
22nd TOP
At Foggia Main it rained again. In the afternoon, two trucks went
into
(American Red Cross Theater) to see a South African revue, put on
by the “Troopadours.” One truck
left at intermission, to get back by chow time, but the other
stayed for the whole show, which was fairly
good. Some numbers were repeated almost, especially the numbers by
the ballet team. Favorites were
the female impersonator (especially the dance of the Seven Veils)
and the six attractive girls. The
second truck, having missed supper, stopped in at the Red Cross
for bread, jam, and coffee. It hit the
spot....Rain poured at Number 3, and activity became suspended. It
was almost impossible to get even
so far as the mess tent....
23rd
At Foggia Main, rain fell again. Lt. Pirnie, Sgt. Berry, and Sgt.
Warrington came down with
something, probably jaundice, and went to the hospital. Out on the
line, Sgt. Horwitz and someone else
also went....The line shifted more or less for itself, eating at
the transit mess and the 81st line mess, and
visiting the 12th Group movie at night. Several saw “Road To
Morocco” a couple of times....At TBF, a
truck went to Foggia again, to the Flagello, to see “Love Crazy”
with William Powell and Myrna
Loy....
24th
At Foggia Main, arrangements had been made with the Red Cross
Clubmobile girls to serve donuts and
coffee at ten o'clock in the morning. They were late in arriving,
and all those who had slept through
breakfast on purpose got hungry. There were two girls, very
friendly, and the donuts and coffee were
really appreciated. They promised to come again on Saturday and
feed those who had been forgotten
out on the line....The evening show was “When the Daltons Rode” a
western with Brian Donlevy, Kay
Francis, and a bunch of quick trigger men. It was held at the
American Red Cross Little Theater in
town, and for once the driver did not get lost in Foggia....
25th
As one man put it, this was the day to begin a diary. And not
because it was Thanksgiving....A mission
from Foggia Main was scheduled, and the time over target was noon.
Most of us knew it was a “noon
mission” but we thought it was
everything was delayed. At 1045, time of takeoff, some planes had
no bombs. Credit is to be given to
the 12th Group ordnance crews, who did a noble job of getting the
bombays filled in nothing flat.
Targets were strategic ones in Yugoslavia, with primary target
being the World War famous Sarajevo,
where someone got himself assassinated to begin the first great
conflict. Our crews found the weather
terrible and brought their bombs back, landing at Number3. It was
counted as a mission, and Lt. Mayer
and Sgt. Dillingham finished their tour....At Main, orders seemed
to be to send the luggage of those
crews who had flown the mission to Number 3. Work was started, but
delayed by a fine Thanksgiving
dinner, with roast turkey, at the 81st Squadron mess. The luggage
started out about four, just about the
time the crews were being sent back to TBF for the night. They
arrived to find their bedding gone, but
blankets and warm places were found for them by sympathetic TBF
personnel. Only a few wanted to
return, although Captain Parsons said they should be sent back to
sleep in the mess hall at Number 3.
About six returned, but in the meantime the bedding had been sent
back to TBF. It was a day for the
books....A good stage show was presented in Foggia as part of a
special Thanksgiving program....At
Number 3, Thanksgiving dinner was a superb meal. Lt. Gellman said
he honestly didn't believe he had
ever had a better meal. It wound up with blueberry pie and
cigars....
26th
At Foggia Main the air echelon packed and moved out shortly after
breakfast. The five remaining
planes were expected by TBF to participate in the mission, but
only two of them were loaded, and they
had the wrong kind of bombs, so no mission was flown. Baggage was
loaded on trucks and personnel
piled on top of it. They got to No. 3 just in time for a mission
from this field. Lt. Egbert arrived just in
time to hop into this plane, without having gone to briefing. The
target was a road junction at
Lanciano, a few miles north of the bombline, and five of our
planes participated. The photos showed
good results, with bursts, with the road entering town well
covered. Number 3 is still muddy, and the
runway is slick, but trucks are not sticking on it as they
were....A truck went into Foggia to see “Love
Crazy” again. Another truck went on to the 12th Group hanger to
see the Naples Revue, a very good
Italian show....
27th
Principal target today ws Travinek, in Yugoslavia. Because of the
weather the alternate target, Sibenik,
was selected. Sgt. Buller says that some mix-up in the selection
of targets in the harbor caused a bad
run, and only a few bombs were dropped. Others were jettisoned and
some were brought back....The
very best rumor of the was has grown up in the past two days. The
Red Cross man in Group had it
from a colonel that a plane landed at El Aouina and Mr. Churchill
got out; that another plane landed
and Mr. Roosevelt got out' that later they were joined by two JU
88's and all left for Cairo. Another
rumor put Mr. Stalin in Cairo. Then another rumor put Ambassador
Von Papen in one of the JU 88's.
Lt. Garrett (who returned from Naples with orders for several men
to go home) says the pilot he flew
with was the pilot of th ship on which Mr. Roosevelt rode about a
week ago. Another rumor puts Mr.
Roosevelt now in Bari, and Major Bachrach says the airport there
has been closed down for two days.
Lt. Peterson says the P-40 pilots say they escorted Von Papen's
ship. To top it all off, the Red Cross
girls today said a colonel down town is taking any and all bets
that the war will be over in fifteen
days....The Red Cross girls brought donuts and coffee for the men
on the line, as promised....Major
Murray has a letter which says that 50 missions will no longer constitute
a “tour” but will simply be a
check point for physical examination. The boys are downhearted.
Lt. Wrede finished his fiftieth
today....At supper time tonight a tent burned down in a quick
burst of flame. It belonged to
communications men, who lost a lot of stuff....Lt. Hague's dog
“Jackson” frothed at the mouth, acted
peculiar, and as a result was shot by Charge of Quarters
Pitonyak....Rations were given out tonight, and
included great quantities of Lucky Strikes. Even the last men in
the line got Luckies....
28th
Target for today was Dubrovnik, Yugoslavia. Takeoff was at 0930
hours, and crews were briefed to
look for shipping in Port Gruz, just North of Dubrovnik. It was
believed that German troops were
concentrating there in preparation for an invasion of the island
recently taken by the Partisans. No
invasion craft were observed, so patterns were laid along the West
side of the port, among warehouses
and buildings. Photos proved the raid was entirely successful. All
planes returned safely....Peace
rumors are still floating around. It seems now that Major Bachrach
is reported to have actually seen
Von Papen in Tunis....Trucks went in to Foggia in the afternoon,
after a stand-down was declared for
the remainder of the day. Some men went to the bath-house where a
fine hot bath can be had. Others
spent the afternoon drinking coffee and eating cookies at the Red
Cross Snack Bar....Lt. Sather got in
his fiftieth mission. Lt. Wrede got in his 51st....
29th
Mission today was to attack two bridges at Guilianova, Italy.
Planes were over the target at 1145 hours,
and photos show bursts covering the two bridges. On coming off the
target, Lt. Cox's plane was hit by
ack-ack, and one of his engines was knocked out. He planned to
make a belly landing, but discovered a
fighter field just North of Termoli and landed there. He and his
crew were back safely in the squadron
by supper-time, and the ship is considered reparable....Lt. Over
made his fiftieth mission today....S-2
and the Orderly Room are popular places, being in the only
buildings available, and having a couple of
home-made stoves. Lights are being placed in most of the tents
now, however, and perhaps there will
be more staying-at-home hereafter....Scads of Christmas packages
have arrived, and Nelson is working
double time. They always seem to arrive about nightfall....On the
Russian front, Gomel has
fallen....Trucks went to Foggia to see “The Amazing Mr. Williams”
at the Red Cross Little
Theater....For supper, each man had one pork-chop, the first since
coming overseas 9 months ago....
A mission was scheduled for this morning, but it was canceled at
about the hour for Squadron Alert.
For a few hours no other planes were in the air around the field,
and the day was clear and bright.
More rumors sprang up as to the reasons. Some said that four days
armistice had been declared for
settling up the discussions. When some formations flew over, it
was suggested that they might be
carrying leaflets, but the majority of opinion was that they were
carrying steel and not paper. Reason
for the stand-down was given as bad weather over the front. In the
evening, two mission were
scheduled for the next day....Show at the Flagello was “The
Amazing Mrs. Halliday” with Deanna
Durbin. It has been decided to try to show an outdoor movie in the
Squadron this week. If the heavy
winds which sprang up shortly after supper are to be an every-day
occurrence, plans will have to be
changed....Lt. Hague is getting together a small Officers Club in
the building next to S-2, with gravel
on the floor and a real G-I pot bellied stove, the first in the
squadron. The Enlisted Men's club will be
in a farm building a short distance from the area. At a formation
(for payday) this afternoon, Sgt.
Parkins mentioned that the 12th Air Force was moving to Foggia,
and would be very strict on matters of
dress and military courtesy....More packages in tonight. Santa
Claus is really coming in....The feeling
is that we will probably be here for the rest of the winter, so we
might as well make ourselves
comfortable....
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
December 1943
[Transcriber's note: Some entries are truncated. Please see the
original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Lt. Clifford Swearingen, 487th BS.
Two targets were originally scheduled for today. Bad weather
canceled the first, at 0930. Takeoff for
the second was 1430, and the target was a pinpointed area just
east of the Garigliano River, near S.
Ambrogio, Italy. The 487th placed their bombs near the river, in
the Western part of the pinpointed area,
which was about tow miles long and a half mile or so wide. No
mention was made of what was
contained within the area, but it is presumed that it was a strong
point, since it was right on the
line....All planes returned safely, only several bursts of A/A
were observed, and they were directed at a
plane straggling because it was loaded with 8 wing bombs and
couldn't keep up. Two runs were made
by the formation over the target, but this plane decided not to
try it a second time and came home with
its bombs....The Ready Room (Officers Club) got under way tonight
with a very smoky stove. It was
time to go to bed when the heat got to functioning. A good poker
game resulted in transferring many pay
checks to Lt. McCabe's account....Lt. Sherbourne finished his
fiftieth mission. Since fifty missions are
now considered merely a check point, and all processing of men
going home has been temporarily
frozen by a telegram from General Spaatz, it is not know whether
he will go back to the States....Apple
pie for supper. Creamed chicken and cranberry sauce for
dinner....The town of Foggia is badly bombed
– more than any town we have seen. Many of the buildings appear to
have fallen down from slight
concussion, being so old and poorly constructed....Lts. Garret and
Loysen have gone back to the
States....They want to hit the 1st Air Force, if possible....
2nd
Two missions today, both to the same target which was bombed
yesterday. All bombs landed in the
target area in the morning and in the afternoon, and both raids
were considered very successful. There
was no enemy opposition at all, and all planes returned safely.
Lt. McCabe reported that great artillery
barrages - “they looked like bomb patterns” - were in progress.
There were some fifty dive bombers in
the vicinity, and the A-20's laid a cross on our afternoon
pattern. Report has it that a formation every
five minutes bombed the same area today....NATOUSA headquarters
has sent the Squadron an official
report of burial of Lt. Sidney Ormsbee. The date of burial was 22
Aug 43, and the place 2 miles NE
Faro, Sicily....The Commanding General of the 12th Air Force has
written a letter commending the B-
25's in this area for their strategic work in the Balkans. Special
mention is made of the Sofia and
Athens raids....The Flagello in town presented “The Naples Revue,”
one of the best stage shows to
date. Music was very good, with excellent individual performers,
especially the piano player and the
xylophone player. It was good to see the reflection of colored
lights in the chromium instruments
again. The vocalists sang in English, but whether they had an
inkling of what they were singing is a
doubtful matter. A young male sang “Jeepers-Creepers” which must have
given any interpreter the fits.
The
Chek have met in the
Roosevelt and Churchill have left
3rd
Main target for today was the marshaling yards at Sebinik, in
Yugoslavia. Takeoff was at 1130 and our
planes were over the target at 1245. The marshaling yards were not
hit, but bombs were dropped on
port installations and small craft in the harbor. There was some
ack-ack, but no fighters. All planes
returned safely....
Roosevelt, Churchill, and Chiang Kai Chek. Our rumor has so far
proved correct. We're wondering
about Von Papen and the two JU88's....Eugene Hobart, gunner with
Capt. Flack when ship No. 465
went down near Messina on August 16, has been announced as a
prisoner of the Germans....Photos of
today's raid show two fair sized vessels being completely covered
by bomb bursts in the harbor....A
cinema was held in the Squadron area, outdoors, tonight - “The
Kansan” with Richard Dix. About a
hundred men attended, although it go pretty cold before the last
cowboy bit the dust....T/Sgt. King is in
charge of the Enlisted Men's club, which is located in one of the
farm buildings close by. It is small but
cozy....combat crews have received some very fine bed rolls.
Combat men have had trouble sleeping,
and most of them have been rising early, but for the past two
mornings, several have been late for
breakfast, something heretofore unheard of....Red Cross served
donuts and Java out on the line this
afternoon....Collections have been made from officers and men for
a food fund. Lt. Linthicum and Lt.
Farley plan to scrounge for more holiday food....Men returning
from the British hospitals lately are
dissatisfied with the treatment received there. The rations were
worse than those received in our
squadron, the tents were cold, and the gonorrhea patients not only
received no treatment (they say) but
were called out on work call.
4th
No mission today. Had an hour’s standby in the morning, but a
stand-down was declared in the
afternoon....Rumor has it that the nurses who were lost in a DC-3
on the day Lt. Cox bailed out of his
ship have been located in Albania, protected by Partisans or
someone....A road is being put in
connecting our field with the main San Sevro highway. It is being
made of brick and stone from
bombed buildings in Foggia. This rubble is laid down whole and
then crushed in place by large rollers.
It is not yet in use, but is put down rather rapidly. About 100
yards per day....The field is getting taxi
strips and “hard stands” of portable steel. It makes a great noise
when used. The work is progressing
rapidly, and is being done by British....Group headquarters is
about 5 miles from the 487th Squadron
Area....Many of the men have bought chickens, pigs, and turkeys
privately, and plan to save them for
the holidays. Their tents look like barnyards....Captain
Meriwether is ill and confined to his tent.
Perhaps a touch of malaria.
5th
Target for today was to be Aquilla, Italy, whose marshaling yards
were once before a target of the 487th.
Due to weather conditions, the formation returned with
bombs....Lt. Rosenberg has returned from Bari
with tall tales of the bombing there. Twenty-five JU-88's came
over early in the evening, and dropped
their bombs almost without warning. Some fifteen ships were sunk.
An ammunition ship exploded
like fireworks, and an oil tanker shook the country for miles
around when she went off. There must
have been at least a thousand casualties. One Liberty ship (“She
held up pretty well under three hits”)
went down with all the equipment for several complete American
hospitals intended for the Foggia
area. The nurses are here, however, and the officers of the 487th
are planning a dance for the holidays.
Two carloads of combat crew members left today for Naples and the
rest camp on the Isle of Capri.
They will stay a week, and will have an automobile at their
disposal....The photo of 7K dropping
bombs near the Volturno has appeared in the November issue of
Aeroplane, a British publication. The
legend says Mitchell bombers have graduated, because of wing
bombs, from the light medium to
medium class....Christmas packages are pouring in, most of them in
good condition, nearly all
containing food, but some containing weird items such as
neckties....
6th
No mission today, because of weather....Wilkerson has received his
promotion to Captaincy....The new
sleeping bags are really the cats pajamas....The rates run rampant
in these barns at night. They also slip
around in the tents, eating candy bars and otherwise enjoying
Christmas....Rumor has it that a new
bomber command, the 12th , may become part of the 15th Air Force.
Further rumor says that the 15th Air
Force will move to Russian bases, there to bomb Japan. The meeting
of Pres. Roosevelt, Churchill, and
Stalin in Teheran, Persia, may have touched off this story of air
bases in Russia....We are evidently
expecting an inspection by someone above the rank of leaf-colonel.
Slit trenches are everywhere (very
new) and there is a great cry for fire extinguishers in every
tent. Even the mess hall has a row of shrubs
newly set at the officers entrance. Drilling takes place in the
mud just across the road, and officers are
reading up on how to properly execute a Military Correspondence.
It looks like a good
winter....Outdoor movie again tonight. Weather was fairly warm,
and fairly dry, and there was a moon.
If it had been a good picture (“Night Club Scandals” with
long-dead John Barrymore and equally longdead
Lynn Overman) everything would have been O.K.....On the coast near
Termoli, some 40 or 45
weired looking trucks whizzed down the highway, paused delicately
at waters edge, faltered daintily,
settled out on the brine and floated out in the Adriatic....
7th
Today was the second anniversary of Perl Harbor. “It doesn't seem
like two years,” said some; “like a
lifetime,” said others....Today's target was the road bridge
across the river Pescaro, in the town of
Pescaro, Italy. Takeoff was at 1155, in 9-plane formation. The
pattern was placed just ahead of and
south of the bridge, no squadron hitting it. Ack-ack was black and
red, heavy, moderately intense, and
accurate. Lt. Forrester got a scratched face from ack-ack which
broke throught his windshield. A piece
stuck in the bill of his cap, and he has it retrieved and
saved....The 310th Group has been split and
reformed. Two Squadrons are in Corsica, another is in Africa on
patrol work, and a third has been
stripped to receive all new B-25G planes and crews from the
States. Six crews and planes came in to
the 340th today, and the 487th received two officers, 10 enlisted
men and one plane....Show tonight at
the Flagello in Foggia was “amateur night” and a round of fun for
all. The Engineers Band was good, a
hillbilly ensemble was called out again and again, and the winner
of the prize was a poor fellow for
whom every one felt embarrassed and sorry. “Truth and
Consequences” drew a lot of laughs,
especially when some guy was forced to strip to the skin. His
gestures (automatic) when he got down
to this underwear – sort of self protection – were a
scream....Turkey for supper tonight. The new
purchasing committee scrounged far and wide, managed to buy
thirty-six turkeys of small weight. It
gave out before everyone was served. There were new potatoes,
dressing, cranberry sauce (a bit liquid)
olives, and chocolate plain cake......The straw-filled mattress
covers are proving very satisfactory for
keeping out the cold. The farmer of the hill fills them for a pack
of cigarettes, and glad to do it....The
Navy announces an attack on the Marshall Island in the Pacific.
Russian and Italian fronts are
progressing slowly. Crews today reported heavy fighting North of
the Sangro....
8th TOP
Mission today was to bomb and destroy the marshaling yards at
Aquila, Italy. These yards were once
before the target for 487th bombs, but cloud cover at that time
saved them. They are part of one of the
four main supply channels for Axis forces in Italy. 487th bombs
could not be accurately identified in
the photos, but returning crews were confident they dealt a lot of
misery to the yards, and the photos
show hits....Show tonight at the Flagello in town was “Five Who
Came Back” prefaced by the chants of
a group of Negro GI's. Latter were very good on “Old MacDonald Had
a Farm.”....12th AF has
forbidden the wearing of flying jackets in Foggia. This will
probably cut down on attendance at shows
at night. 12th AF doesn't have to ride seven miles back to camp in
an open truck....Plans have been
made for the officers of the 487th to have a party for the nurses
of the 61st and 55th Hospitals on
December 19th and 24th....The new men from the 310th like the chow
we have here. “like the 310th never
dreamed of having.” Of course, they came in just as our purchasing
committee was beginning to get on
the ball.....The engineers stationed hereabouts have a lot of
esprit de corps. They sing and have a great
deal of fun -- “We're the boys who make the noise in the
armeeeee.”.....Plans are underway for a
baseball team for the 487th. There are already many volunteers.
And a number of men are interested in
a Glee Club which will start out with Christmas Carols.....Morale
in the squadron seems to be as high
as it has ever been, despite the mud and cold. Adversity seems to
raise rather than lower morale......
9th
Mission today was to bomb the marshaling yards at Terni, Italy.
Returning crews reported that a few
bombs might have fallen in the yards, but the majority of them
overshot....Rumor has it that the light
bombers (A-20's etc) will leave the Tactical Bomber
Force.....Ordnance is confused about the new plans
to organize an Ordnance Company separate from the Group.
Apparently there will be four officers who
will perform all the administrative as well as operational duties
of the company, and the same men who
now do nothing but load bombs will be cooking, standing guard,
doing paper work, and otherwise
taking care of themselves. All their equipment will come from the
Group, which is very short on many
items, such as typewriters. They will separate physically from the
Group on our next move. Lt.
Doakes will probably command the unit.....The PX has been set up
in a tent of its own, and will attempt
to function as a permanent store, if possible, instead of having
“ration day” and its long line.....Phone
service is very poor because of the work progressing on roads, but
the roads themselves are doing
nicely. A black coating of coke or something has smoothed out the
crushed-brick surface.....
10th
No mission today, although the weather here was clear in the
morning. Rains came at nightfall, and the
area was soon slick and covered with a sheet of water.....Cpl.
Bartkus speaks to a young friend entering
the Service: “It is pretty hard to be in the wrong if you are
patriotic at heart.”....Public relations says
pilot replacement have less education, generally, than the men
whom they are replacing.....It is noticed
by some observant men that President Roosevelt's program for
helping service men consists of short term
aids, and says nothing of a strong economic system which will
return the soldiers to permanent
jobs in industry....More mail and packages today. Many packages
include items which come through
our PX rations, and recipients are disappointed.....One man even
received some canned vienna
sausages....Lt. Sumner visited today. He is with the 3rd
Reconnaissance Group of Colonel Roosevelt's
Wing, which is now stationed at San Severo. He likes his new job as
Group Statistical Officer.....A new
B-17 wing is moving to Satellite No. 2 from Africa....Rumor: that
Lord Haw-Haw says Air Forces in
Foggia area are going to “get it” this week if they don't “lay
off.”..Fifteen days have elapsed and war
isn't yet over in this theater. The Colonel loses....Lt. Coyle and
Lt Myles went to Bari in a jeep
yesterday. They picked up two Italian girls, prostitutes, who
confided that they had been run out of
Barleta, because they were “malada” and were on their way to
Trani. The jeep soon passed a cart
containing three other girls, and of course stopped. There was a
lot of gay greeting, and these sisters of
sin piled on the jeep, and all went on to Trani. At that town, the
girls forced Lt. Coyle to stop by a
cemetery where a funeral was in progress. Each of the girls broke
into tears. They controlled
themselves after a short while and went on into town. There they
introduced the Lts. to another
member of their great sorority, a large woman who was fond of
Americans. She had pictures of her
many lovers, and showed on to Lt. Coyle. The fine American
pictured was as black a coal. Ella Logan
is expected in Foggia on Christmas Eve....
11th
No mission today, because of weather. No rain, but dull
skies.....Capt. Meriwether is in the hospital,
but Lt. Linthicum, his room-mate, refuses to carry his Christmas
packages to him. Capt. Meriwether is
extremely generous, and would undoubtedly give all his Christmas
cheer away if his packages were
taken to him.....Beginning Monday, men going into the shows in
Foggia must wear their O.D.'s. One
man says he won't dress to go in to see even Betty Grable in
“Coney Island” (one of the few first-class
pictures we have seen over here). He says he wouldn't dress to go
in to see Betty Grable herself,
undressed....The mud here is the slickest we have encountered. The
water refuses to sink in. Roads are
rough, rutted, and slick as grease. The new metal taxi-strips,
almost completed, are already sinking
somewhat....”Coney Island” was preceded tonight by our old friends
from Catania, the colored boys of
the 8th Ordnance Depot, who presented a good show. Jokes were
bawdy. Some Southern boys were
not used to having dirty stories told by Negroes in the presence
of white women, but no particular
comment was heard. Probably on one thought about it. The Officers
of the 487th have engaged the
orchestra for their dance on the 18th....Sgt. Snaper and Sgt.
Bronstein have almost single-handedly
erected the Enlisted Men's Club room. It is one of the small
roofless rooms of our community barn,
covered with a tarpaulin. They have hauled in white gravel for the
floor and have installed a stove and
two lights. It should be fairly popular, especially for
gambling....Enlisted Men do no work very well
together on a voluntary basis for the erection of a club. They
expect it to be erected for them (perhaps
justifiably). The officers pitch in more eagerly to get theirs
together.....
12th
Stand-down today.....A hall has been procured for the officers
dance – the ball-room of the Palazzo del
Governo in Foggia – after considerable search. Captain Bugbee and
others have hone to Naples
looking for liquor, food, decorations, etcetera. They may go on to
Malta, or perhaps to Algiers.....Red
Alert all tonight. The switchboard phoned to say that a raid on
Foggia was expected. Perhaps because
of the big full moon, glinting so prettily in the mud and slush in
our area, and lighting up the movie
screen so much that the show in the area had to be
canceled.....There is a terrific concentration of air
power in the Foggia Area, and it looks as if more may come
in....The new 310th men speak highly of
this Group. They say the 340th is really on the ball....No man can
make a tent-full of soldiers quiet
down and listen like Bing Crosby. His records represent something
– beer halls, juke boxes, cigarette
haze, sentiment. It's nice that the British like him as well as we
do, for it's their
we usually get....The Germans are throwing everything they have
into the fight in
rough for our boys.....Sgt. Dillingham and Pinion had their photos
taken upon the completion of their
55th mission.....Packages mailed in the first part of October
reached home in the middle of November.
Not bad service at all.....
13th
The squadron got ready for a mission this morning, but it was
canceled just as the trucks pulled up to
Group Operations for briefing....The men, or many of them, are
disconsolate about having to do more
than fifty missions. One Squadron, we hear, has organized a “Fly
Till Death” Club. One man says his
country has let him down....San Severo, located about 15 miles
north of here, is a pleasant little place,
unbombed. It may become a bigger favorite than Foggia, which is
becoming too much of a
headquarters town. You can tell the people there and in Foggia are
fresh from Africa because they
speak of “francs” and then hastily correct into lires.....We hear
that the B-17s were the ones who
wrecked Foggia – in about 15 minutes.....Everyone is looking
forward to spending a few days in
Naples. Swede Holmstrom and others went to Naples and engaged 12
rooms as a “rest” camp. for war weary
mechanics. Bring your own bedding.....The mess hall is doing
rather well these days – with
fresh potatoes and cabbage frequently.....
14th
Target for today was the marshaling yards at Station DiOrti,
Italy. Returning crews reported poor
results.....Rumor has it that we may move into the Naples area
soon. There are further rumors
regarding the formation of the 12th Bomber Command.....At the
Flagella in town, a magician (Italian)
did a couple of good numbers, after which James Cagney became
enamored of three elderly ladies in
“Johnny Come Lately.”.....Interest in football is almost nil. It's
difficult to find out who is playing in
the Bowls this year, or even whether there will be any bowl
games.....Jeeps are being lost right and left
in other Squadrons these days. Some say the Fighter Groups are
swiping them and that every officer in
the 57th F.G. has personal transportation. It seems hardly fair to
court-martial a man for losing a vehicle
when it is stolen by someone else in another outfit. In one local
case, however, the jeep was not
immobilized at all.....Boxes are being placed around the Squadron
for contributions for the Italian kids
Christmas party being given by the red Cross. Candy and money are
being donated rather
generously.....Several men are away on pass to Naples. Returning
officers from Capri say the rest camp
is really sump’n. Meals in bed, bar open all night.....
15th TOP
Target for today was the north airdrome at Mostar, Yugoslavia.
JU-87's and training planes of the
German Air Force, being used against the Partisans, were reported
to be stationed on the field, and the
487th was given the job of covering the center area part of the
south dispersal area with fragmentation
and demolition bombs. Photos show the task was well performed, and
the total dispersal area was well
covered by the trhee squadrons participating in the
mission.....The Partisans are now favored more than
the Chetiniks. Advices say that Mihailovich himself shows no signs
of disaffection for th allied cause,
but that some of his satellite units have been known to cooperate
with the Germans. Tito is at the head
of the partisan, a fighting force of 200,000 men with headquarters
at Jajce. The towns of Livno,
Bugojino, and Glamoc are in Partisan hands and have been
recommended as emergency landing
grounds.....Lt. Badgett's ship, 7S, received two holes in today's
mission.....We are told that the new
Bomber Command Headquarters unit will receive most of its enlisted
and officer personnel from the
field, and that recommendations have been made from this Squadron
of several persons....News reports
only infrequently use the term “avengers Group” in describing our
activities. They generally say “A B-
25 Unit.” Sgt. Hickey says 12th Air Force may soon allow the full
use of “340th Group” in publicity.....
16th
Mission today was to bomb shipping in the harbor of Zara, Yugoslavia.
Three squadrons went over,
pasting the harbor pretty thoroughly. The 487th was given credit
by the Group Photo Interpreter for
hitting a ship. His report reads: “The pattern laid by 487th
Squadron started just south of Bora Cove
and extended across the large cargo vessel (520 ft). A direct hit
near the bow caused a large explosion.
Obliques taken as the formation left the target show numerous
fires on both the peninsula and the area
east of the harbor.” Only he spelled it “harbour,” because the report
was mimeographed in the Argus,
edited by British Capt. Simpson.....Capt. Meriwether is back from
the hospital. He says he didn't get
enough to eat....Capt. Parsons says elements of General
Eisenhower's staff will move to Foggia.....
17th
Stand-down today....Lt. Farley's band went in search of liquor for
the officers party. Such a bunch of
people these Eyetie bootleggers are. One procrastinating lady,
surrounded by numerous children
including a shy maiden of sixteen years who snuck in and out of
the room , said she would have
promised maraschino “domane.” Upon being pressed, she went
outside, returned to say she could
hatch out a batch in two hours. Bottles were taken in to the
cognac dealer at two o'clock and were
ready, with labels and colored tinfoil wraps at five. The Vermouth
dealer had his already bottled,
appearing to be a much slicker promoter ( in trench coat and
pork-pie hat) than the dining-room
operators. A couple of beardless lads approached the buying party,
took them away to an upstairs
bedroom where he kept his supply of Spumante originale. The cork
failed to pop (everyone was pained
and hurt) and the liquid on the inside was 5-cent-per-litre new
wine, being sold for two dollars per
bottle. Lt. Farley received permission from AMGOT (sometimes
called
of scarce cheese, but had it stolen from him ten minutes
later....The many children in Cerignola were
surprisingly well-formed and good looking....Show in Foggia at the
Flagello was Bob Hope in “You've
Got Me Covered.” “Stranger in town” with Frank Morgan showed at
the Red Cross little Theater.....A
formation was drummed up in a hurry today, and General Cannon
awarded handsome medals to those
who had them coming. Lt. McCabe received the Soldier's Medal. Lt.
Sherbourne was given the
(with all the little ribbons and lapel pins). Lt. Gavin's
Lt. Wrede took Lt. Fonda's Silver Star. Sgt. Pinion took his
to accept his Soldier's Medal.....Our front yard has become a
bombing range. This morning, a A-20
dropped a few practice bombs not far away, causing considerable
nervousness.....
18th
A stand-down today made preparations for the officers dance
considerably easier. Lt. Hague borrowed
the 489th piano and officers club stools and glasses. He finished
up the bar, made of glass bricks from
the unfinished aircraft factory in Foggia, and placed colored
lights outside. The afternoon was
occupied with popping corn in the Ready Room and making sandwiches
in the mess hall. Lt. May
oversaw operations. Lt. Wolkoff sliced bread, Lt. Samuels mixed
spam, cheese, almonds, and homemade
mayonnaise....The party was genteel and a success. About twenty
nurses were present, some in
evening dresses. They looked chilly in the unheated hall, with
their bare backs. There were only a
handful of drunks, most of whom kept their distance. The Spanish
brandy disappeared quickly and was
supplemented by raw cognac, which was not very good.....The nurses
were picked up in jeeps, and
froze on the way to and from the dance. But they seemed to have a
good time.....The siren swung out
several times during the evening, scaring the natives, and the
Chaplain made the announcement about a
possible air-raid, but nothing developed to disturb the
party.....Group is planning a dance for the 27th.
This will come after our second party on the 24th.....Men back
from Naples report that the place is
crowded with GI's, and that Italians from six to sixty are trying
to sell spaghetti, beefsteak, and
senorignas in that order of importance.....Lt. Linthicum came back
with several cows this afternoon –
enough beef for seven meals. They're tough, and will probably be
used only in hamburger.....
19th
Today's target was the marshaling yards at Terni, Italy, 487th led
the 489th and 486th on a good approach,
but our Squadron overshot the yards. 486th hit squarely, and the
489th hit the tracks east of the choke
point. No enemy opposition at all was encountered. One ship got a
hole in the upper turret, probably
from a bomb spinner, and another ship received a similar hole in
the nose glass. All planes returned
safely....A major who has his office near the dance hall used last
night called this morning to complain.
He said the place was a mess, that furniture had been ripped
apart, people sick everywhere, mud on
floors and walls, and his grief case was strewn all over the
ballroom floor. Investigation revealed that
someone had indeed got sick in the Colonel's office (his initials
are Moose Sather, we hear) but that the
rest of the story was exaggerated. The brief case was left on a
shelf in the office, and had been turned
over to the MP's by Captain Parsons. The great quantities of mud
were were only tracks brought in by
dirty feet, the story of a torn-open cabinet was obviously
fabricated by the embarrassed major, who had
secret materials in the brief case. Only good was spoken of the
party by everyone who was there,
including the women and the invited wheels.....It's going to be a
problem getting girls for the Christmas Eve
party. All the hospitals are planning Christmas of their own. The
Group party for the 27th has been
canceled (it was decided the hall is too small) and the 488th is
taking over the hall and band engaged by
the committee. This is wonderful, because a dance given by the
Group would ruin our reputation
forever....Special Services (with the aid of Otto Stellato, who
suggested it) has been taking orders for
Christmas liquor for the enlisted men. They've ordered about five
hundred dollars worth, and have
turned over the cash. No guarantees of quality were made, and this
point was stressed.....All our planes
were moved today to the far side of the runway, where steel
hardstands have been built. The line
moved yesterday.
20th
Principal target for today was to have been 27 ships observed in
the harbor at Travenik, Yugoslavia.
Reconnaissance this morning couldn't find them, however, and the
mission was canceled shortly before
takeoff....Captain Baldwin, 12th Air Force Historian, calls the
487th War Diary “a little gem.”.....Combat
crews are being supplied with new escape belts – canvas belts
inside of which are a silk map of the
Mediterranean area and a small compass....No one knows yet whether
we are going to have Turkey for
Christmas. But no one is excited. That's how much we trust Uncle
Sam....Lts. Duthie, Weiss, F/O
Anderson, Sgts. Morthimer, Erceg, and Chalmers have been
transferred to the 68th Reconnaissance
Group, and left today....The Squadron was called together this
afternoon at three and given lectures on
sex and the articles of war....Many of the officers who slept past
breakfast yesterday, due to the party,
rushed into Foggia for coffee at the Red Cross. It reminded one of
old times in the States. Hamburger
at
acclaimed Mess Officer. His friends have voted him in, with
placards, crooked ballot boxes, and
everything else except free beer....Sample questions which S-2 is
asked: When was the Bonus Bill
passed? When was the 18th Amendment repealed? When did the
Sicilian campaign begin and end?
What's at the show tonight? What position did Winston Churchill
hold in the last war? Was there any
mail today? When's pay call?....
21th
We had stand-by until mid-afternoon today, and later discovered we
were supposed to be on stand down....
Rumor says we are going to move to the Naples area soon because
the Strat boys want this
field....One man has been writing Christmas Greetings on bombs:
“Merry Christmas from Sugar” etc. The
bitterest pill for ht soldier to swallow seems to be his wife's or
girl friend's joining the Army. They
can't imagine how she can remain virtuous....”The boys over there
think it's all glory flying. I get up
there and I think how nice it would be to pull permanent KP in the
States, or to be popping soda at
Walgreen's. Back on the ground my chest puffs out a little, but it
goes down when I see my name on
the crew list again.” A bath truck goes in to town every afternoon
at two o'clock, and afterwards drops
by the Red Cross for coffee and donuts, to delay the long ride
back in the cold. It's cozy and
comforting to be clean and to sit and have a cup of hot
java....Information comes in that the Germans
are jittery along the Italian coast south of Ancona, expecting a
seaborne invasion....Men returning from
Naples say it was the 24th Division which was hit by the 489th
Squadron when they bombed the
Volturno instead of the Garigliano river the first of the month.
The whole 340th is getting the blame. A
number of vehicles were ruined, and there were a number of
casualties....From Algiers comes a story
that a third of General Eisenhower's WACS are going to England, a
third to India, and a third to
Naples....
22nd TOP
Stand-down again today- because of weather....Enlisted men are
placing orders with Otto Stellato for
Christmas wine and cognac....Lt. May says he has been invited by an
Italian family to have Christmas
dinner on a “you bring the sugar” basis. He turned down the
invitation nicely, figuring he'd eat better
on that glad day than the Eyties would....The officer's party
scheduled for the 24th has been canceled,
due to the fact that it looked as if no women were going to be
present....
23rd
Stand-down again today....Out of a clear sky the Quartermaster
issued dressed chickens to the
Squadron, and the mess hall boys fried them. It was our first
fried chicken, and was wonderful. It
didn't go around for everyone, and steaks (somewhat tough) were
fried for those who came late. Back
from a long siege of AWOL comes Lt. Mayer. Like many others who
finished fifty missions, he felt his
flying days were over for the nonce (or something), so he took off
for Naples, Algiers, and points
south, staying about two weeks. Such action has more or less been
condoned in the past, but the axe
may suddenly fall on Lt. Mayer....Into the mess hall tonight came
Capt. Bayless, giving forth with a
loud “Ten-shut.” Cause for all this was not the presence of
General Arnold, but Major Parsons, newly
wearing his gold leaves....We hear tell that General Cannon is
taking over the 12th Air Force, and that
promotions are frozen until January 10th, when he will be able to
sign them. Promotions are definightly
in order in our Squadron, which is outranked in other groups, such
as the 12th....The parachute boys
visited one of the ack-ack units tonight and drank their spirits
until the wee hours of the morning. “My
British Buddy” (who gets liquor rations)....Wine and cognac orders
taken by Otto Stellato were
delivered today. The transactions were something of a headache,
since records were askew, and
additional dimes had to be collected to take care of breakage. Spumanti
and vermouth were the
favorites, with only a few bottles of cognac ordered....
24th
The bulletin board carried the following information this morning:
“Attention!!!! Actung!!!!
Attention!!!! The German Headquarters in Italy today broadcast the
fact that it has been particularly
annoyed and distressed by the action of the 340th Bombardment
Group. It states that this particular
group has shown extreme vindictiveness in its attack on the noble
German arms and that such activities
are never allowed to go unavenged. German Headquarters further
stated that Christmas was a fitting
time for retribution to overtake this Group and that we could
expect a visit from the Teutonic Santa
Claus carrying a sackful of bombs. If you have not dug your slit
trench as yet, dig it now because you
know Santa Claus originated in Germany. S-2: Note: This is
probably typical German propaganda but
let your conscience be your guide and do not get too drunk.
(signed) Gilmer Meriwether, Jr. Captain,
Air Corps, S-2.....Christmas Eve was rather wet. Considerable very
good cognac and fairly good
vermouth got its just deserts. And yet there were a number of men
who went to
be heard singing “Cats on the roof-top” at a very late hour
tonight....President Roosevelt's speech was
received here, and the change of command was interesting....
25th
The 340th Group was given a stand-down in advance today. Looked as
if there might be no bomb
dropping on Christmas Day, but in the morning the 17's came over
in formation, going
someplace....The morning was blasty, with showers, and cold. The
sun just peeked out now and then
throughout the day. Breakfast was from 7:30 to 8:30, and lunch was
forgotten. Sgt. Blume, Sgt.
Schwartz, Lt. Hague, and other officers and men spent the morning
decorating the mess hall. Tables
were covered with paper donated by the parachute section (on
condition that they get the leftover
turkey). Green leaves and pine branches were hung on tent ropes in
the ceiling, and a tree (a long
gangling ornamental cedar that must have come from a neighboring
cemetery) was decorated with
scraps of green and red crepe-paper, and chains of white paper like
those we made in first grade. Sgt.
Schwartz did up a large Christmas package, with candles and Santa
Clauses topping it. Lt. Hague erected a
green and red crepe-paper sign “Merry Christmas.” Tables held
candles, green leaves, and platters of
hard candy, almonds, and dried figs. Supper itself came at 4:00
o'clock. The turkey was very good, the
dressing was good, the fresh mashed potatoes were good. Desert was
apple pie with American cheese
and coffee....Lt. Boston brought a nurse to dinner, and Chaplain
Cooper was present....The wine served
before and after the dinner was a present from Lt. Col.
Tokaz....Ella Logan's show was preceded by a
trio of colored boys who poured out some good boogie woogie. Ella
sang well, and the accordionist
with her was obviously expert. The tap dancer was somewhat
tight....Our first Christmas overseas
found many of the boys blue and wanting to go home, but it was one
they will not soon forget....
26th
No mission today....Word came in this afternoon that the Squadron
ground echelon would move on
Tuesday. Rather short notice....We hear tell that Catania is
really the town these days – Street cars,
taxis, good-looking women with silk stockings and fur coats.
Cigarettes are selling there at eight
dollars a carton....The evening show truck still has quite a few
occupants, in spite of increasingly cold
weather....Lt. Gen. Mark Clark has promised his men that this will
be the “last combat Christmas.”
General Eisenhower is quoted as saying “we will win the war in
1944.” Captain Meriwether says
Germany will ask for an armistice within three months after a
Western invasion....The air medal is no
longer to be given for five combat missions. It will require some
additional outstanding action. Lt.
May wants to know how you get the Good Conduct Medal....The Red
Cross has moved its Foggia club
into larger quarters next door, and is performing a needed service
in selling sandwiches (almost
amounting to a meal) and coffee at a sum just large enough to
cover the cost of hiring help....Morale
has been ruined in the Squadron by the return of promotion papers
for apparently trivial reasons.
Promotions in the 9th Air Force came through promptly, but there
has been a great deal of technical
difficulty recently in the 12th Air Force. Papers were returned
once because promotions were put in at
AUS(AC); these same ones were corrected to AUS, but have been
returned for correction to AUS(A C).
Lt. Gellman, the man who was prepared to volunteer for a second
tour, and whose morale has always
been the highest in the Squadron, is now ready to throw in the
towel after the fiftieth mission....
27th
No mission again today....Packing up began today when the trucks
from the 306th Service Group came
in around noon. We have more transportation than we have ever
had.. Everything is being moved,
including floors, fire-wood, coal. We are moving to a new field
just North of Pompeii, and no one
expects to find anything useful there. This is our first back-ward
move – backward because we will be
farther South there than we are here. Rumor has it that the whole
Tactical Bomber Force will move
into the Naples area, and give the Foggia area to Strategic. Lt.
Hollis says that Group headquarters is
engaging a large building in Pompeii for living quarters. This is
fortunate for the Squadron because it
means that one of the Squadrons will now get he best tent
area....The Ordnance Company is now
administratively separate from the Group, and will probably be
physically separate at the new base. Lt
Jung says we are all moving to England soon....Lt. Willhite is
wearing double tracks and is still
conversing with people. His mustache is gone, in case anyone has
been wondering what’s wrong with
his face....Lt Winebrenner has returned from a long stay in the
hospital at Naples....
28th
After a very poor meal with the 489th Squadron, crews took off at
1255 to bomb a bridge on the
important Cassino-Rome highway (pinpoint G706260). Because of
clouds and mechanical difficulty in
the lead plane, the 486th brought their bombs back, but the 489th
and 487th went on. Neither hit the
target. The 487th pattern fell Southeast of the town of Isola,
with hits on the road and railroad, and
doing some good. Flak was Heavy, very intense, and very accurate.
Eight of our nine planes were
holed with from 2 to 12 holes, with four of them put out of
commission for a few days. The bursts of
A/A came so close that crews could easily see the little balls of
fire in the bursting shells. Two planes
of the 489th made emergency landings in Naples, and the pilot of
one of the planes, Lt. Ingles died of
wounds....Briefing this A.M. was at 1155 in the
board is set up at one end, on a platform, and bomb containers are
arranged in front for seats. 487th
came early and waited. No tenseness could be observed among the
crew members. It might have been
a meeting to vote on the establishment of an officer's club,
except that such a meeting would have had
more of a “special” atmosphere. Men sat in bunches of three or
four, smoked, talked, etc. As the tents
filled, words became less audible, with only now and then a phrase
working itself out over the hub-bub:
“I-don't-want-to-sit-by-you-you-got-a-running-nose.” “What say
there?” “Hear what he called you?”
“Well, this guy spells his name exactly like you.” “Tenant
Pitkin!” “Got any chewing gum, George?”
Some don't talk – just sit. One or two look at their watches,
probably out of habit. The dress of each
man is different: there are flying caps, garrison caps, service
caps, and a considerable number of
tousled coiffures flying loose in the wind. Somebody in a flying
jacket has decided he's going to see
for himself whether you can get a parachute on over it....Major Garsky
on the stand: Primary target, a
bridge at G706250. Ya got that? First alternate, a pinpoint at
G853210. We get that to be bout in
middle Cassino. 2nd alternate, 489th gets road block at....Route
out, to Capua and then left of main road
to target. The Navigation officer, not on the platform, can hardly
be heard. Run's almost East to West.
major Garsky resumes – 4465 Air Ground Shortloap, a second
release, altitude target 300 feet.
Navigators and Bombardiers will wait for the weather. Oh yes, it's
a very important target....
487th Squadron Album of
Capt. Chas. Cook
29th
No mission today....The Air Echelon is left by itself in Foggia
#3, and will join the ground echelon
when bombs and gasoline become available at the new field. There is
some talk that the runway there
is not yet completed....Lt. Winebrenner has left a generator
behind, and there are lights in the operations
and S-2. The fires there make those two places popular in the
evenings....Those who went in to town
on the bath-truck at 1400 hours stayed in town for the movie at
1900 hours (“Somewhere I'll Find You”
with Gable and Turner). Capt. Schreiner was upset....A fine new
road is being built in front of the
Squadron area, now that we are moving....Capt Wilkerson returned
tonight with orders for nearly
everyone to go home. They should be cut by tomorrow or next
day....According to the radio, Naples is
out of bounds because of an epidemic of typhus among civilians.
This is just our luck, now that we are
moving into the neighborhood.
30th
Mission today went to Falconara, where the Marshaling Yards were
the target. Takeoff was at 1155 and
nine ships of the 487th were over the target at 1400. There was a
fail run on the target, but 487th bombs
fell in the water bordering the marshaling yards....Rumor has it
that there are buildings at our new field.
This is wonderful news....Not many are up at seven o'clock for the
breakfast truck. Lt. Jung takes a
large contingent to the Red Cross for coffee. There are those who
stay for sandwiches in the afternoon,
finding their chow superior to that at the 489th....Lt Pirnie,
back from the hospital, says the Infantry lads
were cursing the Air Corps. No discipline – easy life. Then when
the announcement was made the
applications would be accepted for the Air Corps, they flocked in
with their papers....There is a great
respect in the Air Corps for the boys in the “Queen of Battle”
especially when it gets muddy and cold,
as it is now. Our comforts at the moment are very few, but they
are enough to point up the real
difficulties of the boys at the front. We have no men with frozen
toes or fingers, and at present we have
no men with oak leaf clusters to their purple heart....
Stand-down today....Lt Hammond paid off the troops at Foggia Satellite
No. 3 and made a special effort
to pay in advance those fortunate men who are pulling out today on
the first leg of their journey home.
Last night at chow orders came for the 10 or 12 men who have
finished their tours to go home. They
are excited and very happy. Lt. Sather: “I didn't sleep last
night; I know I won't sleep tonight.” Lt.
Egbert: “I'm gonna get drunked up.” A few of the bombardiers and
navigators hope to take pilot
training. An unknown wag says: “I'd rather go to West Point – it
takes three years.”...New years Eve
passed without incident in our Squadron. We had no liquor. There
was considerable gambling
(payday), and at
other parts of the field. The big guns at the front vibrated. The
ack/ack remained silent, surprisingly....
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
January 1944
[Transcriber's note: Some entries are truncated. Please see the
original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Lt. Clifford Swearingen, 487th BS.
No mission today......Turkey for dinner at four P.M. this
afternoon. Unfortunately, there was little else
to go with it except rain and cold. The 489th men say Christmas
dinner was equally depressing: they
had turkey, potatoes, peas, and rice pudding – and the turkey had
gasoline on it. We are beginning to
appreciate our mess hall more and more.....Engineering Officer
Coyle has made Captain – after
sweating out the promotion for months. Several new first
lieutenants are wearing the silver......Movie
at the Flagella was “Tennessee Johnson” with Van Heflin. It was an
interesting story of the Unightd
States vice-president who could neither read nor write until he
was an adult, as a run-away apprentice,
the man who got drunk at his inauguration. As usual, one looks at
movies more objectively over here,
where audiences are of mixed nationality. “Forget the history of
England” says Mrs. Johnson, “and
think of your won for a while.” And the line is brilliant with
meaning when the audience contains
Britishers (who probably can't understand the language, oddly
enough.)......
2nd
No mission today......Italian Unit No. 1, a song and dance show
from Bari, played to a packed house at
the Flagello tonight. Lights went out early, before the show. When
the nurses entered, on the arms of
officers, to take their seats on the floor in the center aisle,
hundreds of flashlights beamed down on
them and there were many wolf wails. the show was well received,
the chorus having two or three
attractive girls. One young blonde girl sang well, in English. Her
rendition of “Stardust” got a good
hand before and after.......Captain Coyle, Captain Schreiner, and
Captain Willhite parked their jeep in
front of a barber shop, got out to get a shave, found it gone when
they returned......Operations
announced tomorrow's move......
3rd
No mission today......Planes of the 487th departed Foggia No. 3 in
mid-morning. Trip over the snow covered
Apennines was interesting. Lt. Hammond took pictures of Mt.
Vesuvius as Lt. Jackman
buzzed the crater. They found a certain picturesque thrill in
flying over the famous mountain, listening
to “In the Mood” played on American records broadcast from
10th and is a fine L/G. The spongy volcanic ash absorbs water even
after several day's rain. The 340th
Group is quartered along a road from one town to another, in
houses from which local citizens have
been evacuated (and they don't like it.) The 487th is most
compact, all quarters except flying officers
being located together. The buildings are quaint, but dry and
warm. It is our very best break since we
have been in combat. Even the mess hall is in a building......
4th
No mission today, and late this evening Operations announced a stand-down
for a week. Explanation:
training. Capt. Meriwether says he's superstitious and thinks we
will go back to Africa, because his
wife has already heard that we are now in Africa. He says they
“knew” in the States that Colonel Mills
had gone down with his ship – before it happens......At
patrols of the Russian Army had crossed the Polish Border......Our
generator runs during the day, breaks
down when night falls......Our sections and quarters look like
stage sets. The S-2 section: housed in a
rambling building made of lava rock, with thick walls and rooms at
various levels. Steps up to the
door, a thick metal-covered affair opening into a room about 18
feet square. Domed ceiling,
fenestrated transom with ancient wood shutter. Thick rail-less
steps at left lead up to doorway to living
quarters. Walls are yellow and mottled – squares of white show
where pictures were hung. A small
blackboard is pinned against a wall – evidently the room was a
school-room. There is one window in
the rear, barred, with glass shutters. The stovepipe goes out
through a broken pane. Stove is a GI
potbelly with a pile of cut wood behind it. There are four wicker
straight chairs, bought in Sfax,
Tunisia, and dragged along with us. Two long issue file-desks and
a folding table cut the room in half.
These are littered with letters, a can, magazines, pocketbooks, a
chess game. A 8-inch radio speaker is
on the wall beside a Mercator map of the Pacific area. On this
map, on plastiseal, the Aleutians are
marked with a U.S. Flag, and arrow points to New Britain isle with
the legend “Attacked December
14th,” and various similar annotations appear near the Gilbert and
Marshall Islands. On the same wall
is a photograph board, now showing photos of General Cannon and
individuals being decorated by
him. Also on the board is a French newspaper containing a photo of
7A over Sibenik. A “flash” notice
at the bottom says “Forward Russian Patrols Cross Polish Border.”
Front wall contains large map of
the present bomb-line in Italy, with German positions listed (in
one corner of this is the typed news of
the day) and a 1:4000000 map of Europe, mainly showing the Russian
lines, but containing such
information as “Total German Planes 4854.” Side wall has a
Reference Key for 1:250,000 maps of
Italy, and a map of the Balkan area showing disposition of troops
in that area. On the floor on the right
side is a series of boxes and cases for officers mess gear, filled
with folded maps. In the rear is another
table, with shaded electric light above it, and a large gray box
containing supplies for the section.
Other items to be seen are clip boards, a typewriter, and various
items of soldier's equipment left in the
room, mostly mess-kits......
5th
The 487th Squadron Area is in the little town of Poggio Marino.
Inhabitants say the buildings bordering
the road were dynamited by the Germans. Population is poor. There
is a market place, laid out each
morning with hand-made baskets, chairs, ladders, etcetera. Baskets
of oranges and apples are displayed
prettily with green leaves. The small shops are cluttered with
cheap merchandise. The women seem to
be hardworking and cheerful, but men, young and old, appear
cynical and dismayed. The new-born
babies look undernourished, but the other kids have plenty of
vigor. The 487th area begins on the
outskirts of town, with buildings that look as if they were molded
in wet lava by a giant-child who tried
but couldn't quite get his corners square and lines straight.
Roofs are of different levels, sprouting odd
little chimneys at frequent and odd intervals. A few are tiled,
but most are just rounded off lava. All
are old. The main road splits the 487th area, winds on down past
the landing field to the town of
Terzigno, where the 488th and Headquarters are bivouacked. The
486th is spread out along the road,
which is busy with GI vehicles, carts and horses, women with
vegetables on their heads, kids, soldiers
stringing wires or carrying typewriters. There is a general noise
of woodcutting, hammering, yelling
children, and the slush of vehicles going through mud......The
12th Bomber Command, some of whose
personnel is being drawn from units within it, was depleted when
its former personnel were used to
form the 15th Air Force Hq......The Calais area has been heavily
bombed three times within the week.
Germans say we are after their secret rocket guns, but it looks
like invasion may be imminent. 1300
bombers went over first, then “more than 3000 warplanes,” then
1200 bombers......The Operations
Trailer is still on the road, inching slowly along on the winding
highways......A number of vehicles
were left behind by the 306th Service Group drivers and materials
were swiped when the forward party
first came up......
6th
Major Parsons mentioned casually this evening that one of the four
B-25 Groups will be sent to Burma
to join General Chennault's Fourteenth Air Force. Guess is that it
will be the 310th or the 340th......A
new plane came in tonight, making twenty for the Squadron. It has
five nose guns, a tail turret, and is a
corker – one of the newest D's......On the night they arrived
here, Sgts. Bunn and Padon fell into a well,
getting a cold bath on a cold night. No injuries
suffered......Sgt. Harasavich's leg was freed of it's cast
today......Engineering is in a barn (with an ack-ack gun on top).
The family owning the barn has a little
12 yr. old girl named Josephina, who has taken a great shine to
Sgt. Gross. She won't let him sweep,
won't even let him erase marks on the blackboard......The Eye-tyes
seem fascinated by the airplanes
taking off and landing, and won't go away. Capt. Coyle shot three
flares at a group yesterday, and a
guard almost took his gun to another crowd before they would
disperse......Sgts. Dutchick, Spader,
Huffman, and Elliott haven't changed their clothes since Christmas
Eve and don't see any prospect of
doing so. They returned from Naples on leave to discover their
tent had been mysteriously
burned......After visiting Naples, one sergeant has broken the
Squadron's record by writing home for
money. “Send me some money,” he says, “so I can see some more of
Italy.”......Someone thinks the
recent “thunderstorm” was a first sign of Spring.......One soldier
says he is going to get married as soon
as he reaches home, wonders why he didn't do it long ago. “I'm
going to get myself well-fixed for the
next war,” he says......Sgt. Buller says his brother has left the States
for a third tour, didn't like the
training program in the States while he was there......Someone
went out and killed a rabbit a few days
ago, had rabbit and fried spuds in his tent. Geese landed near the
runway at Foggia, but no one killed
any......Churches in Italy may be magnificent, but congregations
are poverty stricken......A new clipping
has been received in the Squadron: “Capt. Donald J. Marcan, lone
survivor among the six man crew of
a B-25 bomber which was shot down over Tunis last may 6, is
recovering from injuries received on that
mission at Percy Jones General Hospital, Battle Creek, Michigan.
His wife expects to remain with him
until he can return home. He is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Carl H.
Marcan, 943 No. 33rd St.”......7X has a
picture of Bugs Bunny rampant on its nose, and is called “Old
Bugs:.......
7th
The 487th flew a practice mission this morning, with eight ships
successfully bombing a road bridge
northeast of Foggia. Because interrogation conflicted with lunch
(with steak, new potatoes, and gravy)
results were only scantily reported.......The 340th Group is
reported to have gotten a new commander
today...Lt. Col. Jones. He was one of those on the Tokio [Tokyo]
Raid and is reported to be A-No.
1......We have lost one of our Italian kitchen boys – he had a
chance......”So with my Air Medal and
five cents,” one combat crew member avers, “I can ride any subway
in New York City”......A few light
bulbs (probably Japanese, and definightly cheap grade) have been
bought in Poggia Marino for $1.20
each......Group Special Services has obtained the use of a small
cinema house in San Guiseppe, a neat
little village about five miles from our area. Our first show
tonight was “In Little Old New York” with
Alice Faye, Fred MacMurray, and Richard Greene......”I'm always
surprised,” says one man, “to find
things over here which I had always thought were strictly
American.” By that, he means he gets a kick
out of seeing Remington typewriters and such items being used over
here by the natives. Singer
Sewing Machines and Eastman Kodak Film (if they are American, and
we think they are) seem to be
practically Universal......The Italians just bundle up when it
gets cold. They run around barefoot in this
weather, not appearing to mind. If they have any shoes, they are
simple wooden clogs with a piece of
canvas across the instep......Our boys are amazed by the industry
of the Italian girls, and are prone to
compare them with American women. These girls drive cattle-drawn
carts, carry loads on their heads,
wash clothes, and appear far more hardy than the
men-folk.......There seems to be considerable pilfering
from the store-house behind the mess-hall. Canned chicken, fruit,
and fruit juices disappear right and
left. Bread is a favorite item, because it is a basis for late
snacks in tents and rooms......The mess hall
boys themselves often cook up a few pork chops late at night, or
at least there have been pork chop
smells emanating from the kitchen late at night......Men who have
been with us all the way from
Walterboro are beginning to forget about going home, feeling that
they are here for the duration.
“Home by the end of '45” is gradually replacing “Home by
Christmas” now that Christmas has come
and gone......
8th TOP
Briefing was in Squadron today for a simulated bombing attack on a
road bridge southeast of Potenza.
Eight planes participated, dropping their “bombs” in a good
pattern. On the return, the area south of
Vesuvius was covered in mist, and the field was difficult to find.
A barrage balloon over Torre
Annunziata was eventually dragged down, but planes were flying
around in the heavy haze, only barely
able to see each other. Flying from this field is going to have
its difficulties......7B is now named
“Little Isadore” for some reason. Another interesting name is
“Princess Nelly Thunder,” one of the 310th
ships which came in in the middle of December......Lts. Hollis and
Emslie left three days ago, without
as usual, saying goodbye. They're off for the U.S.A......The plane
which arrived on January 6th is well heeled
with guns. There are three in the nose and two on each side of the
pilot's compartment. There is
also a tail turret, plus top turret and waist guns. It is called
“Tare Sugar” and has the Morse symbols for
T.S. on the side. It has only 85 hours on it and is straight from
the States......The Squadron is flooded
with rumors that we are going to England. These come from a
feeling that since General Montgomery
is going to England, he may want to take with him a couple of the
tactical outfits he has had with him
the past year......Show tonight in San Guiseppe was “Thank Your
Lucky Stars” with Eddie Cantor and a
dozen or so movie stars. Screwy but entertaining......Frankfurters
for supper for first time......
9th
A practice formation was to have dropped 100 lb practice bombs on
a range located on the famous
Salerno invasion beaches this morning, but dull skies and
intermittent rains canceled the
mission......Col. Knapp, CO of the XII Bomber Command, of which we
are now a part (we are no
longer under 57th Wing and XII ASC, effective January 1st),
visited today. With him was Lt. Col. Jones,
new 340th Commander, who insisted upon being personally introduced
to every man in the outfit, clerks
and cooks alike......Since Lt. Wrede is expected to be on his way
to the USA when his birthday arrives
in a few days, kitchen personnel baked his cake today and allowed
him to invite a few of his friends to
the mess hall to eat it......Capt. Stith, 486th S-2, has given us
Lt. Frank O'Leary's story of his escape
from Greece. Lt. O'Leary was pilot of a plane shot down November
17th over Athens/Kalamaki A/D.
Lt. Smith, co-pilot, bailed out, but the Greeks allowed him to be
taken prisoner because he had a bad
head-gash and to try to smuggle him out might have endangered his
life. The Greeks say they'll get
him out as soon as he is well. The Germans buried the four other
members of the crew (there was a tailgunner
that day) with full military honors, including flowers and a
21-gun salute. The Greeks
photographed the grave and gave prints to Lt. O'Leary. The Germans
evidently were not able to
identify the men, but the Greeks said they would mark the graves
with information supplied by Lt
O'Leary. Lt. O'Leary was amazed by the efficient system which has
been organized by British
Intelligence......T/Sgt. Latady, S/Sgt. Harding, and Sgt. Geers
are without a tent since the 7th. It burned
after their gasoline stove blew up......
10th
Col. Jones visited the line today, saying he wanted to know everyone
and asking to be introduced to all
and sundry. By all accounts he created a very good impression,
asking what he could do, what
equipment is needed. He said he had heard we had more ships in the
air than anyone else. One
decision we liked: Group Material said we'd have to get authority
from headquarters to take the extra
strafing guns off Tare Sugar, but he said “You have to fly 'em.
You take 'em off if you don't want
'em.”......The 310th is evidently the group going to Burma......Lt.
Coyle is trading off 7R and 7S for two
new B-25 H's. Since 7S can't carry wing racks, the new ship will
carry 50,000 lbs. more bombs in fifty
missions, a considerable amount......Lts Wrede and Sherbourne left
for home. S/Sgts. Longman,
Morgan and Beringer left yesterday.......Someone broke into the
tent belonging to Truex and Kelly and
made off with several articles of value. “Eyeties,” they suggest;
“or Limey's”......Captain Meriwether
was interviewed today by 12th Bomber Command and A-2 and was told
to report for duty on the 12th. It
is likely to be a more responsible job for him, as a member of the
A-2 section......Shanley received a
Christmas card today from little Siok, addressed from Veteran's
Administration, Northampton, Mass,
U.S.A......The Squadron is fairly well supplied with coal swiped
down by the docks in Naples......There
are many advantages to being near a port, the chief one being that
we are eating better than at any time
in our history......
11th
Practice bombing missions went out from the several squadrons in
the Group this morning and
afternoon. A plane of the 486th got caught in prop wash on
landing, flipped over on its back and
exploded. Apparently the 100 lb. practice bombs were being brought
back for some reason, for the
explosion was greater than that of gas tanks. The entire crew was
killed......Lt. Gellman did not brief
our crews to twirl the spinners around, and consequently all or
practice bombs were duds. It is
difficult to see how bombs can be duds from 9000 feet, and then
explode when a plane crashes.
Sympathetic detonation after explosion of gas tanks may account
for it......Mt. Vesuvius is a great
mound to the North of us, sprinkled with snow. She smokes white at
times, then black. Tonight her
north side had four trickles of molten lava to about a third of
the way down. Snow covered ridges
hedge us in all around, except the West, where Torre Annunziata
lies on the coast......Several officers of
the Squadron visited the lavish Orange Garden in Naples tonight.
It has much of the atmosphere of a
night club at home, serving gin, vermouth and several other
mediocre drinks. There are enough women
(nurses and Red Cross) to make the place ornamental. Although it
closes at 10, there seems to be
enough time to get stinko. Ground officers have a bellicose
attitude toward the Air Corps and the
Peninsula Base Section, growing out of the fact that Service Area
Command and Base Section
frequently have elaborate private clubs in cities, to which the other
officers are not admitted......
12th
Six ships flew a local practice formation flight today. No other
operations......Show tonight was
“Pittsburgh” an old one which everyone had seen, but still an
improvement over last night's “Omaha
Trail” which lowered morale considerably......The Argus says “The
487th Squadron led the Group in
number of sorties flown, number of operational hours, tonnage of
bombs dropped, and in bombing
efficiency (for the month of December).” That's everything! There
were 133 sorties, 300:30
operational hours, and 272.73 tons of bombs dropped credited to
the 487th. For the period April, 1943
to December 1943, 487th is credited with 967 sorties, 30016:15
operational hours, and 1663:25 tons of
bombs dropped. Says the Argus: “During this period (of our total
time in combat) the 488th Squadron
led the Group in number of sorties flown and operational hours.
The 487th Squadron led in tonnage of
bombs dropped and bombing efficiency”......Capt. Meriwether left
for 12th BC......The ruins of Pompeii
are about four miles from our base, and almost everyone has
visited them. Reactions have been varied
regarding the ruins themselves: Some had expected something more
astonishing, others want to go
back again. The (Roman) pornography drew considerable comment. The
huge Cathedral in Pompeii aroused
awed appreciation......All orders for the Capri rest camp have
been temporarily canceled......There is a
general feeling that the Italians in the area are glad to see
us......The Communications section played
Santa Claus all by themselves on Christmas Day. They gathered up a
pile of candy and cigarettes, put
it in a jeep, and went looking for people to give the stuff to.
The made a special package which was to
go to the “prettiest little girl they found.” The little girl
turned out to be one with a fractured leg, who
deeply appreciated the presents......Sgt. Hostetler has sent home
$1200 which he won gambling. The
First Sergeant is asking his wife for $300, and says if he gets it
he's off gambling for the duration......Lt.
Farley says the “red ack-ack” which the combat crews reported over
Greece is magnesium. Bits of it
burn enormous holes in planes......The new flak suits came in
today. There are several types, one type
looking something like a catcher's protector. The two pieces worn
by the bombardier weigh 25 ½ lbs.
13th
Mission today was to Guidonia A/D, about 20 miles east of Rome.
Nine 487th planes took off, but one
had to return because of mechanical difficulty. This plane reported
it had been shot at over Naples
harbor. The other eight planes were to bomb the dispersal areas
east of the field and did so with good
results. Photos show our bombs falling well in the designated
area. The field was evidently an
important target, because three Groups participated in the attack.
All 340th ships returned safely, but
one ship of the 12th Group was shot down. Ack-ack was intense, but
not very accurate. Lt. Puckett
says he dreaded the mission more than any heretofore, probably
because he has not flown in a month.
He says he almost got sick until the ack-ack began to pop, but
that he began to feel alright after they
began shooting at him......Barankovich is crew chief and Ellman is
assistant on Tare Sugar. Batelli has
been made assistant crew chief on Snow White II.......After
looking at these people, their ways of doing
things, and their equipment, one wonders how the Italians ever
figured they could win the
war......Italian women appear to age much more rapidly than
American women. Women of 35 often
look like grandmothers (they may be, of course......24 more new
men came in from the 310th Group
today. They say the whole Group is being filled up with G's, that
nobody knows which way is up, but
that there was no rumor in circulation that the Group would go to
Burma......Show tonight was “Lucky
Jordan” with Alan Ladd. The patriotic note at the ending made the
audience a bit self-conscious......A
number of men have expressed a desire to attend the opera in
Naples.......Mickey Schwartz and Nate
Crane left today for the good old U.S.A.......
14th
Stand-down today for the 487th Squadron. The other squadrons of
the 340th Group bombed the road
bridge on the Cassino-Rome road again. The 486th lost two planes
over the target, and in another a
gunner bailed out, believing his plane was gone after the
inter-phone was shot out......The road to
Pompeii is particularly rough. From Poggia Marino, it winds through
the less attractive section of the
village of Scafati on to the present town of Pompeii, which is
much less wholesome than the ruins,
which are not populated by cauliflowers, pregnant women, and
millions of children. The entrance is
clogged with street merchants selling an amazing collection of
junk, chiefly colored rayon bedspreads
at $30.00 each. Another favorite item is ash trays made of lava.
Tickets are five lire each, and English speaking
guides charge 150 lire for a party of one to fifteen. The
amphitheater has been damaged in
two places by bombs, one crater being in the center of the
enclosure. Another bomb landed in “The
House of the Dancing Faun”......Chief amazements: That the
unearthed town is so large; that another
town has been dug up; that another still-buried town lies under
Castellamare di Stabbia; That the towns
were buried under lava-ash carried by the wind rather than flowing
lava; that the people were so
sexy......A
bachelor brothers......Sad relics of
del Sole, with a single musician serenading two lone dog-faces;
bedraggled awnings over the political
inscriptions on the walls; the unexcited attitude of the
guide......
15th TOP
Today the 487th provided six ships and six crews to bomb the
marshaling yards at Foligno, Italy. All
returned safely and bombs fell with a fair degree of accuracy on
the marshaling yards. Crews reported
the observation of three single engined enemy fighters on route
back but gunners were rather
disappointed that they offered no opposition......Ack-ack was
inaccurate and no ships were
holed......After a two weeks absence because of our Service Group
remaining in Foggia, the P.X. rations
came in today. Being so near to a seaport as large as Naples that
handles most of the American
supplies, creates a question as to why rations get fewer each
week. At Hergla we thought we had hit
the bottom as far as rations were concerned, but it now looks as
though the Port of Pompeii is rapidly
gaining ground and before too long shall take the title. Sgt. Greg
Moore, squadron P.X. man, has
inaugurated a new set-up where by cigarettes and candy (which has
been obvious by its absence for the
last month) is meted out every other day, thus conserving the
rations. An excellent idea which won't
last long if rations continue to be as poor as they have been
lately......Special Service posted a notice
today that arrangements were being made to provide tickets and
transportation for La Traviata at the
world famous San Carlo Opera House. A great number of enlisted men
expressed their desire to attend
not only for the opera, but mostly to tell the folks at home that
they attended a program at the famous
theater......At the movie tonight was “Omaha Trail.”
16th
Six B-25's of the 487th were over the target at 1235 hours today.
The marshaling yards at Terni, Italy
again felt the weight of the 340th Bombardment Group. Crews
reported large explosions in the target
area created by a perfect bomb pattern starting at the north side
of the tracks to the south side. Ack-ack
was nil and there was no other enemy opposition......Romance has
blossomed in the bosom of the war weary
487th Squadron. Cpl. Bill Dunnerman asked permissions of Maj.
Parsons to marry one of the
local Signorina's. She's lovely, but can't speak English nor can
he speak Italian. However, Bill claims
that she can understand him – perhaps it's the international
language of love that every human
understands. Remark: Love isn't blind, but definightly silent in
this case......Sgt. Carl Serio and a few
other Catholic boys in the squadron were rather perturbed about
the Italian girls entering the church
bare-headed. At 11:30 Mass in the nearby house of worship, Sgt.
Joe Walsh served the Mass and Serio
delivered the sermon in Italian on “Why a lady should wear a
chapeau in Church.” Next Sunday we'll
know how effective the sermon ala Serio has been.......Since
Naples is out of bounds, souvenirs being
sent home are becoming fewer although Pompeii still has an
abundance of the customary junk that GI's
are foolish enough to buy......Early diners imbibed in fried
chicken today, fresh from the States while
the later chow hounds had to satisfy themselves with hamburgers. Tasty
isn't the word for even fresh
hamburgers after numerous C-ration menus......At the show tonight
was “Omaha Trail” for the second
time. Seemed to leave everyone rather cold......T/Sgt. E. S.
Johnston has given up turret specialist
ground work for the blue. He missed his first scheduled raid today
as he was delayed by the Dentist in
Naples who is taking an impression to replace some missing
choppers......Lts. Cox, Gavin, Simenitzky,
Sgts. Furey and Pinion left for the U.S.A. today......
17th
The marshaling yards at Sulmona or Guilianova, Italy, were to have
been the targets for six of our
planes today, but both targets were completely obscured by clouds
and the formation rather than return
with their bombs scouted around and finally dropped their bomb
load very successfully on the
marshaling yards at Chiaravalle, Italy. The pattern landed in the
marshaling yards southwest of the
town and extended through the town. No ack-ack or enemy aircraft
were encountered and all the planes
returned safely to the base.......Cpl. Hurley and Sgt. Moore went
to Naples today – Cpl. Hurley to make
arrangements for seats to the opera and Sgt. Moore to “check-up”
on PX supplies. Both returned in the
evening feeling very gay, after having many a drink and dancing
with the
tickets alright, but we never did hear anything about the
PX......A supply of Pyramidal tents arrived at
the squadron today and looks very much like we'll have to knock
down the ones already up and erect
the new ones – always sump'm to take the joy out of
living......Before we know it, when the season is
over we'll have GI stoves......The mail situation is still bad
following the Christmas package deliveries.
Main bitch is that although everybody received many packages,
there are still a great deal yet
uncovered. Could be that the fish also enjoyed a festive holiday
or else Davie Jones has a locker full of
goodies......That fine Southern drawl now heard on the 487th switchboard
is that of Sgt. J. G. Johnston
who is now functioning in the message center......Sgt. Shanlay is
now responding to “Stanley” which
was brought about by the mess hall personnel......Rumors: That we
move before the 25th of this month.
That seven men out of the squadron will be returned to the
Continental limits each month. We're all in
favor of the latter, but too sensible to believe it.......
18th
Six planes and crews took off at 10:20 today to bomb a Viaduct at Terni,
Italy. The mission was not too
successful as the entire pattern was laid on the left side of the
Viaduct. However, the nearby town
which is occupied by German troops felt the brunt of the attack.
No ack-ack was encountered over the
target, but the formation met a slight barrage on the trip home –
two ships, 7E and 7T were slightly
holed......Roast Beef for dinner today – very good, but no
seconds.......Lt. Swearingen left the squadron
to take up duties as S-2 officer in the 486th Sq. We'll all miss him
particularly since he did such a good
job with Special Services to say nothing of his excellent work on
the diary. Capt. Bugbee is now our
Special Service officer......Cpl. Nelson, our mail orderly had an
unfortunate accident today while
driving a jeep to Gp. Hq. An Eyetie child received a broken leg –
Too bad, but there are so many of
these children who are always on the road scurrying back and forth
for no particular reason that such
things are bound to happen. From all appearances Mussolini's “mama
medals” were distributed in
large quantities in this village.......Signorina's are calling on
the boys in the tent area these nights and
they very often get a warm reception – here's hoping the boys
don't get too much out of it......Roy
Rogers in “Song of Texas” was the movie tonight. It was well liked
by all the boys from Texas, but
??????..........
19th
Today the target for six of our ships and crews was the Airdrome
at Rieti, Italy. A 9-ton bomb load was
dropped on the Airdrome at 1319 hours with very good results.
Black smoke and explosions were
observed as a result of the bombing......T/Sgt. Robert L. King,
left this morning for the States after
completing his tour of combat missions and a sojourn in the
hospital due to too many gay times
between going over the targets. Two trucks loaded to capacity
departed at 12:30 for the San Carlo
Opera House in Naples to hear La Traviata. Both trucks arrived at
Naples in time for all to have a bite
to eat and drink some Vino before the performance. Cpl. Bartkus
says, “I enjoyed the opera very much
but there was too much singing. It gets monotonous hearing them
sing all the time. I think they should
talk now and then”........Sgt. Pritchard and Sgt. Hetzner were in
a festive mood after returning form the
opera and after having eaten many spam sandwiches in the mess hall
proceeded to one of the local vino
shops and consumed tow bottles of vermouth. They said it was
really good and true it must have been
for both boys insisted on serenading around the tent area at a
much too late hour......Capt. Bugbee spent
a good part of today in town trying to find out who was the legal
owner of the green sedan Major
Parsons rides around in. If Major Parsons is not now the legal
owner of said machine he will be
shortly......Roy Rogers in “Song of Texas” was repeated at the
movies tonight. Area guard was
discontinued with a warning that it would be resumed if the men
did not cooperate in keeping the
civilians as well as the Signorinas out of the area.......
20th
Our target today was PP C-277889, a railroad bridge well above the
line. Apparently every group in the
theater had the same target as visibility was so poor due to smoke
and explosions caused by accurate
bombing of the target earlier in the morning. However, the 487th
unwilling to bring back their bombs,
located another bridge and bombed the hell out of PP G-271890. The
six ships of the 487th were over
the target at 1306 hours. Ack-ack was heavy, moderate and inaccurate
as to height and no ships were
holed. 2nd Lt. Eustis, Bombardier on the raid said, “We came close
enough to shake the foundations,
but the bridges were still standing when we banked to return to
the base”......Sgt. Drause, armorer-gunner,
left for Cairo on detached service for one month to attend RAF
school. He was wondering if
Groppi's is still the place it used to be......In the mess hall
today, La Traviata was being compared to
shows put on by Minsky. Another thing that came up was the
comparison between New York's
Metropolitan and the San Carlo. Cpl. White offered his opinion
that there were probably more true
opera lovers attending the San Carlo in one season than there were
at the Metropolitan through its
existence.......The new GI tents that came in the other day are
going up gradually in the area. They will
no doubt prove to be more comfortable but we sure hate to tear up
our happy little homes now for no
other reason than to change tents.......Promotions came out today:
“Smokey Hostetler made T/Sgt.,
Sgts. Powell, Wood, Stephenson and Vervacke made Staff, Gammage
and Iwan made Sgt. - Gammage
started a wet celebration early in the morning......”Quiet Please
– Murder” with Gail Patrick was at the
movies tonight. Everybody seemed to enjoy it although Gail Patrick
always proves refreshing in spite of
her role......Two new officer bombardiers joined the 487th today,
2nd Lt. Paul V. Deneen and 2nd Lt.
Frederick Risch......Baptism of fire for S/Sgt. engineers Parks,
Floyd, Longwedel and Padon, flying as
tail-gunners......
21st
Two missions today – looks like something's cookin'. The first to
take off was up at 08:45 and over
Foligno marshaling yards at 1050 hours, but due to heavy cloud
coverage returned with their bombs at
1200 hours. Number two took off at 1345 hours and was over the
target, Avezzano marshaling yords,
at 1500 hours. Bomb pattern was excellent placing the bombs
directly into the yards and destroying
several buildings within the area. Ack-ack was reported as coming
from the airfield northwest of the
target. However, it was inaccurate and none of the ships were hit.
T/Sgt. Woodrow Peterson upon
returning from the raid said that he had never seen so much allied
air activity before during his entire
tour. Six ships of the 487th participated in each raid......A
meeting of the squadron was called at 1800 to
impart some S-2 information which was eagerly anticipated all day.
All were rather disappointed when
Lt. Linthicum announced that they had received word to divulge no
information until the OK from
Group was given, which was expected at any moment. However, it was
suggested that those wishing
to do so should go to the movies where “Hit Parade of 1943” was
unreeling, and the news would wait.
