WWII - 70 Years Ago

[dschneck]

Sunday, July 16,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 476 – 1,087 bombers and 712 fighters are dispatched to hit targets in Germany.

 

The RAF sends 30 Lancasters and three Mosquitos to bomb the flying-bomb launching site at St Philibert Ferme.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 38 Mosquitos to attack the synthetic-oil plant at Homberg, four Stirlings to lay mines off Brest, and eight Mosquitos to go on flying-bomb patrols.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of about 375 B-26s and A-20s to bomb strongpoints in the St Lô area, bridges in the frontline area, and bridges and a fuel dump southeast of Rennes.

 

In US First Army area, VII Corps continues south toward the Périers–St Lô road with the 9^th Division on the right and the 30^th Division on the left.

 

In the XIX Corps area, the 35^th Division makes little headway on the right flank.

 

In the British Second Army area, XXX Corps attacks with the 59^th Division toward Noyers and partially envelops this objective.

 

In the XII Corps area, while the 53^rd Division overruns Cahier, the 15^th Division takes Gavrus, Bougy, and Esquay, in the region above Evrecy.

 

Russian Front
Converging columns of the Third and Second White Russian Fronts overrun Grodno, and the rail and road junction on the route to East Prussia.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends around 380 bombers to attack oil and aircraft targets in the Vienna area, of Austria, bombing the Munchendorf Airfield, the Winterhafen oil depot, the Vienna marshalling yard, and the Wiener Neudorf engine factory.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers hit bridges in the Po River Valley at Peschiera del Garda, Mantua, Torre Beretti, Piacenza, Casale Monferrato, and Bressana Bottarone.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 135^th Infantry, of the 34^th Division, jumping off at 0100 hours, seizes Hill 232 and Monte Maggiore, comprised of Hill 449 and Hill 413, southeast of Leghorn. The 168^th Infantry takes Lorenzana and pushes on to vicinity of Fauglia. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 133^rd Infantry, seizes Usigliano and drives to within three miles of the Arno River Valley. The 361^st Infantry gets within sight of the Arno River Valley floor, against diminished resistance.

 

In the British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, the British 6^th Armoured Division captures Arezzo, where the enemy’s delaying action has gained time for them to improve the Gothic Line.

 

In the X Corps area, the fall of Arezzo menaces German positions on the Alpe di Poti. X Corps is now able to concentrate on the drive toward Bibbiena.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 23 B-24s to bomb Changsha, China.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 27 P-40s, from the 10^th Air Force, continue to hit forces in the Myitkyina area.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s continue bombing Yap Island, and also hit the Atamboea Airfield, on Timor Island. In New Guinea, other B-24s pound anti-aircraft positions at Manokwari; fighter-bombers bomb supply dumps north of Moemi and attack shipping in the Kokas-Babo area.

 

In the Aitape area, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 124^th Infantry, which is part of North Force, guided by Troop E, of the 112^th Cavalry, advances south to close the gap on the Driniumor line.

 

On Noemfoor, the 503^rd Parachute Infantry finds that the enemy has withdrawn from Hill 670 and contact is again lost. The Kamiri airdrome is ready to accommodate an entire fighter group.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s continue to pound Tinian Island.

[dschneck]

Monday, July 17,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 478 – In the morning 670 bombers and 472 fighters are dispatched to hit tactical targets in France.

 

The RAF sends 72 Halifaxes, 28 Stirlings, 20 Lancasters, 11 Mosquitos, and one Mustang to attack three V-weapons sites.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 479 – During the evening 69 B-17s and 106 of 115 B-24s are dispatched to attack 12 V-weapon sites in the Pas de Calais area

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

With operations limited by weather in France, the 9^th Air Force sends 69 B-26s to hit fuel dumps at Rennes, while 37 A-20s strike fuel dumps at Bruz and a marshalling yard at Dol-de-Bretagne.

 

In the VII Corps area, the 9^th Division breaks through the enemy’s main line of resistance on the right flank of corps and drives quickly toward the St Lô highway, while the 30^th Division deepens its salient on the left flank to La Houcharderie.

 

In the XIX Corps area, the 35^th Division penetrates enemy positions on the right flank of corps.

 

In the XII Corps area, the 15^th Division tries unsuccessfully to break into Evrecy.

 

In the British Second Army area, XXX Corps makes limited progress near Noyers.

 

Rommel’s participation in the war ends. Severely wounded when his car is strafed by aircraft, he is unable to continue his duties as commander of Army Group B and von Kluge takes over this post in addition to his other duties.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends 162 B-24s to attack a marshalling yard and railroad bridges at Avignon and railroad bridges at Arles and Tarascon, all in France. P-51s and P-38s provide escort.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers concentrate on Po River Valley bridges, hitting road and rail bridges and viaducts at or near Alessandria, Ostiglia, Bogliasco, Borgoforte, Moline, Imperia, Asti, Mollere, and Casale Monferrato.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 135^th Infantry, of the 34^th Division, makes little progress toward Leghorn, while armored units on the coast cover its flank. The 442^nd Infantry takes Luciana. The 168^th Infantry takes Fauglia after stiff battle, then joins the 133^rd Regiment to reach the southern edge of the Arno River Valley.

 

The British Eighth Army commander concludes that the Gothic Line must be assaulted by two corps, at Florence–Firenzuola and Florence–Bologna. In the X Corps area, the Indian 4^th Division reaches the Alpe di Poti and begins clearing that hill mass. The Polish 2 Corps, with close air support, begins assault on Ancona.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 22 B-24s to bomb Changsha, China, while seven B-25s and 21 P-40s pound railroad yards at Kaifeng, and six B- 25s and 12 P-40s hit Tengchung.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a group of over 60 P-40s, P-47s, and P-51s to continue hitting enemy forces in the Myitkyina area, pound Tagwin, and bomb a marshalling yard at Mohnyin, all in Burma.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) operations against the Caroline Islands are restricted to snooper missions against Yap Island and Woleai Atoll. Fuiloro, on Timor Island is bombed by B-25s. In New Guinea, B-24s bomb gun positions around Manokwari and airfield at Moemi.

 

In Aitape area, PERSECUTION Covering Force closes the gap in the line along the Driniumor River, but the enemy forces another gap during the night. The Japanese are getting into position for attack on Afua.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s bomb and strafe Tinian Island. 48 B-25s, from Makin Island, stage through Engebi Island, in the Eniwetok Atoll, to bomb Ponape Island. One aircraft aborts, but the other B-25s attack airfield facilities, anti-aircraft positions, and other targets throughout the atoll.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, July 18,1944

 

Tokyo

The cabinet of Premier Tojo falls. A new one is subsequently formed under Kuniaki Koiso.

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 481 – 1,394 bombers and 476 fighters are dispatched to hit targets in Germany and tactical targets in France

 

The RAF dispatches 667 Lancasters, 260 Halifaxes, and 15 Mosquitos to bomb five fortified villages in the area east of Caen, through which British Second Army troops are about to make an armored attack, Operation GOODWOOD.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 111 Halifaxes, 77 Lancasters, and six Mosquitos to attack the synthetic-oil plant at Wessling. Meanwhile, 157 Lancasters and 13 Mosquitos attack the oil plant at Scholven/Buer. In other action, 253 Lancasters and 10 Mosquitos attack the railway junctions at Aulnoye and Revigny.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 400 B-26s and A-20s to attack various military targets in support of the ground forces in the Caen area, and later in the day, bomb rail and highway bridges beyond the frontlines.

 

The US First Army, with the capture of St Lô by XIX Corps, successfully concludes the Battle of the Hedgerows, during which it has gained suitable positions from which to launch a breakout attack, Operation COBRA.

 

In the VII Corps area, the 9^th and 30^th Divisions continue steadily toward the Périers–St Lô road, with some patrols reaching it. XIX Corps completes the costly struggle for St Lô.

 

The British Second Army begins an offensive in the Caen area that, despite its limited-objective, receives the strongest air support ever provided for ground forces in Normandy, as 7,700 tons of bombs are dropped. The purpose of the offensive is to draw off German armor from the US First Army’s breakout attack, Operation COBRA, scheduled for July 24.

 

The 9^th Air Force sends the following troop carrier units, all flying C-47s, to Italy:

· The 91^st, 92^nd and 94^th Troop Carrier Squadrons, of the 439^th Troop Carrier Group.

· The 95^th, 96^th and 97^th Troop Carrier Squadrons, of the 440^th Troop Carrier Group.

· The 99^th, 100^th and 302^nd Troop Carrier Squadrons, of the 441^st Troop Carrier Group

· The 303^rd, 304^th and 305^th Troop Carrier Squadrons, of the 442^nd Troop Carrier Group.

 

The US 6^th Armored Division begins landing at UTAH Beach.

 

Russian Front

Troops of the First Ukrainian Front overrun Brody. To the north, First White Russian forces begin a westward drive from Kowel. Troops of the Third Baltic Front go on the offensive south of Lake Peipus, threatening Ostrov and Pskov. Soviet forces on the East Prussian border are brought to a halt at Augustow by a German counterattack.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of 200 B-24s and B-17s to bomb the Memmingen Airfield and the Dornier aircraft works at Manzell, Germany, and Casarsa della Delizia railroad bridge, in Italy.

 

Italian Campaign

Bad weather cancels 12^th Air Force medium bomber missions, but fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit several bridges, roads, rail lines, and other communication targets and guns north of and in the battle area.