Some hung around however until 2030 when the invasion of Italy,
north of the line and the Allies
intention of taking Rome within three days was announced. This is
the first real morale booster in the
news since Naples fell......Changes in mess-hall personnel sent
Mess Sgt. Jayne back to his old
stamping ground in Communications and Sgt. McMillan is replacing
him as Mess Sgt. “Mac” has been
cooking in our kitchen almost from tine of activation and should
prove to be a fine Mess
Sergeant......Our only general duty man, Cpl. William Stewart is
now holding forth in the
kitchen......The remainder of the GI tents were pitched as today
was the dead-line, everybody is now
freezing to death as they have so much more space to heat than our
beloved desert tents. Oh! for a
steam heated room with an adjoining tile bath.......
22nd TOP
Crews as well as ground personnel were rather anxious today after
the information received last night,
and the order that five crews and ships be in readiness to take
off at any hour of the night. However, we
were on an immediate standby all morning until the mission was
called at 1130 hours. The target was a
PP (G-169493) which unfortunately was missed completely. Our
pattern overshot the road but with the
amount of traffic in the air no doubt the road was destroyed
before the day was over. Ack-ack was
heavy, 7L, 7C and 7F were holed. 7H lost her nose wheel door, but
no damage was done.......Capt.
Bugbee admits that the officers are transacting “official”
business with regularity at the “Orange
Grove,” Allied Officer's Club atop the highest hill in Naples. No
wonder, it offers blue lights, dance
band, drinks, and has all the attributes of a New York night spot.
It is one of the few swank tourist
rendezvous remaining of the once glorious Naples......New combat
crew member arriving today were:
2nd Lts. Billy Jo Barry, pilot; and Howard F. Stewart, navigator;
S/Sgt. Edward F. O'Neill, engineergunner;
and Sgt. Ernest E. Mathurin, radio-gunner. S/Sgt. Crosby finished
fifty-two missions with the
12th Bomb Group last May and after being sent back to the States,
volunteered for another tour.
Carrying gas masks, wearing helmets and the new ideas of the
“Chairborne Command” of what a
soldier needs to know was too much for him, after seeing the real
thing. REMARK: Maybe we'll all be
of the same opinion after we see what's been done with the army we
left behind......Lt. Joe Farley and
Sgt. Parkins are entertaining old friends from the 389th Port
Battallion this week-end......”Stage Door
Canteen” with Gracie Fields, Ray Bolger and Vera Zorina was the
flicker tonight. Had a lot of audience
appeal and everybody enjoyed it......Today the boys are on the
line to bid good-bye to their friends of
the 400th Ack-ack Bn. The gun and circle of sand bags atop the
Engineering office will be missed as it
served as a land mark for the boys returning to their quarters in
the dark.......Biggest issue of the year –
Can Roy McKinney outlast Fred Helms with the local Signorinas?
They compared records for a half hour
tonight – no decision......T/Sgt. John Bills' Tuff Stuff (483) is
the subject of lots of wagers. His
engines with over 450 hours, second highest in the group right now,
are drawing bets as to whether or
not they'll reach 500 or 600 hours......
23rd
Mission
Target for today was the cross roads at Avezzano. Five 487th
B-25's were over the designated area at
1024 hours and returned at 1125 hours with a sad story. Their
bombs landed in town starting from
southwest corner of the large square and extending through the
town on a 120 heading. After having
one of the best, if not the best bombing records in this theater
it's rather hard to take these near misses.
However, when our new crews become more acclimated to combat we
expect them to make their
predecessors bombing record look sick......Our newly acquired P.X.
rations went on sale today for
enlisted men, with an endless line from 3:30 to 6:30 P.M. Candy
was really a treat this time after being
without over since Christmas packages went to the
cleaners......Special Service has started in earnest and
thus far has received many acceptable suggestions......Nomination
for address easiest to remember:
Bombardier, Morton Holzman's female friend at #10 Downing Street,
New York City. The young
lady's name and apartment number are personal property......Poor
T/Sgt. Gaffney was scared for a while
yesterday when the lady with the baby at the Armament gate
jabbered away in Italian and Sgt. Rexford
“interpreted” that she was accusing George of having seduced her
daughter and wanted to know when
George was going to marry the “Seduced Girl.” “But I never ever
went near any of the girls around
here,” Gaffney pleaded. Actually the lady was looking for
laundry......M/Sgt. Lynch, our real army
man, suggested that the 1st Sgt. locate in the Chesapeake Bay area
as a gof-horn when hostilities
cease.......Barbara Stanwyck put on a “leg show” at the movies
tonight in “Lady of Burlesque.” Barbara,
we find, is still talking out of the side of her mouth although
she's a fine actress and always
entertaining......”Bet show I've seen since coming overseas,” was
the remark passed by many after
seeing “High Rookie” a completely G.I. show put on in the 486th
area today. They came with two
trucks, their own equipment and within one hour's time were set up
to begin the performance. Small
wonder it was a success on it's tour of the U.S. and England.
24th
Intermittent rains caused the squadron to stand-down today.....The
Special Service room was well
inhabited by those who like to read and many expressed
appreciation for having such a place to idle
away a few hours on non-operational days......Officer's P.X.
rations went on sale today and all were
quite pleased with the variety & quantities, after such skimpy
rations for the past two months......Firearms
inspection was held today by T/Sgt. Gaffney. 1st Sgt. Parkins
tagged along to get a picture of the
enlisted men's rifles and we hear he wasn't too well satisfied as
many were rusty in whole or in
part......Capt. Bugbee & Lt. Farley went to Catania today to
purchase fresh vegetable & fruits to
supplement the quartermaster issue, which is entirely too
monotonous without our own efforts to make
the meals palatable......Fifteen minutes after the stand-down was
declared there wasn't a vehicle to be
had in the squadron as many had “official” business to transact in
the restricted city of Naples......The
487th was also well represented at the ruins of Pompeii......After
weeks of preparation and hard work by
our carpenter Sgt. Bornstein, squadron hot water showers went into
operation today. It's been
sometime since most of the boys had a good hot shower and there
was a long waiting line.
25th
Six of our planes took off at 0905 to bomb a road junction at
Artena, Italy. The formation was over the
designated area at 0945 only to find the target completely
obscured by clouds. 7L was carrying two
delayed action bombs and the pilot decided to jettison same on the
way back, which he did. While
circling the field waiting for landing instructions, group operations
ordered the planes to make a second
run on the target. They were over the target the second time at
1157 hours, but visibility was so poor
that they finally dropped their bomb load on a road near the town
of Guilianell, but not with success.
The pattern was laid to the left of the road and no hits were
observed. Ack-ack was heavy, accurate and
of moderate intensity, but all of our sips and crews returned
safely and a stand-down was declared for
the rest of the day......Ben Harmon, a member of the mess hall
personnel has an Eyetie house-boy who
is apparently a descendant from a long line of Landscape Gardners.
Ben and the other boys in the tent
had him lay out a road to the entrance of their domicile and in
spite of his youth he did a good job with
several of the trees forming an arch from the road to the door of
the tent. After many favorable
comments, the boys decided their “mansion” should have a name and
christened it “Villa Maria.”
Rumor has it that Maria is the name of Ben's favorite
Signorina......Joe Wynne who completed his
combat tour as a radio-gunner is having a bang-up time while
awaiting his orders to go home. He can
be found any night in one of a number of local
“taps”......Highland is now relieved of his job as crash
truck driver and is back on the line keeping “Rosie” (7U) in shape
for the many missions ahead......
26th
Mission this morning was called off at Group briefing due to
inclement weather conditions......Rain
made it a miserable gloomy day, unfit for human or beast. However,
it cleared and the sun came out in
time for the opera truck at 12:30. The opera offered this week was
the “Barber of Seville” which
received not nearly the reception of “La Traviata” last week. The
Barber is an opera that one more or
less has to learn to like as it has produced few tunes familiar to
the ear of the ordinary person......Lt.
Hammond was relieved of the duty of P.X. officer by Lt. Eustis and
the latter sold rations to the officers
today......A new issue of Special Service Magazines came in today
and did a disappearing act about as
rapidly. It's difficult to make people understand that they are
for the convenience of all rather than a
selected few......Quite a bit of mail came in for a change today.
mail is still No. 1 morale
booster......Sgt. W.W. Peterson and Fleming put on the gloves in
back of the mess hall tonight after a
verbal argument on a combat crew member flying over 50 missions
and ruining it for the boys who
want to call it the completion of their tour at fifty......Sgt.
Fleming has volunteered for additional
missions.......Communications section repaired the phonograph
machine which was in operation one
day before some active GI mistook it for a wrestling partner while
listening to one of the newly
acquired jive compositions. Cpl. Fletcher has decided he may enjoy
a selection or two occasionally
and has condescended to do his best with the machine in the
welding shop......Rumor has it that the men
on the line will soon have a frame building containing two rooms
constructed for them, to be used as
reading, writing, and game rooms.......Angriest man on the line
today was T/Sgt. Horwitz who used the
stand-down yesterday to clean his ship inside and out and then
found that a couple of guards had used
the cockpit for a lounge where they drank coffee and spilled in
here and there......
27th
Mission Documents Orte M/Y
Two missions again today which we hope is more of a headache to
the Germans than it is to us. The
first was over the railroad junction at Segni-Colleferro, Italy,
at 1024 hours. Bombs landed in the field
south of the target for another near miss. Ack-ack encountered was
heavy, accurate and intense, two
ships were holed but all crews returned safely. Second raid took
place in the afternoon with the
marshaling yards at Orte, Italy, as the 487th formation's target.
7P Piloted by Capt. Willhite ran into
difficulty shortly after takeoff when due to hydraulic failure,
2-1000 lb. bombs dropped through the bomb
bay doors and landed safe. Capt. Willhite flew the plane out to
sea and salvoed the remaining bombs,
warned the crew to be ready to jump, tested the landing gear and
then brought the plane safely back to
the base......The stand-by plane took her place in the formation
and they proceeded to the target and
dropped their bombs with a small percentage of hits being observed
in the yards, but a greater
percentage landed beyond the target. No enemy opposition was encountered.
A squadron meeting at
10:00 A.M. this morning was officiated by Maj. Parsons who
divulged a little information about the
Eyeties cutting our communications lines but otherwise was of the
customary “get on the ball” variety.
Maj. Parsons brought up the subject of our recently acquired
allies, the Italians, stealing everything and
anything they can get their hands on and that an attempt was being
made to keep them out of the area.
Sure enough the Provost Marshall's truck was combing the vicinity
and from the number arrested we
never expect to see another familiar Signorina or wash woman. A
lot of the boys are wondering how
they will ever get their laundry back if conditions remain the
same......The Dental clinic trailer, is now
gracing the 487th area. Capt. Nozick, group Dentist has set us
here to repair the teeth of those who were
in classes other than four after the last dental inspection. The
boys have already left quite a deposit of
“ivory” there, judging from the increasing number of toothless smiles......The
detail returning from
Sicily brought back some “Multi Bono” oranges which are now on
sale at the P.X. and going like hot
cakes......S/Sgt. Sherry Kelly who has organized a camera club for
the purpose of digging up material
and equipment plus developing film for those men on the line who
have cameras, is progressing nicely.
They say that Kelly is the picture-takingest man in the
outfit......”Ox Bow Incident” with Henry Fonda
pleased the audience at the show tonight......
28th
The 487th formation of six B-25's smashed the Orte marshaling
yards after their unsuccessful attempt
yesterday. They were over the target at 1210 hours and laid their
pattern perfectly starting on the east
side of the choke point and extending entirely across the choke point
to the west side. One of two
bursts were observed on railroad bridge north of the target which
crosses the Tevere River. Ack-ack
was scattered and inaccurate, holing no planes......Twenty-three
of the boys took advantage of a tour to
Vesuvius today. They seemed to enjoy the ride to the crater via
“The Funicular.” Many bought
souvenirs and all are glad that they didn't miss it......A Volley
ball court was set up today and soon the
boys will be getting more than enough exercise......Capt. Bugbee
decided to throw the ball around for a
while and wound up with a sprained ankle and a decision that he
would stick to cards and such “sitdown”
forms of relaxation in the future.......Lt. Forrester our new
Athletic director is getting all kinds of
equipment together in preparation for the games in the near
future.......Rumor once more says it's quite
possible that we might move to England. From all accounts next to
going back home, England is the
favorite parking spot for this duration......Cpl. Nelson departed
today for the hospital and a
tonsillectomy. Nelson says, “I will probably lose a lot of this
“gut” since my diet will be limited for a
few days.” Cpl. Lloyd will pinch-hit in the mail department during
“Smileys” absence......Sgt. Liphardt
and Cpl. White both on detached service to Group as Photo
Laboratory Technicians have been working
hard lately moving the trailer lab. to the other side of the road.
Reasons and benefits gained by the
move are not known. “Ox Bow Incident” was repeated at the movie
tonight.
29th
Today six of our planes set out at 0947 to bomb the marshaling
yards at Perugia, Italy, but because the
target was completely obscured by clouds the formation proceeded
to the alternate target which was the
harbor installations at San Benevello and dropped their bomb load
from 9700' with very poor results.
Most of the bombs fell in the water and a few landed on the beach.
No hits were observed on the
installations. No ack-ack was encountered over the target, but a
heavy accurate and moderate barrage
was met at Guilianova. However, all the ships and crews returned
safely......New combat crew
members arriving in the squadron are: Capt Geo. B. Birmingham,
pilot; 2nd Lt. Gerald U. Ashmore,
pilot; 2nd Lt. Everard B. Shemwell, Navigator; T/Sgt. James R.
Brooks, Radio-gunner; and S/Sgt. Ivan
W. Henderson, gunner. Brooks and Henderson came to us after
completing a tour in the Pacific
Theater. The latter is the proud possessor of the D.S.C. for
shooting down four Jap zeros......S/Sgt.
Richard T. Egan, Engineer, is also a newcomer in the outfit who
served in the Pacific.......Lt Hammond,
Lt. Wallace, T/Sgt. Taylor and Cpl. Balawedjer were the first to
take advantage of the new volley ball
court and tossed the ball around for more than and hour. All
complained of being a little “stiff,” but a
few more days will work out the kinks......The boys on the line
apparently had a feast during the night as
several were observed filling their pockets with potatoes stored
outside of the mess hall......Rumor has
it that we can expect a big improvement in the menus served at the
“Dining Salon,” due to the special
efforts of the mess officer and his partners in crime......Susan
Haywood in “Sis Hopkins” was the movie
tonight. Not very enjoyable because the reel broke down at least a
dozen times......A sword swallower
was a feature at the officer's club Saturday night show.
30th
Twelve crews were briefed early this morning to bomb a road
junction at Frascati, Italy. They were
over the target at 1012 hours and due to a complete cloud coverage
of the designated area, bombs
overshot and hit to the southwest of Frascati. Bomb bursts could
not be observed because of poor
visibility. Ack-ack was heavy, accurate and intense with a number
of red bursts observed. 7N (Flying Jenny) had the
left engine and hydraulic system shot out before going over the
target and continued to make the run.
The ship was brought back to the base for a belly landing by Lt.
Forrester, pilot. The only member of
the crew seriously injured was S/Sgt. J.E. Blume, photographer,
who incurred a broken leg and arm. 1st
Lt. Forrester, 2nd Lt. Barry, S/Sgt. Vervacke, T/Sgt. Hurney and
Sgt. Iwan were slightly bruised and
shaken up with no serious consequences.......Sunday always finds
most of the boys attending their
respective services either on base or in town......Cpl. Fletcher
appeared today with a bandage over his
left eye. Explanation is that he was hit with a piece of steel in
the welding shop......Our original Italian
K.P. “Potsa,” brought all the way from San Pancrazio has a most
limited American vocabulary.
However, he can say “Hey Joe” now, with his latest innovation “My
Naked Ass,” a 487th
standard......Sgt. Kosak is now forming a pool which is supposed
to reach the total of $700. for the
lucky one guessing the end of the war to the nearest minute. Of
course the $700. goal will only be
reached if everyone enters the pool......S/Sgt. S. Kelly claims
the Jerries knew he was up there on his
first mission as tail-gunner today. A piece of flak cut through
the fuselage two feet away from his gun
position......T/Sgt. Paul Hofmann, who as crew chief, was
responsible for “Flying Jenny's” (7N) being
one of the best ships we had, almost cried when Capt. Coyle told
him that “Jenny” had crashed landed
and could not be repaired. “I'll never have another ship like
her,” he explained.
Today was to have been a big day as far as missions were concerned
with the 487th scheduled to
participate in no less than three of them. The first crews were
alerted at 07:10, proceeded to briefing
and were advised that the ground troops had already covered the
target area. We were then on standby
until
progress and had all the targets for the day well in hand.....Men
on the line have formed a Camera Club
and held their first meeting tonight. they are all set to operate
with Sgts. Horwitz, Floyd, Litwin and
Bunn as the “Voices of experience” in the dark room.......Cpl
Vincent “Gusta-gust” Bartkus, is passing
up the operas this week. He's going to Caserta instead. “I've seen
an opera, but I've never seen a
palace,” he explained......The vicinity of the volley ball court
took on the appearance of a slaughter
house today with Lt. Samuels butchering the cow recently purchased
by the food scroungers. The next
few days should prove to be holidays in the mess hall......Cpl.
Wright liked his group guard detail so
well that he has volunteered for the job permanently and has
already transferred his cot, etc. to the
guards quarters......Cpl. Dunnerman is another group guard from
the squadron. He doesn't mind the
transfer too much, but it makes it a little inconvenient for
visiting his gal friend. Cpl. Fry who has been
on detached service to Group as a guard is now taking over the job
of Corporal of the Guard, left
vacant by “Beau Brummel” Dunnerman......”in this our Life” with
Bette Davis & George Brent was the
movie tonight. A good story and although most of the boys saw it
before they enjoyed it
again......Effective today Lts. Mayer, Auter, Gellman, Hammond,
Hauser, O'Toole and Rosenberg will
be sporting silver bars.
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
February 1944
[Transcriber's note: Some entries are truncated. Especially the
opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions, etc. Please see the original document for the
full details.]
War Diary, 487th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley,
487th BS.
2. Individuals appearing in photographs included in this war
diary:
a. Holzman, Warrington, Chandler, Peterson, Gammage, O'Neill
b. Casey, Miles, Pitonyak, Collman, Parsons, Hague
c. Carter, Conwill, Custer, Larson, Walsh, Prichard, Kenney,
Winebrenner, Melia, Smith, Crupp
d. Gould, Metz, Lynch, Cooper, Oliver, Coyle
e. Dutchick, Goodrich, Keister, Gould, Badgett, O'Neill,
Schreiner, Coyle, Lynch.
f. Glenn, McBride, Barankovich, Ellman.
g. Grantham, Highland, Johnston, Grossman, Horwitz.
h. Gellman, Miles, Hurney, Parsons
I. Losses in Action
J.W. Boston
C.H. Chandler
R.B. Alexander
W. Liebe
W. Isaacowitz
P.A. Rupert
Ray J. Rosato
John J. Weber
J. Distinguished Themselves in Action
Curtis R. Keogh
Leslie M. Lewis
Casimir C. Klujsza
1st
Stand-down all morning until a stand-down as declared shortly
after noon.....A huge steak dinner with
all the trimmings was scheduled for the
guests of honor. However, the dinner was postponed until the
evening and the steaks were held over.
Judging from the continuous length of the chow line the meal was a
success.....Pay day was held today
rather than the 31st due to the distance between here and the
Finance office. The customary card and
crap games followed leaving some with plenty which is always
outnumbered by those left holding the
well known “bag.” Local Vino shops were crowded this evening until
all hours with singing
G.I.'s.....Enlisted men and officers played a double header soft
ball game today. Enlisted men won both
games, 7 to 6 and 2 to 1. All were thoroughly exhausted after this
first game of the season.....M/Sgt.
Lynch, better known as “Pappy” is representing the Veterans of
Foreign Wars and already claims
writing 72 applications in this squadron alone......It's a
unanimous opinion that the blonde Hildigarde of
the Red Cross unit could choose the cot under which to park her
shoes, but dammit, she won't. She is
not to be confused with the lovely Hildigarde of American night
life fame......No dispute about who
wins the “honor” this month for having lost his pay fastest.
S/Sgt. Bill Dutchick wins hands down with
only a 15 minute period of grace......
2nd
Twelve ships and crews took off at 11:20 today with the road
junction at Marion, Italy as their target.
The two ton bomb load was dropped from 11000' at 1240 hours with
uncanny accuracy. 90% hits were
observed in the target area. Ack-ack was heavy, intense and
moderately accurate, but no ships were
holed and all returned safely to the base......A party of men went
on a trip to Caserta and had the
opportunity of visiting the Allied Headquarters stationed in the
Royal Palace. Due to restriction the
entire Palace was not open for inspection, but all the boys were
impressed with what they did
see....Orders are being taken for the squadron insignia which which
at long last is coming into its own.
Everyone is interested in displaying his identity and can't wait
to see the finished product......Fresh meat
stew for dinner today and roast beef for supper. Sure was a meaty
cow Lt. Samuels butchered and all
agree that a few more should be purchased. Everyone's morale is
much higher when the food is
good......All the newly acquired athletic equipment is getting a
work out these days. The squadron
street is the favorite scene for tossing around the foot ball and
at almost any time of the day we see a
number of the boys practicing up......Our A.P.O. was changed again
and all are hoping that it speeds up
the deliveries as letters from home have been few and far between
since Christmas......”Ghost Breakers”
with Bob Hope was the picture at the movies. Bob is one of the
favorites and whether the story is good
or bad it makes no difference......Rumor once more says we might
go to the Pacific Theater. Most of
the boys think the possibilities are slight and give it no more thought.
After a year overseas, transfer to
another theater of war would take the heart out of the whole gang
as the good old U.S.A. is our goal
when the Jerries decide to call it quits......
3rd
Crews were alerted early in the morning for the first mission but
due to the weather conditions Group
briefing was called off until 1146 hours at which time a
stand-down was declared. The stand-down had
no sooner been announced and everybody was heading out in
different directions. Vehicles are at a
premium every day but a total impossibility on a missionless
day......”Madame Butterfly” at the San
Carlo kept thirty enlisted men and a number [...]
[Transcriber's note: Page 4 containing the rest of the entry for the
3rd, all of the 4th and the first part of
the 5th is missing from the record.]
5th
(cont'd)
[...] but after hearing that the Germans were pushing our front
line troops around it was obvious that air
support was needed although weather conditions wouldn't permit
aerial efficiency. Several days of
good flying weather should send them back beyond Rome......A tent
and area inspection was held this
morning by Maj. Parsons and the 1st Sgt. - no restrictions evolved
so all must have been
satisfactory......Another big P.X. ration kept five men busy until
after six o'clock tonight. Chow and hot
coffee was saved for the workers and after being seated in the
mess-hall, some complained of sugaring
their coffee too thoroughly. Upon investigation it was discovered
that the syrup for tomorrow
mornings pancakes was the coffee substitute........Sgt. Stanley
Markov received a telegram from S/Sgt.
Louis Elinoff with a U.S. return. Elinoff had been an assistant
crew chief with the 487th almost since
activation, but an extreme ulcer condition got the bet of him in
Catania and he left for a general hospital
destination America......Rumor now has it that we follow the 12th
Group by February 28th......2nd Lt.
Dale J. Wallace transferred to the 12th Bombardment Group and 1st
Lt. Curtis Davis, also S/Sgt. Taylor
left us for the 12th Air Force Service Command today......The
bunch going to Vesuvius this afternoon
missed the guide at Pugliano through a misunderstanding and
attempted the trip up the mountain by
truck. Some report that the funicular was running while others
insist otherwise. However, it resulted in
a good days exercise which even improved the flavor of C-rations
upon their return...Late reports on
today’s inspection find one man’s bed completely out of order –
Cpl. Melia is on the serving detail until
February 15th......
6th
An early morning mission was scheduled, but due to a heavy cloud
coverage, postponed until 14:10 at
which time twelve planes and crews took off to bomb a road
junction at Frascati, Italy. The formation
was over the target at 1533 hours and dropped their bombs on the
junction with a fair degree of
accuracy. the pattern started short of the junction and crossed
the junction with smoke and dust
obscuring exact observations, but hits on the junction were
evident. Ack-ack was heavy, moderate and
fairly accurate, but two slightly holed ships was the only
damage......S/Sgts John E. Blume and Arsene
H. Vervacke were today awarded the Purple Heart for injuries
sustained in crash landing of January
30th......A new squadron detail roster was posted today. C.Q. is
now on duty for 24 ours at a stretch,
starting at
Staffs will now pull this “arduous” task. The general consensus of
opinion is that while it is necessary
for a man to be on hand during the night and early morning hours
in case of an emergency, the balance
of the time is spent only in trying to keep out of the way of the
“busy” orderly room staff....Another
change in the guard situation is the “roving in a jeep” guard. Two
men in a jeep patrolling the
dispersal area for five hours at a clip. A pretty good idea to
conserve shoe leather and waste gas......Men
on the line who were formerly excused from almost all details
excepting guard, are now taking their
turns in serving the chow......Congratulations to Sgt. Ralph Hoti
and S/Sgt. Pinneo. Their good work
has been recognized and they're to be made crew chiefs of the tow
new ships expected shortly......T/Sgt.
Ceo. W. Laiten, “call me Ward” - holds the record for engine
change. He changed his last one in12
hours of actual working time, which is outstanding considering the
equipment he has to work with......
7th
Cisterna di Roma was the first target of the day with twelve ships
and crews of the 487th participating in
the raid. At 1010 hours a 48,000 bomb load was dropped from 10500'
with utmost accuracy. The
bomb pattern covered the southwestern part of the town thoroughly,
extending across a railway bridge
with several direct hits on the bridge itself. Ack-ack was heavy,
inaccurate and moderate. All planes
returned safely to the base. Mission number two had as its target
the marshaling yards at Viterbo, Italy
with seven of our ships taking part. Bombs were believed to have
pierced the target area, but due to
dust and smoke created by other formations, crews found it
difficult to observe the exact pattern. After
turning off the target our formation was attacked by what was
believed to have been a ME 109.
However, it did no damage and was last seen leading a couple of
Spits northward. No ack-ack was
encountered and the planes returned undamaged......M/Sgt. “Pappy”
Lynch finally blew his top about
his men being pulled for all kinds of details. He and the 1st Sgt.
had words about the situation when
“Pappy” asked for a couple of clerks from the Orderly Room to help
crew an airplane......S/Sgts John
O. Fabian and Bernard A. Zucker joined the squadron today after a
number of combat mission with the
12th Group. Apparently their tour was so near completion that it
was hardly worth while for them to
accompany the Group to its secret destination......Officers P.X.
with a large variety of items was about
the only happening of the day......
“Jack Ass Mail” was repeated at the movies tonight......
8th TOP
Again today the town of Cisterna di Roma felt the weight of a
487th eleven ship formation. A 48,000 lb
bomb load was dropped with an excellent degree of accuracy at 1332
hours with the exception of a few
scattered hits along the road leading north to Cori. The remainder
devastated the northwestern part of
town. Ack-ack was scattered, heavy and inaccurate although two
ships were holed. No one
injured......Sgt. Greg Moore did a pastel portrait for one of the
local belles and received a hand worked
linen table mat in return which he is rightfully proud
of......Everyone who heard “Rigoletto” last week
was so pleased with the performance that they're asking for a
repetition......Two trucks loaded with coal
were delivered to the squadron, however it was not any time before
it could be put to good use......Col.
Jones presented Air Medals and Clusters with little ceremony out
on the end of the taxi strip this
morning. It was a 487th affair with 487th men receiving awards and
487th guard of honor......Chow was
scheduled from four to five-twenty tonight so that all enlisted
personnel could make the meeting called
by Col. Jones for 5:30 P.M. For most of the boys it their first
glimpse of the Group Commander. He
discussed the efficiency of the Group, complimented the men on the
line for keeping our planes in the
air 100%, warned against the deadly venereal disease rampant in
this country. All told he gave a fine
address and impressed everyone with his sincerity as well as his
evident personality......2nd Lt. Barlett L.
Harper was transferred to the hospital today after being confined
for sometime.......”Betty Grable”
displayed her shapely bit of femininity at the movies tonight in
“Song of the Islands”.....
9th
Troop concentrations at PP's F-881391 to F-890380 were the target
for twelve of our shops and crews
today. The formation was over the target at 1424 hours and dropped
their bomb load successfully on
the designated area. Ack-ack was heavy, intense and accurate,
holing 6 of our ships. 7V piloted by Lt.
Foster had its brakes and flaps shot out and 7M piloted by Lt.
Puckett was relieved of its hydraulic
lines. Both ships returned safely to the field and made successful
emergency landings. There were no
casualties......”Madame Butterfly” at the San Carlo Provided
entertainment for eighteen of the fellows
today......Lt. Rosenberg is a frequent visitor at our new donut
kitchen. Is it the donuts or the feminine
pulchritude that attracts him?.......Sgt. E. F. Shallenkamp who
has been in the hospital for sometime was
today transferred out of the squadron. “Ed” has been with the
outfit from time of activation and will be
missed by all, particularly his many comrades in the Armament
section......The following new combat
crews arrived in the squadron today: 1st Lt. Thomas J. Doyle, 2nd
Lt. Harry P. Naruszewicz, 1st Lt.
Robert B. Alexander, S/Sgt. Paul A. Rupert, S/Sgt. Liebe Woodrow
and Sgt. William Isaacowitz......A
sizeable amount of mail came in today, including some Christmas
packages which were apparently lying
around in some remote spot since the early part of December......”Song
of the Island” was again shown
at the movies tonight......
10th
A beautiful morning with no apparent reason for a stand-down until
the wind shifted and brought forth
a deluge of rain lasting all afternoon and evening. It was a good
thing that our excursion to Pompeii
was scheduled for the morning or the few who signed up would have
reneged in the face of a
downpour. However, they beat the rain back after a fine morning in
the ruins......The usual vehicle
shortage occurred immediately after the stand-down was announced.
Towns most frequently visited on
such an occasion are Napoli (on official business), Pompeii, Torre
Annunziata and those not fortunate
enough to get a vehicle content themselves with the local vino
emporiums in Poggiomarino......Lt.
Rosenberg, Lt. Mayer, Lt. McCabe, S/Sgt. Micks and T/Sgt. Wynne
left for Naples today with their
final destination – THE CONTINENTAL LIMITS, after completing their
combat tour. Lt. Mayer was
so excited getting everything together that he forgot his orders
at the last minute and a messenger
chased all the way to Naples after him with the precious
documents......S/Sgt. Fleming put his “day off”
to good advantage by visiting our convalescents in the hospital.
He reports S/Sgt. Blume as being well
enough to bitch although he as every reason to with his arms and
leg in a cast. Cpl. Nelson is ready to
come home but swears he'd leave the tonsils in if he had to go
through it again and Cpl. Runyon is still
bedridden in a cast, after his flying leap out of a moving
jeep......Maj. Armistead returned from Catania
today in time to ground some more combat crew members at the end
of their tour......Cpl Ken Haddock
is discovering the possibilities of social life in Italy. He was a
guest at a dinner party given by his
laundress and spent a very enjoyable evening – no cause for his
pretty red-headed wife to worry though
as the oldest daughter is but 13 years. Unreeling at the theater
tonight was “A Tale of Two Cities” which
was a good picture in its day but unfortunately its day has long
since past......
11th
Heavy rains continued throughout the night and this morning.
Troops at the front are badly in need of
our support and in spite of the unfavorable weather, combat crews
were on the alert until 12:30 when
they were called for briefing. Rain, thunder, lightning and a
downpour of hail stones made takeoff an
impossibility and cancellation of the mission and a stand-down for
the rest of the day was declared.
Such days are depressing and most everyone sticks close to his
“sack,” although a number braved the
elements to attend a performance of “Andrea Chenier” at the San
Carlo Opera House......Cpl. Nelson
picked a bad day to return from the hospital, but nevertheless
happy to rejoin his comrades......The
generator in the squadron area which breaks down with regularity,
did a complete fade-out early today
and left us without lights practically all morning. However, the
Service Group came to our rescue as
usual, and it is now in working order at least for a time......It
couldn't happen anyplace but in the Air
Corps. Two T/Sgts., Bob Copeland and Alfred “Newt” Bunn were both
on the serving line in the mess hall
today where any Pvt. could say “Easy on the gravy” and they'd have
to grin and bear it......
12th
Twelve of our ships took off at 1033 hours this morning to bomb a
road and railroad junction at
Compoleone, Italy. Capacity bomb load was dropped directly on the
target area from 9400'. 100% hits
were recorded on the road, railway junction and station. Ack-ack
was heavy, intense and accurate,
holing eleven of our ships and knocking one out over the target.
The ship was last seen in distress with
one 'chute opening, although other formation report seeing all six
'chutes in the air upon leaving the
target area. Time and time alone will assure us of the fate of our
absent comrades. The ship was
crewed by: 1st Lt. J.W. Boston, pilot; 2nd Lt. C. H. Chandler,
co-pilot; 1st Lt. R. B. Alexander,
bombardier; Sgt. W. Liebe, radio-gunner, Sgt. W. Isaacowitz,
gunner and S/Sgt. P. A. Rupert, tailgunner......
Fourteen men from the squadron left at 9:30 A.M. intending to take
the Funicular up to
Vesuvius, but upon arrival at the station found that the storm has
curtailed all trips up to the volcano.
After departing the question for some little time they decided to
take the truck up as far as she'd go and
walk the remainder of the way. Italian railroads are certainly
nothing to write home about as this seems
to be the case regularly. However, all seemed to enjoy the healthy
hike in spite of complete exhaustion
upon return. Donuts and hot coffee were served by our Red Cross
unit after the tiresome tour. Lt.
Linthicum got half way up but was forced to turn back when his
leather soles refused to hold him in a
vertical position. Capt. Bugbee admits an abundance of mountain
climbing which will last him a good
two years. Cpl. Bartkus will have a weighty package on the way
home in a few days judging from the
quantity of lava rock he brought back. He regretted that the snow
couldn't be mailed along with the
rocks to make everything complete......Someone in the Cooks tent
located a corny fiddle and music of
the barn dance variety was heard coming from their tent.
Enthusiasm wasn't great as most of the boys
favor sophisticated swing........The officers club threw a big
dance tonight with gals, liquor and colored
jive band which accounted for the dressed up appearance throughout
the squadron. Cpl. Fred
“Fearless” Reck earned his nickname today as far as all are
concerned. Half an hour after the planes
returned from today's mission, minus one ship and reporting flak
as more accurate and deadly than
anything to date he asked for permission to become a gunner on a
combat crew. He must be
determined to get home one way or another......
13th
Supplies and M/T [Motor Transport i.e. trucks] south of Rome
received a terrific bombardment from
twelve of our ships this morning at 0945 hours when 45 x 1000 lb
bombs were released from 11200'.
Four or five large explosions emitting black smoke were observed
on terrain covered by our bombs in
the target area. No fight opposition was encountered, but ack-ack
was heavy, intense and accurate. 7M
(Tuff Stuff) received a direct hit in the bomb bay and was seen to
land on the beach a blazing inferno.
The fate of the crew: T/O C. R. Keogh, pilot; 2nd Lt. L. M. Lewis,
co-pilot; 2nd Lt. C. C. Klujsza,
bombardier; T/Sgt. R. J. Rosato, radio-gunner; S/Sgt. J J. Weber,
gunner; S/Sgt. D. A. Click, tailgunner,
is unknown......Two nurses from the Naples area were seen in the
squadron area. Their primary
purpose was to visit Capt Birmingham......Col. Jones was also a visitor
to the squadron, but no meeting
was called. However, Maj. Parsons relayed his message that the
entire group would shortly be equipped
with new planes. A good break for combat crews and maintenance men
alike......Communication men
took a truck into Torre Annunziata tonight, a custom which is
becoming a habit with them. A good meal,
multa vino and a bevy of beautiful women is said to be the reason.
Cpl. “Shorty” Hausmann claims a
love match in the town and the strange thing is that the girl
still professes Virginity......The dispensary
posted a bulletin board notice “Will V.D. be one of your
souvenirs?” Quite apropos as it is feared that
many of the Italian Signorina's would willingly leave it among our
souvenirs......Crime does not pay is
S/Sgt. Harasavich's motto from now on. He recently acquired a pair
of shoes from supply by some
underhanded method and now that one of our Eyetie friends has
stolen the foot hear, Harry is up the
creek. He can't report the robbery as questions might prove
embarrassing......
“Parachute Battalion” was the movie thriller tonight......
14th
Perugia marshaling yards, at 1012 hours felt the impact of 15x1000
and 6x500 lb bombs dropped by six
487th ships with precision accuracy. Bomb pattern fell across
marshaling yards starting at the buildings
in the center of the yards and extending across the tracks.
Ack-ack was heavy, intense and accurate
although only one ship was holed. One enemy twin engine aircraft
was sighted over Perugia A/D, but
upon being fired on by one of our gunners turned away......2nd Lt.
Lewis, 2nd Lt. Klujsza and T/O Keogh
who bailed out of their crippled ship on mission of yesterday,
returned to the fold today none the worse
after their harrowing experience. All were picked up by a
destroyer after swimming around in the cold
water for an hour. S/Sgt. Click, tail-gunner of the crew is in the
hospital. No word has been received
on T/Sgt. Rosato and S/Sgt. Weber who were also in the plane at
the time......Valentine Day this year
held no appeal – lacking the customary spirit with its satin
covered, heart shaped boxes and the absence
of the lovely ladies to be the recipients, but much mention was
made of the fact that one year ago today
we boarded the S.S. West Point – destination unknown......Five
combat crew members were feeling
quite gay after consuming the pint o imported from the States
whiskey, which they received upon
completion of their 55th mission “generously” donated by Maj.
Armistead, M.D......The first vehicle
inspection ever held in the squadron took place today by
representatives of the 19th Service Group who
appeared satisfied with the excellent work done by our motor pool
staff......2nd Lt. Roland D. Curley, 2nd
Lt. James L. Williams, F/O Edward R. Deere, S/Sgt. Henry J.
McClernon, Sgt. John T. Raschetz and
Sgt. Leonard R. Robinson arrived to strengthen our combat crew
status......”Honolulu Lu” starring Leo
Carillo was the “distraction” at the movies tonight......
15th TOP
The Abbey on Monte Cassino, which the Germans were shrewdly using
as a Fortress was the target for
six of our ships today. The formation was over the target at 1059
hours, forming a good pattern and
dropped their 23x1000 bombs with excellent results, although
several bombs fell short of the target and
landed on the slopes of the monastery. Several explosions and
large fires were observed emitting from
the building. Ack-ack was heavy, slight and inaccurate. All ships
and crews returned safely to the
base......A new portable Victrola, which Sgt. Stellato happened
upon on one of his many excursions was
purchased for the Day Room. Its a neat little Italian made job and
no doubt will get much use – here's
hoping it can “take” it......T/Sgt. Pitonyak and Peterson have
completed their combat tour and are
celebrating their good fortune via the “bottle,” which both say is
now their best friend......Cpl. McBride
suffered an embarrassing moment today. While driving the weapons
carrier on some mission he
became annoyed at the driver of an Eyetie sedan and upon passing
the sedan he put forth language
unbecoming a member of the Air Force – much to his discomfort a
shiny gold star adorned the shoulder
of one passenger. Cpl. McBride will from now on, stop, look and
listen......In spite of much
unfavorable criticism “Honolulu Lu” was again unreeled at the
movies tonight......
16th
Six ships took off at 0920 to bomb the marshaling yards at Orte,
Italy, but failing to meet their escort
returned to the base with all but 2x1000 bombs which were
jettisoned in the sea. At 1330 hours nine of
our ships and crews took off to plaster the marshaling yards at
Campoleone, but due to a very heavy
cloud coverage the target was completely obscured and the six
ships of the first formation held their
bombs fearing that they might endanger our own troops. The
remaining three ships made up the lead
element of the last formation which dropped their bombs north of
the target, possibly hitting the road
leading north from the target. Cloud coverage obscured
observations to any accurate degree. Ack-ack
was heavy, intense and accurate, holing five of our ships. All
ships and crews returned safely to the
base......After completion of a successful tour of combat S/Sgts.
R. S. Berry and c. W. Sentlingar are
homeward bound......S/Sgt Lepley is back at work today after a
sojourn in the hospital......New combat
crew members joined the squadron in abundance today coming from
the 321st and 12th Bomb Groups
while others are fresh from the States. New members are: S/Sgts.
J. T. Ferraro, T. B. Read; Sgts. R. E.
Gerhardt, H. C. Hunt, J. W. Ikner, Cpls. B. B. Burton, and O. O.
Stokes....The 1st Sgt. found difficulty
in quartering the men and distributed them evenly in all available
tents and rooms. In fact he even
called S-2 to inquire as to whether S/Sgt. Snaper had room-mates
with which to discuss his
ulcers......Promotions today were the cause for all the gaiety
throughout the evening. Among the
officers Lt. Hague made captain and Capt. Schreiner his majority.
Enlisted men to become T/Sgts.
were: Casey, Gammage, Grantham, Henderson, Floyd, Wood and
Mathurin. The shock was apparently
too great for Gammage and he went to the hospital. Those to make Staff
were: Iwan, Longwedel,
Holzman and R. L. Johnson...... Sgt. Bernstein almost wept as his
two weeks of labor on the shower
burned to a crisp. Fortunately no one was bathing when the
gasoline stove burst into flame devouring
all wood accessories. however, Bornstein feels that he can repair
it in time for hot showers
tomorrow......Group Special Service sent down ten tickets for the
musicale “It's a Date” at the Air Corps
Theater in
must have been knocking around
favorite Slim Summerville......
17th
At 10:15 six of our ships took off to bomb supplies and M/T [Motor
Transport i.e. trucks] beyond the
bomb line at: PP's F-917494 and F-923490. Due to a complete cloud
coverage visibility was nil and all
bombs were brought back. A second mission had been figured on, but
under the circumstances it was
impossible and a stand-down for the rest of the day was declared......S/Sgt.
Taylor returned from a three
day pass in Naples. His greatest thrill was in seeing an American
woman in civilian clothes which was
accomplished at the
credited to American women under the unfavorable
circumstances......The squadron acquired a piano
today which almost completes the music shop effect in the Day
Room. A plan for securing other
musical instruments is now under way and if successful, a squadron
band will be organized......A little
diversion was added to the opera today attended by 30 of our men.
Cavellerio Rusticana was the short
opera with two ballets, “Bolero and Dance of the Hours.” All
criticism was favorable and everyone
seemed to enjoy the performance......Pork chops for dinner today
really hit the spot. Only complaint is
that there was only one per man......Mail is picking up here of
late in fact we're getting it in bundles –
old stuff......”Jane Eyre” in its new version starring Orson Wells
and Joan Fontaine played to a satisfied
crowd at the movies tonight......
18th
Today the target for six of our ships was M/T [Motor Transport
i.e. trucks], supplies and troops at PP
F-679557. Shortly after takeoff one ship, 7S returned to the base due
to mechanical failure. The
remaining ships were over the target at 1001 hours and dropped
their bombs with a fair degree of
accuracy. All bombs were dropped in the target area, but fell just
short of an to the southeast of aiming
point. One building in the target area just south of the aiming
point was observed to be on fire. No
ack-ack or fighter opposition was encountered and all ships and
crews returned home safely......The
Rest camp on the Isle of Capri has been reopened after being “off
limits” for more than a month due to
the Typhus epidemic and several combat crew members and a few of
the ground personnel departed for
a few days well earned rest......Sgt. Liphardt has apparently won
the heart of his laundress. We hear she
placed his photograph in a “reserved” spot of her treasured family
album......A Catholic Memorial
Service for all lost 340th Group personnel was held this morning
at 10:30 in one of the local churches.
Poor management was responsible for the lacking congregation.
Nobody was aware of the fact and
ninety-five percent are still unaware that it ever took place.
Members of all faiths were invited to
attend. The church which was heavily draped in deep mourning and
displayed an American Flag
covered catafalque. It was too bad that the Group didn't make a
better showing although it was through
no fault of their own that they didn't......Congratulations are in
order for Roger L. Johnson who
regained his Staff rating. Next time he gets “tight” maybe he'll
know enough to keep away from
“trucks”......”Dutch” Huyser took his first extended leave today
since he's been overseas – 3 days at
Capri. Mike Tarkany and Harry Harasavich also got in on the same
deal......”Jane Eyre” was repeated
to a capacity crowd at the movies tonight......
19th
Two missions today. First flight of six planes took off at 0835 to
bomb supplies and troop
concentrations at PP's F-890340, 893336, 899349 and 900338. The
formation was over the designated
area at 0950 hours and dropped their bombs with fair success. One
large explosion was observed in the
target area. Unidentified planes believed to be enemy dive bombers
were observed over beach at
Anzio, apparently being fired upon by our A/A guns. Ack-ack was
heavy, intense and inaccurate. No
ships were holed and planes and crews returned safely......Second
mission was in the air at 1423 hours
with supplies, troop concentrations and M/T at Carroceta, Italy,
as the target for six of our ships. At
1525 hours the formation planted their bombs in the desired spot
causing many fires and explosions.
No ack-ack or other enemy opposition was encountered. Planes and
crews returned to the base intact
from the “milk run”......Sgt. Jack L. Parks, engineer-gunner,
departed today for his new position with
the XII Bomber Command......”Jock” Duchaineau was a sorry looking
soldier this morning after his
“over-night” visit to Naples. Too much action, little
man?......M/Sgt. “Pappy” Lynch blew his top when
he was passing out the “Why Not Prostitute” circulars today and
found one of the crew chiefs
entertaining a member of the oldest profession in his
tent......T/Sgt. Paul Hofman is very busy these
days keeping his ship in commission so that he can “pito” up the
missions. He now leads the squadron
with a total of 90 on “Rum-Dum,” and at the rate he's going, he'll
soon lead the group......A group of the
boys today paid a visit to Caserta. If the returning hour is any
indication of a good time – Caserta must
have a lot to offer in the way of entertainment.......
20th
Six shops and crews took off at 0915 to bomb ammunition and supply
dumps at PP's F-890340,
899349, 903338, 893336. Shortly after takeoff two of our planes
returned to the field due to
mechanical failure, but the remaining four proceeded to the target
and dropped their bombs at 0951
hours. due to the fact that our lead plane with navigator and the
only photo of the target given to the
squadron had to return to the base, it was necessary for the
bombardier of another ship to take over and
he had no photograph of the target. This bombardier believed that
he hit northeast of the target on the
north side of the railway track. However, other observers in the
crews were of the opinion that our
bombs fell alongside the highway on the right side, but well north
of the target area on same highway
about 500 yds. north. Our pattern caused an explosion and fire was
seen to emit from same. Ack-ack
was heavy, intense and moderately accurate. Two of our ships were
slightly holed, but all returned
safely to their home field......Six ships and crews were off again
at 1355 hours to destroy supplies and
ammunition close to the bomb line. The target was reached at 1438
hours, but due to a very heavy
cloud coverage the formation held its bombs because of the great possibility
of endangering our troops.
No ack-ack or other enemy opposition was encountered and planes
with their bomb load and crews
intact arrived safely back to the base.......Cpl. Roy McKinney and
T/Sgt. Holmstrom returned from the
hospital resolved to be “good” boys from now on......F/O's
Griffiths, Over & McLaughlin after
completing their combat tour, left this morning for the Zone of
the Interior and rehabilitation.......A
meeting of all section-heads was called this afternoon and while
the matters discussed were of a
confidential nature, it was disclosed that all sections will
submit a report on amount of space, etc.
required for shipping their equipment to where & why – that's
the secret, but time will tell......S/Sgt.
Wilbur Snaper our S-2 section-chief left today for North Africa
and a 5 day course in Aircraft
Recognition. A short course indeed, but anything “Wilbur” can't
learn thoroughly in 5 days is not worth
knowing......”High Explosives” was the “current” attraction at the
movies tonight......
21st
Stand-down for the entire Group was declared last night.
Apparently the reason was to hold the three
classes in Aircraft Recognition scheduled for all combat crew and
S-2 personnel at the Group briefing
quarters. This rather shattered rumors of our going to Burma as
there wasn't one single Japanese
Aircraft in evidence throughout the lectures.......Rumors are fast
and furious as to our destination, but
England seems to be leading the latrine information at present.
It's true that time alone will tell
although it will be a pretty sad story.....Mr. Robinson, the Group
Red Cross representative was down to
the squadron today making final arrangements to supply the donuts
for our squadron banquet tomorrow
night. He inquired as to the moral tone of the entertainment – the
girls will not be present to pass out the
donuts......Sgts. Powell and Stellato went on a mission to Naples
in search of the “lovelies” who are to
add zest to the show. With Powell's loud talk and Stellato's
knowledge of the language they should
make some good contacts......Since the piano has become a part of
the day-room, Cpl. Pabis has been
spending a lot of time trying to pick up his lost
technique......Sgt. Greg Moore made a test hop with Lt.
Hauser today and came back with everything but what he had eaten
for the last few days. From his bed
this evening he professed a good time – we don't believe
it.....S/Sgt. Leslie Cruze was pre-celebrating
the squadron party tonight. At
an old maid on a back fence......
22nd TOP
Foligno road and rail junction was the target for six of our ships
today. They were over the target at
1134 hours dropping their bombs with only a fair degree of
accuracy. The pattern landed east of the
choke point starting just beyond the railroad and extended on and
along the road leading east from the
choke point. Our formation encountered no ack-ack and there were
no casualties.......All day was spent
in preparation for the “
following a spaghetti dinner which was excellent. However, the
entertainment, all but the band, failed
to show up and a few of the G.I.'s volunteered to do their bit. By
this time everybody was feeling their
drinks and the hill-billy renditions could barely be heard. T/Sgt.
Wood got up to lead the band and by
the time the number was over Sgt. Wood had his clothes off to the
amusement of all. The “girls” from
Torre Annunziata arrived later and did their bit towards
entertaining the boys minus costumes. They
were definightly more vulgar than risqué. However, everyone seemed
to enjoy themselves especially
Sgt. Wood's performance. 1st Sgt. Parkins was master of
ceremonies. Col. Jones was guest of
honor...... Group guard is starting again and now has five of our
men. Why the Group has never had a
guard detachment assigned to the organization has always been a
puzzle. Pulling men from their
regular duties doesn't tend to raise the efficiency, but does have
a definight tendency towards lowering
the morale of all concerned......So strong was the Vino tonight
that it had practically the entire
Communications section singing merrily at the wee hours to the
accompaniment of Sgt. Prichard's
violin......Tensest moment of the evening was when Grover Cooper,
very intoxicated, changed his mind
about fighting Capt. Coyle and decided instead to “goose” Major
Johnson, Group Material Officer.
Fortunately, the Major took it all in fun......Bill Dutchick was
in Naples today on “official business,” to
celebrate his wedding anniversary – the second one in a row
without his wife. He'll be around
tomorrow morning drinking black coffee, no doubt......The G.I.
show “Hey Rookies” is playing at the
Group theater tonight and tomorrow evening for a repeat
performance......
23rd
Mission scheduled this morning was called off at Group briefing
due to heavy weather. It was a
gloomy, dull morning with intermittent showers throughout the day
– no good for operational activities
on the front......A stand-down brought forth more aircraft
recognition classes to the distaste of all
concerned......Nobody felt any too good this morning after last
night's orgy. 1st Sgt. Parkins said that the
women performers provided him with the best sex lecture he ever
had. All have definightly decided that
they've had enough partying to last them for sometime......Lt. A.
J. King was transferred back to Group
on paper which creates no difference in the Squadron because we
saw so little of him as S-2 section
head during his brief stay......T/Sgt. Joe Walsh is on the Isle of
Capri for a few days rest and doesn't
know that he is now a Master. The Communications section chief has
been sweating it out long enough
now so it shouldn't be too great shock......Details were down at
the old Tomato factory all day cleaning
up after last night's celebration. That's the only trouble with
G.I. affairs – the policing detail that
always follows......Lt. Tasker, Squadron Supply and Motor Pool
Officer is one of our most profound
mail enthusiasts. In civilian life Lt. Tasker was a Mortician and
his brother continues to send obituaries
from the home town paper. It's hard to figure out whether he's
counting the money taken in or lost on
the deal......”Road to Morocco” played at the movie tonight for
about the 12th time since we've been
overseas......Mike Tarkany played “King for a Day” for just about
one minute when Major Schreiner
insisted upon changing hats with Mike and then snapped to
attention, saluting “Major Tarkany.” All
this, of course, took place while under the influence of
intoxicating beverages at the party last night......
24th
At 1013 hours six planes of the 487th squadron took off to bomb
the Airdrome at Fabrica, Italy. It was a
little hazy over the target, but crews reported a good bomb
pattern covering the southwest portion of
east landing area which was the target for this squadron. The
pattern was believed to have covered
some of the aircraft observed on the ground. Ack-ack was slight
and inaccurate. There were no
casualties......Major Armistead is seen daily practicing his
Italian lingo while sitting in the ambulance in
front of the dispensary. It was first thought that he was
practicing facial contortions, but later proved to
be just over enthusiasm......S/Sgt. Al Paradis returned from Capri
tonight with a new lease on life. The
main reason for his broad smile was the wonderful bed, excellent
food, and the feeling thorough
relaxation. He admits that the bed took up one afternoon that
should have been spent viewing the Blue
Grotto......Capt. Bugbee returned from Catania with more of those
delectable blood oranges. They go
like hot-cakes at the squadron P.X.......A rumor is spreading that
the boys will have to fly over fifty
missions which isn't going over too big......Rumor has it also
that the 12th Group is now in England and
replacing its ground personnel, - Music to the ears of
all......Again at the movie tonight was “Road to
Morocco.”
25th
A heavy rainfall all day, continuing throughout the night, kept
everyone who had no other business in
their respective quarters. A very depressing day, but spirits were
lifted with two mail calls – one at
from the good old
were devoured with much satisfaction......In spite of the
inclement weather, a group of the boys
attended the opera in Naples. “Pagliacci” was the main feature
with the “Bolero” as an added
attraction. The opera was only fair and the Bolero absolutely
“stinko.” The dancers so far witnessed at
the famous opera house can in no way be compared to the graceful
artists performing on stages in our
own country......Carl Heitzman made a noble experiment last night.
He didn't have anything edible in the
tent excepting a can of meat & beans to feed his newly
acquired dog, so he fed her the G.I. ration only
to discover the reaction was the same as from a human who eats
beans – the dog spent the night out in a
pup tent......Cpl. Balawedjer is back on the line as an A.M. after
serving in a number of capacities other
than his specialty, since our days at Sfax......Sgt. Hetzner is
sleeping very comfortably these nights with
his head resting on a pillow thoughtfully presented by one of the
local belles. The same Belle has also
given Hetzner a few trinkets to send home to his “Mama.” The
friendship is purely platonic as the
girl's husband is also a good friend of said Sgts......”The
Amazing Mr. Williams” was presented at the
movies tonight. A good picture and thoroughly enjoyed, although it
was seen by most for the second
time......
26th
Today was another gloomy, depressing, rainy day and a stand-down
was declared early in the morning.
Combat crew members took advantage of the past few non-operational
days by catching up on their
sleep and ground personnel who had no other duties passed the
uneventful day by reading, writing
home and of course getting in a little “sack” time......The boys
on the line are preparing the basketball
court, but unfavorable weather halted the proceedings for the time
being. The next few days should
find the game in full swing as all are particularly anxious to
engage in the favorite sport......The motor
pool has become a favorite lounging spot since it was learned that
they mysteriously acquired a barrel
of Vino. Tom Bowden says “At last we're getting on the ball around
here, but we should find out the
donors name & address so the barrel can be refilled at regular
intervals”......There was no movie as the
theater was reserved by the British to celebrate a special
occasion......
27th
Combat Crews were alerted at 6:50 this morning, but the mission
was postponed at Group briefing due
to a heavy could coverage. They were on stand-by until
downpour made it necessary to again declare a stand-down for the
rest of the day......Sgts. Clarkson,
Casey and Bradley returned from an extended stay on the Isle of
Capri. They left the squadron with a
seven day pass but upon expiration of that time they
“accidentally” miss the boat and couldn't catch
another one for four more days. All were much impressed by the
meals, conveniences etc. offered on
the Isle and were sorry that they finally had to get out, but
nevertheless grateful for the extra days spent
in the pleasant surroundings. S/Sgt. Lawrence C. Lambert and
S/Sgt. James D. Saunders are new
members assigned to the squadron as of this date. However, Sgt.
Saunders is on DS with the 12th
Bomber Command and we haven't had the pleasure of meeting him in person......Our
mess-hall supply
tent was broken into sometime after dark and relieved of a
quantity of Flour and Meat – tow items
which in these times are hard to procure. The Provost Marshall is
hot on the tail of the culprit and if
caught with the goods, will be severely dealt with......S/Sgt.
George Barankovich missed his plane
coming back from Malta and was stranded in the best Robinson
Crusoe manner, except that we don't
think he had a “Man-Friday” more than likely it was a
“Girl-Friday,” and for the week-end too......”The
Amazing Mr. Williams” was repeated at the theater tonight to a
small group, due possibly to the bad
weather......
28th
Mission today for six of our planes and crews was a landing ground
at Canino, Italy. The formation
was over the designated area at 1210 hours, but due to cloud
coverage it was impossible to observe the
complete bomb pattern. It is believed that some hits were obtained
in the north area bounding the
dispersal area and also the north landing strip. Ack-ack was
heavy, moderate and accurate over the
target, but no ships were holed. However, on the way home, the
formation encountered a heavy and
accurate barrage about three miles south of Gaeta which slightly
holed two planes and inflicted a severe
cut on the head of S/Sgt. Crosby, radio-gunner......A/A guns on
the field opened up at 2000 hours tonight
and had everyone scurrying for cover in anticipation of the the
bombs to be dropped in the immediate
vicinity. However, it turned out to be only practice firing – much
to the disgust of some who are eager
for excitement, and a relief for the more timid members of our
group.......2nd Lt. O'Neill, after
completing his combat tour, left bag & baggage on the first
leg of his trip back to the Unightd States and
the waiting arms of a certain school teacher in Vermont......”Lady
Takes A Chance” starring Jean Arthur
and John Wayne was the picture shown at the movies tonight. An
excellent picture that proved very
entertaining and quite a change from those shown previously this
month......
Bad weather once again made a scheduled early morning mission
impossible. Intermittent rains all
morning caused a stand-down at 12:30, but shortly thereafter the
skies cleared and it was decided to
take advantage of the brief respite and let our enemy know we were
still around. Consequently, six of
our planes and crews took off at 1550 hours to bomb the area north
of Cisterna, Italy. at PP F-99360.
The formation dropped their bomb load on the designated area at
1638 hours. Our bombs fell on the
Cisterna-Velletri road immediately south of the target area and
extended north through the target area.
Ack-ack was heavy, intense and accurate, holing five of our ships.
All planes and crews returned safely
to the base......The new outdoor basketball court is bringing out
some potential stars – Charlie Truex,
Harold Huffman and Al Spader show particularly good form. About
the only thing the court has
brought out in most of us is those stiff muscles.......T/Sgt.
“Teddy” Handzel got that well deserved
promotion to Crew Chief. He supervises the crew on #442 and is
very happy with his
appointment......T/Sgt. Horwitz is pretty sure of that California
cutie since he learned that all her
luggage has been monogrammed “N.T.H.” - in anticipation......Ralph
Hoff's proudest possession, his
plane, has been officially named “#1 OK,” which is exactly the
usual status of his charge.......Baked
Virginia Ham for dinner today resulted in many favorable comments
on the vast improvement of our
meals lately, although there wasn't enough for everyone and
late-comers received the old standby
“Spam”......”Lady Takes A Chance” was repeated at the movies
tonight to a capacity audience in spite of
the bad weather......
Aircraft and personnel highlighted in photos included in this war
diary:
Page 18:
‘Tuff Stuff’
S/Sgt. Holzman
T/Sgt. Warrington
2nd Lt. Chandler
T/Sgt. Peterson
T/Sgt. Gammage
Lt. O'Neill
Page 19:
‘Rum Dum’
T/Sgt. Casey
Lt. Miles
T/Sgt. Pitonyak
Lt. Gellman
Major Parsons
Capt. Hague
Page 20:
‘Rum Dum’
Lt. Gellman
Lt. Miles
T/Sgt. Hurney
Major Parsons
Page 21:
Communications Crew
T/Sgt. Carter
Cpl. Conwill
Sgt. Custer
S/Sgt. Larsen
M/Sgt. Walsh
Sgt. Prichard
S/Sgt. Kenney
Lt. Winebrenner
Cpl. Melia
Sgt. J. A. Smith
Cpl. Grupp
Page 22:
M/Sgt. Gould
M/Sgt. Metz
M/Sgt. Lynch
M/Sgt. Cooper
Lt. Oliver
Capt. Coyle
Page 23:
Engineering Office Photograph
S/Sgt. Dutchick
Sgt. Goodrich
Sgt. Keister
M/Sgt. Gould
Lt. Badgett
Lt. O'Neill
Major Schreiner
Capt. Coyle
M/Sgt. Lynch
Page 24:
‘Tare Sugar’
Cpl. Glenn
Cpl. McBride
S/Sgt. Barankovich
Cpl. Ellman
Page 25:
‘Rosie’
T/Sgt. Grantham
Cpl. Highland
T/Sgt. Johnston
Sgt. Grossman
S/Sgt. Horwitz
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
March 1944
[Transcriber's note: Some entries are truncated. Especially the
opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions, etc. Please see the original document for the
full details.]
War Diary, 487th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley,
487th BS.
J. Members who have distinguished themselves in action (March
1944)
1. Robert J. Forrester
2. Delbert A. Click
3. Luke J. Crosby Jr.
4. Henry J. McClernon
No war diary included for March 1944.
487th Squadron Album of
Capt. Chas. Cook
April and May 1944 continue below...
I. Losses in Action,
1. Gerald U. Ashmore
2. Billy B Barker
3. Hamilton E. Finney
4. Robert B. Hicks
5. George J. Simpson
6. Arsene H. Vervacke
7. Julius W. Ikner
8. Jesse S. Klein
9. Donald H. Pinkerton
10. John T. Raschetz
11. Stanley Tulin
12. Bernard A. Burton
J. Members who have distinguished themselves in action
1. Lewis F. Parsons
2. Casimir C. Klujsza
3. Charles N. Tessier
4. Billie Jo Barry
5. Raymond G. Hobson
6. Curtis R. Keogh
7. Milton L. Gammage
8. Daniel F. Gillis
9. Francis M. Barnes
10. Frank A Hurney
11. Edward S. Johnston
12. Delbert A. Click
13. Lovell T. Gordon
14. Theodore C. Iwan
15. Edward F. O'Neill
16. Homer H. Willhite
17. Leslie M. Lewis
18. Archibald P. Samuels
19. Austin E. Chandler
20. John E. Blume
21. Ray J. Rosato
22. Thurman R. Vinyard
23. Lewis R. Shields
24. Arsene H. Vervacke
25. John J. Weber
At 12:55 six B-25's of the 487th squadron took off to bomb a
railroad bridge N.W. Of Orvieto.
Scattered clouds covered the target which was responsible for the
pattern falling approximately 1000'
short of the bridge. Heavy, moderate but inaccurate anti-aircraft
fire took no toll in the formation and
all planes returned safely to the base.....Maj. Parsons and 1st
Sgt. Parkins held an unexpected tent
inspection which is not the custom and the results were quite a
revelation. Four tents in the area were
found to be completely out of order although nothing but a warning
has resulted......Men were paid
between 1:00 and 3:00 P.M. followed by the customary exchange of
money either through debts or a
crap game. A man and his money are soon parted should be the
slogan of several of our gamblers who
always seem to be on the losing side......A wire has been received
in the Group from General Cannon
complimenting the organization on its quick recovery from our
recent disaster [Vesuvius eruption]. It is almost amazing how quickly 340th
planes were in the air after such a happening but it just goes to show that you
can't
down a good outfit. The 487th now has 15 planes which consists of
two originals, gifts of the 321st, old
jobs from the 12th and some new ones......About a five minute walk
from the squadron area is an
American cemetery named Mt. Soprano where numerous crosses and
stars mark the spot where many
of our fallen comrades lay having given up their lives for the
four freedoms. Although we've been
overseas a year past, it takes a sight like this to really bring the
war home as is the common expression.
Everyone who has taken the time out to visit the plot and to pay
their respects say “It's a sight you'll
never forget”......F/O Paul N. Spencer was this date promoted to
the rank of Second
Lieutenant......”Crystal Ball” with Paulette Goddard was the
attraction at the movie tonight......
2nd
Another attempt was made today to destroy the railroad bridge N.W.
of Orvieto. At 11:02 hours six B-
25's of the 487th squadron were over the target to drop their
24x1000 lb bomb load. Bombs from the
first element landed beyond the target with the second element
possibly scoring hits on the bridge.
Moderate, heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire damaged four
ships. However, there were no hits
scored on crew members and all returned safely to the
base......For the first Sunday since our arrival at
Guado, church services were held as scheduled. Chaplin Cooper
presided over the Protestant Service
in the warehouse and an English speaking Italian priest said Mass
at a little church in the area. No
palm was passed to either of th congregations, but some of the
boys were wearing it, having obtained it
from Italian Pizons......Group showers are now open to personnel of
the 340th which is really a break for
the 321st. Up until now everyone has been using their little three
spout hot-house job......The squadron
area looked almost like the warming up period before a big game at
Wrigley field. Officers and
enlisted men were throwing every available ball from one end of
the place to the other......Capt Gellman
tells an amusing story of how he was unable to get a PFC rating
for over a year before entering the Air
Corps. It's on the same order of “Local boys makes good”......T/Sgt.
R.E. Clarkson was honorable
discharged from the army today in order to accept a commission as
Second Lieutenant......Lt. Clarkson
spent most of the day shaking the hand of well wishers......2nd
Lt. C.C. Klujsza went off the gold
standard today for the silver......Due to great crowds at the show
lately a new idea was inaugurated
tonight - “The Fallen Sparrow” with John Garfield was shown at
7:00 and again at 9:00 P.M.......
3rd
The 487th sent twelve ships into the air this morning to attack the
railroad bridge N.W. of Orvieto for
the third consecutive day. First box bombed beyond the bridge to
the west of the target while the
second element returned with their bombs unable to find the target
due to complete cloud coverage.
Ack-ack was heavy, meager and inaccurate although it holed one
ship......Al Kosak is rather fed up with
Italian fishing after not even getting a nibble in his two
attempts. He explains that the man at the Creek
says they'll have to get there around 4:00 A.M. in order to catch
anything, but according to Al “it ain't
worth it”......Money orders were being purchased over in the Group
operations building all day. Rather
than going around to each squadron as was formerly the custom, the
entire Group was serviced with the
new method. From all general appearances the boys will send home
more money than ever before
since our arrival in Sicily and Italy, as there just isn't any
place to spend it in this location unless some
smart Eyetie opens a vino shop in the vicinity......Cpl. Stephens
moves out to the line today amidst
double trouble. First “Bill” had trouble getting transportation
and then after finally getting it packed
with his equipment it refused to run – adjectives used to try and
start the vehicle are no worthy of
print......Sophie, the “line boys” girl friend carries change
around in a huge suitcase according to
Malcolm MacKenzie who must speak from experience.....Maj. Parsons'
jeep now resembles an
accordion rather than a vehicle after being packed up in Torre
Annunziata where the thieves ran into a
stationary object. No further information is available at
present....Pvt. Robert Morrison returned from
the hospital today completely recovered from injuries received in
a recent jeep accident......2nd Lt. J.P.
O'Toole returned from Bombardment Training Center at Telergma
where he has been on detached
service for the past 33 days......”The Fallen Sparrow” was
repeated at the movies tonight.......
4th
Six B-25's of the 487th squadron were over Perugia A/D at 1130
hours, but to no avail. Due to a 10/10
cloud coverage over the primary target, Perugia A/D, and also a
10/10 coverage over the alternate at
Orte, bombs were brought back and neither target was bombed. No
opposition was encountered and all
ships returned safely to the base....Supply handed out new gas
masks at chow this
our old ones. They are lighter and less cumbersome although the
terrific interest in chemical resistance
of late denotes the possibility of the use of gas by the Germans when
the situation becomes
critical......Lt. Fleming, our newly made second lieutenant, seems
to possess a certain fascination for
attempting to parlate Italiano with the local population. His
subject of the day, trying to convince Lt.
Fleming that he wanted cigarettes said, “Capito Signorina, Capito
vino, but no capito cigaretta”......A
meeting of all musicians in the Group was called at 7:00 P.M. for
the purpose of organizing a swing
band. Little “Moe” Ferraro is sponsoring the idea and is so
enthusiastic that he's humming out
arrangements for all or any willing listeners. Due to an
insufficient number of musicians in our Group,
the 321st is going to collaborate in order to turn out a solid
organization......No reason was given by
Group Special Services for the lack of a movie tonight.........
5th
A scheduled morning mission was postponed until
because of bad weather in the vicinity of our organization and all
available equipment was checked out
of Special Service. Unfortunately there was not sufficient base
ball gloves to meet the demand, but an
effort is being made to procure additional equipment to keep the
boys happy......Daylight saving is now
in effect and gives us a few more hours in the evening to bask in
the beauty of Sunny Italy......Sgt.
Liphardt caused a riot in the mess-hall at
in the nude – washing clothes is not the most profitable business
for a Signorina......Special Service was
quite busy these last few days taking orders for Mother's day
flowers and very few have forgotten the
one who raised her boy to be a soldier......Two 487th planes were
buzzing the field at intervals while
practicing for anticipated low altitude missions......Flight Officers,
Foster, Schooley, White, Chandler,
and Keogh were today honorably discharged from the Army to accept
commissions as Second
Lieutenants......Cpl. Runyon returned to the hospital after being
back with us only a short
time......”Swing Out” with Henry Aldrich unreeled to a jovial
crowd at the movies tonight. It was again
necessary to have two showings at 7:00 and 9:00 P.M.......
6th
An early mission had been scheduled and combat crew members had
early chow, but at 10:00 A.M. the
raid was postponed until afternoon. Takeoff was at 14:25 when ten
B-25/s of the 487th left the runway
to attack Perugia A/D. The formation was over the target at 17:17
hours dropping their entire bomb
load of 80x500's in a pattern which started short of the Airdrome
extending to the edge of the airfield.
It is believed that only two or three bombs may have hit in the
eastern dispersal area of the drome. All
ships were holed by an intense, accurate concentration of
anti-aircraft fire. 7K was hit over the target
and only two 'chutes were observed coming out of the ship before
it exploded upon contact with the
ground. 2nd Lts. B.B. Barker, R.B. Hicks, S/Sgt. A.H. Vervacke and
Sgts. S. Tulin, J.T. Raschetz and
D.H. Pinkerton were crew members of the ill fated bomber. 7T was
also crippled by ack-ack over the
target and was last seen aflame as it spiraled earthward. Four
'chutes left the plane which most
probably added four more men to the P of W list. 2nd Lts. G.U.
Ashmore, H.E. Finney, G.J. Simpson;
Sgts. J.W. Ikner, J.S. Klein and Cpl. B.A. Burton were crew
members aboard 7T. Sgt. Joe Ferraro
received an ankle injury from the bursting flack and is recovering
in the hospital. Sgt. Gerhardt
sustained a piece of flak in his thigh which had no serious
effects......Cpl. Wright and Pvt. A.D. Rice are
beautifying the squadron area during their tour of extra duty for
an unauthorized fling in Naples. One
can view them at almost anytime of the day with rake or shovel in
hand – extra duty is one way of
limiting details......Major Parsons reports his candy ration
stolen. He also admits being “P.O.” at the
whole incident......A detail of four officers left for Naples
tonight in order to be first in line for their ten
tickets to see “This is the Army.” If they secure them, forty
enlisted men of the organization will
witness the show tomorrow......340th Group provided no movie
tonight due to some unsolved controversy
over the film distribution........
7th
Today's mission, after being postponed several times finally took
off at 11:55 with a railroad bridge at
Ficulle, Italy, as their target. Six of our planes were over the
designated area at 14:10 hours and
dropped 24x1000 pounders, but sad to say, not very effectively. No
hits were scored on the bridge.
Some bombs were observed to have overshot the bridge and landed
about 300 ft. from the center of
bridge in the fields on the sough side of the target. Ack-ack was
heavy, moderate & accurate, slightly
holing three of our ships. All planes and crews returned safely to
the field......Forty men left the
squadron at 10:00 A.M. for Naples and the afternoon performance of
“This is the Army.” About five
miles this side of Pompeii the two trucks were intercepted by Lts.
Fleming and Evans who had been
patrolling the road in a jeep, to advise the merry group that no
tickets were procured. After whiling
away a few hours in Pompeii and Torre Annunziata the disappointed
boys returned to the squadron
hoping for another chance to see the much talked about G.I.
entertainment......It has been found
necessary to increase the guard on our planes. Four men on each
shift means that the most undesirable
detail will come too often.......For the second night in
succession the 340th Group had no picture to
entertain the lovers of the cinema......
8th TOP
Stand-by all morning until a raid was declared around
mies south of
due to the fact that selector switch was not on, the bombs
overshot the bridge and landed in the fields
approximately 1000 yds. southeast of the target. No enemy
opposition was encountered......Thirty-six
men and four officers of the squadron left the field at 10:00 A.M.
in another attempt to see “This is the
Army.” They arrived in Naples to find Capt. Bugbee and his three
associates had secured the tickets
for the gang. The show was more widely enjoyed than any
performance hitherto shown on the
continent or in Africa. It is now the desire of all to see “This
is the Army.” One truck enroute to
Naples was picked up by the British Red Caps for speeding at 38
miles an hour and they had a stop
watch to prove their point to Tony Niels, driver who said “Well
give us a ticket and let's get
going”......at
squadrons assembled for the purpose of decorating combat men of
the organization. It was an inspiring
ceremony with the ancient columns of Greek civilization providing
local color......The shoe-shine parlor
opened up today after a drive among the squadron's members for the
donation of shoe shining
paraphernalia......”Intermezzo” with Leslie Howard was sown at the
movies tonight.......
9th
Easter Sunday in Italy was typical of the same day at home when
the ladies of the land try to outdo one
another in the traditional Easter parade. The cloudy overcast
would have kept Italian women form
wearing their best if they had a best to wear. However, in spite
of the weather an impressive Sunrise
Service was celebrated in the Ancient Greek ruins of Paestum at
7:15 A.M. The garb worn was strictly
of the G.I. variety and lent little to the felling of a modern
Easter, but in this strange world of today
when peoples of all creeds are looking to God for peace, a simple
service with a devout purpose was
entirely in keeping......An early morning mission was scheduled
but was called off later when a stand down
was declared due to the weather conditions......Word has arrived
that we are to move within the
next few days and most probably the move will be by water to
Corsica. Much unfavorable discussion
of the Island is to be heard all over the area concerning the lack
of things to do over there, extremely
high prices and the unfriendly attitude of the inhabitants to say
nothing of the possibility of frequent
visits from the Luftwaffe. We have all heard so many about future
bases that a great deal of stock isn't
being taken in the idle chatter at least until experience tells us
otherwise......Capt. Birmingham finally
took Joe Perronne for his first plane ride and really put him
through the paces. Joe didn't get sick but
returned to the ground a mass of perspiration and content to
continue his duties in the mess-hall......
10th
487th sent six B-25's out at
over the target at
one possible direct hit on the north end of the bridge. No ack-ack
was encountered although two ME
109's were observed north of Terni, but didn't attack the
formation......The whistle blowing for work
details started early this morning in preparation for the
scheduled move. If it weren't for the details and
confusion involved everyone would enjoy an occasional move for a
change of routine, but
unfortunately the details take the fun out of it. The mess-hall
requires the most work and is therefore
avoided whenever possible by all concerned. However, it must all
be done and today is the day.
Personnel tents are not to come down until further notice......Lots
of packages and mail came in today
which is usually the custom when we're in the midst of a
move......An advanced party of 50 men left for
the docks at 5:00 P.M. to guard the heavy equipment sent down by
quartermaster trucks......2nd Lt.
Ernest Elsner went on DS to HQ 11th Depot Repair Squadron for
additional training in chemical
warfare......The Cairo carry-all took off today with 1st Lts.
Evans, Knapp, Langlois, Scheier; S/Sgts.
Powell, Click, Shields. Holzman and Kelly aboard for a week's leave
in the Utopia......
11th
An early morning mission was canceled in favor of a stand-down due
to undesirable raid
weather......There isn't much left to the squadron area other than
a single mess tent and the personnel
tents. All spent the morning waiting for the word to tear down
their tents when a meeting was called at
1:00 P.M. and we were instructed to have tents and baggage on
trucks by 3:00 P.M. for departure at
5:00 A.M. in the morning. Later the hour was changed to 12:30 A.M.
which made everybody feel
better when they could look forward to a normal night's rest. When
tents were all down the boys made
a mad scramble for shelter in the few buildings which previously
housed the different sections.
Fortunately with the aid of these and the tobacco warehouse all
were out of the elements for the night.
No lights and a minimum of accommodations sent most of the fellows
over to the 321st movie......Maj.
Parsons, Capt. Willhite and Sgt. Roger Lynch flew over to Alesan
Airfield this morning as an advanced
party to our new base......Moving this time didn't seem to involve
all the work that it usually does as out
set up at Gaudo was more or less temporary......
12th
A railroad bridge five miles north of Todi, Italy was the intended
target of the 487th six ship formation.
However, no hits were recorded and the mission unsuccessful.
Anti-aircraft fire was nil and all planes
returned safely to the base......Breakfast was served at the usual
time 6:30 to 8:00 and the customary
hustle and bustle followed that is so typical of the 487th in the
process of moving. In the midst of the
confusion it was announced that the time of departure has once
again been changed to
dinner was served from
The rear party remaining with the flight echelon will mess with
the 489th squadron who will be here for
a few days along with the 488th. The convoy was formed on the road
adjacent to the squadron area and
contrary to custom the caravan started to move about, on time.
Behind the 486th convoy, we arrived at
the docks in Salerno around 5:00 P.M. at which time the waiting
began. c-rations were distributed and
eaten while Italian beggars looked on. After trucks were driven
ahead and unloaded, but our own
vehicles were not on the boat until dawn of the following morning.
Capt. Bugbee was the only casualty
of the day – while directing traffic onto the boat this hand was
caught between a stationary object and a
truck that kept on going. He has a bad looking hand but nothing
serious......The flight echelon and
remaining ground crew members started to mess with the 489th at
supper tonight. Meals aren't
considered as good but it's any port in a storm......
13th
Most of the boys were expecting to get on an American L.S.T. where
they would have a sack to rest
their weary bones and showers in hot water, but unfortunately the
ship was British and without
accommodations. Not only was it totally lacking in personal
comforts but filthy beyond belief. An
unpleasant voyage was looked forward to immediately upon sight of
the vessel. The beds provided
were those for crew members only, consequently 487th personnel
threw their blankest in any bare spot
to catch a wink of sleep if possible. The ships mess-hall and the
open deck assumed the appearance of
an East Side flop house, but the boys were tired enough to sleep
anywhere. Meals were served in the
same mess-hall which made it quite cozy although sandwiches and
coffee were about the extent of food
eaten on board. The “luxurious” craft sailed with the tide for
Corsica at 3:00 P.M. Morale was at its
lowest ebb for some time, brought about naturally by the living
conditions on board the British ship.
All retired to the floor rather early after last night's
ordeal......At Guado L/G another railroad bridge 2 ½
files northeast of Ficulle, Italy was the target for six bomb
laden aircraft of the 487th squadron this
morning. One aircraft failed to bomb while another bombed the
primary target scoring a near miss.
The remaining four ships plastered the alternate target which was
Terni M/Y scoring at least four direct
hits in the yards and some on buildings in the vicinity. No enemy
opposition of any kind was
encountered......With the exception of the morning mission there
is little in the way of excitement or
things to do. Everyone is rather anxious about the new base......
14th
Mission Documents Vitterbo A/D
After finally arousing people who were sleeping where the mess
line was to be set up, breakfast was
served from about 8:00 to 9:30 A.M. Most of the remaining day was
spent taking in the sights from the
deck. The number of islands or rocks jutting out of the water in
and around the straights of Sardinia
was the chief amazement. Corsica was sighted early in the
afternoon and at 3:00 P.M. the ship dropped
anchor in Port Vecchio. A fleet of Quartermaster trucks met us at
the docks where a detail of at least
half of the squadron loaded them up until 8:00 P.M. From the docks
we went to a staging area three
miles inland to spend the night where our cooks whipped up a roast
beef supper. First impression of
Corsica is that its cleaner and more picturesque than Italy. Few
civilians have been seen so its
impossible to pass judgment on the inhabitants as yet. An early
hour has been set for arising in the
morning, consequently the sacks were out and prepared for sleeping
early......At Guado L/G – this
morning Viterbo Airdrome was declared as the target for nine
B-25's of this squadron. At. 10:59 hours
the formations fragmentation bomb load was dropped, starting on
the Southeast corner of the A/D and
extending across the field. Several fires and explosions were
observed as a result of the precision
bombing. One plane was holed by ack-ack......After several days of
subsisting on 489th's poor chow,
arrangements were made to start eating with the 321st Bomb Group
when the 489th pulled out for
Corsica. The boys has no idea that food could be so bad until they
saw it with their own eyes and
tasted it with their own mouths.....
15th TOP
An early breakfast of cereal, dried eggs, bread, jam and coffee
was served after which the convoy was
formed for the final trek of our 210 mile move. The 487th convoy
reached Alesan Airfield at 12:30
A.M. As usual the area resembles somebody's backyard, but this one
was surprisingly green and
pleasant looking. C-rations were again passed out and not too
palatable after roast beef last night.
Following the repast a detail of men assisted in the erection of a
mess-hall tent while the rest worked on
their own personal tents. Stake driving was found to the similar
to that at Hergla-ground is as hard as
rock and consists mostly of rocks and solid clay. However, by
nightfall things were shaping up and the
area was beginning to resemble a military reservation after a hard
days work......A shortage of tents
permits for only two man tents for the officers and six enlisted
men to each pyramidal job. In spite of a
hard day some of the boys accumulated enough energy to dig slit
trenches......At Guado L/G – Six
crews were briefed this
the track about 200' north of the bridge with some hits in
buildings within the target area. The error
was attributed to wind change. No opposition was encountered and
all planes returned safely to the
base......T/Sgt. Ed Johnston is finding the food at the 321st so
lousy that he couldn't let pass
unmentioned and consequently had words with the Mess
Sergeant......
16th
A rainy, miserable day hampered the setting up of our organization.
The mess-hall , always the biggest
problem in a move, is just about completed although there is much
discussion going on regarding the
possibility of a separate mess-hall for the officers. The idea is
not well received by the majority as the
combined affair which has been in existence since our arrival on
foreign soil necessitates enough added
work and an additional mess-hall would be entirely out of the
question unless of course, some natives
from the Island can be employed to lessen the burden. Personnel
tents are popping up all over the place
with little or no attention being paid to the 50 yd. distances
between “homes” - lack of space makes this
ruling an impossibility......Officers are using the new two men
tents exclusively and enlisted men in the
six man pyramidals. At the present time there is a scarcity of
each, but Capt. Tasker is endeavoring to
requisition as many as possible from Quartermaster – no doubt when
we are finally straightened out
there will be a surplus......At Guado L/G six 487th planes
participated in a mission to destroy a bridge 5
miles north of Todi, Italy. The formation was over the target at
12:00 hours and dropped 24x1000 lb
bombs from 10300', but not too successfully. The bombs straddled
the track about 350' south of the
bridge with one possible hit on the track. No ack-ack or other
enemy opposition was encountered. All
planes and crews returned safely to their base......
17th
Most of the combat crews and planes are still at Guado L/G. awaiting
word to depart for our new
station, Alesan Airfield at Corsica, but in the meantime they are
participating in regular combat
missions. At 09:15 hours, six 487th planes were in the air with
the railroad bridge 5 miles north of Todi,
Italy as their target for the second time. 24x1000 bombs were
dropped on the target from 9800' at
or other enemy opposition was encountered – all planes and crews
returned safely to their base......At
Alesan rain continued to slow up the progress of our new camp
site, although despite many handicaps
the spot is beginning to take on the aspect of a fighting
unit......Three planes ferried more of the
personnel from Guado......Rumor has it that we may be able to
obtain some men from the Italian labor
battalion to do K.P. and other details which is music to the ears
of all concerned.....Fishing promises to
be one of the favorite forms of relaxation while stationed here as
we hear biting is not too bad in the
nearby streams. Capt. Bugbee and Greg Moore were observed this
evening digging for worms with
which to attract their “catch” - we even heard about a proposed
fish fry.......
18th
No mission today from either field as crews are preparing to
vacate Guado L/G at Paestum, Italy to
depart for Corsica. With the exception of three planes all arrived
at Corsica during the day......Our
Armament section is up night and day loading up both our own
planes and those of the 489th whose
own Armament department is now enroute......The Mess-hall is
drawing five K.P.'s a day to assist with
the additional work brought on by the 489th combat crews messing
with us. K.P. in this squadron is
something new for the boys and is definightly disliked. Before we
were able to get civilian help, mess
personnel did their own work, but apparently the cans have gotten
a little tougher to open since that
time......Details are still in order especially hole digging. This
is the second day being spent on a 8 ft.
deep grease pit and thus far no more than three feet have been
penetrated. Ordnance is cooperating
with the use of land mines, but even they can't move the boulders
encountered in the ground. On one
such occasion today, a mine was set off and two tents were
destroyed by the showering debris. Sgt. De
Lorge was the unfortunate who had his tent pierced and insisted
that he get a new tent with a detail to
erect it.......Italian lire is being accepted for exchange into
francs. It's the squadron's second time to use
French money as a unit of exchange, but the boys all find
merchandise more effective......F/O Harold
Sterling was discharged from the Army this morning to accept
commission of second
lieutenant......”Swede” Holmstrom is now a member of the Detachment
of Patients at the 23rd General
Hospital following several lengthy sojourns in various hospitals.
No doubt we'll hear from “Swede”
next enjoying the utter luxury to be had in our own Unightd
States......
19th
The entire squadron and all our planes are now together at Alesan.
First mission from our new base
took off today at 12:14 to bomb harbor installations at Piombino,
Italy. Our six planes were over the
target at 13:50 hours dropping their bomb load from 12000' with an
excellent degree of success.
Pattern started at the shore line and extended across harbor
installations to the right of large water tank
and covered large buildings within pattern. Ack-ack was heavy,
moderate and fairly accurate. One of
our ships was slightly holed. All planes and crews returned safely
to the field......With the organization
completely set-up and the sun shining brightly our limited supply
of baseball equipment is being used
to much advantage. Lt. Shemwell is encouraging the idea with a
view toward many inter-department
teams and games......Another meeting of the Album committee was called
tonight and Capt. Gellman
passed along all the information received in reply to his letter
written to a Publishing company back in
the States. Each department was allotted a certain number of pages
according to the size of their
sections and work on the book has now really started in
earnest......S/Sgt. John E. Blume who has been
in the hospital recuperating from a broken arm and leg sustained in
a crash landing at Pompeii was
today transferred to Detachment of Patients at 118th Station
Hospital......
20th
Weather conditions in Corsica thus far don't seem to be too
favorable for flying. Today's mission was
canceled and a stand-down declared due to a hazy sky......A detail
of six enlisted men from tis squadron
and six from the 486th left the field by airplane for Naples to
pick up six jeeps assigned to the Group.
Shortly after their departure word came in that the jeeps had
arrived at Port Vecchio and were awaiting
drivers to deliver them......Lt. H.H. Young returned from detached
service with the 11th Depot Repair
Squadron to find himself in the railroad track category......Sgt.
Bornstein is now able to get all the wood
he can use which has boosted his morale 100% so we hope to have
many fine products of his carpentry
in the near future......New combat crew men joined the
organization in droves today, making the outfit
richer in complete crews than ever before. Those to join today
are: 2nd Lts. C.R. Klebes, D.
Konigsberg, H.A. Van Etten, V.I. Salsbury, W.F Joyce Jr.; S/Sgts.
J.H. Rogers, Walter Joseph, C.L.
Fritch, J.E. Kelley, T.R. Olander, E.D. Grahm; Joseph Cote Jr.,
and L.S. Young........
21st
Bad weather conditions again prevented our planes from taking off
and a stand-down was declared for
the entire day. Missionless days at most of our other stations
were spent visiting the nearby places of
interest, but it seems like in Corsica, we'll have to content
ourselves with a restful day in the squadron
area as there is absolutely no place to go that might possibly
prove of interest......Today we received
two more new planes (B-25 J's) which brings our total to
twenty-three, making it the largest number of
planes we've had since our introduction to combat......P.X.
rations were dispensed today to both officers
and enlisted men and the generous quantity of candy helped
considerably to boost morale. About all
we have to look forward to on this Island is a regular and
substantial supply of cigarettes, candy etc and
it's hoped that our initial ration will be repeated at frequent
intervals......Lt. Linthicum our S-2 officer is
receiving congratulations on his promotion to the rank of
Captain......
22nd TOP
Six 487th planes took off at 07:45 to bomb a railroad bridge 2 ½
miles N.W. of Ficulle, Italy. The
formation was over the target at 09:04 hours, but due to poor
approach to the target caused by
intervening mountains, the primary target was not bombed, but a
target of opportunity, a railroad bridge
at Pode Nuovo, was attacked by the second element of our
formation, but the bombs overshot the
target. The three ships in the first element brought their bombs
back. No ack-ack or other enemy
opposition was encountered – all planes and crews returned safely
to the base......T/Sgt. Elmer Ryerson,
crew chief, was reduced to Staff when he accepted appointment as a
gunner on one of the combat
crews. Keeping his ship in perfect condition for flights over
enemy targets became too monotonous
and Elmer decided he would rather see some real action......Sgt.
Dan Barton paid for his excessive
celebration on the convoy with a “bust”......Group Special Service
presented the first picture at our new
base tonight - “As Thousands Cheer” a fairly recent production was
unreeled to an appreciative
audience, but poor sound effects detracted from the full enjoyment
of the film........
23rd
Sunshine this morning sent six crews and ships into the air at 9:59
hours to again attack a railroad
bridge six miles north of Orvieto. The lead box mistook Canteno
for the I.P. and failed to find the
prescribed target, so all returned without dropping their bombs.
No enemy opposition was
encountered......The jeep detail of six men returned from
three days. However, the sweating out procedure was not considered
a difficult task in the officers
transient hotel......Complete lack of laundresses on the Island of
Corsica makes it necessary for the boys
to patronize the Quartermaster laundry. They offer a weekly
service but only six items may be sent in a
bundle. It looks as though we'll have to revert to doing a lot of
our own clothes during the summer or
remain dirty......PFC Fahndrick and Fitzgerald were reduced to the
grade of Private for an unauthorized
jeep accident that took place in Pompeii......Orders on the
bulletin board state that each tent must have a
desert lily, slit trench and a mosquito net must be draped over each
bed. Thus far we have had no use
for a slit trench although the more pessimistic members expect to
be leaping into their slit trench any
day......”As Thousands Cheer” was repeated at the movies
tonight......
24th
Stand-down until 13:00 at which time six crews were alerted for an
afternoon mission. Takeoff was at
13:55 with the railroad bridge six miles N.W. of Orvieto as their
target. The formation was over the
designated area at 15:07 hours and dropped their bomb load very
successfully on the bridge. Bombs
started short of the middle of the bridge and extended beyond with
two direct hits scored on the center
of the bridge. Ack-ack was heavy, moderate and accurate, holing
three of our ships. No other
casualties resulted......A party of ten officers and enlisted men
left today for Sfax, Tunisia to decorate
the grave of our late C.O., Major C.A. Whittington who was killed
in a crash on
field......Lt. Eustis left for
classes are not difficult will prove to be a break for our P.X.
officer......F/O Deere was discharged from
the Army this morning to accept a commission of second lieutenant,
leaving only F/O Chandler to
sweat out his commission......The picture scheduled at the movies
tonight was canceled when the courier
plane failed to return with the film......
25th
Crews were alerted this morning, but didn't take off until 14:30
at which time nine planes and crews of
the 487th left the runway to bomb a railroad bridge south of
Ficulle. They were over the target at 15:41
dropping their bombs with precision accuracy. Our full box
reported bombs starting at the east
approach of the bridge and extending beyond. Smoke and dust from
previous flights obscured results
of the composite box. Heavy, intense although inaccurate ack-ack
was responsible for all ships
returning undamaged......Mess Sgt. McMillen and Otto Stellato went
to Bastia this afternoon in search
of civilian kitchen help, but returned in the evening empty
handed......One of the combat crews
mascots, G.I., a small puppy of varied breeds, was injured by a
GMC near the operations trailer. An
emergency operation was performed on “G.I.” by Rounis and several
other first aiders who expect him
to be on his feet shortly. “G.I.” is now doing nicely......Today
brought many sun bathers out bare to the
waist to bask in the brilliant sun. Everyone is pretty white now,
but after a few more days like this
they'll either be tan or most likely a shade of lobster
red......Sgt. Bornstein and his detailed helpers are
constructing screens for the mess-hall and from all appearances
they're progressing rapidly as one side
is now completely screened......PFC Henry H. Greer was transferred
to the 486th Dispensary after being
with this outfit almost since activation......Ordnance personnel
who have been attached for rations only
since our arrival on the Island are now assigned and joined for
duty......Playing at the movie tonight was
“The Man from Down Under” with Charles Laughton and Donna
Reed......
26th
Rain continued all day following an exceedingly wet night. There seems
to be nothing more
depressing than a camp site in the rain. G.I.'s stir only when
necessary and then it's a rush to the mess
hall and back. Following a rainy day the censor is usually beside
himself with a deluge of mail written
in a cozy tent during the rain. A raid was scheduled for the
morning at which time a stand-down for the
remainder of the day was declared......Mail brought in by the
Group courier was distributed which
always tends to boost morale......Boys in Naples awaiting
transportation after a rest in Capri are really
getting a break out of weather conditions as they'll remain in
Naples until planes can leave this field.
This makes one day over their prescribed leave......Donald Brown
of transportation didn't like some
remarks made by Communications boys and was ready to wage a minor
battle with “Red” Conwill and
several other boys. However, Preswich stepped in and prevented
anyone from getting hurt. The
fellows were only kidding but “Brownie” didn't see it that way.
Too much overseas service is inclined
to make anyone irritable which was the trouble in this case......A
rifle inspection was held by 1st Sgt.
Parkins this P.M. and surprisingly the rifles were in pretty good
shape. However, the customary few
shall have to bear another inspection tomorrow......A squadron
meeting was canceled this evening due
to the rain, the movie also was washed out......
27th
Continued rain all night and day caused a stand-down for the
second successive day. A mission was
scheduled but later postponed when takeoff was practically
impossible......In spite of the inclement
weather a hard working detail hauled gravel and spread it
throughout the mess-hall to give the “Salon”
a more appealing atmosphere. The three native K.P.'s were
discharged for inefficiency which gives our
boys more to bitch about as no one likes the pots and pans detail.
An effort is being made to acquire
suitable, able-bodied men to relieve the pressure in the kitchen
and until they are found the officers will
use their own mess gear......A meeting of the entire squadron was
called this evening at which Major
Armistead warned of the dangers of Malaria and cautioned all to
erect their mosquito bars without
further delay. Capt. Coyle spoke on the formation of base-ball
teams and Capt. Gellman added a few
words concerning the planned squadron album. He requested full
cooperation to make the book a
success and advised all interested parties to “kick in” $10.00
next pay day. The Special Service tent
went up today after much unavoidable delay and many requests for
reading material. The Special
Service section has been more or less of a side issue until very
recently and is now eagerly looked for,
in fact should have first priority after the mess-hall is erected
at a new base......”Government Girl”
starring Olivia De. Haviland was the picture shown by Group
tonight. A very entertaining comedy and
an all around good performance......
28th
The first bright, clear morning in three days brought forth a
schedule of two routine missions plus the
Group's first low altitude attack. The first raid of the day was to
destroy two objectives, the Orvieto
south railroad bridge plus another railroad bridge south of
Attigliano. However, both elements of the
nine ship formation reported no hits on either target. Ack-ack
northeast and northwest of Orvieto was
heavy, moderate and accurate although no ships were damaged,
placing the raid in a “milk-run”
category. Takeoff was at 15:30 for the second mission of the day
with the main railroad bridge at
Orvieto as target for six B-25's of the 487th. A 48x500 lb. bomb
load was dropped from 8600' at 16:50
which landed beyond the target northwest of the bridge. No enemy
opposition was encountered
chalking up the day's second “milk run.” The most effective raid
of many days was the Group's debut
into low altitude work. Two planes from the 487th and two from the
489th left the field at 5:00 P.M.
carrying 3x1000 lb. bombs each. They came into the coast at 8000',
dropped to 400' and destroyed one
of two bridges at Montepulciano which was their objective. After
releasing their bombs in conjunction
with the 20 ship Spitfire escort, they strafed everything in
sight. This mission was considered as most
devastating and is probably the fore-runner to many more similar
attacks. Crew members claimed that
they enjoyed it and actually had a good time......T/Sgt. Gammage
was reduced to the grade of Pvt. after
failing to put in an appearance for a scheduled mission and is now
doing extra duty for a one week
period......The grave decorating committee returned from Sfax this
evening with 2000 eggs from Africa
plus a few other kitchen supplies. However, they did not
accomplish their main purpose in making the
trip as Major Whittington's remains had been moved to a National
Cemetery......”Song of Bernadette”
with Jennifer Jones played to a capacity crowd at the movies
tonight......
29th
Terni viaduct, at 9:21 hours was the scene of attack for six bomb
loaded B-25's of the 487th squadron.
The bomb pattern started at a point below the west end of the
viaduct striking the railway tracks and
extended along the tracks onto the viaduct scoring several direct
hits on the objective. All planes
returned safely to the base – no enemy opposition was encountered......Our
best meal since arriving in
Corsica was served for dinner today. Menu included fried chicken
for early comers and pork chops for
the later arrivals. Plus fresh butter, vegetables, mashed
potatoes, coffee and fresh cookies. Chow
hounds were in their glory......Much running around took place
this morning when word came through
that the squadron was to send three combat men up to Group
immediately for the purpose of returning
to the States for a period of thirty days at which time they will
return to the squadron. In absolutely no
time T/Sgts. Wood and Johnston and Lt. Stewart were ready, willing
and able to make the trip. The rest
of the day was spent bemoaning the fact that more people couldn't
have gone - “Particularly me” was
the remark passed by many......Soft ball game between clerks and
pilots tonight brought the pilots out on
the long end......Fishing on the Island has been banned to all
members of the Armed Forces stationed
here. Its a tough break for the boys who really enjoy fishing, but
the ruling must have some logic
behind it......”Song of Bernadette” showed for the second time
tonight to a touched crowd......
Again today six of our planes took off at 15:40 to bomb the
Marciana railroad bridge, but the pattern
landed beyond the target area to the right of the bridge. No enemy
opposition was encountered
throughout the raid......2nd Lts. Risch and Gibson went on DS to
HQ. 11th Depot Repair Sq. Depot #5
where they will attend a short training program. The much
anticipated K.P.'s arrived from Naples this
afternoon in a B-25. There were five kitchen men and one barber
all told. Perhaps the presence of a
barber in the organization will lend that well groomed appearance
which has been lacking since our
departure from Italy. No more K.P. for the boys is a most heralded
innovation......Fresh eggs for
breakfast followed by a hot-dog dinner was a treat for the 487th
warriors......In Lt. Eustis' absence Lt.
Farley handled the officers P.X. today which consisted of a pretty
good candy ration, plus a carton of
cigarettes. Enlisted men were serviced likewise by Greg Moore and
staff......Squadron album
committee was called this evening, but due to the late mission the
meeting was canceled until May
3rd......Our mail situation since arrival in Corsica has been very
poor and limited mostly to odds and
ends which hasn't done a great deal for morale. However, an
attempt is being made to pick it up daily in
Naples, but it just doesn't seem to be there.......No movies
tonight..................
May 1944
i. Losses in Action
1. Francis B. Latady
2. Raymond R. Reynolds
3. Joe J. Hawkins
4. Joseph L. Ferraro
5. Raymond E. Gerhardt
j. Personnel who have distinguished themselves in action
1. Jack E. Gellman
2. Francis G. Jackman
3. Archibald Samuels
4. Paul R. Bergen
5. Edward S. Johnston
6. Bernard A. Zucker
7. Robert D. Wolfhope
8. Joseph L. Ferraro
9. Raymond E. Gerhardt
With an escort of twelve Spits, six B-25's of the 487th were over
their target at 9:48 hours. Orvieto N.
railroad bridge was the original designation, but a cloudy
overcast forced the formation to seek the
alternate, Albinia railroad bridge. However, the pattern fell
short of the objective for another near miss.
Three ships were holed by heavy, moderate and accurate
anti-aircraft, but no casualties were
caused......Late this afternoon another low level attack formation
left the Group with two ships of this
squadron participating. Results were favorable and all planes
returned safely......The beaches off the
squadron area have been de-mined and are now open for swimming.
However, it will have to warm up
a little bit before the boys can take advantage of the facility......Two
more soft ball games were played
this evening with Engineering losing to Communications and the
Bombardiers on the losing end of
their game with Armament......Several smatterings of mail came in
today having a desirable effect on
the varied dispositions in the squadron......A teletype machine
has been added to the Communications
section recently, but to date no one has figured out its purpose.
After being without one for fifteen
months it seems rather useless and extravagant at this late date.......S/Sgt.
Reid reports that his little
bride-to-be has already selected her wedding gown in anticipation
of that happy event to come. He has
finished his missions and shall be leaving for home
soon......”Swingtime Johnny” was the attraction at
the movie tonight. Approval of the Andrews Sisters numbers was
unanimous.......
2nd
Six 487th planes were in the air at 10:49 with the N. Orvieto
railroad bridge once more as their target.
The formation reached the spot at 11:40 and dropped 22x1000 lb. bombs
on the junction. The pattern
started just west of the bridge and extended away from the target
area. However, some crew members
believe the bridge was it by two to four bombs. No flak was
encountered on the bomb run, but a heavy,
moderate and accurate barrage was met as the formation left the
target. Four of our planes were
slightly holed – no other casualties resulted......”Cliff” Parsons
and Major Schreiner were seen arm &
arming it after “Cliff” makes Tech and finishes fifty-six combat
missions......Other Staffs who gained
another rocker today were: Lambert, McClernon, Rabon and
Zucker......Sgt. “Moe” Ferraro who has
been in the hospital recuperating from an injury received on a
combat mission was today transferred
out of the squadron to the Detachment of Patients at 23rd General
Hospital. Cpl. Joseph E. Doyle was
likewise transferred to the same hospital......Lts. Foster and
Schooley left today for a temporary
assignment with the 3rd Air Base Area Command......Ideal weather
is bringing the boys out nightly for
the inter-department soft ball games. Tonight the Clerks defeated
the Pilots in a hotly contested game
which ended with the pilots on the short end of a 9-7
score......The Group was honored with a visit from
General Cannon today. Apparently his business was confined to
Headquarters as he did not appear in
any of the squadron areas......”Swingtime Johnny” was unreeled for
the second time to an amused
audience. An added feature at our out-door theater tonight was a
lively, colored G.I. orchestra that beat
out some hot rhythm before the picture......
3rd
Todi North Railroad bridge was the target for our Group formation
in which six ships of the 487th
participated. At 10:18 hours the formation dropped their
devastating load in what may prove to be the
most concentrated piece of bombing to date in this theater of War.
Bombs started just short, covering
the bridge at the center and right center placing the bridge in
the category of a “has been.” No enemy
opposition was encountered on this most successful
attack......Every morning at approximately
DC-3 buzzes the Squadron area at an almost death defying altitude.
The pilot is believed to be Lt.
Schooley carrying out a threat, made when he left the Squadron to
fly DC's pending orders to go
home......Although no official word has come out everyone seems to
be aware of the fact that our
Group received a citation from the War Department for meritorious
achievement through and including
the Sicilian campaign. Wonder how much closer to home that gets
us?......S/Sgt. E. M. Smith has
shaved his head and several other boys on the line have followed
suit. They must be figuring on
remaining in Corsica for some time because few would have the
nerve to appear publicly resembling a
cactus plant as they do now. Crew cuts or Hitler haircuts are
quite popular in the squadron at present
and far more attractive......Rumors of the coming invasion of
Southern France are rampant. Some are
going so far as to bet that the zero hour is set as one within the
next two weeks. Another angle is
where, when and how many places the Allies will invade,
simultaneously. Encouraging incidents are
numerous and we all hope evident......”Melody Parade” at the movie
tonight featured a lot of good music
plus many fine dance routines.....
4th
Scheduled raid this morning was canceled in favor of a stand-down
for the remainder of the
day.....Formerly on such occasions combat crews took off to the
nearest town, where wine, women and
song were abundant. However, in lieu of the limited activity on
Corsica many are now spending standdown
days playing ball, reading, writing letters, sleeping or washing
clothes. Laundry is getting to be
quite a problem over here when the Quartermaster will only accept
six pieces of laundry per week and
with the total lack of local laundresses it looks as though the
boys will have to do a bit of washing. Its
not a very pleasant outlook but we were up against the same
situation all the way through the desert
without a Quartermaster and seemed to manage so its apparent that
we'll have to do likewise in our
present circumstance. Some of the fellows sought out a vino
emporium about eight miles from the
base and returned this evening in a most festive mood as a result
of the potent beverage......Sgt. Greg
Moore is regretting the fact that he gave a negative of a
California belle to Sgt. Liphardt for the purpose
of knocking out a couple of prints to be inserted in Sgt. Moore's
personal album. Liphardt not only
knocked out the prescribed number, but enough to adorn every
bulletin board in the squadron plus
every other place in public view. Sgt. Moore's bathing beauty now
has an unlimited number of
admirers in the 487th.....T/Sgt. Hickey, Group Public Relations
man, is getting a lot of cooperation with
the States pictures. Everyday several States are selected in
alphabetical sequence and each member of
the organization from that particular state assembles for the
Group picture which will be distributed to
the new agencies and picture pools throughout America for release
in local papers. The boys are
showing a great deal of enthusiasm for the idea and are turning
out in quantities for the camera
man......”Seventh Victim” was the spine chiller at the cinema
tonight......
6th
Stand-down all day lent an atmosphere of calm throughout the
squadron area. However, it being P.X.
day most of the men remained in the vicinity to draw their ration
of three good candy bars and a carton
of cigarettes plus two Phillies......Sgt. Marcus Fuiks and Pvt.
Theodore M. Johnson joined the
organization after serving for some time with the 57th Bomb. Wing.
Johnson is already performing in
the kitchen and Fuiks is assigned to Public Relations......Several
PFC ratings made the bulletin board
today. The lucky lads are Lackey, Leckey and Ben Harmon......Rumor
has it that by July 1st ten percent
of the organization will be leaving the squadron monthly on the
rotation basis. Here's hoping it isn't
strictly rumor, but it's too good to be fact......All sorts of
good rumors concerning the invasion of
Europe are running rampant among the men. Some are betting that it
will take place before the 15th of
May and the more conservative give it another month. In every
event all agree that it depends almost
entirely on the Politico's......Eight bags of packages filling
everyone with anticipation until they were
distributed to the handful of fortunates......”Seventh Victim” was
the movie again tonight......
7th
Combat crews were on stand-by until
unlikely and a stand-down was declared for the rest of the day. In
spite of intense cloudiness we had no
rain which enabled the boys to explore the few places on the
Island not visited heretofore. Early this
morning well wishers were on hand to bid a happy landing to Capt.
Gellman, Lts. O'Toole, Puckett and
Watson, who left the area at
boys who have completed their tour of combat are ferrying planes
to the Zone of Interior that are not
practical in this theater of operations. Several members of the
ground crew were told to remain in the
area as they were the first to go home on the ½ of 1% rotation
plan. All concerned parties are sticking
close by awaiting the word to “take-off.” One eager soul said he
wouldn't mind being permanent C.Q.
until the precious documents came through. In that way he wouldn't
be doing the wrong thing at a critical
moment. The fact that rotation has at last started in the 340th
helps considerably to bolster the morale of
all the war weary members of the 487th squadron. A strong rumor
that 10% of the ground force is
scheduled to depart sometime in July has built up hopes and many
groups are heard discussing plans of
just how the system should work – opinions vary greatly, but time
will tell who carries the lucky
charm......No movie was shown at the Group theater tonight, but
Hdq. Ack-ack Battery presented
“Heavenly Body” starring Hedy La Marr – needless to say the 340th
was well represented at our
neighbors play house. The title of the picture speaks for itself
and the enjoyment of the flicker goes
without saying......
8th TOP
Stand-down all morning until
was declared at briefing. Weather hasn't been very favorable
lately for operation......A spattering of
mail came in this morning which is annoying to say the least. A
good guessing game would be: “What
happened to the 340th mail between here and Italy?”......Ed Burke
spends most of the day going to and
from the mail tent which has classified him as a mail hound......Several
of the boys celebrated this
stand-down by tying on a beautiful drunk. Sgt. Ebert, claimed to
have five and one-half gallons if the
intoxicating brew in his tent......Cpl. Balawedjer is the first
Cpl. to pull C.Q. in this squadron. It's an
entirely new system and will alleviate the pressure on the higher
grades.......Towns in Corsica are still
out of bounds to members of this Group, consequently few have
discovered the charms of the
Island......Group showers should be ready for use shortly, but in the
meantime we're still running a truck
down the road to the Engineers outfit daily......Late this
afternoon another crew who were supposed to
have gone yesterday left for the States. A few more plane loads and
the squadron will consist entirely
of B-25 J's which is the purpose in sending crews home in the
outdated aircraft. Capt. Willhite piloted
the ship that left today with Lt. Lewis, T/Sgt. Casey and S/Sgt.
Marvin aboard who were all homeward
bound......S/Sgt. Jimmy Connolly had a hell of a time finding tent
room for the new crews that came in
tonight......Everyone enjoyed “Madame Curie” with Greer Garson and
Walter Pigeon at the movies
tonight......
9th
Up at 06:30 hours for an early morning mission which couldn't take
off because of the heavy overcast.
Crews kept their flying clothes on in anticipation of a later raid
which was never called, but a stand down
was declared around noon. It was a gloomy dull morning although
the sun came out later in the
forenoon which made it a pleasant day after all. The phonographs
in the Day Room never stopped
from early morn till dusk. Although most of our records were
destroyed back in Pompeii by Vesuvius
we have since acquired a new machine and a couple dozen records.
“There'll be a Hot Time In Berlin”
sung by Frank Sinatra is the squadron's favorite while Fats
Waller's numbers run it a close second......A
few more combat crew members were scheduled to go home today, but
due to the general mix up in
orders and bad weather conditions no one left the field......1st
Sgt. Parkins officiated over a general “ass
eating” squadron meeting at 6:00 P.M. this evening. The main topic
of discussion was our four
squadron representatives awaiting court martial in the guard
house. It all happened in twenty-four
hours and each one has a different offense. Military courtesy was
of course brought up – it seems to be
a standard. The meeting was adjourned with an order to take your
Atabrine tablet daily and to be on
the alert for Commando raids and gas attacks. Judging from recent
warnings it must be apparent that
the enemy is considering the use of gas......Group showers opened
up today with hot water which is
really a break.......Again “Madame Curie” played at the Group
movie..........
10th
After a four day stand-down the weather cleared sufficiently to
warrant the takeoff of six 487th planes.
The formation was over the target, Terni Viaduct, at 09:21 hours,
but no bombs were dropped because
bomb-bay doors in the lead ship refused to open at the correct
moment. On the return to the base, a run
was taken on Attigliano North bridge. This time the bomb-bay doors
opened, but the bomb racks failed
to function. All planes returned to the base with their 48x500 lb.
bomb load intact. During all this
flying around enemy territory, no ack-ack or other opposition was
encountered......The C-ration kids
when not holding forth on the ball diamond can be found almost any
evening congregated in a tent,
getting much enjoyment out of a bingo game. Quite a change from
their past forms of relaxation, but
Zientek says “The boys get a big kick out of the game”......Capt.
Birmingham has been appointed
assistant operations officer, filling the vacancy left opened by
the departure of Capt. Willhite. Lt.
Salsbury has been given the job of squadron P.X. officer......So
much enthusiasm has been shown in the
nightly soft-ball games that individuals were keeping the
equipment in their own tents to be certain of
having a glove at game time. Lt. Shemwell took the situation in hand
and collected all gloves so that
no confusion will result at the last minute......After three days
of fierce fighting, the Russian
communique last night announced the capture of Sevastopol, a most
important Crimean city. Is it any
wonder that the Allied forces in this theater are bewildered by
the apparent political reason keeping
them away from home by delaying the invasion of
France?......”Princess O'Rourke” starring Olivia De
Haviland & Robert Cummings was an excellent picture shown at
the Group movie tonight.......
11th
Porto Farrajo docks, Isle of Elba was the objective for six planes
and crews this morning. The
formation was over the target at 10:32 hours dropping their 24x1000
lb load with devastating results to
the docks and several buildings within the target area. Crews
reported it as being one of the most
effective raids they've carried out in sometime. Ack-ack was
practically nil allowing for a safe return
of all participating aircraft. The Isle of Elba is a new one for
the 340th Group......For the boys who
missed gas mask inspection last night, there was another
opportunity tonight. These new masks seem
more comfortable than the old type, but no one is very anxious to
test it out for performance......All
combat crew members were called to a meeting at Group operations
by Colonel Chapman at 4:00 P.M.
today. They were advised of the part this Group is to play in the
big push against Cassino tomorrow.
The plan is to saturate the area with bombs and then leave the
rest up to the ground troops. The
Colonel said that this would be the last attempt at a major
offensive in the Italian campaign and was the
first in a series of events leading to the invasion of France......”Princess
O'Rourke” was repeated at the
movies tonight......
12th
The all out attempt to take Cassino started this morning for the
340th Bomb. Group. Sixty planes left
the field early this morning, but all returned with their bombs
due to complete cloud coverage.
Naturally this was a great disappointment but a later mission
consisting of twelve ships from the 487th
took off at 16:22 hours. They were over the town of Itri at 17:55
hours dropping their 96x500 lb. bomb
load with exquisite exactness. Bomb pattern extended through the
east end of Itri crossing the roads
and hitting several buildings. All ships returned undamaged
although a fairly accurate barrage of antiaircraft
fire was encountered. Crews reported that the big push had started
with a bang judging from
the number of Allied aircraft waiting to descend upon the
target......After sweating out orders and
bidding many fond adieus Capt. Jackman, Lt. Samuels, T/Sgt.
Parsons, S/Sgt. Reid and S/Sgt.
Wolfhope finally left for the States. They shall be remembered as
a swell bunch. The most amazing
thing that’s taken place since we've been overseas happened today
when two members of the ground
crew went to Naples to await transportation home. Cpl. “Lew” Lloyd
an S/Sgt. “Joe” Kenney were the
two fortunates, although both has a good reason, Lew to settle his
Mother's estate who passed away
during his foreign service and Joe for failing health. It was
really a wonderful break fro them and a
great boost to the morale of the remaining ground personnel –
providing they follow......”Swede”
Holmstrom who we thought was homeward bound is back in the
squadron in an unassigned status
awaiting reassignment......Handzel and Moltzen are off again for
parts unknown with Air Commodore
Sinclair......”Holy Matrimony” gave the boys a laugh at the Group
movie tonight......
13th
Last night around 10:00 A.M. the squadron was delighted by the
barrage of ack-ack put up not too far
distant from the field which everyone thought to be Bastia, but
later proved to be the Airfield occupied
by the 57th Fighter Group. However, it was another story when at approximately
shaken out of our beds by the return of Jerry whose target this time
was Alesan Airfield. The raid
lasted about an hour and destroyed a great many planes on the ground
and field installation. Line
personnel hugged slit trenches while fragmentation and screaming
demolition bombs were released.
The 487th dispersal area was the least effected although several
casualties were sustained. One
explosion killed T/Sgt. Latady instantaneously, Sgt. Hawkins was
severely injured when a frag landed
in the same slit trench he was occupying and Sgt. Reynolds died
several hours after being taken to the
hospital. Last reports on the casualty toll are 16 dead and 106
hospitalized. Jerry made many runs on
the field and had obviously been well briefed for the raid as he succeeded in destroying
Group
Operations and S-2 and the majority of the Group's aircraft,
although only two of the 487th planes were
rendered permanently out of service. Strafing after the bombs were dropped
accounted for a lot of the
personnel, tents and motor vehicles. Night fighters were obvious
by their absence although anti-aircraft
fire accounted for at least two of the raiding planes. Squadron
area personnel retired to slit trenches in
anticipation although no strafing or bombing took place in the
immediate vicinity. Nerves were at high
tension throughout the day and probably shall remain so for
sometime. One of the boys remarked “that
it takes something like that to make boys out of men,” another
said he was scared enough to utter a
prayer. An air of solitude permeated the squadron for the
remainder of the day while a number of the
boys went down to the hospital and donated blood......A mission
had been scheduled for 9:00 A.M. at
which time it was canceled due to lack of planes to put in the
air. However, at 17:00 hours a hurried
raid was called and six ships of the 487th left the field with a
39x500 lb bomb load to destroy the
railroad tunnel 1 ¼ miles south of Itri. Crews reported their
pattern to 100' short, crossing the mouth of
the tunnel and extending across the road. Heavy, moderate but
inaccurate anti-aircraft fire was
encountered and two F.W. 109's were observed but did not attempt
to attack......Squadron personnel
were thanked for their cooperation and warned of the Malaria
menace again at a squadron meeting
tonight......Picks and shovels were at a premium throughout the
area all during the daylight hours while
those who didn't have a slit trench dug one and others improved
upon theirs. If jerry returns tonight as
he's expected to, there won't be a soul unprepared......No movie
was shown tonight......
14th
Stand-down until 14:00 hours when six 487th planes were alerted
for an attack on Arezzo railroad
bridge. The formation was over the target at 16:46 hours and
dropped their 24,000 lb. bomb load from
10300'. Bombs started at the east approach of the target and
extended north to the road bridge. Due to
smoke in the area it was impossible to determine whether hits were
obtained on the bridge. Ack-ack
was heavy, moderate and inaccurate – all ships and crews returned
safely tot he base......Jerry did not
return tonight to fulfill our expectations and thereby enabled the
boys to enjoy a good night's rest –
something we all needed after yesterday's early morning
episode......Funeral Services for our comrades
who lost their lives in yesterday's raid on the field were held
this afternoon in Bastia. Guards of honor
from all squadrons in the Group attended the inspiring but
depressing ceremony......Lt. W.L. Evans was
elevated to the rank of Captaincy while Milton L. Gammage was
re-instated to the rank of Tech.
Sergeant......P.X. rations for officers and enlisted me helped
somewhat in relieving the tension hovering
over the squadron......Church services of all denominations were
largely attended today in
commemoration of Mother's Day......No movie was shown at the Group
theater tonight......
15th TOP
Cloud coverage obscured Ficulle South railroad bridge making it
necessary for the formation to
proceed on to the alternate, Piombino Harbor. Our six ships and
crews were over the target at 10:50
hours releasing their 24x1000 lb. bomb load between two large
jettys at Piombino with a possible hit
on the south jetty. Ack-ack was extremely inaccurate consequently
no damage was done to the
formation. Crews were alerted for an immediate stand-by after the
raid until 4:00 P.M. when a standdown
was declared......Major Armistead came back from Foggia last night
with a broad grin on his face
and those much sought after rotation papers. Following a good
night's sleep and hurried preparation
the Major left for Catania this afternoon on his first hop towards
the home shores......The third victim in
the 487th of Jerry's surprise attack of two nights ago passed away
this morning. Sgt. Hawkins will
probably be buried tomorrow next to his comrades who met with the
same fate. The 1st Sgt. made the
announcement in the mess-hall this
the funeral than did at Sgts. Latady and Reynolds
burial.......Capt. Linthicum and Capt. Bugbee set out
on a two day fishing trip yesterday – at least they took rations
to last them two days. Maybe they'll
come back with enough fish for a squadron fish fry......Six ships
off the coast of Italy viewed from the
highest hill in the squadron area gave food for some good rumors.
However, it wasn't possible to
determine whether they were Allied or Axis ships so no one was
quite sure who was to be invaded Italy
or Corsica.......The Group movie showed “Swing Fever” with Kay
Kyser tonight. We saw the picture
before at Guado and weren't too impressed with it at that
time......
16th
Clouds obscured the main target today, consequently the formation
proceeded to the alternate which
was again Piombino Harbor. Six ships of the 487th squadron were
over the harbor at 13:45, but due to
heavy clouds the 48x500 lb. bomb load landed beyond the target in
a field northwest of the objective.
Ack-ack was encountered, but due to its inaccuracy no damage was
done to the formation......Funeral
services for Sgt. Hawkins were attended by many members of the squadron
this morning in Bastia. It's
the sincere hope of all that the squadron has buried its last
casualty at least in this theater of
operation......Slit trenches are being improved daily, some to the
point of perfection. The little shack
with the tin roof belonging to the farmer owning this property is
nothing more than a mere skeleton of
its former self. Wood was the first to disappear for kindling and
now the metal roof is covering up
many of the super de luxe slit trenches......Lt. Miles, T/Sgt. Bergen
and S/Sgt. Shields were pleasantly
surprised by hurried orders to get ready and board Major
Bachrach's ship for home this
afternoon.....The boys in the Medics celebrated Major Armistead's
departure so heartily the other night
that they kept the entire squadron awake until the wee hours of
the morning......No picture at the Group
movie tonight.......
17th
First mission today for six planes of the 487th squadron was over
the Poggibonsi railroad bridge at
10:58 hours and released their 24x1000 lb. bomb load from 8800'
with excellent degree of accuracy. A
good pattern completely covered the target bridge. No ack-ack or
other enemy opposition was
encountered, enabling all planes to return safely to the
base......Second mission of the six planes was i
the air at 17:25 with a railroad junction at Frosinone, Italy, as
the target for their 48x500 lb. bomb load.
The formation reached the designated area at 18:35 and dropped
their bombs from 9500'. The pattern
crossed the highway approximately 200' to 300' south of the road
junction. Heavy, moderate and fairly
accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered, but inflicted no
damage on our formation. All planes and
crews returned safely to the field......Cpl. Runyon returned from
a three weeks stay in the nearby field
hospital. “Damon” hopes he sees no more of hospitals for the
duration, “I'm fed up” was his only other
comment......T/Sgt. E. S. Johnston whom we hope by this time is
enjoying a furlough in sunny
absence is completed. It seems like “Ed” was too quick to accept
the furlough, if he had waited just a
few days longer he's find out that his name came up on rotation –
now his rotation orders are
rescinded......”Monkey” pet dog of Sgt. Parkins was buried after a
fatal accident with one of our
trucks......”Whistling in Brooklyn” with Red Skelton provided some
good entertainment at the movies
tonight......
18th
Twelve 487th planes took off at 10:55 to bomb a railroad bridge at
Via Reggio, Italy. The formation
reached the target at 11:49 hours and dropped their 48,000 lb.
bomb load from 10200' with only a fair
degree of success. First box started at railroad tracks and
extended into an industrial plant at P-21. The
first element of the second box started at the tracks between the
overcast and the bridge with some
possible hits on the north approach. The last element bombed about
4000' short. No ack-ack or other
enemy opposition was encountered – all planes and crews returning
safely to the base......Cpl. Oliver
Stokes was promoted to Staff Sergeant while Grahm, Hyland, Olander
and Woodward added another
rocker to their staff stripes......”Lenny” Tetreault spent the afternoon
in the hills putting his excellent
command of the French language into play most advantageously. He
returned in time for supper
feeling quite gay and admits they have some every good wine which
remains in its hiding place until
some extra special visitor comes along......”Peggy” one of the Red
Cross representatives was on hand
this afternoon to dispense hot coffee and donuts. Lt. Swearingen,
visiting from the 57th Wing,
expressed delight in arriving at an opportune moment......The
Cairo express departed this afternoon on
a food buying mission for the squadron. It will take at least
eight days to transact all the necessary
business – so says the crew & passengers......Capt. Bugbee's
latest innovation is a comfortable
hammock swung between two trees in the vicinity of his tent, where
he whiles away idle
moments......”Whistling in Brooklyn” was repeated at the movies
tonight......
19th
Target for twelve of our ships today was the Pontassieve railroad
bridge. The 44x1000 lb. bomb load
was dropped at 11:30 hours from 9900' scoring hits on the tracks
leading to the bridge although no
direct hits were observed on the target itself. No ack-ack was
encountered which made for a successful
return of the bombers......With the Allies progressing so rapidly
on the Italian front a general interest in
the missions is developing among the fellows. The question now is:
When do we take Rome and when
is the big invasion coming off? All this current “D” day talk and
no “D” day doesn't do much for
morale especially when one can see so much political significance
with no apparent regard for how
long the war lasts. Perhaps its a pity that American troops aren't
as gullible as their enemy......Sgt.
Vollie Mullins who is one of our first members of the ground echelon
to go home on rotation has been
sweating out planes to Naples for three days. He finally got on
one today and after forty-five minutes
of lurching around in a storm the plane returned to the field.
Needless to say Vollie is sweating out
tomorrow's weather. Five bags of mail came in today for our first
delivery of quantity since arriving in
Corsica. Unfortunately the bulk was outdated newspapers and
packages......Lts. Knapp, Clarkson,
May; T/Sgts. Rounis, Morrison, and S/Sgt. Grantham left for the States
today after completing the
customary tour of combat missions......The following combat crew
members were assigned to the 487th
Squadron as of this morning: 1 First Lieutenant, 14 Second
Lieutenants, 1 Flight Officer and 14
enlisted men......”Sweet Rosie O'Grady” starring Betty Grable gave
the boys a treat at the Group
movies tonight......
20th
Combat crews were alerted for a mission this morning, but extreme
cloudiness and intermittent rains
resulted in a stand-down for the entire day......Corsica doesn't
provide much in the way of diversion and
practically all activities are confined to the squadron area,
although a few of our members find much
enjoyment in visiting the one vino establishment located somewhere
in the hills, where two drinks of a
certain brand of vino makes you forget all about yourself. A few
drink the putrid stuff and the majority
use it for lighter fluid......Sgt. Vollie Mullins finally got a
flight to Naples, but not without experiencing
difficulty. He was up bright & early this morning and
proceeded to the line only to discover that
weather conditions prevented takeoff. However, he finally got off
later in the day and by this time
Mullins should be going through the process preparatory to
embarking for the home shores......P.X.
rations broke the monotony and under the supervision of Sgt.
Stellato our new P.X. man, cokes, candy
and cigarettes were on sale practically all day......Ben Harmon
celebrated a birthday in traditional style
with his co-workers from the mess-hall. Ben has been on the wagon
for sometime, but such an event
could not pass unheralded – needless to say all the celebrants hit
the sack at a late hour feeling quite
gay and noisy......Six officers from the 5th Army were today
attached for rations only. They came to us
in exchange for Lts. Butterfield, Hurlbut, Rushton; S/Sgts. J.E.
Kelley, Fritch and Sgt. Koster who will
spend five days with the Infantry boys at the 5th Army
front......”Sweet Rosie O'Grady” was repeated at
the movies tonight......
21st
Mission was canceled today supposedly due to climatic conditions
over the target, however, one rumor
emerged that the Germans were in such a disorderly retreat no
Allied bombers could go over for fear of
bombing our own troops. Nothing official substantiated this rumor
although it gives food for thought.
Late in the afternoon two ships from the squadron participated in
another low level mission with the
Group. Bombs were reported to have bounced off the bridge that was
their intended target. Talk is that
for this reason low altitude raids will no longer be a task of
this Group......Sgt. Pinneo and all ground
crew members of his new ship, posed in front of the plane that was
donated by
school children. The new ship is a B-25J, bearing a name plate
[McKinley Jr. High] for the kids who gave it. They askedfor a d etailed account
of its first mission and Public Relations is endeavoring to give it to them
through the
newspaper......Major Parsons and his crew consisting of 1st. Sgt. Parkins
and S/Sgt. Dunlap among
others returned this afternoon with two cases of liquor and a
radio, after spending two enjoyable days in
Malta......PFC's Harmon, Dugas and Mitchell became Corporals
today......The squadron's most
annoying problem is still the mail, or rather, lack of
same......As usual no movie on Sunday night......
22nd TOP
Today's early morning mission was canceled just as crews were
piling into the trucks. A stand-down
was in effect until 2:30 at which time twelve planes and crews of
the 487th took off to bomb a road at
Cave, Italy. The 48x1000 lb. bomb load was dropped from 12200'
with the first box starting short but
crossing the road in the target area while the second box placed
their pattern parallel to the first box and
crossed road to the right of the previous pattern. The formation
was running out of gas on its return,
and some made very hasty landings after dropping red-red flares.
From the ground it appeared as
though they had been shot up, but no opposition was encountered.
Lts. Doyle, Naruszewicz and Sgt.
Robinson returned to the squadron after being marooned on Capri
for two weeks. It seems as though
the Germans mined the harbor which prohibited traveling to and fro
for a few days although the waters
have been swept now and Capri is again functioning. It was a break
for them any way one looks at
it......A steady stream of crews are coming in daily – two
yesterday and two again today bringing us up
to a grand total of twenty-six crews. However, several have
finished their tour of combat and are
awaiting traveling orders......Four enlisted men were promoted to
the grade of T/Sgt. While another
three made Staff. These were all flying personnel as ground crews
ratings have been frozen for some
unknown reason. “Joe” Cherven was finally transferred from the
kitchen to the Motor Pool upon his
won repeated requests, but the also relinquished his
SERGEANCY......The battles of Cassino and
Russia were shown to an interested crowd at the movies
tonight......
23rd
Weather conditions around the target area kept our planes grounded
again today, although the sun shone
brightly in our own vicinity. Sun bathing is the fad among our
personnel these days with everyone
aspiring to a deep coat of tan. If there is nothing better to do a
number of the boys remove their cots
from the tents, strip to their shorts and bask for hours under the
rays – this will continue until some
unfortunate gets a severe case of sunburn......Since Major
Armistead left the organization for the U.S.
the dispensary is functioning without a medical officer and
getting along very nicely – cases needing
the attention of a qualified medico are referred to the Flight
Surgeon in the 486th ......A large quantity of
mail came into the squadron today, much to the relief of all
concerned. Much griping has been going
on about the mail deliveries since we arrived at Corsica and it is
hoped that from now on we'll get
regular communiqués from the home front – letters from home is
still the biggest morale
builder......Another new combat crew joined the squadron
today......”Adventures of a Rookie” was the
movie at the Group theater tonight......
24th
First mission of the day took off at 09:30 to destroy Poggibonsi
Viaduct, Italy. Twelve of our ships
were over the target at 10:30 and dropped their 88x500 bomb load
from 8500' without success. First
box overshot on 82°heading and the second box failed to find
target on initial run, made an attack on
262°and overshot the viaduct. No ack-ack or other opposition was
encountered on this “milk
run”......Second mission of five planes was in the air at 16:30.
Due to cloud coverage the primary
target was not bombed, but the alternate, the North Orvieto
railroad bridge was demolished. Bombs
paralleled the river as it approaches the bridge, with probable
hits on the bridge as they crossed it. large
fires were observed as a result in the target area. Ack-ack was
heavy, scant and inaccurate causing no
damage or casualties to our crew members. The following new combat
crew members joined the
squadron as of this date: Capt. Fred P. Camp, 1st Lts. Ferrell, L.
Holley, 2nd Lt. Harry D. George, F/O
Joseph E. Semenak, Sgt. James D. Grodell, S/Sgt. Carleton A
Coombes, Sgt. Donald C. Dick. Four
new ground crew replacements also joined the outfit today in the
person of: Pfc. Derwood Lindamood
and Pvts. George R. Fricks, James R. Fowkes, Pierre P.
Garvan......Staff Sergeants Daston, Fritch,
Rogers and Sorbello were promoted to Techs......”Standing Room
Only” starring Paulette Goddard and
Fred MacMurray was the flicker at the movies tonight......
25th
Stand-down was in effect until 16:00 hours when twelve of our
ships and crews prepared for a mission
over Orvieto road bridge. The formation was over the target at
18:00 hours, dropping their bombs from
their 9500' altitude very successfully. The first box started
short and crossed the southern approach to
the bridge with possible hits on the approach. 2nd box started
short, straddled center of bridge and
scored a direct hit. Enemy opposition was nil – all planes
returned safely to the field......”Peggy” was
on had this afternoon with hot coffee and donuts for all the men
in the squadron area. Apparently she
has a soft spot in her heart for the 487th or at least some of its
members as her visits are becoming more
frequent than has been the custom in the past......Otto Stellato
and his detail returned this afternoon
from Naples & Torre Annunziata where they have been for the
past four days, making contacts to
procure some fresh vegetables for the mess-hall. A truck load of
cabbage, onions and a few radishes &
cherries was the extent of their purchases – we understand that
some of Otto's relatives reside in
Torre......2nd Lt. Paul N. Spencer and S/Sgt. Theodore Iwan departed
today for a thirty day furlough in
the States much to the envy of their comrades......”Standing Room
Only” was repeated at the movies
tonight......
26th
First mission of today was over the target, Piteccio viaduct,
Italy at 10:38 hours and released 96x500 lb.
bombs from 10000' to no avail. Both boxes missed the target area
as it was difficult to ascertain bridge
aimed at by each box. It is believed that the bombs hit in the
vicinity of the second bridge south of the
target. No ack-ack or fighter opposition was encountered......At
16:00 hours the second mission took
off with the Orvieto railroad bridge once more as their target.
The formation was over the designated
area at 17:01 hours and very successfully dropped their bombs from
9400'. The first box crossed tracks
north of the bridge with possible hits on the approach. The
patterns of the second box started
approximately at the bridge with definight direct hits on the
southern approach. Again no ack-ack or
fighter opposition was encountered – all planes and crews
returning safely from the day's
operations......The progress of the Allies at the front is most
encouraging and boosted morale
considerably. Everyone expects Rome to fall within a day or so and
after that very quick action, so that
we can all return to our own peaceful country......Silver bars
today for Lts. Barry, Hobson &
Sherwell......2nd Lts. Foster and Schooley were today transferred
to Brooks Field, Texas. A lucky break
which they justly deserved after completing a tour of
combat......The six Infantry officers who have
been attached to us for the past week observing how the Air Corps
operates, returned to their own
outfits today probably entertaining ideas of a transfer......”Three
Hearts for Julia” starring Ann Sothern
& Melvyn Douglas was the picture at the movies tonight.
Although it was presented by the Group on
two evenings at Pompeii, it was worth seeing again......
27th
Mission Documents Castiglione RR Brat Rd and RR Br Bucine
N Viaduct
First mission of the day took off at 09:35 to bomb Castiglione de
Lago railroad bridge. The target was
reached at 10:42 and our twelve planes dropped 96x500 lb. bombs
from 10000'. The first box had a
compact pattern south of the bridge starting short with hits on
the tracks. Bombs from the second box
landed in the dust obscured area of previous formation, bombing to
the right and beyond the target. No
flak was encountered......Second mission for twelve of our
aircraft was in the air at 15:44 hours with a
railroad and road bridge at Necropoli, Italy, as the target for
their 96,000 lb. bomb load. The formation
was considerate in dropping their bombs as they distributed 48 on
the primary target and 48 on the
alternate, a road & railroad bridge N.W. of Pisa, Italy. The
bombs of the first box bombing the
alternate, landed across the tracks south of the railroad bridge.
The second box bombed the primary
target, with bombs crossing the road bridge scoring probable hits.
Ack-ack was heavy, light, moderate
and accurate, causing slight damage to three of our ships. All
planes and crews returned safely to the
field......Our combat crew personnel was strengthened with the
assignment of nine second lieutenants
and eight enlisted men......Results of the squadrons latest
courts-martial are: Pvt. A.D. Rice – 45 days
hard labor, $60.00 fine; Pvt. Wright – 30 days hard labor, $25.00
fine; Pvt. Harlan Smith, 4 months
hard labor, no fine......A new loud speaker was installed in the
area so that everyone could enjoy the
radio broadcasts and be informed of pertinent
announcements......Today's mail consisted of many burnt
and mutilated letters salvaged from a courier plane that ran into
difficulty somewhere between Naples
and Corsica......”Three Hearts for Julia” was repeated at the
movies tonight......
28th
Mission
At 07:50 hours today twelve 487th planes took off to bomb a
railroad bridge N.W. of Pisa, Italy, but due
to a cloud coverage the formation proceeded to the alternate
target, a bridge at PP L-750190 and
dropped 44x1000 lb. bombs from 9800' unsuccessfully. The first box
bombed just beyond target with
some bombs landing in the stream. Second box bombed beyond and to
the left of target, possibly with
a few bombs landing short of the tracks. No ack-ack or fighter
opposition was encountered on this
“milk run”......Sgts. Handzel and Moltzen returned to the squadron
today after completing a long
stretch of temporary duty with the Tactical Air Force......Cpl.
McKinney and PFC Lindamood left on
detached service to the 303rd Service Squadron in Pompeii. The
purpose of their mission is to salvage
armor plating from the ships we left behind when Vesuvius forced
us to evacuate the field......Morale
took another descent today when it was learned the Allies were not
as close to Rome as previously
reported by S-2 section. It seems like someone screwed up the bomb
line – they can't do those things to
us......There was no picture at the Group movies tonight......
29th
Mission Documents Bucine S Viaduct
At 10:29 hours twelve planes of the squadron took off to bomb a
railroad bridge at Bucine, Italy. The
first box bombed the center of the viaduct with three center spans
knocked down and the second box
bombed about 1500' beyond the target on the third pass after
failing to find the target previously. Their
48x1000 bomb load was dropped without interference of flak or
other enemy opposition and all planes
returned safely to their base......With these one and two missions
every day, and milk runs at that, the
combat boys are finishing up their tour of duty before they're
even know in the squadron. A great
number of them that came in at Pompeii are sweating out their
orders to go home. Rightfully it has the
ground personnel rather annoyed seeing them come and go with
absolutely no provision other than a
one and one-half percent rotation basis for the war weary Air
Force ground personnel. Some even
regret that they didn't fly when they first came over – they'd
either be home or no longer among us.
The men overseas would rather have something done about the
present situation than a lot of post war
Utopian world talk......The Catania courier returned today with
many fine Sicilian blood oranges and
other mess hall supplements......Plane guard has been abolished
since the arrival of a Puerto Rican
guard detachment. No one is quite sure of their nationality, but
whatever they are it's an appreciated
gesture......Poor mail service is prevalent and the situation is
doing nothing for morale......A few
practice shots from the field had everybody in their slit trenches
for a while the other night. Some
weren't aware that it was only practice and others were avoiding
falling shrapnel.......Deanna Durbin in
“Honeymoon Lodge” was the entertaining picture shown by the 340th
tonight......
30th
Mission Documents Lagara N Br
Alert for twelve ships and crews was at noon, but takeoff wasn't
until 15:50 hours. They were over
Guarcino road at 17:31 although clouds prevented the first box
from dropping their bombs and the
second box jettisoned 8x500 lb. bombs in the sea dropping the rest
to the right of the target scoring
possible hits in the edge of town. Flak was scarce and inaccurate
– all planes returned safely to the
base......Results of the entire Group's missions have been so poor
lately that Col. Chapman deemed it
necessary to call a meeting of all combat crew members this
evening. He told them that it would be
necessary to fly at a lower altitude and that they were to run on
the target until it was sighted. The
Colonel states further that there will be no stand-downs declared
early in the day until the push is over.
In other words the meeting consisted of a general calling
down......Cpl. Gross has returned from the
hospital after a serious operation, still rather pale......Another
new crew came in today namely: 2nd Lts.
Byars, Jones and Smith; S/Sgts. Bousquet, Ramsey and Sgt.
Maliszewski......Our first dance since Sfax
was held tonight in Cervione, a small village about five miles from
the base. No
one anticipated very
much and they weren't disappointed. There were at least 200 G.I.'s
in a stuffed unattractive hall with
approximately twenty French girls and Peggy of the Red Cross
brigade who sponsored the affair. A
fine colored band made up for a lot that was lacking although the
girls had quite a time trying to keep
up with the all American jitter-bugs. The main event for the girls
was the spam sandwiches and coffee
served following the dance. Mid-night saw the girls home with
their mothers.......Two air raid alerts got
the boys out of bed twice during the evening......”Honeymoon
Lodge” with Deanna Durbin was
repeated at the movie tonight......
Again today twelve ships of the 487th squadron took off at 07:45
hours to bomb troop concentrations at
a pinpoint a few miles beyond Rome. 93x500 lb. bombs were dropped
on the target and 3x500 were
jettisoned in the sea due to rack failure. Large fires and
explosions were observed as a result of the
excellent bomb pattern laid out by our formation. The 487th
formation received no flak although the
ships following were quite severely attacked. Apparently last
night's lecture had some effect on the men
judging from today's results – the lecture was repeated tonight
for the benefit of those who were absent
for the first session. All the foregoing was recorded on the
sortie report, but according to photos the
487th missed the target completely. After sending in a hundred
percent hits score, the photos were
received. No doubt there shall be repeat lectures in the next few
days only a little stronger......Crew
members returning from the 5th Army front today had many a hair
raising fact to impart. They spent the
entire week in fox holes 300 yards from the fighting lines moving
right up with the troops. Stories of
heaped casualties were none too fascinating.......Rotation mongers
were busy with rumors not two
minutes after twelve new ground men joined the squadron today.
However, official reports state that
they are not replacements, but additions to cover the new T/O.
We're still wondering where all the men
who are supposed to be leaving the States regularly are
located......S/Sgt. mathurin holds the title of
“Best Soldier in the Squadron” after almost two years instructing
experience with the Infantry boys.
After listening to him, it's no wonder he transferred to the Air
Corps......Sgt. Wolkes; PFC's Ballard,
Larson; Pvts. Sim Johnson, Katowski, Arlis, Krone, Kunst, Le Face,
Lane, Ledlow and Lee are the new
additions to the mess-hall, Armament and Communications......Sgt.
Liphardt finally made T/Sgt. as
section chief of the Photo lab. He's already wearing the stripes
upon instruction of the 1st
Sgt......Another two alerts had us up during the night –
fortunately no bombs were dropped in the
vicinity......”Johnny Come lately” with James Cagney played a
return engagement at the Group movie
tonight......
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
June 1944
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
i. Losses in action
Wounded in action over
Perugia Airdrome,
1. Bernard A Burton
Wounded in action over
Fano marshaling yards.
1. Joseph N. Hogarth
2. William P. Crandell
3. Jack L Parks, Jr.
4. Joseph P. Whalen
5. Edwin A. Kenyon
Wounded in action over
1. James D. Cordell
Wounded in action over
1. Joseph E. Semenak
(2) Personnel previously
reported as missing in action in raid over Perugia Airodrome April 6,
1944, have returned to
their organization.
1. Bernard A Burton
2.
3. George J. Simpson
j. Personnel who have distinguished
themselves in action.
1. George G. Birmingham
2. Bernard A Burton
3. James D. Cordell
4. William P. Crandell
5. Bernard J. Geors
6. Joseph N. Hogarth
7. Edwin A. Kenyon
8. Jack L. Parks, Jr.
9. Benjamin J. Porter
10. Joseph E. Semenak
11. Everard B. Sherwell
12. Joseph P. Whalen
13. Henry J. Schreiner
14. Robeert H. Pirnie
15. Leslie N. Lewis
16. Melvin L. Miles
17. Homer H. Willhite
18. Harvard F. Stewart.
19. John W. Watson
20. Jack E. Gellman
21. Archibald P. Samuels
War Diary June 1944
1st TOP
For the first time in
the squadron's history an eighteen ship formation was put into the air. All
three
boxes were over the
target of Fossato railroad bridge by
load with devastation
effects. First box straddled the western approach of the viaduct and the
following
boxes bombed in the
smoke cloud created by the first box. Flak was nil and all planes returned
safely......Huge amounts
of packages and newspapers came in today, but no first class mail to speak of.
Packages and newspapers
are nice to get if one is receiving letters regularly, but its rather annoying
when mail is almost a
month due now. Perhaps if current magazines would devote more space to
where the mail is
expedited rather than treating the subject generally, these soldiers who aren't
getting
any mail would be better
satisfied......The Group officers undefeated baseball team played a losing
game to the 487th team –
score 9 to 1 in our favor......Donuts and coffee were served by Lola in the
mess-hall this
afternoon. Such an afternoon is really an appreciated gift from the Red Cross
because it
gives the boys an
opportunity to get together and shoot the breeze for an hour or
so......According to
latest orders from
Headquarters, headnets[?] and leggings will be worn to the movies nightly,
consequently the
audiences should and no doubt will show a considerable decrease......A practice
formation was carried
out this afternoon with particular emphasis on formation flying and dry bomb
runs. It is suggested
that an addition be made to the sign at headquarters – bombing is our
sideline......”Johnny
Come Lately” was repeated at the movie tonight......
2nd
Mission
Combat crews were on
stand-by all day, but it wasn't until
a road bridge at
and successfully dropped
their 24,000 lb. bomb load from 8000'. The bombs fell beyond the target
with several hits within
the target area. Heavy, scant and inaccurate flak was encountered but none of
our ships were
holed......The Cairo carry-all returned today after a two weeks stay in the
famous
Metropolis. An excellent
time was had by all who made the trip and they did manage to return with
some fresh eggs and
oranges......PFC Glenn was today promoted to Corporal and it came as such a
surprise that Glenn was
speechless for a minute - “Anything can happen now” says Glenn......Fresh
neat hamburgers for
dinner today didn't taste too bad to us G.I's, but the way they were prepared
didn't
suit our civilian
Italian tailor and believe it or not he asked the Mess Sergeant for a “can of
Meat &
Beans”....Rumor has it
that plans are being formulated for opening another apartment of facsimile
there
of in
free time – provided the
place selected offers a few luxuries which were obvious by their absence in the
former sol called rest
camps......”Corvette” starring Randolph Scott was the picture shown at the
movies tonight......
3rd
Mission Documents
Take-off for eighteen
B-25's of the 487th Squadron was at
72x1000 lb. bomb load to
be dropped on the Vernio railroad bridge in
just sough of the bridge
and the second box bombed the Northern approach while the third hit short of
the target. Flak or
enemy fighter opposition were again obvious by their absence. 7I returned from
the
mission after a
mechanical failure caused the life raft to break loose, and doing so it struck
the elevator
forcing the plane into a
4000' dive. While the ship was in the dive two 1000 lb. bombs broke through
the bomb-bay doors
severing the hydraulic line. Lt E.P. Dombrowski crawled into the bomb-bay and
released the two remaining
bombs by hand......Besides eggs and oranges the
back watches and
cigarette lighters for the P.X. which were sold today before ninety-five
percent of the
squadron even saw them. Ice
cold beer is going to be sold tomorrow evening – one bottle per man.
Common consensus of
opinion is that G.I.'s still prefer
are still rampant and
outrageous as ever. Latest is that we go home for a thirty day leave before
commencing a voyage to
September, but thus far
no one has predicted the year......Sgt. Fuiks finally got off to Naples where
he'll
spend a few days with
the wife and kiddies – at least that his story......S-2 drew Sgt. Wolkes, our
one
and only new clerk,
claiming that they're badly in need of fresh talent......We're seeing little of
Sgt.
Parkins in the area
these last few days as he's supposed to be officiating in the construction of a
Group
E.M. Club. The Club is
going to provide a snack bar and many other delights when
completed......”Corvette”
unreeled for a second time at the movie tonight......
4th
Vernio railroad bridge
was again the target for six planes of the Squadron. They were over the target
at
the north approach
although no hits were observed on the approach. All planes returned safely to
naturally everyone was
happy to see Rome fall especially since the squadron has played such an
important part in the
Italian air offensive leading to the downfall of the Eternal City. Rome is the
first
European Capital to be
liberated in the present conflict and we hope that the remainder of them
following shortly.
According to all reliable news sources there is much importance attached to the
fall
of Rome and it all hinges
on the invasion......Cpl. Bartkus has already asked that a Special Service tour
of Rome be arranged as
soon as possible – everyone is eager to see the city, but that’s a little
towards the
extreme......Orders came in today authorizing the Distinguished Unit
badge for all members of the 340th
Bombardment Group who
participated in the Tunisian and Sicilian campaigns. We understand that the
98th Bombardment Group
and 57th Fighter Group are the only other Air Corps units to be so cited. If
we remain over here much
longer we'll resemble a bedecked Christmas tree upon our return to the
States although everyone
is quite well pleased with themselves and the 340th about now......1st Lt.
Robert M. Weaton joined
the squadron today......For the last few days the squadron area has taken on
the aspect of a bathing
beach with the boys parading around in shorts, exposing themselves to the
Corsican sun. The shorts
are of the underwear variety but they serve the purpose......Several of the
Cooks have set up a
make-shift shower close to their tents and claim that it is more convenient
than the
Group showers although
it looks like a lot of work to take a bath......No show on Sunday night......
5th
At
bridge in
box wasn't quite as
successful and bombed short to the left, but laid their pattern on the road
approaching the target.
Our formation encountered scant and heavy anti-aircraft fire, but so inaccurate
that no ships were
holed. Crews remained on the alert until another twelve ship formation was
called
to attack the same Orte
road bridge at
dropping their 96x500
lb. bomb load in an excellent pattern scoring direct hits, but observers
asserted
that the bridge remained
standing – no doubt the bridge is of a very durable masonry cement. This time
the formation
encountered heavy, scant and accurate flak although none of our ships were
holed......Everyone is
still talking about the fall of
realization of what the
Allies have been striving for ever since the invasion of
to
comprehend......Captain Linthicum reports that while he and Lt. Lukas were
wining in
a great deal of
commotion was caused by the entrance of King Farouk. They inquired of the
waiter as
to the identity of the
distinguished visitor and as he told them in hushed tones that it was the King,
Lt.
Lukas replied “Bring me
another beer”......Work on the squadron album is progressing quite rapidly
through the combined
efforts of all. Lt. Farley who has finished his missions and should be on his
way
home is waiting around
ti take the complete copy back for submission to the printer. “Greg” Moore is
doing a beautiful job on
the illustration work. All in all we expect to have something really worth
while when the war is
over and this is past history......Although “Five Graves to
before at Gaudo it's a
wonderful picture and was enjoyed again tonight.
D-
Little or no work was
done in the squadron today after Supreme Headquarters in
the event that the
entire world has been awaiting for the past two years – INVASION. It came as
such a
shock to everyone that
there were no answers and all just smiled – no doubt they were speechless. For
those of us who have
been overseas for sixteen months it as the day of all days, but to those who
have
been over a short time,
it as just something to be anticipated. All work was put aside while everyone
remained glued to the
radio for further progress. We now have reason for lack of mail in the past
weeks and are quite
satisfied to go without mail if it means we'll be on our way home
sooner......Two
missions this morning,
one following the other by twenty minutes. Target for the first six ships was
the
apparently
indestructible Orvieto south road bridge, while the second box of six planes
bombed the
Zeppanami road. Bombs
fell to the right of the road bridge with possible hits on the approach while
the
other formation crossed
Zeppanami road with their bombs and scored probable hits on buildings within
the target area. Neither
flak nor enemy fighter opposition were encountered on these engagements.
Shortly after the boys
took off they heard General Eisenhower announce the invasion over the radio
and from all reports
there was even much hilarity in the air. No doubt the good news had an effect
on
their bombing and they
anticipated a full day of operation, but were surprised to find a stand-down
had
been declared before
their return......Each man received a ration of one bottle of cold beer tonight
at
supper. It was our first
since Sfax and really hit the spot. The last crew returning from
enough that when added
to what we already had made enough to go around......”Five Graves to
was repeated at the
movies tonight......
7th
Mission
Crews remained alerted
throughout the day although takeoff was scheduled for
time twelve ships and
crews were bound for
formation proceeded on
to Cecena railroad bridge, the alternate target. No direct hits were observed
on
the bridge although it
is believed that some of the bombs cut the railroad tracks. The second box
possibly caused a road
block by laying a pattern that extended from the south approach of a highway
bridge to a group of
factory buildings within the target area. Spite escorting the formation were
seen to
peel off and dive
although it was not known what they might be attacking, but it was assumed that
they
might have spotted enemy
fighters – the formation met no resistance......Sgt. “Al” Kosak has adopted a
young Ram as a pet and
the animal follows him from one end of the squadron area to the other. It not
only has the human
members of the squadron bewildered as even the dogs belonging to other fellows
join in the parade with
Al leading and the dogs smelling and barking at the strange animal in their
midst. The Ram was
presented to Al by PFC Kwolek......Construction of the I.M.'s bar has begun
with
Cpl. McKinney doing his
best to make a replica of the one destroyed in the eruption of Vesuvius. A
detail went over to
fresh vegetables for the
mess-hall also......Lt. Lukas started a new idea today by checking out a couple
of magazines to read en
route to the target which only goes to show that “Look” is more interesting
than a combat mission
especially these days when flak is almost unheard of......News of the invasion
is
still unsatisfactory
although the reason for lack of details is that the enemy is more anxious for
data
than we are. Thus far
everything is progressing as expected and fighter landing strips are already
built
on the bridge-head. In
astonishing when you
consider the stalemate of a month ago......”Claudia” with Robert Young and May
McGuire played at the
movie tonight......
8th TOP
Mission Documents Bucine N
Viaduct
At
Due to heavy cloud
coverage all planes returned with their bombs with the exception of one ship
that
due to mechanical failure
salvoed their 4x1000 lb. bomb load......Throughout the entire day ack-ack
batteries around the
Airfield were sending practice shots in the air and regardless of our being
warned
ahead of time, it was
still a surprise each time a barrage was sent up. many were craning their necks
for Nazi bombers to no
avail......S/Sgt. Berry, our chief enlisted medic gave Lola of the Red Cross
unit
a shot where she's never
been kissed. Sick call patients were ushered out of the dispensary during the
tough performance, PFC
Burke remained at the typewriter but claims to be a touch typist......Sgt.
Netzner returned from
wonderful time although
his time was limited. Sgt. Fuiks finally caught a plane after overstaying his
three day pass by four
days – apparently his so-called wife has what it takes......Lts. Ronson and
Keogh
were returned to the
Zone of the Interior from temporary duty with the 87th Fighter Wing......Major
Schreiner, operations
officer since we entered combat, left for the States a few days ago with Capts.
Evans and Piruie, Lts.
Auter, Messier; T/Sgts. Gammage, Runney, Rabon; S/Sgts. Drause and
is now on thirty days
leave in the States will assume the duty of assistant upon his return......G.Q.
and
Latrine detail have been
temporarily abolished as there are enough men with extra duty penalties to
handle it for quite some
time......The Group flew its 399th and 400th missions today and it is believed
that this total of 400
missions is more than the total of any respective Group under the 57th Wing
being
in combat longer than
ourselves......”Claudia” was repeated at the movie tonight......
9th
At
182714. The designated
area was reached at
very good results,
although the first box bombed the alternate target, a bridge at A-170710. Their
pattern started on
bridge with 4 to 5 possible direct hits on the bridge. The second box bombed
the
target bridge hitting the
west approach of same approximately 300' to 400' short. Two ships of the
second box dropped their
bombs prematurely due to mechanical failure of bomb release. No ack-ack
of fighter opposition
was encountered, enabling all planes to return safely to the field......An
order for
all men to turn in all
of their woolen clothing to supply, paved the way for numerous rumors. The one
most talked of was the
possibility of this group being sent to the Pacific Theater. The original
ground
men of this organization
are very much against the spreading of such talk as sixteen trying months in
the European Theater is
more than enough for any man......R[?]eks & Neile have been spending their
idle moments for the
past week in enlarging their two man tent to a more spacious and comfortable
“home.” Capts. Linthicum
and Winebrenner after admiring their improvements decided to do likewise
and were observed last
night in the renovating process......”The Gangs All Here” starring Alice Faye
was
unreeled to an
appreciative audience at the movies tonight.....
10th
Mission Documents Fano M/Y
first and third box
struck Rimini M/Y with a great degree of accuracy, laying a pattern that
started at the point
near the station and extended entirely across the tracks into the buildings
beyond.
Second box bombed Fano
M/Y with just as good results extending their pattern from the warehouse
and entirely crossing
the marshaling yards. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate holing twelve planes
and wounding Sgt.
Hogarth in the pelvis and abdomen. The hydraulic system on the left side of 7D
failed causing the plane
to go off runway on landing and nosing over. All in all we had a pretty rough
day, but with it all,
two targets were wiped out......Several promotions were announced today: Cpls.
Mesler and Ivan Johnson
made sergeant and PFC Perrone made Corporal. Such outbreaks for ground
personnel aren't often
seen in this squadron any more......The Armament section presented Cpl.
Forsythe with a
caricatured birthday card before celebrating the occasion with several bottles
of
was reprimanded by a 2nd
Lt. which made it even worse for Sgt. Gillis. Supply called for each man to
turn in one blanket
which was done with reluctance this morning. Naturally, this started much
talk as they say “it's
warm in
becomes an actuality
there will be no more morale – an outfit without morale doesn't maintain a high
efficiency
standard......The 306th Service Group presented a U.S.O. show tonight,
featuring three
entertainers that if it
weren't for the U.S.O. program would have starved to death years ago in a
nickel
beer joint......”The
Gangs All Here” was repeated at the movies tonight......
11th
Stand-by was in effect
all day until a stand-down was declared late in the afternoon following
intermittent showers.