 

In US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 34^th Division begins the final assault on Leghorn, with the 135^th Infantry and attached Regimental Combat Team 363, of the 91^st Division, latter organized as Task Force Williamson, under Brigadier General Raymond Williamson.

 

The French Expeditionary Force (FEC) renews its pursuit of the enemy upon finding that he is withdrawing all along front.

 

In the British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, the South African 6^th Armoured Division on the left flank of corps overruns Radda in Chianti. In the Arno River Valley, the 4^th Division and the British 6^th Armoured Division are almost halted by the first of a series of enemy delaying lines above Arezzo, but the 4^th Division takes Montevarchi, on Highway 69. The Indian 8^th Division passes to the command of XIII Corps. The Enemy is stubbornly defending the heights on either side of Citta di Castello, but is forced back from Monte Arnato. The Polish 2 Corps breaks through to Ancona on the Adriatic coast.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In the Hengyang-Tungting Lake region of China, over 30 P-40s, from the 14^th Air Force, strafe shipping between Chaling and Hengyang, bomb the town of Hengyang, and hit the airfield and several anti-aircraft positions in the area.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 25 P-40s to attack the Myitkyina area, in Burma.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s strike Yap Island, bombing the town and the Blelatsch peninsula. Several of the B-24s bomb Sorol Atoll. In New Guinea, bad weather prevents strikes on the Vogelkop Peninsula.

 

In Aitape area, PERSECUTION Covering Force closes the gap in the Driniumor River line and holds the west bank of the river from the coast to Afua. The Japanese withdraw both east and west under attack by the 124^th Infantry.

 

In New Guinea, General Sibert , 6^th Division commander, relinquishes command of Task Force TORNADO to Major General John Persons, 31^st Division commander. General Sibert , takes charge of Task Force TYPHOON, comprised of the reinforced 6^th Division, less Regimental Combat Team 20, which is attached to the 31^st Division, for the Sansapor-Marine operation in the Vogelkop, scheduled for July 30.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s pound Tinian and Pagan islands. In the Marshall Islands, five B-24s, flying out of Kwajalein Atoll, hit Wotje Atoll, and 25 other B-24s, staging through Eniwetok Atoll, attack Truk Atoll.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, July 19,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 482 – A force of 1,242 B-17s and B-24s and 761 P-38s, P-47s, and P-51s, operating in five groups, attack targets in western and southwestern Germany.

 

The RAF dispatches 132 Lancasters and 12 Mosquitos to attack two launching sites and a supply dump.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force uses a force of 262 B-26s and A-20s to bomb bridges on the Loire and Seine Rivers and a fuel dump at Bruz.

 

In the US First Army area, XIX Corps mops up within St Lô.

 

In the British Second Army’s Canadian II Corps area, the 2^nd Division takes Louvigny, on the north bank of the Orne River, and Fleury and Ifs, on the south bank.

 

In the VIII Corps area, Cagny falls to the Guards Armoured Division, and I Corps continues to fight for Troarn.

 

The 9^th Air Force moves the 373^rd Fighter Group, and the 513^th Fighter Squadron, with P-47s, from the UK to France. They also send the 437^th Troop Carrier Group, with C-47s, from England to Italy.

 

Russian Front
Moscow announces the encirclement of some four or five German divisions west of Brody.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 400 B-17s and B-24s to bomb an ordnance depot, an aircraft factory, a motor works, and an airfield in the Munich area, as a follow-up to a similar raid by the 8^th Air Force

 

Italian Campaign

Bad weather in Italy again restricts 12^th Air Force medium bomber operations, but in the late afternoon B-26s hit bridges at Piacenza and Ostiglia. B-25s bomb a bridge at Sassuolo; fighter-bombers are limited to a few railroad targets.

 

In US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, Leghorn falls to the 34^th Division without serious opposition, but retreating Germans troops have carried out a thorough demolition program within the city and on the harbor facilities.

 

In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, the 4^th Mountain Division seizes Certaldo, while the 2^nd Moroccan Division takes San Donato, northwest of Castellina.

 

In the British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, the South African 6^th Armoured Division begins clearing the main ridge of the Chianti hills on the left flank of XIII Corps, but stubborn enemy opposition limits the progress in other areas. Elements of the British 6^th Armoured Division secure a new crossing site over the Arno River at Laterina.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends over 80 P-40s to attack targets in China. They hit shipping in the Tungting Lake area, targets of opportunity, supply areas, and troop concentrations around Hengyang, bomb a radio station, storage facilities, and shipping at Changsha, hit the airfield at Siangtan, and sink about 15 sampans between Changsha and Siangtan.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a group of over 30 P-40s and P-51s to attack the Myitkyina area and support ground forces near Kamaing, in Burma. Myitkyina is also bombed by nine B-25s.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, striking in two waves, attack the airfield on Yap Island. Several of the B-24s become separated from the formations and bomb Ngulu and Sorol atolls, in the Caroline Islands. In New Guinea, weather again cancels strikes on the Vogelkop Peninsula area, but fighter-bombers hit stores, gun positions, and targets of opportunity along the Dandriwad River and support Allied ground forces in the Sarmi-Sawar sector.

 

In the Aitape area, South Force of PERSECUTION Covering Force attacks south on the right flank and recovers ground lost on the 18^th in the Afua area. However, in the afternoon the Japanese attempt to encircle Troop A, of the 112^th Cavalry, necessitating another attack. Troop A drives the enemy back 600 yards to the southwest of its original positions astride the Afua–Palauru trail.

 

Southwest Pacific Area Headquarters issues the “Outline Plan for Occupation of Southwest Morotai.”

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s continue to bomb and strafe Tinian Island.

[dschneck]

Thursday, July 20,1944

 

German Home Front

In East Prussia, near Rastenburg,an attempted assassination of Adolf Hitler fails.

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 484 – 1,172 bombers and 542 fighters are dispatched to hit oil and industrial targets in central Germany.

 

The RAF dispatches 174 Lancasters, 165 Halifaxes, and 30 Mosquitos to attack six flying-bomb launching sites and the V-weapon site at Wizemes.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 302 Lancasters and 15 Mosquitos to attack the railway yards and a “triangle” rail junction at Courtrai. Elsewhere, 149 Halifaxes, 13 Mosquitos, and four Lancasters attack the synthetic-oil refinery at Bottrop, and 147 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos attack the oil plant at Homberg, causing severe damage. Meanwhile, 54 Halifaxes, 23 Lancasters, and 10 Mosquitos hit flying bomb sites at Ardouval and Wizernes. German documents show that the production of aviation fuel, which had stood at nearly 6,000 tons per day at the end of April, was now fluctuating between 120 and 970 tons per day, following the British Bomber Command and American 8th Air Force raids.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force cancels operations over France in the morning. In the afternoon, a group of 62 A-20s and B-26s strike the Senonches fuel dump and the Chaulnes marshalling yard.

 

The US First Army continues to prepare for Operation COBRA, shifting the 4^th Division from the command of VIII Corps to that of VII Corps.

 

In the XIX Corps area, the 134^th Infantry, of the 35^th Division, relieves Task Force C, of the 29^th Division, in St Lô.

 

In the British Second Army’s Canadian II Corps area, the 2^nd Division takes St André-sur-Orne against strong opposition.

 

In the British VIII Corps area, Bourguebus falls to the British 7^th Armoured Division, and Frenouville to the Guards Armoured Division. This ends the action to expand the Orne bridgehead and threaten Falaise.

 

The 9^th Air Force sends the 436^th Troop Carrier Group, the 75^th, 76^th and 78^th Troop Carrier Squadrons, from the 435^th Troop Carrier Group, and the 87^th, 88^th and 89^th Troop Carrier Squadrons, of the 438^th Troop Carrier Group, all flying C-47s, to Italy.

 

Russian Front
Soviet forces, driving west from Kowel, reach the Bug River on a 40 mile front.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of about 450 B-17s and B-24s to bomb targets in Germany.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers continue to pound Po River Valley bridges in or near Ostiglia, Parma, Mantua, Ferrara, and Alessandria.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 442^nd Infantry, in the 34^th Division sector, establishes an outpost line along Highway 67, southeast of Pisa.

 

In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, the 4^th Mountain Division gains a line from San Stefano, to Castelfiorentino, to Certaldo on the left flank.

 

In the British Eighth Army area, the XIII Corps commander changes the plan of attack, with the main effort to be made on the left flank, where the New Zealand 2^nd Division and Indian 8^th Division are to attack up Route 2.

 

The South African 6^th Armoured Division takes Monte San Michele and Monte Querciabella, permitting the British 4^th Division and the British 6^th Armoured Division in the Arno Valley to move forward again.

 

The XII Air Force Training and Replacement Command is disbanded in Algeria.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In the Tungting Lake area of China, 11 B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb the east half of Changsha, causing heavy destruction. A force of over 140 P-40s and P-51s attack river shipping and road traffic at several locations throughout the region.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, a few 10^th Air Force P-40s attack targets in the Myitkyina area.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, B-24s hit the airfield and anti-aircraft guns at Manokwari and anti-aircraft at Moemi. B-25s hit shipping off Sorong, in Kaiboes Bay, and off Misool Island, and bomb Kasim Island.

 

On Biak, Task Force HURRICANE completes the reduction of enemy positions in the East Caves, while bombardment of the Ibdi Pocket continues.

 

In the Aitape area, the 43^rd Division begins arriving. The 1^st and 2^nd Battalions, of the 127^th Infantry, are ordered to prepare to move southeast toward Afua.