The showers that developed into a downpour before the evening was over didn'tn
stop the horseshoe
enthusiasts who continued to play throughout the inclement weather. Lt. Lukas
made a fair size fortune
by challenging any and all comers......F/O Simenak is replacing Lt. Sherwell as
Athletic officer of the
squadron. Lt. Sherwell has finished his missions and professes to be sticking
close to his sack as he
refuses to be among the missing when his walking papers come through. He's
taking no chances on
going to
day......The Catania
carry-all returned today with fresh vegetables and a good supply of liquor for
the
opening of the enlisted
Mans Club. The opening has been anticipated for almost as week now so we
can expect it at any odd
time......Our Italian K.P.'s had quite a time on the vino brought back from
very good although there
is still much to be desired in the way of facts from the French landing. It is
reported that the Allies
are now seventy miles beyond
considers the stalemate
of several weeks back......Rumor has it that the rotation that never really
went
into effect as far as
this Group is concerned has been canceled even for combat crews who have
finished their missions
which indicates that there will be another landing in
long which will require
the entire strength of the heralded 340th Bombardment Group......It being
Sunday there as no show
tonight......
12th
Target for today was a pinpoint
at Arezzo Viaduct in
participated as on ship
returned before reaching the target due to mechanical failure. A 40x500 lb.
bomb load was dropped on
the viaduct at
leading up to the
pinpoint itself..Enemy opposition was nil and all planes returned safely to the
base......1st/Sgt.
Parkins held a special session for those who failed to turn in their blankets
at
hours this evening.
Everyone appeared looking smart in their best summer uniform with rifle and
rifle
belt. The penalty was
much manual of arms followed by short order drill throughout the surrounding
area for several
hours......Tonight marked the opening of the enlisted mens bar with much
hilarity and
noise making. An
appropriate name would be “A little bit of
offered of Cherry
brandy, Cognac Vermouth and Vino. It is supposed that beer will eventually be
included on the menu,
that is, if beer can be procured. If intoxication means that the club was a
success
– it's a WOW......For
the first time since our bow to combat S/Sgt. Wilbur Snaper trusted S-2 to the
rest
of the staff and joined
one of the flights for
can expect anything from
now on......Allied progress on all fronts is a good indication that we may be
home by Christmas of
1944 providing we are returned to the States when the European conflict comes
to a halt. The reward
for our efficiency in this theater may be a transfer to the Pacific according
to
latest rumors although
it doesn't seem possible that the Army will deem our presence necessary to
winning the other part
of the war. No one minds sweating out this campaign, but
story......Special
Service announced that the show-goers could wait around in case a picture
popped out
of a tree - naturally no
such thing occurred and a disappointed crowd returned to their tents after an
hour or so wait to no
avail......
13th
Mission
Time over target was at
covering the sough
approach and south end of the target bridge. Ack-ack was scant and inaccurate
which surprised combat
crew members who had flown over the Perugia Airodrome not two months
previous encountering
one of the most deadly barrages of anti-aircraft fie thus far witnessed over
any
single target. Boys that
are coming into the Squadron now don't really know what a rough mission is
and consequently are
talking about what a [????] combat is with twenty or thirty flakless missions
to
their credit. The
fellows who went through the beachhead missions have a secret passion that the
Germans will make with
the ack-ack one of these days for the benefit of those who think that combat is
such a push
over......Tony Niele has forsaken his duties in the Motor Pool for a transfer
to the Photo
Lab. It should prove to
be a break for Tony because the rating he's been sweating-out is there......Lt.
Risch, who joined the
Squadron at Pompei departed for the States today after completing a tour of duty.
We no sooner get to know
them and they're off for home these days of many missions......Our new
Medical Officer came in
yesterday – his name is Lt Forest M. Kendall and on sick call this morning he
impressed everyone by
his concern over individual cases......The new E.M. Club provided another
hilarious evening this
P.M.......Capt. Young delivered a speech on Chemical Warfare which was
supposed to last for one
hour and a half, but fortunately it lasted only about twenty-five minutes. If
we
hadn't heard it all at
least a dozen times before it might not be so annoying. Before Capt. Young took
over the Squadron
meeting, Capt. Birmingham complimented both the ground and air men for their
efficiency during the
big push in
air daily for the time
being......Bing Crosby in “Going My Way” was the feature at the Group movie
tonight......
14th
Mission Documents Pietrasanta
Br / Savaiona Via
Six 487th crews and
planes loaded with 1000 lb. bombs took off at
[?]-588978. the
formation reached the target at
too successfully. Bomb pattern
hit near the north tunnel mouth at a point northeast of the viaduct
which enters the tunnel.
Most of the pattern was over and it is believed that the tunnel mouth was not
hit by the pattern
although it is possible that several of our bombs may have hit the north end of
the
viaduct. Anti-aircraft
fire was heavy, scant & inaccurate. For to six enemy aircraft were observed
at
the target area. From
three to four made attacks on our box and one of our planes, 7N, was attacked
from below. Turret
gunner, S/Sgt. J. E. Kelley reports that he saw tracers from his guns hit the
E/A
which was about 600
yards away when he fired upon it and peel off, diving towards the earth in
flames.
All planes returned
safely to the base and crew members admitted that the mission was an exciting
one......another
Chemical Warfare lecture scheduled for tonight was postponed much to the
delight of all
concerned......Our
undefeated base-ball team played another victorious game with the quartermaster
laundry on the short end
of a 9-5 score......Lt. Deere returned from
he wants to be reminded
of those happy summer civilian days. S/Sgt. Lincks and McClerman who
were also resting up at
hospital since our
arrival in
and looking a lot better
too......”Jam Session” was the film attraction at the Group movie tonight......
15th TOP
Six of our planes and
crews took off this morning at
Fabrica Viaduct at
pinpoint C-512939. The target was reached at
their bombs from 9000'
with poor results. Their pattern overshot the bridge starting approximately
1000 feet to the east
and extending through the wooded area east of the bridge. No ack-ack or other
enemy opposition was encountered
adding another combat mission to the “milk run” list......Now that
only six of our planes
are participating in the Group's missions, many of the boys are spending their
idle time down at the
beach acquiring a coat of tan. Even though it doesn't make one feel better, it
makes for a healthier
appearance......At
prepared to hit the slit
trenches when an announcement was made over the loud speaker that their was
not cause for alarm – an
unidentified vessel out in the sea was being fired upon for recognition –
apparently it was
friendly as she did not return the fire......The mail delivery is still a
critical situation
and has everyone
guessing. When mail is delivered regularly many things are overlooked, but lack
of
any word from the home
front makes all of us irritable and minor incidents become major
problems......”Jam
Session” was repeated at the movies tonight......
16th
Mission
Pietrasanta road bridge
at Pinpoint U-963938 was the target for twelve of our ships and crews this
morning – takeoff 10:45.
The formation was over the target at
with an excellent degree
of accuracy although it was difficult to plot the exact pattern due to smoke
coverage caused by
previous bombings. However, it is known that direct hits were scored within the
target area. Heavy,
medium, intense and accurate flak was encountered wounding S/Sgt. Cordell who
was flying in 7E. The
flak was removed from S/Sgt. Cordell's body on the field before he was taken to
the hospital.
Unfortunately, the new boys are finally finding out how really rough mission
can
be......Capt. Birmingham
and a ship load of pleasure seekers left for
Snaper who just returned
from
determine whether or not
he is to become a 2nd Lt. What irked Wilbur most was the fact that this was
the first time he's been
away since being overseas......We all enjoyed the reading of the Articles of
War
by 1st/Sgt. Parkins this
evening – there must be purpose to the semi-annual occasion but it's difficult
to
figure out just what it
is......Our baseball team, undefeated until tonight, lost their first game of
the
season to the ack-ack
boys coming out on the short end of an
called this afternoon to
drop leaflets advising all German soldiers to surrender immediately and they
would receive food,
medical attention and would be removed from the combat zone promptly. With all
that in the offing they
should be eager although in order to comply they'd have to dodge the bullets
from behind them
according to all rules of combat......The Island of Elba was invaded tonight by
French
forces fighting in
tonight......
17th
Breakfast at
A.M. but when the trucks
arrived at Group Operations a stand-down had been declared, however, we
were on an immediate
stand-by throughout the day. Even though there is no mission the organization
must go through all the
motions which makes for just as hectic a day if not more so because there is
just as much work and
nothing is accomplished. Crews after getting up before the crack of dawn are a
very unpleasant lot
after finding that they left their comfortable couches for no good
reason......Stars
and Stripes have been
coming in very sparingly since we've been on the
received not more than
fifteen issues which indicates that Corsican based units have little or no
priority
status......Cokes and
P.X. rations were distributed today which tended to relieve the monotony
despite
the fact that they
weren't the best rations we've ever received. The
stations as we had
everything there that the Army has to offer including excellent food and super
candy
rations to say nothing
of the surrounding local color......T/Sgt. Liphardt has been seeing quite a bit
of a
Red Cross belle in
the sad news that she
was being transferred to
left the
Liphardt is already
making tentative plans for a hop to
repeated at the Outdoor
theater tonight......
18th
Stand-down was declared
in the morning to be in effect until
intermittent shower kept
planes on the ground for the remainder of the day. Capt. Birmingham's plane
rumored to have gone to
back an abundance of beverages
Italiano for the Enlisted Mens Club......Several promotions made the
bulletin board today -
2nd Lts. Cook, Curley, and Gurrentz are now wearing their silver......F/O Smith
was honorably discharged
from the Army to accept the commission of 2nd Lt......Orders come through
so fast now for combat
crews to return to the States, that it's a few days before they're even missed
as
was the case with Sgts.
Stokes and Mataurin who departed yesterday for the Z of I......S/Sgt. Crosby,
who served a tour with the
12th Bombardment Group and returned to this theater of operations upon his
own request has almost
finished another tour but wants to go home on the thirty day deal and return
rather than go back on
the rotation basis. That is something that none of us can understand although
Sgt. Crosby says, “We'll
be of the same opinion after two weeks in the worse than chicken s____
States.” After hearing
the stories of boys who have returned to an operation[???????] following their
rotation to the States
it doesn't leave very good taste in our mouths as to what's in store for us
providing
we are ever
rotated?......The boys of the Squadron had a letter from S/Sgt. Stanley Dealio,
an ex-487th
gunner who is now
stationed at a field in Mass, with an organization preparing for overseas
combat.
T/Sgt. Grillo reports
from
as is......As usual, no
movie on Sunday night.....
19th
Another missionless day
although a stand-down wasn't declared until
left the base for
everywhere on
anywhere, however, the beach
is always available and that seems to be the most popular spot
nowadays. A threatening
sky with an occasional shower made for a most uneventful day......Mail in fair
quantity came in for the
second consecutive day absolutely amazing the recipients as well as pleasing
them no end. It was
quite a bit of old stuff but nevertheless enthusiastically received......The
Cairo
commandos returned this
P.M. after enjoying a two week leave divided between
They brought back
everything by the kitchen sink which includes baseballs, film, watches, beer,
cigarette lighters, eggs
and any number of interesting items. The only pity is that they can't bring
itself back or better
yet,
women are wonderful”
they exclaim. Our most welcome returning commando is Capt Norick[sp?] the
Group dentist and one of
our best commandos by the way – a real character. Orders just came through
from Group that the will
be no more ground personnel going to
news for those who were
planning on making the trip......At a staff meeting this evening, awards and
citations plus more
publicity were the main topics. It smells like an eager beaver in a higher
headquarters, although a
well know Group should have the advantage of priority when the time for
rotation shows its
welcome shadow......Allied progress is still remarkable. Late bulletins report
our
troops to be within six
miles of
one can hardly
comprehend its swiftness......”Lady Takes A Chance” with Jean Arthur was the
entertaining picture at
the Group movie tonight......
20th
Stand-down all day in
favor of some training schedule. Combat crew members anxious to complete
their missions are not
at all in favor of the lull as the quicker they roll up the score the sooner
they'll hit
the home shores. Ground
men however, for the most part are welcoming the respite as the going has
been no easy job for
them during the past six weeks – especially the men on the line who are taking
advantage of the beach
for a rest and a good sun tan......Fresh eggs for breakfast this morning had
everyone up for the treat.
A long unserved line at
very much needed and
appreciated. The Medics worked hard all day putting a wooden floor in the
Dispensary and
beautifying the place all around as per orders from the Group Surgeons
office......Capt.
Hauser, Lt Sherwell and
S/Sgt. Holzman are three disappointed people – after getting everything in
readiness for the trip
home and being advised that their orders were in the squadron, they suddenly
discover that for some
unknown reason the precious documents were canceled – a slap in the face to
any war-weary
individual. Capt. Hauser went on detached service to the 57th Wing as of today
–
perhaps while there
he'll get the score on the situation. Meanwhile Lt. Sherwell and Sgt. Holzman
will
“sweat it out” in
traditional army style......”Lady Takes a Chance” was repeated at the movies
tonight
making it the fourth
time for a showing of the film to this Group.
21st
A stand-down was in
effect all day until
17:40. The formation was
over their target, a road bridge at
dropped their 24,000 lb
bomb load with a fair degree of accuracy. Bombs landed in the smoke of
previous formations and
believed to have crossed the southern approach to the bridge with possible hits
on the rail bridge to
the right. No anti-aircraft fire or other enemy opposition was encountered
thereby
chalking up another
“milk run” for our combat boys......Two more members of our ground personnel
left for the States on
the ½ of 1% rotation plan. They are lucky fellows, T/Sgt. Gaffney and Cpl.
“Bill”
Stephens, both eager for
a glimpse of the home shores, but no more than the rest of the weary ground
crew members. When do
“I” go home? is the uppermost thought in the minds of all those going on
seventeen months in the
war zones......The squadron is supplying daily details to erect a Red Cross
club
on the field for the
benefit of the 340th Group. Work on the project was begun almost two weeks ago
and up to the present
time only a cement floor has been accomplished. No doubt the structure will be
completed about the same
time we receive moving orders......Too much time on the beach has resulted
in some severe cases of
sun-burn and the boys were urged to take precaution when acquiring a
suntan......”
We've never been Licked”
was the film unreeled tonight to an appreciative audience......
22nd TOP
The 487th lost its first
crew in a long time over the heavily defended Gricigliana rail bridge at pinpoint
Q-713953. The bomb load
was 20x1000 S.A.P. and 216x20 frags. Although due to the intensity of
ack-ack it was impossible
to plot the bomb pattern but it is believed to have overshot the target. 7C in
which Lts. Casey,
Dombrowski, Harry George, S/Sgt. A[??]stom; Sgts. Kaplan and Obrovata were
riding
was hit by flak on the
bomb run just after dropping its bombs. The plane was observed to be on fire
before it exploded upon
impact with the ground. Only one parachute was seen exiting from the ship
although one observer
reported two or more black dots coming from the ill-fated craft but no
parachutes were seen to
open. F/O Semenak was slightly wounded by flak in
another ship. Accidents
of this kind are bound
to happen in war but regardless of when they do its a shock to the entire group
and is remembered
perhaps not outwardly, but felt deeply......Lt. Farley is finally wearing the
captain
bars that he's known
have been on orders for sometime although it became official today. Now all he
has to do is complete
the album and make for the States......Word is going around that any combat
crew
member who has not put
in one year of overseas duty will fly 70 missions before returning to the Z of I
Which is quite a leap
from the prescribed fifty missions to a tour. Quite naturally it isn't going
over too
big with the boys
although anything new and more difficult is never accepted with enthusiasm. The
question still arises s
to our U.S.O. buddies who have never left the home shores......487th Sqdn's.
first
ship to land in
anxious to see the
customary donuts and
coffee in the mess-hall this afternoon through the courtesy of the Red
Cross......”We've never
been Licked” was repeated at the movies tonight......
23rd
Group briefing was
scheduled for
Group to be briefed a
stand-down had been declared fro the remainder of the day. Naturally, a great
majority took off for
the beach while others hit their sack in the customary G.I. fashion......Most
encouraging note of the
day was the arrival of four new ground crew replacements namely: Cpl.
kind not only boosts
morale but makes room for more rumors, all dealing with rotation which is a
most
cherished subject among
the ground personnel of the 487th Squadron.....Cpl. Burton who was supposed
lost on April 6th over
Perugia Airdrome returned to the Squadron this evening. He told of how he
parachuted to the ground
before the plane in which he was gunner crashed. Since that time he lived in
the hills awaiting the
Allies or a chance to escape which finally presented itself and Cpl. Burton
made
his way through the
lines after being picked up by the Germans and escaping again from the guard.
He
says it was a hell of a
sweat but he's thanking God that he's still alive. Lts. Finney and Simpson are
still
hiding out in the hills
according to Cpl. Burton, but the rest of the crew is believed dead. Cpl.
Burton is
now only attached for
rations while he awaits orders to go home, a fate to which he's entitled......The
that its the most
beautiful city yet seen on the continent.
making it so entirely
different from neighboring
played at the movie
tonight......
24th
No mission again today
which made way for the swimmers and sun bathing artists at the beach. Most
of the regular habitués
are sporting an even coat of Corsican suntan......Everyone seems to have lost
interest in going to
inaugurated as yet, 57th
Wing is supposed to have taken a hotel in the
camp but its still in
the formative state......Sgt. Karl Platz delivered a lecture on Chemical
Warfare this
evening which was
attended by all and not voluntarily. If gas is ever used in this war it is
doubtful if
the enemy will seek out
the 340th when there are so many more vital areas although one must admit its
best to be prepared for
the worst......The entire squadron is talking about Walter Winchell's latest
prediction concerning
the war – “It will end in six weeks” which if correct makes the finale on or
about
July 24th. Naturally
everyone is eager to believe the most optimistic of opinions, however, nothing
is
impossible in this
screwy conflict. It is also believed that the fall of
any moment now, is the
key to further landings on the continent......”No Time for Love” was repeated
at the movies
tonight......
25th
Stand-by was in effect
all morning until a stand-down was declared for the rest of the day. It's
impossible to ascertain the
reason for all these stand-downs as the weather seems to be especially good
for raids, but perhaps
the weather office has different ideas. T/Sgt. Liphardt picked a bad time to
take
leave in
regularly of late which
has improved morale no end. The only one who isn't interested in the arrival of
mail is Cpl. Nelson the
Mail Orderly. S/Sgts. Holzman and Hartley got off for the States today after
completing their tour
and just getting their papers in under the line as neither one of them had been
overseas a year nor had
they finished 70 missions. Both intend to give up flying for pencil pushers
positions lasting for
the duration. A squadron EM's meeting was called tonight to discuss prices of
the
PX and liquor – one or
the other must be raised to build up the squadron fund. It takes money to buy
these eggs and other
delights that are brought back from
Roger Lynch had apparently
been drinking too strenuously this evening which promoted their decision
to wake up the entire
squadron about
vicinity was wide awake
for the air read alert at mid-night.......No movie on Sunday night as usual
giving
the operator a night
off. Our cherished rifles were called in today and a good wager would be that
not
five percent of them
were ever fired. They say we're going to get carbines which will be a little
easier
to cart around anyway......
26th
No mission again today
although a stand-by was in effect until
was declared. Weather
was given as the reason. A stand-down always means an easy day, but
surprisingly the boys
would rather run a mission because it makes us that much closer to the end, at
least that's the
opinion......Carbines were distributed today. They seem to be a nice little
weapon
although [???] cares for
little weapons”. Anyway they'll be much easier to carry around but the thing
everyone is worrying
about now is the new manual of arms that goes with the carbine......Italian
lire is
at a premium these last
few weeks as so many are leaving the
Corsican francs for any
other money even at an Army Finance office. The only thing one can do is buy
a money order providing
you know far enough in advance of your journey otherwise you're up the
creek unless some kind
soul has foreign money to offer. It seems like a very inefficient system for an
organization as far
advanced as the
days in the African
city. No one failed to purchase a straw hat which are now being worn at various
angles throughout the
squadron area, the strangest things appeal to a G.I. From all reports there
isn't an
awful lot to do in
encourage a long waiting
list for
to the Photo lab. At his
own request. He never liked the Medics but had to remain there until a
replacement came in –
it's here and Bruno's out......Betty Grable gave the boys a leg show tonight in
“
27th
Stand-down again today
although the Squadron was on a stand-by until late afternoon. Missionless
days are beginning to
get monotonous even though they provide much leisure. Everyone is wondering
just when we're going to
go to work on
country. This is all
assuming that we follow the ground troops in an invasion of
landing is
accomplished......News of the capture of the great
enthusiasm in the
Squadron today. After securing the beachhead,
objective so now with
the huge port at the Allies disposal we should see considerable gains in
estimate......Seventeen bags
of packages and mail came in today which is our largest delivery since
coming to
today when his promotion
from Second to First Lieutenant was announced......Lt. Sherwell bid the boys
a final farewell before
taking off on the first day of his homeward trip this afternoon......”
was repeated at the
movie tonight......
28th
Early last evening Group
called for a
to
consequently a
stand-down was declared. Threatening showers persisted throughout the morning
and
afternoon although by night
fall a clear sky was overhead......Our first carbine inspection was held this
afternoon in the area.
At the time we received the guns they were in perfect shape so the inspection
was no more than a check
to determine who did and who didn't have a piece. Naturally there was no
need for the customary
cleaning procedure before usual inspections......The mail situation has so
improved that it
eliminates our most profound bitch. For the last week, a mail call daily has us
beside
ourselves with joy. “It
can't last” is the common opinion......The 487th seems to be monopolizing the
Group dentist time of
late judging from the number of toothless grins encountered throughout the
area.
It must be the quality
of the food eaten overseas that accounts for the loss of teeth as it isn't
natural for
the majority of men
within service age to lose teeth as they have been doing. If something isn't
done
shortly about getting us
home the outfit will become know as the “Toothless 340th” out of
necessity......We're
still awaiting the opening of the Red Cross Enlisted Men Club in which a great
number of the Squadron
personnel did work details......”The Bridge of San Luis Rey” was the movie
tonight......
29th
Mission Documents Imperia
RR Br
The Squadron's first
raid in six days took off at
bomb load scoring
several direct hits. It is believed that one span of the bridge is down as a
result of
487th bombing accuracy.
No opposition was encountered and crews were able to make valuable
observations of harbor
activity at Imperia. Its been such a long time since we've run a mission that
its
almost novelty. Here's
hoping that we start on
quite an experience –
the entire navigation equipment had gone on the fritz leaving them out over a
body of water and no one
was sure of what body of water it might have been....All agreed that it was
really a sweat until
they sighted
real American fried
chicken is served and washed down with beer or scotch. Jim is a colored
American
band leader who was
caught in
business since that
time. They say that
years......Group
personnel are already wearing their Distinguished Merit badge but the Squadron
hasn't
gotten around to passing
ours out as yet. They say there is a lot of red tape to it and we'll have it in
a
few days......Even the
Red Cross girls are going home now although unfortunately that no indication
that we'll be
following......”The Bridge of San Luis Rey” was repeated to satisfied audience
at the
movie tonight......
30th
Nine ships of the 487th
Squadron attacked the Pietrasanta railroad bridge this morning at
carrying both frags and
demolition bombs. Due to cloud coverage it was difficult to observe absolute
results although it is
believed that the demolitions hit their target while the frags raised hell with
five or
six motor vehicles going
along the highway just north of the bridge. Heavy, moderate and accurate flak
was encountered holing
five of our ships. apparently the window was quite ineffective due to the fact
that the bombing flight
went too far north of the initial point and target......We now have Crandell,
Hurlbut and Serangeli
running around as first Lieutenants rather than seconds. Baskerville, Bielski,
Coleman, Lewis,
Collamore, Powers and Triungo are now sporting a second rocker which has ground
personnel who have been
sweating out ratings for months burning......Paul Wright, who was recently
released from the guard
house is presently holding forth in the Ordnance section......S/Sgt. Coombes
was caught off the base
one evening and is suffering as a flying private because he did not have a
pass.
Guess he'll get a pass
from now on?.....Fresh from the land of the free and the home of the brave came
S/Sgt. Walter H.
Shanessy and Cpl. Eugene Schlosser to replace two war weary 487th members we
hope. If people continue
to come in its a cinch that some will go home sooner or later, so the Squadron
continues to sweat out more
G.I.'s......Along with our pay today we received the Distinguished Merit
Badge awarded to the
Group sometime ago, everyone got one but those joining the Group after August
17th will only be able
to wear it during their tour of duty with the 340th. P.B.S. beer was rationed
at the
rate of two quart bottle
per person this afternoon. Home was never like this: beer, pay day, D.M.
badges and what have
you......”Up in Arms” with Danny Kay and
tonight.....
.
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley
I. Losses in action
1. 2nd Lt. Carl Genian
2. S/Sgt. Elemer E.
Ryerson
3. 2nd Lt. Steven
Gerolde
4. F/O Charles F.
Donovan
5. 2nd Lt. Bernard Bloomberg
6. T/Sgt. Paul G. Daston
J. Personnel who have
distinguished themselves in action.
1. 2nd Lt. Gerald U.
Ashmore
2. 2nd Lt. Bernard Bloomberg
3. 2nd Lt. Edward P.
Dombrowski
4. Capt. Floyd F. Hauser
5. 2nd Lt. Robert B.
Hicks
6. Sgt. Eugene P.
Simonson
7. 2nd Lt. Harold M.
Sterling
8. 1st Lt. James L.
Williams
Mission Documents Prato RR Br
and tunnel
At
although some observed
smoke emitting from a building within the target area. Six planes were holed
and one man was injured
by the flak encountered in the target vicinity......The squadron album is
almost
near completion and
ready for presentation to the printer which is one good job finished. Capt.
Farley
and Sgt. Moore have been
getting the material together for the last month. Capt. Farley will leave for
the States within the
next few days carrying with him the proposed squadron album. There in some
doubt as to whether it
will be released before the war's end, but it makes little difference as long
as we
have it coming......Last
night after supper, 1st/Sgt. Parkins called everyone out for a through policing
detail in anticipation
of a visit by General Knapp today. All were instructed to be properly dressed
and
use their best military
manners. Needless to say, we in the area saw nothing of General Knapp, but he
did visit the
line......News on all fronts seem to indicate an early victory although the
Allies in
aren't pushing as we all
expected once the initial landing was successful. Another question constantly
put forth is, “when are
the other such heralded landings taking place.” Guess we all expected too much
in a short time......”Up
in Arms” was repeated at the movies tonight......
2nd
Mission Documents Borgo San
Lorenzo Viaduct
The 487th squadron put
twelve planes in the air this morning to bomb Borgo S. Lorenzo viaduct in
fire was heavy, moderate
and accurate becoming more intensified in the immediate vicinity of the
target. Three planes
were holed and S/Sgt. Ryerson received the Purple Heart for cheek wounds.
Ryerson is walking
around with a bandage on his face and explains it by saying “she had long
fingernails”......When
Fred Rech prepared to retire last night he was amazed to find his sack and bed
roll
well filled with a
Jackass. He rushed down to the card game in search of the guilty party, but as
yet he
has not been able to
uncover the criminal......Someone claims they heard a song dedicated to the
340th
Bombardment Group over
B.B.C. one evening recently......Between the hours of 9 and 12 today all
members of the squadron
were put through the gas chamber. It was a chance to give our new type gas
masks a tryout – they
all worked with the tear gas and no one is anxious to find out their value in
actual
chemical
warfare......It's rumored that another plane will leave for
week......No show on
Sunday night......
3rd
Six planes of the 487th
participated in the Group formation attacking a fuel dump at
planes took off at
incendiary bombs from
10,000' with excellent results. The bomb pattern extended through center of
target area with blue smoke
and several explosions observed from Northeast corner of target area.
Anti-aircraft fire was
heavy, moderate & accurate, holing four of our planes, but all planes and
crews
returned safely to the
base......A rumor to the effect that an invasion of
had every one on edge,
but also it proved to be just another rumor......F/O Semenak our Athletic
Officer
had a detail at work
erecting another volley ball court. Volley Ball enthusiasts have taken a back
seat
since our days at
until many follow
suit......The Enlisted Men's Club was without beverages for the first time
since
opening night and the
vicinity of the club was deserted. Stellato is in
it's hoped that the dry
spell won't be for long......A P-47 belly-landed on our field this morning. The
pilot, a Major, thought
his landing hear was down – was he ever surprised. Fortunately he landed the
plane without
disaster......”True to Life” with Dick Powell was the picture shown at the
movie tonight.....
4th
The fireworks of a
customary July 4th were confined to the battle front this year and the 487th
went on
in the usual way. Every
holiday seems to bring back fond memories of days gone by when the 4th of
July meant picnics,
cuttings, dances, fireworks and generally a day of celebration......Liquor was
brought from
sorrows in the patent
beverages......A stand-down was in effect all afternoon and almost the entire
squadron stood-down at
the beach. It's surprising the number of people that have acquired a coat of
tan......Several of the
boys have started correspondence courses lately and seem to be doing quite well
with them. Cpl. Porter
is studying bookkeeping which he says has been “a life long desire with
him”......Cpl. Cross is
playing Papa to a puppy no bigger than a human hand. He relates that the first
night he had the pup it
cried continuously until Irv took it in bed with him. After the pup wet the bed
three times Irv set up a
rigid training program for the dog which seems to be working out quite
well......T/Sgt.
Liphardt has announced his engagement to a
Liphardt has been in the
air ever since she accepted via the
the second and last time
tonight. The Russians are still going like a house on fire and are keeping our
morale up by their great
victories.
5th
Six 487th planes and
crews loaded with 43x250 lb. bombs took off to bomb the Ostiglia fuel dump.
Due to malfunction 5x250
lb. bombs were brought back. The formation reached the target at
hours and dropped their
bombs from 9800'. Bombs landed beyond, starting in the river immediately
north of the target and
extended across the island in midstream. There was no anti-aircraft fire much
to
the delight of all
concerned. This was the first time in quite a few trips over enemy territory
that no
flak was encountered.
The formation was attacked by three or more E/A, probably ME 109's. They
were dark mottled color
which made at least two passes from the rear at
observed until after the
attack was made and then one “Spit” of the escort was observed to have
engaged the E/A. One
ship holed by enemy aircraft was the only damage done to our
formation......Lts.
Firney and Simpson
returned today after being shot down over enemy territory during a bombing
mission on April 6th.
Lt. Finney gave a talk to combat crew members of the squadron this evening
about their escape from
enemy held territory, it was interesting and informative......”Four Jills in a
Jeep” was unreeled for
the first time at the movie tonight......
6th
Mission Documents Pianora RR Br; Parma E
Br
Twelve ships took off at
flight was able to drop
their bombs due to a malfunctioning bombsight. The bomb pattern was
excellent, crossing the
center of the bridge. The formation was under continuous anti-aircraft fire for
from eight to ten
minutes which holed eight of the ten planes......Pvt.
released from the guard
house today following his trial for getting drunk and tough with an officer. He
is confined to the base
for three months and will probably have finished his missions by the time the
restriction is
lifted......S/Sgt. Harry Warasavich is back from the hospital, but only on limited
duty
following a serious bone
condition brought about by too much lifting in the Armament
Section......S/Sgt.
Jackson Dunlap has been relieved of assignment to the 487th squadron and will
leave
for the States any day
now. He recently received a cable from the Red Cross concerning his sister who
is very near death as a
result of a serious ailment. It took only two and one-half days after he got
started on the papers
which is pretty good time considering the Army's endless red tape......Our last
ration of Coca Cola was
received today according to the latest rumor which says that beer is replacing
the all American
beverage......”
7th
Stand-down all day which
is quite a relief to combat crew members who have been flying
daily.......After trying
to get away for months, S/Sgt. O'Bryant finally left for a week rest in
O'Bryant has spent the
last few days rushing around the area trying to change francs for Italian
Lire......Several
promotions were announced recently and among them were 2nd Lt. Owen, Miller,
Lovinfosse, Lantz and
Farnham who made First Lieuys. Lt.
home – has almost
finished his missions......P.X. rations were distributed today in pretty fair
quantity.
However, the choice of
cigarettes was ala African, Old Golds,
Gordon, a new comer from
the States went for his first ride in a B-25 today. He was one of those
36,000 washed out Cadets
who were thrown into the Infantry, but he was fortunate enough to remain in
the Air Corps as a
ground man......Lt. Hale is keeping track of his missions on Italian ten lire
notes. Ten
cents a mission is a
cheap price for a good souvenir......Rumor has it that heavies will take over
this
field shortly and we'll
go over to the
Wing's rest camp in
to the
8th TOP
Stand-down again today.
It's hard to figure out these mission-less days, but it must be weather or lack
of more bridges to blow
up. The other squadrons were sent out today and missed the target, but were
sent right back after
it. Apparently someone was disturbed about the whole thing and as a result
credit
will be given for only
one mission......We had steak for dinner which was our first since being on
command of the squadron
in Major Parsons' absence. Major Parsons is leaving for
transferred to the Photo
Lab is taking advantage of his newly acquired knowledge and gaining
experience by knocking
out many personal photographs......New 12th Air Force shoulder patches have
come in and will be
distributed by Supply within the next few days. Some of the boys used their
influence and are
already sporting the attractive patch. However, there should be enough for
everyone
when they get down to
issuing them......Crowds at the Enlisted Mens Club seems to be more reserved
lately, at least there
isn't so much noise coming from within. Perhaps too many people have been sick
too many times to imbibe
as freely as they did in the past. “What a Woman” was repeated at the
movies tonight.
9th
The Squadron was on
stand-by all morning until one-thirty at which time a stand-down was declared.
As usual, not fifteen
minutes after the stand-down was declared every combat crew member was on his
way to the beach. It
won't take many more stand-downs to completely change the color of the 487th
combat personnel. Some
members of the ground crew are displaying a nice coat of tan also......Maj.
parsons and a plane load
of men left for
something from
Pvts. Harlan Smith and
Arthur Rice after completing their respective sentences......S/Sgt. Ritchie was
finally transferred after
trying ever since he's been with the squadron. He really got a break by going
with the A.T.C......It's
amazing to see the number of boys who are waltzing around with the
Distinguished Merit
Badge much in evidence. The surprising thing is that the ones who are wearing
it
have hardly been with
the organization long enough to merit a star. Those who are authorized the
Badge as a permanent
part of their uniform are saving it for the appreciative eye of the home
front......A
daily mail call has the
squadron's spirits on a pretty high level......Sunday night and consequently no
movie......
10th
At
attack the marshaling
yards at
their bombs from 10200'
with only fair results. The first box pattern landed short of the yards while
bombs of the second box are
believed to have crossed the M/Y in the southern half. Orange flames and
smoke were observed in
the yards as a result of the bombing. Heavy, scant and inaccurate anti-aircraft
fire was encountered,
but no damage was inflicted on our ships and all returned safely to the
base.....Lts. Sterling,
Narusewicz, S/Sgts. Crosby, Leatherwood and
morning on the first leg
of their thirty day furlough in the States. All are expected to rejoin the
outfit
within two months to
take up where they left off in their combat missions......Anti-aircraft
batteries on
the field were
practicing all day in preparation for any unwelcome visits from our
enemy.......Cpl.
Sobansky was nursing a
swollen hand all day today after being bitten by one of
during his sleep.
“Everything happens to me” is all Ted says about the unfortunate
incident......Sgt.
Bishop was celebrating
something or other today, but no one could find out just what. In any event he
wandered around the area
all afternoon in a stupor......Abbott and Costello in “Hit the Ice” was the
picture shown at the
movie tonight......
11th
Mission Documents Ceva S, N RR
Br
Eleven B-25's of the
487th squadron took off at
railroad bridge. Some of
the boys claimed that it was so close to the French border that they were over
French territory. Their
pattern crossed the west approach and end of the target bridge, but it is
believed
that no spans were
knocked out. Enemy opposition was nil and all planes returned safely to the
base......One of our
little Italian K.P's has gone off the beam. It seems that he recently visited
his home
and met his brother
there who had been held by the Germans at
brother has been preying
on his mind ever since. Tomorrow he'll leave us to go back with his
folks......The first
party to leave for the rest camp in
Paradis and Cpl. Nasuto.
A trip to
voyage......Capt. Farley returned with the squadron album today after
having it okayed by the base
censor. The only thing
deleted was this simple sentence. “We are now in
base censor was quite
enthusiastic and said “it's the best thing of its kind that he's seen” - Again
the
487th takes the
honors......One bottle of P.B.S. beer was rationed to each
man this P.M. If the ration card
we recently received is
any indication, we should be getting many delightful beverages.......”Hit the
Ice” was repeated at the
movie tonight......
12th
Mission
There were two targets
for twelve planes of the 487th squadron this morning.
the primary and Chivari
the alternate. The first box laid down a compact pattern which crossed the
center of the primary
target scoring several direct hits. 2nd box bombed beyond and to the right of
alternate possibly
crossing the east approach of the bridge. Smoke screen was used quite
effectively at
the primary.
Approximately 10 F.W. 190's were observed in the vicinity of Porto Maggiore
which
attacked the last box in
the flight. Heavy, moderate but inaccurate flak of the barrage type was
encountered although it
only holed one plane......The little Italian K.P. that took leave of his senses
departed for home this
A.M.......Word got around today that S/Sgt. Snaper's commission has come
through. He's been working
on it for some months now and everyone was betting pro and con as to
whether he'd get it.
“Wilbur” is in
rampant that the
invasion of
which should mean
something......Thus far in the drive for paratroops, one fellow of this
squadron has
signed up. He isn't sure
whether he will be accepted as an application doesn't mean much......”Two
Sailors on Leave” with
Jimmy Durante was the feature picture tonight......
13th
First mission of twelve
ships attacked the
encountered flak all
along the route and became more intense and accurate as they reached the target
area, holing two ships.
2nd Lt. Gerolde was slightly wounded by flak. The north end of the bridge was
covered with bombs of
the first box and the second box covered the south end. Only three ships went
out in the second
mission to drop “window” and frags for the following formation which was to
again
bomb
piloted by Lts.
Lovinfosse and
over the mountains
enroute to
parachutes, flak suits
and even one pair of shoes were thrown out over enemy territory, but the ship
was
returned to the base for
a successful landing. 7E had the hydraulic system shot out over the target and
was also brought in for
a safe landing by Lts. Holmes and MacMillen......The day was so full of
missions that little
time was left for the customary monkey business. However, another bunch took
off
for
officer's town. The
so-called rest camp for EM is certainly nothing to write home about according
to
reliable sources......A
ration of three small bottles of beer was rationed to each man this afternoon –
mighty good......”Two
Sailors on Leave” was repeated at the movie tonight........
14th
Twelve bombers of the
487th squadron took off at
dropped their bombs in a
good patten with the first box crossing the norht end of the bridge and the
second box extending
across the middle in a loose pattern. Flak was evident, but inaccurate......Ten
enemy fighters attacked
other squadrons in the formation although none approached our
flight........Cpl.
Lozano is back from the
hospital for a limited duty only. He sustained a back injury a month or so ago
in the Armament
section......Sgts. Mottola, Mabe; Cpls. Abbott and Arthion are attached for
rations only
awaiting permanent
assignment to the squadron. Its encouraging to see new ground personnel coming
in even though the
rotation quota hasn't increased.......Donuts and coffee were served in the
mess-hall
this morning by “Peggy”.
While passing out the donuts she was auditioning one of the new cooks for a
vocal he offered to put
on in the now Red Cross EM's Club. That opened up last night serving donuts
and coffee with some
hill-billies providing the entertainment in the typical barn dance fashion.
We're
hoping that isn't going
to be an every night occurrence.....”Mark Twain” was the film enjoyed at the
movie tonight......
15th TOP
Mission Documents Ferrara
/ Villa Franca RR Brs
Our squadron
participated in two missions today. First flight of twelve planes took off at
were over the primary target
at
completely obscured the
objective. The formation proceeded to the alternate target, Villa Franca
railroad bridge and
dropped 48x1000 lb. bombs from 9200' with good results. First box started on
the
rail bridge and extended
across the road bridge with possible hits on both. Second box failed to find
the alternate target,
but bombed another road bridge. Pattern starting in the marshaling yards east
of
the target and extending
through the factory buildings Ack-ack was heavy, scant and inaccurate, one
ship was holed and Lt.
Frazier was injured slightly by flak. All planes returned safely to the
base......Second mission
of planes (12) took off at
The objective was
reached at
bombs crossed the bridge
at the north end. Two spans were observed down in the water on the north
end. Smoke pots were
again used, but ineffectively. Anti-aircraft fire was heavy, scant and
inaccurate.
All planes and crews
returned safely to the base without damage......Tender Roast Beef for dinner
today
and fresh meat stew for
supper was a welcome relief from our much too frequent C-ration
menus......Allied
advances on all fronts has everyone pepped up and wagers are being made as to
when
the end will come. Of
course it can't come too soon for any of us as we all feel like we've had
enough......”Mark Twain”
was repeated at the movie tonight......
16th
Stand-down was in effect
all day which really was a break for combat men who have been seeing more
of Ferraro railroad
bridge lately than they have of
and the boys are really
entitled to a day off after sweating out the flak and enemy fighters protecting
beach......A plane
returned from
most appealing edibles
were the lush looking red tomatoes which will probably be served tomorrow.
Boiled chicken was on
the menu for dinner this afternoon and the consensus of opinion is that it's a
mighty poor way of
preparing fresh chicken......Church Services of all denominations were held in
the
Red Cross Club, recently
completed for the purpose of entertaining the units in this vicinity. Thus far
no one has seen any of
the prescribed entertainment although donuts and coffee are served nightly with
a stray hill-billy or
two providing musical diversion. If and when the club gets some furniture, plus
a
little variety in the
way of food, the rustic cabin should be a pleasant place to spend an
evening......It
was announced today that
Sgt. “Greg” Moore will assume the duties of S-2 Section-chief, the position
made vacant by S/Sgt.
Snaper who will be commissioned a Second Lieutenant S-2 officer upon his
return from
Meriwether, has been
spending the last few days with Capt. Linthicum. Every one looks to Major
Meriwether for
optimistic rumors and he has never been known to disappoint anyone except for
his
predictions. His latest
is a possible decision for the European theater in two months which is good on
the ears, but we can't
forget that it was Major Meriwether who had us home by last Christmas
according to his
predictions. There isn't a soul in the squadron who doesn't think very highly
of Major
Meriwether and it's a
pleasure having his cheery face around the area again......It being Sunday
there
was no picture at the
group movie tonight......
17th
Mission Documents Alessandria
RR Br
Allessandria railroad
bridge was the target for six of our ships this morning. There was no flak to
hinder the formation
which scored three or four direct hits on the railroad bridge. Everyone, and
mostly combat crews were
well pleased with the results of this “milk run”......Mail has been coming in
quite sparingly lately
or at least for the last few days. Cpl. Grupp is the mail man while Nelson
nurses
a bum arm, but we can't
blame the situation on the personnel......The Enlisted Men's bar was closed
until further notice as
of today. It seems that no one wants the responsibility of handling the affairs
and
until such time as a
volunteer appears the bar will remain closed.......F/O Sparling was
commissioned a
Second Lieutenant and
Second Lieutenant Martin donned the silver today......The squadron baseball
team hasn't been doing
so well lately, thus far they've lost three games......What a disappointment
the
end of this war is going
to be if the original personnel of this squadron aren't sent home. Progress is
so
amazing in all sectors
that the end is in sight according to radio commentators and the boys are
already
planning on how they'll
spend their twenty-one day furlough. Its a cinch that a tour in the Pacific
wouldn't do much towards
the morale or efficiency of this Group after sweating out eighteen
months......”
18th
Poor weather over the
target caused a stand-down for the entire day although the sun was bright in
In so doing everyone
will get an opportunity to see the
very few will have the
pleasure unless the war lasts indefinightly......Group Special Service is
really
getting “on the ball”
and has provided us with a radio and badminton set – our first since being
overseas......Malaria
and the Enlisted Men's bar were the main topics of discussion at a squadron
meeting this evening. It
was decided that a new bar will be set-up in a yet to be constructed building
and a duty roster will
furnish bar-tenders. No doubt all of these plans will terminate before
completion
when a quick move to
Headquarters today. He
really got a break out of selling government property to civilians. A month or
so in the guardhouse a
transfer to A.T.C.......Capt. Farley, Lt. Klujsza, Sgts. Brooks, Egan and S.L.
Kelly return to God's
country this P.M.......”
19th
Crews were on a stand-by
all day until
railroad bridge at
Sassoulla in
center of the bridge
scoring several direct hits. Six enemy fighters, believed to be ME 109's
attacked
the rear boxes although
our flight was unmolested......Lt. Deneen left the squadron to attend flexible
gunnery school at
intention. We hope that
the war is over by the time Lt. Deneen's flexible gunnery course is
completed.......The Red
Cross Club held its grand opening tonight by staging a dance for all enlisted
men
of the Group. Nine Red
Cross girls, a colored band and coffee with cake were the main attractions.
Even Hildagarde joined
the happy gathering......Sgt. Fuiks came back from
three days in the famous
city. However, it isn't the city that attracts Sgt. Fuiks......Air Medals and
Clusters thereto are
being given out on the basis of five missions with fifty percent bombing
accuracy
now. If the system
remains in effect extra poundage will have to be allowed combat men returning
to
the States......”Four
Jills and a Jeep” showed at the Group movie tonight......
20th
Stand-down was in effect
until
from 9800'. The east end
of the bridge was hit at waters edge. Heavy, slight and inaccurate antiaircraft
fire was encountered,
but no damage was done to our planes. Two or three enemy fighters were
observed at the rear of
our formation, but did not attack. All planes and crews returned safely to the
base......T/Sgt, Edward
S. Johnston and Warren C. Wood who left the squadron almost three months
ago on a thirty day
furlough returned last night to rejoin the outfit. They brought back many
interesting
tales from the
home-front and only tended to make the unfortunate who could not obtain a
furlough,
more home sick......The
squadron was electrified this evening by a radio news flash stating that an
attempted assassination
was made upon Adolph Hitler. It was the subject of much discussion, but
unfortunately no details
were available – only the fact that someone “screwed” up and they missed the
target......”Four Jills
and a Jeep” was repeated at the movies tonight......
21st
Crews remained on a
stand-by all morning and until late afternoon when a stand-down was declared.
Those that hadn't taken
off before, departed for the beach immediately. God only knows what combat
crews would do without
the sandy shores of
today, but they ran into
difficulty and were forced to land at
tomorrow......Lack of
mail for the past week is a pretty good sign that another landing will take
place
very shortly. It's
sometimes a question as to which is more important, mail or more
landings......A new
Enlisted Mens bar is
being erected by Sgt. Bornstein and “volunteer” helpers. It's supposed to be
ready
for use in the next few
days......No more passes to
as too many of the boys
are returning from the city with a “dose.” If nothing else can be said for
Neapolitan women “they
always leave the lover with a remembrance”......
22nd TOP
The first mission out
today was a weather reconnaissance flight of one plane to the Ronco Scrivia
area.
Then at
were observed on the
bridge although due to height of formation, it was impossible to plot the
entire
pattern. Flack was
inaccurate, causing no opposition to the formation......The Cairo boys returned
this
afternoon following a
good time, but a very hectic return trip. Several remained at
ship that was forced
down.
merchandise each brought
back, much money was spent. Perfume and jewelry seem to be the main
items although some of the
boys even brought back pillows. Lt. Eustis returned with the crew after
spending several months
at a school for bombardiers in
session......Four combat
men left for a rest in
crew took off for the
even know we're still in
combat......”In Old Oklahoma” was repeated at the movies tonight......
23rd
Mission Documents Chiavasso
W RR Br
Stand-down for the
entire day was declared last night. Naturally the squadron area looked like “no
mans
land” with everybody
either in their sack or at the beach......Cpl. Malcolm White had a regular
beach
party with a friend from
one of the other squadrons. They had cocktails, sandwiches, hard boiled eggs
and beer. Where all
these goodies came from is still a question although Malcolm claims that his
friend
flattered the mess-hall
personnel into preparing the feast......Three cans of delicious beer were
rationed
to each man yesterday.
Candy and cigarettes were distributed today in quantity. Some say it's the
fattening for the kill
because things were never like this before......The regular Sunday Services
were
held at the Red Cross
Enlisted Mens Club. Chaplain Cooper holds forth in the morning and a Catholic
Priest from the 35th
from
good deal if everyone
gets a chance to take advantage of the accommodations......No Movie
tonight......
24th
Early morning mission
today. Six planes took off at
bridge. Their bomb
pattern covered the eastern part of the bridge, but it remained standing in
spite of
the bombing. Several
bursts of ack-ack were observed in the target vicinity although no damage was
done to any of the
participating aircraft......Lt. Mako has any amount of money that says the war
will be
over within two months.
T/Sgt. Garbet is betting on the next thousand hours. To date no one has been
very anxious to take or
give the boys any money – even conservative gamblers are steering clear of war
bets......Convoys are
going down the road in great numbers today which indicates the invasion of
the States yesterday via
12th Air Force Depot......”Nine Girls” was the appealing picture at the movie
tonight......
25th
Six ships took off at
landed in the dust of
previous bombings, crossing the road south and extending across the western
half
of the railroad bridge.
Enemy opposition was nil and all planes returned safely. Later in the day, at
of this flight landed
short in the river bed. Flak was met enroute to the target, but no planes were
holed......This has been
our first two mission day in quite sometime although from the results of the
second raid we might
just as well have stood-down......The committee for the enlisted mens bar was
bust cutting up tickets
to be used for drinks when the new night spot opens. Apparently there has been
too much questioning of
the funds and high prices. The bar should open within the next few days in its
new location......Its
fascinating to watch the endless stream of convoys going up the road toward
Personnel are wearing
battle dress which indicates action soon unless they're fooling......”Nine
Girls”
was repeated at the
movie last night......
26th
Twelve planes of the
487th squadron took off at
formation reached the
target at
pattern started short of
the target, but covered west part of bridge. The lead ship in the second box
received a burst of
ack-ack on coming into the primary target and it damaged the bomb-sight and the
formation held its bombs
and proceeded to the alternate, a railroad bridge at PP L-994770, where they
released their bombs
very successfully from 10800'. Pattern covered the west approach of the
railroad
bridge. Ack-ack was
heavy, intense and accurate over both targets, holing five of our
planes......Another
periodic rifle inspection was held this afternoon and rifle belts were
exchanged for
pistol belts which are
much more appropriate for carrying Carbine ammunition. Gas masks were also
inspected and eye
shields were distributed to everyone......T/Sgt. Liphardt is wondering just how
he can
get the engagement ring
which he recently purchased for that
miss before he gets home
himself. Says he knows she would like to show it around before he gets
home to take over the
situation......”Moon Over Vermont” was the picture shown at the Group movie
tonight......
27th
Stand-down all day for
the 487th. Naturally on such a day the squadron was well represented at the
beach. However, the beach
looked more like
came in from the 57th
Wing around
preparation for an enemy
landing on the island. No one seems to concur on the reason as the stories
vary. One is that many
troops and invasion vessels were forming off the coast of
was our own forces
observed causing the hysteria. At any rate a meeting was held in front of the
Orderly Room and
everyone was assigned to a duty or platoon in case of the attack. The majority
got a
big kick out of the
whole thing, but nevertheless carried the designated equipment. Guards on the
line
were posted at fifty
yards intervals with a phone at each post and an observer was appointed in the
squadron area. By
nightfall things were pretty calm and the rumor was spread that a few troops
landed
on the west coast of the
baseball team played
Wing tonight in the first game of the series - 340th Gp. 14, Wing 4......In
other
words an exciting day
was spent by all......”Hers to Hold” starring Deana Durbin was shown at the
Group movie
tonight......
28th
Crews were up early this
morning for an
until
has lessened to a great
extent and guns are only to be carried after 1900 hours. Capt. Linthicum
thought he was parachutist
landing up in the hills although none of the supposed warriors have made an
appearance at the 340th
as yet......More packages came in today much to the delight of the addressees.
Nelson is away again and
it seems that every time he goes away the squadron is deluged with mail.
Perhaps Nelson should
take off more often. Red Cross Club had a little show tonight featuring a three
act play starring
“Peggy” who was supported by an able cast including our own T/Sgt. Powers. A
very
good band provided the
back ground a several colored boys offered excellent specialties. The show
was really a success
judging from the audience attendance and following comments......Details have
been busy for the last week
getting the new squadron Enlisted Men’s bar ready for the grand opening
which is scheduled for
tomorrow night......”Yours to Hold” was shown at the movie tonight......
29th
Another early morning
alert which resulted in a stand-by until
for the remainder of the
day. Weather looked bad and it rained a little in the afternoon, but the poor
weather lasted only a
few minutes and we had a perfect beach day. Again everyone took advantage of
the stand-down at the
beach......The squadron Enlisted Men’s bar opened tonight with a refreshing
preview of local talent
– music to please hills people as well as urban habitués. Italian liquor and
spam
sandwiches flowed freely
and the surprise of the evening was a bottle of good American beer to each
man – ice cold and on
the house at that. Noise and singing coming from within gave proof that a grand
time was enjoyed by all
the first nighters......Capt. Birmingham looks like a war casualty, but its a
recurrences of the
boils......S/Sgt. Wilbur Snaper was discharged from the Army today and is now
Second Lieutenant
Snaper. The difference in status doesn't mean much in the squadron although
he'll
fare better where ever
he goes from now on......”Hers to Hold” was repeated at the movie tonight......
30th
Mission
Stand-by was in effect
until
bridge. Due to a
malfunctioning bomb-sight the first box failed to drop their bombs, but the
second
box started their
pattern short which extended across the target. It is believed that two spans
were
knocked out as a result
of this flight's bombing efficiency. Two crew members were wounded and six
planes were holed by the
intense flak encountered over the target......Many of the boys in the squadron
were nursing terrific
hangovers resulting from last night's grand opening. Italian liquor is rougher
the
morning after than it is
going down, if that's possible. The club is more attractive than anyone
imagined it could be
with so little in the decorative line to work with. Chairs are made of old bomb
cases, the bar is of
rustic nature with a parachute draped above it and the walls are covered with
gunny
sacks dyed in various colors
of the rainbow. American liquor bottles filled with tea adorn the back of
the bar to add
atmosphere......1st Lt. Oviatt, 2nd Lts. Rambo, Cuthbertson; Cpls. Carlson and
Lee are new
combat crew members
recently assigned to the squadron. Cpl. Fleming, Pfcs. Chapman, Andrews,
Triano are latest ground
crew additions. It's rumored that they have been overseas for twenty-two
months which is
anything, but encouraging to those of us who thought we had a chance of
rotation after
eighteen
months......”Memphis Belle” played at the movie tonight which broke a precedent
on Sunday
Nights......
31st
A stand-down was
declared early in the afternoon following a stand-by morning. Thank God the
weather in
offer......The invasion
scare seems to have dwindled although everyone is still to be armed after 1900
hours. Apparently it was
our own forces that the alarmists saw off the Corsican coast......French
vegetables being brought
back from
large fresh eggs were
served for breakfast this morning – so much better than the small African
variety......Soldier
voting data is taking up the main part of the bulletin board lately. No one is
terribly
interested in voting
which is rather amazing as the right to vote is one of our purposes in fighting
this
war. Capt. Bugbee is the
squadron voting officer......Mail has shown a remarkable increase lately
although it has just
been packages and old mail that should have come in sometime ago. Those who
expected an invasion
before the arrival of our mail were fooled. It's apparent that all the troops
rushing
up and down the road in
complete battle dress were merely on maneuvers. If the army is as successful
in bewildering the enemy
as it is in fooling the personnel it's a wonder the war wasn't over long
ago......Double feature
at the movie tonight --- a repeat of “Memphis Belle” plus “Old Acquaintance”
with Bette Davis......
Transcribed by Dan Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
August 1944
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
I. Losses in action
1. Wounded in action
over
1. Charles R.J. Klebes
2. Bernard (NMI) Albert
2. Personnel returned to
their organization
1. Edward P. Dombrowski
J. Personnel who have
distinguished themselves in action
1. Bernard (NMI) Albert
2. Bernard (NMI) Bloomberg
3. Thomas V. Casey
4. Paul G. Daston
5. Edward R. Deere
6. Edward Dombrowski
(twice)
7. Ernest L. Elsner
8. Joseph C. Farley
9. Charles L. Fritch
10. Harry D. George
11. Nelson E. Gibson
12. Martin A. Currentz
13. Ward W. Holmes
14. Charles A Jordan Jr.
15. Irvin L. Katherman
Jr.
16. Charles R. Klebes
Jr. (twice)
17. Casimir C. Klujsza
18. Silvain A.
Lovinfosse
19. Marion M. Lynch
20. Charles A.
Malissewski
21. John C. Miller
22. Verl J. Miller
23. William A. McLaughlin
24. Olan H. Parrish
25. Elmer E. Ryerson
26. Charles D. Woods
K. The following flying
personnel of this organization have been awarded the Air Medals and Clusters:
1. Russel G. Allstron
2. Bernard Albert
3. James J. Allen
4. Dominic Angelini
5. Billy Jo Barry
6. Eugene W. Bartley
7. Willard h. Baskervill
8. Gerald F. Becker
9. Walter T. Bielski
10. George G.
Birmingham, Jr.
11. Robert Bishop
12. Bernard Bloomberg
13. Joe L. Boaz
14. Wildore Bousquet
15. James R. Brooks
16. Eugene J. Broos Jr.
17. Oliver A. Buendel
18. Gordon E. Butterfield
19. Noble H. Byars
20. Edward P. Byerly Jr.
22. Robert F. Campo
23. Gerald W. Carstensen
24. Thomas V. Casey
25. Joseph M Cline, Jr.
26. Harry L. Cochran,
Jr.
27. Emmette W. Coleman
28. John H. Collemore,
Jr.
29. Charles M. Cook
30. William P. Crandell
31. Luke J. Crosby
32. Roland D. Curley
33. Paul G. Darton
34. Carroll
35. Paul V. Daneen, Jr.
36. Donald C. Dick
37. Charles F. Donavan
38. Thomas J. Doyle
39. George Dranchak
40. Quentin C. Ebert
41. John T. Edwards
42. Richard T. Egan, Jr.
43. Ernest L. Elsner
44. Edward Eustis
45. Stewart Farnham
46. Jack B. Faylor
47. Harold H. Frazier
48. Charles L. Fritch
49. Milton L. Gammage
50. James M. Garner
51. Carl Genian
52. Harry D. George
53. Raymond F Gerhardt
54. Steven Gerolde
55. Nelson E. Gibson
56. Edward G. Graham
57. Martin A Gurrentz
58. William D. Halo
59. David D. Handel
60. Charles L Harding
61. Floyd F. Hauser
62. Ivan W.
63. Kenneth H Hill
64. Robert L. Hill
65. Raymond G. Hobson
66. Joseph N. Hogarth
67. Ferrell L. Holley
68. James C. Holloman
69. Ward W. Holmes
70. Morton Holtzman
71. Herbert C. Hunt
72. Donovan W. Hurlbut
73. Harvey M. Hyland
74. Julius _ Inger
75. Romew J. Ingley
76. Edward S Johnston
77. Horace E. Jones
78. Charles A. Jorden Jr.
79. Warren S. Jordan
80. Walter Joseph
81. Walter F. Joyce Jr.
82. Paul Kaplan
83. James E. Kelly
84. Edwin A. Kenyon
85. George H. Killen
86. Fred C Kirby
87. Charles R. Klebes
Jr.
88. Jessie S Klein
89. Casimir C. Klujsza
Jr.
90. David Konigsberg
91. Harry J. Koster
92.
93. John R. Lange
94. Wilbur C Lantz
95. John E. Leatherwood
96. Joseph A LeBaron
97. Guy L Lewis
98. Ralph S. Lincks
99. James A. Littlefield
100. Dewayne E.
Longwedel
101. Silvain A.
Lovinfosse
102. Max J. Lucas
103. Robert E. MacMillen
104. John P. Mako
105. Charles A.
Maliszwski
106. Joseph A
Marchisella
107. Robert H. Martin
108. Ernest E. Mathurin
109. John C. Miller
110. John W. Miller
111. Verl J. Miller
112. George S. Moule
113. Henry J.A.
McClernon
114. William _ McGriffin
115. Harlan G. McLain
116. William A. McLaughlin
117. Walter F McT______
Jr
118. Harry H. Maru___wcz
119. George E. Obrovatz
120. Robert R. O'Bryant
121. Theodore R Olander
122. Edward F. O'Neill
123. Howard L. Owen
124. Klmo T. Padon
125. Jack E. Parks
126. Olan H. Parrish
127. Lewis F Parsons
128. Donald R. Pinkerton
129. Franklin H. Porter
130. Gerard M. Powers
131. Louis F. Raber
132. John N. Ramsey
133. John E. Rapp
134. John T. Raachetz
135. Fred A Rech
136. Jack V. Reimer
137. Frederick Risch
138. James A Robb
139. Leonard R. Robinson
140. James H. Rogers
141. Robert F. Ryerson
142.
143. Paul E. Sekeras
144. Joseph E. Semenek
145. Guiseppe Serangeli
146. Everard B. Sh__well
147. Eugene R. Simonson
148. George H. Smith
149. Walter J. Smith
150.George J. Sorbelle
151. Kenneth C. Sparling
152. Paul N. Spencer
153.Roy W Spurling
154. Wahlon C. Stalman
155. Constantine D.
Stephenson
156. Harold M. Sterling
157. Harvard F. Stewart
Jr.
158. William _ Suthers
159. Maurice E. Thompson
160. Angelo M. Triunfo
161.
162. Howard _ Van __ton
163. Arsene H. Vervacke
164. Joseph P. Whalon
165. Fleet C. Williams
166. James L. Williams
167. Warren C. Wood Jr.
168. Charles D. Woods
169.
170. Lewis S. Young
August 1st TOP
Six planes of the 487th
were over Canneto railroad bridge at
lb. bomb load was
dropped from 10,000' with extreme efficiency. Visual observations report the
bridge still standing
although hits were registered on the objective. Enemy opposition was nil and
all
planes returned safely
to the base......Pay call was the main event of the day. Voting cards were also
passed out in the pay
line for those who wish to vote. The number of men not casting a ballot is
amazing......Specialized
medals were distributed to qualified specialists. The medal is quite attractive
and very similar to the
riflemen's awards. Its presentation pleased many of the “medal happy” 487th
personnel......The Group
baseball team won their second game tonight held at the 57th Wing. Its
beginning to look as
though the 340th may have the theater champions in its midst. Seven men of the
487th Squadron are
playing with the team......The Group Dentist has again moved into our squadron
area. Purpose behind the
move is unknown unless because its closer to Group HQ......”Old
Acquaintance” was
repeated at the Group movie tonight.
2nd
The most encouraging and
pleasing news of the day was our first
raid on
our planes took off at
and demolition bomb load
fell short of the target and the Squadron scored a seventeen percent bombing
efficiency record for
the mission. Six planes were severely damaged as a result of the intense antiaircraft
fire. Many ships
returned to the base on one engine although no planes were lost.
favored by combat crew
members in spite of their former anxiety to raid the country......The Red Cross
is sponsoring a three
day tour of
every three days. No one
is very desirous of taking advantage of the opportunity as there doesn't seem
to be much to see on the
1st/Sgt. Parkins had
difficulty in locating men to take advantage of tomorrow's tour – imagine
G.I.'s
refusing a three day
pass regardless of where its to be spent......News is the sole topic of
conversation in
the Squadron lately and especially
the Russian front. There's no question about the fact that G.I.'s are
grateful to the Russians
for the rapidly advancing climax of this war. The large scale offensive now
raging in
coming. Battles for the
great cities of
now......”Lady in the
Dark” with Ginger Rogers played at the movies tonight......
3rd
In accordance with a
stand-down every fourth day, the 487th stood-down all day. With this stand-down
came the customary
helter-skelter of personnel going places – mostly to the beach. The squadron
area
looks like No Man's Land
not later than twenty minutes after the stand-down is declared......Last night
the local talent of the
Squadron put on a show at the Red Cross Club. Everyone seemed to enjoy the
vocals done by soloists
and the quartet – the ensemble provided the accompaniment. Sgt. Barnes while
performing a trick of
magic slipped and used the most common of army profanity in his repartee. It
wouldn't have been so
bad if ladies weren't present, but Sgt. Barnes was certainly embarrassed with
Emily not ten feet away.
However, Emily was very gracious about the whole thing and laughed it off.
Following the performance
the entertainers retired to the Squadron bar and proceeded to “tie one
on”......486th went out
after the target we missed yesterday and did considerable damage to the
railroad
bridge......It's
beginning to look as though we'll have to do a great deal of our own laundry
from now on
as the G.I. laundry will
only take it three times a month. No doubt there are too many troops on the
4th
Twelve crews were up at
the crack of dawn for early Group briefing and take off at
first box bombed a railroad
viaduct at pinpoint N-849132 in the vicinity of Nice. It is believed that hits
were registered at the
mouth of the tunnel. Second box dropped on target of opportunity at either
[____
____] or Tenoa [?].
Pattern was observed on tracks in marshaling yards. Other planes in the
formation
incurred considerable
damage as the result of flak although none of our ships were holed. The boys
chalked up their second
raid on
the Zone of the Interior
today – S/Sgt. Marasavich and Cpl. Doyle. Both boys have been in poor
health, but no one is
exactly in their prime after eighteen months of overseas service......Sgt.
Foster took
a bet at the club
tonight and ate a live grass-hopper for a two dollar drink book. The only
difficulty he
complained of was that
the insect was quite active and insisted on kicking his lips during the
mastication procedure –
Is Foster war-weary or just plain crazy......Pvt Coombes who took off to the
hills a couple of days
ago after being suspected of dishonesty has not been seen to date......”Rosie
the
Riveter” played at the
movie tonight......
5th
Stand-down all day and
the usual solitude of a
predominated. It's
utterly amazing the way combat crews scatter upon the declaration of a
stand-down
– ground personnel do a
pretty fair job of the disappearing act also......1st Lt. Kendall our Medical
officer who was only
temporarily attached is now assigned to the Squadron. Other members who have
been around for sometime
in an unassigned capacity although doing regular duty are: 1st Lts. Bass,
Love, Graber; 2nd Lts.
Jettthian[?] Rau, Halstead, Pennock; Sgts. Mottola, Cavanagh; Cpls. Reynolds,
Lehmkuhl and
Thornsberry......Lt. Dombrowski who was
believed lost since June 22 in a raid over
head although his hair
is growing back after being completely burned off. Naturally he's glad to be
back after spending over
a month in the mountains of occupied
as he's pretty thin, but
who wouldn't be after an ordeal such as he's experienced. Being captured by the
Germans and making a get
away is no picinic. No doubt Lt. Dombrowski will be leaving for home in
the very near
future......”Rosie the Riveter” was repeated at the movie tonight......
6th
Up at
bridge in
with several direct hits
observed. No enemy opposition was encountered and all planes returned
safely......Second
mission took off in the rain at
road bridge at S-518774.
Pattern of the first box covered the central portion of the railroad bridge and
the second box succeeded
in knocking out the west part of the road bridge. Four planes were holed as
a result of the intense
flak encountered in the target area. Lt. Klebes, lead bombardier of the second
box was hit in the head,
but continued with his duties releasing his bombs on the target, thus enabling
the entire formation to
complete a successful mission......Sgt. Barnes has taken over the duties of
Special Service
representative with a lot of new ideas. The boys started out by giving a show
at the 35th
Station Hospital tonight
– Barnes says “they need practice before putting on any future
performances”......A new
order came out awarding Air Medals and Clusters today which made a lot of
the boys happy and an
lot more of them angry. People can't realize that the entire Squadron couldn't
possibly be put on one
order – it takes all kinds of people as the saying goes......”A Guy Named Joe”
played at the movie
tonight. This is the second Sunday night we've had a movie......
7th
Eleven planes of the
487th and one from the 489th comprised the two boxes taking off at
bomb the Le Voultre bridge
at pinpoint N-933809 and N-968775. The first box crossed the bridge with
their pattern scoring
direct hits which completely destroyed the bridge. Second box had a compact
pattern starting short
of the center with direct hits on the bridge. The complete southern section of
this
bridge was knocked out
as a result of the bombing. Other squadrons in the formation were severely
shelled by anti-aircraft
fire although none reached our flight......T/Sgt. Pavel was assigned to the
Squadron today......The mail
situation has been quite poor lately – everyone is complaining of missing
letters. It's the
inconsistency that confuses ones correspondence......M/Sgt. Gene Metz, who took
M/Sgt. Lynch's job as
line chief after the latter was rotated, is really getting the boys on the
ball.
Anyone found sitting
around the Engineering office or waiting in line for a haircut is detailed to
pick up
rocks in the revetments
and throughout the area. From all appearances the boys aren't going to like
their new line
chief......Special Service is trying to organize a Squadron Band although they
have been
unable to locate
instruments – perhaps the Red Cross will come through with the brass......”A
Guy
Named Joe: was repeated
at the movie tonight......
8th TOP
In accordance with the
every fourth day stand-down this Squadron stood down all day. the usual
inactivity that goes
with a stand-down was obvious. A cloudy afternoon kept many away from the
beach and as a result
the sacks got a good workout......New censorship rules allowing pictures of a
B-25
to go through have
brought forth a deluge of outgoing mail lately. Everyone is sending their much
treasured formation
shots to the home front for the admiring eyes of the family......The torn off
wing of
an airplane now rests
beneath the operation trailer inscribed with the following: “For meritorious
achievement while
taxi-ing down the taxi strip of Alesan Airfield.” Lt. Sernageli has certainly taken a
beating over the
mishap......Some of the boys went down to see Joe Lewis at Ghisonaccia tonight.
Apparently he has been
touring the island as he appeared at the 57th Fighter Group several days
ago......Capt. Coyle
held a meeting of all engineering personnel today to tell them what an
important
part they will play in
the coming invasion of
within the next few
days. Those dawn patrol missions aren't being made for the fun of it so if
that's any
indication we can
anticipate the big show any day......”A Guy Named Joe” played at the Group
movie
for the third time
tonight.
9th
Mission Documents Ventimiglia
W RR Br (France)
Take off for six of our
planes was at
[actually in
percent hits. The bomb
pattern hit west approach and west end of target bridge.....Lt. Cochran gave
the
Squadron area a thorough
buzz job this afternoon with a P-47. By this time we're so used to buzz jobs
that unless the plane
takes off the top of a tree it's not exciting......Blood tests are being
[given] to all
personnel who desire one
but rumor has it that it will be required of everyone shortly. Too many cases
of V.D. are showing up
throughout the Squadron......The recently chosen cadre [sic] has been alerted
and is prepared to
leave......No one is quite sure of who or how many are going but there should
be at
least twenty from each
squadron. Rumor has it that they will return to the States for the training
period......The show was
called off tonight due to inclement weather......
10th
Continuous rain last
night and this morning left everyone in pretty sad shape. Many of the tents
didn't
prove to be the trusty
little homes we all thought them to be. The mail that was completely washed
away by the deluge and
the Special Service tent would remind one of a laundry bag. Personnel then
took quite a beating
while many of the occupants moved from one corner to the other in an attempt to
avoid the leaks.
However, as the rain continued everyone settled down to sleep regardless of the
puddles
that has settled in
their sacks. Judging from the blankets and clothing hung out to dry this
morning
there weren't many who
missed the discomfort. This was our first real rain since enduring the storms
of Sunny
afternoon just as crews
were getting on trucks for a two-thirty P.M. Group briefing......Fifteen bags
of
packages and papers came
in late this evening to the delight of all recipients. Now all we need is our
last months first class
mail......Food has been getting worse everyday. In other words we are having
plenty of C-rations. The
Quartermaster maintains that until the Southern invasion comes off we can
expect no improvement.
If for nothing else than the mail and the food we are hoping for a quick
decision......American
troops are moving so fast in
The Italian campaign is
at another standstill and the Russians are massing for a new offensive which
all
together indicates
nothing, but most of the boys still expect to be home for Christmas......”Gas
Light”
was the picture shown at
the movies tonight......
11th
Mission
Rain again last night
sort of dimmed the possibility of a mission today although it had cleared
sufficiently by
coast of
scoring probable hits in
or near gun positions. Enemy opposition was nil although small arms fire was
observed on strafing
fighters from a nearby radar station......The newly formed cadre [sic]
consisting
of fifteen men from this
squadron prepared fro departure tomorrow by turning in all their equipment.
Within the last few days
they have been given dental checks and a rush job was done to restore missing
ivories. Cagney had the
three front teeth lost in a dive for the slit trench on that fatal night,
replaced
and also put in a claim
for the Purple Heart. naturally they are all in the best of spirits, but who
wouldn't be if they were
leaving for home......A guard has been posted in the area in an attempt to
catch
the culprit who has been
disappearing with cigarettes and mess-hall supplies. Several days ago a box
of fresh ham was stolen
followed in a day or two by a carton of cigarettes. Both would demand a fine
price in
victorious 41st
Engineers. Score was six to three......”Fired Husband” with Diana Barrymore
played at
the Group movie tonight.
12th
Early briefing and
with possible hits on
gun positions. The formation encountered no opposition and all ships returned
safely to the base......The
cadre [sic] that that was supposed to pull out today had to postpone it
another day on account
of transportation shortage......Three cans of beer were rationed to each man
this
afternoon which needless
to say relieved the monotony of an otherwise ordinary day......War news
hasn't changed much in
the last day or so.
threaten
located a 487th Rest
Camp in
semi-finals playoff
tonight – score 2 to 1 with the 41st Engineers on the losing end of the hotly
contested
game......”Ladies
Courageous” played at the Group movie tonight......
13th
Lead crews were briefed
at 06:330 A.M., but the twelve ships didn't takeoff until
patterns covered the
target area thoroughly which was again gun positions at pinpoint T-671058 near
La
Ciotat. Anti-aircraft
fire was encountered, but its inaccuracy afforded no opposition and all planes
returned safely to the
base......P.X. supplies were received today in pretty fail quantity. Veterans
of the
desert are rather amused
when new lads complain of the snide [?] rations. The older boys well
remember the day when
one stick of chewing gum per week was a real treat and a roll of Necco wafers
were tops......Everyone
is still looking forward to the invasion of
strategists are deciding
on what beaches the great offensive will begin. Much money has already been
lost and more is still
pending concerning the big day......The cadre was up early this morning and
left
before the day really
began. Rumor has it that two more cadres will be pulled from this Group in the
very near
future......1st/Sgt. Parkins held a Squadron meeting tonight in order to give
warning to the thief
who has relieved us of
one box of hams, sixty cartons o f cigarettes and liquor from the I.M. Club. A
nightly guard is now
posted in the area and further security will be added as necessary. A warning
to
clean up the tents was
also issued......”Ladies Courageous” was repeated at the movie tonight.
14th
Twelve ships of the
487th took off again this morning to bomb gun positions at pinpoint S-205512
near
St. Raphael in
escaped enemy
anti-aircraft fire......A ship left for
musical instruments
purchased by the Enlisted Men's Club for the purpose of organizing a Squadron
band. The piano is
costing close to four hundred dollars......Sgt. Barnes conducted a bingo game
in the
Club last night. Many
excellent prises were given which included souvenirs of
over with a bank and
will be repeated as soon a more prises are procured......Tonight was on of the
most
eventful the Squadron
has ever had. Immediately after supper is was announced that the invasion of
invasion beaches and
from
Operations C.O. was
really sweating it out as he will be responsible for getting the men up at the
proper
time. Combat crews were
given the dope at a Group meeting tonight. Everyone is tense in anticipation
of the coming
event......Our baseball team played their second losing game to the 41st
Engineers tonight
with a score of 14 to 8.
It is the best three out of five and thus far the Engineers have won two games
to our one......There
will be no movies at the 340th Group until further notice.
15th TOP
A big day for the 487th
Squadron and the 340th Group in particular. The
Group celebrated its 500th
combat mission with our
own squadron leading the Group formation of seventy-two planes in a flight
to prepare the way for the
great Allied landing in
all combat crew members
were out of their sacks at
planes took off at
formation reached their
objective at
dropped. The second
formation in which twelve of our planes participated took off at
bomb the beach at
Antheor. The flight reached the target area at
from 7300'. The first
box pattern started short of beach in central portion of target and extended
across
railroad tracks well
inland to the top of a large hill. Beach believed to be well covered. 2nd box
pattern
due to cloud coverage in
target area was not observed, but some crew members believed pattern hit
probably 1500' south of
target area along beach while others thought pattern may have hit
approximately 3000'
north of target area along the beach. No ack-ack or other enemy opposition was
encountered bringing all
our ships and crews safely home. Second mission of the day took off at
hours in which twelve of
our planes participated. The flight was over the designated area, a road bridge
at
bridge crossed the
tracks 1000' north of the bridge. 2nd box on S.[?] bridge crossed the bridge
just to
the north of center.
Ack-ack this time was heavy, intense and accurate, holing five or our ships.
However, all planes and
crews returned safely to the base......The boys in
vacation out of the
invasion as it was impossible to send a ship over to pick them up – however,
they
didn't mind enjoying
another day in the
reached the squadron and
is now safely ensconced in the Enlisted Men’s Club. It's not too large and
should be comparatively
easy to move, if we do – for $400 it should get good care and careful
consideration......Group
A.L.O. officer made his first appearance in the squadron tonight after a long
time. He had plenty of
news for the boys which when summed up means - “It shouldn't be too long
now”......Another night
without a movie due to a malfunctioning projector......
16th
Mission
Another early morning
mission with combat crews arising at
However, it wasn't until
load from 9000' to 9300'
with a fair degree of success. The first box bombed across the bridge with
two direct hits east of
the center of the bridge. The second box bombed across the west side and west
approach to the bridge
with black smoke observed on the target as a result. No ack-ack or other enemy
opposition was
encountered thus chalking up another “milk-run” in the French
campaign......News
reports of the landing
in southern
the States by Christmas
1944 – here's hoping......Sgt. George L. Von Berg was assigned and joined to
the squadron as of this
date and at present is working in Group Headquarters on detached
service......Fried
chicken for dinner today was really a treat, only complaint being there wasn't
enough
for everyone – late
arrivals got cold spam as usual......340th Group baseball team of which many
members came from the
487th played the fourth game of a five game series with the 41st Engineers in
the semi-finals for the
championship of the
series stands even -
41st won 2 and 340th Group2......Group Special Services acquired a new
projector
and resumed the nightly
movie with “His [should be “Her”] Primitive Man” starring Walter Catlett and
Edward E. Morton....
17th
Stand-down was in effect
until
boarded trucks and
proceeded to Group operations for briefing, but a thunder shower canceled the
raid
and a stand-down was
declared for the rest of the day......Fresh hot dogs garnished with hot mustard
were served for dinner
today and believe it or not each man got THREE. Even with exceptional
generosity there were
some left over to serve at the supper meal. Things really are getting better –
excepting of course the
mail situation which has been very poor lately. Everyone is of the opinion that
the invasion had
something to do with deliveries – no doubt it did, but now that the worst is
over we
should be literally
swamped with letters......Rain prevented any activities this afternoon and the
squadron area was
deserted with everyone or most everyone in his sack – all except “Greg” Moore
who
took advantage of the
situation and pecked out a couple of numbers on the new piano in the “Nut
Club”......”His [Her]
Primitive Man” was repeated at the movie tonight......
18th
Another early morning
mission with eleven of our planes taking off at
bridge in
dense cloud cover
formation encountered enroute and all planes returned to the base, bomb load
intact.
A stand-down then went
into effect until
takeoff for the second
day in succession. In spite of the fact that our planes are grounded the news
continues to be very
good and the latest landing is progressing much more rapidly than was expected
–
maybe it's true that we
will hit the home shores by Christmas '44......Two mail calls in one day is
something we've
anticipated for a long time. Even though most of the letters were old and long
overdue they were
received like manna from heaven......A G.I. show put on by the personnel of the
310th and 321st Groups
replaced a picture at our open air theater tonight. Some very clever skits and
dancing was well
received by a large audience......
19th
Twelve crews were
alerted this morning at
obscured by clouds and
returned to the base with their bomb load intact. A stand-down was then
declared until
the same target as their
goal. The formation reached the target at
lb. bomb load from 9000'
with very good results. the first box had a long pattern extending across and
covering the central portion
of bridge. Second box pattern covered north portion of bridge as fr a th
enorth shoreline of the
bridge. Heavy, moderate but inaccurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered over
the target, but no
damage was caused to our formation – all planes and crews returned safely to
the
base......Another
substantial amount of mail came in today, making the boys very happy......Fried
chicken for dinner again
today which gives vent to the slogan “something’s going to happen, we never
had it so good”......”Hi
Good Looking” was the picture shown at the movies tonight......
20th
The squadron was at a
stand-down all day and as usual the beach was well covered with 487th
personnel. Heat and sun
were terrific and all bathers gained another shade on their already deep coat
of
tan......Cpl. Johnny
Pabis returned from hospital today following his thirty-day sojourn as a result
of his
double hernia operation.
Considering everything he looks pretty well although he claims that the
falling stomach
sensation is still present. Thirty days is remarkable progress for such an
operation......Fresh ham
for dinner added zest to the ordinary C-ration or stew diet which has been so
frequent of
late......Rations were distributed in double quantity tonight, the reason being
the anticipated
move by the Service
Group. If they move it's a cinch that we will follow shortly. In spite of
Alesan
being our longest
stop-over, a move will please the majority......The baseball team won the
tonight by beating the
41st Engineers for the third time with a score of 4 to 2 in our favor. The team
is now supposed to play
the
Squadron are going to
remain in
membership is happy
about the whole thing because if they had gone; details would have been
abundant......No movie
was shown tonight.....
21st
Mission Documents Parma W
RR Br
Crews were up at the crack
of dawn this morning for early briefing and
was the
bridge approximately at
the center with direct hits observed. Enemy opposition was nil and all twelve
planes returned safely
to the base......News on all the Allied fronts is so encouraging that even high
ranking officials are
predicting a more rapid finale than any of us anticipate. If progress continues
to
be as rapid and decisive
as the fall of
resume “the home by
Christmas motto”......Bingo games went over with a bang again tonight at the
E.M.
Club. Prizes are nice
and really sought after. Big prizes call for more coupons and a lot of the boys
are
saving their coupons
from one bingo night to the other in order to cash in on the grand
awards......There
aren't many left in the
Squadron desirous of seeing
will be on the list
before too long......”
22nd TOP
A mission was called off
at the
Ground movements are so
rapid in
this point by a
B-25......congratulations are in order for Capt. Mugbee who became a Major
today......S/Sgt. Iwan
returned to the organization today after a thirty day deal in the States. He
enjoyed
the furlough immensely,
but was quite burned up at the excellent treatment being rendered the prisoners
of war at American
camps. Sgt. Iwan claims that its difficult to get not the P.X. at Patrick Henry
due to
the great quantity of
prisoners allowed the privileges of purchasing whatever and whenever they
desire.
That arrangement is
quite different from anything our boys have run into, but
known among Europeans as
a land of “suckers.” No wonder there are so many who would enjoy an
endless war......Rumors
concerning a move are numerous although no one has any official word to
substantiate either the
move or weird destinations......Group showers are still among the war
casualties
and if one is inclined
to bathe regularly he must either go down to the 306th shower, bathe at the
beach
or revert to the old
helmet days. Nothing is promised for our showers, but six non-operational days
should be ample time for
repairs......”
23rd
Mission Documents RR
Viaduct at N322163
Six planes of this
squadron took off at
due to cloud coverage
all ships returned with their bombs. At
planes took off to bomb
Avignon Southwest railroad bridge. Both boxes crossed the stacks and west
approach with their bomb
pattern. Scattered flak was inaccurate and all planes returned safely to the
base. 7T turned back two
minutes across the French coast due to an engine trouble, after jettisoning
their bombs in the
sea......A new bulletin board idea by Sgt. Barnes is getting considerable notice
the
last day or two. It's an
inquiring reporter column in which all squadron members will figure eventually.
The first question asked
on whether or not the soldier would like to feminine members of his family to
join the Armed Forces
was disapproved as several circulars have been distributed disapproving such
controversy. Naturally
the answer is always an emphatic “NO” and that apparently doesn't appeal to
the War
Department......Lts. Farnham, Edwards and “Jerry” Flynn are back from the
hospital after
ditching a plane several
days ago. Flynn isn't even an airman, but the jump didn't seem to affect him
anymore than the
others......Continentals and G.I.'s alike were happy to hear of the liberation
of
today. The famous French
Capital know to Europeans and Americans as the jewel of Continental cities
was taken by the F.F.I.
and was spared the ravages of military operation. It shouldn't be long until
Allied rest camps are
established in the gay city.
today. Progress is so
rapid that it's difficult to even realize the significance although we're sure
of one
thing and that is that
the war can't last much longer......”Presenting Lily Mars” with Judy Garland
was
the picture at the open
air theater tonight......
24th
A road bridge at
Beahoux[?],
morning. However, due to
cloud coverage all planes returned with their bombs. Ack-ack was
encountered enroute
although no damage was done. The second mission of the day was at
at which time six more
planes took off to bomb gun positions at a pinpoint target near Mar,
They might just as well
have brought back their bombs this time, because the pattern stretched across
the water north of the
target. Anti-aircraft fire was absent although three ME109's made an
appearance,
but failed to
attack......Contract bridge tournament was held tonight at the Enlisted Mens
Club and only
four entries remain to
battle out the championship. Barancwski [sp?] is the undisputed cribbage
champion of the squadron
after beating all competition last night......Preparation for the second
Anniversary day is now
under way and a complete days celebration is planned for tomorrow. Medal
presentations, ball
games, U.S.O. show and a party at both the Group Officers and Enlisted Men’s
Clubs......”Presenting
Lily Mars” was repeated at the movie tonight......
25th
Organization day for the
340th Bomb. Group which this day celebrated its second anniversary. The
celebration was as
festive as could be expected in
years fanfare in Comiso,
General Knapp.
Unfortunately General Cannon was unable to get here as was the original plan.
The
presentation was made a
little more colorful this time by the addition of a band. After the awards were
given out, General Knapp said that he had never seen as large a formation to be
decorated and was very
proud of the work done by
the 340th. At
and the 41st Engineers
was held – score 13 to 6 in our favor. U.S.O. troupers entertained the boys at
the
Group open air theater
at
party while the Officers
Club staged a dance. Our own bar set up free drinks all night and as a result
much noise making
predominated. A group stand-down was in effect and little if any work was done
throughout the day. From
all indications there will be less work done tomorrow because a big night
leaves on facing a horrible
dawn......In commemoration of the glad day a magazine containing a short
resume of the Group's
history and past stations was distributed to each member. Quite naturally no
one
is interested in seeing the
third such celebration in any theater of war, but all we can do is hope......
26th
Stand-down again today
which was perhaps the best thing that could happen because combat crews
were in no position to
fly and ground personnel would rather relax. Many big heads were prominent
throughout the Squadron
as a result of last nights orgy. Much complaining in regards to Italian liquor
always follows these big
occasions, but it just takes a very short time to recover sufficiently to
overindulge
again......Hitler's
particularly the 487th
membership. News or rumors are consumed with abandon.
and declaration of war
against the Nazi is the most encouraging bit and particularly so because other
Balkan States are
expected to follow in the footsteps of
with such swiftness that
it's difficult to plot the course of events although from all indications it's
quite
obvious that great victories
are being announced prematurely. Reports are so conflicting that it's
difficult to judge just
what the Allies have or haven't taken......Now that the 324th Service Squadron
has
left we ar anticipating
a move in the very near future – we hope to
provided the best meal
we've had in some time. Contrary to what we expected after the
landing, the food issue
continues to degrade. Unfortunately our taste for C-rations hasn't taken a
change for the better
and consequently everyone is eating lightly. Mail deliveries has shown no
marked
improvement
either......Olson & Johnson in “Crazy House” played at the movies
tonight......
27th
An early morning mission
was scheduled for this morning, but when crews arrived at Group briefing a
stand-down was declared.
However, at
west of
All planes returned
safely to the base......Cpl. B.R. Reuter was assigned and joined for duty as of
this
date. He was previously
relieved of assignment due to his lengthy confinement in the hospital......Cpl
on “Jason”......All
combat crew members are now restricted to the base in preparation for a new
drive
in
advised otherwise.
Pleasure seeking combat men were picked up at various Italian havens and
today......It was
announced today that
severed Nazi
connections. The bottom seems to be falling out of German controlled
takes
on the destination.
Guesses such as
packages and a small
amount of first class mail came in this afternoon......No movie at the 340th
tonight
although the 306th
entertained a number of the boys at their theater......
28th
Crews were up again for
another false alarm. Squadron alert was at
at Group briefing it was
announced that the target had been taken by ground forces. It's quite apparent
that if we don't move
shortly the Group will be know as the missionless 340th......According to the
postal authorities the
majority of troops overseas will spend another Christmas on foreign soil as
they
are urging that
Christmas packages be mailed early......Cpl. Nelson has introduced something
new in
the way of announcing
that mail has been received. Rather than giving the unpleasant “No” he has
made a clock-like sign
with a hand that points to either, Poco, Beaucoup, and most frequently to
“T.S.”
Naturally this
particular sign gets more attention than any other in the Squadron......A hot
rumor was
around today that one
Mitchell outfit will got to France, another home and the 340th will depart for
the
C.B.I. Theater. No one
knows where the rumor originated, but it's cinch that if it materializes “The
Best Dam Group There Is”
will be “The Best Dam Group There Was”......Coming back from the movie
tonight a 486th jeep,
tearing along the road at a break-neck speed, ran into a 488th pedestrian and
it is now
believed that the boy
will loose his leg, if he lives. Where in
such speed? It's about
time that something be done to enforce a speed limit along these
roads......”Romeo In
Burlesque” [Actually “Casanova in Burlesque”] with Joe E. Brown played at the
movie tonight. An excellent
G.I. swing band preceded the picture......
29th
taken our target and a
stand-by status was in effect for the remainder of the day. These missionless
days are beginning to
get quite tiresome as
result without a raid
the day seems endless......Since we got double beer and P.X. rations last week
there
was none to distribute
this week. However, none of the candy was saved and everyone is pretty hungry
for sweets about
now......Every night since the piano has been added to the attractions of the
Enlisted
Mens bar loud and not to
pleasant singing may be heard nightly throughout the area. The Orderly Room
clerks find it difficult
to get a good nights sleep under such conditions, but their continuous bitching
has
done nothing toward
rectifying the situation......Three cases of beer are to be raffled off
Saturday night in
order to procure the
funds for instruments and equipment to be used in organizing the Squadron Band.
Chances are being sold
at ten francs per copy......S/Sgts Floyd and Stephenson left for the States
after
completing their tour of
combat......”Casanova of Burlesque” was repeated at the movie tonight.....
30th
Stand-down all day. The
combat crews are beginning to get a little worried over their missions these
days as its been so long
since they have put in any time. If the situation continues they'll have to
complete their tour in the
Pacific. The Germans are running through
completely out of our
range very shortly unless we move on up into
doubtful whether they
will last long enough for our Groups to move in and become operational. The
great Cathedral city of
Reims fell today without a single shot being fired so it's pretty evident the
opposition is almost
negligible.
the
the Nazi can last with
the ever increasing pressure from all sides......Rumors of a transfer to the
C.B.I.
theater are still the
subject of most conversations although no actual data is available and everyone
hopes that it remains a
rumor......A huge General Order came through awarding almost two hundred air
medals and clusters to
personnel of this Squadron which has made most of the boys happy and
eliminated the constant
Air Medal bitching......The drive on malaria has intensified and it's become
practically impossible
to leave the mess-hall without your Atabrine......PFC “Ned” Burke since being
in
the photo lab, never
writes a letter without enclosing a picture or two. “Ned” is now known as the
most
photographed G.I. on the
type......”Canterbury
Ghost” was the thriller unreeled at the movie tonight......
31st
Twelve bombers of this
Squadron took off at
bridge at Cittadella in
approach. Heavy, intense
and accurate anti-aircraft fire harassed the formation, but holed only one
plane in the 487th
flight......Capt. Birmingham, Operations Officer made his Majority today and
Lt.
rapid lately leaving
very few of the combat personnel under T.G. Ground men are still without
ratings
that they think they
should have, but lack of encouragement leads them to believe that they'll go
home
in their present
grade......Lt. Mako who has assumed the task of mess-officer is taking his job
very
seriously and is trying
his best to produce some decent meals. The Quartermaster rations have been
very poor lately and Lt.
Mako is running all over the globe to pick up fresh foods......One of the boys
in
the Squadron received
word that ex 487th men Cliff Parsons and Paul Pitonyak are now happy civilians.
Some staff when we're
still sweating out Hitler with demobilization far removed from our thoughts,
although there weren't
many who don't intend to take a crack at horning in on the demobilization once
Transcribed by Dan
Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley
[Note: A page is missing
from our copy of the original. The page would have contained
'Losses in Action' and
the beginning of 'Distinguished themselves in action.']
Individuals who have
distinguished themselves in action:
Gerald F. Becker
Walter T. Bielski
Wildore Bosquet
Eugene J. Broos
Oliver A Buendel
Gordon E. Butterfield
Noble H. Byars
Edward L. Byerly
Fred P. Camp
Robert F. Campo
Robert W. Carlson
Gerald W. Carstensen
Thomas W. Cavanagh
Louis Cerbara
Harry L Cochran
Emmette W. Coleman
John H. Collamore
Charles M. Cook
William P. Crandell
David D. Cuthbertson
Donald C. Dick
James C. Dinkler
Charles F. Donovan
George Dranchak
Quentin C. Ebert
John T. Edwards
Ernest L. Elsner
Edward Eustis
Jack B. Faylor
Harold H. Frazier
Charles L. Fritch
James M. Garner
Carl Ganian
Justin F. Graber
William D. Hale
Nelson Halstead
David D. Handel
Kenneth H. Hill
Robert L. Hill
Ferrell L. Holley
James C. Holloman
Ward W. Holmes
Donovan W. Hurlbut
Harvey M. Hyland
Romeo J. Ingley
Emil F. Jettmar
Edward S. Johnston
Horace E. Jones
Charles E. Jones
Charles A. Jordan
Warren S. Jordan
Walter Joseph
James E. Kelley
Edwin A. Kenyon
George H. Killen
Fred C. Kirby
Charles R. Klebes
David Konigsberg
Henry J. Koster
John R. Lange
Wilbur C. Lantz
William A. Lee
Guy L. Lewis
James A. Littlefield
Eugene S. Love
Max J. Inkas
Paul H. Mabe
Robert E. MacMillan
John P. Mako
Malissewski
Joseph A. Marchisella
Robert H. Martin
John C. Miller
John W. Miller
Verl J. Miller
Rocco J. Mottola
George S. Moule
Henry J. A. McClernon
Harlan G. McLain
William A. McLaughlin
Walter F. McTernan, Jr.
Robert E. O'Bryant
Theodore R. Olander
Edward W. Oviatt
Howard L. Owen
Jack L. Parks Jr.
Olan B Parrish
Lewis F. Parsons
Carl A. Pennock
Franklin E. Porter
Gerard H. Powers
Louis F. Raber
James R. Rambo
John H. Ramsey
John C. Rau
Jack V. Reimer
Frank N. Reynolds
James A. Robb
James H. Rogers
Robert F. Rushton
Elmer E. Ryerson
Paul E. Sekeras
Joseph E. Semenak
Guiseppe Serangeli
Eugene P. Simonson
George H. Smith
Walter J. Smith
George J. Sorbello
Roy W. Spurlling
Mahlon C. Stahlman
William B. Suthers
maurice E. Thompson
Joseph F. Thornsberry
Angelo M. Triunfo
Howard A. Van Etten
Joseph P. Whalen
Fleet C. Williams
James L. Williams
Charles D. Woods
Lewis S. Young
Despite the original schedule
of twelve ships, only one flight of six took off at
Piave road bridge in
probable direct hits.
Opposition was negligent and all planes returned safely to the base......Allies
in
shouldn't be long before
we know if
last night although they
are only here in an attached capacity for the time being. It won't be long now
until a great many of
the combat personnel will be eligible for rotation so we can expect replacement
crews to be coming
regularly very shortly unless the war ends......A food scrounging trip took off
this
morning for
bar provides a great
deal of the mess fund – The showers opened up today after being out of order
for
two weeks. It's a welcome
relief because one can't take a decent bath in the ocean or streams and the
306th is quite a
journey......”Minstrel Man” with Benny Fields played at the movie tonight. The
picture
was produced by an
unknown who shall probably remain an unknown if “Minstrel Man” is an example
of future productions.
2nd
An early morning mission
was postponed until
railroad bridge at
K-500680 in
although the majority of
bombs landed beyond and to the right of the target bridge. Ack-ack fire was
out of range and all planes
returned to the base unharmed......The three cases of beer that were raffled
off tonight for the
purpose of buying musical instruments, went to Lt. Smith and T/Sgt. Graham.
Major
Bugbee pulled the
winning ticket out of the hat and when he found that it was an officer he
refused to
draw the next, so S/Sgt.
Faylor was called up and he pulled a gunner. Despite the fact that it looked
like a cooked up deal,
it was purely coincidental......In the last few days meals have improved
considerably and the
roast beef dinner we had today was delicious. Cpl Ben Harmon, cooks helper,
claims all the laurels
as he was acting first cook in the absence of same. More meals like that would
eliminate a lot of the
bitching......Six bottles of beer and two cokes per man was the beverage ration
distributed today. It is
probably two weeks rations, but good while it lasts......King Carroll, Group
prisoner who eats at our
mess-hall provided a lot of laughs when he unveiled his victory hair cut
consisting of a “V”
shaved above each ear and a halo effect in the rear......”Minstrel Man” was
repeated
to a very small crowd at
the movie tonight. Word got around that it stunk......
3rd
encountered no
opposition and all planes returned safely to the base......M/Sgt. Katherman,
Armament
Chief has been awarded
the Bronze Star for outstanding performance of duty throughout the Group's
existence in
combat......Lt. Bloomberg is back with the Squadron after a month's
recuperation in the
hospital, following a
serious flak wound......Lt. Billy Jo Barry returned from
are now members of the
Squadron after being attacked [attached?] for sometime......The victorious
Group base-ball team now
playing the
first so we're eagerly
awaiting the results of the final game......Today's P.X. rations provided
enough
candy to last for the
duration – 3 Oh Henry's, 2 Hershey bars and 4 tubes of M & M's......In
accord with
the general rule there
was no show tonight......
4th
Twelve ships of the
Squadron took off at
The formation was
without escort and none was needed as they encountered no enemy opposition.
After the bomb run the
bridge was believed to be still standing although hits were scored on the north
approach and center of
bridge......Just about everyone desirous of seeing
by now. Engineering is
accelerating their leave program and at the rate they have been going lately,
no
one will be
slighted......Lt. Mako was making everyone's mouth water today by parading
around the
area with two bottles of
Scotch he recently brought back from Malta.......A Cairo trip came up all of a
sudden today and before
many got a chance to bid for it, the order was in Group. Eleven boys will
leave early in the
morning......Tonight brought forth the news that a General will be in the area
tomorrow.
Naturally the usual
policing up detail followed the announcement......”Presenting Lily Mars” was
featured at the movie
tonight......
5th
The Sesto Calende
railroad bridge was the target for eighteen of our ships this morning. The huge
formation was over the
target shortly after
Direct hits were scored
on the bridge itself and both approaches were damaged. Enemy opposition was
non-existent and all
planes returned safely to the base......The Allies are now reported to have
entered
news is old by the time
it's announced.
terms – It's difficult
to ascertain exactly when hostilities cease because reports vary, but at least
we
know they have ceased.
The A.L.O. Officer spoke tonight at
although he was unable
to answer the most pressing question, “When will the war be
over?”......Another raffle
was announced today to procure money for the coming squadron party.
Scotch and beer are the
prizes.......The base-ball team returned early this evening. They have one more
game to play with the
from the money bet in
the Squadron, everyone else thinks it a sure thing......488th had their
activation
party tonight in the
area and as a result no movie was shown......
6th
Stand-down was in effect
all day. Intermittent showers persisted throughout the day and evening. It's
beginning to look as
though winter is on it's way with dark dismal evenings. Everyone is getting
pretty
edgy about spending the
winter in
even worse.....The newly
organized Squadron band has been rehearsing the last few days and it will be
sometime before they
sound like much of anything. In the first place they haven't got enough
instruments and secondly
the players are pretty green after not touching anything musical for quite
some time......Mail
service has taken a considerable drop recently and its been about three days
since
we've had a real mail
call. The mail alone would be one very good reason to move from the
north of
truth of the matter is
that we'll probably sweat out the war in
his time out on the line
since Capt. Young, Armament Officer, left for the States on an emergency
leave. It's rather
doubtful that Capt. Young will return to the theater of war.......For some
unknown
reason there was no
Group movie tonight......
7th
Another stand-down was
in effect today. Apparently it was due to climatic conditions as the entire
Group stood-down. The
sun came out this afternoon although clouds continued to threaten throughout
the day......Col. Chapman
inspected the entire area this afternoon, and according to present rumors he
wasn't satisfied with
its condition. No one knew what he was looking for, but apparently he didn't
find
it......At
team and the
Some say that we still
have the better team, but they're still the winners. It was quite a
disappointment
because we were confident
that the theater champions were in our midst.......Twenty ground
replacements of all
kinds came in late this evening. Being unable to accommodate them in personnel
tents they were
quartered in the parachute and Special Service tent. When replacements come
into this
Squadron they certainly
get a warm welcome because each one may mean another man on
rotation......One of the
new Red Cross girls served donuts in the mess-hall for supper tonight. S/Sgt.
Marchisella monopolized
her time with a lengthy conversation during the entire supper hours – he's
really in there
solid......”The Great Moment” with Joel McCrea played at the Group movie
tonight along
with a reel on the
Vesuvius episode. Everyone was thrilled to see a short on the 340th Group even
if it
did take the eruption of
Vesuvius to bring it about.
8th TOP
Again today the 487th
was non-operational. It was our turn to stand-down, but due to inclement
weather there was no mission
throughout the Group. It's beginning to look as though weather will be
responsible for a lot of
missionless days if we remain in
Some say we'll go back
to
demobilization plan has
been unveiled everyone has lost all hope of ever seeing the homeland. It's
quite obvious that only
those eligibles for demobilization are being considered. The common opinion
in this Squadron is that
it would be far better to make provisions for a furlough for overseas veterans
and worry about
demobilization after that is accomplished. Apparently the men with a good
combat
record will suffer the
entire war out rather than being rewarded for their efforts......Most of the
boys
who came in last night
are line men. One man who was given the job of second assistant to Bornstein
has been in the Army for
little more than two years, if that long, nineteen of which have been spent of
foreign soil......”Captive
Woman” played at the Group movie tonight......
9th
Mission Documents Santa
Lucia-Florence troops
At
north of
returned with their
bombs although the second box dropped with good results. Anti-aircraft fire was
accurate, although
moderate and only one ship was holed......T/Sgt. McClernon went down into the
bomb-bay and kicked out
a frag which was tangled in the wires. This act of heroism will get for him a
Soldiers Medal and
another point towards demobilization......The drawing for the party fund came
off
tonight. Lt. Robb won
the bottle of Scotch, S/Sgt. Brownlee two cases of beer and Sgt. Serio took
home
the quart of gin. No
doubt the winners were deluged with visitors through out the evening. “I never
won anything in my life”
was Bob Brownlee's reaction......News on the war fronts is good, but not as
sensational as it has
been in past weeks. Hostilities between
P.M. tonight and
yet......Good sources
say that the 340th will soon be in
Woman” with Susan
Hayward was repeated at the movies tonight......
10th
A
stand-down was
declared......For the last two days packages and papers have been coming in at
the pre-
Christmas rate. Every
G.I. likes to receive packages, but if packages came in he can always bitch
about
the lack of first class
mail. However, in spite of the bitching, many evening snacks will be enjoyed as
a
result of today's
package delivery......Capt. Coyle, former engineering officer, has taken Capt.
Bayless'
job as Squadron
Adjutant. Capt. Bayless left yesterday for an assignment in the States. He will
assume
duties on the
Cancellation Board to dispose of surplus war contracts. Capt. Bayless has been
with the
Squadron since its early
days in
the States today after completing
a tour of combat. S/Sgt. Rech came over as original ground personnel
in the Armament Section
and started to fly at
after a sojourn in the
States. he made 1st lieutenant during his absence and will assume the duties of
Assistant Operations
Officer......No movie at the 340th tonight, although “Old Acquaintance” played
at
the 324th Service
Squadron......
11th
Defense positions at
Q-720996 near
squadron this morning.
The formation was over the target at 10?00 hours dropping their bombs in the
center of the target
area. Opposition was nil and all planes returned safely to the base......Sgt.
Bornstein
who has been the
Squadron carpenter fro eighteen months is now on Group guard after
relinquishing
his job to his
ex-assistant and one of the very recent arrivals. They have been kept pretty
bust lately
building a platform for
the festivities to take place on activation day. Much work and planning has
gone into the
celebration so we're expecting a knock-down and drag-out affair......The
Squadron
orchestra rehearses
daily now and they're improving with practice. The band consists of ten pieces
including much brass,
strings and drums......Mail and packages were plentiful again today. Special
Services received some
much needed magazines and books.......Several of the boys have passed the
board in
which should take the
ordinary G.I. about five minutes......”Around the World” with Kay Kyser and the
gorgeous Georgia Carrol
played at the movie tonight.....
12th
Early briefing and
another railroad bridge
at
their pattern, scoring
several direct hits while the third box overshot. There was no opposition
encountered throughout
the entire route and all planes returned safely to base......Those who missed
“peter parade” last
night were inspected in front of the Orderly Room this evening......One of the
messhall
boys is being punished
for a misdemeanor committed while under the influence of liquor the other
night. Today's program
was a detail this morning and this afternoon was spent marching up and down in
front of the Orderly
Room with rifle and a musette bag full of rocks. For the time being his home is
a
pup-tent and even that's
too good for him......T/Sgt. Daston returned from the hospital today after a two
month confinement. He
limps slightly and has no color although he claims to be feeling tops. Sgt.
Daston was wounded by
flak sometime ago......T/Sgt. Ed. Johnston, S/Sgts. Iwan and Hogarth left for
but plans for the
September 15th celebration are going ahead so apparently the move isn't
immediate......”Around
the World” was repeated at the movie tonight......
13th
Twelve ships took off at
objective completely
covered by stratus cloud layers and proceeded to the alternate which was
Tortona
railroad bridge. The formation
was over the target at
accuracy directly on the
objective. The vital bridge was observed to be down after the devastating
attack. Other flights in
the formation were severely holed by flak, but the 487th escaped the barrage
and
all planes returned
undamaged......Ground forces are now fighting on the homeland of the super-men,
but no great advances
have been made since the battle of
Allied activity in that
sector and a likely guess would be that everything will remain rather dormant
until shortly before
November 7th. One good reason why elections should be done away with during
war time. Another
conference between Churchill and Roosevelt is now taking place in
Whatever is being
discussed remains a secret but its rumored that the topic is Pacific
strategy......Souvenir
books for the 2nd Anniversary were completed today and will be distributed at
the
celebration. Its a mimeographed
rehashing of the history with actual B-25 photos for the cover. No
doubt the book shall
provide good reading matter for the folks at home and for ourselves in the
future
when its all past
history......S/Sgts. Ebert, Faylor and Harding departed for the home-front this
morning......The man who
is being so severely punished spent the entire day policing the area spare
fifteen minutes for
meals......”Let's Dance” with Belita played to an appreciative audience at the
movie
tonight......
14th
Troop concentration and
ammunition dumps at
of the 487th Squadron
this morning. Flak was heavy, intense and accurate, but despite persistent
opposition the formation
succeeded in covering the entire target area with their well placed pattern.
One crew member was
slightly wounded by flak and eight of the bombers were holed, but all planes
returned safely to the
base. A late afternoon mission was called although when crews arrived for Group
briefing for some
unknown reason a stand-down was declared......Maj. Bugbee and Capt. Coyle are
the
joint owners of a
Dachshund puppy and Lt. Klebes owns the other one of a pair that are into
everything
around the squadron.
They are pedigreed dogs and it's really a treat to see a thoroughbred after the
many mongrels who have
attached themselves to the Squadron from time to time. The dogs were
purchased in
liberation of the great
city......Two crews have come into the squadron recently and judging from all
the
boys that are finishing
up many more will be necessary......Final preparations for the big celebration
were completed today and
everyone is looking forward to the fine menu if nothing else......”Let's
Dance” was repeated at
the movie tonight......
15th TOP
Activation Day – when a twelve
plane mission was called this morning it was thought that the day's
festivities were ruined,
however before the mission took off a stand-down was declared. The day of
days started out with
melon and fresh fried eggs for breakfast. Seconds were cheerfully handed out if
requested.
by early diners, but
hamburger was substituted when the steak ran out. Dinner was followed by a
baseball
game between officers
and enlisted men – enlisted men came out on the long end of a 12-6 score.
By the end of the game
the ship from
à la mode arrived and
beer, hamburgers and the ice cream were dished at Joe's Joint.” The beer was of
the Tunisian variety and
didn't go over too big, but it was wet. A line formed for the food and
refreshments that
characterizes any G.I. affair, but this one was sweated out with a smile. A
raffle plus
Bingo followed the
refreshments. Souvenirs of
Rice copped the first
raffle prize – an extra three day pass to
Mitchell Airs, 321st
orchestra arrived, but the finale was worth waiting for. Adding to the gaiety
of the
crowd was the strong
intoxicants served at the E.M. Club. It was a tired crew that hit the sack
tonight,
but nevertheless
appreciative of the effort put forth to make this party a
success......”Swinging the
Blues” was shown at the
movie tonight, but few 487th men attended the theater......
16th
Mission Documents Bologna
M/T (truck) Repair
Early alert this morning
for twelve ships and crews that took off at
repair shops at
the good visibility and
slight anti-aircraft fire to inflict a severe blow on the enemy. The first
pattern hit
a cluster of buildings
and highway just south of the target area and the second box hit center of
target
area covering many
buildings. Large columns of smoke were observed coming from the northwest
corner of the target
area immediately after our bombing. Crews were happy to have this target behind
them as they had anticipated
heavy flak although their worry was in vain as it was considered a perfect
“milk run”......many of
the boys were suffering ill effects from yesterday's party in the form of
G.I.'s. It
could have been any
number of things that caused the epidemic and not liquor because even
prohibitionists were
seen trotting to the latrine from time to time. Sufferers said it was worth the
discomfort though so all
is well......Major
the 488th has been
transferred to this Squadron as Operations Officer and Lt. Spencer has assumed
the
duties of assistant
operations officer. Major Birmingham's going home papers are awaiting him and
it's
thought that he's taking
one last fling with the Romans......Area and tent inspection scheduled for
today
has been postponed until
next Monday. Friday has been set aside as “bed airing day” which is an
entirely new wrinkle to
this organization......”Swinging the Blues” was repeated at the Group theater
tonight......
17th
Mission Documents Rimini W
Troop Concentrations
of
Ack-ack coming from west
of
forced landed at Fano.
One engine and gas tank was shot out which made it a pretty touchy landing
although no one was
wounded. Crew members of the downed ship were picked up immediately by
another plane and
brought back at which time they started a search for Capt. Kendall to tell him
“They
had it.” Two day s ago
the same crew made a crash landing......P.X. rations were distributed in
abundance today – only
catch is that its two weeks rations. Eight bottles of beer and two cokes
yesterday established a
beverage record for the 487th.......Church services were held as usual at the
Red
Cross Club. A new Catholic
Chaplain has replaced Chaplain Dougherty who was transferred to another
part of the
world......Major
shove off for the
States. Lt. George who went down June 22nd over
Squadron after coming
through the lines. He had a tough time, but has already been to
leave for home
shortly......Sunday, and consequently no movie.......
18th
Mission Documents Rimini Gun
and Troop Area
Sixteen bombers of this
Squadron took off at
planes were holed as a
result of the accurate flak encountered at the target area. Hydraulic system in
7Y was shot out, but
they succeeded in landing safely......
which should permit
everyone another three day pass in the city. At first it was doubtful that
everyone
would get there a first
time and now some of the boys are refusing a repeat. T/Sgt. Garbet who won the
extra three day pass to
to hold it open for a
pass to Paris......New crew members that came in the other night questioned
some of
the older boys as to
when they could draw linen, mattress and pillow. The American press must be
painting a lively
picture of combat life.......A new atabrine drive has been in effect for the
past week.
One must take an
Atabrine tablet before entering the mess-hall for supper and there is a G.I. at
the door
with a chart to see that
you do......”Three Men in White” showed at the Group movie tonight......
19th
Eighteen combat crews
were alerted early this morning for a mission, but due to heavy rains takeoff
was postponed until
declared for the rest of
the day.......Apparently the rainy season has begun in earnest as heavy rains
continued intermittently
all day and throughout the night......A number of the boys were all set for a
holiday in
best thing to do was hit
the “sack” and hope for better luck tomorrow......Our Italian K.P.'s, barber
and
tailor were scheduled to
leave us today, but they too were delayed another day. Inasmuch as they were
packed and ready to
leave they refused to do any favors for the boys who needed hair-cuts, clothes
pressed etc. and idled
away their time relaxing. A 12th AF order required the Group to get all Italian
workers off the
and much bitching will
result......Rain caused cancellation of the picture scheduled for tonight......
20th
Crews were up early this
morning for a raid, but the weather had closed in and take-off was impossible.
Consequently, a
stand-down was declared......It rained almost constantly throughout the day and
as a
result no planes left
the field. The
compliance with orders
all Italian civilian help was in readiness for their return to
were detained by the
weather. After much screaming farewells they were taken to the line only to
return and repeat the
same performance tomorrow......Many of the boys found themselves rained out of
their happy homes this
morning, but after almost twenty months of fighting the elements it doesn't
phase them to any
extent. Some are attempting to water-proof their tents by putting in wood
floors.
The Squadron has
requisitioned enough wood for everyone, but as yet the order hasn't been
filled.
Trucks went up to
latrines almost burned
down our masterpiece today. However, S/Sgt. DeLorge and Cpl. Cissell proved
the worth of a fire
extinguisher and prevented a disaster......Climatic conditions prevented the
movie
from showing tonight
which will probably be a common occurrence from now on.......
21st
Combat crews were
alerted again early this morning, but for the third successive morning did not
take
off. The skies in this
vicinity were clear and the sun was shining, but weather over the target area
was
very bad and a
stand-down for the day was declared when the crews arrived at Group for
briefing......Now that
our civilian Italian K.P.'s have left, it has been decided that the officers
should
have their own mess-hall
(War is REALLY hell). After all these months of a combination affair that
seemed to work well,
someone throws a wrench in the works. Details were in evidence obtaining wood
for the proposed “Salon”
and a guard was detailed to protect the lumber during the dark hours......Now
that we are definightly
bedding down for the winter many distasteful details are in progress preparing
for
protection against the elements.
Many of the boys today worked laboriously acquiring the wherewithal
for a cement floor in
our own mess-hall. it is also rumored that the same thing will be installed in
the
personnel
tents......Many combat men were promoted today so also were two ground men.
Sgt. Hoff,
one of our hard working
crew chiefs climbed all the way to Technical Sergeant while Cpl. Donald m.
Kuhn made “buck.” Both
boys have been sweating it out for some time and just can't believe it really
happened. The Group
movie provided entertainment with a showing of “Gamblers Choice” staring
22nd TOP
At
designated area was
reached at
from 9500'. 8x1000 lb
bombs were brought back due to radio malfunction. First box had a compact
pattern across southwest
end of the bridge. Second box started at the road bridge with direct hits and
extended on to the
center of the railroad bridge, possibly scoring hits on it. The third box
started just
beyond the road bridge
and crossed the railroad bridge east of center. No ack-ack or other enemy
opposition was
encountered and all planes and crews returned safely to the
base......Installation of a
cement floor in the
mess-hall started in earnest today and progress is amazing – it shouldn't take
too
long to complete the
job......All line personnel who moved into a safer area after the enemies
attack on
May 13 are now making
preparations to move back on the line as it will be much more convenient
during the cold months to
come, to have your living quarters handy to your work......Fried chicken for
dinner today was a
welcome relief from c-rations......No mail again today making the sixth day in
succession that there
has been little or no mail. Are the troops on this
seems like
it......”Shine On Harvest Moon” was the picture shown at the movies
tonight......
23rd
Mission Documents Piazolla RR Br / Citadella Cruiser
Taranto (sank- LaSpezia)
Ten 487th ships took off
at
was
and to the right of
Cittadella. Anti-aircraft fire was nil and all planes returned safely to the
base......All
Jewish boys who went to
due to weather. They
returned to the Squadron last night, four days overdue......The weather has
also
turned out to be a break
for fellows on leave. It's been impossible to return and as a result everyone
has
overstayed their
passes......A new latrine is being dug and not any too soon as the oder is
sufficient to
be noticed on a person
two hours after leaving the throne room......Cpl. Runyon who has been in Supply
since the States has
transferred to Ordnance and Cpl. Guthrie has taken his place in Supply. Cpl.
Graffius is now in
Armament after two years in the Kitchen......Mail came in today in pretty good
quantity, but there is
still plenty somewhere between here and the home-front......”Shine on Harvest
Moon” was repeated at
the movie tonight.......
24th
Mission Documents Piazolla RR Br / Citadella
Cittadella by-pass was
again the target for our twelve ship formation this morning. However, all bombs
were returned to the
base due to complete overcast......Weather is very uncertain during this season
and
it's rather doubtful
that we shall get in many missions from now on. The A.L.C. officer spoke in the
Squadron tonight and
informed us of all the good progress, but also added that we had one more month
of decent weather and if
the war wasn't over then it would be a long winter. It's surprising how all the
big headlines had us
fooled into believing
too good, but it's all
to be seen......Sgt. Don Kuhn has taken S/Sgt. Jung's job of Section Chief in
Operations. It will be
interesting to see if he goes home because he can't make Tech......Sgt. Earl
Platz
who has been in the
mess-hall almost since it started has been made mess-sergeant. His predecessor,
S/Sgt. McMillen, is now
a combat gunner. The reason for all these boys going into combat is that it
looks like the only way
of getting home......Great progress is being made with the cement floor being
installed in the
mess-hall. The officers new project is also shaping up......The new latrine is
being
blown out with dynamite
and the occasional bomb gives us a feeling of actual war......No movie was
shown tonight, it being
Sunday......
25th
A mission was scheduled
early this morning, but at the specified time the status was changed to standby
followed very shortly by
a stand-down......Our super latrine was taken down today in order to erect
the new one, but someone
had walked away with the carpenter's tools and all work on the project was
ceased. One must now go
to the woods for his daily. However, tomorrow should find us with a new
and better
outhouse......Boys now washing officers dishes, that were formerly done by our
departed
Italian employees are
receiving fifteen dollars a month extra. After all these months they find it a
little
difficult to go back to
pot washing, but the fifteen dollars lends something to the situation......New
blankets were
distributed today allowing every man a total of five and it's quite evident
that more will
be required as the
winter progresses. It's rumored that there are no stoves available on the
will be interesting to
notice how problems will be handled. No doubt many make-shift arrangements
will make an appearance
in the near future......S/Sgt. Jung and Cpl. Reuter are our latest rotation
fortunates to depart
from the 487th......”Bermuda Mystery” was shown at the Group movie
tonight......
26th
Mission Documents Piazolla RR Br / Citadella
It wasn't until
and the other to again
hit Cittadella by-pass. Both boxes scored direct hits on their respective
objectives.
Anti-aircraft opposition was encountered although it was inaccurate and made no
hits on
the
formation.......Details are still going on in preparation for the bedding-down
procedure. The cement
floor in the mess-hall
is almost completed, but the new latrine is unfinished and rather slow in the
process. It will take
some time before the new carpenters are as adept at the art of latrine building
as
Sgt. Bornstein.
Incidentally Bornstein is still on Group guard after relinquishing his primary
duty as
Squadron carpenter......So
many of the combat boys are going home that it's almost impossible to keep
track of who is and who
isn't here. The medical board that decided the fate of combat crew members
has moved from
before departing for
God's country......Rumor has it that five percent rotation for this outfit will
go into
effect sometime between
the first of October and the fifteenth of November. It's about time, but God
help the poor lads that
will have to sweat out twenty months more of this life. Rumors of a rest camp
in
27th
The entire Group was on
stand-down all day due to the weather over the target area. Many crews spent
the day winterizing
their tents which has become quite a novelty of late. Some are putting cement
floors in and those
fortunate enough to get lumber have made good use of that while others are just
letting things go as
they are. It's surprising that lumber for the entire job can't be procured
because God
only knows that timber
is the only thing
forth it wouldn't be so
difficult.....”Al” Kosak and “Sam” Boor went over to
their portrait and
returned the same night. Many of the boys are having one made for use as
Christmas
gifts and the results
are excellent. Roman photographic artists are really talented, turning out
portraits
for three and four
dollars that would cost considerable money in the States if done by our finer
photographers......The
last touches are being made on our latrine and if the war doesn't last forever
it
should last for the
duration of our stay in
Italian front is showing
more progress these days since the penetration of the Gothic line. It's quite
apparent that the
Ziegfried line is going to live up to its reputation......”Desert Victory” was
shown at
the movie tonight for
about the tenth time since being overseas. However, it always goes over big
with
the veterans of the
desert.......
28th
Weather conditions kept
the planes on the ground again today, although the mission was not canceled
until
afternoon. If this
weather is any indication of whats in store for us during the winter months we
shall
be spending all of our
time putting up tents as the wind blows them down. In any case it's a cinch
that
the winter doesn't hold
much fascination in store for Corsican based units......Lt. Serangeli brought
back
four Sardinian laborers
to work on the officers mess, now under construction. If the present rate of
progress isn't speeded
up they too will be here for the winter. Lt. Mako claims that if the officers
would
go to work on the thing
in earnest it would be completed in no time......The mess-hall floor was
completed today and
should be back to normal within the next few days. Enlisted men have been
eating outside almost
entirely since the project began. It looks as though it was finished just about
in
the nick of
time......Rain started about
was no movie. This
situation will probably be repeated frequently from now on.
29th
This was obviously a
stand-down day. Rain and a gale like windstorm persisted, keeping everyone
either in the sack or
close to it. For those who have winterized their tents with floors and sides it
wasn't
so bad, but for the
others it was a very unforgettable day. Several tents including the top of the
Enlisted Men's Club came
down but they were rapidly repaired. Later in the afternoon the rain
subsided and everyone
went to work on their tents......Orchestra practice occupied part of the day –
the
band is beginning to
sound pretty good now and it shouldn't be long before they put on a
show......Some
of the officers decided
to borrow a little lumber from their mess-hall in order to fix up their tents.
This
idea didn't go over so
big with Major Parsons who issued an order that all lumber would be returned
immediately and that
officers would work on the Club until every board was nailed down.....Mail
seems to have ceased
coming altogether now – every other day or two about twenty-five letters come
in
which really isn't worth
the bother. For an Army who claims to be the most advanced in the world it's
more than disgusting.
Perhaps the situation could be overlooked if it weren't brought to our
attention in
magazines, ballyhooing
the great work that's being done along these lines......”
shown to a meager
audience at the movie tonight......
30th
Mission Documents Cittadella
RR Bypass
After yesterday with all
of its rain and misery, the sun was shining brightly this A.M. At
seventeen ships and
crews of this squadron took off to again bomb the Cittadella by-pass. No enemy
opposition hindered the
operations and results were gratifying. First and second boxes crossed the
center and west center
portion of target while the third box covered the east portion. Boys who are
sweating out their last
few missions are thankful for the good weather and milk run variety of
raids......Two cokes per
man were dispensed this afternoon. For the first time for weeks we received no
beer although that was
too good to last. Along with mail the
a rations are concerned
also......Lt. Deneen returned to the squadron today after several months in the
States at Flexible
returned from
bunch also went over
hoping for the same fate......Everyone was a little disappointed today as the
egg in
Transcribed by Dan
Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
October 1944
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
i. Losses in action
1. Robert H. Meek (killed Oct
19; others below were wounded)
2. Bernard Bloomberg
3. Wilbur C. Lantz
4. Howard L. Trudell
5. Charles F. Donovan
6. William E. McGriffin
7. George H. Smith
8. David D. Cuthbertson
9.
j. Personnel who have
distinguished themselves in action.
1. Alfred N. Bunn
2. Gordon E. Butterfield
3. Fred P. Camp
4. Joseph M Cline, Jr.
5. Harry L Chochran Jr.
6. Charles M. Cook
7. William P. Crandell
8. David D. Cuthbertson
9. Carroll
10. Charles F. Donovan
11. Harold H. Frazier
12. Fred C. Kirby
13. Charles R. Klebes,
Jr.
14. Wilbur C. Lantz
15. James A Littlefield
16. Joseph A
Marchisealla
17. Robert H. Martin
18. Henry J. McClernon
19. William E. McGriffin
20. Thomas A. Oliver
21. Howard L. Owen
22. Wallace Preswich
23.
24. George H. Smith
25. Walter J. Smith
26. Kenneth C. Sparling
27. Paul N. Spencer
28. William B. Suthers
29. Charles E. Tasker
30. Howard L. Trudell
31. James L. Williams
Personnel awarded Air
Medals and Clusters:
1. Bernard Albert
2. James J. Allen
3. Dominic Angelini
4. William N.
Baskerville
5. Wilbur R. Beadle
6. Gerald F. Becker
7. Walter T. Bielski
8. Robert Bishop
9. Bernard Bloomberg
10. Wildore Bosquet
11. Eugene J. Broos Jr.
12. Willard A. Bruce
13. Oliver A Buendel
14. Marion C. Burger
15. Gorden E.
Butterfield
16. Noble H. Byars
17. Edward L. Byerly Jr.
18. Fred P. Camp
19. Robert F Campo
20. Robert W. Carlson
21. Gerald W Carstensen
22. Thomas W Cavanaugh
23. Louis Carbara
24. Harry L Cochran Jr
25. Emmette W Coleman
26. John H Collamore Jr
27. Charles M Cook
28. William P Crandell
29. David D Culbertson
30. Carroll
31. Donald C Dick
32. James C Dinkler
33. Charles F. Donovan
34. George Dranchak
35. John T Edwards
36. Ernest L Elsner
37. Myron E Erickson
38. Edward Eustis
39. Richard F Evans
40. Edgar E Evants
41. Clifford E Fey
42. Alleson J Forrister
43. Harold H Frazier
44. James M Garner
45. Carl Genian
46. Justin F. Graber
47. Edward G Graham
48. William D Hale
49. Nelson Halstead
50. David D Handel
51. Raymond S Heckman Jr
52. Kenneth H Hill
53. Robert L Hill
54. Joseph N Hogarth
55. Ferrell L Holley
56. James C Holloman
57. Donovan
58. Romeo J Ingley
59. Emil F Jettmar
60. Edward S Johnston
61. Charles E Jones
62. Horace E Jones
63. Warren S Jordan
64. Walter Joseph
65. Walter F Joyce Jr
66. James E Kelley
67. Donald M Kenney
68. Edwin A Kenyon
69. George H Killen
70. Fred C Kerby
71. Charles R Klebes Jr
72. David Konigsberg
73. Henry J Koster
74.
75. John R Lange
76. Wilbur C Lantz
77. William A Lee Jr
78. Robert E Lehmkuhl
79. Guy L Lewis
80. Roger D Lewis
81. James A Littlefield
82. Eugene S Love
83. Silvain A Lovinfosse
84. Max J Lukas
85.
86. Robert E MacMillen
87. John P Mako
88. Chales A Maliszewski
89. Joseph A Marchisella
90. Robert R Martin
91. Marlan J Michal
92. John W Miller
93. Verl J Miller
94. George S Moule
95. Henry J A McClernon
96. Paul E McDonnell
97. William E McGriffin
98. Harlan G McLain
99. William A McLaughlin
100.Walter F McTernan
101.Walter V McVee
102. Theodore R Olander
103. Edward F O'Neill
104. Edward W Oviatt
105. Howard L Owen
106.
107. Olan B Parrish
108. Carl A Pennock
109. John Polanko
110. Franklin E Porter
111. Gerard H Powers
112. Louis F Raber
113. James R Rambo
114. John H Ramsey
115. John E Rapp
116. John C Rau
117.Frederick A Rech
118.Jack V Reimer
119. Frank N Reynolds
120. James A Robb
121. James H Rogers
122. Robert F Hushton
123. Vern I Salsbury
124. Paul E Sekeras
125. Joseph E Semenak
126. Guiseppe Serangeli
127.Eugene P Simonsin
128.George H Smith
129.Walter J. Smith
130. George J Sorbello
131. Paul N Spencer
132. Roy W Spurling
133. Mahlon C Stahlman
134. George R Stejskal
135. William B Suthers
136. Maurice E Thompson
137. Joseph E Thornsberry
138. Angelo M Triunfo
139. Robert M Trollinger
140. Howard L Trudell
141. Howard A Van Etten
142. Joseph P Whalen
143. Fleet C Williams
144. James L Williams
145. Charles D Woods
146.
147. Lewis S Young
October 1st TOP
Mission Documents Piacenza
Barracks / RR Br Magenta Rd and RR Br
The first of the month
brought forth two hot missions which we hope is no indication of the targets to
come. In the morning,
seventeen ships of the 487th Squadron took off to bomb Piacensa barracks in
buildings incurring
considerable damage. One ship was holed as a result of the anti-aircraft
encountered......Second
raid of nine ships took off at
Observations were
inaccurate due to intense flak, but it was believed that hits were scored on
the east
approach. Lt. Donovan
was seriously wounded and his ship forced down as a result of vigorous ground
fire. The made a safe
landing in Allied territory and the crew returned to the base with the
exception of
Lt. Donovan who is
hospitalized in
quantities. Quite a
let-down after the rations we have been getting......Everyone is beginning to
show
the effect of being
without a barber. However, Cpl. Masuto of Ordnance is going to set up as
Squadron
barber in the next day
or so......This being Sunday there was no show at the Group movie tonight.
2nd
An immediate stand-by at
for the remainder of the
day was declared. Weather was given as the reason, although here with
the exception of an
occasional could it was a pretty fair day. However, the wind was strong and
cold,
reminding one of what's
in store for us......Pvt. Kowtowski flew his first mission yesterday and made a
forced landing with a
wounded man aboard. After trying to get out of the Armament Section for over a
month it was quite a
debut to combat......Everyone is now complaining of the lack of mail. It has
been
two days since any mail
whatsoever has come in and over two weeks since a decent mail call.
Naturally we are of the
opinion that the
September's mail is
still en route......A new rule holding all combat crew members here until their
medals are awarded has
caused no end of difficulty. With 12th Air Force Headquarters in the midst of
moving it looks as
though a number of the boys are going to have some wait. Many are asking that
they be put in for no
more medals because going home is much more important than a medal......”I
Dood It” was shown at
the movie tonight......
3rd
Magenta Railroad bridge
was the target for fifteen 487th ships again today. They were over the target
at
plot the bomb pattern,
although it is believed that hits were scored. Anti-aircraft fire was heavy,
intense
and accurate, holing all
ships in the formation although only one man was wounded by flak, Lt. H.H.
Smith......Lt. Oliver of
Tech Supply is now Captain after sweating it out for some time. First Lts. in this
outfit are now very
small fry, at least among the ground officers......The Red Cross Club has
copied our
idea and is now having
regular Bingo nights. It's about time they do something......Mail continues to
be
non-existent with the
exception of about twenty-five letters that came inn today. The situation has
started to affect the
outgoing mail which isn't good for either Army or home-front morale......Major
Parsons and Major Bugbee
are in
movies tonight......
4th
Crews got off the ground
for a mission this morning, but were called back while in the process of
forming. Rain over the
target was given as the reason and a stand-down was immediately
declared......The latest
rumor is that rotation of ground personnel has been set at three men per month
for the entire Group.
Frankly it doesn't make any difference to the majority because the whole thing
has been a huge joke
ever since its origination. It makes good reading material for the folks back
home
and that's about the
extent of its effect on the population......S/Sgt Bunn claims that his newly
issued
O.D.'s include nine
different serial numbers. No doubt they were used by some front line outfit
whose
former owners were among
the casualties. A great percentage of the boys were unable to get anything
near their size and are
still without a winter uniform......With few exceptions everyone in th Squadron
was huddled around all
available speakers and radios for the first game of the World Series tonight.
Many bets were won and
lost in the score of 2 to 1 in favor of the Browns......Our runaway, Pvt.
Coombes, who has been at
large for months was picked up in
the
5th
Another stand-down for
the 487th today. A mission is beginning to be the exception rather thatn the
rule, but unfortunately
we can't control the weather. If it's clear here a safe bet would be that it isn't
over the target
area......During recent stand-down days much time and effort has been devoted
to tent
winterizing and stove
installation. Many Squadron tents are in good shape for the winter including a
gas stove. Wonder how
long it will be before the clamps are put down on gas consumption even
though there is nothing
else to burn. With all of the wood available in
certainly obvious around
here......Capt. Rapp, Operations Officer, is now Major Rapp......Pvt. Kiel who
recently came into the
Squadron as a kitchen man is now an armorer-gunner. A great many of the men
have put in their bid
for combat as the possibility of going home as a ground man fades......Lts.
Rushton
and Spurling are going
to fly a Service Command General around the country for a while. It will be a
break in that they will
see a lot of
played at the movie
tonight......
6th
Rain kept all 487th planes
on the ground today. It might also be added that many of the combat crew
members spent the
greater part of the day in their sacks. A day such as this one was is conducive
to
nothing constructive, if
anything at all. Everyone has that washed out appearance, typical of the “Sad
Sack.” However, in spite
of the miserable weather, hardly a man missed the fresh eggs for breakfast.
The quartermaster amazed
the entire Squadron by issuing 2700 fresh eggs. to top it all off, we had
steak for
dinner......The second jeep in less than a week's time was wrecked today by
Lts. Graber and
Love. Both have broken
legs with possible internal injuries and S-2 is minus a vehicle. It's
surprising
that more haven't been
killed by the break-neck speed with which they travel on these extremely
narrow roads. S/Sgt.
Berry and Sgt. Kyle Rice returned from
Coombes. No one knows
much about his doings since he took off on his own several months ago, as
he is remaining sphinx
like.......“Chip off the Old Block” was the picture shown at the movie
tonight......
7th
Again today the weather
over
occurrences of this
month. Some of the boys who are sweating out their last missions are really
sweating these
days......The Rome planes were unable to take off again today as the field in
closed. This makes the
second extra day for the boys now over there. It's a good deal if they aren't
broke......Six bottles
of beer per man were dispensed today. It was a surprise too, because we thought
that our beer drinking
days overseas were a thing of the past which only goes to prove that one can't
come to immediate
conclusions in the Army......Pay-roll was signed in the mess line
today......Capt.
Winebrenner made a Lite
inspection of the personnel tents this morning and clipped only one wire.
Apparently it was the
only tent honest enough to leave their high voltage bulb in. Other tents with
two
lights were smart enough
to conceal one......”Chip off the Old Block” was repeated at the movie
tonight......
8th TOP
The Squadron was
supposed to put up nineteen planes this morning, but again weather conditions
prevented them from
putting up even the
day of leisure in the
city.....Several promotions among the enlisted ground personnel were announced
today for the first time
in many moons. Cpls. Olson, Zientek, Di Perno, Barteszewaki and While made
Sergeant and PFC Burke
donned two stripes. Burke's tent-mates have already made a sign for the front
of the tent bearing only
the newly made corporal's name......Four ground crew replacements came in
yesterday. One of them
is T/Sgt. Clerk and has caused quite some difficulty in placing him. In order
to
hold the rating open he
has been assigned to Public Relations with Sgt. Fuiks. The idea being to get
out
twice as much P.R.
work......Sunday night is letter writing night in the Squadron since there is
no movie.
The E.M. Club also gets
a particularly big play on Sunday especially after pay-day......
9th
Another stand-down today
which makes it the eighth non-operational day in a row. Weather was given
as the reason although
we enjoyed a very bright day on
stranded in
accommodated and are
still in the city. What a break for those who were forced to remain......After
supper last evening Cpl.
Nelson was cursing to himself while sorting the first mail we've had in quite
sometime. Everyone
eagerly awaited the outcome and although pleased to get what they did, were
disappointed in the
amount of letters still missing. It seems quite apparent that the
completely forgotten
along the mail route. A smattering of fifteen or twenty letters came in
today......Special
Service spent their entire day laying cement in their proposed new location,
directly in
back of S-2 tent. It was
decided to give them a new tent before the personnel and rag they've been
using as a ten was
completely washed away......A new system on handling Air Medals and Clusters
has
been inaugurated which will
do away with a lot of the work. Instead of typing everything a
mimeographed summary and
citation has been added. This should have been thought of long
ago......”Background to
Danger” with Brenda Marshall and George Brent was featured at the movie
tonight.....
10th
It's getting to the
point where it really isn't necessary to state that there was a stand-down in
the 487th
because a mission is
beginning to be the rarity. However, to keep the records straight there was no
mail
today with the weather
held responsible.......A wire came in from the A.T.C. in
stranded personnel on
leave in the city were desperate and that an all out effort should be made to
get
them. Perhaps tomorrow
will be the happy day for which they're waiting......We now have one native
Corsican boy working in
the kitchen on pots and pans. He can't speak Italian or English but manages
to get along......Cpl.
Frank Nasuto has given up bomb loading to become Squadron Barber. Frank is a
good barber and will
make twenty cents a head besides his regular army pay. There's a lot of work in
a
big outfit like this for
one barber......Since packages have ceased coming in everyone seems to be
hungry. Capt. Linthicum
says “About
those evening snacks in
the tent......”Background to Danger” was the picture shown at the movie
tonight......
11th
Another stand-down was
in effect all day as a result of the weather in the target area. No doubt the
boys
on the Italian front are
having one hell of a time with the weather let alone the Krauts......A detail
was
busy cementing the floor
for the Orderly Room today. Surprisingly, the Orderly Room is the last office
in the area to
winterize. No doubt when the entire outfit is completely bedded down for the
winter we
will move. It always
happens that way and for once it really wouldn't be very difficult to pull out
of
this desolate spot,
regardless of the effort put forth to make it livable, providing the new
location wasn't
in the Pacific
Theater......Rotation has become quite a laugh in this Squadron. We read all
the
particulars in the Stars
and Stripes, but no one seems to to home. Replacements continue to come in,
but the old personnel
still remain. Apparently rotation is strictly American newspaper talk or
political
fodder......Special
Service moved into their new quarters today and are pretty comfortably set up
with a
cement floor and new
tent......”You Can't Ration Love” was shown at the Group movie tonight......
12th
Mission Documents Bologna
ammo stores / bivouac
Our first mission in
nine days took off at
outskirts of
covered the target area,
this formation bombed through an opening in the clouds, scoring many direct
hits. Two of the
participating aircraft were holed as a relult of enemy anti-aircraft
fire......S/Sgt. Paul
McMillen, former
mess-sergeant flew his first mission today and was in one of the holed ships. A
number of the crew
members donated their liquor to Paul after the raid which made his story more
humorous. Flying in the
same plane with Paul was Pvt. Garven former armorer on his first mission
also......Two planes
finally got over to
nine days, the last few
without cigarettes or money, they rejoiced at the thought of
contingent who left on
the outgoing planes were in hopes that they would enjoy the same fate – at
least
they are prepared for a
lengthy sojourn......All Medics in the Grop were busy yesterday moving the
patient evacuee's from
DC's landing at our field to the new location of the 40th
hospital moved from
When completed the
hospital will have a beautiful set-up boasting hot and cold running water in
each
building......”You can't
Ration Love” was repeated at the movie tonight......
13th
Friday the 13th! and the
487th stood-down all day which at least satisfied the superstitious. However,
other Squadrons
participated in raids and there were no ill-effects. For a while last night we
were
alarmed when “77” was
trying to land in the rain after its return trip from
landed safely at the
321st field......Ten bags of newspapers and packages came in this morning and
consequently all
personnel spent the entire morning sweating out Cpl. Nelson. Suppose this will
be the
last package delivery
before the Christmas rush so everyone intends to conserve what they received
today......The Squadron
band is improving with its constant practice an dis scheduled to put on a show
sometime next week.
After much controversy it has become a Group band with other members of the
Group now playing
although the majority of its musicians are 487th men......The 340th show was
called
off tonight due to
inclement weather......
14th
Combat crews were
alerted at
and the sun was shining
in
and a stand-down was
declared for the rest of the day. Combat men are becoming very restless and
eager to get in a few
missions as a long lay-off gives them too much time to think......Lt. Cline
went off
the gold standard and
donned the silver bar – he was really sweating it out, but finally made the
grade......Another large
quantity of packages and newspapers came in today much to the delight of all
concerned. First-class
mail is still obvious by its absence and has everyone wondering what the score
is. Mail from the folks
at home is still the Army's #1 morale booster – could it be that nobody
cares?......”uninvited”
starring Ray Milland and Gale Russell was the picture shown at the 340th movies
tonight......
15th TOP
Fair weather conditions
finally enabled us to get in a mission, although not a completely successful
one. At
over primary target, the
alternate target was attacked at
clouds and the 2nd box
did not drop its bombs. The 1st box bombed the choke point at the southern end
of the Ronco Scrivia M/Y
with the pattern extending approximately halfway across the choke point.
On this mission 30x1000
lb. bombs were dropped and the balance of the load was brought back.
Heavy, slight and fairly
moderate ack-ack fire was encountered over the primary target, but no damage
was inflicted on our
planes. Ack-ack over the alternate target was Nil – all planes and crews
returned
safely to the
base......Steaks for dinner today and believe it or not – plenty for everyone.
Even though
tough, they were a
relief from the monotonous ham [?] diet.....P.X. rations were distributed today
–
plenty of candy and
toilet articles, but no cigarettes which does not go ever so big as our last
ration was
two weeks ago and nearly
everyone is out of smokes – looks now like we'll have to depend on the folks
at home to keep us
supplied with cigarettes also......Sunday night, consequently, no movie......
16th
Eighteen crews were
alerted for a mission at
they departed for Group
briefing. Bad weather in the vicinity of the target area once more intervened
and a stand-down was
declared for the rest of the day......These idle days are being spent in making
our
tents comfortable for
the winter months ahead. All who can get the lumber and tools with which to
work are boarding up the
sides of their tents and making all around alterations. The Orderly Room is in
the process of being
modernized with an almost entirely wooden structure and cement floors to boot.
Work on the structure is
just about half finished and it promises to be the “super de-luxe” O.R. of the
Group......At long last
a fair quantity of mail came in – some old stuff and a little new, but not
enough
to compensate for the
many days we received no letters at all. At least the P.O. has discovered that
the
340th Group is still on
the
officers today moved
into their combination mess-hall and club which from all accounts is quite a de
luxe affair. All
officers in the Squadron put forth their best efforts and talents to produce
something
worthwhile and the
finished product is something to be proud of – Our officers really can produce
if
they want
to......”Andy's Blonde Trouble” starring Mickey Rooney and Lewis Stone was the
attraction
at the movies
tonight......
17th
Another missionless day
due to bad weather in the target area. These non-operational days are
occurring altogether too
frequently for combat men especially those who need only a few missions to
wind up their tour and
return to the home shores. If we were any place but this
or a succession of them
would probably be welcomed, but with absolutely no place to go or
anything to do by way of
diversion, lay-offs are bound to become tiresome and boring......Since the
inauguration of the
Officers mess-hall we now have two mess-officers, Lt. Bloomberg has taken over
the duty of filling the
Officers dishes with good things to eat while Lt. Mako continues to see the
E.M.
are provided with more
& more varieties of hash. The Enlisted Men at least got one break out of
the
deal – a little more
space in the mess-hall. It's interesting to watch what the future will bring.
We did
have pork chops for
dinner today – good meatly ones too......The 321st Group entertained at the Red
Cross Club tonight with
a good band and a fairly good vocalist. These days even a 4th class show would
be well received. “Andy
Hardy's Blonde Trouble” was repeated at the movie tonight......
18th
Today was one of those
on again off again affairs as far as a mission was concerned – early alert
which
was postponed for two
hours at the end of which time a stand-down was declared for the rest of the
day. Then contrary to
all rules and regulations an immediate stand-by was declared at
crews were hastily
summoned for take-off at
complete cloud coverage
over the target area prevented them from dropping their bombs. Heavy,
moderate anti-aircraft
fire was encountered east of
all planes returned safely
to the base......Capt. Winebrenner departed today for the States on a thirty
day emergency furlough.
Everyone is anxious to get home even for only a short stay, but prefer to
sweat it out instead of
receiving bad news from the folks back home......Another small quantity of mail
came in today, but not
enough to make us happy. Our letters from September 15 to 30 are still among
the missing – no doubt
the best thing to do is forget the whole deal......”Roger Touhy Gangster” was
the
picture shown at the movies
tonight – not too good.
19th
This afternoon at
bridge in
combat crew members. Five ships were holed,
three men were slightly wounded and Lt. Meek, Copilot
on 7Z was killed. However,
Lt. Lantz brought the ship back to the base with his Co-pilot dead
and three wounded men
aboard. This was our second loss in combat since coming to
regardless of how few the
losses are they always throw the Squadron into a turmoil. Lt. Bloomberg
was wounded for the second
time on this mission and is ready to quit flying right now. Lt. Lantz and
Sgt. Trudell were the
others who were slightly wounded. Due
to the intense flak and smoke from the
other patterns the
efficiency of this raid has not been determined......Two trucks and one plane
went
over to the other side
of the
found their trip to be
in vain. The French now in control of the building they were gong to tear down
refused to allow the
destruction and our men returned empty handed......”Roger Touhy Ganster” was
repeated at the movie
tonight......
20th
Another hot target this
morning for eighteen ships and crews of this squadron – target was Imola stores
and take-off at
FW 190's approached the
rear of the first box, but turned off when fired upon. All bombs are believed
to have landed within the
target area although the effectiveness of such a raid is difficult to
ascertain......This week
Maj. Parsons fell heir to a little trailer home which includes an inner spring
sack, wash basin,
cupboard and many other forgotten luxuries of civilian life. All Squadron
C.O.'s
received one so it's
quite evident that they are being made comfortable for a long and miserable
Corsican winter. Such
things make the lack of provision for the average men more obvious but they
have more to look
forward to in a release from the Army.......Cpl Strom of the Armament Section
received his rotation
papers today, but was unable to get transportation to
fortunate to be going
home after twenty months overseas with an incurable leg infection. Rotation of
ground personnel in this
organization is still the laughing stock of the campaign......”This is the
Life”
was shown at the Group
movie tonight......
21st
Weather kept the 487th
on the ground today although rain on
most of the day......For
some unknown reason a general policing detail was carried out this morning and
after several hours of
picking up everything that doesn't grow, ours was the cleanest cow pasture in
tour of combat are now
on detached service to Wing as assistant crew-chiefs. The rules governing the
disposition of combat
crews changes so frequently that it's difficult to determine who will and who
wont go home after
completing a combat tour. Both boys have visited the Squadron on their
respective
day off and neither of
them are too well satisfied with the present set-up. Such activities would
certainly not encourage
men to volunteer for a second tour once they get home......The Orderly Room is
now completed and has
the title of being the best Orderly Room we've ever had. It's a gray wooden
building with a concrete
floor and the executive office partitioned off......Formal and dirty K.P.
started
officially today. It's
the first time we've had anything but serving detail since the first days of
the
Corsican campaign. Only
two men a day serve, but it's on that day we'll appreciate what the Italian
civilian help did for us
until someone got the bright idea to send them home......”This is the Life” was
repeated at the movie
tonight......
22nd TOP
Weather conditions kept
487th planes away from
getting pretty hot and
most of the boys sigh a sigh of relief on cloudy mornings with the exception of
those sweating out their
last missions and are anxious to get out of here. Those sweating out awards
are really burned up by
a mix-up somewhere along the line which is holding up all recent General
Orders – providing any
have been issued......The Group orchestra made its debut last night at the Red
Cross Enlisted Men's
Club. It was pretty good considering the fact that it was the first time many
of
them had played
together. At each rehearsal new members are added consequently perfection has
not
been achieved as yet.
Co. Chapman was present at the debut and showed his approval by requesting
that they play at the
Officers Club on Monday night......Cpl. Strom is still eagerly awaiting a plane
to
However, he will get off
for sure in the morning......Captains Barry and Holmes have already departed
for the
in soon because a great
number of men are finishing up now......No show played at the 340th movie
tonight – it being
Sunday......
23rd
Mission Documents Nickeling
runs at 5 locations
Took off. Instead of
explosives they were loaded with “nickels” for
and Imola. It's unusual
that a nickeling mission encounters opposition, but this one met anti-aircraft
fire that holed five
ships and wounded two men. Lts. Cuthbertson and Lyle. However, the “nickels”
were successfully
dropped in their respective areas......Group has put out an order that all
Squadron
enlisted men's bars will
close at
concur that there isn't
much point in having one under those circumstances......Generals Cannon and
Knapp were supposed to
be on the field this afternoon for an award presentation, bu the whole thing
was called off around
permanently because many
of the combat men have declared they would rather draw their decoration at
Supply. The guard of
honor stands out there like a bunch of monkeys and received nothing, so it
stands
to reason that they
wouldn't be disappointed if the custom was dispensed with......”Meet the
People”
played at the movie
tonight starring Lucille Ball and Dick Powell......
24th
Stand-down remained in
effect all day due to inclement weather. Probably the original declaration of a
stand-down was for the
purpose of presenting awards although weather kept all four Squadrons on the
ground. General Knapp
presented the medals although before his arrival it as rumored that General
Cannon would be with
him. There were very few combat men in the squadron who weren't decorated
and quite a number of
ground personnel made up the honor guard so the entire outfit was fairly well
represented. With the
number of awards being dished out, presentation should become a regular part of
this
organization......Mail has been conspicuous by its absence in the last few
days, but the sign read
“Beaucoup” today which
made many of the boys happy. “Beaucoup” to us is half a bag full with two
or three letters a
piece. Either people at home have discontinued writing or we just aren't
getting it.
Regardless of how rarely
mail does come Cpl. Nelson the mail clerk remains as sour as any one person
could be...... Pvt. A.D.
Rice is on K.P. indefinightly for being late the other morning and then failing
to
show up the second day
as ordered. Everyone is rather happy to see such things occur because it just
keeps them off the
miserable detail......”Meet the People” was repeated at the Group movie
tonight......
25th
Another stand-down was
in effect for the 487th Squadron today as a result of the weather. Heavy rains
started in the morning and
continued intermittently throughout the day until evening when it became a
steady downpour. Many of
the boys spent the early part of the night battling the water and from all
indications if it
persists some tents will be completely washed away. The Red Cross Club is
already
submerged under three or
four feet of water......Rumors of a move are again very prominent although
this rumor is like a
streetcar – it comes and goes......War news is good on all fronts particularly
so in the
Pacific where the Jap and
American Navy's are reported to be engaged in a sea battle off the
Phillipines. Complete
details are not available although it looks like T.S. for the Jap Navy.
Progress in
fall of
large scale offensive
from the West......Rains kept the movie goers under cover tonight......
26th
Another stand-down day
due to the heavy rains which continued steadily throughout the night and all
morning. Many of the
boys spent an uncomfortable night due to leaking tents and several inches of
water which tended to
make a row boat out of their happy homes. Just about half of the Squadron was
inundated and nothing
could be done to relieve the situation until the rain ceased at about
Fortunately the skies
cleared and the unfortunates who were washed out hurriedly transferred their
tents
to a hight spot in the
area to insure against a repeat performance of last nights disaster. The
Squadron
area has taken on the
aspect of a Quartermaster Laundry with blankets, clothes and cots conspicuously
“drying out.” Besides
all the personnel tents, the Enlisted mens Club was also hit hard. The musical
instruments took a bad
beating, particularly the piano when the water just about reached the
ivories......The good
news from all fronts and particularly the progress being made in the Pacific
area
helps lots to boost the
morale of an organization who has been taking it on the chin for nigh onto
twenty-one
months......”The Marauders” from the 42nd Bomb Wing entertained at the E.M. Red
Cross
Club tonight to a large
audience in spite of the fact that the road leading to the club was “knee high”
mud......To alleviate
the suffering, 340th movie presented “Follow the Boys” another entertaining
show......
27th
Stand-down as again the status
for the 487th Squadron today. Weather conditions here as well as over
the target area were
responsible. However, two planes managed to get off for
boys sweating out
spending four long days
awaiting transportation. Despite the rain and hazardous route the ships were
allowed to take off from
Capadichino and arrived here just before dark......The Squadron finally got the
six Yugoslav's to work
in the kitchen. We had almost given up hope of even getting them, but it's
always better late than
never. To the delight of everyone concerned K.P. will again be done away with
– thanks to the
Yugoslavs......The rain today kept everyone pretty close to the sack, if not in
it. It's quite
apparent that the 487th
will log more sack time than combat time this winter if the past week is any
indication of
28th
A clear day broke this
morning for the first time in over a week. However, the 487th was on a
stand-down
and other Squadrons were
unable to take off from the water soaked runway with a bomb load,
consequently there was
not raid for the entire Group. The 487th will remain on a stand-down status
until the other
Squadrons pull a mission, unless and unusual number of ships are
required......The
Group showers were
functioning today and the area surrounding the building resembled a popular
“drive-in.” many have
been unable to shower for some time and took advantage of the hot water
today......Our newly
added Yugoslav help was busy hauling sand today for the mess-hall area. From
all
the attention the
mess-hall gets one would think it a very swank dining salon, but one meal would
prove otherwise. Another
detail was busy hauling rocks for the washed-out auto path through the area.
Rain has brought much
work to the 487th......”So's Your Uncle” with Billie Burke played at the movie
tonight......
29th
Stand-down was in effect
all day again. If it isn't the weather itself it's the condition the weather
has
left our field in. This
was the second good day in succession for us here on
unusual......The
training program is forging ahead on these missionless days. Naturally everyone
concerned is not too
happy about the whole thing, but its orders from higher ups. It does seem
rather
ridiculous to indulge
men who have flown many combat missions in an extensive training schedule.
Perhaps its in
preparation for the C.B.I. Theater. After a transition flight in the morning,
Lts. Evans and
L[?]artz cracked up an
airplane in the middle of the runway. The pilots claim that the landing gear
buckled up but the
common story is that intending to pull up the flaps a mistake was made and the
landing gear was hoisted
half way down the runway. Whatever the trouble was a terrific amount of
damage was done to one
airplane......Cpl. McCarter passed out about three-thirty this afternoon right
outside the mess-hall.
He has been subject to spells lately, probably from over indulgence or lack of
“spirits.” The episode
caused considerable commotion however, the ambulance and medicos took the
situation in hand. Last
night the orchestra played its first paying engagement. It was at a dinner
dance
given by the 306th
Officers in their club. Besides a wonderful steak dinner each enlisted band
member
received five
dollars......”So's Your Uncle” was repeated at the movie tonight......
30th
Stand-down was again the
order of the day although local training flights put many planes and men in
the air. We had a heavy
shower this afternoon, but after clearing off, the remainder of the day was
rather pleasant,
although cold......Mail has been coming in abundantly for the past week much to
the joy
of all concerned. Dates
of letters vary from very old to the other extreme and everyone is pretty well
caught up on back mail
now. Some airmail letters are over a month old while others are barely a week
enroute, nevertheless
they're all letters that we've been sweating out for a long time. We hope that
a
new method of delivery
has been devised so that the worst is behind us......The six Yugoslavs we have
working in the mess-hall
are the best workers we've ever had. Pots really shine when they get through
with them. Their
distribution had been undecided for a few days but they are divided evenly now
–
three in the officers
mess and three in the Enlisted Mens......A vote was taken to decide the fate of
the
Enlisted Mens Club after
it had been practically washed out by the rains. No one in the area was
particularly anxious to
have it so it will be moved to the line when they get around to the moving.
Incidentally the club
hasn't functioned since the watery days......”Gildersleeves Ghost” with Harold
Perry and Mariam Martin
played at the movie tonight......
31st
A stand-down just is
assumed nowadays and today was no exception. However, a simulated raid
including briefing et al
was carried out this afternoon......The boys were unable to get over to
again today giving the
men already over there another day added to their now long overdue pass.
Every morning, the men
to go on pass prepare themselves for the trip, but before the morning is over
the flight is canceled
due to the condition of Littoria......Lts. Sterling and Narusewicz, S/Sgts.
Crosby
and Leatherwood returned
to the Squadron tonight after furloughing in the States. When it isn't
compulsory we sometimes
wonder why anybody would return to combat although they seem to be
happy and sane. The
story is still the same concerning the c........s..... in the
haven't been home for
almost two years feel that we could stand it. S/Sgt. Crosby brought the cooks a
nice big can opener
which could have been a subtle hint but nevertheless very
appropriate......Surprisingly
no one's carbine was found to be very much out of order yesterday at
inspection. Gas masks
were also given the old one – two......Pay call was held today for both
officers
and enlisted men. Many
games of chance were pursued following the happy
occasion......”Gildersleeves
Ghost” was repeated at the movie tonight......
Transcribed by Dan
Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
November 1944
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley
B. Changes in
organization:
Major Lewis F. Parsons
was relieved of assignment as Commanding Officer on
Major John E. Rapp was
assigned to the Command on the same order.
Capt. Paul N. Spencer
was appointed Squadron Operations Officer on
John E. Rapp.
Capt. Olan B. Parrish
was appointed Ass't. Sq. Operations Officer, vice Capt. Paul N. Spencer.
1st Lt. George H. Smith
was appointed Act'g. Squadron Adjutant vice Capt. Bernard M. Coyle who was
furloughed to the
Unightd States.
i. Losses in Action
S/Sgt. George H. Killen,
Wounded in action over
j. Personnel who have
distinguished themselves in action.