 

In the Marianas, the volume of aerial attacks on Guam by carrier-based planes reaches a peak. Tinian is also under pre-invasion air and naval bombardment, but on a smaller scale.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s pound Tinian Island, while B-25s, from Engebi Island, bomb Ponape Island.

[dschneck]

Friday, 21 July ,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 486 – 1,110 bombers and 795 fighters are dispatched in four forces to bomb targets in Germany, among them are four aircraft plants and two ball bearing plants.

 

The RAF sends 45 Halifaxes, five Mosquitos, and two Lancasters to attack a flying-bomb site at Anderbeck.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

Bad weather in France prevents all 9^th Air Force combat operations.

 

Russian Front
Ostrov, Poland, falls to troops of the Third Baltic Front. Upon crossing the Bug River west of Kowel, some elements of the First White Russian Front drive toward Brest Litovsk, while others advance toward Lublin.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of 362 B-17s and B-24s to hit targets in Czechoslovakia.

 

Italian Campaign

Bad weather in Italy cancels 12^th Air Force medium bomber operations. However, A-20s hit a supply dump, while fighter-bombers attack rail and road bridges in the Po Valley and hit rail lines north of the battle line.

 

In the IV Corps area, the 91^st Division begins clearing the enemy from the south bank of the Arno River, without meeting serious opposition.

 

During the night, the British begin the relief of the French Expeditionary Force (FEC), in its current positions.

 

In British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, elements of the New Zealand 2^nd Division and the Indian 8^th Division move forward to relieve the French Expeditionary Force (FEC). The South African 6^th Armoured Division battles the enemy on the heights near Greve. X Corps finishes regrouping. After nightfall, the enemy begins withdrawing their salient at Citta di Castello.

 

The US Fifth Army issues orders for the next phase, a drive to the Gothic Line.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force uses 41 P-40s to hit the town area, airfield, trucks, river shipping, and troops at Changsha, trucks, horses, and junks at Sinshih, and troop concentrations, artillery sites, and pillboxes at Hengyang.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches six B-25s to bomb the railroad at Mohnyin and the town of Naba, both in Burma.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s again pound Yap Island, concentrating on the airfield. Enemy fighters, many dropping phosphorus bombs on the bomber formation, attack fiercely but ineffectively, as the B-24s shoot down seven of the fighters. In New Guinea, B-24s bomb anti-aircraft positions and the airfield at Manokwari, while A-20s hit barracks at Nabire, P-39s hit the caves and barge hideouts on the north coast of Biak Island and support ground forces along the Verkam River, and B-25s hit shipping at several points around the long coastline of the Vogelkop Peninsula. Elsewhere, B-25s and A-20s pound But, P- 39s bomb a bridge nearby; and P-47s follow with an attack on But and also hit Wewak jetties and Kairiru Island.

 

In the Aitape area, General Hall strengthens the line along the Driniumor River. Troop A, of the 112^th Cavalry, is replaced by Troop C.

 

Renewing their attacks in Afua area, the Japanese isolate Troop C, of the 112^th Cavalry, from rest of South Force, in a battle that continues through night. Later, a platoon of Company I, of the 127^th Infantry, succeeds in reaching the isolated unit.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s attack enemy forces on Tinian Island, intensifying their pre-invasion bombardment. Meanwhile, 28 B-24s, staging through Eniwetok Atoll, pound Truk Atoll.

 

After preparatory bombardment by naval vessels and carrier aircraft, US Marines of the III Amphibious Corps, of the Southern Landing Force, land on the west coast of Guam at about 0830 hours. The 3^rd Marine Division, with three regiments abreast, goes ashore at Asan. The 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade, with the 22^nd Marines on the left, and the 4^th Marines on the right, lands to south at Agat. Against moderate opposition, the Marines push inland and by nightfall hold two beachheads, near the ends of final beachhead line, each of them extending about a mile inland, on a two mile front. Regimental Combat Team 305, of the 77^th Infantry Division, lands on southern beaches to help hold the beachhead.

[dschneck]

Saturday, July 22,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 488 – Seven B-17s drop leaflets on Bremen, Hamburg and Kiel, Germany. Escort is provided by 34 P-51s. One airman is listed as killed in action.

 

The RAF sends 48 Lancasters and 12 Mosquitos on an “Oboe leader” mission, bombing four V-weapon sites through dense clouds. In other action, two Mosquitos fly Ranger patrols to Holland and Germany, attacking rail traffic.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches six Lancasters to lay mines in the Kattegat, and 10 Halifaxes are sent on resistance operations.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends one Group of A-20s and two Groups of B-26s to attack a rail bridge at Bourth and fuel dumps at Foret de Conches and Flers. Four Groups of fighter-bombers fly armed reconnaissance and rail cutting missions during the late evening.

 

In US First Army’s VIII Corps area, 90^th Division elements move to the area of St Germain-sur-Sèves, but are later forced to withdraw.

 

In the British Second Army’s XII Corps area, the 43^rd Division, in a limited attack, takes Maltot.

 

Russian Front

Russians forces are now on the Soviet-Finnish border. In Poland, Soviet forces, driving on Lublin, overwhelm Chelm.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends 76 P-38s and 58 P-51s on their second shuttle missions, attacking airfields at Zilistea and Buzau, destroying 56 enemy aircraft, and landing at Operation FRANTIC bases in the USSR. A force of 458 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escorts, bomb an oil refinery at Ploesti and other bombers hit alternate targets of the Verciorova marshalling yard, Orsova railroad bridge, and the marshalling yard at Kragujevac, Yugoslavia.

 

Italian Campaign

Bad weather again curtails 12^th Air Force bomber operations. However, during night and day operations A-20s carry out armed reconnaissance of the Lucca, Florence, Genoa, and Milan areas, bombing various targets.

 

In US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 34^th Division begins clearing the region below the Arno River, on the left flank at 2200 hours. The 91^st Division finishes cleaning out its zone below the Arno.

 

In the British Eighth Army area, XIII Corps extends westward to take over the sector previously held by French Expeditionary Force (FEC), including Highway 2. The Indian 8^th Division now holds positions on the extreme left, with the New Zealand 2^nd Division to its right.

 

In the X Corps area, the Indian 10^th Division takes Citta di Castello and continues northward.

 

China – Burma – India Theater

General Stilwell, in radio message to General Hearn, his chief of staff, establishes CBI policy on support of Chinese forces in east China. Stilwell says that General Chennault should admit his failure to stop the Japanese, by air alone, to Chiang Kai-shek, who could then decide what revision should be made in allocation of Hump tonnage.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends a group of over 120 P-40s and P-51s to attack targets in China. Elsewhere, four P-40s sink several large junks off the northeast coast of French Indochina.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 14 P-40s to attack forces in the Myitkyina area, of Burma. Meanwhile, seven B-25s bomb the railroad at Mohnyin, while two others hit storage sheds at Maingna.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s again attack the airfield on Yap Island. In New Guinea, B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and an assortment of fighter-bombers direct their main attacks against several targets.

 

In the Aitape area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 169^th Infantry, in the 43^rd Division, moves to the right of the 124^th Infantry, North Force, along the Driniumor River. Efforts to relieve the isolated Troop C, of the 112^th Cavalry, are futile, and the South Force leaves its right flank unprotected, leaving Afua to the enemy and Troop C isolated.

 

On Biak, after air and artillery preparation, two companies of the 163^rd Infantry attack the Ibdi Pocket and clear it without serious opposition.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s, from Saipan Island, using napalm-bombs for the first time, hit Tinian and Pagan Islands. Makin Island based B-25s pound Ponape Island.

 

On Guam, Marines repel counterattacks on both beachheads and then expand them toward the final beachhead line. The 3^rd Marine Division thrusts a salient 1,000 yards inland toward Mt. Chachao, and seizes the Piti Navy Yard. In a shore-to-shore operation, elements begin clearing Cabras Island. The 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade, reinforced by Regimental Combat Team 305, gains Mt. Alifan and the final beachhead line on the southern flank. General Geiger orders the 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade to clear Orote Peninsula upon relief by the 77^th Division. An advance party of the 306^th Infantry, which is to accomplish the relief, arrives to prepare for the landing of the rest of the regtiment.

 

Alaska Theater

The 11^th Air Force sends two B-25s to fly a shipping search in the Aleutian Islands. They encounter an enemy bomber which eludes further contact.

[dschneck]

Sunday, July 23,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 490 – 82 B-17s hit the Creil Airfield, and 198 B-24s hit the Laon/Couvron Airfield, the Laon/Athies Airfield and the Juvincourt Airfield

 

The RAF dispatches 48 Lancasters and 12 Mosquitos to bomb flying bomb sites at Forêt de Croc and Mont Candon through thick cloud.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 519 Lancasters, 100 Halifaxes, and 10 Mosquitos to bomb Kiel, on the first major raid on a German city for two months. Meanwhile, as part of a new campaign against oil targets in the occupied countries, 100 Halifaxes, 14 Lancasters, and five Mosquitos attack an oil refinery and storage depot at Donges, France, near the mouth of the River Loire, damaging the depot and sinking a tanker.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 330 A-20s and B-26s to bomb rail bridges and a supply dump.

 

The Canadian First Army, under the command of General Henry Crerar, takes control of the British I Corps on the extreme eastern flank.

 

Russian Front
Pskov, the last prewar Soviet city held by the Germans, falls to forces of the Third Baltic Front.

 

Mediterranean Theater

15^th Air Force sends 42 B-24s to bomb the oil refinery at Berat, Albania.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s and B-26s hit bridges and bridge approaches in the Po River Valley.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 34^th Division finishes clearing to the Arno River with little difficulty. The 363^rd Infantry takes Marina di Pisa by 0330 hours and reaches southern Pisa below the Arno River by 1330 hours.

 

In the British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, Tavernelle falls to New Zealand troops. The South African 6^th Armoured Division makes progress on the heights near Greve, taking the crests of Monte Domini and Monte Fili. The 4^th Division reaches San Giovanni.

 

China – Burma – India Theater

Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, in a message to President Roosevelt, reaffirms his willingness to place General Stilwell in command of Chinese forces but specifies three conditions that must be met:

· Chinese communists, before coming under authority of General Stilwell, must agree to obey the orders of the Chinese Government.

· General Stilwell’s role must be clearly defined.

· The Chinese must have full authority for lend-lease distribution.

 

Admiral Mountbatten outlines two plans of attack: Operation CAPITAL, an attack across the Chindwin River to capture Mandalay, and Operation DRACULA, an attack on the Rangoon area by seaborne and airborne forces.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 62 P-40s to attack targets in China. Meanwhile, six B-25s and 21 P-40s hit warehouses and railroad yards in the Yellow River area, and 10 P-40s hit Japanese positions on the Salween front in support of Chinese forces.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 100 fighter-bombers to hit enemy positions in the Myitkyina area.

 

On Salween front, the Chinese 8^th Army, renewing its attack on Sung Shan with three regiments, supported by direct fire of howitzers, makes substantial progress.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s again bomb Yap Island, hitting the town area and airfield. In New Guinea, airfields and shipping terminals over widespread areas of the Vogelkop Peninsula and nearby islands are pounded by B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers.

 

In the Aitape area, Troops A and B, of the of 112^th Cavalry, upon relief by the 1^st Battalion, of 127^th Infantry, north of Afua, attack west toward the isolated Troop C, while the 2^nd Battalion, of the 127^th Infantry, moves in from the southeast. Cavalrymen recapture Afua with little difficulty, and the 2^nd Battalion reaches the perimeter of Troop C.

 

On Biak Island, final mop up of the Ibdi Pocket is begun.

 

On Noemfoor Island, patrols of the 503^rd Parachute Infantry regain contact with the enemy about four miles northwest of Inasi village, on the east coast.

 

General MacArthur radios his proposed schedule of operations to Washington, outlining the invasion of Morotai on September 15, Talauds on October 15, and Mindanao on November 15.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s hit Tinian Island, and B-25s, from Makin Island, attack Nauru Island. Meanwhile, B-24s, staging through Eniwetok Atoll, bomb Truk Atoll, while others, flying out of Kwajalein Atoll, hit Wotje Atoll.

 

Surface vessels, artillery, and aircraft successfully execute final pre-invasion bombardment of Tinian Island.

 

On Guam, the 3^rd Marine Division fights stubbornly to expand the north beachhead, while they also complete the occupation of Cabras Island, where guns are emplaced to support future operations.

[dschneck]

Monday, July 24,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 492 – Heavy bombers are scheduled to participate in a US First Army offensive, Operation COBRA, to penetrate the German defenses west of Saint-Lô and secure Coutances, but bad weather causes the ground forces to delay the attack until the next day.

 

The RAF sends 28 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos to bomb flying-bomb sites at Acquet and Prouville, and three Mosquitos to fly Ranger patrols into northern Germany, to attack trains.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 461 Lancasters and 153 Halifaxes to bomb Stuttgart. This was the first of three raids on Stuttgart over a the next five nights. Elsewhere, 104 Lancasters and nine Mosquitos again attack the oil depot at Donges and, according to reports, the target was “devastated.” In other activity, l00 Halifaxes, 10 Mosquitos, and two Lancasters attack a flying-bomb site at Ferfay, 107 aircraft from training units fly a diversionary sweep, 27 Mosquitos hit Berlin, eight hit Frankfurt and five hit Aachen.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force schedules 11groups of bombers to participate in Operation COBRA, but the missions is cancelled due to bad weather. Instead, five groups of B-26s hit rail bridges and five groups of B-26s and A-20s strike three fuel and ammunition dumps.

 

Minor alteration of inter-army boundary becomes effective, as the British XXX Corps extends west to take command of part of the US 5^th Division zone on the left flank of US V Corps. The 15^th Scottish Division makes the relief.

 

Russian Front
Troops of the First White Russian Front overrun Lublin, Poland. Right f lank elements of the First Ukrainian Front cross San River, northwest of Lwow.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends over 200 bombers to attack targets in France and Italy.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack bridges at Chivasso, Peschiera del Garda, Imperia, and Ronco Scrivia, and viaduct at Ovada. A-20s hit ammunition supplies while fighter-bombers attack rail lines in the Po River Valley, destroying and damaging numerous railway cars.

 

The US Fifth Army begins regrouping along the Arno River.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends a group of 13 B-25s and 20 P-40s to bomb railroad facilities at Sienning, China. 22 P-40s pound the Pailochi Airfield, destroying about 30 aircraft and causing heavy destruction in general. Nine B-25s and 20 P-40s hit the town of Puchi, causing several fires, while 46 P- 40s hit river and road traffic, enemy concentrations, and targets of opportunity.

 

The Chinese garrison of besieged Heng-yang has been without air support since July 17, because of weather conditions. However, they continue to strongly resist and have forced the enemy to halt briefly in order to reorganize.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 14 P-51s to attack the Kamaing and Mogaung areas, in Burma, while 28 P-40s hit Myitkyina, and eight B-25s bomb Mohnyin and Naungtalaw.

 

The Chinese 50^th Division is joined by the Chinese 149^th Regiment, which relieves portions of the Chinese 42^nd and 150^th Regiments on the battle line, in the Myitkyina area.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Operations in the Caroline Islands are restricted to B-24 snooper strikes, while other B-24s bomb anti-aircraft positions at Saumlakki, on Tanimbar Island. In New Guinea, bad weather cancels scheduled strikes in the Vogelkop Peninsula area, but 18 A-20s and a B-25 bomb the But Airfield, P-47s hit supply areas at Sauri, and P-39s bomb and strafe bridges and supply dumps in the Suain area.

 

In the Aitape area, the Japanese, at least 2,000 strong, are disposed on South Force’s right flank and rear in the Afua area and prevent the 2^nd Battalion, of the 127^th Infantry, and Troop C, of the 112^th Cavalry, from breaking out. During the night, North Force, of the PERSECUTION Covering Force, repels the last enemy attempts, in limited strength, to secure the crossing of the Driniumor River. The region then becomes relatively quiet.

 

Task Force TYPHOON embarks at Maffin Bay for the Sansapor-Marine operation.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s hit Rota Island, and Tinian Island, on which US Marines land. B-25s, from Engebi Island, bomb Ponape Island.

 

Following strong preparatory bombardment, the US 4^th Marine Division lands on the northwest coast of Tinian, beginning at 0830 hours, against light opposition. While the landing is in progress, the 2^nd Marine Division conducts a diversionary demonstration to the south and then returns to the landing site and puts the 1^st Battalion, of the 8^th Marines, ashore to operate under control of the 4^th Marine Division. The 4^th Marine Division pushes inland and secures the beachhead, which includes part of the old Ushi Point airfield on the north.

 

In Guam, the 77^th Division completes the relief of the 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade on the south beachhead and holds it with the 305^th and 306^th Regiments abreast, with the 305^th on the north. The 3^rd Marine Division continues to meet bitter opposition while endeavoring to take the heights commanding the north beachhead. General Geiger orders an attack for July 26, to link the beachheads and secure Orote Peninsula.

 

Alaska Theater

In the Aleutian Islands, two B-25s, from the 11^th Air Force, fly a negative shipping search.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, July 25,1944

 

European Theater

General Eisenhower directs that US forces in Normandy be regrouped under a new US army group, the 12^th Army. General Omar Bradley will head the new command and set the time of its activation.

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 494 – 1,581bombers and 500 fighters are dispatched to support a US First Army assault, Operation COBRA, with saturation bombing in the VII Corps area in the Marigny-Saint-Gilles region, just west of Saint-Lô

 

8^th Air Force Mission 295 – Late in the afternoon, 106 B-24s are dispatched to bomb the Brussels/Melsbroek Airfield, in Belgium, but they are recalled because of heavy cloud formations

 

The RAF dispatches 94 Lancasters and six Mosquitos to attack an airfield and signals depot at St Cyr. Meanwhile, 81 Lancasters, 11 Mosquitos, and one Mustang attack two launching sites and the Watten storage site.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 412 Lancasters and 138 Halifaxes to continue the attack on Stuttgart. Elsewhere, 114 Halifaxes, 11 Lancasters, and 10 Mosquitos attack the Krupp oil refinery at Wanne-Eickel. Meanwhile, 36 Lancasters and 15 Mosquitos bomb three launching sites and succeed in destroying the launching ramp at the Bois des Jardins site.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

During the morning, the 9^th Air Force sends a 11 B-26 and A-20 Groups to attack tactical targets in the vicinity of Saint- Lô, in support of the US First Army. In the afternoon, four Groups bomb bridges on the Seine and Loire rivers.