Willard A. Bruce
Noble H. Byars
Charles F. Donovan
Lucien B. Gould
Justin F. Graber
William D. Hale
Robert L. Hill
Horace E. Jones
Walter F. Joyce
David Konigsberg
Wilbur C. Lantz
Robert E. MacMillen
George S. Moule
William E. McGriffin
Louis F. Raber
Robert F. Rushton
(twice)
Guiseppi Serangeli
Mahlon C. Stahlman
Awarded Air Medals and
Clusters thereto:
Bernard Albert
James J. Allen
Dominic Angelini
James W. Austin, Jr.
Balise A. Azzara
Billy Jo Barry
William N. Baskerville
Gerald F. Becker
Robert Bishop
Wildore Bousquet
Willard A. Bruce
Oliver A. Buendel
Marion C. Burger
Gordon E. Butterfield
Noble H. Byars
Gerald W. Carstensen
Thomas W. Cavanagh
Louis Cerbara
Joseph M. Cline Jr.
Harry L. Cochran Jr.
Emmette W. Coleman
John H. Collamore Jr.
Hubert Conwill
Fred L. Cormack
William P. Crandell
Luke J. Crosby
Paul V. Deneen Jr.
James C. Dinkler
Charles F. Donovan
John T. Edwards
Myron E. Erickson
Richard F. Evans
Edgar E. Evarts
Stewart Farnham
Alleson J. Forrister
James M. Garner
Pierre P. Garvin
Carl Genian
Robert N. Gist
Edward G. Graham
William D. Hale
Nelson Halstead
David D. Handel
Raymond S. Heckman Jr.
Thomas A. Hetzel
Kenneth H. Hill
Robert L. Hill
Kenneth R. Hopkins
Harvey M. Hyland
Romeo J. Ingley
Emil F. Jettmar
Charles E. Jones
Horace E. Jones
Walter F. Joyce Jr.
Donald M. Kenney
Edwin A. Kenyon
Herman H.W.
George H. Killen
Charles R. Klebes Jr.
David Konigsberg
Paul S. Kowtowski
William E. Krebs
Francis J. La
John E. Leatherwood
Robert E. Lehmkuhl
Roger D. Lewis
Julius Lieberman
James A Littlefield
Eugene S. Love
Bryant O. Lyons
Paul H. Mabe
John P. Mako
Robert H. Meek
Marlan J. Michel
John C. Miller
George S. Moule
Paul E. McDonnell
William E. McGriffin
Paul S. McMillen
Walter V. McVee
Harry P. Naruszewicz
Edward W. Oviatt
Olban B. Parrish
Carl A. Pennock
John Polanko
Joseph F. Quinlin
James R. Rambo
John H. Ramsey
John E. Rapp
John C. Rau
James A. Robb
Paul E. Sekeras
Joseph E. Semenak
Guiseppe Serangeli
Eugene P. Simonson
George H. Smith
Kenneth G. Sparling
Roy W. Spurling
Mahlon C. Stahlman
George R. Stejskal
William B. Suthers
Nathan G. Thomas
Joseph F. Thornsberry
Robert M. Trollinger
Howard L. Trudell
Joseph P. Whalen
James L. Williams
John J.S. Wisanowski
Ralph L. Woods
War Diary November 1944
November 1st
With the exception of
local training flights which have become quite common around these parts,
activities are practically
at a stand-still.....Airplanes are still unable to land in
to be under a foot and a
half of water – what a break for the boys marooned over there providing they
are well supplied with
money and have a source for procuring cigarettes......A much needed combat
crew came in the other
night, but with the number finishing up we'll need a lot more. According to
present indications
there will be no set number of missions to complete a tour of duty, it's said
that the
maximum effort will be
required whether it be fifty missions or a hundred and fifty. Needless to say
the idea has caused a
great deal of unrest among combat men......We are to move within two weeks
according to the latest
rumor, but no one is placing much faith in the idea......Supply is
requisitioning
all equipment lost in
the recent flood and the cooks seem to be the heaviest losers. We also put in
orders for the new field
jackets and a sweater today......Major Bugbee is now functioning up in Group
Hq. for an indefinight
period......”Starmaker” was shown at the Group movie tonight......
2nd
Despite a nice bright
morning the Squadron was inactive. However, there were a few local training
flights plus one trip to
supposed to cover
in the intended three
days......After four days in
sojourn was over and the
ship returned today. Everyone claims to have had the time of their lives so
the Egyptian cities must
be the cosmopolitan cities they always were. S/Sgt. Garner is back to beat the
drums in the band once
more......Sgt. Fuiks was running through the area today like a crazed child
waving two three day
passes for
to wait another day for
the sight of Marcus......Fresh Chicken for dinner today and it was the second
day in a row which is
really amazing......”Starmaker” was repeated at the movie tonight.......
3rd
The same old story today
– Stand-down. Everyone, both ground and combat personnel are getting
restless and tired of
nothing to do. Sending the outfit home for the winter looks like a good solution
although impossible.
Sunny
flight over
be bad......The band
played a paying engagement at the Officers Club tonight. Besides five bucks for
each enlisted man
there's usually a few of those much sought after American whiskey
drinks......The
Enlisted Men’s mess
Officer, Lt. Mako, spends every meal hour soliciting the men while they're eating.
However, if the meal is
too poor he doesn't appear to ask for opinions. There hasn't been much
complaint on the meals
lately though......Quite a number of the men are taking correspondence courses
which is undoubtedly due
to all the circulars distributed within the last few months. Rumor has it that
educational classes will
be compulsory for those left over here at the war's end......”Beautiful but
Broke” with Joan Davis
played at the movies tonight......
4th
Practice flights were
the only activities of the day. It's been so long since we've had a mission
that the
boys are giving up all
hopes of ever finishing their tour. The ground personnel who went into flying
in
order to get home aren't
progressing very rapidly......Now that the piano has been moved to the Special
Service tent, the
surrounding area has been filled with music good and bad. However, the day room
being built on the end
of the enlisted men's mess-hall will house all musical instruments very
soon......Instructions
came in this morning that all personnel would be in full O.D. uniform with ties
or
complete fatigues. The
reason being that the General was to make an appearance. Naturally he didn't
show up because he never
does although it's good to see the area cleaned up occasionally. What a
General would be
parading around a cow pasture like this for is beyond comprehension. He spent
his
entire visit pinning
medals on 488th and 89th men......We received word that 7M had landed safely
somewhere in Italy after
fearing it to be lost several days ago on a routine flight to Naples. T/Sgt.
Bills
was th only 487th man on
board......”Beautiful but Broke” was repeated at the movies tonight......
5th
The 487th pulled its
first raid this morning in one day less than two weeks. Take-off for twelve ships
was at 09:41 hours and
they were over the target which was Padua East Railroad bridge at 11:47. The
first box crossed the
center of the bridge while the second box bombed in the smoke of preceding
formations with exact
results undetermined. Anti-Aircraft fire encountered was out of range and no
damage was incurred.
This was one of the longest, if not the longest mission we've had since being
on
Corsica......Different
reports are coming from the Officers Mess – some say it's good and others say
it's
terrible. Every officer
had to pay twelve dollars into the fund this month, but that is supposed to be
for
the purpose of building
up a liquor stock. They say that next month's dues will be no more than six
dollars......T/Sgt. John
Bills arrived back in the Squadron today and was accorded almost the same
greeting that the downed
combat men get when they return through enemy lines......No show tonight, it
being Sunday.
6th
Two distinct raids were
executed by the 487th Squadron today. First one consisting of six airplanes
took
off at 09:53 hours
carrying 72x100 phosphorous bombs to be dropped on gun positions at Trento,
Italy.
Anti-aircraft fire was
heavy, intense and accurate, holing three ships. Five or six enemy fighters
were
observed at
350 yards and came in
directly under a B-25, chandelled and went down with smoke trailing from its
fuselage. Ten minutes
later the remaining E/A in formation overtook the B-25's and at 1200 yds.
started to come in at
and Sgt. Whipple claim
the enemy fighter, but the actual downer will probably never be determined. In
spite of all, the
difficulty encountered over the target did not prevent a successful raid as
photographs
prove that the gun
positions were well covered by our pattern. The second wave of six B-25's of
this
Squadron taking off at
10:05 hours with 20x1000 bombs weren't quite so successful in their attack on
Borgo E. Railroad
bridge. Their pattern hit approximately 100 yards east of the east approach.
However, ack-ack was inaccurate
and the raid was considered a milk run......Next to arguing as to who
knocked down the enemy
fighter things were rather quiet today......General Cannon was at the Group
yesterday for the
celebration of the 600th mission. He commended the terrific bombing being done
by
the 340th......”Pistol
Packin' Mama” was shown at the Group movie tonight. It is one of the worst
pictures any Group has
ever seen.......
7th
A force of twelve 487th
bombers took off this morning to bomb Latisana railroad bridge in Northern
Italy. Flak was nil and
the formation placed an excellent pattern scoring direct hits by both boxes.
All
planes were back to the
base safely at 13:55 hours......It's quite evident that combat men who up to
now
thought they were
finished will have to fly at least ten more missions. After being threatened with
court-martial and the
prospect of losing their rank the boys have decided to give in. Thus the quota
of a
combat tour has increased
to seventy missions which is probably exactly what was strived for when the
fracas started......This is an important date in the U.S. today although it's not
much more than another
Tuesday to us. However,
the political question is discussed regularly throughout the meal hours.
Republicans and
Democrats are pretty well divided in this organization although no one is
betting on
Dewey. None of us will
probably ever know what the other would have done had he been elected, but
new talent always
provides variety.......Most of the afternoon was spent sweating out the mail
which
according to the time
taken to sort should have been abundant. It turned out to be papers, a few
packages and some old
beat-up long overdue letters......”Pistol Packin' Mama” was repeated at the
movie tonight......
8th TOP
It was announced this morning
that President Roosevelt was still our Commander in chief. Quite
naturally everyone
wasn't completely satisfied, but the decision was made by popular vote and the
only
thing to do is back the
President one hundred percent. We can only hope that he brings us through this
war as quickly as
possible with a lasting peace......Twelve squadron bombers took off at 10:18
hours to
bomb Pinzano railroad
bridge in northern Italy. A few bombs cut the railroad track although the
pattern
hit south of the bridge,
no hits were observed on bridge or approach. No flak or other enemy
opposition was
encountered and all planes and crews returned safely to the base......Maj. Parsons called
a meeting of all combat
men to impart the latest news on the length of a combat tour. The minimum
effort is now seventy
missions and needless to say the change has caused quite a bit of dissension,
particularly among those
who have completed sixty missions and have been waiting around for three or
four weeks for their
departure papers......Fried Chicken for
dinner today and really tough birds – the
spam served for supper
was even more palatable......Another “Beaucoup” mail delivery made an
uneventful day a little
interesting......”Bride by Mistake” starring Larraine Day was the entertaining
picture shown at the
movie tonight......
9th
Mission Documents Tomba S
RR Br
At 09:55 this morning
six bombers of the 487th Squadron took off to bomb Tomba south railroad bridge
in Northern Italy.
However, a heavy undercast completely covered the target area and all planes
returned with their
bombs. It was a milk-run, probably due to the fact that gun batteries were
unable to
sight the
formation......A band naming contest is now in effect for the purpose of naming
the eleven
piece 340th band. The
contest will be over next Thursday and the winner will receive a case of beer.
In
the otherwise colorless
and dumb Red Cross enlisted men's club, the band gave forth with a little swing
session beginning at
20:30 this evening. About the only time anyone is interested in going to the
Red
Cross Club is on a
special occasion because it's a cinch sugar cookies and rancid coffee is no
inducement.......Master
Sergeants have been detailed to count the number eating at each meal hour.
1st/Sgt. Parkins started
it out today using the bean method. Some say it's to get an exact count on how
many eat at each meal
and others claim that the rations are going to be cut as we are no longer
considered combat troops.
Guess the boys going up to bomb Northern Italy are just going for the
ride......”Bride by
Mistake” was repeated at the movie tonight......
10th
Mission Documents Cittadella
bypass Casale Monferrato RR Br
Two six ship missions
left the ground today within twenty minutes of one another. First six took off
at
holed by the intense
flak encountered although they failed to drop their bombs due to a
malfunctioning
intervelometer in the
lead ship.......Cittadella by-pass was the target for the following six ship
formation. Their pattern
cut the eastern end of the by-pass at the over-water section with direct hits
observed on target. No
ack-ack was encountered over the target although a slight barrage was met
enroute. All planes
returned to the base undamaged......A gale with about a seventy mile an hour
velocity swept the
Squadron area last night leaving the mess-hall in quite an upheaval. The mess
tents
were in the midst of a
frequent change over, the purpose being to make more head-space. The three
tents that had been
raised were blown down, frame work and all. The enlisted men's club on the end
of
the mess-hall just
collapsed like a pre-fab job. Special Service tent and several other tents on
the line
also took to the air.
Needless to say, it took many a detail to put things back in shape. There's
always
something to keep the
boys busy......Lts. Spencer, Sterling, Holley and V.J. Miller made Captain
today
and Lt. Sparling made
First. Too bad we don't have suitable facilities for a proper
celebration.......”Once
Upon a Time” played at the 340th movie tonight.......
11th
Mission
Eighteen bombers of the
Squadron took off at
bridge in
portion knocking the
bridge out with large craters observed. Direct hits were also scored on a
highway
bridge just south of the
given target. Enemy opposition was nil and all planes returned safely to the
base......On Major Parsons'
recent hop around the country he stopped at Athens, Greece. They were
only there for two days,
but everyone on the plane was favorably impressed by the City. The only thing
they brought back was
Greek liquor which is supposed to be very good.......Cpl. Nelson is marooned
down in Catania due to a
mal-functioning nose wheel. It is hoped that the mail continued to come in as
it has been doing since
he departed. Whether by coincidence or otherwise is not determined, but we
always seem to get more
mail when “Smiley” is on leave......The mess-hall is standing once more
although there is still
plenty of repairing to be done following the big wind from somewhere......”Once
Upon a Time” was
repeated at the movie tonight.......
12th
Crews were alerted and ready
for a mission this morning, but at the last minute a stand-down was
declared. Shortly after
the raid was called off a wind storm set in which lasted throughout the
afternoon – winter has
come to Corsica......Rations were distributed today in quantity although the
selection of candy
wasn't too good. Fourteen packs of cigarettes for two weeks is not sufficient
for a
heavy smoker and
consequently much bargaining is being done. Eight bottles of beer were
dispersed to
each man yesterday as
the two week ration......S-2 has procured some wood for the purpose of
winterizing their
office. They had been putting off the ordeal in anticipation of a pre-fab
building to be
shared with the
Parachute department, but that possibility looks like a lost cause......Every Enlisted
man
payed an extra fifteen
francs with his P.X. rations today for ice-cream that we are supposed to have
next
Sunday. It seems that
some sort of an ice-cream powder was received with the rations this week. A
fine time to start
sending ice-cream over here......No picture was shown at the Group movie
tonight. It's
getting a little chilly
for open air movies any night now.......
13th
Mission
Today at 11:45 twelve planes
of this Squadron took off to bomb Faenza road bridge in Northern Italy.
Clouds completely
obscured that target and all bombs were returned to the base......Football is
starting
up around the area
lately. No actual games are played, but everyone seems to be knocking
themselves
out by just throwing the
ball around the place......Rumor has it that we'll be out of Corsica by the
15th of
next month. The supposed
new location will be in the vicinity of Rimini. It may be a nice place
although it's going to be
cold over on the Adriatic. Rumors of a Pacific move have quieted down
considerably which is
just as well......Next to going home, the arrival of Christmas packages will
rival any
event that could take
place. However, if it goes like it did last year, it won't be long before
everyone
will be sick and tired
of packages......The Malta ship that was grounded in Catania for the last few
days
due to nose wheel
trouble arrived back at the base tonight. Cpl. “Smiley” Nelson, who remained in
Catania for the entire
period is still impressed by the Sicilian women......The picture for tonight
was
called off due to rain.
14th
Mission for today was
called off this morning due to poor weather over the target area. It was just
as
well that there was no
mission because most combat men were on the roster to receive awards. The
presentation was held at
two P.M. by Gen'l. Knapp in front of Group Operations. A band played during
the ceremony which
relieved the monotony to some extent although it still seemed like the entire Island
of Corsica was
decorated. This is the second time Gen. Knapp pinned on D.F.C's to the tune of
“My
Sweet Little Alice Blue
Gown.” It's a toss up as to who is the most eager to avoid these days, the men
being presented or the
honor guard......We had half hours notice this morning to have the area in
inspection order. Col.
Chapman was the inspecting officer and he was evidentially well satisfied with
the cow pasture.
1st/Sgt. Parkins called a meeting immediately following the inspection and
complimented the
enlisted men......Rain threatened all day, but the threat never developed into
anything
other than an occasional
drop or two......”Louisiana Hayride” was shown at the Group movie tonight......
15th TOP
No mission today and very
little of anything else. Italy was closed in completely from Naples to the
bomb line and
consequently not even the regular pleasure ships left the base......All members
of the
band were planning on a
three day vacation in Rome, starting today and the weather kept them here for
an engagement at the
Officers Club tonight. It was quite a mixed up affair until the weather
intervened
because invitations had
been sent out and it would have been impossible to change everyone's plans as
they were intent on going
to the big city......The Officers Club had been closed for several days due to
a
threatened epidemic of
trench mouth. However, the threat must be under control by now......The first
load of Christmas
packages came in today and although there weren't a great deal of them we're
expecting
to be deluged with them
from now on. Now that they've started its a pretty good bet that the deliveries
will be numerous from
now on until the glad day......A new crew joined the Squadron yesterday, but
the
Lord only knows why as
it doesn't look as though anyone will be finishing up for sometime to
come......”The Gang's
All Here” was shown at the Group movie tonight......
16th
Faenza Road bridge was
again the target for twelve bombers of the 487th Squadron. Take-off was at
13:25 hours, and all
planes returned safely to the base after completing the very successful raid.
Direct
hits were observed on
the bridge with several spans believed knocked out. Anti-aircraft fire
encountered was
inaccurate and no damage was done to the participating aircraft. Six planes of
this
Squadron also
participated in a nickeling mission over Northern Italy this morning. Nickels
were
dropped in the
designated areas without opposition......Approximately twenty men awaited
take-off for
Rome this morning, but
the wait was in vain as Italy remained closed for the day. The bunch now over
there are really getting
a break......S-2 spent the time between missions winterizing the department.
They now have a very
nice set-up boasting wood floor and sides......Rumor has it the one must be
overseas at least
twenty-nine months before even being eligible for rotation. Stuff like this
really does
something for the
morale....A recent article about the 340th Group appearing in a New Your paper
stated
that no one was the
slightest bit war weary. Are they kidding?.......”The Gang's All Here” was
repeated
at the Group movie
tonight......
17th
Stand-down was announced
last night for the 487th Squadron. It was our turn to stand-down. The boys
trying to finish up in a
hurry aren't very appreciative of a missionless day particularly when the
weather
is good......Several
nights ago after the dance at the Officers Club Lts. Cline, Deneen and Van
Etten
decided to make merry in
the area. Sleepers were slightly annoyed by the hilarious group, but after
several hours they
either passed out or gave up the idea and the area returned to a pleasant
solitude.
Needless to say, the
participants were very sad looking sacks the next morning......Rumor has it
that
pilfering from the officers
mess is reaching extreme proportions and recently they found it necessary to
substitute hard talk for
bread at the
have to be
erected.......Several combat crew members spent a hectic day dodging the M.P.'s
in Corte
today. No one will
divulge the day's activities, but its supposed that they had a little too much
Corsican
tonic which usually
leads to not so honorable desires......”Falcon in Mexico” was the picture at
the
movie tonight......
18th
Target for twelve 487th
planes was the Zidanimost railroad bridge in Yugoslavia. There was no enemy
opposition encountered
and both patterns covered the south central portion and south approach to
bridge with four or five
direct hits observed. It was a long mission although all planes returned safely
from the almost five
hours raid. It was rather coincidental that the Squadron hit Yugoslavia just
about a
year ago this time.
Already many rumors concerning a move to Yugoslavia are circulating. One year
ago when we raided
Yugoslavia it was believed that the war was about over, but today its another
story.
However, now that that
long promised push on the western front has begun some optimists still think
the war in Europe will
be over this year. The Russians have been unable to crack the Budapest
defenses to date
although they are fighting on the outskirts of the famous European
Capital......Cpl.
Cissel returned to his
tent tonight slightly under the weather to find “Uncle Willie,” popular
Squadron
canine, in his sack.
Cissel found it necessary to make up another bed on the floor before “Uncle
Willie” would
budge......The Squadron received “beaucoup” mail today only to find it had been
misdirected and belonged
to a hospital in Italy. Naturally the disappointment was celebrated with much
bitching......”The
Falcon in
19th
Mission Documents Faenza N
RR Br
Twelve bombers of this
Squadron took off at 11:23 hours, one element of six to bomb Faenza north
road bridge and the
other to bomb Faenza south road bridge. Both bridges and approaches received
hits although it is
believed that they were left intact. Heavy caliber anti-aircraft fire was
experienced
on the bomb run, but due
to its inaccuracy no damage was done to the formation......Planes are still
unable to take off for
Rome which is giving the boys now over there quite a leave. The boys about to
go on pass prepare to
leave every morning, but the weather and condition of Littoria landing ground
alter their plans
daily.......Lt. Mako has developed the habit of waiting around the mess hall in
the
morning to see that on
one eats after eight o'clock. The sad part is that his watch is the only
correct
time piece in the Squadron
and he settles all arguments by saying a matter of minutes is
unimportant......For the
last few days the mail situation has reverted to the “poco” or “T.S.” category.
Last year at this time
we were getting Christmas packages in abundance......The rationing of bread to
the
tune of two per man each
meal has put a cramp in the regular evening snacks. However, with the
absence of packages no
one has much to eat anyway......Regular church services were held at the Red
Cross Club today
although a new Catholic Chaplain officiated.......No show was given by the
340th
tonight.......
20th
The mission scheduled
this morning was called off and a stand-down declared as a result of the
weather
in target vicinity. The supposed
target was a milk-run detail which always meets with disapproval
when called off......A
little change has taken place in the mess-hall menu. Instead of having the main
meal which usually
consists of fresh meat at
reasons are responsible
for the change......The parachute Department has moved out to the line in a
prefab
building. However, the
parachute boys who spent so much time and effort on their personal tent
have decided to remain
in the Squadron area with the exception of Delorge. The vacated parachute
tents will be used for a
“Day Room” to be added on the mess-hall......A U.S.O. show called Hollywood
Hi-Jinks was staged at
the Red Cross Club tonight. There were two showings, one at 6:30 P.M. for
enlisted personnel and
the other at 8:30 for officers and the remaining E.M. who were unable to get in
at the first
performance. The place was so crowded that few actually saw the show. Men were
hanging
from the rafters and
every other imaginable place. Seven lovely women made the show a success
despite the conditions
under which it was seen. More live shows of this variety would be a decided
improvement......
21st
A six ship formation
from this Squadron took off with a frag load this morning, but was called back
due
to the weather. The
target was to have been troop concentrations in the Faenza area......It looks
as
though the personnel of
the 487th have seen their last of Rome for a while anyway. Group tells us that
Littoria is closed to
B-25's while the field is under repair. Steel matting is being installed and
the job
may take all winter. In
the meantime leaves to Capri are being granted......It was disclosed at a
meeting
of all enlisted men
today that Major Parsons thanked the men for their cooperation during his
regime
and turned the meeting
over to Major Rapp. It's beginning to look as though the original enlisted
ground crew will be all
that remains of the old 487th. Capt. Parrish assumed the duty of Ass't.
Operations Officer. Lt.
George Smith who was grounded for medical reasons after forty-four missions
as a bombardier is now
Squadron Adjutant. Major Bugbee is also back with the Squadron after his tour
of detached service in
Group Hq. Lt. Lane is functioning as Supply and Transportation officer although
he's still wearing the
Infantry insignia and will do so for thirty days after his transfer goes into
effect.
Capt. Tasker is still in
hospital......”Song of the Open Road” was the picture shown at the Group movie
tonight......
22nd TOP
This morning at 09:50
hours twelve bombers of the 487th Squadron took off to bomb the Faenza
defense area. Both frag
patterns landed within the target area causing large explosions. It is believed
that great damage and
heavy casualties were inflicted on the enemy during this successful raid.
Antiaircraft
fire was encountered
northeast of the target area, but is was inaccurate and no damage was done
to the raiding
bombers......Many combat crew members are nearing the “seventy mark” with no
immediate hope of relief
as replacements just aren't coming in. High officials must expect the war to
be over soon, but we
don't seem to share the feeling......Representatives of the Adjutant General's
Office
were inspecting the
Squadron today. They inspected everything from mess-kits to administrative
files
not leaving a stone
unturned. Apparently the inspectors were well satisfied as we have heard
nothing to
the contrary as yet. All
men had the privilege of speaking to the Major representing the Adjutant
General and it is
rumored that eleven combat crew members approached him on the question of
enlisted combat men
being barred from the Medical Disposition Board. No doubt there will be
reprisals on this
score......Everyone is getting in readiness for the big meal tomorrow- its
rumored to be
sensational. However,
the fanfare of last Thanksgiving is obvious by its absence. The boys are more
interested in getting
home than they are in turkey dinners......”In the Meantime Darling” was shown
at
the cold outdoor 340th
Group movie tonight......
23rd
Thanksgiving Day – A
mission was scheduled this morning but before
stand-down declared.
Perhaps the reason was weather but we're inclined to think the holiday might
have had something to do
with it......In the way of celebration, we had fresh eggs from Catania for
breakfast and then
waited until three o'clock came around for the big meal. At
was standing in line and
the meal was really worth waiting for. It consisted of a huge portion of
turkey,
fine dressing, potatoes,
vegetables, fresh salad, fruit salad, cranberry sauce, fresh bread and butter,
coffee and apple pie.
Two bottles of beer were also distributed to each man. All ground officers were
invited and accepted the
invitation to dine at the Enlisted Men's mess-hall. They say the Officers Mess
was really a MESS with
everyone full of Thanksgiving cheer although the same menu predominated up
there......Where all the
liquor came from is a mystery but there must have been plenty available judging
from the number who were
really feeling their oats......Major Bugbee and 1st/Sgt. Parkins celebrated
the glad day up in the
hills hunting partridges. They made a pretty good haul and returned in time for
dinner with their French
companion......There was a Thanksgiving Dance held at the Officer's Club
tonight which caused no
end of furor in the wee hours of the morning. Light sleepers spent a very
restless night as a
result of this dance......Lt. Bloomberg paid for nine hundred eggs in Catania
and
arrived back at Alesan
with a mere six hundred last night. Those Eyeties are shrewd operators – and at
twenty cents per egg
they couldn't be considered small time......”In the Meantime Darling” was
repeated at the Group
movie tonight......
24th
As the combat men
prepared to depart for the line the mission was called off and a stand-down
declared. No one was
very sad about the turn of events because there were many big heads from the
night before and
secondly the scheduled target was a hot one......Many of the boys particularly
the
officers were nursing
terrific hang-overs today. According to reports on the fights that took place
there
must have been plenty of
liquor available which automatically made the officers dance a
success......This makes
the third day in succession that there has been no mail whatsoever in the
Squadron. No doubt the
delay is due to Christmas packages although we have only received twelve bags
of
those thus far......Everyone
seems to be betting on the war's end and they vary from the end of the year
to next summer. However,
a lot of fellows have lost so much on bets so far that they hesitate to wager
any money on such an
uncertainty......Around eleven o'clock tonight Lt. Bloomberg was heard running
around screaming “fire”
but before help arrived his happy home was a mass of flames. The
decontamination truck
was brought up and water poured into the tent and when everything was well
soaked the last flame died.
Lt. Bloomberg claimed it to the best tent in the area, but that's only one
man's opinion. At least
he has the distinction of being the first man to lose his tent as a result of
fire
this season. There were
three other occupants who were just as sad about the whole thing as Lt.
Bloomberg, but they
suffered in silence......”The Merry Monahans” was shown at the Group movie
tonight......
25th
Stand-down was in effect
all day. We seem to be getting back to those missionless days again although
we really can't complain
as the weather on the Island has been pretty favorable in comparison to what
we had last year at this
time in Sunny Italy......The Educational program has actually started with a
class in Algebra.
However, until enrollment is completed it won't be known how successful the
project
is. If there are enough
students a class will be held in each Squadron otherwise a combined Group
class will be held. We
are told that this is only the beginning and that other subjects will be
offered
shortly......Major Rapp
made a through inspection today but his reaction is still unknown. It is said
that
he doesn't miss much so
the boys are holding their breath. All Air Corps equipment found in the wrong
hands was
confiscated......The Group band has finally chosen their new name. No one in
the orchestra
is particularly
satisfied with it, but “The Skyliners” was the most appropriate suggested.
There was
some deal whereby they
had to have a name in a hurry so it was a rapid choice. They may be getting
some new instruments and
music by submitting a name.......T/Sgt. Bills was picked up tonight after
spending nine days in
Malta without a pass. Upon returning he was ushered to the guard house where
he will await a court
martial......”The Merry Monahans” was repeated at the Group movie tonight......
26th
Magenta had the boys
really sweating this morning, but just before Squadron alert a stand-down was
declared. Showers
threatened all morning and in the afternoon we had rain lasting well into the
evening......Five planes
picked up the boys stranded in Rome for seventeen days today and a new bunch
went over for three
days. Littoria opened up sooner than expected with its new steel runway which
will
put a stop to these
unlimited passes enjoyed heretofore as a result of the field's condition. The
boys
brought back today were
more than slightly relieved to see 340th aircraft as their funds ere rapidly
decreasing. No doubt
Army finance and the Red Cross were tapped more than once during the lengthy
sojourn.......P.X.
rations were distributed today that weren't worth the bother. They rather
consisted of
fourteen packages of
“off brand” cigarettes, one tropical Hershey bar, four packages of gum and a
package of cookies. This
is the worst two week ration we've ever had, at least since leaving the desert.
It is said that all
shipping is being utilized for ammunition to the western front, but according
to recent
travelers in Naples the
shortage has had no effect on the Neapolitan black market.......In accordance
with the general practice
there was no movie presented by the 340th tonight......
27th
Another miserable, wet,
gloomy day and a stand-down that always goes with such weather. It rained
all night and morning
and for a while it looked like a recurrence of the flood disaster that befell
us over a
month ago. However, the
rain stopped later in the day and only the gloom remained with us. “Sacks”
were the most popular
spots in the area which will probably be the case for the next few
months......Last night
the orchestra played for a dance in Bastia and remained over night. The 487th
is well
represented in the Group
band and since Sgt. Barnes manages it the outfit is more like a Squadron
project......Many
vicious rumors concerning Christmas packages are circulating. Most prominent is
the one
about ours burning on
the Naples docks. If that was actually the case it will be a mighty sad day. We
hear that the boys in
Italy and France are getting theirs regularly so there must be a tie-up
somewhere.
Such inefficiency is
inexcusable particularly when the distorted facts about our “splendid” mail
service
is bally-hooed to the
sky by the American press.......The rain held off long enough to show “National
Barn Dance” at the
outdoor movie tonight.......
28th
Mission
Another rainy morning,
but the skies cleared around
mission. At 12:48 hours,
fifteen of our aircraft took off to bomb the Magenta railroad bridge in
Northern Italy. The
formation was over the designated area at 14:50 hours and released their 48,000
lb.
bomb load from 11,400
ft. with excellent results. The first box had a compact pattern on the west end
of the bridge with
direct hits observed. 2nd box believed in the same area. Heavy, moderate and
accurate anti-aircraft
fire was encountered, holing two of our ships. S/Sgt. G. H. Killen was slightly
wounded on the chin by a
piece of flak which penetrated the ship in which he was riding. No other
enemy opposition was
encountered and all planes and crews returned safely to the base......Another
day
and the eagerly awaited
Christmas packages did not make an appearance neither was there any first-class
mail at this point a
“beaucoup” delivery would do wonders for the morale of the “forgotten soldiers”
on
the Island of
Corsica......Fried chicken for supper tonight and unusually tasty......The war
news on all
fronts continues to be
good, but not good enough for most of the 340th war-weary warriors – the smash
through to final and
decisive victory is our aim, but quickly......”National Barn Dance” was
repeated at the
movies tonight.......
29th
Stand-down was in effect
all day. It was our turn to stand-down although none of the Squadrons flew
today. Unless its a
supreme effort we'll stand-down until the rest of the Group files a mission.
Most
combat men are
definightly not in favor of stand-downs because it just prolongs their overseas
tour and
funny as it may seem
almost everyone is interested in getting home......Combat crew replacements
came into the Squadron
late this afternoon and Sgt. Parkins had a hell of a time finding quarters for
them. Naturally this is
a great boost for our combat men who are rapidly approaching the seventy
mark......Coffee and
donuts were dispensed in the mess-hall this afternoon by the new Red Cross
girl.
She demanded a smile
from T/Sgt. Beadle before giving him the sinkers......Mail is at least constant
these days, it ranged
from Poco to nothing and mostly nothing. Apparently the postal authorities are
too busy getting
Christmas packages to Napoli Commandos to bother with Corsica......The Group
orchestra
has enlarged to sixteen
pieces now and can hardly keep up with its engagements. They should be
putting on their show shortly.......”Up
in Mable's Room” was shown at the Group movie tonight......
30th
Another stand-down for
this Squadron – perfect weather on the Island, but heavy rains in the vicinity
of
the target. If it's not
here it's there which means that we can't expect to get many bombing missions
in
until after the winter
months......The monotony of these missionless days is broken by the numerous
games of touch foot-ball
being played throughout the Group. Plans are now in progress for competitive
games between sections
in the Squadrons and at a later date the Squadron will vie for the Group
championship......Sgt.
Moore has endeavored to brighten the appearance of S-2 by painting the interior
of their shack with a
coat of white paint – the result: a trifle better than before......A small
delivery of
Christmas packages
arrived today in conjunction with a “poco” amount of first-class mail – not
enough to
boost morale, however
everyone is expecting the bulk of holly wrapped remembrances from home
within the next few days.
The first of a series of dances for enlisted men was held tonight at the
Enlisted
Mens Red Cross Club. The
488th Squadron was host to twenty-five Corsican belles and from all
accounts a good time was
had by all. The only draw-back was that the girls had to leave at 10:00 P.M.
which is much too early
to wind up a G.I. affair. Next week the 487th Squadron will entertain the girls
and it's hoped that we
can treat them to dinner in our mess-hall and start the dance at 6:30 thereby
giving everyone a chance
to jostle the dollies around before they return to their Mamas. “Up in
Mabel's room with
Marjorie Reynolds and Dennis O'Keefe was repeated at the movies tonight......
Transcribed by Dan
Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
[This
transcript covers December 1944 through February 1945]
December 1944
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions, etc.
Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
b. Changes in
Organization
1. First lt. George H.
Smith assigned permanent Squadron Adjutant vice Capt. Bernard M. Coyle
who was furloughed to
the Unightd States.
j. Personnel who
distinguished themselves in action.
Charles R. Klebes Jr.
Wilbur C. Lantz
Verl J. Miller
Olan B. Parrish
John E. Rapp
Bernard Bloomberg
Robert W. Brownlee
George P. Gaffney
George H. Killen
George H. Smith
The following personnel
awarded Air Medal and Clusters:
Gordon E. Butterfield
William P. Crandell
james M. Garner
James C. Holloman
Harvey M. Hyland
Robert E. MacMillen
Robert H. Martin
George S. Moule
William A. Mclaughlin
Guiseppe Serangeli
Walter J. Smith
James L. Webb
Blaise A. Azzara
William N. Baskervill
Wilbur R. Beadle
Walter T. Bielski
Eugene J. Broos Jr.
Willard A. Bruce
Marion C. Burger
Charles M. Cook
David D. Cuthbertson
Clarence L. Dillard
Richard F. Evans
Alleson J. Fornister
Harold H. Frazier
George Gregor
Dwain D. Gull
Nelson Halstead
Raymond S. Heckman
Thomas F. Hetzel
Ferrell L. Holley
Kenneth R. Hopkins
Emil F. Jettmar
Walter F. Joyce Jr.
Donald M. Kenney
William E. Krebs
Wilbur C. Lantz
Morris D. La Vine
Roger D. Lewis
John P. Mako
John C. Miller
Verl J. Miller
William E. McGriffin
Walter V. McVee
Edward W. Oviatt
Howard L. Owen
Carl A Pennock
Donald A. Peters
John Polanko
Joseph F. Quinlin
James R. Rambo
John E. Rapp
John C. Rau
Paul N. Spencer
Jesse A. Summers Jr.
Nathan G. Thomas
Howard L. Trudell
John J.S. Wisanowski
Started off the month with
a stand-down today. These stand-downs drag on everyone from ground
crew personnel to combat
men. However, the rest of the Group flew today so we'll probably have a
mission
tomorrow......F/O Polanko replaced Lt. Semenak as Squadron Athletic Officer today.
He
started off with a bang
and was out measuring off the football field this afternoon. It's also rumored
that we will have a
basketball court before long. Lt. Semenak will be leaving for the home shores
shortly.......All the
packages taht are supposed to be on the
among the mission. No
doubt we'll still be awaiting their arrival Christmas Eve.......P.R.O. informs
us
that the holiday is
going to be so gala that we wouldn't want to be home. A colossal deal must be
in the
making, but it's rather
doubtful that it will be that good......Oak leaf clusters to the D.F.C. are now
being
given out to officers on
the same basis as Air Medal clusters – so many hits comprise a
recommendation. This
automatically drags the value of the once precious medal down closer to the
Good Conduct
category......An all colored G.I. show was presented at the Red Cross Club
tonight.
Needless to say, only
half of the personnel desiring to see the show actually got to see it.
According to
those fortunates who saw
it, the show was a success and if the crowd were used as an indication,
"IT
WAS A WOW"......
2nd
Mission Documents Mantua N
RR Br
Fifteen ships of this
Squadron took off at
first box and it is
believed that the bridge was knocked out. The second box made their run over
the
alternate, but only the
first ship dropped due to radio error. Anti-aircraft fire was heavy, but
inaccurate
and all planes returned
to the base undamaged......487th is supposed to have an enlisted mens dance at
the Red Cross Club next
Thursday evening. The girls will be imported from
be limited due to the
female shortage – twenty girls in this neck of the woods is a lot of women.
488th
made a success of theirs
last Thursday so we should be able to do likewise......Major Rapp was waltzing
around the area this
afternoon attired for a dress parade. However, it was nothing of the kind, he
was
merely going to a G.I.
wedding party this evening......S-2 spends ninety-five percent of their time
these
days chopping wood. It
seems that Capt. Linthicum is afraid of a gas stove and as a result S-2 is the
only department using
wood. Thus far we've only had one accident due to gas stoves......The game of
"battle ships"
has become quite the vogue in the 487th of late, in fact the mimeograph
department can't
keep up with the demand
for blanks. They claim it's fascinating, but actually the game is a little
juvenile
for grown men. Perhaps
twenty-two months overseas has something to do with it......"Tall in the
Saddle" was
featured at the Group movie tonight. Many say it's the best western they've
ever seen.....
3rd
Mission Documents Mantua E
RR Br
Twelve bombers of the
487th Squadron took-off at
targets, Canneto railroad
bridge and Mantua East railroad bridge in
completely overshot, but
bridge was severely
damaged although still standing. Heavy enemy anti-aircraft fire was
encountered,
but due to inaccuracy no
planes were holed or damaged......Touch football teams among the different
sections are being
organized so before long we should see some pretty good football. Several boys
are
to be selected for the big
Spaghetti Bowl game to be staged on New Year's Day in
surprising the number of
fine ex-college athletes we have in the Squadron......When asked if he had just
come overseas, one new
gunner replied, "Why no, I've been over for thirty days." No doubt
his attitude
will be different after
he spends a couple of years over here because by the time he gets up there, God
only knows how many
missions will be considered a tour of combat......The 1st/Sgt. has been
vacationing in
4th
declared......Today was
rather hectic although we managed to get through it. The formal presentation of
our Presidential
citation ribbon was staged today by Gen. Cannon. No one knew anything about it
until
an hour before the
formation and when half of the subjects were notified they had but fifteen
minutes in
which to get dressed.
Ninety-five percent of the Squadron was present including officers and enlisted
men. The lack of a
tailor is quite evident in such a formation – half of the personnel look like
unmade
beds. However, in spite
of the obstacles we were out in front of Group Operations at the designated
time – no one knew the
exact time of the General's arrival, but in true Army fashion we were there an
hour ahead of time.
Generals Cannon and Knapp inspected the personnel, not too thoroughly and then
amidst a little fanfare
pinned the ribbon on the Group flag. Following the half hour ceremony the
troops marched in review
and off the field. We have been wearing the ribbon for several months, but
evidently we weren't
supposed to until now......"Shorty" Larson has another new man
working with him
now which makes a total
of three carpenters. Carpentry has risen from a one man job to a department
within the last few
months, but they always seem to have enough work for an entire division.
However,
"Shorty" will get by as long as there's at least forty nails for each
board......Bitching about
having to get ready for
the formation and more bitching after the thing was over constituted most of the
day's activities for the
487th Squadron today......."Hail Conquering Hero" was featured at the
Group
cinema tonight.......
5th
A stand-down was
declared early this morning after crews had spent the early hours preparing for
a
mission. Stand-downs around
here are no thrill because there is absolutely no place to go other than for
a nice lonesome stroll
in the hills. Some of the boys go up to the mountain towns occasionally
although there isn't
much point to it because there's nothing to do once they arrive
there......Trucks
loaded with mail bags
have been running up and down the road all day which has done wonders for the
morale. We haven't
received anything as yet, but the anticipation is sufficient for great
rejoicing......Many took
advantage of the bright day to construct additions to their tents. Before very
long every tent in the
area will be completely winterized at which time we'll probably move. Tools
would certainly be a
welcome shipment to this quarter because no more than three people can work at
a
time......A Lt. Col.
health inspector of the 12th Air Force took us by surprise this morning. He
inspected
the mess hall and
dispensary and then gave the personnel the old one two. We hope that he found
everything in inspection
order although it's hard to satisfy those operators......."Hail Conquering
Hero"
was featured at the
Group movie tonight......
6th
Another stand-down
today, the reason again was the weather. However, we enjoyed a beautiful spring
like day here on
travel guides.......Cpl.
Nelson started out the day with a bang by unloading a huge truck load of
Christmas packages. In
fact there were forty-six bags in all on the first load. Later another load of
about the same amount
came in and still later yet another two truck loads came in. Nelson was up to
his ears in mail all day
to the delight of all personnel. Everyone in the Squadron averaged about five
or
six packages a piece and
they say that the docks of
it, but it's a good
start......The Officers Club had a dance tonight which they say consisted
almost entirely
of 487th men. Immediately
following the dance all sleepers in the Squadron received a P_________
Call. One of the
celebrants, Lt. Broos faked a pistol and had everyone afraid to move by saying
he
would put a slug or two
in some poor sleeping soul's tent......No one left the Squadron today for fear
they'd miss out on the
packages. Needless to say ninety-five percent of the day was spent sweating out
packages, then opening
and sampling same......"Barbary Coast Gent" was shown at the Group
movie
tonight.......
7th
Weather over the target
area again kept all planes on the ground. It's beginning to look as if missions
will be few and far
between from here on in......The football game between pilots and clerks was
changed from
Lt. Love sustained a
fractured ankle as a result of a rough block. Bombardiers beat the Armorers, 14
to
13 in their game also
played this afternoon......Arrangements for the Squadron dinner party and dance
didn't work out as
expected, but everyone seemed to enjoy themselves anyway. The bus coming from
local belles. The steak
dinner was served in the Officers mess by G.I.'s. The dance started at
attended by
approximately twenty girls and sixty fellows. Corsicans are very poor dancers,
but
everyone managed to move
around the floor several times before ten. Coffee, donuts, sandwiches and
cookies wer served
throughout the evening in the elaborately decorated Red Cross Club (decorations
by 487th). Everything
considered a good time was had by all......Four new crews came in today. Some
difficulty in quartering
them, but everyone was well taken care of by nightfall......"Barbary Coast
Gent"
was repeated at the
Group movie tonight......
8th TOP
Stand-down today. The
entire Allied forces must be pursuing the enemy about like the 340th is
according to Allied progress.
Much money will change hands at the end of this year when the war is
still in full stride
with the "Big Three" reminding everyone that the knock-out blow is
being prepared.
Common opinion is that
the Allied strategy has turned into nothing more than a political football.
Evidently political
differences must be solved before a military victory can be effected – at least
it's
beginning to look that
way......Lt. Wheaton, who has been confined to quarters for months awaiting
Court Martial was
acquitted yesterday for insufficient evidence. The inactivity has put
considerable
weight on Lt. Wheaton so
evidently the strain was not felt too deeply......Lt. Geo. Smith, 1st/Sgt.
Parkins and the Duty
Sergeant staged an inspection of area and tents late this afternoon.
Inspections
are rapidly becoming
part of this Squadron's routine lately. The mess-hall has inaugurated a new
system for last minute
eaters in the morning. One member of the mess personnel is stationed at each
door anywhere around
infraction of fifteen
minutes would spoil the stew that seems to be so difficult to prepare and
equally as
difficult to eat. The
food put out is merely life sustaining and is certainly not worth arguing over
so
anyone missing the
breakfast is suffering no great loss......A meeting was called this morning to
warn
personnel of an expected
hurricane, but only a high wind resulted. Also covered at the meeting was the
heavy drinking taking
place among the combat men, particularly officers. Armorers were assigned to a
plane and they will now
be held responsible for the guns on that plane – that is the
armorer-gunners......"
Take it Easy" was
shown at the movie tonight......
9th
The 487th enjoyed another
stand-down today. A mission within the 340th Group these days is a rare
exception......Since the
regular football games have commenced many of the boys are running around
with bruises and limps
denoting participation. Many grunts and groans are heard in the mess-hall, and
not as a result of the
horrible food in front of them. No doubt there will be many broken bones before
the season is
over......Pvt. Coombes was brought back from
was necessary to clean
him up before departure. Major Bugbee, Lt. Hammond, 1st/Sgt. Parkins and
several other witnesses
accompanied the prisoner to
onslaught of a few days
ago. Evidently we shall have to await the arrival of a few more boats in
10th
After a long period of
idleness we finally got in a mission today when all of our twenty-one ships
participated in an
attack on the Calliano railroad bridge in
shortly after takeoff
due to mechanical failure while the rest of the formation proceeded to their
target
and successfully dropped
their bomb load from 10800'. The first box crossed railway tracks to north of
bridge. 2nd box hit the
south approach of bridge cutting tracks. Heavy, scant & inaccurate
anti-aircraft
fire was encountered,
but did no damage to our formation and all ships returned safely to the
base......More Christmas
packages came in today, but there must be a number yet undelivered as many are
complaining about not
being on the receiving end.......P.X. rations were distributed today with a
good
supply of candy and
fourteen packs of off-brand cigarettes which caused many sarcastic remarks. The
home-front can't procure
smokes because they're all going to the boys overseas and we're getting Pall-
Malls & Raleighs –
so what?.......Ideal football weather found most of the boys engaging in this
popular sport – many are
getting banged up also......Sunday night and no movie as per usual......
11th
A twelve ship mission was
scheduled this morning, but just before Squadron alert a stand-down was
declared. Weather again
spared the enemy the might of the 487th.......Another building project is
commencing in the
vicinity of the mess-hall. Members of each section have been on detail for the
last
few days although
progress is slow. No one will know what is desired until it's completed and
even
then one can't be sure
because the mess-hall has never satisfied everyone, consequently it is being
altered
regularly......The Squadron enjoyed another "Beaucoup" package
delivery today. Some of the
boys have received as
many as fifteen packages while others are still without any. It's quite evident
that
the addressee is not
considered when the bags are loaded over in
is over everyone in the
outfit will no doubt have more than enough......Extra candy and Christmas
goodies are being
requested in the Group. All of it will be donated to the children of
theirs a Merry
Christmas......Sgt. Barnes is pulling his hair out these days as the
presentation of his show
draws closer. It seems
that a large percentage of the entertainers are in the hospital. This is
particularly
true of the colored boys
as pneumonia is rampant in their outfit – more than half of the entire
organization are
hospitalized......."The Hair Ape" was shown at the movie
tonight.......
12th
Slight rain prevented
the scheduled mission from taking off. However, around
enjoyed another
spring-like day famous in
most beautiful weather
we have yet encountered during our sojourn abroad. No doubt the climate here
is similar to that of
the French Riviera, but the
area......The entourage
that accompanied Pvt. Coombes to
returned to the Squadron
this evening after spending five days in the city. Pvt. Coombes was sentenced
to twenty years behind
bars, and he got off rather easy considering the fact that they could have shot
him for the charges
against him. It will be interested to note the actual amount of time he serves.
However, its rather
doubtful that anyone will ever hear of Pvt. Coombes again......The line boys have
erected a basketball
court in the vicinity of the Engineering Office and are now playing regular
games.
An effort is being made
to build one in the area also, but little progress has been made thus
far......"The
Hair Ape" was
repeated at the Group movie tonight......
13th
Crews went out to
briefing twice this morning, but the second time a stand-down was declared for
the
remainder of the day.
The boys were quite disappointed as the supposed target was recognized as a
"milk-run"......Our
old field jackets were finally replaced by the new combat jacket today. In
addition
to the jacket we also
received a new sweater. Frankly the sweaters are not very good examples of
American merchandise
although appearance isn't very important in
vary – some don't care
for them, but all like the warmth they afford......
those who ordered it
today. The price per quart ranged from ten to fifteen dollars. Not everyone was
able to get in on the
purchase although its rumored that another hop to
the holiday......The
Group's all G.I. show performed for the first time last night at a Signal
Company a
few miles this side of
show turned out to be a
great success. All concerned have a lot of confidence now so the show should
prove to be a gala
production as it progresses......"Mazie Goes to
the Group movie tonight.
However, rain prevented that last reel from going on......
14th
Eighteen ships of the
487th took off at
formation reached the
target at
heavy, scant &
inaccurate barrage of anti-aircraft fire was encountered enroute, but no damage
was
inflicted on our
formation. All planes with bomb load intact returned safely to this
base......The
orchestra played last
night at the Red Cross Club for the 3rd Enlisted Men’s dance. This time the
boys
from Headquarters
entertained the Corsican belles and a good time was had by all......A number of
the
combat boys have completed
their tour and are eagerly awaiting the documents that will return them to
the Zone of the
Interior. However, they wait in fear that the papers won't bounce.......Hard
working
details are fast
whipping the mess-hall into a comfortable frame building and hoping that this
time the
finished product will
please the "Powers that be." The mess-hall has always been a problem
because of
the lack of material to
make a durable affair. However, when the present job is completed it should
suffice for the duration
of our stay on the
slump with a
"Poco" affair for the past four days. Many of the boys haven't
received a single Christmas
package and are berating
our illustrious Uncle Sam for inefficiency......"Mazie Goes to
repeated at the movies
tonight......
15th TOP
After two postponements,
twelve of our aircraft finally took off at
railroad bridge in
area. The first box made
four passes dropping their bomb load on the fourth pass from 9600' and
covered the right
portion and right approach of both bridges. The second box dropped on third
pass
from 9900' and covered
left approach and left portion of both bridges. No flak or other enemy
opposition was
encountered and all planes and crews returned safely to the base......A U.S.O.
troupe
presented their show
"Crazy Days" at the E.M. Red Cross at
performances played to
capacity crowds and were well received. An occasional show by our own
country-men helps to boost
morale and we should have them more frequently......The 340th Group
orchestra and show
traveled to the Quartermaster Laundry to give the boys in that section a lift –
apparently it wasn't
well advertised or the boys attached to the outfit are too "war-weary"
and beyond
the lifting stage. About
sixty men showed up to comprise an audience for a twenty-four man show.
Needless to say the
performers were disgusted – no picture was shown at he 340th tonight.....
16th
An early morning mission
was scheduled, postponed and finally abandoned in favor of a stand-down,
due to inclement weather
over the target area......Much rejoicing took place in the Squadron area this
A.M. when eight combat
men learned that their "going home" papers had finally come through –
they don't
even mind being detained
a few days for the formal presentation of merited decorations. It has been
some time since any
combat men departed for the home shores and helps considerably to boost the
morale of those working
for "relieved of assignment" papers......The Gunners #1 football team
defeated
the Clerks in a hotly
contested game – score 7-6.......Work still continues on the mess-hall and the
situation is generally
mixed up for the time being. However, the project should be completed in the
very near future with
the desired effect. In spite of handicaps, the cooks tonight served a steak
dinner –
steaks these days are a
rarity and needless to say a welcome change.......A "Beaucoup"
delivery of first class
mail arrived today, but
the bulk of Christmas packages are still among the missing......"Ghost
Catchers" starring
Olson & Johnson was presented at the Group movie tonight.......
17th
Another scheduled
mission was postponed today due to bad weather in
sunny day was enjoyed in
brisk hike......Capt.
Williams & Lt. Bloomberg left the Squadron today on the first leg of their long trip
to the States and home.
A few more will follow within the next few days. Every day brings us closer
to Christmas and many of
the boys are without a single Christmas package from home – maybe by some
stroke
of fortune they'll be in
our hands for Easter. The most provoking part of the deal is the fact that the
folks at home go to no
end of trouble to get the packages off only to be double-crossed by the Army. A
little – very little –
first-class mail came in today and although it was old mail we were glad to get
it.
No movie tonight, it
being Sunday.
18th
Stand-down all day. One
of those miserable rainy days when there's nothing to do, but stay in your
tent. A scheduled
decoration ceremony was postponed because of the continuous rain, but no one
was
disappointed. Most of
the awards are clusters to the Air Medal and combat men are reluctant to stand
at attention for
approximately 1 ½ hours to receive the little leaf. Ground men likewise see no
point in
just looking on as the
guard of honor. It would be a good deal if a new method for presenting the
awards was initiated –
something informal and less tiresome than the present system......Just about
this
time last year one of
our original combat men, S/Sgt. William E. Durie, departed for the
completing a tour of 50 missions
– today he was visiting his old buddies in the Squadron area. He is
back in the saddle again
for his second tour and is currently assigned to the 310th Group. He was
hoping for a assignment
with his first love, the 340th, but it just didn't work out that way......A
sizeable
amount of first-class
mail and a few Christmas packages came in today to brighten an otherwise dull
day......No picture was
shown tonight at the movie because of the bad weather.......
19th
Rain again recorded
another very uneventful day for the 487th Squadron. Several pleasure bound
ships
managed to get off this
morning, but the mission was cancelled. Apparently we are going in to what is
known as a Corsican
winter, which consists mainly of much rain and bleak weather. However, with a
good warm tent the
season shouldn't be too unbearable.......Rumor has it that our much discussed
Christmas packages are
now sitting over in
No doubt we'll have them
by early summer providing we're lucky......More combat men departed for
the Unightd States today
after completing their extended tour of duty. The fortunates were namely: Lts.
Crandell, Reimer, Smith,
W.J., Sgts. Bishop, Killen and Simonson. Within the next few days there
should be more to follow
because many of the combat men are nearing the end......Judging from the
Allied radio the German
counterattack on the western front is reaching quite serious proportions. They
claim it to be the
fiercest action taken by the enemy since the
gained back some more
ground and
end for many months.
It's amazing how the what we thought to be destroyed German Army can rally
and deal us such a
devastating blow. Perhaps the war should have been over before they had the
chance to regroup if it
weren't for the great power politics concerned......Again tonight the movie was
cancelled due to
inclement weather......
20th
Today was just one
continuous onslaught of rain. No planes were able to takeoff and none were able
to
land, consequently the
boys in
started again today had the
boys been able to take off, but that was also discontinued in favor of the
weather. From all
indications it will be some time before the weather clears sufficiently to
allow air
transportation although
the Squadron today as
the majority of the personnel spent the day in their sack or very close to it.
A
rain soaked tent is very
uncomfortable to work in and anyone who can postpone their work is likely to
do so on such a day. Some
of the boys remained in their tents all day and didn't even bother to come
out for chow – that is
those who were fortunate enough to have Christmas food......No mail whatsoever
came in today and we're
still without the majority of our Christmas packages to say nothing of back
mail.
No doubt Easter will
find us still sweating out Christmas packages......The mess-hall remains in the
incompleted stage,
making it extremely uncomfortable during these rainy days......"Crime by
Night"
was shown at the Red
Cross Enlisted Men’s Club tonight. This was the first time a show was held at
the
Club and it worked out
pretty well.......
21st
Rain continued today
with a drenching intensity. The Squadron area resembles the ground surrounding
a swollen river – the
ground is hard and doesn't absorb water, consequently the rain forms huge
puddles
and runs through the
hilly area like a natural waterfall. Very little stirs until chow time and then
G.I's
present a bleak picture
running to and from the mess-hall in their various and sundry water repellent
costumes. Only time will
tell, but it looks now as though the rain will never stop......This marks the
third consecutive day
without mail although judging from past performances the rain has no effect on
mail services – it's
never good rain or shine. Many of the boys are still without Christmas packages
which is almost uncanny
at the late date, but it certainly looks as though very little effort if any,
is being
made to expedite
matters. No doubt Christmas Day will find us still wondering where our gifts
are......The carpenters
were about the only people who worked today and they continued with the
messhall
construction. According
to rumor the Squadron will move to
fifteenth of next month
which would be apropos of the completion of the mess-hall......Forty-five
fellows in the Squadron
have signed up for the resident Algebra class which is to begin as soon as the
books arrive. If the
text books take as long as mail does to wend its way to the
commence some time in
September 1945......There was no movie shown in the Group tonight as a dance
was held at the Red
Cross Club and rain prevented an outdoor showing........
22nd TOP
The lull in operations
was broken this morning when eighteen bombers of the 487th Squadron took off
to bomb Lavis railroad
bridge and Chiari railroad bridge in
but a heavy haze
prevented observations although it is believed that the bombs landed within the
target
area. One ship was holed
as a result of the scant anti-aircraft fire. 7V was forced down at
before going over the
target as a result of engine trouble......After three days of rain it was a
relief to see
the sun today. However,
it was cold and quite miserable as the dampness remained with us. As soon as
the rain stopped
everyone who found that their tent leaked during the deluge was out making the
necessary
repairs......Sgt. Barnes nearly lost his mind tonight trying to locate
transportation for his band
who was playing for the
grand opening of the new enlisted men's club at Wing. They arrived late, but
nevertheless in time for
a gala opening......The mess-hall is now practically completed, even to the
paint
on the walls. They were
striving to have it finished by Christmas, but it's rather doubtful that the
change will improve the
taste of the food although it is definightly more comfortable......."Our
Hearts
Were Young and Gay"
was shown at the outdoor movie tonight.......
23rd
Eighteen crews went out
for briefing and to the planes this morning, but a stand-down was declared just
before take-off time.
Weather today was rather nondescript – it looked like rain this morning, but
before
White Christmas anyone
might have had. The mountains are well covered with snow, but clouds
deprive us of the effect......Christmas
packages came in yesterday and also this evening. Apparently the
folks at home aren't
aware of our daily menus over here because many of the boys received Spam and
the famous Vienna
Sausages. Lt. Polanko was the happy recipient of four lovely cans of the Angels
food......EM were
completely befuddled this evening when they gazed down the tables to see
Chapman and Lt. Kienle
enjoying a D.I. supper. Whether he knew it or not Col. Chapman sort of
christened our new
mess-hall......Two ships left for
Christmas in the
attend
permits......Volunteer
details have been busy the last two evenings decorating the mess-hall with pine
trees and holly.
However, the Christmas spirit isn't very prevalent among the Squadron
members......"Our
Hearts Were Young and Gay" was repeated at the Group movie tonight......
24th
The day before Christmas
and all is well except the weather. Rain continued throughout the day
although it cleared up
by evening and nothing remained but the puddles. The regular Sunday services
were about the only
thing that drew the men from their tents. However, many of the boys volunteered
to decorate the
mess-hall which was very nicely done. One large Christmas tree adorned the
center of
the room decorated with
cotton, chaff and lights. There were also holly wreaths and pine branches in
each window. A lot of
hard work was put into the assignment and it was excellently done......Packages
and a little mail came
in this evening which needless to say was a good morale factor. We are still a
way behind on the
Christmas packages although the last few days have brought forth more than we
actually expected to
receive before the holiday......The Officers Club was open this afternoon and
ninety-five percent of
the officers were showing the effect of the good liquor being served. However,
everyone managed
themselves very well......Christmas Eve turned out to be quite eventful – at
"Sunday Dinner for
a Soldier" was shown to the enlisted men in the Squadron mess-hall.
Following
the movie, ice-cream,
cookies and coffee were served to everyone. It's hard to believe, but there was
actually so much
ice-cream that after everyone had had all they could possibly eat a
considerable
amount was thrown away.
The ice-cream was made for us by the Red Cross in
excellent, but just too
much......A mid-night Mass was celebrated at the Red Cross Enlisted Man's Club
for all Catholic men.
The turnout was amazing considering all the activity that preceded the holy
hour.......In spite of
the great effort put forth by the Squadron, it is the sincere hope of all that
this will
be the last holiday
celebrated by the 487th Squadron abroad.......
25th
Christmas day was
greeted in the Squadron this morning with an excellent fresh fried egg
breakfast
served from
The cooks really worked
hard and their efforts were well rewarded by the enthusiasm shown by every
man in the organization.
Ground officers were the guests of the enlisted men in their new mess-hall.
No one could complain of
not having enough as mess-kits were unable to carry the burden of turkey,
oyster dressing, fresh
mashed potatoes, green beans, fruit salad, pickles, mince pie, cheese, and
coffee.
The only complaint was
that everyone ate entirely too much......Many of the boys saved their
scotch for the occasion
and the results were quite active. "Dutch" Huyser had apparently
consumed
much liquor before
dinner time as he was considerably under the weather – more so than we've ever
seen "Dutch"
before. A favorite trick of the drinking enlisted men seems to be greeting the
"wheels" –
It's always good for a
laugh......Lts. Cline and Lewis were slightly wounded in a jeep accident this
morning as a result of
too much Christmas cheer. The jeep was pretty well incapacitated although the
men suffered nothing but
a colorful loss of blood........S/Sgt. Bill Burie, a former 487th Squadron
combat man presently
with the 310th spent the day with us. He left the Squadron shortly after
Christmas last year and
has recently returned to this theater for a second tour with the 310th......Too
much celebration made
for a very quiet Squadron area this evening – most of the boys slipped into the
sack at a very
reasonable hour. No doubt too, some of the boys spent the evening reflecting
back on the
folks at home, praying
that they would be able to join them for the next Christmas celebration......
26th
Strictly an operational
day and seventeen bombers of this Squadron took off to bomb
railroad bridge in
boxes although a radio
malfunction caused the third box to freak bomb five miles from the target.
Anti-aircraft fire was
light, scant and inaccurate causing no damage to the participating aircraft.
Some
crew members disagreed
as to the accuracy of the bomb pattern, but that's not unusual and the photos
will tell the true story
tomorrow.......There were more washouts in the Squadron Christmas than there
were today due to the
fact that most of the liquor was consumed Christmas Eve. However, some
hangovers
were deep rooted enough
to last several days – naturally a few have sworn off liquorous bevrages
for life. It seems that
regardless of the location such proclamations always follow a holiday......Lt.
Love is back in the
Squadron now limping around in a foot cast. He broke his ankle several weeks
ago
in an active "touch
football" game.......Major Bugbee, Sgts. Barnes and Olson departed for
today to attend a
Special Service Show Convention being held for three days at
them to return full of
ideas on G.I. entertainment abroad.......Two ships returned from
evening with the boys
who had spent Christmas in the
their lives at the
anything so those of us
who spent Christmas on
However, the boys did
enjoy their dinner at the G.I. restaurants in the
Christmas packages came
in again today and this evening. After all the moaning that took place about
the Christmas packages
before Christmas the same amount is going on now as to what can be done
with them. With so many
coming in at one time it's difficult to adjust yourself to the onslaught. One
can really enjoy a piece
of candy in public now as everyone else has more than they can handle
themselves......"Step
Lively" was shown at the Red Cross Club this evening. No one swooned when
Frank Sinatra appeared
on the screen, however.......
27th
Early alert this morning
for eighteen crews to bomb Borovinica railroad
Viaduct in
of the target and cloud
cover, only one box dropped their bombs and it is believed that this pattern
landed within the target
area. Opposition was nil and all ships returned safely to the
base......Approximately
sixty bags of Christmas packages came into the Squadron during the day.
About now everyone is so
sick and tired of looking at fruit cakes and the like that interest in packages
has dwindled. However,
there'll be a day when all these goodies will come in mighty handy providing
the boys have sense
enough to hold on to them for that rainy day. S/Sgt. Truman Thompson has the
title of receiving the
most novel gift thus far received in the Squadron – it was two packages
containing
rag dolls for
distribution to the neighborhood children. We are now eagerly awaiting the
arrival of the
first class mail we
haven't been receiving for the past month......Two choice films were shown in
the
"Rialto
Theater" (mess-hall) this afternoon to a record breaking crowd of G.I.'s –
reason being that it
was compulsory. One of
the pictures dealt with the ever prominent sex problem. The sex film was
corny although new to
most of us, but the Articles of War never vary......"Step Lively" was
repeated at
the Group movie
tonight......
28th
Twelve bombers of this
Squadron went back to Borovinica railroad Viaduct this morning,
but all bombs were
returned due to cloud coverage. Lt. Klebes led the formation and said that
everywhere was clear
excepting the area directly over the target. No doubt they'll go back to
Borovnica within the
next few days......Two deliveries of first-class mail came in today –
one "beaucoup"
and the other very "poco." If the mail situation ever gets
straightened out it will be
quite an accomplishment.
Perhaps if anything comes of that rumored move to
off as far as the mail
is concerned among other things......"Relieved of Assignment" orders
came
through for many of the
combat boys today and not fifteen minutes after they arrived preparations for
departure commenced.
Supply was like a bedlum with both officers and enlisted men turning in
equipment as most of
them expect to leave in the morning. Absolutely nothing overshadows the
enthusiasm of a man
preparing to depart from his unit. Very few enlisted ground personnel have had
that pleasure, however, and
it doesn't look as if they're going to for a long time. It's also quite obvious
that little is being
done toward this end......Lt. Cline received his orders to go home today, but
he will
be detained until his
accident of Christmas day is settled. Perhaps he'll think twice before over
indulging the next
time......A new crew as added to the 487th Happy Family this afternoon. Combat
crews greeted the new
arrivals like long lost relatives......"
Club tonight......
29th
Mission Documents Pordenone
RR Br
Favorable weather again
today permitted eighteen bombers of this Squadron to take off for the fourth
consecutive mission.
They were over their target of
bridge was knocked out
as a result of this successful attack. The flight escaped all opposition and
all
planes returned safely
to the base......Sgt. Fuiks, Squadron Public Relations clerk, has another new
man
working with him now.
T/Sgt. Wohlkamp, who formerly had the job is now holding forth in the
Orderly Room. The new
man, S/Sgt. Lowe, is fresh from the States and really getting his teeth into
the
work. Too bad there
isn't more new talent to release the war weary members of this
organization......More
packages and mail came into the Squadron tonight and were distributed shortly
after supper. We still
have plenty of undelivered mail to look forward to – all the Christmas packages
haven't made their
appearance as yet either......Pvt. A.D. Rice has changed his abode to a
pup-tent
outside the
communications tent upon orders from the Orderly Room. No doubt he'll be
walking a tour
with a sack of rocks on
his back tomorrow. No one is quite sure of his misdemeanor, but it's rumored
that he refused to get
up for a bomb load......High winds this afternoon and evening were almost
threatening to our
little canvas city. There is nothing more uncomfortable than a tent in a high
wind......"
30th
Mission Documents Calliano
RR Brs Crema (alt); Calliano #2 clouded
Two elements of B-25/s
took off this morning at
Crema Railroad bridge.
However, the pattern missed it's target and landed in the marshaling yards to
the west. Two ships of
this formation were holed as a result of anti-aircraft fire. The second element
of
six ships bombed
Calliano #1 railroad bridge, but the bomb pattern was unobserved and no one
would
estimate the accuracy.
Three ships were holed out of this element. One man
from another Squadron
was brought back dead from
the raid this afternoon......It's beginning
to look as though we'll never see
the end of Christmas
packages. More came in this afternoon and were distributed this evening. First
class
mail is still at a
premium.......Pvt. Rice was walking his punishment tour in front of the Orderly
Room this afternoon when
his 2nd Lt. brother appeared on the scene. It seems that Rice knew his
brother had arrived in
the Theater, but wasn't aware of the exact location. No doubt it was a little
embarrassing to have to
entertain in a pup-tent......Lt. Snaper left the Squadron yesterday on an
emergency furlough. It
seems that his father is about to undergo a serious eye operation. Although it
was only an emergency we
don't expect to see Lt. Snaper again. Several combat men also departed for
the States today after
completing their tour of duty......Lts. Cormack and Evarts were elevated to the
wearing of the silver
today. Promotions for the officers is rather automatic so it never comes as a
very
great surprise......Lt.
Van Etten departed for home this morning after completing fifty-three missions
and a bout with the
Medical board at
from the Special Service
Convention at
production on nothing
but the idea. At least the Committee composed of four officers and one
captain tried to explain
the procedure. No doubt the enthusiastic five could make millions if they could
portray the same idea to
professional theater men, providing it worked. Sgt. Barnes didn't seem to be
too impressed......There
was no 340th show tonight due to lack of a film......
31st
New Years Eve and all
were sober, at least in the morning. Twelve ships of the Squadron took off this
morning to bomb Revereto
railroad bridge in
dropping their bombs
with precision accuracy. The first box crossed the north approach cutting the
tracks and the second
box extended across the central portion of the bridge with direct hits
observed.
Heavy, intense and
accurate anti-aircraft fire harassed the formation holing 11 out of the 12
participating airplanes,
however, no one was injured......A pleasant day was enjoyed by all on
today. It's rather
unusal during this season, but the sun was actually shining. However, strong
winds
which developed into a
gale late this afternoon swept the area through the evening......Celebration of
New Year was limited
this season due mainly to the complete lack of anything to celebrate with or
over.
At this time last year
we were in the same boat and the location is about the only thing that's
changed
throughout '44. However,
the supply Section took it upon themselves to procure liquor from
the festivities – the
stock consisted of five hundred dollars worth of Italian whiskey, Gin and
Cherry
Brandy, better known as
"poison." And judging from the number of firearms discharged at
stuff produced the
desired effect. Most of the firing that took place in this Squadron was up on
the
knob (combat crew area
on the hill) although combat men weren't the only ones intent on noise
making. Big guns were
heard firing in the distance, but other than that little was done to welcome in
the New Year. "Up
In Mable' Room" was shown in the Squadron mess-hall as a part of the New
Year
Celebration. Most of the
show-goers had already seen it so the audience was limited to very
few......The Officers
Club had a dance this evening which put a few officers of this Squadron in the
festive mood. Lts.
Azarra and Dearborn returned from the ball around
up the entire Squadron
area to wish them well in the New Year. The gesture wasn't too well
received......It's
rather general, but nonetheless true that not many will be able to display any
great
enthusiasm until the
home going date is before them -LET'S HOPE THAT 1945 WILL
HAPPY
January 1945
[Transcriber's note: Some entries
are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
i. Losses in Action
1. Missing in action in
raid over Trento Marshaling Yards in
1. 1st Lt. Morris D. La
Vine
2. 2nd Lt. Stanley J.
Gluczkowski
3. F/O Paul R. Farone
4. S/Sgt. George Gregor
5. S/Sgt. Joel B. Mayer
6. Sgt. Jesse A. Summers
Jr.
2. Wounded in action in
raid over San Margherita N. Railroad Bridge in
15, 1945
1. Sgt. Robert W. White
2. 1st Lt. Harold H.
Frazier
j. Personnel who have
distinguished themselves in action.
1. Eugene J. Broos Jr.
2. Edwin P. Bugbee
3. Wayne R. Carter
4. Harold H. Frazier
5. Carl Genian
6. Ferrell L. Holley
7. Gene Metz
8. James J. Connolly
The following flying personnel
of this organization have been awarded Air Medals and Clusters there
to for the period
covered.
Bernard Albert
Walter Allor Jr.
Dominic Angelini
James W. Austin Jr.
Wilbur R. Beadle
Theodore J. Bennett
Wildore Bousquet
Eugene J. Broos Jr.
Willard A. Bruce
Noble H. Byars
Robert W. Carlson
Gerald W. Carstensen
Edwin C. Clothier
Hubert Conwill
Luke J. Crosby
David D. Cuthbertson
James R. Dempsey
Donald C. Dick
James C. Dinkler
John H. Downs
Myron E. Erickson
Richard F. Evans
Edgar E. Evarts
Stewart Farnham
Harold H. Frazier
Charles F. Fredericks
Jr.
Pierre P. Garvin
Carl Genian
George Gifford
Robert N. Gist
Dwain D. Gull
Willian D. Hale
Nelson Halstead
Werner M. Hartman Jr.
James V. Heming
Keneth R. Hopkins
Kenneth W. Hovermale
Romeo J. Ingley
Frank L. Jones
Walter F. Joyce Jr.
Christy M. Kara
Herman H.W.
Charles R. Klebes Jr.
David Konigsberg
Francis J. La Pierre
Morris D. La Vine
John E. Leatherwood
William A. Lee Jr.
Robert E. Lehmkuhl
Guy L. Lewis
Julius Lieberman
Bryant O. Lyons
Charles A Maliszewski
Joel B. Mayer
Marlan J. Michel
John C. Miller
Wesley J. Mummert
Paul E. McDonnel
Paul S. McMillen
Walter V. McVee
James M. Oaks
John Polanka
Clifford J. Ramsey
John H. Ramsey
John C. Rau
Frank N. Reynolds
Arthur H. Rigdon
James A. Robb
Thomas P. Rosemarin
Robert F. Rushton
Paul E. Sekeras
Roy A. Simmons
Marvin H. Smith
David C. Solether
George R. Stejakal
Jessee A. Summers
Frank L. Thibault
Joseph F. Thornsberry
Robert M. Trollinger
Howard L. Trudell
John J.S. Wisanowski
Ralph L. Woods
John J. Zugibe
War Diary
New Years Day found the
487th Squadron just about the same as it is on any other day. Breakfast was
served from seven-thirty
to eight-thirty – fresh fried eggs. The traditional turkey dinner was served at
3
o'clock and some thought
it was better than the Christmas meal. Little or no work was done today, in
fact none of the
departments were open for business. A stand-down had been declared last night.
Surprisingly there was
little drinking today which is perhaps due to the fact that there was no liquor
available. It might be
said that a very sane holiday was enjoyed by all......Lt. Eustis was around
bidding
everyone a fond adieu
this morning just before boarding a plane to
the Unightd States. It's
kind of funny seeing him go because Lt. Eustis had become more or less of a
permanent fixture around
here......We hear that Lt. Hammond likened himself to an airplane at the
Officers club last night
and after running across the room with arms extended, the small Lt. wound up
disastrously in the
prone position on the floor......Many rumors are now floating around concerning
the
ever prominent topic of
HOME. The latest has us following the 319th for a thirty day furlough at home
and another tour in the
Pacific. It sounds good, but anything pertaining to home is music to our
ears.......No show was
given at the Group movie tonight due to the high wind. We understand that the
Colonel will not permit
the movie to be presented at the Red Cross Club because of the damage done
during the first
experiment........
2nd
Early alert this
morning, but before take-off time came around a stand-down was declared. The
field
was closed to all
aircraft all day today due to the intensity of the wind. It actually approached
the gale
category and everyone
sat wondering just how much longer their tent was going to stand the strain.
Emily, of the Red Cross
was down to tell us that the wind had already taken her tent from its
anchorage. She was
wearing two pair of pajamas under slacks with a heavy winter flying jacket and
still claimed to be
frozen......Lt. Kienle left for the States today where he will attend gunnery
school for
a period of thirty days.
Upon his return he will become Squadron Gunnery Officer which is a newly
made title, although it
has provided two men the opportunity to get home......Lack of activity has
brought forth many good
rumors although none of them have any official background. The one about
following the 319th is
the best, but even the one about leaving the
still wondering when we
are going to be honored with a quantity of first class mail. Evidently we have
received just about all
the packages we're going to get. Sometimes it looks as though mail is held up
purposely to promote
"bitching" and if that is the case it certainly accomplishes its
purpose......A movie
was scheduled at the
487th mess-hall this evening, but at the last minute for some unknown reason it
was cancelled. Evidently
there are going to be no more outdoor performances......
3rd
Mission Documents Lavis RR
Viaduct
Lavis railroad Viaduct
up in
were over the Viaduct at
dropped to the right of
the wet span while the second pattern crossed the wet span. Anti-aircraft fire
was out of range,
however, it did reach other elements of the formation. No damage to 487th
aircraft
resulted.......This last
week of almost continuous operation has added considerably to the number of
combat boys completing
their tour. If the situation continues we'll need new crews or just have to
cease
operation.......In spite
of all the rumors about us going home and to
continues daily. The new
tables have been completed right down to the burning which produces that
antiqued effect. Even
the concrete floor has been repaired so there really isn't much if anything to
be
done. However,
regardless of how fine the mess-hall is there is someone who can always find a
finishing touch to be
added. This is without a question of a doubt the best mess-hall we've ever
had......News from the
Western front is anything but encouraging these last few days and '45
predictions
are enough to frighten
the pessimists. It is now hoped by high officials that victory in
outs this year. Opinions
vary so on the German break-through efforts that the ordinary person is at a
total loss as to what
the strategy is. Some still say it's political complications rather than
military......Planes
took off for
enjoy a sojourn in the
cities. Most of the boys asking for leave in
who they became
acquainted with while the Squadron was stationed at
various reasons – the
most common being women......There was no movie presented by the 340th
tonight......
4th
Mission Documents Ala (Trento)
RR Br
time. One ship was holed
by the heavy, moderate and accurate anti-aircraft fire encountered over the
primary......Sgt.
"Greg" Moore went down to the Wing this afternoon for a conference
with a "Stars and
Stripes" reporter.
Evidently the Groups in this Wing are finally going to get some publicity. They
may
be able to use some of
Sgt. Moore's fine oils and pastels depicting combat formations and other phases
of our tour in the
combat zone........A large award presentation ceremony took place with many of
our
men being decorated this
afternoon. The ceremony took place in the Red Cross Club rather than
outside which eliminated
the Honor Guard much to the satisfaction of all concerned. Most of the boys
being decorated would
just as soon or rather be issued their awards at Supply, however, the Army
considers the ceremony a
great morale factor......The first Algebra session convened last night. Out of
the entire Group there
were twenty-five tentative students, twenty-two of which were 487th men, which
is a good indication
that the 487th is the most aggressive if not the most intelligent. Capt.