 

The US First Army launches a breakout assault, Operation COBRA, in the VII Corps zone, as weather conditions improve. General Lesley McNair, who recently replaced General Bradley as commander of the US 1^st Army Group, an organization confined to paper to deceive the enemy, is killed by a bomb while watching the attack. General DeWitt later replaces General McNair.

 

VII Corps attacks across the Périers–St Lô road on a narrow front, at 1100 hours, to force a passage through enemy positions in the Marigny–St Gilles region.

 

In the British Second Army area, Canadian II Corps attacks at 0330 hours, with the 2^nd Division on the right and the 3^rd Division on the left, pushing a short distance along the Falaise road against stubborn opposition, and then breaking off the attack. This action helps to divert the enemy away from COBRA.

 

Russian Front
Troops of the Second Baltic Front cut the Dvinsk–Riga road. Lwow is enveloped by forces of the First Ukrainian Front. Meanwhile, four Soviet columns are converging on Brest Litovsk.

 

Mediterranean Theater

In Austria, a force of 420 B-17s and B-24s, from the 15^th Air Force, bomb the Hermann Goring tank works in Linz, while other bombers hit the Villach marshalling yard and targets of opportunity in Austria and Yugoslavia.

 

Operating from USSR bases, 34 P-51s and 33 P-38s attack the airfield at Mielec, Poland, and return to the USSR, as part of Operation FRANTIC.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force A-20s hit a storage dump and rail lines while medium bombers pound bridges in northwestern Italy. Meanwhile, fighter-bombers continue to attack communications in the Po River Valley, hitting numerous targets and completely destroying a railroad bridge at Crema.

 

In US Fifth Army area, II Corps takes over the 88^th Division sector on the right flank of the Fifth Army, which was previously the right flank of IV Corps. The 88^th Division finishes clearing its zone below the Arno River and releases Task Force Ramey.

 

In the British Eighth Army area, XIII Corps continues to drive on Florence, reaching the next delaying line, extending through San Casciano, in the zones of the New Zealand 2^nd Infantry and South African 6^th Armoured Division.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 24 B-24s to bomb Yoyang, China, blasting the storage area and railroad yards. Meanwhile, a group of 51 P-40s and P-51s attack road and river traffic, troop compounds and cavalry units.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a group of 24 P-40s and P-51s to attack targets around Myitkyina, Kamaing, and Mogaung, in Burma.

 

The Myitkyina Task Force is further strengthened by the arrival of the 1^st Battalion, of the 90^th Regiment, of the Chinese 30^th Division. By now it is evident that the Japanese are preparing to abandon Myitkyina.

 

Indian Ocean

Warships of the British Eastern Fleet bombard a naval base on Sabang Island, off north tip of Sumatra, causing extensive damage. Carrier-based aircraft attack airdromes near the town of Sabang.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the airfield and other targets in Woleai Atoll. In New Guinea, bad weather again cancels strikes in the Vogelkop Peninsula, but C-47s complete 48 missions to Biak Island. Communications and troop concentration along the coast in the general area of Wewak are attacked throughout the day.

 

In the Aitape area, relief of Troop C, of the 112^th Cavalry, is finally accomplished after four days of strenuous efforts, as Companies B and E, of the 127^th Infantry, make contact and open an escape route. To exploit this success, the 1^st and 2^nd Battalions, of the 127^th Infantry, attack south to the Afua–Palauru trail, but the enemy remains in considerable strength in this region.

 

On Noemfoor, the 503^rd Parachute Infantry loses contact with the Japanese, who withdraw from Inasi area. The Kornasoren airfield is ready to accommodate one fighter group.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s continue to hit Tinian and Pagan islands. B-24s, based at Kwajalein Atoll, bomb Truk Atoll.

 

On Tinian Island, the 4^th Marine Division repels a determined Japanese counterattack, and inflects heavy losses to the enemy. T

 

On Guam, while the 77^th Division defends the south beachhead, the 3^rd Marine Division continues its attacks against the heights commanding the north beachhead. Efforts to close the four mile gap between the 3^rd Marine Division and the 77^th Division, shows some progress, but is still limited.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, July 26,1944

 

Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

President Roosevelt, General MacArthur, Admiral Nimitz, and Admiral Leahy meet to consider the strategy for the Pacific campaign. The feasibility of bypassing the Philippines in favor of Formosa is discussed. This question remains the subject of heated debate for some time to come.

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 496 – 192 P-47s attack the St. Just marshalling yards and the Givet fuel dump, in France. One P-47 is lost, with the pilot listed as missing in action.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 178 Lancasters and nine Mosquitos to attack the railway yards at Givors. In other action, 30 Mosquitos hit Hamburg, 11 hit Somain and two attack Saarbrücken.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

Bad weather forces the 9^th Air Force to recall several groups of B-26s and A-20s, assigned to support the US First Army, but about 160 aircraft manage to bomb a fuel dump at Senonches with good results.

 

In US First Army area, VIII Corps joins in Operation COBRA, attacking at 0530 hours on the west flank of the First Army, with the 8^th, 90^th, and 83^rd Divisions, from west to east.

 

VII Corps commits additional units to exploit the breakthrough.

 

V Corps attacks east of St Lô at 0600 hours, after artillery preparation by both British and US guns.

 

Eastern Europe
Soviet forces of the Leningrad Front take Narva, Estonia. Elements of the First White Russian Front reach the Vistula River, east of Radom.

 

Mediterranean Theater

15^th Air Force fighters, on the second shuttle mission, leave USSR Operations FRANTIC bases, strafe enemy aircraft in the Bucharest-Ploesti area, in Rumania, and return to their bases in Italy. In Austria, a force of over 330 B-17s and B-24s attack the Wiener Neudorf aircraft factory, the airfield at Markersdorf, Thalerhof, Zwolfaxing, and Bad Voslau, and targets of opportunity in the Vienna area. Also hit are the Szombathely Airfield, in Hungary, and oil storage at Berat, Albania.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force A-20s bomb fuel supplies, while B-25s and B-26s hit bridges in northern Italy, at Ronco Scrivia, Vado, Asti, Ostiglia, Carasco, Verona, and Poggio Renatico. Fighter-bombers attack road and rail bridges in northern Italy, at several points, strafe and bomb many gun positions, destroy or damage over 20 aircraft at the Valence Airfield, and hit numerous targets of opportunity.

 

In the US Fifth Army area, IV Corps relieves infantry units as ordered. Task Force 45, consisting of the 91^st Anti-Aircraft Artillery Group, 107^th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Group, and the 2^nd Armored Group, is organized under the headquarters of the 45^th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Brigade. Task Force 45 replaces the 34^th Division on the west flank.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 27 B-25s and three P-40s to attack the town of Tengchung, China, breaching the southeast wall in several places. Meanwhile, a group of 32 P-40s and P-38s attack targets of opportunity throughout the Tengchung, Lungling, and Mangshih areas. Elsewhere, 97 P-40s attack troops, horses, trucks, fortified points river shipping, the airfield at Hengyang, and other targets of opportunity at numerous locations in or near Siangtan, Changsha, Hengshan, Fulinpu, Leiyang, Pingkiang, Hengyang, Chaling, and Nanyo.

 

On the Salween front, the Japanese defending Sung Shan request and receive air support that damages Chinese batteries and temporarily brings the attack to a halt. After preparatory aerial bombardment, the Chinese attack Tengchung in force, with mortar and artillery support, and seize Laifeng, a fortified peak dominating the approaches to the town. At the same time, other Chinese forces attack the southeast wall of the town, but cannot get over it.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 42 P-40s to attack the Myitkyina area, in Burma, while 16 P-51s hit the Mogaung and Kamaing sectors. About 20 other fighter-bombers hit targets of opportunity at Hopin, Bhamo, Myothit, Wuntho, and the northern part of Mandalay. Elsewhere, nine B-25s bomb storage sheds at Mohnvin.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s again hit supply areas, communication, and other targets on Woleai Atoll. In New Guinea, B-24s bomb airfields at Babo and Ransiki, while A-20s and B-25s, along with RAAF fighter-bombers, hit troop concentrations, small shipping, mortar positions, shore guns, and other targets of opportunity along the Hollandia- Aitape-Wewak coastline, while other B-25s bomb Langgoer.

 

In the Aitape area, since the enemy appears to be preparing for further attacks in the Afua sector, US forces in this region are rearranged for defense. No large-scale attacks are forthcoming, each side being in the dark as to the strength and disposition of the other’s forces.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s and B-25s, from Saipan Island, pound Tinian Island, while B-25s, from Engebi Island, attack Ponape Island.

 

On Tinian, the 2^nd Marine Division completes its landing, and is committed to action, resuming command of the 8^th Marines. The 4^th and 2^nd Marine Divisions, with close air, naval gunfire, and artillery support, make a coordinated attack that progresses rapidly against light resistance, securing the northern quarter of the island, including the Ushi Point Airfield and Mt. Lasso.

 

On Guam, an attack to clear Orote Peninsula opens after heavy preparatory bombardment during which seven battalions of artillery are employed. The 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade, with the 4^th Marines on the left and the 22^nd Marines on the right, begins to clear the narrow neck of the peninsula and gains 1,500 yards, despite difficult jungle terrain. The 3^rd Marine Division repels a strong enemy counterattack against the north beachhead and, in close combat, eliminates enemy infiltrators who have succeeded in penetrating their lines.