Linthicum
swears by the text and
thinks that the boys will get a lot out of it. Capt. Oliver is teaching the
course......."My
Gal Likes Music" with Bob Crosby was shown in our own "
5th
Rain hampered operations
today and probably gave another German held bridge in
another day's grace.
When it rains here there is no doubt in anyone’s mind as to what's goin on
because
it's just a steady
downpour. No one leaves their tent for anything less than a meal and most of
the time
that isn't much of an
inducement. The Squadron area being situated on a hill is extremely vunerable
to
a heavy rain and during
the storm one is reminded of a natural waterfall as the water surges through
the
area. Around supper time
the rain turned into huge hail stones reminding everyone of the Vesuvius
performance, but
fortunately it didn't last long enough to do any harm. However, at the time
tents were
as tight as drums and it
was feared the hail may rip them. This will be a fine day to look back on when
we're enjoying all the comforts
of home......Several combat men were prepared to leave for
today, but they waited
in vain as the field remained closed all day. With those precious papers in
their
hand they shouldn't
worry too much though as it's bound to clear someday. Fellows on pass in
are also enjoying an
extended vacation due to the weather.......There was no movie tonight and
probably
even if there were one,
it wouldn't be good enough to draw the men out of hibernation........
January 6th
Rain was again the most
prominent thing of the day. If it wasn't raining at the moment it looked like
it
was about to,
consequently the squadron remained pretty well closed up. All planes remained
on the
ground and none landed
as the field is closed which does have its advantages for the boys stranded
over
on the mainland.
However, it isn't so good for the men awaiting transportation to
"relieved of
assignment" papers......Mail is also at a complete stand-still, probably
due to the weather
conditions. However,
when the weather is good and the mail is slow we hear it comes in by boat then
on occasions like this
it's supposed to come from the mainland by air. We could use a little
first-class
mail about now after
this long period of total absence.......Henceforth
the outfit will be known as "The
Dogface Squadron." It
seems that PRO sent a photo of our "Uncle Willie" over to
famed Bill Mauldin got a
hold of it. He was so impressed that he has offered to come over and paint
our aircraft with
different characters depicting subjects from his cartoons. His arrival was
scheduled
two days ago, but the
non-flying weather has delayed the program. No doubt much publicity will come
of this escapade......An order went up on the bulletin board today asking volunteer
Infantry Officer
Candidates. No one
showed any particular interest, however......There was no movie shown at the
Group tonight due to the
weather.......
487th ‘Dog face’ Squadron
Documentation
487th Squadron 7F “Willie” ‘Dog face Squadron’
487th
‘Dog face’ Squadron B-25 Planes
487th ‘DOG FACE’ Squadron Video!!! (Uploaded
Unedited version with no scenes cut
January 7th
The Squadron woke up
this morning to more rain, but before
were preparing to
take-off for
to leave for home took
off today. Evidently
stranded boys were able
to return – one more day added to their already extended sojourn in the Italian
Capitol. The boys in
showers have been out of
order for several days. Apparently the weather affects the heating apparatus
as it ceases operation
during and following every rain storm.......Pvt. Bills, formerly T/Sgt. Bills
(before
an extended leave in
in the 340th Bomb.
Gp........Lt. Evans and Lt. Joyce are on a five day rest leave in
Joyce has a girl friend
over there – he met her while on DS in
love......Arrangements
are now being made for the entire band to spend a ten day leave in
date of departure is not
yet definight......Movies are still extinct in the 340th Group......
8th TOP
Crews were alerted this
morning three times before being briefed for a 1300 hours take-off. Six planes
of this Squadron were to
participate in the raid with three chaff ships, but the target was changed to
Pontetidone railroad
bridge and the chaff eliminated. However, a complete cloud coverage obscured
Pontetidone and all planes
returned with their bombs – delayed action bombs were jettisoned in the sea.
By the time the mission
arrived back at the field a fifty mile an hour cross wind was sweeping the
runway making landings
uncomfortable to say the least. Credit for a mission was given although no
enemy opposition was
encountered......Some of the boys were able to get back from
although there wasn't
enough room for everyone stranded over there. Another plane will probably go
over tomorrow to pick up
the remainder of the Commandos......Fourteen bags of packages came in this
morning which relieved
the monotony, but it's a little late to be getting Christmas packages. They
really
should have been in long
ago according to newspaper talk. We are still mystified as to the whereabouts
of our first-class
mail......Col Bailey was supposed to come back from
which is quite
perturbing to "SKYLINER" personnel. The only thing that's holding
them up on the
must be experiencing the
sensation now......."One Body Too Many" was shown in the 487th
mess-hall
this evening. The
convenience of this gesture is appreciated in the Squadron particularly when
it's too
cold to sit though a
movie out in the open.......
9th
Six 487th bombers took
off shortly after
favorable to good
bombing and no opposition was encountered. All planes returned safely to the
base......A
"poco" amount of first-class mail was dispersed this morning followed
this afternoon by the
same proportion of
misguided packages and newspapers. All mail is so screwd up now that no one can
maintain a coherent
correspondence.......It seems that our move to the mainland has been postponed
again. We were scheduled
to depart from
March. Rumor has it that
that move will be to the States......Cpl. Frank Nasuto is in the midst of
building another barber
shop in the center of the Squadron area. Time always encourages
improvement......Anyone
going to
City will be issued.
Reason for this unpleasant move is still forth-coming......There was no movie
shown in the Group
tonight......
10th
Eighteen crews were out
at Group briefing this morning when a stand-down was declared. The
weather on the
anyone's mind that the
Corsican winter has finally and definightly set in. Much gas is being consumed
daily and tents are
still cold. With gas stoves in every tent the number of gallons burned per day
in the
Squadron must be
tremendous. No doubt the people at home with their "A" coupons would
be envious
of our stove fuel.......A
fairly good amount of first-class mail came in today making it our first
sizeable
delivery in quite some
time.......Airplane guard started again tonight. It seems that the security
unit that
has been with us is
being transferred off the
nightly guard is
anything but pleasant particularly during the winter. Needless to say 1st/Sgt.
Parkins
didn't get much response
in the mess-hall at supper time looking for volunteers. The only pleasant
outlook is that it may
be a prelude to the elimination of the 57th Wing. Rumors are still afloat that
the
Wing will be broken up
and sent home in the near future. This is the first airplane guard we've pulled
in over eight months,
although previous to that we were thoroughly experienced.......The remainder of
the boys who were
spending a happy holiday in
they certainly didn't
miss much by being away.......A nightly movie is still missing from the Group's
activities......
11th
Crews got no farther
than briefing when a stand-down was declared. Communications must be quite
bad when such messages
can't get though before the last minute. Weather here, although cold looked
like a perfect
operational day, but the target area was completely obscured by
cloud.......Everyone spent
the day sweating out the
guard roster which didn't appear until the afternoon. Fifteen men beginning
with the T/Sgts. were chosen
to do the honors with Lt. Broos as O.D. and S/Sgt. Stahlman as Sergeant
of the guard. There was
a certain amount of humor connected with the innovation in spite of the sad
outlook. The way the
system is set up at present every man in the organization will pull guard at
least
every three
weeks......The Squadron has fallen heir to six more Yugoslavs. No doubt jobs
will be found
for each and everyone of
them, but right now one would wonder just where they could be placed. The
kitchen can always
absorb any number of men – the motor pool may also get several. It's too bad
that
they can't be used for
guard duty.......After several months of wood chopping they finally persuaded
Capt. Linthicum to
consent to a gas stove. The conversion took place today after much scrounging
for
the necessary
parts.......Public Relations Office is trying hard to get Sgt. "Greg"
Moore for his
capabilities as an
artist. Evidently "Greg" can't handle two jobs and he isn't
interested in going into
Public Relations work as
a steady diet. It will be interesting to see who wins......."None But The
Lonely Heart" was
shown in the Squadron mess-hall tonight. Opinions varied considerably on the
picture's merits
although Ethel Barrymore doesn't possess the physical attractions to make her a
hit with
the ordinary
G.I........Group Special Service is running the pictures at different Squadrons
nightly
eliminating the regular
Group movie......
12th
A stand-down was in
effect all day due again to the weather. Rain threatened all day and came down
in
spurts from time to
time, but it wasn't until evening that the deluge started. Huge hail stones
came first
followed by continuous
rain. The surrounding mountains are now almost covered to the base with snow
making it quite
picturesque and ever colder......A meeting of all section chiefs was called
this evening at
pertained to the new
guard set up. Plans are quite complete and it looks as though everyone will
have
their opportunity to
pull plenty of guard. The tour will last for three days and seventeen men will
be
included in each tour –
a minimum of sixteen hours guard will be stood throughout the three day period.
According to the present
plan no one will be excused regardless of their rank or duty and M/Sgts. will
pull Group Sergeant of
the Guard. A one day pass will be granted at the end of the tour. The Colonel
has said that no
security unit can be expected in for some time and that this set-up will last for
a
minimum of two months.
Under the present system the soldier will have no other duty while pulling
his shift of guard. If
the policy is maintained as it's supposed to be there should be no kick coming
as it
is the fairest way of
accomplishing a distasteful task.......Last nights dinner and dance proved to
be quite
a success. The Corsican
girls seem to be warming up and getting acquainted. Col. Chapman and
Major Rapp joined the
diners in the Enlisted Men’s Mess. Evidently our food isn't as bad as we think
or
else the situation is
general throughout the Group......
13th
Crews were dressed and
ready for a mission this morning, however, as they were preparing to leave the
Squadron area for
briefing a stand-down was declared. The sky appeared to be quite clear on the
Island, but evidently
master weather reporter
to predict Corsican weather for more than a fifteen minute duration. Today
started out with
sunshine, then came showers followed by a steady downpour for the entire
night......Several bags
of packages and newspapers came in late this afternoon. "Nelson" was
the only
one that was displeased
with the delivery.......The band is still awaiting word on their
Bailey is back, but thus
far has not given a definight date. Sgt. Barnes was expecting to leave Monday
although the aspect at
present doesn't look very promising......S/Sgt. Stahlman was relieved as
Sergeant
of the Guard tonight as
his orders came through this afternoon. The happy Sgt. will be departing for
home whenever weather
permits takeoff......A U.S.O. show called the "Novelaires" appeared
at the Red
Cross Club tonight
followed by the motion picture "Rhapsody In Blue." A capacity crowd
enjoyed both
performances.....
14th
Heavy rains which
continued all night and morning put the "skids" on a scheduled
mission for this
morning. The downpour
was so heavy that very few even bothered to get out of the sack for breakfast.
The rain ceased about
the entire day......Lt.
Snaper who departed for the States on an emergency furlough last week was today
promoted to the rank of
1st. Lt. Kienle who is also enroute to the States was elevated to the rank of
Captaincy.......Wholesale
promotions were published for Enlisted combat crew men who have been
sweating out their
ratings for sometime – ground crew personnel have been entirely forgotten in
this
respect......The new
guard set-up went into full swing today with a formal inspection of the guard
at
must guard the areas,
but everyone is in hopes that the idea will peter out shortly as it only adds
to the
misery of the
"lonely watch"......Latest rumor has it that we will be paid in
American currency at the
end of February – all of
which strengthens the rumor that we are "marked" for the Zone of
Interior in
the not too distant
future.......No show at the 340th tonight, it being Sunday.
15th TOP
A respite in weather
enabled the 487th Squadron to get in a mission today. At
our ships, three of
which comprised a phosphorus and chaff element, took off to bomb a railroad
bridge
at San Margherita in
released their bomb load
very effectively on the objective. The 1st box bombed a bridge immediately
north of the target
crossing the road bridge. 2nd box bombed Margherita south rail bridge with good
results. The chaff
element encountered a heavy, moderate and accurate barrage of anti-aircraft
fire
from known position in
the vicinity of the target – shell fragments slightly wounded Lt. Frazier.
However, it was a
"milk-run" for the main bombing formation. All planes and crews
returned safely to
the home base......Doris
Duke Cromwell accompanied General Knapp to the interrogation after the
mission.......Lts.
Martin, McMillen, Semenak and Moule also S/Sgt. Stahlman left today for
a boat which will return
them to the Zone of Interior. S/Sgt. Campo who also had his "relieved of
assignment" papers
asked for permission to stay on for two weeks and wait for his pal S/Sgt.
Handel
who is sweating out this
relief.......Capt. Linthicum is feeling very much like a "king of the
roost" these
days with a Yugoslav chore
boy who busies himself chopping wood, drawing water, shining shoes and
keeping the good
Captain's domicile in a liveable condition......Fresh Pork Chops for supper
tonight
which were very tasty –
too bad they can't find something better than canned carrots to go with such a
delicacy – we've had a
constant diet of carrots daily for the past month and they invariably hit the
garbage
can......."Laura" starring the glamorous Gene Tierney was the picture
shown at the movies
tonight......
16th
Heavy rains which
started last night and continued throughout the entire day, once more cancelled
a
scheduled mission. The
squadron area looked like a sea of mud and only those members with
important business to
transact ventured outside of their tent. The only activity noticed was at meal
times when the G.I.'s
trekked their way to and from the mess-hall. A day like today is spent mostly
playing cards, reading
and writing letters to the home-front. Much "bitching" was done by
the gurards
who remained at their
posts in the pouring rain for four hours and saw no one......Fresh eggs for
breakfast has become
sort of a habit, so much so that the boys are actually tiring of the morning
menu.
The cooks decided to
vary things a little and this morning served soft and hard boiled eggs – due to
the
heavy downpour the
majority of fellows did not show up for breakfast, consequently the hard boiled
eggs were mixed in with
the bully-beef served for lunch......In spite of the rain a capacity crowd
turned
out for the second
showing of "Laura" with Gene Tierney unreeled in our
mess-hall.............
17th
Fifteen ships of this
Squadron took off at
The first flight of nine
ships was over their objective, the Calliano railroad bridge, at
due to failure of
bomb-bay doors in lead ship to open no bombs were dropped. The second flight of
six
ships hit the Rovereto
railroad bridge from 12800'. The pattern started short extending along north
shoreline to north
approach of the bridge with some hits believed on railroad tracks of the
approach.
Heavy, scant, fairly accurate
anti-aircraft fire was encountered by both formations from the target area,
but no serious damage
was inflicted on our planes or crew members. All planes returned safely to the
base.......Lt. Krebs our
new mess-officer officially took over his duties today, relieving Lt. Mako who
has completed his combat
tour and expects to be leaving shortly for the home shores. A fried chicken
dinner tonight was a
good beginning and it's hoped that the change will be an all around
improvement......After
almost two years overseas the 487th has finally succeeded in procuring a
projector for their own
use. It was used for the first time tonight, urneeling "Lost in a
Harem" with
Abbott and Costello.
Present plans are to show a picture each Monday, Wednesday and Friday in our
own mess-hall for our
own Squadron. Having our own projector may enable us to get better and later
pictures – a good deal
if things work out.......The good news that
received tonight.......
18th
Mission Documents San
Michelle RR Br / Solorno Br
Twelve planes of the
487th Squadron took off at
with very good results.
However, due to a heavy smoke screen, the 2nd box proceeded to the alternate
target, Salorno railroad
bridge, and released their bombs from 12300'. Direct hits were observed on
east approach of the
bridge also on rail diversion. No anit-aircraft fire or other enemy opposition
was
encountered over either
target – all planes and crews returned safely to the base......A
"beaucoup"
delivery of mail came in
this afternoon, but no one was satisfied as the bulk of the loot was delayed
Christmas cards.
First-class mail has been obvious by its absence for nearly two
months......Three new
combat crews arrived in
the Squadron tonight to replace the many "flak-happy" individuals who
completed their tour of
duty......Lts. Cook and
McGiffin, La Vine and Peters traded the gold bar for
silver......"Mrs.
Parkington" was the movie shown in our own mess-hall tonight for the
486th, 487th & Gp.
Hqs. Squadrons....... [1st Lt. Cook made Captain on this date]
19th
This morning's mission was
cancelled just before crews got into the trucks. It was supposedly a hot
target and a stand-down
brought forth many hilarious noises......Much policing of the area and tents
took place this morning
previous to a scheduled inspection by Maj. Rapp. The inspection was
supposed to take place
between
Evidently everything was
found to be satisfactory as there have been no repercussions as yet.......Fire
arms inspection was also
on the schedule at
did the honors. Sgt.
Labuda was there to ask if your gas mask was in good shape. Pvt. Thompson
found a cocoon
comfortably lodged in the barrel of his carbine. Apparently that piece really
needed to
be inspected......Mail
came in today – some of it was dated January 10th, but unfortunately there was
very little of it.
Getting mail in sequence would really be an unexpected thrill......"Maisie
Goes to
20th
Twelve bombers of this
Squadron took off at
placed within the target
area. Six planes were holed and 7L with Lts. La Vine, Gluckowski, F/O
Farone; S/Sgts. Gregor,
Mayer and Sgt. Summers aboard was downed over the target. It all happened
so fast that no one
really knows what occurred. Crew members of other planes noticed the distressed
bomber on fire just
before it headed earthward. Following formations reported two possible 'chutes
coming from the downed
ship. It's almost six months to the day since we lost a ship –
Lt. Evans got quite a
break as he was supposed to fly 7L today until he was removed from the schedule
to accompany the band
for a week-end engagement......Much drinking took place at the Officers Club
tonight which was
probably due to the catastrophe. It's amazing to see what a change an accident
of that
kind brings about among
the combat men.......Free Coca Cola and beer was dispensed this morning –
two cokes and six beers
per man. We can't figure out this free business.......The main topic of
conversation these days
is the great Russian offensive.
as they approach the
German frontier. Some think this is the promised drive to
feature was shown in our
mess-hall tonight – "The Mark of the Whistler" and "The
Conspirators" with
Hedy Lamar. Needless to
say the latter was by far the favorite.......
21st
Crews were briefed early
for a
Twelve bombers
participated in the raid. The first box crossed the bridge left of center and
the second
box made a second pass
crossing the west approach with their pattern. Anti-aircraft fire was not
encountered on this
successful mission......Several cases of scurvy have occurred in the Squadron
within the last few
days. Evidently the lack of fresh food is causing the epidemic. However, a food
ship has been scheduled
to go out on a scrounging party in the near future. Up until recently we had
been getting fresh
vegetables from
unknown reason. They say
that the British have stopped all Americans from landing in
purpose of obtaining
food – a typical move on their part......A late arrival of first-class mail was
distributed at
we're far behind
schedule.....The Group showers have been out of order for several days now and
the
306th looks like a 487th
enterprise. It's not only a better shower, but also in running order more
frequently......PX
rations were distributed in quantity today, and what made them more interesting
was
the fact that they were
free. This combat is really getting rough with much free candy, beer and
coca-cola......."
Nothing But
Trouble" with Laurel and Hardy was shown in the mess-hall tonight.......
22nd TOP
09:45 hours was take-off
time for twelve bombers of the 487th Squadron. They were over the target of
Dogna railroad bridge in
center of the target
bridge. This mission was another "milk-run" as no anti-aircraft fire
was
encountered although
weather enroute was not desirable......News of the Russian offensive is still
the
greatest we've had since
the Allies marched through
been they should be in
miles from the German
Capitol and the encouraging thing is that they are moving so rapidly that it's
impossible to keep track
of their progress. Naturally all personnel of the 487th Squadron are prepared
for the cessation of
hostilities at any moment – and even better prepared for the long voyage
home......Packages came
in this evening and were distributed at
interested in
first-class mail, but packages always lend glamour during a lull and
particularly when mess hall
food is so
questionable......The Group band returned from El Russe this evening after
playing a
hundred and sixty
thousand dollar engagement – a 488th Pilot mistook a plowed field for the
landing
strip while delivering
band members hence the costly entertainment – fortunately no one was injured
except the airplane.
However, despite the catastrophe everyone boasts of having a wonderful time.
Doris Duke Cronwell, the
new Red Cross attaché to the Wing, was the guest of honor......"
Trunk" was shown at
the "
23rd
A stand-down was
declared this morning just as crews were about to take-off. It was a miserable
dark
morning and didn't look
like a mission was possible so a stand-down was expected. Strange that such
news can't reach us
before the last minute which would eliminate a lot of confusion and difficulty.
Nothing like combat they
say.......Ninety-five percent of the Squadron was scheduled for the
presentation of the
Cluster to the Distinguished Unit Citation Badge this morning, but almost half
of
the number were excused
when the formation was called. Generals Cannon and Knapp did the honors
while all four Squadrons
formed a guard of honor and climaxed the ceremony by marching in review –
marching in review is
obviously and definightly not our line. The cluster was earned for the Group by
the sinking of the light
cruiser
Group in the Wing to
receive the cluster although all other Groups have the ribbon and are no doubt
already recommended for
the cluster......The postal department amazed us today with two deliveries of
first-class mail – one
this morning and another this afternoon. "Nelson" was the only one
made
unhappy by the
phenomena......Rain threatened all day and by late afternoon we had showers
although
it didn't develop into
much. The weather here is surprisingly pleasant for this time of year – so much
different than that of
Sunny Italy. However, rumor has us moving to
future......No movie was
shown at the mess-hall this evening.......
24th
Despite a beautiful day
here on
the remainder of the
day. Clouds between here and
was more than slightly
disappointed at the calling off of a "milk-run."......Running back
and forth from
times a week it's
necessary to make six trips to
but on nice days others
can usually be enticed into making the trip – a jeep is always a good
inducement......Sgt. "Greg" Moore has been spending the last few days
working out on the line painting
the aircraft. He has the
"Uncle Willie" cartoons from Bill Mauldin and is in the midst of
transcribing
them on the planes. Sgt. Gavette and "Dan" Barton are assisting him with the
project......Activity is a
minus quantity on the
be a pleasure to get
down to full scale operation when the weather clears up. However, we're hoping
that the war will be
over by the time good weather sets in. The Russians are now less than one
hundred
and fifty miles from
"
25th
Stand-down was in effect
all day which was again due to the weather over the target area. However,
many transitions and practice
formations were flown throughout the day. Such a day makes for much
activity, but not the
kind of activity that combat men enjoy – after flying combat missions it's
rather
difficult to get down to
practice flying again.......Rumor now has it that the 340th will be moving off
of
the
in water at present. The
actuality of this rumor is more plausible than the going home trend that we
enjoyed so recently.
Col. Chapman was supposed to have made the trip over to the new location today,
but thus far none of its
possibilities have been announced. However, it is said that very little exists
in
the way of comfort at
the new location, of course
year......Some old
December mail finally found its way to Alesan today. If the Army can keep the
enemy as confused about
tactics as they do their own personnel with the mail we should have won the
war long ago. Evidently
Army mail service is not run by experienced
in so many other
incidents.......Capt. Linthicum is looking for a qualified French teacher in
order to
inaugurate a French
class. The Algebra class is coming along famously and many requests for French
have been
made......."Flame on the
run at the hospital. The
hospital uses our projector and in return we get their film.......
26th
Despite spring-like
weather here on
raid was staged and
there was more aerial activity over the field than usual. Combat men would
actually rather fly
combat missions than play around with these simulated affairs......Work on the "Dog
Face" planes was
completed today – all twelve now bear the "Uncle Willie" insignia.
Sgts. Gavette,
Moore, Barton and McCrea
have been working on the cartoons for the past few days and have really
done a nice job of the
Bill Mauldin project. Much photographing and publicity stunts are in the offing
which should put the
"Dog Face" squadron on the map. PRO is trying to get Bill Mauldin
himself over
to name the aircraft
bearing his cartoons. It is still to be
decided whether or not the Squadron insignia
will be
changed.......Optimism is running wild in the Squadron these past few days as
the Russians
drive toward
miles of the German capitol
as of this evening. However, official Russian communiques still have
them within a hundred
and forty mile radius. Much money will change hands in the Squadron
regardless of the
outcome although everyone will be happy to be on the losing end of a
victory......."Hollywood
Canteen" was shown at the "
and the picture was a
success......
27th
Mission this morning –
at last. Twelve bombers of this Squadron took off at
to bomb
box crossed the south
end and approach, the second box covered the central portion and the third box
bombed in the pattern of
the second. There was no opposition encountered either over the target or
enroute and all planes
returned safely to the base.......Capt. Winebrenner returned to the Squadron
today
following an emergency
furlough in the States. He was forty-two days at home and if it hadn't been for
conditions at home he
would have enjoyed every moment of it. The Captain says the States are
wonderful, but the
coming back is too difficult to make a thirty day furlough worthwhile. The
hardest
thing he's ever done was
to leave home again......The rumor about moving has become pretty much of
an actuality although no
definight announcement has been made. Our new field is supposed to be within
thirty some miles of the
front lines which is an angle that isn't looked forward to with much
enthusiasm. Until the
field dries we are to live in the war torn buildings of a local village – no
doors or
windows we understand.
Col. Chapman wants to take all available lumber including mess-halls,
Officers Club and Red
Cross Club which indicates a shortage of shelter or else a hell of a lot of
repair
work. Regardless of the
conditions up there we shall leave
tonight.......
28th
Target for today was San
Michele Diversion in
off with thousand
pounders and dropped their devastating load with precision accuracy scoring
direct
hits on the target.
Anti-aircraft fire was absent over the target and all planes returned safely to
the
base......Line boys are
now getting one day in every ten off. They used to jump on a plane every so
often for a days sojourn
in
into effect. There is
really no point in a day off on
carpenters are in the
process of building a stage in the mess-hall for the G.I. colored review
scheduled
for January 30th. For
all the work entailed the show should be a WOW.......Plans for a two year
overseas celebration
have been curtailed somewhat by the eventuality of a move. However, it really
doesn't make much
difference because two years overseas isn't an occasion for celebration.
February
15th will mark the
second anniversary for the 340th......No movie was shown in the Squadron
tonight......
29th
Two elements of six
ships took off at
Rovereto railroad bridge
in
consequently the
alternate Marcaria railroad bridge was bombed. Bomb pattern covered west
approach
and west end of bridge
with direct hits observed. Anti-aircraft fire over Marcaria was negligent.
Three
chaff ships leading the
formation to Rovereto hit just to the left of the given gun positions with
possible
hits in gun areas. Chaff
ships dropped phosphorus bombs. However, the guns were not silenced and
three ships were holed
by anti-aircraft fire injuring on man. The injury sustained by Sgt. While,
radio-gunner
in 7B, was only slight.
Bomb pattern covered the north end and approaches of Rovereto with
direct hits
observed......A plane was supposed to leave for Rimini and another for
but both were called
off. Everyone is anxious for a complete report on our new field at
far every picture
varies. Some say there are buildings to live in and others say there is
absolutely
nothing but rubble. The
gals on the loose and
the variation in price......A class in Calculus will be started in the Squadron
providing there are
sufficient students to make the session worthwhile. The Algebra class is doing
very
nicely......Lt. Hammond
is the only man in the Squadron with "Forever Amber" and just about
everyone
is sweating him out. He
reads slowly or else he's rereading passages. At the present time "Forever
Amber" and
"Strange Fruit" are the most sought after books in the
Squadron......"The Falcon in
30th
Lavis railroad Diversion
was the target for twelve 487th bombers this morning. The formation
encountered heavy, scant
but fairly accurate anti-aircraft fire which holed two ships although no injury
to crew members was
incurred. Evidently the Diversion remained standing as the first box overshot
and the pattern of the
second crossed the tracks immediately north of the wet span......Gen. Knapp was
in the Group again today
to make heroes out of combat men and a few of the favored ground personnel.
Many of the 487th men to
be decorated were absent on account of the mission – no one on the mission
was disappointed either.
It's surprising how they dread the decoration ceremony particularly when the
Army considers it quite
a morale factor. The formation was held down at the Red Cross Club and our
Lt. Smith carried the
medal box for the General......"Smiley" Nelson had one hell of a time
at supper
this evening trying to
chew a tough piece of steak with his new partial plate. His facial expression
was
anything but that of
delight although everyone is used to that and few were aware of the reason.
"Smiley"
Nelson says they're damned hard to get used to and no doubt the Squadron will
suffer right
along with
him......T/Sgt. Olander was relieved as Sergeant of the Guard this morning when
he received
those much sought after
"relieved of Assignment" papers. Combat men finished their missions
and
awaiting orders have
been pulling Sergeant of the Guard thus far.......Music was heard throughout
the
area tonight as the 41st
Engineers played a show in the mess-hall. At least it was supposed to have been
a
show, but they just brought
the band along. However, they made plenty of noise and everyone seemed
to enjoy the
performance......There was no movie shown in the Squadron tonight......
31st
Mission Documents Rovereto
RR Br and station yard
Twelve bombers of the
487th Squadron took off at
railroad bridge in
poor visibility the
pattern of the second box was not clearly observed although crews reported it
within
the target area.
Anti-aircraft fire was heavy, moderate to intense and accurate holing three of
the
participating aircraft.
7M returned with a hole as large as a human head so close to the radio
compartment that Sgt.
Rigdon missed it by fractions rather than inches. He was only slightly injured
by fragments,
however......Much excitement in the Squadron this afternoon when T/Sgt. Webb
set off
two German teller mines
during the excavation of a new latrine. It's surprising to see a new latrine
being erected so close
to moving time, but they just couldn't stretch the old one. Sgt. Gavette, duty
Sergeant in charge of
latrines says "it will be a miniature affair to last about twenty days......S-2
predicts
February 17th as the end
of the European War (ala Hetzner). Between German and Russian reports the
Russians are anywhere
between eighty and fifty miles from
communique this evening
had them seventy miles from the German Capital......"Dark Waters"
with
Merle Oberon was shown
in the mess-hall this evening.......
February 1945
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
i. Losses in Action
1. Fred L Cormack
2. Ospar E Olson Jr
3. Morris Lazarowitz
4. Lawson T Ware
j. Personnel who have
distinguished themselves in action.
1. David D Cuthberson
2. Stewart Farnham
3. Emil F Jattmar
4. William E McGriffin
5. Harry P Naruszewicz
6. Carl A Pennock
7. James R Rambo
8. John C Rau
9. Lawson T. Ware
10. Fleet C Williams
The following flying
personnel of this organization have been awarded Air Medals and Clusters:
1. Bernard Albert
2. Walter Allor Jr
3. Dominic Angelini
4. Blaise A Ansara
5. Theodore J. Bennett
6. Eugene J Broos Jr
7. Robert E Brown
8. Willard A Bruce
9. Marion G Burger
10. Robert W Carlson
11. Thomas W. Cavanagh
12. Louis Carbera
13. Hubert Conwill
14. Fred L Cormack
15. Duke J Crosby
16. David D Cuthbertson
17. Paul V Deneen Jr
18. James C Dinkler
19. Charles F. Donovan
20. John H Downs
21. Warren A Downs
22. George Dranchak
23. William Durie
24. Myron E Erickson
25. Richard F Evans
26. Robert K Evans
27. Edgar E Evarts
28. Paul R Faron
29. Alleson J Forrister
30. Charles F Fredericks
Jr.
31. Pierre P Garvin
32. George Gregor
33. Dwain D Gull
34. Nelson Halstead
35. Werner M Hartman Jr
36. David D Heater
37. Raymond S Heckman
38. Thomas A Hetzel
39. Walter B Hogge
40. Emmett C Houston
41. Kenneth W Hovermale
42. Emil F Jettmar
43. Frank L Jones
44. Charles E Jones
45. Christy M. Kara
46. Donald m Kenne
47. Hubert C. Knauff
48. Paul S Kotowski
49. William E. Krebs
50. Wallace L Krueger
51. Francis J La
52. William A Lee Jr
53. Robert E Lehmkuhl
54. Roger D Lewis
55. Julius Lieberman
56.
57. Bryant O Lyons
58. Paul H. Mabe
59. Morgan C. Mattox
60. Joel B Mayer
61. Arthur W Merritt
62. David J Mershon
63. Marlan J Michel
64. John C Miller
65. Floyd E Mithoell
66. Wesley J Mummert
67. Paul E McDonnell
68. William E McGriffin
69. Charles T McIlvain
70. Walter V McVee
71. Harry P Naruszewicz
72. John M O'Riley
73. Edward W Oviatt
74.
75. Olan B Parrish
76. Carl A Fennock
77. Donald A Peterson
78. John Polanko
79. Gerard M Powers
80. Raymond Prient Jr.
81. Joseph F Quinlin
82. James R Rambo
83. John H Ramsey
84. John C Rau
85. Frank N Reynolds
86. James A Robb
87.
88.
89. James C Slaughter
90. Dwayne Q Smith
91. Marvin H Smith
92. David C Solether
93. Paul N Spencer
94. Kenneth O Starr
95. Geroge R Stejskal
96. Harold N Sterling
97. Nathen G Thomas
98. Joseph F Thornsberry
99. Calvert Todd Jr
100. Joseph J Tomasek
101. Ted H Trier
102. Fleet C Williams
103. Donald E. Wilson
104. John J. S.
Wisanowski
105. Ralph L Woods
106. John J. Zugibe
The 487th Squadron
started out the second month of the new year with a stand-down. Twelve crews
were out on the field
this morning ready for take-off when the mission was called off and a the
stand-down
declared. It as raining
and hazy this morning, but before
another spring like
day......Pay call was held in the mess-hall from
has dispensed with the
saluting practice and it really helps hasten the paying procedure. Many
requests
fro playing cards were
made at the Special Service tent following the happy occasion. No doubt much
money will be changing
hands in the Squadron for the next few days – games usually last until all cash
is
centralized......S/Sgt. Bill Durie is finally back with the Squadron after much
dickering back & forth
with the 310th in
exchange for “Bill.” He's glad to be back with the Squadron although he admits
that
he doesn't like any
overseas outfit......1st/Sgt. Parkins is sweating out the results of a Warrant
Officer
examination he took down
at Wing the other day. He is fairly confident although he claims it was
really rough and he
wouldn't be surprised if he remained First Sergeant for another year. Passing a
board is just the first
part of becoming a Warrant Officer, but once you get it it's a good deal
providing
one wants to make a
career out of the Army......”Strange Affair” was shown at the mess-hall tonight
at
two different
showings......
2nd
Chiusaforte West
railroad bridge was the target for eleven B-25's of the 487th Squadron this
morning.
They were over the
target at
consequently the results
were undetermined. However, it is believed that the only two ships dropping
out of the second box
crossed the north approach. A light, scant and inaccurate barrage of
anti-aircraft
fire was encountered off
the right wing on turnoff, but no damage was inflicted on the participating
bombers......Lts. Hale
and Spears departed for God's Country after completing their respective tours
of
duty. It can easily be
said that they left without regret. Lt. Broos flew over to
order to gat a much
needed haircut and managed to RON. [?] Broos has been having a hell of a time
getting off the
point his hair is far
enough down his neck to be curled......The 487th Trio singing with the
“Skyliners” is
contemplating a strike.
it seems that they were offended the other night when a new vocalist trying out
took all of the numbers.
Naturally it was unintentional although “artists” are temperamental......Two
new crews came into the
Squadron today and as usual they were greeted like long lost cousins.
Perhaps the number of
mission to a tour will be cut down now......”Sunday Dinner For A Soldier” was
shown at the
twice before so the
attendance was very limited.
3rd
Despite a brilliant sun
the mission schedule for this morning was off and a stand-down was declared.
Evidently
the line all day shooting
movies of the “Dog Face” Squadron. It looks as though the Squadron is going
to get no end of publicity
providing all the efforts put forth by the Group PRO reach the proper outlets.
Bill Mauldin has not made
his promised trip to the Island as yet and consequently the planes are still
without names......We still have nothing definight on the move although it is
definight that we will go
sometime this month.
Capt. Linthicum left yesterday a sort of advanced party for the Squadron. God
only knows how long
he'll be there before the Squadron catches up to him because the moving date is
set back daily......News
on the eastern front continues to be good, but there are so many different
reports as to the
distance between the Russian troops and
The Russians are very
conservative in their communiques while the Germans are exactly the opposite,
consequently we are more
inclined to believe the Nazis. If the German communiques are correct the
Russians are already
across the
would be safe to say
that they are within a sixty mile radius of
Street” played in the
mess-hall tonight. There was also several reels of the 340th in combat
shown......
4th
Mission Documents Ala and
Lavis RR Brs &Station
Four planes of the
eighteen ship formation sent out this morning to bomb Lavis Diversion were
holed
by intense flak encountered
over the target. Lts. Cormack and Olson were slightly wounded while on
the bomb run. All three
boxes scored hits on the Diversion crossing it in two different places. Today's
pattern was one of the
most compact that has been accomplished in this Squadron for some time.
Captain Sterling spent
the evening marveling at the excellent bomb pattern shown on the
photographs......S/Sgt.
Paul Gilman has been on the alert for the past three days for a hurried move to
Yugoslav's working in
the Group was caught fooling around in the tool box of an airplane last night.
Fortunately he understood
enough English to halt at the command otherwise we would probably have a
dead Yugo among us now.
Both T/Sgt. Powers and PFC Pederson claim the capture, but evidently it's a
fifty-fifty proposition
because Pederson discovered the culprit and turned him over to Powers who was
patrolling the area in a
jeep. We are still in the dark as to the purpose behind the Yugoslav's
mission......There were
two deliveries of mail today and neither one of them amounted to much more
than a few packages and
letters. Packages are the least of our worries with so much first-class mail
outstanding. Even if the
little first-class mail we do get in would run in sequence it would have more
value to the
recipient......A pictureless evening was enjoyed in the Squadron this evening......
5th
Twelve bombers of the
Squadron were over Calliano railroad bridge #5 again this morning. Originally
there were chaff and
phosphorus elements, but when the target was changed to Calliano these ships
were eliminated.
Observations had both boxes in the center of the bridge, but photographs showed
only fifty percent hits.
Anti-aircraft fire was accurate over the target holing two ships in the
formation,
although no injury to
crew members was incurred......Rumor has it that the move has been postponed
again. There is nothing
official on it as yet, but it's quite evident as Francs are no longer being
changed
into Italian Lire and
the tearing down of the Red Cross Club was halted this afternoon. However, the
Club is about half way
down now so unless they rebuild it the place won't have much value. No one
can understand why the
Club is being taken to begin with because other than the Thursday night dances
it's a total loss......Capt.
Spencer is making a record for Public Relations which will probably be
broadcast to the States
eventually. It's one of those run of the mill affairs dealing with hot missions
encountered during a
tour of combat. The record will be made at Radio Rome tomorrow providing
they can take
off......The mail situation becomes worse daily. It used to be that on nice
days we could
expect some kind of a
mail delivery, but lately it's considered a great day when a couple of letters
come
in......”Hail the
Conquering Hero” was shown at the
6th
Fifteen bombers of this
Squadron took-off at
to the base. Poor
weather over the target was rather surprising considering the beautiful day we
enjoyed here on
T/Sgt. Carter the Bronze
Star Medal. Conspicuous on the same order was the Bronze Star to Capt.
Clifford W. Swearingen
former Assistant S-2 Officer who also contributed his literary art to the
Squadron Diary. Capt.
Swearingen is to be commended for his progress at the Wing. Congratulations
are also due Major
Bugbee,
the Squadron this
afternoon. Among the letters were a few belated Christmas Pkgs. which had no
doubt made the rounds of
all overseas post offices......Combat men seem to
be finishing up and going
home daily now. Before
very long we'll see another complete turn over of combat personnel
[Capt. Charles M. Cook
finished his tour and going home]
Lt. Rushton spent the afternoon without pants after
burning his last pair on a stove. He claims that they
were his only pair and
that someone will have to come to his aid if he is expected to leave for home
tomorrow......”Bowery to
Broadway” was shown at the “
7th
Three chaff ships and
twelve bombers of lthe Squadron attacked the San Michele Diverson again. The
chaff ships covered
Dogna gun positions and proved to be quite effective. Anti-aircraft fire was
not
encountered over San
Michelle and both bomb patterns covered the bridge inflicting direct hits......A
Public Address system
was installed in the Special Service tent, but it was only borrowed from Group
and probably won't last
very long. If we are allowed to keep it many request programs are being
planned and in the
meantime Sgts. Barnes, Carstansen and Moore are playing their favorites. The
music adds rather a
carnival aspect to the Squadron area providing one has nothing to do but
listen......The Group
baseball team was awarded an appropriate medal this afternoon for their
achievement during the
season. It bears an inscription acclaiming them the wing champions. Other
than a souvenir or
keepsake the medal has no value......Rumor has it that Capt. Coyle's orders to
return
to the Squadron were
cancelled at the P.O.E. and he was ordered to await the return of the Group. Lt
Cormack's mother also of
Capt. Coyle. The story
is that the Group is to return to
and train for the Pacific.
Going home is the only good part of that story......"Strike Up the
Band" was
shown in the mess-hall
tonight......
8th TOP
Mission Documents
phosphorus element
covered northeast portion of "A" gun positions. Bomb pattern due to
poor
visibility from smoke of
other patterns was hard to observe, but was believed to have hit in the area of
southern portion of
"wet" span. Heavy, moderate to intense and accurate anti-aircraft
fire was
encountered over the
target holing four of the participating bombers. The lead ship had an
eighty-eight
shell go right through
the left wing exploding above the airplane......Group Special Services came
down
this morning and
politely removed their Public Address system much to the displeasure of the
"hep
cats" in the
Squadron. Evidently they are not in favor of lending it out for indefinight
periods of time
due to the destruction
usually incurred on such a deal......"Bingo" games were resumed in
the mess-hall
this evening. It had
been discontinued ever since the Enlisted Men's Club was flooded out during the
early fall rain storms.
However, instead of the usual prizes money has replaced the souvenirs of Roma.
Our mess-hall is by far
the most versatile building in the organization - it can be changed from a
dining
hall to a theater and
then to a gambling cassino. S/Sgt. Kosak spent the day constructing a ping-pong
table also to be
installed in the mess-hall......No movie was shown in the mess-hall
tonight......
9th
A hot mission was
scheduled this morning, but it was cancelled in favor of a stand-down just
before the
second alert. Needless to
say there was much cheering when the announcement was made. With all
these hot missions it's
surprising that the minimum requirement for a tour of combat isn't out to sixty
missions. Six months ago
when a tour consisted of fifty missions with no questions asked the greatest
percentage of raids were
"milk runs." One could certainly never give the Army credit for being
consistent......Lt.
Smith is said to be having considerable difficulty reaching his tent lately. In
the last
week he has detoured
through various slit trenches on two occasions. However, he claims to have
eliminated the danger by
procuring a very strong flash light......Some mail came in late this afternoon,
but the delivery was so
slight that it is hardly worth mentioning. for the past few weeks our mail call
has consisted of a few
old beat up Christmas packages that have probably made the rounds of every
theater of operations
and a very limited number of first-class letters that by some strange incident
managed to sneak
through. It's good that the magazine articles emphasizing the importance of
mail to a
soldier are not one
hundred percent true because of that were the case Corsican based fighting men
would have perished long
ago......Band members are again vacationing at El Rousse. It's actually a job,
but the Enlisted men at
least consider it a vacation......Stars and Stripes are coming in again but
spasmodically. When the
306th Service Group was handling the maters we received them daily.
However, the 340th
Special Service Department has taken over the task and thus far we received
five
editions one day, three
editions the next and we're now awaiting the third assortment......"Step
Lively"
with the celebrated
swoon crooner Frank Sinatra was shown in the mess-hall this evening. Perhaps it
was sour grapes, but
nevertheless very few of the boys seemed to care much for the picture......
10th
conditions over
another balmy day.
Apparently the Corsican winter is over as the days are consistently spring
like......Fresh Chicken
was served for supper tonight. The fowl without a question of a doubt died a
natural death because it
was next to impossible to dissect it with an ordinary knife. Sgt. Liphardt put
on quite a wrestling
match with his piece using gestures and clever repartee for the benefit of all
diners......"Shorty"
Larson left his nails and hammer on the ground today and went on a practice
mission. There is no
fear of "Shorty" giving up his carpentry because he only went so that
he could be
pictured bedecked in a
parachute......Capt. Linthicum has many stories to relate concerning the field
that we were supposed to
occupy since returning from
remained on lifeless
11th
Stand-down was in effect
all day although there was no apparent reason other than poor weather over
submerged in water and
mud and rain never seems to cease......Two more crews came in this afternoon
and were greeted like
long lost friends by all combat crew members. Some are of the opinion that if
enough new men come in
the tour of combat will be cut down. Rumor has it that the new Group Flight
Surgeon is in favor of
cutting down the missions from seventy to sixty although it is said that he is
running into opposition
on that score. Needless to say the Flight Surgeon has already made a hit with
the combat men......The
boys have found a lady up in the hills that runs a restaurant after a fashion –
eggs and french fried
potatoes are the main bill of fare. However, T/Sgt. Laiton shot three ducks,
brought them up to the
lady yesterday and made arrangements for a duck dinner to be served tonight.
Five fellows partook of
the feast this evening and from all accounts enjoyed it immensely. Sgt. Moore
took up some phonograph
records which provided the musical din......Sgt. Liphardt received a
newspaper picture of his
fiancé displaying the ring that “Lip” had purchased for her in
had blessed by Pope Pius
XII. Needless to say Sgt. Linhardt spent the day proudly showing the
clipping of his one and
only......”Keys To The Kingdom” was shown at the Squadron mess-hall this
evening. It is one of
the best pictures ever shown in the Squadron.......
12th
Crews waited around all morning
for briefing, but before the morning was over a stand-down was
declared. For all that
we know the war may be over although the radio commentators keep blaring
away of the progress
being made on all fronts. The Russians are still moving in the
hundred mile front west
of the
by the regrouping of the
Russian forces on the east bank of the
big things to come of
the Big Three Conference which is now in session somewhere on Russian
territory......A
decoration ceremony was held this afternoon. S/Sgt. Robert Brownlee was
presented
with the Legion of Merit
which was awarded to him for his part in the invention of the radio release
system being used by our
bombers. He is the only man in the Squadron who has ever received this
high award. Some of the
other ground men were presented with the Bronze Star and the customary
aerial awards were
dispensed to combat men......Lt. Broos has evidently decided to remain in
the duration. He has
been over there for a week now and apparently has no intention of returning as
he
sent word to Lt. Donovan
that he was lonesome and wanted Donovan to join him in the
Needless to say Broos doesn't
know that a new system has been inaugurated and that he has to be
interviewed by the Group
Flight Surgeon before his orders are submitted to the 12th AF......”Rhapsody
in Blue” was shown at
the mess-hall tonight. It was the third time the picture had been shown in the
Group, but everyone
seemed to enjoy the repeat performance......
13th
San Ambrogio Station was
the primary target for fifteen bombers of this Squadron taking-off at
hours this morning.
Chaff and phosphorus ships led the formation into the target and the second box
dropped on the primary –
their pattern appeared to be immediately east of the center in the yards. The
first box bombed the
alternate, Calcinato railroad bridge crossing the tracks east of the bridge.
Heavy,
moderate and very
accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered over both targets, holing three of
the
participating aircraft.
Other squadrons in the formation suffered casualties and severe injuries to
personnel so the 487th
was really fortunate today......The “Skyliners” held a rehearsal for the
recording
that they are supposed
to make for PRO in
script, the band played
and Capt. Thomas with his able assistant listened [..?..] no one was satisfied.
the band is burned up
because of all the plugs for the 340th and Capt. Thomas claims the music is too
noisy. After another two
or three weeks of discussions and arguments the idea will no doubt be
junked......Within the
next two days the Group will celebrate their second year overseas. Festivities
are
being planned, but it
doesn't sound like it will amount to much more than a change of menu and the
scheduled USO
show......Sgts. Barnes and Hetzner have inaugurated a rumor clinic. They have
requested via the bulletin
board that all rumors worthy of repeating be turned over to them for
publication. It will be
a sad day for the 487th Squadron if none of these excellent rumors ever bear
fruit.
The 487th is rapidly
becoming the rumor factory of the Group......No movie was presented at the
mess-hall
tonight. They say that
there are only six films on the Island that we haven't seen. It's just the old
story of running a good
thing to the ground......
14th
Valentines Day was not
celebrated in the Squadron today – in fact there were very few of the boys who
even remembered that it
was once a day for great celebration. Evidently the Group is returning to the
old system of a
stand-down every fourth day for the Squadron. The 487th stood-down in turn
today......Rumors are floating
around the Squadron in abundance although there is nothing official on
any of them.. the time
was when rumors were repeated in hushed tones, but nowadays rumors dominate
all conversations. All
of them have us going home varying only in the route and details. Actually it's
getting to the point
where it's a little tiresome listening to everyone's dreams. It will either be
a happy
or an unhappy day when
the official announcement is made......Much commotion was caused in the
mess-hall this evening
when S/Sgt. Litwin discovered a small bronze basketball apparently received for
proficiency at the game
in his beans. T/Sgt. Liphardt took this situation in hand and returned it to
the
cooks who became very
indignant claiming that the trophy did not belong to any of them. Needless to
say Liphardt is now very
much in the doghouse. The Cooks are getting very sensitive, but there is no
doubt about the fact
that they could use plenty of constructive criticism......Lt. Mecham is the
first man
in the Squadron to finish
a correspondence course and apply for a second one. Pvt. “Flash” Gordon is
also doing a lot of work
with the courses in an effort to make up his missing high school
credit......PFC
“Shorty” Larson spent
the afternoon erecting a volley ball court in the area. Because of his lack of
height “Shorty” plays a
losing game, but he still seems to enjoy it. Volley Ball has become a favorite
sport since the erection
of the net......”Stars On Parade” was shown at the mess-hall this evening. Half
of the boys left after
the first real claiming that it was the worst they had ever seen. No one had
anything good to say for
the Columbia Production......
15th TOP
Crews were out at the airplanes
when a stand-down was declared late this morning. A little transition
was flown this
afternoon, but other than that aerial activity in the Squadron was at a
standstill......Two
cokes and six bottles of
beer were dispensed free of charge this morning which sort of started off the
days activities. A fine
roast beef dinner was followed by a USO show, “Swingtime” at the 520th Service
Squadron. Those who
remained in the area saw a volley ball game between the Squadron officers and
enlisted men – men the
officers were on the losing end. Supper consisted of pork chops augmented
with the name dehydrated
vegetation with a bottle of Tripoli beer and a coke to add color and spirit.
Some of the boys from
the line had already indulged in the spirits which made the mess-hall quite
noisy
during the dinner hour.
The USO show was repeated at the Red Cross Club this evening to a full
house. Here in the
Squadron mess-hall “And Now Tomorrow” was shown which was supposed to be
followed by ice cream
and apple pie. However, someone failed to send a truck up to Bastia for the ice
cream so a disappointed
crowd had to call it an evening with a show. Thus was the Squadrons
celebration of its
second year overseas......Most of the men doing the celebrating have been over
her
about five months
consequently their enthusiasm was much greater than those entitled to
celebrate.
The men who have been
over here two years were more interested in getting home than celebrating an
occasion that should be
mourned......SO ENDS A STRICTLY RED LETTER
16th
Mission was canceled
again this morning and a stand-down declared. It was rather a dismal day here
on the Island and Italy
was probably encased by the same soupy sky making accurate bombing
impossible. Missions have
been might few and far between for the last two weeks. combat men are
not consistent as one
minute they're wishing a stand-down would be declared and then they're moaning
about not getting their
missions in......Many rumors concerning the transfer of men to the Infantry are
floating around the
Squadron. Several of the boys came back from Naples and Rome with stories of
men with thirty months
overseas with the Air Corps being shifted to the Infantry. It will be a sad day
for the 487th personnel
when and if the practice reaches us......There are so many new men in the
organization that it
hardly looks like the same old outfit. apparently the new men feel that they
have
reached Utopia in
overseas assignment. Without batting an eyelid they come to Special Service
asking
for green ink, wrapping
paper, radio tubes and such recent best sellers as “Forever Amber.” Evidently
they believe the home
front talk of everything going to the men overseas.......The Ice Cream that we
failed to get last night
was served for supper this evening in liquid form over apple pie. Needless to
say
the anticipation was
much greater than the enjoyment derived......No movie tonight......
17th
Twelve bombers of the
487th Squadron attacked Bressanone railroad bridge this morning. three
phosphorus ships led the
formation into the target dropping their pattern immediately to the northwest
of gun positions. Both
bomb patters crossed the bridge at center and left of center with probable
direct
hits. There was no
anti-aircraft fire encountered, but four to six ME 109's passed over the
formation
from
fired by another B-25.
It's getting bad when gunners start firing on their own formation although at a
time like that the
excitement is great. Half of the gunners didn't even see the enemy
aircraft......The
entire Squadron area is
restricted for a period of one week as a result of the tent and area inspection
made this morning by
Major Rapp. Some of the combat men have been relieving themselves in the
weeds near their tents
which is not a very sanitary manner and was not fully appreciated by the
Commanding
Officer.......Several of the boys form the area were already on order to leave
for rest
period in Rome today,
but the were canceled and the line men took advantage of the vacancies. The
next inspection will
probably find this cow pasture looking like Central Park......Packages and
paper
came into the Squadron
tonight, but they weren't any too welcome with so much first-class mail still
outstanding. It will
surely be a wonderful day when we can consider ourselves caught up to date in
the
first-class mail
department......A new man in the Squadron was questioned today concerning the
missing articles in the
combat crew area. Many of the missing articles were found amongst his
belongings, but nothing
definight has been announced as yet......No movie was shown in the Squadron
this evening......
18th
The status was all mixed
up this morning and no one knew exactly what was going on. First of all a
mission was scheduled
for early morning take-off, but it was changed and a stand-down was declared
at Group briefing. By
the time crews got back to the Squadron area an immediate stand-by was in
effect and shortly after
that an afternoon mission was determined. Early chow was served to crew
members and they were
out on the field taking off when they were called back due to the weather. All
this confusion was
supposed to have been caused by the apparent withdrawal of German troops from
Italy......Three chaff
ships from this Squadron flew with the 488th and dropped the chaff in the
assigned
area, but phosphorus
bombs were returned due to bombardiers error......Excavation on a new latrine
was commenced this morning.
Evidently we are to be on Corsica for the duration or the remainder of
our natural
lives......Capt. Linthicum, Sgts. Barnes, Goodrich and Walkes spent the day
yesterday in
conference at the
Officers Club. The conference dealt with that part of I & E program
pertaining to
regular orientation
discussions. The committee will inaugurate this system of open discussion on
current problems and
topics in the Squadron shortly......Our weeks restriction has really gone into
effect. Officers were
even stopped from going to Bastia for their rations, two men who are finished
their missions and were
prepared to leave for Cairo this morning were halted......The 487th was again
without movie
tonight......
19th
The 487th remained on the
ground again today with the exception of a little transition and a plane to
Naples. The latter took
five combat men who were returning to the States over to the POE. Capt.
Miller, Lt. Genian,
Sgts. Byerly, Kenyon and Mailzewski made up the lucky five......The new latrine
atop the hill is coming
along nicely. It is being dug as a convenience to combat men who found the
regular commode too far
from their tents which necessitated relieving themselves in the nearby weeds.
Perhaps too close
association with the Italians brought about this innovation......Physical
examinations
of all ground personnel
in the Squadron commenced this morning. The entire Group is carrying out
these examinations, but
the purpose is still unknown. Many of the boys are venturing guesses as to the
purpose, but the general
opinion is that it's merely a routine check up. We are hoping that is has
nothing to do with the
Infantry in spite of the many rumors......Not enough mail has come in within
the
last few days to even
hang out the “Poco” sign. Most of the fellows are so disgusted now that it
doesn't
make much difference
whether it comes in or whether it doesn't. Patience is a virtue that doesn't
stand
constant abuse and the
Corsican mail situation is more than anyone can stand......”Old Acquaintances”
was sown at the Squadron
mess-hall this evening. An excellent picture that most everyone had seen at
least once before......
20th
Lavis Diversion was the
primary target for twelve 487th bombers this morning. However, heavy haze
and smoke pots prevented
good vision and the alternate was bombed. Both approaches to Romano di
Lombardi were damaged
although the bridge was not destroyed. Two enemy fighters were sighted
although they failed to
attack the formation. Anti-aircraft was out of range and all planes returned
safely to the
base......Plans are going ahead for the “SkyLiners” broadcast to take place in
Rome
sometime the end of this
week. Sgt. Fuiks is going to Rome tomorrow as the advanced man. The band
will leave Saturday in a
C-47 and a B-25. Rehearsals will be held in Rome before the broadcast is
made so the project may
run into a lengthy sojourn in the Eternal City......Two new crews came in this
afternoon giving the Squadron
more combat men than ever before. Right now there are so many radio-gunners
that they are being
flown as turret-gunners. A tour of combat will be stretched into a much
longer period of time
now much to the displeasure of the flying personnel......Our restriction has
made
the volley ball court
quite an entertainment center of late. Hopping around on a volley ball court is
more healthful then the
usual Roman holiday, but not nearly as pleasant......”Winged Victory” was
shown in the mess-hall
this evening. The picture was nothing more than two solid hours of flag
waving......
21st
Twelve bombers of the
Squadron took off this morning at 10:51 hours to bomb Udine Marshaling Yards
followed at 12:06 hours
by three chaff and phosphorus ships destined for Bressanone railroad bridge.
However, both elements
returned early with bombs due to cloud coverage......General Knapp was in the
Group today for one of
his regular presentation ceremonies. Many 487th combat men were decorated
along with several
ground crew men who were presented with the Bronze Star. Now that they no
longer require a guard
of honor there isn't so much confusion or ill feelings on decoration day. After
two months of combat in
the air a man looks like a well decorated Christmas tree......Several of the
boys formerly with the
Squadron and now returned to the States have written back with much
information regarding
former members. T/Sgt. Copeland ex assistant armament section chief and now
ex-soldier is running a
bakery in Texas. Lt. Bloomberg of 487th
fame is reported to have donned a zoot
suit. T/Sgt. “Gus”
Rounis former radio-gunner with the Squadron has also regained his freedom. Our
former assistant
operations officer Capt. Hugue is at present major Hugue with a B-29 outfit in
Saipan.
T/Sgt. Ed. Johnston is
at Chemical Warfare school and T/Sgt. Warren Wood is still enjoying a series of
furloughs. Discharges
must be a dime a dozen in the States now which is rather amazing to men who
have been overseas two
years with no apparent relief in view. The Army and its intricacies will always
remain in the unsolved
quantity to most of its personnel......”Conspirators” with Hedy La Marr was
shown in the mess-hall
tonight for the second time in less than tow months. However, Miss La Marr is
always a welcome sight
in this outpost of civilization......
22nd TOP
Nine planes took off
this morning at 10:00 A.M., six bomber headed for the Lavis railroad station
and
three phosphorus ships
attacked the Bressanone gun positions. Seven of the aircraft were holed and
one crew member, Sgt. M.
Lazarowitz was slightly wounded as a result of the heavy, intense and
accurate anti-aircraft
fire. Phosphorus element failed to identify the target and the bombers missed
the
target altogether for
the first time in ages. Needless to say the zero did nothing for our bombing
accuracy this month, but
such things are to be expected occasionally......Our restriction is over Friday
at
infrequently a
restriction is always considered to be very confining. No doubt Rome an Naples
will see
much of the 487th
Squadron after the restriction is lifted......Sgt. Roger Metzner, who was
scheduled to
sing with the
“Skyliners” as the “masked singer” for their recording is in a dither. There is
so much
opposition, pros and
cons that Roger doesn't know what the story is. The story will be unfolded
Saturday when the band
leaves for Rome......Combat men not on the mission spent the day in hiding as
there were various
details. However, Sgt. Gavette, duty Sergeant, never stands short on the
details – he
always manages to dig
someone up. A new washing device for mess-kits is being installed which
requires a lot of
work......No movie was shown at the mess-hall this evening......
23rd
Mission Documents San
Felice RR Fill
Lavis Diversion was again
the primary target for this mornings mission, but due to dense smoke
screens at Lavis the
formation turned off while on the bomb run and went to Legnaro railroad bridge
which was designated as
alternate. Eighteen bombers of this Squadron attacked the target covering it
thoroughly with their
bomb patterns. Two spans were out before the attack was made and our formation
lent further to the
destruction of this vital railroad bridge. Heavy, scant but inaccurate
anti-aircraft fire
was encountered over the
primary – no ships were holed or damaged......The only eventful happening
of the day was the
arrival of “Beaucoup” mail. For the first time in weeks it was really
“Beaucoup”
including first-class
mail and packages. There is still a lot of January mail missing, but today’s
delivery
should satisfy everyone
for a while at least......A new arrangement has been made with the 486th which
will enable more men to
see Cairo. From now on one ship will leave each Squadron alternately every
ten days bringing down
one group of men and picking up those who had been left on the last trip. One
of our planes will leave
Monday and already preparation has begun for the fortunates who are
going......Another
inspection is scheduled for tomorrow which will either lift our restriction or
enforce
another week of
confinement. However, much precaution is being made today to avoid the fate we
suffered last
week......”Brazil” was shown at the Squadron mess-hall this evening......
24th
Bressanone railroad
bridge was the primary target this morning, but was not bombed due to cloud
coverage consequently
the phosphorus element returned all bombs. However, the twelve ship bomber
formation proceeded on
to the alternate, Adda Pizzighettone railroad bridge. A premature radio release
signal caused the wing
ships to drop first and a general mix-up in the bombing. No claims to bombing
accuracy were made
following this raid. Lt. Ware was slightly wounded and two ships were holed as
a
result of the
anti-aircraft fire......The “Skyliners” finally got off today to make their
phonographic debut
in Rome. They are
expected to be away for several days......Tactical Air Force in the
Mediterranean is
having a souvenir
ashtray produced for all personnel. The outside circumference is to be
twenty-one
inches with a border
showing the five principal campaigns as [..?..] old Gothic letters surrounding
a
cluster in full colors
of the aircraft identification markings of all the nations which have
participated in
TAF since its inception.
It is being made by the world famous Ginora China factory at Sesto near
Florence and is priced
at $1.25 each. Orders were taken for a hundred and seventy-eight of them today
and there will probably
be another hundred dissatisfied lads tomorrow when they discover that the
orders have already gone
in......Rumor has it that a Squadron plane is to go to Cannes, France every
five days for rest
leave. Thus far Cannes has only been open to officers – apparently enlisted men
aren't supposed to be interested
in France......The first orientation lecture was held in the mess-hall this
evening. S/Sgt. Goodrich
lectured on the Dumbarton Oaks Conference to the thirty man audience but
in spite of the limited
attendance the discussion turned out to be quite heated and
informative........No
movie tonight......
25th
Stand-down in effect all
day. However, operations bulletin board was covered with a training program
of transition and
practice formation. The boys would much rather go on a mission than participate
in
the training program so
a stand-down can't actually be considered a day off......Lt. Donovan came back
to the Squadron today
following a lengthy sojourn in Rome. He was with Lt. Broos who has been over
there since the first of
the month and is still there. Both of them have finished their missions and
neither
are very anxious to get
home. Blood plasma will have to be sent over to Broos if he remains much
longer......489th lost
three ships over the target today which is anything but an encouraging note for
combat men. Missions
seem to be getting rougher everyday, but nothing is done to lower requirement
of a combat
tour......Wholesale promotions of enlisted combat men was announced today.
Promotions
are automatic with
combat personnel and there isn't much [..?..] over [..?..] staff or tech
sergeant......Lt
George Smith is now
secure in his job as Squadron adjutant after being completely reclassified to a
permanent adjutant
status. Capt. Jacobs was sent to the Squadron to assume that duty through a mix
up
in the morning report,
but it has been straightened out now and Capt. Jacobs will probably be assigned
to another duty or
transferred out......Ten radio-gunners are being transferred from this Group to
the
310th, three of which
will be from the 487th. The chosen three are Sgts. Todd, White and
Wilson......”Ladies in
Washington” was shown at the mess-hall this evening......
26th
Udine Supply Dump was
the target for eighteen bombers of the 487th Squadron this morning, but a
heavy haze hung over the
vital target and all bombs were returned to the base. This will be recorded as
a mission for the boys
and represents their first “milk run” in ages even though they didn't hit the
target......Seven lucky
boys finally got off to Cairo early this morning. S/Sgt. Michel found his name
on the schedule last
night and being totally unprepared either financially or physically he was
forced to
cancel his reservation.
This is really a rare item with everyone and their brother knocking themselves
out to make the Cairo
roster......General Knapp, Colonel Chapman and Major Rapp were
observed by
7T going through the
various motions while a movie camera clicked along. Dan Barton was also
photographed with the
General. All this was in conjunction with the P.R.O. build up on the “Dog Face
Squadron”......We now have
six airplanes with more than 100 mission lead by George Laiton's 7X
counting 117, but closely
followed by Paul Hoffman's “hard luck ship” - old 7M. 7M came back from
a mission the other day
all shot up again and for a While we thought “Tuff Stuff Jr.” wouldn't make it,
but the latest report is
that she'll be back in combat before long......No
movie was shown in the
Squadron tonight......
27th
Take-off for eighteen
487th bombers was at 10:40 hours this morning – primary target was Udine
Supply Dump and the
alternate, Lotta di Levenza railroad Diversion. Both targets were bombed
although no startling
results were claimed. Bombs landed on the west side of the supply area and the
other patterns seemed to
surround the railroad diversion without inflicting severe damage to either. The
scant anti-aircraft fire
encountered was out of range......With the exception of a few left-overs every
ground man in the
Squadron has had his physical - tomorrow would finish them all up. Capt.
Kendall
probably never heard of
so many ailments or reasons to go home in his entire career. However, the
examination was more or
less routine and it's rather doubtful that even the sickliest was found to be a
physical
wreck......Today everyone was lamenting Gen. Arnold's statement that most
airmen in the
European Theater would
go immediately to the Pacific when Germany is defeated. A tour of China is
something to look
forward to alright, but a detour through the States would certainly be
appreciated.
Morale is apparently a
very minor consideration on the part of the High Command......The new messkit
boiler was finished and
put into service today. It is really quite elaborate and serves a very good
purpose although with an
imminent move in the offing it seems like a lot of work for the value
received......”Together
Again” was shown in the mess-hall tonight. It was a new picture and one of the
best we've seen in a
long time......
28th
Salorno Railroad
Diversion was the target for twelve 487th bombers this morning. They were over
the
target at 11:33 hours
and a little mix-up in the radio control caused inaccurate bombing. Four of the
aircraft dropped
prematurely and once returned as a result of the malfunction. There was no flak
encountered which gives
this mission the title of being the first “milk run” in quite some time. If
they
aren't hit they're
usually at lest fired upon, but not even one burst was heard today......The
mail
situation has improved
considerably within the last week. “Beaucoup” letters came in tonight, some
dated as late a February
20th which is darn good time in any country and particularly this outpost of
civilization. Neslon's
disposition still varies with the amount of mail received, consequently we haven't
seen a smile for over a
week now......Half of the “Skyliner” band came back to the Island last night to
play a fob at El Rousse.
We expected them back permanently by this time, but they haven't made the
recording as yet and
will return to Rome tomorrow morning. The boys are really getting a vacation
out
of this deal......A correspondent artist and Col. Chapman ere down in the Squadron
this afternoon
viewing Sgt. Moore's
[dogface] art work. Many compliments were passed back and forth and the artist
seemed
very much impressed by
Moore's ability as a potential artist......The
western front is moving a little bit
now, but it's nothing
like the Russian offensive. However, it's steady and may develop into the long
awaited drive. Radio
secrecy is now covering the drive on Cologne and the latest news has the Allies
within nine miles of the
great industrial city. The Russians are also still on the move......No movie
was
shown in the Squadron
tonight......
Transcribed by Dan
Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions, etc.
Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
i. Losses in Action
Edgar E. Evarts
David D. Heater
j. Personnel who have
distingushed themselves in action
Marion C. Burger
Hubert Conwill
Fred L. Cormack
George Dranchak
Myron E. Erickson
Richard F. Evans
nelson Halstead
Raymond S. Heckman Jr.
Walter V. McVee
Edward W. Oviatt
Alton W. Parker
John Polanko
The following flying
personnel of this organization have been awarded Air Medal and Clusters thereto
for the period covered:
Bernard Albert
Walter Allor
James W. Austin Jr.
Blaise A. Azzara
Theodore J. Bennett
Robert E. Brown
Willard A. Bruce
Marion C. Burger
Marvin K. Carlson
Robert W. Carlson
Thomas W. Cavanagh
George Chipouras
Jerome T. Chumney
Edwin C. Clothier
Hubert Conwill
Fred L. Cormack
David C. Cunard
Duke J. Crosby
David D. Cuthbertson
Henry J. Del Percio
James R. Dempsey
William J. Derby
John H. Downs
Warren A. Downs
Myron E. Erickson
Richard F. Evans
Robert E. Evans
Edgar E. Evarts
James B. Fitzgerald
Alleson J. Forrister
Charles F. Fredericks
Jr.
Frank F. Fronek
Jack J. Frost
Pierre P. Garven
Bert M. Gifford
George Gifford
Robert N. Gist
Harry J. Glattle
Tony J. Gucwa
Dwain D. Gull
Nelson Halstead
Edward J. Hardisky
Werner M. Hartman Jr.
David D. Heater
Raymond S. Heckman Jr.
James V. Heming
Thomas A. Hetzel
Emmett O. Holbrook
Robert E. Holmes
Kenneth R. Hopkins
John K. Houston
Kenneth W. Hovermale
Charles E. Jones
Frank L. Jones
Christy M Kara
Adam R. Kelly
Donald M Kenney
Herman H. W. Kiel
Lewis A. Kirk Jr
Howard J. Knaggs
Hubert O. Knauff
Paul S. Kotowski
Wallace L. Krueger
Francis J. La Pierre
Morris Lazarowitz
John E. Leatherwood
Robert E. Lehmkuhl
Roger D. Lewis
Julius Lieberman
Vernon J. Lyle
Morgan C. Mattox
Edwin E. Mattson
Bryant O. Lyons
Arthur W. Merritt
Marlan J. Michel
John C. Miller
Floyd E. Mitchell
Wesley J. Mummert
Paul T. McCormick
Paul E. McDonnell
Charles T. McIlvain
Paul S. McMillen
Walter V. McVee
Harry P. Narwszewicz
William D. Nixon
James M. Oaks
Frederick C. Oldfield
Guy E. Olson
Casimir Olszewski
Edmund F. Papiernik
Alton W. Parker
George W. Patterson
William A. Paul
Carl A. Pennock
Donald A. Peters
Calvin D. Pickell Jr.
John Polanko
Harold Price
Leslie C. Price
Raymond Priest
Joseph F. Quinlin
James R. Rambo
Clifford J. Ramsey
John E. Rapp
John C. Rau
Ira Rifkind
Arthur H. Rigdon
Edward R. Rittersbusch
Thomas H. Rosmarin
James W. Russell
Daniel F. Savage
Darwin H. Selle
Vernon A. Short
James C. Slaughter
Dwayne Q. Smith
Marvin H. Smith
David C. Solether
Kenneth O. Starr
George R. Stejskal
Harold Sterling
Telmo L. Suarez
Kenneth G. Tapert
John E. Taylor
Frank L. Thibault
Nathan G. Thomas
Joseph F. Thornsberry
Joseph J. Tomasek
Robert M. Trollinger
Howard L. Trudell
Charles W. Watson
Jay A. Wight
John J.S. Wisanowski
Ralph L. Woods
Caldwell A. Whipple
Nick Yeonopolus
John J. Zugibe
War Diary March 1945
Started out this month
with poor weather and a stand-down. It looked as though it would rain at any
moment throughout the
day, but unfortunately we were spared the discomforts of a storm. Despite the
soupy sky two planes
took off for Rome – one carrying men going on rest leave and the other was
returning members of the
band who had been over here to play the dance at El Rousse. All band
members will be over in
Rome at least another four days and their orders have been extended.......Cpl.
Balawedjer and his staff
spent the entire day preparing for the Squadron dance tonight. It was made a
little difficult by the
absence of the band, but a recording machine with a public address system was
substituted and worked
out very nicely. Early chow was served in the Enlisted mens mess-hall and the
guests consisting of
approximately twenty girls were served a G.I. dinner at six o'clock. All told
the
dance was about as
successful as any event of its kind could be on the Island of Corsica.......Lt.
Broos
finally returned from
Rome a few days ago looking no worse for the wear. Both he and Lt. Donovan
are now preparing to
depart for the "Old Country" consequently they have been entertaining
scavengers
for the past few days.
Sgts. Whipple and Woods have been doing the honors in this case......The area
was like a cemetery all
morning and afternoon following the announcement of a stand-down. Bastia
entertained all those
who could get there and the "sack" took care of the personnel who
remained in the
area. Enlisted men went
to Bastia expecting to indulge in much ice-cream only to find that the
schedule has been
changed again......."Enter Arsene Lupin" was shown at the
"Rialto" this evening. It
was rather late in
getting started as we had to wait until Group had shown it.......
2nd
Crews were on the trucks
enroute to Group briefing this morning when a stand-down was declared.
Inclement weather both
here and over the target caused the cancellation of the mission. Clouds were
low and threatening all day
with a very occasional burst of sunshine which is quite different from the
spring-like days we have
been enjoying up until recently.......T/Sgt. Paul McMillen, worried about the
increasing flak over
Italian bridges, states that when the Germans cease operations in Italy he will
drop
his P.X. rations to them
instead of bombs as a token of his appreciation. Paul has over thirty missions
now and we thought he
was crazy when he gave up the mess-hall for the wild blue yonder. He'll
probably finish up and
be home before we even leave Corsica.......A new man transferred into the
Squadron today from a
NORBS Ordnance Depot near Bastia. He came in upon the recommendation of
Sgt. Todd and will fly
as tail-gunner. It seems rather strange that new men can come in and start
flying
when there are plenty of
old men who have been trying to get on flying status ever since they've been
in the outfit.
Considerable dissatisfaction has arisen from this deal........Another quota of
men were due
to leave for Cannes this
morning, but weather prevented take-off. Officers are still the only Group
personnel entitled to
leave in France......."77" is still down in Cairo awaiting a four
hundred inspection
consequently the
Squadron will have to send a crew-chief down. No doubt every crew-chief on the
line
will speak for this
job......No movie was shown tonight.......
3rd
Primary target for today
was the San Margherita railroad bridge, but turbulent weather forced the
formation to Peschiera
railroad bridge, the alternate. Gun positions at San Margherita were attacked
by
the phosphorus element,
but the twelve ship bomber formation missed the bridge completely and their
pattern covered a nearby
village. The phosphorus element either silenced the anti-aircraft guns or else
they had moved out
because no flak was encountered......Shortly after the mission, all Pilots were
herded into a truck and
taken down to Group for a general chewing. The main bitch was the fact that
the men are carrying on
too many personal conversations over the interphone during the mission.
Perhaps the
"chewing" wouldn't have been so severe if they had hit the target
today.......The area was in
ship shape today in
anticipation of an inspection, but the inspection never took place. Saturday
has
been designated as the regular
inspection day.......A line formed at the mess-hall over an hour before
"Meet Me in St.
Louis" was to be shown. By the time everyone was in, the mess-hall was
packed all
the way to the rear.
Rather than have two showings the boys "sweat" it out in discomfort
although most
agree that it was light
and entertaining to the war weary 487th veterans.......
4th
San Ambrogio railroad
Overpass was the target for twelve 487th bombers this morning. Bomb patterns
covered the tracks and
crossed the intersection which should net us 100% bombing accuracy for the
mission. Weather was
excellent and no anti-aircraft fire was encountered, classifying this as a
"milk
run" for the 487th
Squadron......Group Provost Sergeant, PFC D'Olivo was down in the area
yesterday
equipped with pistol and
all the airs of a big shot detective to pick up our tailor. We were under the
impression that he was a
Yugoslav, but investigation proved him to be a deserter from the Italian Army.
How he ever got into the
Yugoslav detachment attached to Group is a mystery......Infantry volunteers
were requested by a memo
placed on the Bulletin Board this morning. T/Sgt. Liphardt and Cpl. Burke
jokingly submitted their
names – much to their chagrin the Orderly Room accepted the applications.
Needless to say they
were both relieved to find out that the Orderly Room was also joking. However,
the request for
infantrymen is in all seriousness. A number of the boys are quite worried, but
it is
thought that only
undesirables will be forced to go. No one has greeted the prospect with much
enthusiasm because
there's a possibility that more drastic measures to procure infantry recruits
will be
made later......No movie
was shown in the Squadron.....
5th
Stand-down was in effect
throughout the Group today on account of weather conditions over the target.
However, weather
condidtions on the Island were rather pleasent and many took to the mountains
providing they could
procure transportation. All the S-2 enlisted personnel accompanied by T/Sgt.
Liphardt and Cpl. Burke
went out in search of scenic delights equipped with camera. No doubt we'll be
seeing many picturesque
scenes of Corsica in the near future.......A small graveyard has been
consecrated near the
Supply tent. White crosses bear the names of two Squadron dogs who made one
mission too many across
the busy road. They are not being mourned, however, because for every dog
lost at least two more
appear on the scene daily. The dogs aren't exactly of the show animal variety,
but
they always seem to win
the affection of the Squadron. Capt. Klebes' "Lily Marlen" is even
beginning
to look nondescriptive
in breed, perhaps as a result of her associations........Packages and a few
letters
came in late this
evening which did nothing for Cpl. Nelson's disposition, but he distributed it
anyway....."A Tree
Grows In Brooklyn" was shown in the jam packed mess-hall tonight. We
always
seem to acquire many
guests when a good picture is on the program.
6th
Twelve ships of the
487th Squadron took off at 10:08 hours to bomb a railroad bridge at Ora, Italy.
The
formation's 48,000 lb.
bomb load was released from 11300' with only a fair degree of success. The
first
box bombed the road
bridge south of target while the first element of second box is believed to
have hit
the railbridge. Second
element dropped short of target due to premature release. Heavy, scant and
inaccurate anti-aircraft
fire was encountered, but no damage was inflicted on our aircraft. All planes
and crews returned
safely to the base.......1st/Sgt. Parkins spent a good deal of his time this
P.M.
constructing a dog house
for the two Water Spaniels presented to himself and Major Bugbee by their
friend, "The Ole
Man" from the Mountains. The pups are only two weeks old and were the
center of
attraction for the
numerous apparent dog facniers we have in our midst. Lt. Oviatt was today
receiving
congratulations on his
promotion to the rank of captaincy......Just about half of the contingent who
have
spent more than twelve
days in Rome making a recording with the "Skyliners" returned to the
Squadron today, The
other half are expected to return tomorrow – the experience turned out to be a
"furlough" for
everyone connected in any way with the orchestra.......Five planes of this
Squadron did
some local flying tonight
in preparation for anticipated night missions in the near future – an ordeal
which
no one, particularly
combat crew members, relish.......No movie was shown in the Squadron
tonight......
7th
Mission Documents Ossenigo
/ Legnago RR Brs
At 10:10 hours this
morning twelve 487th Squadron planes took off to bomb the Peri Corinche
railroad
Fill and enemy gun
positions in Northern Italy. The formation reached the designated area at 12:01
and
released their bomb
load, but not too successfully. The first box started at river bank and
extended
across the north end of
the Fill. The second box bombed short and to the right of the Fill. Phosphorus
element did not drop
because flight was slightly south of course and Bombardier could not pick up
target in time.
Anti-aircraft fire was heavy, moderate and accurate, slightly holing three of
our ships.
All planes and crews
returned safely to the base......General Knapp was on hand at 2:00 P.M. this
afternoon to present
awards to the flying personnel. The ceremony took place in the Enlisted Mans
Red Cross Club as has
been the custom since the cold weather set in......Capt. Jacobs who was
recently
assinged to the Squadron
as Personnel Equipment Officer today took on a new duty – that of mess
officer. Lt. Krebs who
has been acting in that capacity for the past few months was glad to be
relieved
of the duty – so tis
said......Major Bugbee and the rest of the "Skyliner" troupe returned
from Rome
today after an eventful
14 day rest period in the Eternal City. Everyone enjoyed doing the recording so
much that they advocate
monthly transcriptions – especially since it takes so much time to get things
in
order – at that rate all
concerned could spend at least four days out of every month at their regular
Squadron
duties......."The Thin Man Goes Home" with William Powell and Myrna
Loy was the screen
attraction shown in the
mess-hall tonight.......
8th TOP
The railroad bridge at San
Margherita in Northern Italy was once more the target for twelve ships of
our Squadron. The
bombers together with three ships loaded with phosphorus bombs for enemy gun
positions at Ala took
off at 09:16 hours and reached the target area at 11:23. Due to a complete
cloud
coverage over the
railroad bridge the main formation did not drop and returned the bomb load to
the
base. However, the
phosphorus element is believed to have covered the gun positions at Ala with a
high degree of success. Heavy,
moderate and accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered, holing five of
our airplanes. All
planes and crews returned safely......Lts. Lantz, Robb, Sgts. Angelini,
Gerbara,
Ramsey and Dinkler
departed this morning for Naples to await the vessel which will return them to
"Gods
Country." All of them have completed a tour of combat and are anxious to
become U.S.O.
Commandos back in the
States. Fresh eggs for breakfast this morning had everyone on deck early so as
not to miss the
delicacy. There is a noticable difference in the number of men who eat
breakfast when
fresh eggs are on the
menu – otherwise it's not worth getting out of the "sack" for. This
afternoon at
5:30 the recording which
took our orchestra members fourteen days to make was played over the
amplifying system for
the benefit of the entire Group. The result was pleasing to the ear especially
our
own Dallas Hunton's
rendition of the "Talking Blues"......There was no movie shown in the
Squadron
tonight.......
9th
Mission Documents San
Margherita N./ Ala RR Brs
Nine ships of the 487th
Squadron took off at 12:35 hours to attack targets in the Brenner Pass Line.
Three ships with a
phosphorus bomb load attacked gun positions at Ala while the main formation
attacked the railroad
bridge at San Margherita. Both flights released their bombs successfully on
their
objectives. The gun
positions were well covered and the railroad bridge received several direct
hits.
No enemy anti-aircraft
fire or other opposition was encountered thus chalking up another "milk
run"
for the boys.......Lt.
Wheaton who has been "relaxing" in the Squadron for the past six
months, left
today for the 57th
Fighter Group and we hope an assingment to some specific duty......Fresh eggs
for
breakfast and chicken
for dinner made the day seem like something special. If there had been a
delivery of mail
everything would have been perfect, but such a day cannot be found in the
Army......Lts. Bruce and
Donovan spent the afternoon getting ready for the return trip home when they
learned their papers
were in Group. "Lake Placid Sarenade" was the picture shown in the
mess-hall
tonight........
10th
At 10:35 hours fifteen
of our ships took off to bomb a railroad diversion bridge and gun positions
near
Carsarsa in Northern
Italy. Due to a heavy undercast from the Initial point to the vicinity of the
target,
the formation returned
to the base with their bomb load intact. No anti-aircraft fire or other enemy
opposition was
encountered......1st Lt. Briar today reported in the Squadron as a replacement
for one of
our S-2 officers – just
which of the officers is to go home on rotation is not knwn and probably won't
be decided until Capt.
Linthicum returns from his extended tour in Cairo......Clusters to the
Distinguished Unit Badge
were distributed today to original ground crew members. Additional battle
stars are expected to be
given out at a later date......Sgt. Hetzner has been entertaining his cousin, a
B-
24 Bombardier from the
Foggia area. He was quite impressed with the set-up in Corsica as compared
with his own
outfit......No movie in the area tonight......
11th
Twelve of our aircraft
were in the air at 10:44 hours to participate in an attack upon a railroad Fill
at
Staz Cerano in Northern
Italy. The formation was over the target area at 12:27 and dropped their
bombs from an altitude
of 11700'. A compact pattern struck the embankment immediately to the right
of the tracks. A barrage
of heavy, moderate and accurate anti-aircraft fire was out of range for our
formation, consequently
no damage was inflichted on our planes and all returned safely to the
base......A new Red
Cross girl was on hand at the interrogation today and gave the boys a new
incentive
for eating those
"soggy" donuts – many favorable comments were heard about the
"new Gal".......Sgt.
Rexford whom everyone
thought would by this time be enroute to the U.S., today returned to duty after
being released from a
general hospital in Naples – better luck next time"Red"......PFC Joe
Sita who has
been on th esick list
for the past five weeks was recently transferred to a General Hospital for a
complete check-up.
"Joe" is in need of U.S. rehabilitation and we're hoping for the best
in his
case.......Fresh eggs for
breakfast again today supplemented with fresh oranges brought to the Island
from Tripoli – better
food always makes for a higher standard of morale........No movie shown in the
Squadron tonight.......
12th
A stand-down was in
effect all day for our Squadron, although the rest of the Group continued
attacks
on targets in the
Brenner Pass Route.......Ideal weather on the Island induced all the boys to
engage in
games of Volley Ball and
Baseball. The first practice of the season for the base-ball team took place
this afternoon. Many
members from last years winning team are still with us and many more potential
aces can be obtained
from the combat crews, which should produce another winning
aggregation.......Sgts.
Conwill, Leatherwood, Zugibe, Kelly and Cavanagh were celebrating today with
mission whiskey thay
have been saving for the past few months. Between them they had accumulated
two full quarts and
today was the day picked to kill the bottles. Needless to say all concerned
were
gloriously inebriated and
provided much laughter during the supper hours......Another U.S.O. show
"The Blues
Busters" provided entertainment for the Group with two performances played
to capacity
audiences and were well
received. In addition to this entertainment at the E.M.'s Red Cross Club, the
picture
"Destiny" starring Gloria Jean was shown in our own mess-hall.......
13th
A railroad bridge at
Perca in Northern Italy was the target for twelve of our bombers today. Takeoff
was at 10:15 hours. The
formation was over the bridge at 12:25 and dropped their bombs from 11100',
but not very
successfully. The first box cratered tracks west of bridge. The second box
crossed the east
approach. The first box
dropped on 1st pass, 2nd box on second run over the objective. No anti-aircraft
fire or other enemy
opposition was encountered, chalking up another "milk run" for the
boys......Rumor
has it that we shall be
leaving the Island the end of this month for the vicinity of Rimini. Our stay
on
Corsica has been too
long and most everyone is anxious to be on the move even though it entails much
work for all concerned.
Being on the Mainland once more should boost morale for another period. If a
change of location will do
anything for the "war-weary" 340th personnel, particularly the ground
men,
we better get
going......A sizeable amount of first-class mail for two days in a row is
something unusual
for this Squadron, but a
well accepted gesture......Sgt. Lowe and PFC Powell have taken over the duties
as Sergeants of the
guard, replacing S/Sgt. Whalen and Mabe who have received their papers
returning
them to the
U.S........No picture was shown in the Squadron tonight.......
14th
Cittadella by-pass in
Northern Italy was once more the target for twelve of our aircraft. One plane,
due
to engine trouble was
forced to return shortly after takeoff, but the alternate ship took over and
the
formation reached their
objective at 13:30 hours dropping their bombs from 10300'. The first box hit to
the right of the wet
span landing and approach to the wet span. Second box dropped short and walked
up to the bridge with
possible hits. No anti-aircraft fire was encountered on this mission. However,
two enemy fighters
approached the formation at the Initial Point, but were chased by our escort.
All
planes and crews
returned safely to the base.......S/Sgt. Whalen, Mabe and Powers left the
Squadron
this morning for Naples
and a boat which will return them to the States for rehabilitation after flying
a
combat tour......The
ideal spring like weather enjoyed on the Island these days is bringing out our
Athletes in number.
Volley Ball, Baseball and tossing around the foot-ball is the order of the
day......Packages, but
no first-class mail came in this afternoon which isn't too good for morale.
However, a very good
picture "My Reputation" starring Geroge Brent and Barbara Stanwyck
brought
the day's activities to
an end.......
15th TOP
Rovereto railroad bridge
was again the target for twelve 487th bombers this morning. Three phosphorus
ships preceded the
bombers over the target and succeeded in silencing a few of the guns. However,
one
ship was holed and its Pilot,
Lt. Evarts, was slightly wounded as a result of anti-aircraft fire. Both
bomb patterns crossed
the center of the bridge, one in the smoke of the other. Direct hits were
believed
to have been scored on
the target......Today marks the nineteenth day for the boys down in Cairo and
Alexandria. It's a good
deal for them, but no doubt Cairo will be off the list for the 487th personnel
from now on. Funny how
one man can make the entire organization suffer for his pleasure. Capt.
McGiffin is really in
the dog house this time, but it won't make any difference to him because his
orders are in to go
home. All this was brought up at a general bitch meeting held by the
"wheels" tonight
for all combat crew
members.......Six bottles of beer per man were dispensed today. Several cases
of
Ale were included in the
ration, but they say it was none too good......Sgt. J.G. Johnston has been
relieved of his
assignment as switchboard operator and assumed the duty of I & E clerk
working with
Capt. Shear all in one
day. No doubt he'll find this work much more interesting and to his
liking......No
movie was shown in the
Squadron tonight.......
16th
The Squadron sent up two
six ship formations today, the first of which bombed San Ambrogio railroad
bridge. Bomb pattern hit
on north approach, but no hits were believed to have been scored on the
bridge. Flak was not
encountered and all planes returned safely to the base. Second mission of six
ships was our first to
Austria and caused no end of apprehension on the part of combat crew men. The
Brixlega west railroad
bridge fifty miles south of Munich was the target. All apprehension was in vain
as no opposition was met
and the well placed bomb pattern crossed the east side of the bridge......After
twenty days in Cairo and
Palestine all men except Capt. McGiffin returned to the Squadron tonight.
Loaded down with
purchases and almost completely out of funds they reminesced their pleasant
sojourn. Naturally a
very good but expensive time was had by all.......Work on the excavation of a
new
latrine was commenced
this morning. With rumors of moving afloat the project doesn't seem very
logical, but such
activity is consistent with Army tradition.......General Knapp was present
today to
make heroes out of
numerous men by pinning on Silver Stars, D.F.C.'s, Bronze Stars, Air Medals
etc.
The decoration ceremony
was held outdoors this time and twelve men from each Squadron were
provided as honor
guard......"Hargrove Square" was shown in the mess-hall tonight – no
good.......
17th
Mission Documents Aldeno RR
Fill
Twelve 487th bombers
took off at 10:23hours this morning to attack the Aldeno railroad Fill in
northern
Italy. Only six ships
bombed the primary with the main pattern hitting tracks to the right of target.
Some bursts were
observed on the Fill, possibly from one a/c of first box which dropped on
primary.
The first box bombed the
alternate, Bozzolo railroad bridge scoring hits on the wet span just right of
center. Anti-aircraft
fire encountered was inaccurate causing no damage or losses.......Cpl.
"Herb"
Grupp spent the day
bidding everyone a fond farewell. He is leaving tomorrow morning for Naples
with his rotation papers
in hand. "Herb" was so happy his head was going around in circles.......T/Sgt.
Liphardt returned from
Cairo this evening wearing a bright red berrat. No one knows the purpose
behind his many chapeaux
other than to extract laughs which is sometimes rather difficult to do in spite
of his efforts.......The
regular weekly inspection of tents and area took place this morning and
although
we have had no report on
the findings it's assumed that all is well. An inspection is scheduled every
Saturday, but it
actually only takes place occasionally........No movie was shown in the Squadron
tonight........
18th
Salarno Railroad Fill
was the target for twelve 487th bombers taking off at 12:10 hours. The first
box
scored direct hits in
center of Fill, but the other box dropped short of the target. There was no
antiaircraft
fire, in fact one crew
members said it was the milkiest of "milk runs." Such missions does
wonders for the morale
of all concerned.......Communications Sections made so much noise last night in
an effort to give Cpl.
Grupp a going away party that section-chief "Joe" Walsh got a chewing
this
morning. Everyone in the
area was well aware of the fact that Grupp was about to depart for the
homeland. In spite of a
morning after complex "Herb" took off this morning bright and
early.......Cpl
Runyon and Lacy Burke spent
the day in digging the hole that will eventually be the new latrine. It
was a punishment for
some misdemeanor committed recently.......Sgt. "Al" Spador returned
from
Naples this afternoon
two days AWOL because he failed to show up at the airport yesterday when two
Squadron ships were
over. We don't expect any more than a warning to come of the
affair.......S/Sgts.
Crosby, Furie and
Leatherwood were promoted to the rank of Tech Sergeant today. All three are on
their second tour and
this is probably their reward. F/O Solether was also promoted to Second
Lieutenant.......A Sqd.
meeting was called this evening to inform all personnel that the Inspector
General would be in the
Group for the next week. Show the man that you are a soldier was the general
trend of the meeting.
1st/Sgt. Parkins conducted the session........
19th
The Squadron ran three
misssions this morning taking off at 11:50, 12:20 and 12:34 respectively. The
first target was Perca
railroad bridge in Northern Italy and the pattern landed north of the target
possibly hitting the
tracks. Muhldorf railroad bridge in Austria was attacked by the second
formation
with good results. They
bombed in the pattern of a previous box scoring hits on the west end of the
bridge. San Michele Fill
caught the bombs of the remaining element directly in the target area.
Strangely enough all
three missions were "milk runs" – no flak whatsoever was encountered.
Three
missions in one day is
unusual for the Squadron, but it really makes the boys feel that they are back
in
the war again which
after almost one year in Corsica is a novelty in itself......7R has now over
600
hours on both engines
and "Uncle Willie" Hoff can be seen daily taking meticulous care of
his "baby."
7X crewed by T/Sgt. Hoff
is running him a close second with 580 hours on both engines. All ships in
M/Sgt. Aul's flight have
over one hundred missions which is responsible for the flight Chief's big
head........Much confusion
appeared today when Lt. Hammond decided he would wait until tomorrow
to leave for home.
Something like that is unbelievable to us, but "Sack" has been
amazing us for the
past two
years......."Girl Rush" was shown at the"Rialto" this
evening.......
20th
Twelve bombers and three
phosphorus ships took off at 08:30 hours this morning to bomb Campo
South Railroad bridge
and Vipiteno gun positions. Both boxes were within the target area scoring hits
on the north end of the
bridge. Phosphorus probably hit gun positions, but observations were difficult
due to intense flak.
Five ships were holed and one crew member, Sgt. Heater, was wounded as a result
of the accurate
anti-aircraft fire encountered over the target. Needless to say the boys will
not request a
repeat performance at
Campo South......The Adjutant General has not appeared on the scene as yet, but
we're living up to
instructions by keeping the area in Central Park order and our person similar
to that
of a USO Commando. He is
expected to be here any day during the week. Major Rapp has decreed
that all recommendations
for awards will be submitted whether the man is through flying or not which
is in compliance with
the new rule that all awards be back on orders before a man's rotation papers
are
put through.
Consequently, all operators are going to extremes in order to forestall that
last cluster
which may hold them up.
Some have gone so far as to erase hits on the chart which entitles them to a
cluster to their Air
Medal. No doubt a regulation on this practice is forthcoming......Baseball
practice
has started in earnest
and there are many potential players for the team this year. If it turns out to
be
anything like last
year's team we may be the theater champions this season.......Lt. Hammond
finally
got off for Naples this
morning. He seemed to have some difficulty leaving the fair haired lass in the
mountains and really
wasn't too anxious to go home. Such a thing is hard to believe, but nontheless
true in this
case.......Lt. Krebs, escorting a bottle of "Old Quaker" around the
area made quite a picture
tonight. He claimed his
cohorts were enroute to the cross-roads where many liquorous and probably
poisonous beverages are
dispensed.......No movie in the Squadron tonight..........
21st
Brennero Marshaling
Yards was the target for twelve 487th bombers this morning, three phosphorus
ships took off to attack
gun positions and one returned early due to mechanical failure. One box hit in
the south center of the
target area, but the second box overshot with possible hits on the tracks.
Antiaircraft
fire was scant and
inaccurate consequently, no damage was done and all planes returned safely
to the base.......At 5:00
P.M. this afternoon the area was almost totally devoid of officers, reason
being a
Squadron Officer's dance
at Il Rousse. A shuttle service was in operation all day and the last one left
immediately after the
mission. Many women and Beaucoup liquor are supposed to be the main
attractions. A
stand-down will be in effect all day tomorrow for the purpose of recuperation
and return
to the
Squadron.......PFC Powell and T/Sgt. Woltkamp have assumed the duties of
Sergeant of the
Guard. No doubt they
will be replaced by some combat crew member who has finished up and is
awaiting his orders. Up
until now that has been the common practice, but when the last two went home
ther were no more combat
men eligible.......News on the Western Front continues to be encouraging
since the fall of
Cologne and the taking of Coblentz. The bridge across the Rhine collapsed at
either
side of the famed
Ramegan structure. Russia isn't saying much and her lines are remaining fairly
static,
but all indications are
pointing toward an all out drive for Berlin in the very near
future......."National
Velvet" with Mickey
Rooney was shown at the "Rialto" this evening........
22nd TOP
A promised stand-down
was in effect all day for the purpose of recuperation on the part of officers
who
attended the dance at Il
Rousse last night. It is difficult to judge whether or not the affair was a
success –
if getting drunk is the
criterion it was a WOW. Stories brought back about our stable officers sleeping
in linen closets and
jitter-bugging with fellow officers were a few of the highlights. Beaucoup
women
was merely a boast which
turned out to be a disappointment because only four Corsican belles
appeared on the scene.
Most officers showed the extent of their celebration today......Wholesale
promotions of enlisted
men were announced today. A combat man goes right up the ladder in nothing
flat once he starts
flying.......Fresh eggs have been on the breakfast menu for so long that we
wouldn't
know how to act without
them. Apparently the Quartermaster has been deluged with the choice
morsals......No movie in
the Squadron tonight........
23rd
Eighteen bombers of the 487th
Squadron were in the air at 10:58 hours this morning enroute to Vo
Sinistro railroad bridge
in Northern Italy. All bombs were within the target area on the tracks and
approach, but only the
third box centered its pattern directly on the target. The primary target ws
not
bombed because the
interphone in the lead ship went out at the I.P. and the second box then took
over
the lead. All planes
returned safely without even seeing any flak, chalking up one more "milk
run" for
the 487th.......General
Eaker was in the Group today and presided at the decoration ceremony this
afternoon. Many men from
the Squadron were decorated and a twelve man guard of honor was also
provided. It is rumored
that General Eaker told the men that he would try to get furloughs for all the
Group before going to
the Pacific. Rumors are so contradictory that it's difficult to ascertain
exactly
what the General did
say.......1st/Sgt. Parkins and a small group of friends took a ride around the
Island
today. The highlite of
the day was an excellent dinner at a restaurant in Bonofacchio.......A U.S.O.
show was put on at the
Red Cross Club tonight and "The Suspect" played in the
Squadron.......
24th
Perca railroad bridge was
the target for six 487th bombers this morning. They were over the target at
13:40 hours scoring
direct hits on the center of the bridge. Bombing was so accurate that the
bridge
appeared to be
demolished. This raid will be chalked up as another "milk run" as no
opposition was
encountered.......It's
beginning to look as though the 340th will actually move off of Corsica
sometime
between now and the
fifteenth of next month. In a way the move will do us good, but we've been here
so long that it seems
like home. They tell us that all buildings in the vicinity are condemed and
that we
will again set up a
completely canvas organization which will necessitate the taking of all lumber.
No
doubt the next few weeks
will consist of numberless details all in preparation for the move.......Capt.
Linthicum called a
combat crew meeting at six o'clock tonight which was nothing more than a
routine
escape procedure
lecture. These affairs are like a streetcar – always one coming.......Sgts.
Goodrich and
Walkes gave forthe with
another orientation lecture tonight on "War Criminals." The meeting
was only
attended by eight men,
but they at least claimed it was an interesting discussion. In some respects
its
more desirable to have a
small attendance, but the purpose of the lectures is to benefit
everybody.......The
baseball team called a practice game again tonight figuring that they need much
practice after the 489th
beat them three to one the other night. Hetzner says that they have plenty of
good material to work
with this year so we should see some real results before the season is
over......
25th
The 487th had fifteen
ships in the air at 10:10 this morning headed for Northern Italy. Three planes
carried chaff and the
bombers attacked Vo Sinistro railroad bridge which was the alternate target.
The
primary was not attacked
due to cloud coverage. The first box fell short of the target and the second
box started on the
bridge and walked over, consequently the degree of damage was not determined by
observation.
Anti-aircraft fire was inaccurate and no damage was incurred on the
formation.......Everyone
is preparing for the move which is supposed to take place soon. 488th and 489th
are going first, but we
will follow in their footsteps. This move promisses to be one of the most
complicated because
everyting that's removable is to be taken.......Optimism has again swept the
Squadron with the mass
crossing of the Rhine announced today. No one can figure out how it can last
much longer, but it
always does......Capt. Kendall gave a lecture on Malaria control tonight with
the aid
of manycharts. He
informed us that this is to be an hourly performance each month from now on.
The
boys found more interest
in the activities of the many canines who also attended the meeting. It will be
a sad day for those dogs
when the 487th departs from the Island.......No movie tonight.......
26th
Stand-down was in effect
all day due to weather conditions. For the first time in several months we
experienced a constant
downpour of rain on the Island. It started last night and continued throughout
the
day leaving combat men
and many ground men no alternative, but to stay in the sack. The Squadron
area was a very sad and
drenched looking plot of ground all day. However, tents are so completely
winterized that no ill-effects
were felt by the occupants.......Two Yank correspondents have been in the
Squadron for the past
two days working with Sgt. Fuiks on PRO material. They were supposed to
leave on a tour of the
Island today taking photographs which will constitute Sgt. Juiks' long dreamed
of
"Holiday in
Corsica" feature. T/Sgt. Lehmkuhl will go with the touring party and pose
as one of the
hilarious G.I.'s
enjoying himself on a "Holiday in Corsica." The trip was postponed
until weather
permits.......Sgt.
Stellato is taking orders for cigarette lighters that are to be picked up on
the Tripoli trip
which was scheduled for
today, but cancelled on account of the weather. The lighters are novel but
nothing to write home
about as far as efficiency is concerned......"Objective Burma" was
shown at the
mess-hall tonight.......
27th
Rain continued last
night and throughout the day consequently, the Squadron enjoyed another
stand-down.
It doesn't seem like a
great deal of water has fallen, but the shower has been constant. There is
nothing more depressing
than a rain especially when under canvas........Capt. McGriffin returned from
Cairo several days ago
and has been pretty tame ever since. Evidently he is going to have to pay for
overstaying his leave
with no apparent good reason. The punishment has not been made known as yet,
but whatever it is it
won't be anything like what an enlisted man would have to pay for such a
misdemeanor. If nothing
else the Captain had a good time anyway......All the boys who volunteered or
who were volunteered by
the Squadron for the Infantry were alerted today. Capt. Kendall gave them
the old one, two and
they're now ready to leave for the twelve week intensive training program. Some
were surprised to learn
that they had been chosen and others were already aware of their fate – no one
was delighted by the
news. There were six in all. 1st/Sgt. Parkins having a little fun, called
Nelson and
told him to report to
the dispensary at once for his "six three." Nelson completely stunned
by the news
said "c'est la
guerre" and reported to Capt. Kendall who carried out the physical in all
seriousness. Lt.
Smith being unable to
see Nelson suffer any longer finally informed him tha tthe whole affair was a
practical joke much to
Nelson's relief. No doubt Nelson wasn't as appreciative of the humor as were
the
instigators.......The dreary day ended with an equally as dreary supper – stew
álà Ivan Johnson.......
28th
Weather over Corsica
cleared today, but apparently the target area was observed by heavy rain clouds
again as a stand-down
was in effect throughout the day. After two days of rain the pleasant
atmosphere
brought all the
athletically inclined out for the various sports Special Service has to
offer......Lt. Azzara
was back at his civilian
profession today. From all appearances he was only available to the
"wheels"
as he limited his
barbering to the rank of Captain and above. No doubt we will be provided with a
professional Italian
barber upon our return to the Mainland. Frank Nasuto has improved with practice,
but judging from the
appearance of most Squadron heads he still could use plenty of experience. A
lot
of the boys have been
letting their hair grow until they got off the Island.......77 finally got off
to Tripoli
and Sicily today for a
load of fresh food. Tripoli is supposed to be closed again consequently, they
will
only be able to land,
return bottles, and take off again, but they should be able to make a pretty
good
haul in
Sicily......."A Song To Remember" was shown in the mess-hall tonight.
Lovers of good music
really enjoyed the
performance........
29th
Another stand-down was
in effect all day. Apparently Northern Italy was again hidden under rain
clouds. A stand-down on
Corsica is nothing more than additional "sack" time because there is nothing
else to do......The
Squadron got word today that S/Sgt. Summers who went down over Trento
Marshaling Yards on
January 20th is now a prisoner of war. The War Department has not advised his
Mother of the fact as
yet although she had a letter from her own Son in Germany. It is not known
whether or not any of
the other crew members got out safely......Sgt. J.G. Johnston who was recently
sent up to Group on
detached service as I & E Clerk has been transferred to Group Headquarters.
Most
anybody but Johnston
would consider it a break......Major Rapp and Capt. Linthicum took off early
this
morning and spent the
day at our new base in Rimini. They seemed very well pleased with the lay-out.
Tentative plans are to have
all offices in buildings, or rather one building, and the Clerks will occupy
the building across the
street. The mess-hall will be in Neeson huts being left by the Fighter Group.
No doubt plans will be
altered many times before we actually make the move so its best to expect
nothing and then be
surprised if that's possible.......Squadron movies are to be shown outside from
now
on which will be much
better because the smoke in the mess-hall after the first reel is unbearable.
However, there was no
movie shown in the Squadron tonight......
30th
After standing down for
three days eighteen bombers of the Sqd. took off at 13:41 hours this afternoon
to bomb Romano di
Lombardi railroad bridge on the Brenner Line. All three bomb patterns centered
on the bridge and direct
hits were achieved by the bombing accuracy. No flak was encountered and all
planes returned safely
to the base.......A parties, B parties and advanced parties are being assembled
for
the move. The bulk of
the Squadron is not supposed to leave until April 12th although it looks like
operations will cease as
of the 7th or 8th of April from this field.......War news is so encouraging
that the
boys have all but their
A-bags packed. The Armies are running through Germany just like they did
France several months
ago. Late announcements have the 1st Army one hundred and fifty miles into
Germany and one hundred
eighty miles from Berlin. Commentators are excited and apparently ready
to announce the end at
any moment. There is a security black-out over the Armies and its difficult to
ascertain their exact
locations – naturally everyone is most optimistic......."Tonight and Every
Night" was
shown at the Squadron
outdoor theater tonight. The outdoor theater consists of a screen at the bottom
of
a hill with spectators
sitting around the hill itself. It is not the most comfortable arrangement and
was
said to be quite chilly
last evening.......
31st
Mission Documents San
Michele RR Br
San Michele North
railroad bridge was again the target for six 487th bombers this morning. There
was
no flak encountered and
the formation made a second run scoring possible hits on the bridge. Needless
to say all combat crew members
are crazy about San Michele – absence of flak would make any target
a favorite......P.X.
rations were dispensed in abundance this morning and early afternoon. With the
nine
bottles of beer we
received yesterday and the amount of rations received today, the convoy to
Rimini
shouldn't be too bad.
However, today's rations are to last for three weeks and it will probably be a
hell
of a lot longer than
three weeks before we get more.......Lt. Smith was paying officer this
afternoon.
Evidently the saluting
practice has been dispensed with permanently as Lt. Smith also requested that
there be no saluting.
Needless to say much money changed hands this evening in the heavy gambling
that always follows the
big day. Money doesn't seem to mean much to the boys over here – they seem
to forget that these
lush days will be over someday and that they'll actually have to go back to
work
again......Six men from
the Squadron left for Naples today and the Infantry Replacement Depot where
they will commence the
much publicized twelve week training program for front line duty.
Unfortunately they left
with hard feelings and claims that they'll be back.......There was no movie
shown at the Squadron
outdoor theater this evening........
Transcribed by Dan
Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
April 1945
[Transcriber's note: Some
entries are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Sgt. James
P. Shanley and Cpl. Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
i. Losses in Action
Edmund F. Papiernick
Linwood E. Davis Jr.
Jay A. Wight
Lee R. Weil
William E. Durie
j. Personnel who have
distinguished themselves in action.
Theodore J. Bennett
Hubert Conwill
William E. Durie
Edgar E. Evarts
Alleson J. Forrester
Dwain D. Gull
Morris Lazarowitz
John E. Leatherwood
Roger D. Lewis
Sweetser Linthicum
Edmund F. Papiernik
Stanley P. Parkins
Carl A. Pennock
Donald A. Peters
John C. Rau
Jay A. Wight
The following flying
personnel of this organization have been awarded Air Medal and Clusters thereto
for the period covered:
Wayland H. Adams Jr.
Cecil L. Adkins
James W. Austin Jr.
Theodore J. Bennett
Irvin A. Baske
Robert E. Brown
Willard A. Bruce
Marion C. Burger
Marvin K. Carlson
George Chipouras
Jerome T. Chumney
Hugert Conwill
Fred L. Cormack
David C. Cunard
Henry J. Del Percio
James R. Dempsey
William E. Durie
Burt R. Dyar
Myron E. Erickson
Delos Ervine
Richard F. Evans
Robert E. Evans
Edgar E. Evarts
David W. Feltus
James B. Fitzgerald
Alleson J. Forrister
Frank F. Fronek
Pierre P. Garven
Bert M. Gifford
George Gifford
Robert N. Gist
Harry J. Glattle
Chester M. Gretz
Tony J. Gucwa
Dwain D. Gull
Edward J. Hardisky
Werner M. Hartman Jr.
David D. Heater
James V. Heming
Thomas A. Hetzel
Emmett O. Holbrook
Robert E. Holmes
Kenneth R. Hopkins
John K. Houston
Kenneth W. Hovermale
Charles E. Jones
Frank L. Jones
Adam R. Kelly
Donald M. Kenney
Howard J. Knaggs
Wallace L. Krueger
Francis J. La Pierre
Morris Lazarowitz
John E. Leatherwood
William A. Lee Jr.
Robert E. Lehmkuhl
Roger D. Lewis
Julius Lieberman
Vernon J. Lyle
Morgan C. Mattox
Arthur W. Merritt
David J. Mershon
Marlan J. Michel
John C. Miller
Floyd E. Mitchell
Paul T. McCormick
John M. McCullough
Paul E. McDonnell
Charles T. McIlvain
Paul S. McMillen
Harry P. Naruszewicz
William D. Nixon
James M. Oaks
Frederick C. Oldfield
Guy E.Olson
Oscar E. Olson Jr.
Casimir Olszewski
John M. O'Riley
Edmund F. Papiernik
George D. Parks
Olan B. Parrish
George W. Patterson
William A. Paul
Carl A. Pennock
Donald A. Peters
George R. Pew
John Polanko
Harold Price
Leslie C. Price
James R. Rambo
Clifford J. Ramsey
John C. Rau
Frank N. Reynolds
Ira Rifkind
Arthur H. Rigdon
Edward R. Ritterbusch
James W. Russell
Vernon A. Short
Douglas F. Shoun
Dwayne Q. Smith
Marvin H. Smith
David C. Solether
Joe A. Spieri
Kenneth O. Starr
Telmo L. Suarez
John E. Taylor
Harry R. Telander
Frank L. Thibault
Joseph F. Thornsberry
Joseph J. Tomasek
Robert M. Trollinger
Howard L. Trudell
Lawson T. Ware
Charles W. Watson
Caldwell A. Whipple
Jay A. Wight
Nick Yeonopolus
John J. Zugibe
War Diary April 1945
Easter Sunday morning
brought forth the the first concrete evidence that the 487th Squadron was
actually going to move.
Following an Easter Sunrise Service on the banks of the sea just opposite the
488th Area first
elements began packing equipment for departure the following day. 488th and
489th
were the first to leave
for Italy via combat aircraft, C-47's and motor convoy. The 487th began
shuttling
equipment and men over
on the second of April and mostly everything with the exception of a rear
party and heavy
equipment was at the new filed by the Seventh of the Month. Combat personnel
and
aircraft were supposed
to take off for a mission from Alesan on 7 April 1945 and land at Rimini,
however, a stand-down
was declared at the last minute and they took off for the new field in the
afternoon.
Administrative activities other than immediate essentials closed down on the
first of the
month and were not fully
resumed until April 15th when all elements arrived at Miramare. The rear
party at Alesan busied
themselves taking down the mess-hall, orderly room, latrines and generally
cleaning up. All usable
lumber from any 487th buildings and the officer's club was bundled and totted
down to the docks at
Bastia for shipment to the new field. No one until they started lifting it had
any
idea how much lumber had
been acquired by the Squadron during its sojourn in Corsica. However,
after several days of back-breaking
details there was a lull which allowed everyone plenty of sack time.
Yugoslavs attached to
the Squadron and Group worked endlessly on policing and hauling whatever was
considered refuse away.
When the rear party pulled out on the morning of April 12th the cow pasture
we occupied looked
exactly as it did the day we landed there one year previous. Our departure
meant
the end of the war for
that Corsican farmer. Personnel remaining at the 486th and Headquarters enjoyed
our delectable food
served in the officers mess after the EM's mess has been taken down. Apparently
the QM was liquidating
his stores as the food was actually worthy of praise. In between meals the boys
made many trips to the
hills and local vino emporiums. The results of the escapades, particularly the
vino was quite obvious
in many cases. On the morning of April 12th the only remaining latrine and
personnel tents were
taken down and the last elements of the 487th Bombardment Squadron departed in
a cross water and county
convoy. What remained of Group Headquarters shared our convoy. The only
building left standing
in our area was the officers mess hall which was left for the farmer in payment
for the stable we
destroyed for slit trench material following the Luftwaffe's raid. Incidentally,
the
farmer got the best of
that deal. Some of the boys left Corsica with regret, but for the majority it
was a
pleasure. A heavy
equipment convoy under the command of Lt. Raber left Alesan on the night of
April
6th taking the Southern
route and arriving at Rimini three days later. Major Bugbee led the main
convoy to a staging area
near the Bastia docks where the cooks set up stoves and prepared a hot cration
dinner. Following that
gastronomical delight the convoy began loading on LST's and by sundown
the job was completed.
At day break of April 13th the ship convoy sailed from Bastia arriving at
Leghorn that same day in
the early afternoon. The news of the President's death was announced during
the voyage and although
there was no demonstration it was felt deeply. The ship was thoroughly
policed and vehicles
unloaded in time for the motor convoy to progress on to the Staging Area at
Pontessiave about ten
miles beyond Florence. What little we saw impressed us with the ferocity of the
Italian campaign. Italy's
modern Fascist Cities were completely sacked and many of them are just one
huge pile of rubble
while in others only the mere skeleton of elaborately modern buildings remain.
It
was dark when we went
through blacked out Florence which was quite disappointing. At the staging
area which was a former
oil storage we had a pretty fair hot meal and bedded down for the night. On the
following morning the
convoy separated, heavy vehicles and trailers unable to get through the
mountainous Northern route
took the Southern route by way of Perugia and Fano arriving at Rimini on
the fifteenth of April
one day later than the others. Capt. Tasker was responsible for this convoy.
Major Bugbee's light
convoy took the treacherous mountain route with its improvised passes
necessitated by Allied
Bombing and German demolition. It was hectic, but also proved interesting to
disgusted veterans of
the Italian campaign. After that trip we are unable to figure out how the
Allies
have progressed to the
present fighting front. At two PM the convoy pulled into the once swank
Adriatic resort town of
Miramare to find the Squadron settled in windowless and partially destroyed
beach houses. However,
they were enjoying the luxury of the surroundings – mail service and
excellent meals provided
by the 488th Squadron. Throughout the entire period the Squadron remained
operational attacking
front line troop concentrations and bridges in the vital Brenner Route.
The following missions
were carried out during the period covered:
From Alesan:
First box bombed the
east bridge with pattern centered on the bridge. Second box bombed the west
bridge possibly hitting
bridge, but observations were not positive. No flak was encountered.
1. Steinach Railroad
bridge and tunnel: Bombing was done on third pass. The pattern started on
the bridge and extended
into the tunnel mouth. No flak was encountered.
2. Fornovo de Taro
Railroad bridge: The bomb pattern was centered on the bridge slightly right of
center. Two spans of the
bridge were observed to be down after turnoff. No flak was
encountered.
3. Colle Isarco East
Railroad bridge: Bomb pattern hit slightly over on the east approach with
possible hits on the
bridge. No flak.
Mission Documents Calliano
/ Rovereto RR Brs
First box did not bomb due
to Bombardier failing to pick up target. Second box pattern was not fully
observed because of flak
hits just as bombs were away knocking out sight. Phosphorous bombs hit in
area left of gun
positions. Seven ships were holed and F/O Papiernik was slightly wounded as a
result
of intense flak.
Only three ships bombed
with poor results. No anti-aircraft fire was encountered.
From
Pattern hit left side of
gun positions. Inaccurate flak was encountered.
The first box landed on
the northwest portion of the target area. The second box did not drop due to a
misidentification. The
third box started at the south center of the target area and walked across the
entire center portion.
Flak was inaccurate and no damage was done.
1.
Laveszola
Troop Concentrations – 12 ships.
Both patterns believed
to have crossed eastern half
of target area, but
accurate observation was difficult due to evasive action. Fires were observed
emitting from areas
around the buildings. One aircraft was holed as a result of flak
encountered.
2. Mass Lombarda
Communications Center – 16 ships. First and second patterns covered west
portion of north half of
target area. Third pattern began at extreme north end of target area and
extended into the fields
beyond. Inaccurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered.
1. San Margherita North
Railroad Bridge – 6 ships. Pattern fell on the south side of the San
Margherita South bridge.
This bridge was hit due to misidentification of target. Flak was
negligible.
2. Ala Railroad Bridge –
6 ships. Pattern centered on the south approach to the bridge with
possible hits on the
bridge. Inaccurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered.
3. Bastia Troop
Concentrations – 18 ships.
All three patterns centered within the target
area. Antiaircraft
fire was accurate
starting one minute before bombs away and continuing through the
breakaway. T/Sgt. Durie
was seriously wounded, F/O Wiel, Lts. Davis and Wight were slightly
wounded. Seven bombers
were severely holed.
1. Chuisaforte West
Railroad bridge and Postumia Railroad bridge as alternate – 12 ships. The
first box bombed the
primary target with pattern crossing the west end of the bridge. The
second box bombed the
alternate target and hit in buildings west of the bridge. No opposition
was encountered..
2.
Argenta
North Troop Area – 9 ships.
Mission Documents Argenta N
troops
The pattern started at
the edge of the target area and
extended into the center
with a fire noted in the northern part of the area growing larger as our
formation broke off.
Heavy, but inaccurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered.
1. Praduro Army Troop
Area – 12 ships. Both boxes were hampered by very heavy ground haze
although their pattern
landed within the target area. No opposition was met.
2. Medicina Troop
Concentrations – 6 ships. All bombs were returned because Bombardier could
not kill rate on special
equipment. Three ships were holed as a result of the heavy ground fire
encountered.
April 16th TOP
Three targets were named
today and practically all day planes were taking off or preparing to do so.
The first two missions
were attacking Bologna West Railroad bridge, however, the first element
returned due to the
weather and the second returned with bombs due to the malfunctioning special
equipment which doesn't
seem to be too successful with this Squadron. The late mission aimed at the
Argenta North Troop Area
also returned without dropping as the Bombardier could not identify the
target. All in all we
had a busy but most unsuccessful day.......Conditions at Miramare are beginning
to
shape up although there
is still plenty of fixing up to be done. All administrative offices are in what
is
known as the
Administration Building, a former modern Italian villa. It is in the best
condition of any
of the Squadron
buildings, all white with blue shutters and numerous balconies with stairs
leading to a
roof garden. The Orderly
Room, Executive Offices, Message Center and Special Service are on the
second floor with
Operations, S-2 and War Room on the first. There are several rooms still
unoccupied
which will probably be
delegated to something or other within the near future. As far as the offices
are
concerned, “we never had
it so good.” Civilian help has been engaged to keep the place clean and at all
hours of the day Italian
women are sweeping or mopping and generally keeping the place in order.
Supply and the Motor Pool
have not been completely set up as yet although they have reserved an
abandoned outdoor
movie.......Surprisingly at this late date the mess hall is still in the
formative stages.
There is one Nissen Hut being
used as a dining room and part of a pre-fab as a kitchen. Wash lines are
endless and the washing
water is filthy signifying the early stages of setting up. The Squadron's first
concern is usually the
mess-hall, but apparently it has taken a back seat this time......Movies have
not
been inaugurated as yet
although we're especially anxious to get started........
17th
Mission Documents Bologna W
RR Br
First mission took off
this morning at
scant but inaccurate
anti-aircraft fire hampered the twelve ship formation which scored direct hits
squarely in the center
of the bridge. Later in the afternoon another formation of six ships attacked
troop concentrations at
Praduro, Italy. There was no flak encountered and the element's pattern started
short of the target area
and extended across the southwestern corner......Italian classes taught by an
attractive female
university of Bologna graduate will commence in the Squadron next Monday
evening.
Thus far a hundred and
ten have signed up for the course.......For the most part the boys are not set
up
in their new villa homes
as yet, consequently there is much scrounging and repair work going on.
When the natives
evacuated they took everything movable with them including plumbing fixtures
and
windows. The windows are
being replaced by wood or cement and everyone is trying to have running
water restored to their
place.......Attractive girls do the cleaning and bed making in most quarters to
the
tune of one dollar and a
quarter per day........The lumber and left overs and Pre-fabs that came on the
LST with the convoy and
was shipped from Leghorn by rail arrived at Rimini today. A large detail of
combat crew members had
the pleasure of guarding and unloading the stuff......Movies were resumed in
the Group tonight and
the Squadron is expected to follow suit in the near future.......Nothing is any
too
well organized as yet
and its difficult to ascertain exactly what is going on around here.......
18th
Twelve ships took off
this morning at 11:41 hours to bomb Staz di Ceraine Railroad bridge in Northern
Italy. The patterns hit the
south end of the Fill although bombing wasn't thought to be too effective.
All ships returned
safely from this “milk run”.........We have more Italians on the pay roll than
GI's in
the Squadron now.
However, there are no complaints to be registered as they take care of all the
detail
work. If we could only
get someone to take care of guard the set-up would be ideal. A new guard
system has been
inaugurated which calls for four on the first twelve hours and eight off and
repeating
the performance for a period
to three days with nine men to a guard roster. This isn't as satisfactory as
the jeep patrol, but it
may be changed before too long........Since moving to Miramare regulations have
tightened up and the
outfit is getting pretty GI. All clerks and men not doing fatigue duty will
wear
neckties at all times
while everyone in the Squadron will wear the complete dress uniform after six
in
the evening. It seems
peculiar after leaving the rear area of Corsica where we could wear anything we
took a notion to. Apparently
the idea is to impress our British neighbors and the native
populous.......The main
street which is a highway is one of the busiest we've seen in many a day. At
all
hours of the day and
night heavy traffic including many tanks are running up and down the road which
causes the area to be
very dusty and dirty. Further down the road there are several big British,
Polish
and Italian hospitals
taking care of casualties from the front. All told we are in the midst of
considerable activity at
all times.......Effective last night movies will be sown in the Group every
night
except Wednesday......
19th
Six crews were up
exceptionally early this morning for a 0745 hours take-off to bomb Budrio Troop
Concentrations in
Northern Italy. Only inaccurate flak was encountered, but the bombing wasn't
too
accurate starting short
of target and extending about one third into the target area. The second was a
late morning mission
taking off at 1110 hours to attack the Ora Railroad bridge in Northern Italy.
All
told there were nine
ships, six bombers and three phosphorus – both elements succeeded in hitting
the
target. Phosphorus
pattern walked across gun positions and bomb pattern appeared centered on the
bridge. Four ships were
holed as a result of the intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire encountered.
Several days after the
moving commenced Capt. Sterling, the hundred mission man was transferred to
the 51st Troop Carrier
Wing. Everyone is aware of the fact that he wanted to go home, but no one
seems to be able to shed
any light on the reason for transfer. Unofficial reports say that he spoke out
of
turn to the Colonel. Lt.
Heckman was also transferred to a fighter group to fly a second tour following
seventy-two missions
with the Squadron. People do strange things and sounds like one for
Ripley.......About the
only thing we're enjoying the mess-hall these days is the excellent Italian
bread.
Apparently the Army has
made some arrangement with an Italian bakery to make all the bread for this
area and the result is
much more appealing to the taste sense than the GI interpretation of bread.
Other
than that there is
absolutely no change in the daily diet which is definightly not good. Many
complaints
are being registered by
the boys who dined so well at the 488th.........S/Sgt. Jones, a former gunner
with
the 487th who finished
his tour when we were at Foggia stopped in today. His heavy outfit is stationed
near San Pancrazio and
he informs us that they will soon depart for the States after being over for
only
one year. It all looks
very encouraging for our return, but it seems strange that older outfits should
be
the last to go home
unless we will be going permanently rather than to the Pacific.......”Buffalo
Bill”
was shown at the Group
movie tonight.......
20th
Mission Documents Recoaro
Terme Army Gp C HQ
First mission of the day
took off at 1050 hours to bomb the Valorgne Railroad Fill in Northern Italy.
No bombs from this
Squadron's six ship formation were believed to have fallen within the target
area.
They encountered scant
anti-aircraft fire from Ferrara, but it was inaccurate......The target for six
bombers taking off at 1135
hours was the German Headquarters at Rocoara, Italy. They also
encountered flak coming
from Ferrara although this was accurate and one plane was holed. Buildings
#10, #11 and #12 (our
target) were well covered. Direct hits were observed on all three
buildings.......Sgt. Liphardt is having a hell of a time with the house maid
in his building. Walter is one
of these meticulous
persons who might take exception to anything and who must have his bed made in
exactly the same fashion
as it has been for the last twenty-five or thirty years, consequently the
girl's
bed making technique
isn't the same as his and he isn't satisfied. No doubt Liphardt will bring her
around to his way of bed
making in the near future.......The British Tank outfit that has been
maneuvering around the
Squadron area and kicking up the dust for the past few days went into action
last night. However, the
wind took over in their absence and the resulting dust storm which continued
throughout the day
reminded us of the “dessert campaign”.......Several of the boys have made trips
to
the front since being
here, the latest of which was Capt. McGriffin and Lt. Lewis. After spending
some
time with a combat Major
of some kind they came back full of dates. It goes something like this:
Ferrara is to fall
within the next week and probably within twenty-four hours, Bologna will be
encircled withing three
days and the Italian campaign could be over in ten days although it isn't
guaranteed......”Buffalo
Bill” was repeated at the Group movie tonight.......
21st
Three missions were
scheduled for today, but after the first one came back immediately after
crossing
the bomb line the
remainder of the day activities were canceled. The fifteen ship formation that
was to
have attacked Polesella
Railroad bridge encountered flak at Modena holing one ship. However, it was
weather conditions that
forced the formation back.......After sweating out Bologna for months the city
finally fell yesterday
to the Fifth Army. Bologna should be as much cause for celebration as the fall
of
Berlin will be. It was
surprising to learn that Italian Partisans held the center of the important
city for
six days before the
Armies arrived. War news is so good that we can hardly digest it and it all
lends
fruit to the rumor that
we will soon be on our way home......Major Rapp met with a group of key men
this evening that are
supposed to go home immediately to form the nucleus of the new 340th Group
which will go to the
Pacific. Top technical men only are supposed to go home on this deal and the
exact number is not yet
known although they will number around ten or twelve. Col. Chapman is
reported to have said
that he will only take fifteen percent of the Group to the Pacific so it is
quite
obvious that we will
have to be leaving in the very near future in order that the chosen fifteen
percent
may join the
organization in the States. Needless to say no one is anxious to be among the
chosen
lot.......Group Headquarters
has the best deal in the entire organization as far as living conditions are
concerned, of course
that is the typical situation. Their offices and quarters are all in one large
resort
hotel with plenty of
room to spare. It must be wonderful to just come down stairs to find your
breakfast awaiting your
arrival without going outside and waking a couple blocks. The hotel is still
intact and boasts
windows, hot and cold running water in every room and several elaborate
bathrooms
on each floor. A lot of
those boys will hate to go home.......
22nd TOP
Today called for an all
out effort consisting of the record breaking number of four missions. However,
weather permitted but
three canceling out the fourth. All three missions attacked Ferry Stages on the
Po River. The First
mission of 12 ships taking off at 0700 hours and the second raid of six bombers
forty-five minutes later
bombed with success. Poor weather sent the third mission back without
dropping and a
stand-down for the remainder of the day was declared.......T/Sgt. Preswich,
motor pool
sergeant, left yesterday
on an emergency furlough to the States. His successor has not been named as
yet and its doubtful
that there will be one. Pres' last words were that he'd join the outfit in the
States.....Capt. Jacobs
was transferred back to his old organization and has been replaced by Lt. Raber
as mess Officer. Now if
the cooks were replaced we may have some pretty fair meals......Protestant
Services were held in
the big factory occupied by the 520th and 770th Service Units. The building
must
have been a model
automobile factory at one time, but bombs and shell fire have undressed it of
all
former glory. Some [say]
is was a Chrysler Plant. Catholic Mass was said at the little mission church
across from Group
Headquarters in Riccione. It's small be accommodates the boys from this and the
Service Group......Berlin
was entered by Russian Forces this morning much to the pleasure and elation
of all 487th
members......”Untold Glory” was shown at the Group outdoor movie tonight. The
strange
thing about this movie
is that it was actually meant to be an outdoor theater with high walls and a
vine
covered roof. Regular
theater seats are also a feature.......
23rd
Crews were up again
early this morning for a 0647 hours take-off, however, only five bombers got
off
to bomb the Ferry State at
Polesella on the Po. Anti-aircraft fire was heavy and accurate holing one
ship although the
pattern crossed the south approach to the stage. The second mission of the day
took
off at 1505 hours
although weather hindered them and all bombs were returned to the base......Two
and
three missions a day are
beginning to be a habit with the 487th Squadron. Combat men who have
finished up their
missions were on detail in Ordnance today hauling bombs around. That is but on
example of the amount of
work around here since the all out effort has been put forth......The roof of
the Administration
Building was crowded this morning when a B-26 came in for an emergency landing
and exploded at the end
of the runway. This is the first time we've been able to see the field from the
squadron area and the
roof garden is an excellent viewing stand. All crew members of the B-26 were
rescued before the plane
burned.......The first class in Italian was held in the War Room this evening.
Participation runs fifty
cents a month and the turnout which has been divided into three separate
classes
is well over a hundred.
Each student will get four hours of Italian per week. The instructress is a
young girl graduate of
the University of Bologna with a lot of charm and it's still undecided whether
the boys are interested
in learning Italian or more about the Signorina.......We had an alert around
eleven o'clock tonight
although they don't mean much and come with regularity. We have yet to see an
enemy plane here at this
field.......”Tonight and Everynight” with Rita Hayworth was shown at the Group
movie tonight......
24th
Up early again this
morning for an early briefing and take off at 0740 hours. The twelve bombers
reached their objective
at 0857 and laid a well placed pattern covering the center of the bridge. Heavy
flak was encountered.
The second was a nickeling mission covering Legnago and Lusia areas.
Cremona South Ferry
Stage felt the weight of of the last twelve ships formation bombs. Both boxes
scored hits, but the second
box scored direct hits on the center of the pier. Again no opposition was
encountered.......Last
night's air raid alert was indirectly the work of Major Rapp. It seems that he
was
slightly under the
weather and instructed the Adjutant, Lt. Smith to have the CQ sound the siren.
Lets
hope he doesn't get
those ideas often. Lt. Smith is quite unhappy about the opening of a bar in the
officers quarters
directly across from his room. He had a taste of it last night when the
officers got drunk
and started to play
soldier with his clothes......We are still without a shower in the Squadron or
in the
group and its getting to
be quite uncomfortable to say the least. Every time the question is brought up
you are told that
they're working on it, but the question is who's working on it and
where......Pfc.
Powell, Sergeant of the
Guard wrecked another weapons carrier last night in a collision with an English
vehicle, but the
seriousness of the injury has not been announced as yet.......The enlisted mens
club is
scheduled to open
Saturday with a dance. 1st/Sgt. Parkins came back from Bari last night with
eight
hundred dollars worth of
Italian vintages.......”Marriage Is A Private Affair” with Lana Turner was
shown at the Group movie
area tonight.......
25th
Operations slowed down
today and there was only one mission taking off at 1003 hours to bomb
Steinach South Railroad
bridge in Austria. One box of the twelve ship formation bombed the primary
and all bombs fell in
the target area around the bridge and tunnel mouth. The other box bombed the
alternate which was
Volargne Railroad Fill and the pattern covered the tracks north of the target.
Inaccurate anti-aircraft
fire was observed, but it did not reach the formation.......We came over to
Italy
expecting the food to
improve once we were on the mainland, but unfortunately it has degraded to a
very low ebb. Rations
are very poor and the treatment rendered them would do anything but improve
the flavor. Bread is
conspicuous by its absence at some meals. many of the boys have expressed the
desire to hire an
Italian chef that they claim can do wonders with C-rations......There are at
least
twenty-five combat men
waiting around for their decorations to come back on order before their
rotation papers can be
submitted. The move delayed all activities along those lines, but even without
the confusion of a move
its a long wait. Lts. Evans and Erickson flew over to Florence yesterday to do
a little checking up only
to find out nothing and to be chewed out by a Wing Major.......The guard setup
has been relaxed and
instead of pulling a three day tour the individual pulls only one day and is
expected to work the
following morning. It is much better that way although the jeep patrol is still
the
most ideal from the
standpoint of the guard.......This being Wednesday night there was no movie
shown
at the Group
theater........
26th
Eight o'clock alert this
morning for twelve aircraft which was changed to a stand-by until the afternoon
when at 1600 hours
another alert was called, but on the hour the status reverted to a stand-down
for the
remainder of the day.
This was the first missionless day in over two weeks and the change was a
welcome one......The
Italian front is moving with such swiftness that it is difficult to ascertain
the exact
locations of either
armies. Verona, bombed many times by the 487th fell tonight. Milan and Turin
are
reported to be in
Partisan hands. Radio commentators say that there is very little fighting left
to be
done in Italy, the
German Armies are cracked. The entire war front lends meat to the rumor that we
will soon depart for the
U.S.A......A meeting of all section heads took place tonight, but the topic of
the
get-together is tightly
bound in secrecy......If it weren't for the 488th shower even the few who are
using
it would still be
bathing in the old reliable helmet. Our shower is still in the process of being
erected
and an opening date has
not yet been announced.......Special Service is finally set up with books and
equipment available.
Athletic equipment is in the war room, what little there is left of it. More of
that
type of thing will be
found in personal quarters. Stars and Stripes are free in the combat zone and
since
the troops are moving so
fast its doubtful that we'll be enjoying that little item much
longer......”Cover
Girl” with Rita Hayworth
was shown at the Group movie tonight.......
27th
Showers and a cloudy sky
kept all planes on the ground today. There was a stand-by at
by the announcement of a
stand-down for the remainder of the day. It's rather a let down after two and
three missions a day,
but some of the boys would just as soon fly and get their missions in. Passes
to
the local towns were given
out in abundance. Rimini with all if its destruction is anything but ideal for
a day off although
Riccione, the home of Group Headquarters is the closest and the most intact
town in
the vicinity. San Marino
was out of bounds up until the last day or so when it was opened to site-seeing
groups of four or more
with a sergeant in charge. Such an order is typically British, but being with
the
8th Army we must abide
by it........Lt. Azzara was to fly his first mission as Pilot today. He has
almost
completed a tour of
combat as a co-pilot which is not only unusual but the first time its happened
in the
Squadron......At the
meeting of all section heads last night seventeen ground men were chosen to go
home on rotation and
various other extra deals that have come up hurriedly. No one is throughly
familiar with the
arrangement and until they leave everything is subject to change. Evidently the
12th
Air Force is going to
disband piecemeal and this quota of one thousand men divided among the various
organizations is
regarded as the first gesture in that direction. A complete list of those going
home will
probably be published
soon.......Sgt. Ivan Johnson is scheduled to leave on the regular rotation
policy of
one half of one percent
within the next few days........The fight for Berlin still rages and the
link-up of
American and Russian
forces in the center of Germany was announced simultaneously from the Big
Three Capitols.
Mussolini is reported to be in Partisan hands, captured in Northern Italy at
the Swiss
frontier......”Cover
Girl” was repeated at the vine covered outdoor theater of the 340th Group again
tonight.........
28th
Stand-down was in effect
all day, evidently due to the weather. Not in any way does the climate of
Northern Italy compare
with that of Corsica. A cold wind is constant and rain is always threatening.
However, despite weather
condition there were numerous passes issued by the Orderly Room today. A
great number of the
487th personnel could be found down in Riccione eating crumpets and tea at the
British Salvation Army.
Needless to say that establishment has become a favorite.......There has been
much running around
lately to procure items for the new enlisted mens club to be opened in the near
future. T/Sgt. Gillis is
president and responsible for all function. His ability will be judged when the
place opens......To the
surprise of the entire Squadron the showers opened up for business today. When
plans were in the making
the unit had ten individual shower units, but upon opening only six were
installed – two for
officers and four for enlisted men. After weeks without one there was a waiting
line
all day and exclamations
of how wonderful the water was followed each man out.......The British have
been generous in
allowing us to enjoy their ENSA Shows featured regularly at the Garrison
Theater in
Riccione. “Evs On Leave”
was their latest production and all who saw it claimed it to be the best show
they've seen overseas.
USO Shows have never been so acclaimed.........
29th
A mission was scheduled this
morning, but a stand-down was declared shortly after
weather. It's beginning
to look as though the 487th has flown its last mission because if poor weather
prevails the war will be
over before we get another chance at the enemy. According to news reports
Himmler has offered the
Unightd States and Britain “unconditional surrender” but they have skipped
Russia and consequently
their offer was not accepted. President Truman called a press conference last
evening to discourage
VE-Day celebrations in the States and told the people that there was no
foundation to the rumor
of peace. However, neutral sources and news commentators insist that
negotiations are in
order and that peace will come to Europe at any moment. Hitler is reported to be
near death and still in
Berlin......Three of Rome's loveliest girls made their way to Rimini and are
now
holding forth in the
immediate vicinity. One has gold teeth, the other has diseased looking eyes
while
the last is just
indifferent. They commanded as much attention by the Squadron boys as Betty
Grable
would if she were here.
Judging from the money spent, one would think that a European beauty had
been found, but
evidently its just any old port in a storm........Our ex Sergeant of the Guard,
Pfc. Powell
is suffering from two
broken jaws as a result of his accident last week. Perhaps after his mouth is
wired closed for five
weeks and he is fed through a straw for that same length of time he will
realize
that fast driving does
not pay. His condition is uncomfortable, but not serious. Lt. Smith after a
visit to
the hospital said that
he looks like square jawed Dick Tracy.........Most 487th personnel could be
found
in the local towns today
rather than in the Squadron area which is always characteristic of a
standdown.......”
Mrs. Skeffington” was
shown at the movie tonight.
30th
Another stand-down was
celebrated today. Every day lately there has been a raid scheduled, but its
always called off before
take-off time and we cant figure out whether its the weather or war
developments. We would
like to think that a peace is being negotiated. Sunny Italy is affording us the
same dismal welcome that
it did over a year ago down at Pompei – the sun only holds forth on very
rare
occasions.......1st/Sgt. Parkins took a jeep loaded down with officers and men
to Bologna today.
Bologna is opened up now
and everyone who has been there seems very fond of the city......Sgt.
Carlson and Cpl. Lozano
returned to the Squadron from the hospital in Naples today, much to their
surprise as well as
ours. Both of them expected to be evacuated to the States when their orders to
return to the unit were
presented to them........Marvin Finn returned from Naples with his bride of a
month today. They were
married while the Squadron was still stationed in Corsica and after we moved
over here Marvin went
down to bring her up. He was fortunate in getting air transportation and the
couple are now at home
in Riccione.......Our move didn't delay pay call and everyone was paid in the
mess hall this afternoon
by Lt. Smith. All night poker games followed the day of days. The change
from the huge French
money to the familiar Lire was a relief and greatly appreciated........Emily
opened
up her Red Cross
Enlisted Mens club down in Riccione last night. As everything else, the club is
the
best set-up we've had
during our tour of very lengthy overseas duty. Cookies and coffee were served
free of charge as an
opening gesture.......”Double Indemnity” was shown at the Group movie
tonight......
Transcribed by Dan
Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer
May 1945
[Transcriber's note: Some entries
are truncated. Especially the opening lists of wounded in action,
distinguished actions,
etc. Please see the original document for the full details.]
War Diary, 487th
Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group
Prepared by: Cpl.
Richard C. Hurley, 487th BS.
j. Personnel who have
distinguished themselves in action:
Balise A Azzara
Robert E. Brown
Willard A. Bruce
Robert N. Gist
Frank L. Jones
Francis J. LaPierre
Julius Lieberman
Vernon J. Lyle
Harry P. Naruszewicz
Donald A. Peters
David C. Solether
George R. Stejskal
The following flying
personnel of this organization have been awarded Air Medal and Clusters
thereto:
Wayland H. Adams Jr.
Howard L. Adkins
Frank H. Albright Jr.
Walter Aller Jr.
James W. Austin Jr.
Blaise A. Azzara
Theodore J. Bennett
Irvin A. Beske
Robert E. Brown
Willard A. Bruce
Marvin K. Carlson
George Chipouras
Jerome T. Chumney
Edwin C. Clothier
Hubert Conwill
Luke J. Crosby
David C. Cunard
Linwood E. Davis Jr.
Henry J. Del Percio
James R. Dempsey
William J. Derby
Thomas F. Di Orio Jr.
Wesley E. Dobson
John H. Downs
Warren A. Downs
Burt R. Dyar
Lester C. Ellison
George E. Erkila
Delos Ervine
Robert E. Evans
Russell F. Evans
David W. Feltus
Robert L. Fielding
James B. Fitzgerald
Charles F. Fredericks
Jr.
Frank F. Fronek
Jack J. Frost
Pierre P. Garven
Bert M. Gifford
George Gifford
Robert N. Gist
Harry J. Glattle
Chester M. Gretz
Tony J. Gucwa
Dwain D. Gull
James M. Hall
Edward j. Hardisky
Werner M. Hartman Jr.
David D. Heater
James V. Heming
William H. Hendry
Thomas A. Hetzel
Walter B. Hogge
George Hoilko
Emmett O. Holbrook
Robert E. Holmes
John W. Holsky
John K. Houston
Kenneth W. Hovermale
Frank L. Jones
Christy M. Kara
Adam R. Kelly
Herman H. W. Kiel
Lewis A. Kirk Jr.
Charles R. Klebes Jr.
Howard J. Knaggs
Hubert O. Knauff
Paul S. Kotowski
William E. Krebs
Wallace L. Krueger
Francis J. LaPierre
Carlton O. Lawrence
Morris Lazarowitz
John E. Leatherwood
Roger D. Lewis
Julius Lieberman
Vernon J. Lyle
Bryant O. Lyons
Albert M. Manis
Morgan C. Mattox
Edwin E. Mattson
Arthur W. Merritt
William Michael Jr.
Floyd E. Mitchell
Raymond G. Moffett
Wesley J. Mummert.
Malcolm M. McClenahan
Paul T. McCormick
John M. McCullough
Charles T. McIlvain
Paul S. McMillen
Harry P. Naruszewicz
Alfred J. Nelson
Alexander Newsom
Darrold H. Niederkorn
William D. Nixon
Frank W. Nunnally
James M. Oaks
Frederick C. Oldfield
Guy E. Olson
Jack L. Olson
Oscar E. Olson Jr.
Casimir Olszewski
John M. O'Riley
Edmund f. Papiernik
George D. Parks
George W. Patterson
William A. Paul
Donald A. Peters
Geroge R. Pew
Calvin D. Pickell Jr.
James H. Pitman
Harold Price
Leslie C. Price
Raymond Priest Jr.
Archie W. Raines
Clifford J. Ramsey
John E. Rapp
Wesley D. Raymer Jr.
Russell A. Reynolds
Ira Rifkind
Arthur H. Rigdon
Robert R. Riley
Edward R. Ritterbusch
Thomas P Rosmarin
James W. Russell
Daniel F. Savage
Darwin H. Selle
Vernon A. Short
Doulas F. Shoun
James C. Slaughter
Dwayne Q. Smith
David C. Solether
Joe A. Spieri
Kenneth O. Starr
George R. Stejskal
Telmo L. Suarez
Kenneth G. Tapert
John E. Taylor
Harry R. Telander
Frank L. Thibault
Nathan G. Thomas
Joseph J. Tomasek
Sam P. Triantos
Ted H. Trier
Lawson T. Ware
Charles W. Watson
Neville A. Waston
Lee R. Weil
Caldwell A. Whipple
Jay A. Wight
John J. S. Wisanowski
Ralph L. Woods
Nick Yeonopolus
William R. Young
Meynard N. Zerbe
John J. Zugibe
War Diary May 1945
It rained half of the
day and threatened the other half, consequently there was no mission and very
little
activity whatsoever in
the Squadron.......The Squadron enlisted mens club opened tonight amidst much
fanfare. It has been
named the "Doghouse" and is very appropriately decorated. Colonel
Chapman and
other "wheels"
were guests of honor this evening.......Rain canceled out the 340th movie.......
2nd
Stand-down again today
and it looks as though we'll remain at that status for the remainder of our
days
in Europe. Local church
bells rang out this evening when it was announced that German resistance in
course. Some few drunks
at the enlisted mens club gave the cessation of hostilities as the reason for
their inebration and
that was the extent of the celebration......An A-26 Mobile Training Unit
arrived on
the field
yesterday........No movie was shown in the Group tonight although the British
theaters in town
provide enough
entertainment for all.........
3rd
Officially we are still
operational, but it doesn't look as though War at its present will permit us to
take
advantage of the status.
Practice formations and local transition flying was only aerial activity taking
place today.......Berlin
with a garrison of more than seventy thousand troops was surrendered to the
Russians yesterday......."The
Great Moment" was shown at the Group movie tonight......
4th
Instead of being at a
stand-down the Squadron should be at a stand-around status. For the last few
days
the administration
building has looked like a corner drug store back in the States with all the
boys
standing
around.........A day guard system was inaugruated on teh field this
morning......A Squadron
meeting was called this
afternoon to introduce the educational program. About fifteen courses are
going to be offered and
classes are to commence almost immediately. Registration begins
tomorrow......"The
Great Moment" was repeated at the Group moive tonight.......
5th
1st/Sgt. Parkins called
a meeting of all enlisted men tonight in order to bid the boys good-by and
inform
them of his successor
who will be Sgt. Otto Stellato. Parkins leaves for the States tomorrow on a TD
deal, but he never
expects to return to the Squadron.........Registration for the education
program took
place today and classes are
expected to commence Wednesday.......Capt. Rau and Lt. Pennock left for
the States this morning
where they will participate in a competetive bombing contest and supposedly
return to the
Squadron.......
6th
Only Sgts. Fuiks and
Parkins departed today of the five men scheduled to leave. All men on previous
rotation lists were
alerted for shipment in the morning.......Two truck loads of men left on a
sight seeing
tour of San Marino this
morning, but the lack of entertainment and things to do sent them back in time
for the
tonight.......
7th
The announcement of V-E
Day overshadows any news since the landing in Normandy. With the
exception of a few hoots
and the sounding of the Squadron air raid siren the celebration amounted to
nothing. The news was
either too much to comprehend or it just more or less climaxed our positive
anticipation.......Twenty-seven men left the Squadron this morning on the
first lap of their long overdue
trip
home......."Greenwich Village" was shown at the Group movie
tonight........
8th
Today is the official V-E
Day and has been declared a holiday over the entire
theater. In celebration of
the big event the 487th
Squadron showed "Greenwich Village" three times this afternoon in the
War
Room. Those that weren't
at the movies were either out on the beach sunning themselves or stewing
themselves at the
Squadron bars which opened at two PM. However, the day that has been
anticipated
for over five years was
most uneventful at Rimini........A dance was held in the enlisted mens club
tonight and if it hadn't
been for all the Italian men it might have been a success.......
9th
In spite of the war's end
everthing at Miramare remains as complacent as ever. A practice formation of
eight bombers flew today
and other than that activities were routine......Baseball games are being
scheduled by Special
Service almost daily, but this years team doesn't compare with that of last
year......Many fine
coats of tan have been acquired by combat men on the beach in the last few
days.
Bathing attire must be
worn and the improvised trunks are quite a revelation......There was no movie
shown at Group
tonight......
10th
An intevsive training
program is promised to commence Monday......T/Sgt. Bill Durie was back visiting
in the Squadron today
for the first time since his narrow escape with flak last month. He is in a
cast,
but claims to be feeling
fine.......Most activities of the 487th Squadron took place right down on the
beach today,
consequently there is very little to impart concerning Squadron
functions......"Summer
Storm" was shown at
the Group movie tonight......
11th
Weather has been ideal
since the Squadron became non-operational......Lt. Raber went to Rome
yesterday to pick up the
text books that will be used for the educational program. T.Sgts. Crosby and
Gillis are down in Bari
trying to get liquor for the enlisted mens club. If liquor consumption is a
judge,
the club is definightly
a success.......Point values for discharges from the Army were announced today
and within fifteen
minutes after the announcement was made all members of the 487th Squadron had
their grand total
figured out. Eighty-five points is the critical number and all original
personnel are
well over that
mark.......Squadron censorship has been dispensed with entirely although
letters will be
spot checked by the base
censor......"Summer Storm" was repeated at the Group movie
tonight......
12th
Officially this is R-Day
or better known as Reconversion Day. All Adjusted Service Ratings will be
figured as of this day.
Several extra clerks were drafted into the Orderly Room and the rating
commenced. "Two
Down And One To Go" was shown in the War Room this afternoon and General
Arnold discouraged any
hopes for an early return to civilian life for Air Force personnel.......The
Squadron was authorized
two more battle participation stars for the Appennine and Po Compaigns
making a total of seven
for the Group. Needless to say the additional ten points did wonders for the
adjusted service rating
scores......"Kansas City Kitty" was shown at the Group movie
tonight......
13th
A Squadron meeting was
called this evening and everyone including officers and enlisted men were put
into flights. They were
then assigned three nights of the week for drill and the other three for
calisthentics and
athletics. This program commences tomorrow night at four PM and lasts until ten
minutes of six
nightly......"Kansas City Kitty" was repeated at the Group movie
tonight and the picture
wasn't worth showing the
first time......
14th
The intensive training
program was off with a bang this evening. Half of the Squadron fell out in
complete OD's for two
hours of drill and the other half appeared in shorts for PT and athletics on
the
beach. No one relished
the inauguration of this program and the result was pretty sad......Meal hours
have been changed and
the last breakfast is served at
great as 487th chow
isn't worth getting up for.......A Red Cross Club mobile unit entertained at
the
enlisted mens club
tonight and it was really one of the best shows we've seen in a long
time......."National
Barn Dance" was showne at the Group movie tonight.......
15th TOP
Rumors continue to float
around about when the Group will go home, but no one has the official
answer. However,
everyone agrees that it will only be a matter of no more than six
weeks......Major
Bugbe is in charge of
the entire Group's drill program and Lt. Lane is our drill master. Both are
very
thankless jobs as no one
wants to drill well or otherwise......Sitting on the beach is getting to be
more of
a luxury every day as
more programs are being introduced to occupy each moment of the
day......"National
Barn Dance" was shown at the movie for the second time tonight......
16th
Routine duties along
with the newly introduced program occupied the entire day. The Pre-fab being
erected next to the mess
hall for movies and lectures is almost completed and will be ready for use in
the next day or
two.......Capt. McGriffin and the entire staff went to Fano this morning for
the Captain's
court martial. He was
fined twenty-seven hundred dollars and returned to the Squadron......No movie
was shown at Group
tonight......
17th
The big event of the day
was the wholesale announcement of enlisted ground crew promotions. It was
the first promotions for
ground personnel of any account since the outfit left Sfax......Meals continue
to
get worse by the day and
unfortunately a great deal of the trouble is in the preparation.......GI
training
films have also been
included in the training program – all of them have been seen many times
before......."Lassie
Comes Home" was shown at the Group movie tonight......
18th
War or no war the 487th
continues to go on as usual. A-26 school is to end this week and the I&E
program is scheduled to
commence next Tuesday........Monday the 21st is the day set aside to turn in
all
excess gear and
equipment. A show down inspection is promised at any time after that
date......"Combat
America" was shown at the Group movie tonight at nine o'clock and
attendance was
mandatory. It was the
project for which Clark Gable was responsible and might have been appreciated
by anyone without combat
experience......
19th
Routine duties, classes,
drill and PT occupied the entire day. The administration building looks almost
deserted these days
especially on the main floor where work seems to have ceased almost completely.
"Lassie Comes
Home" was repeated at the Group movie tonight. The Garrison featured a USO
Show,
but no exclamations of
enthusiasm have been heard as a result of the enterprise......
20th
Sunday, and our first
day off – what a relief. many passes to the local towns were dispensed and the
remainder of the boys
spent the day on the beach. The enlisted mens club opens up at two in the
afternoon on
Sundays......"To Have Or Have Not" was the picture shown at the Group
movie tonight......
21st
A training film titled
"Water Purification" was shown to the drillers for about the tenth
time since
they've been in the Army
today. However, it spared the shoe leather and everyone was satisfied to be
bored rather than
drilled......Nelson got in more mail today than we have sighted since being at
Miramare, but he was
refused an excuse from drill to sort it and it wasn't dispensed until after
supper......Three more
combat men were flown to Naples this moring enroute to the States......Four GI
Weekly Shorts were shown
at the Group theater tonight instead of a feature picture......
22nd
I&E classes
commenced today and the attendance, although not large was considerably larger
than
expected. Full enrollment
cannot be expected until all other activities cease......About seventy-five men
from the Squadron were
decorated by General Knapp this afternoon at a most unimpressive
ceremony......The same
shorts that were shown in the squadron today were shown at the Group movie
area tonight......
23rd
Four more combat men
left this morning for the first lap of their trip home. All combat men that
have
gone home thus far are
those that finished their tour of duty before the war ended......Drillers were
delighted tonight to
find a training film lasting one half hour followed by another film on Japan
and then
a round table discussion
led by Lt. Rosenberg which lasted for the entire period. Anything to get away
from the drilling is a
welcome change......."Sweet And Low Down" was shown in the Squadron
tonight
following the reading of
the "Articles of War" for the benefit of all enlisted men.......
24th
Usual routine duties
occupied the day......Capt. Lyons and Lt. Krebs returned to Miramare after an
enjoyable sojourn at
Cannes, France......A drive for increased care of Coca Cola bottles has
commenced
in order that the ration
may be continued throughout the summer......."Sweet And Low Down" was
shown at the Group movie
tonight. The Garrison Theater featured "Cornza Poppin," a very poor
USO
Show.......
25th
Our quota of men for the
Rome Rest Camp were off today and happy to get away from the basic
routine of Miramare.
Getting out of drill for three days even encourages the most immobile men to go
on pass......Capt.
Nozick gave the entire Squadron a dental survey this morning. He found few
cavities,
but he couldn't expect
to find many in such a short period of time. After over two years under Capt.
Nozick's care there are
a number of fellows who don't have any teeth to inspect......."Sweet and
Low
Down" was repeated
at the Group movie tonight......
26th
Lt. Lewis and five
enlisted men left for the Naples port of embarkation this morning on their way
to the
homeland. The boys who
left on V-E Day are still down ther sweating out a boat so the general outlook
for anyone in a hurry
doesn't appear to be good.......Drill and PT are still the main topics of the
day......"And the
Angels Sing" was shown at the Group movie tonight......
27th
A Reclassification Board
for the purpose of reclassifying enlisted personnel holding MOS numbers
inappropriate to their
qualifications has been set up. This has been anticipated for the past two
years
and only now came into
being.......The Rest Camp at Ile Rousse, Corsica is still operating and some of
the combat officers are
taking advantage of the resort while awaiting decorations to come out on
General
Order......."And the Angels Sing" was repeated at the movie
tonight......
28th
Back to the old routine
after yesterday's holiday. There seems to be no deviation from the schedule in
this Squadron. Another
bunch went to Rome for three days this morning and the others returned after a
rest in the Eternal
City......"Our Hearts Were Young And Gay" was shown at the Group movie
tonight.....
29th
Rotation is still the
most important and most talked of item in the 487th Squadron. However, there
have
been no new quotas of
late and the lack of same always brings forth many fertive rumors. The latest
has us going to Austria as
occupational forces, but there is nothing official on anything......"Our
Hearts
Were Young and Gay"
was repeated at the 340th movie, "Cover Girl" was shown at the Odeon
in
Riccione and the
Garrison featured a South African variety show called "Crazy Gang"
which was one
of the best seen thus
far......
30th
Memorial Day and a half
holiday for all personnel in the 340th Group. The Squadron bars opened up
early this afternoon and
those that weren't indulging spent the day on the beach or on pass in the local
towns. We anticipated
some sort of ceremony today, but fortunately we were mistaken......All records
are being brought up to
date in readiness for departure from this theater. Such a move isn't
contemplated for at
least several months, however......This being Wednesday there was not a movie
at
the Group theater.......
31st
M/Sgt. Joe Walsh and
S/Sgt. Broderick left the Squadron on rotation yesterday. A rather large list
was
submitted, but only
these two came out on top. Some of the boys find it difficult to leave their
buddies
of long standing, but
thus far no one has turned down the opportunity for rotation.......Rome leaves
were off again today.
Since enforcing the rules of the Rest Camp such as bed check and a few other
things Rome isn't the
popular place it used to be. Many of the boys have done extra duty for their
failure to comply [with]
this order......."When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" was shown at the Group
movie
tonight.....
Transcribed by Dan
Setzer
Son of Sgt. Hymie
Setzer, 487th BS
http://home.comcast.net/~dhsetzer