[dschneck]

Thursday, July 27,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 498 – 26 B-17s are dispatched to hit coastal batteries at Ostend and the Cap Gris Nez/Calais area but weather prevents bombing. In Belgium, 120 B-24s hit a Luftwaffe communication center at Brussels/Vilvorde, a coastal battery at Gravelines, and hit oil installations and industrial plants at Ghent.

 

The RAF dispatches 36 Lancasters, 24 Stirlings, and 12 Mosquitos to attack five V-weapon sites. All targets are cloud-covered and most of the bombing is “confused and scattered.”

 

8^th Air Force Mission 499 – A force of 193 P-38s, P-47s and P-51s fly fighter-bomber mission against rail traffic south of Rouen and Amiens.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 30 Mosquitos to Stuttgart and 12 other aircraft on resistance operations.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

Bad weather causes the 9^th Air Force to recall B-26s and A-20s sent to bomb bridges over the Loire and Seine rivers.

 

In US First Army area, VIII Corps is hampered more by delaying obstacles than by enemy opposition, as it moves forward on the west flank of the First Army.

 

In the VII Corps area, the 1^st Infantry and the 2^nd and 3^rd Armored Divisions make a main effort southward, while other elements of VII Corps facilitate their movement and expand positions on the flanks of the salient.

 

V Corps extends west during the day to include the 35^th Division, which takes the high ground just west and south of St Lô.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the Second Baltic Front seize Dvinsk, on the Dvina River. Bialystok falls to forces of the Second White Russian Front, after a hard battle of about a week. Columns of the First Ukrainian Front take Lwow and Stanislawow.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of 366 B-17s and B-24s to bomb an armament works at Budapest, Hungary.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium and fighter-bombers concentrate on bridges in the Po River Valley and northwestern Italy, throughout the day.

 

In British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, the enemy falls back toward Florence, as the New Zealand 2^nd Division takes San Casciano.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s bomb scattered lights and vehicles in the Po River Valley.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 17 P-40s, from the 14^th Air Force, hit river and lake shipping south of Yogang, and in the Siangtan area, strafe truck columns south of Changsha, and bomb and strafe troops, horses, and compounds in the Nanyo area.

 

On Salween front, after mopping up on Mt. Lai-feng, the Chinese count some 400 Japanese dead for their loss of 1,200.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends over 40 fighter-bombers to attack Taungni, Myitkyina, the Kamaing-Mogaung area, and a bridge at Sahmaw, all in Burma.

 

In Burma, the 3^rd Battalion, of NEW GALAHAD, succeeds in taking the northern airstrip at Myitkyina and turns it over to the 209^th and 236^th Engineering Battalions to defend. The Japanese garrison of Myitkyina is becoming less aggressive.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s hit the airfield on Woleai Atoll and supply areas on Mariaon and Tagaulap islands, in the Caroline Islands. In the Moluccas Islands, B-24s bomb the airfield at Lolobata and Miti, while B-25s hit the Galela Airfield, on Halmahera Island. B-24s bomb Laha, on Amboina Island, Namlea, on Buru Island, and Cape Chater and Dili, on Timor Island. In New Guinea, B-24s and B-25s bomb shipping and air facilities at Ransiki, Moemi, and Babo, hit a freighter in Kaiboes Bay, and bomb anti-aircraft positions at Kokas, while A-20s blast fuel dumps at Nabire. P-39s strafe concentrations and small vessels along the west coast of Geelvink Bay, as A-20s, B-25s, and fighter-bombers hit troop concentrations, supply dumps, gun positions, barges, and a variety of other targets along the coast from Aitape, to Wewak, to Cape Moem.

 

In the Aitape area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 127^th Infantry, of South Force, drives south beyond the Afua–Palauru trail, but returns to the starting line when the enemy threatens its communications.

 

In Wakde-Sarmi area, the 6^th Division, less Regimental Combat Team 20, begins to leave for the Vogelkop operation.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s and B-25s, from Saipan Island, hit Tinian Island, while B-24s, from the Marshall Islands, bomb Truk Atoll. Elsewhere, B-25s, based at Makin Island, hit Jaluit Atoll.

 

On Tinian, after a preparatory bombardment, the Marines continue their attack and advance rapidly, clearing the northern third of the island by 1600 hours. The Ushi Point Airfield is now under repair.

 

On Guam, the 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade continues to clear Orote Peninsula.

[dschneck]

Friday, July 28,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 501 – 180 B-24s are dispatched to northwestern France V-weapon sites, fuel dumps and a railroad bridge, escorted by a group of 235 P-47s and P-51s, and 111 B-24s, escorted by 53 P-51s, are dispatched to hit Brussels and Vilvorde fuel and supply depots. All the B-24s are recalled because of cloud cover over the targets. Meanwhile, 766 B-17s are dispatched to bomb the synthetic oil plant at Merseburg, Germany, the oil refinery at Leipzig/Taucha, and the Wiesbaden marshalling yards.

 

The RAF dispatches 159 Halifaxes, 20 Mosquitos, and 20 Stirlings to attack two launching sites and the Forêt de Nieppe storage site. One Halifax and crew are lost.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 494 Lancasters and two Mosquitos on the last raid of the current series of missions on Stuttgart. Meanwhile, 187 Halifaxes, 106 Lancasters, and 14 Mosquitos are sent to Hamburg, and 119 other aircraft attack the flying bomb stores area at Forêt De Nieppe again.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy 9^th Air Force

In France, the IX Bomber Command provides support of the US First Army, bombing rail bridges, supply dumps and ammunition dumps in the Foret de Conches, Dreux, and Le Mans areas.

 

The US First Army orders exploitation of the breakthrough and rapid pursuit of disorganized enemy troops. In the VIII Corps area, Combat Command B, of the 4^th Armored Division, races down the Périers–Coutances road and takes Coutances by 1700 hours. With the fall of Coutances, Operation COBRA has largely accomplished its purpose.

 

In the VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division and the 1^st Infantry Division make contact with VIII Corps near Coutances.

 

XIX Corps, attacking to exploit the breakthrough, extends west to include the 30^th Division and Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division, in their current positions.

 

In the V Corps area, the 35^th Division continues south along the east bank of the Vire River to St Suzanne-sur-Vire. The 2^nd Division, whose 9^th Infantry has been relieved by the 10^th Infantry, of the 5^th Division, takes St Jean-de-Baisants. The 5^th Division straightens the battle line in a limited advance.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the First White Russian Front overrun Brest Litovsk. Jaroslaw and Przemysl, on the west bank of the San River, fall to forces of the First Ukrainian Front.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of 345 B-17s and B-24s to attack two oil refineries at Ploesti, Rumania, and a marshalling yard at Florina, Greece. P-51s and P-38s provide support for the Ploesti raid.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force light, medium, and fighter-bombers hit targets in the Po River Valley, concentrating on bridges. Some fighter-bombers attack motor transport in the Rhone River Valley in France.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 18 B-25s, with fighter support, to attack the Yoyang railroad yards, in China. Other B-25s, in groups of one to three aircraft, hit a Yellow River bridge and the White Cloud, Tien Ho, and Hankow airfields. Meanwhile, 18 P-40s hit the Pailochi Airfield, destroying several aircraft; and a group of over 30 P-40s and P-51s, on armed reconnaissance, hit troop concentrations, river and road traffic and other targets of opportunity at Leiyang, Chaling, Chinlanshih, and in the Tungting Lake area.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, the 10^th Air Force sends over 100 fighter-bombers to hit the Myitkyina, Kamaing, Mogaung, and Taungni areas. 16 others attack targets of opportunity at Bhamo, Indaw, Mohnyin, and hit a bridge at Sihet, while eight B-25s pound a troop area at Sihet.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Targets in Woleai Atoll are bombed by four squadrons of B-24s, from the Far East Air Force (FEAF), hitting the airfield and supply area. Laha, on Amboina Island, and Cape Chater, on Timor Island, are hit by B-24s, while B-25s bomb supply dumps at Maumere, on Flores Island, in the Lesser Sunda Islands. In New Guinea, B-24s and A-20s pound the airfields at Manokwari and Babo, bivouac areas at Kasoeri, and shipping in Kaimana Bay. P-39s hit Windissi and Geelvink Bay villages, while A-20s and fighter-bombers blast stores, troop concentrations, communications targets, barges, and targets of opportunity in the Wewak, Cape Moem, and But areas.

 

On Biak, organized resistance ends as mopping up of the Ibdi Pocket draws to a close, but general mopping up continues for some time.

 

In the Aitape area, South Force of PERSECUTION Covering Force shortens the lines to improve its defensive positions and to insure the safety of its supply base, pulling back again from Afua.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s and P-47s, based on Saipan Island, bomb and strafe Tinian Island.

 

On Tinian, Marines continue to advance rapidly against light resistance from the retreating enemy and clear the Gurguan Point Airfield.

 

On Guam, on the Orote Peninsula, Marine and Army tank reinforcements are provided to the 4^th Marines, of the 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade. They then spearhead an attack during the afternoon that brings the 4^th Marines abreast of the 22^nd Marines, at the east end of the airstrip. The final beachhead line is gained as the 3^rd Marine and the 77^th Infantry Divisions join the north and south beachheads. The 3^rd Marine Division, reinforced by the 3^rd Battalion, of the 307^th Infantry, clears Mt. Chachao and Mt. Alutom, opening the road from Adelup Point to Mt. Tenjo. Company A, of the 305^th Infantry, of the 77^th Division, moves to the top of Mt. Tenjo with little difficulty and is relieved there by the 2^nd Battalion, of the 307^th Infantry.

[dschneck]

Saturday, July 29,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 503 – 1,228 bombers and 755 fighters are dispatched to targets in Germany and France:

 

The RAF sends 50 Halifaxes, 16 Stirlings, and 10 Mosquitos to attack the stores dump at Forêt De Nieppe.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 43 Mosquitos to Frankfurt, with some bombs falling on Mainz, 20 miles away, and the German night-fighter airfields at St Trond and Coulommiers.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

In France, bad weather cancels all IX Bomber Command missions. Fighters fly armed reconnaissance in the Rouen, Amiens, Beaumont-en-Beine, Tours, Vendome, and Le Mans areas, furnish assault area cover, carry out armed reconnaissance of enemy installations and movement in the battle area, and provide cover in support of the US First Army.

 

In the US First Army area, VIII Corps continues pursuit with the 6^th and 4^th Armored Divisions abreast spearheading, and motorized combat teams of infantry following.

 

VII Corps’ attack swerves from the southwest to the south, and reaches the general line from Cerences, to Hambye, to Percy. Enemy tank columns withdrawing along the highway from Roney to St Denis-le-Gast suffer extremely heavy losses under air, artillery, and tank attacks.

 

In the XIX Corps area, the 29^th Division is committed on the right flank of XIX Corps, relieving elements of Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division.

 

V Corps pushes quickly toward Torigny-sur-Vire.

 

Mediterranean Theater

Bad weather cancels all 15^th Air Force bombing operations. 14 P-38s, taking off from USSR bases, sweep the Kecskemet, Hungary area.

 

Italian Campaign

In Italy, bad weather cancels 12^th Air Force medium bomber operations, but fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit buildings at Diano Marina and bridges, rail lines, airfields, and vehicles in northern Italy.

 

In the British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, the Indian 8^th Division, on the west flank of XIII Corps, reaches the Arno River, near Empoli. The 4^th Division takes Monte Scalari after a hard battle.

 

During the night, A-20s, from the 12^th Air Force, bomb Savona and surrounding areas.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (India)

The 20^th Air Force sends over 70 B-29s, operating out of Chengtu, China, to bomb the Showa Steel Works at Anshan, China, and harbor at Taku. The first B-29 to be shot down on a combat mission falls to five fighters near Chenghsien, which the B-29 bombs after engine trouble causes an abort from the primary mission. Another B-29 bombs Chinwangtao before making a forced landing at a friendly field near Ankang.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 26 B-24s to bomb a storage area in Samah Bay, on Hainan Island, China. Meanwhile, 27 B-25s hit Yulin harbor, the Hankow Airfield, the Kaifeng railroad yards, and the town of Tengchung. A group of over 80 P-40s and P-51s, on armed reconnaissance, hit bridges, troops, supplies, and river, road, and rail traffic throughout a vast area including the towns of Liling, Sinsiang, Hengshan, Changsha, Siangtan, Chaling, Liuyang, and Chuchou.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, about 100 fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb the Myitkyina, Kamaing, and Mogaung areas and strafe Indaw. Over 20 others attack targets at Myothit, Chyahkan, Mainghka, Nawna and Nansawlaw, and hit a bridge at Panghkam. Elsewhere, a troop area at Naungtalaw is bombed by nine B-25s.

 

General Giffard, Commanding General of the 11 Army Group, orders General Slim, Commanding General of the British Fourteenth Army, to draw up detailed plans for Operation CAPITAL (an attack across the Chindwin River into Mandalay).

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb supply areas in Woleai Atoll, also hitting the nearby islands of Mariaon and Tagaulap. Other B-24s bomb airfields at Boela, on Ceram Island, Namlea, on Buru Island, and Cape Chater, on Timor Island. In New Guinea, B-24s pound Moemi, Sagan, Otawiri, and Urarom, while B-25s hit oil targets at Karaka, shipping off Sorong and Cape Fatagar, and a supply village west of Babo. Meanwhile, P-39s bomb Windissi and strafe troop concentrations along the west shore of Geelvink Bay, for the third consecutive day, and, in northeastern New Guinea, bombers and fighters continue pounding the north coast, hitting troops, bridges and stores at Wewak and along Harech Creek, and targets of opportunity in the Yakamul area.

 

In the Aitape area, General Hall decides to counterattack with the 124^th Infantry, reinforced by the 2^nd Battalion, of the 169^th Infantry. The 1^st Battalion, of the 169^th Infantry, relieves the 2^nd Battalion, of the 124^th Infantry, of the task of patrolling the Palauru–Chinapelli region.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s continue to hit Tinian Island, while B-24s hit Truk Atoll and B-25s attack Ponape Island.

 

On Tinian, the 2^nd and 4^th Marine Divisions continue to clear Tinian.

 

On Guam, the 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade clears tenacious enemy defenders from the Orote airstrip and completes the capture of the peninsula by 1700 hours.

 

North Pacific Area

Three B-24s, from the 11^th Air Force, fly bombing and reconnaissance runs over Shimushu Island and Paramushiru Island sites, including Kurabu Cape installations.

[dschneck]

Sunday, July 30,1944

 

European Theater

Headquarters of the European Theater, issues an order regularizing, under the 8^th Air Force Composite Command, certain special and provisional units, which are carrying out special tactical activities. This is a result of suggestion made on March 2, by Lieutenant General James Doolittle, Commanding General of the 8^th Air Force, that units engaged in CARPETBAGGER, H2X (blind-bombing), night leaflet, and weather missions, be put under centralized control.

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 505 – A force of 237 P-47s and P-51s fly sweeps of Evreux, St Quentin, Paris and Orleans, France, shooting down three Luftwaffe and destroying nine more on the ground. One P-51 is lost, with the pilot listed as missing in action.

 

The RAF dispatches 462 Lancasters, 200 Halifaxes, and 30 Mosquitos to bomb six German positions in front of a mainly American ground attack in the Villers Bocage Caumont area.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 450 A-20s and B-26s to bomb enemy defenses in the Chaumont area, in support of the US First Army. Fighters fly escort, cover the assault area and armored columns, and carry out armed reconnaissance in the Orleans-Paris area. In other action, over 200 C-47s fly supply and evacuation missions to the continent.

 

In US First Army’s VIII Corps area, the 6^th and 4^th Armored Divisions speed toward Granville and Avranches.

 

In the VII Corps area, the 1^st Infantry and the 3^rd Armored Divisions continue south, on the right flank of VII Corps, while units to the east mop up.

 

XIX Corps repels a strong counterattack on the right flank near Percy, but makes little forward movement because of strong opposition.

 

V Corps runs into stout resistance as it continues southward. The 5^th Division succeeds in crossing the Torigny-sur-Vire–Caumont road on the left flank, but progress elsewhere is negligible.

 

The British Second Army, having regrouped, renews its offensive with powerful air support. VIII Corps, on west flank of the Second Army, attacks astride the Caumont–Le Bény-Bocage road, with the 11^th Armoured Division on the west and 75^th Division on the east, pushing beyond La Fouquerie and Les Loges.

 

XXX Corps attacks with the 43^rd Division on the west and 50^th on the east to the left of VIII Corps. Progress is slow, particularly in the east.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends over 300 bombers to attack targets in Hungary and Yugoslavia. P-38s and P-51s escort the missions.

 

Italian Campaign

Overcast in the western Po River Valley causes some 12^th Air Force medium bombers to abort, but several bridges at Ovada, Bistagno, Cherasco, and Ferrara are successfully attacked. Fighter-bombers attack road and rail bridges in northern Italy, hit shipping between Savona and Ventimiglia, silence eight flak guns at the Ferrara bridge, and hit several transportation targets of opportunity.

 

In British Eighth Army area, the New Zealand 2^nd Division begins an attack on the Pian dei Cerri ridge, in the region west of Route 2.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 11 B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, pound the town of Wuchang. Meanwhile, a group of over 70 P-40s and P-51s attack a bridge and the town area at Liling, railroad yards at Hsuchang, and troop concentrations, storage, and road, river and rail traffic in areas around Yungfengshih, Puchou, Hengyang, Chuchou, Chaling, Tungting Lake, and Liuyang. In French Indochina, a group of over 20 P-40s and P-38s hit shipping and road traffic around Hanoi, Lang Son, Dong Dang, Mon Cay, and Campha Port.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends over 30 fighter-bombers to attack Myitkyina and the Kamaing-Mogaung area, in Burma, and hit a bridge at Sihet.

 

The commander of Japanese forces at Myitkyina, Burma, issues withdrawal orders and commits suicide.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

The supply area on Woleai Atoll is again bombed by Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, while other B-24s and P-38s attack the airfield and oil installations at Boela, on Ceram Island. More P-38s attack shipping off east Ceram Island, off Amboina Island, and near Talaga, Sanana Island, in the Moluccas Islands. B-25s hit airfields at Penfoei and Koepang, on Timor Island, while B-24s hit Morotai Island, in the Celebes Islands. In New Guinea, P-39s support Allied ground forces on Biak Island and continue to patrol western Geelvink Bay, hitting barges in Bentoni Bay and troops at Idorra. In other action, bombers and fighters continue to pound troop concentrations, barges, ships, fuel dumps, communications and other targets between Wewak and Aitape.

 

On New Guinea’s Vogelkop Peninsula, Task Force TYPHOON lands on the north coast near Mar, without preparatory bombardment in order to attain surprise. The first wave goes ashore at 0701 hours, one minute late. The left flank advances 800 yards inland to the low hills and the right flank 2,500 yards west along the coast to the mouth of Wewe River. An amphibious force, consisting of the 6^th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop, with a mortar section, and riflemen of the 1^st Battalion, of the 63^rd Infantry, lands on Middleburg Island, at 0730 hours. They then move to Amsterdam Island. Neither of these small islands is defended. Task Force TYPHOON has no battle casualties. General Sibert takes command ashore at 1020 hours. Air assistance is not required.

 

In the Aitape area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 124^th Infantry, joins its regiment on the Driniumor River in preparation for a counterattack in the sector of North Force. South Force patrols actively. Company G, of the 127^th Infantry, is surrounded by the enemy on the high ground west of Afua.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s and P-47s, from Saipan Island, again hit Tinian Island. B-25s, from Makin Island, bomb Jaluit Atoll.

 

On Tinian, Marines push steadily southward against increasingly stiff resistance, capturing the town of Tinian and compressing the Japanese into about five square miles at the southern tip of the island. The Island Commander takes command of Garrison Forces.

 

On Guam, General Geiger issues orders for the pursuit of enemy forces moving northward, to commence on July 31.

[dschneck]

Monday, July 31,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 507 – 1,295 bombers and 701 fighters are dispatched to hit targets in Germany and airfields in France

 

The RAF sends 127 Lancasters and four Mosquitos to bomb the railway yards at Joigny La Roche, and 97 Lancasters and six Mosquitos to attack the ends of a railway tunnel at Rilly La Montage, which is being used for flying-bomb storage.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 104 Lancasters, 76 Halifaxes, and 22 Mosquitos to attack two launching and two storage sites.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of around 500 A-20s and B-26s to attack bridges on the Seine, Loire, Mayenne, and Ruisseau la Forge rivers, and a fuel dump at Foret de la Guerche.

 

In US First Army’s VIII Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division’s Combat Command R, attacking in the coastal sector, overruns Granville and the entire division moves southeast to the Avranches area.

 

In the VII Corps area, the 1^st Infantry Division and Combat Command A, of the 3^rd Armored Division, drive rapidly to Brécey, on the right flank of VII Corps, and secure the crossing of the See River.

 

XIX Corps continues its attacks toward Tessy against heavy resistance. The 30^th Division overruns Troisgots, north of Tessy.

 

V Corps drives south toward the Vire River, with the 35^th Division taking Torigny-sur-Vire.

 

In the British Second Army area, VIII Corps gets forward elements across the Soulevre River near Le Bény-Bocage. The Guards Armoured Division reaches Le Tourneur.

 

XXX Corps takes Cahagnes and is approaching Jurques.

 

The Canadian First Army takes command of the Canadian II Corps.

 

Eastern Europe
In Latvia, troops of the First Baltic Front seize Jelgava, near the Gulf of Riga, threatening to isolate German Army Group North. Third White Russian forces press forward toward East Prussia, with elements entering Kaunas (Kovno), the former capital of Lithuania, where street fighting is in progress. Troops of Second White Russian Front also continue toward East Prussia. Closing in on Warsaw, Poland, the First White Russian Front takes Siedlce.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends over 360 bombers to attack targets in Rumania.

 

Italian Campaign

In Italy, bad weather grounds 12^th Air Force medium bombers, but fighter-bombers manage to hit several bridges in the western Po River Valley, and destroy around 50 railroad cars and damage numerous others. Meanwhile fighters strafe airfields.

 

In US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, Task Force Ramey, consisting of elements of the 1^st Armored Division, with tanks and tank destroyers, relieves the 91^st Division on the right flank of IV Corps. The 91^st Division is transferred to II Corps, to relieve the 88^th Division. II Corps now has command of three of the Fifth Army’s four infantry divisions: the 88^th, the 91^st, and the 85^th.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 12 B-24s to bomb the Wuchang railroad yards, in China, while B-25s, operating individually or in pairs, bomb Hengshan, Siangtan, and Hankow and attack the Tien Ho, White Cloud, Hengyang, and Wuchang airfields. Meanwhile, a group of over 60 P-40s and P-51s attack troop compounds, town areas and road and river traffic at several locations in or near Changsha, Hengyang, Kaishowkiao, Liling, Luchi, and Liuchow.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 20 fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, hit Myitkyina, 11attack the Kamaing-Mogaung area, 12 bomb a bridge at Mohnyin, 14 support ground forces near Myitkyina, and 11others hit targets of opportunity at Sahmaw, Bilumyo, and Pinhe. In other action, nine B-25s pound the Hopin troop area.

 

In British Fourteenth Army area, IV Corps headquarters is withdrawn to India and its components on the Tiddim road are transferred to the command of XXXIII Corps, which now has full responsibility for forcing enemy back across the Chindwin.

 

The Japanese are in full retreat down the Tiddim road.

 

XV Corps, on Arakan front, has engaged in patrolling throughout June and July despite heavy monsoon rainfall.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s again strike Woleai Atoll, while airfields at Lolobata and Galela, on Halmahera Island, also are hit by B-24s. In New Guinea, P-39s continue to hit villages on the west coast of Geelvink Bay, and in northeastern New Guinea, fighter-bombers continue pounding Japanese concentrations and targets of opportunity on the north coast, particularly between Wewak and Yakamul. Elsewhere, A-20s support Australian ground forces in the Hansa Bay area, hitting troop positions west of the Sepik River and troop concentrations at Singarin and Kopa.

 

In the Vogelkop area of New Guinea, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 1^st Infantry, of the 6^th Division, moves by sea to Cape Sansapor and makes an unopposed landing at 0844 hours. Sansapor Plantation and village are quickly secured and defensive positions established. Cape Sansapor is found to be unsuitable for a PT boat base but is to become site of a radar warning installation.

 

In the Aitape area, the 124^th Infantry, reinforced by the 2^nd Battalion, of the 169^th and dubbed TED Force, begins to counterattack in the North Force sector at 0800 hours, under direction of Colonel Edward Monte Starr. The four battalions cross the Driniumor River and advance in separate columns toward Niumen Creek, which three of the four reach, the other being halted 800 yards short by enemy rear guards.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s and P-47s, based on Saipan Island, bomb and strafe Tinian Island, while more B-25s, from Makin Island, pound Nauru Island, and B-24s, from the Marshall Islands, bomb Truk Atoll.

 

On Tinian, the Marines continue south over rugged terrain, against moderate resistance. An unusually heavy bombardment by naval vessels, aircraft, and artillery precedes their attack.

 

On Guam, the 3^rd Marine and the 77^th Infantry Divisions begin pursuit of the enemy northward, with the 3^rd Marine Division on the left. They reach the first phase line, extending generally from Agana on the west, to Yona on the east, without trouble. However, the 77^th Division meets some enemy troops at Yona and a skirmish slows their progress.

 

In Hawaii, the 81^st Division begins preliminary rehearsals for Operation STALEMATE, the invasion of the Palaus.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, August 1,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 508 – 1,291bombers and 432 fighters are dispatched to attack airfields, bridges and tactical targets in France.

 

The RAF dispatches 385 Lancasters, 324 Halifaxes, 67 Mosquitos, and one Lightning to attack numerous V-weapon targets. Due to bad weather, only 79 aircraft are able to bomb.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The XIX Tactical Air Command becomes operational, with the mission of supporting the US Third Army. The 9^th Air Force’s fighter and fighter-bomber groups are divided between the IX and XIX Tactical Air Commands. The IX Tactical Air Command continues its mission to support the US First Army.

 

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of about 250 B-26s and A-20s to bomb rail bridges at Mezieres-sur-Seine, Maintenon, Les Ponts-de-Ce, Chartres, Cinq Mars-la-Pile, Bouchmaine, Nogent-sur-Loir, and Bourth. IX Tactical Air Command fighters fly armored column and assault area cover, and armed reconnaissance in the battle areas.

 

XIX Tactical Air Command fighters carry out armd reconnaissance and rail bombing missions in the Alencon, Dreux, Chartres, Nogent-sur-Loir, Le Mans, Sable-sur-Sarthe, Laval and Sillele-Philippe areas.

 

The US 12^th Army Group, under the command of General Omar Bradley, becomes operational and takes command of US divisions engaged in France, these being divided between the US First and Third Armies. General Montgomery, however, is to retain command of all ground forces through the month of August.

 

The US Third Army, under the command of General George Patton, becomes operational with four corps under its command (VIII, XII, XX, XV) as well as Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI). Operating on the right of the First Army and on the extreme right of Allied forces, the Third Army is to secure the Brittany Peninsula and its valuable ports.

 

VIII Corps, consisting of the 4^th and 6^th Armored Divisions and the 8^th and 79^th Infantry Divisions, passes from the First Army to the Third Army command. With the 4^th and 6^th Armored Divisions spearheading, VIII Corps pours through the narrow Avranches corridor and fans out to the south, southwest, and west. Crossing the La Selune River at Pontaubault, the 6^th Armored Division swings west, into Brittany, in two columns and reaches the Pontorson– Antrain area. The 4^th Armored Division drives southward to cut off the peninsula and reaches positions near Rennes.

 

XV Corps, commanded by Major General Wade Haislip, consisting of the 83^rd and 80^th Infantry and the 5^th Armored Divisions, is concentrating between the Sée and Selune rivers to block enemy movement toward Avranches.

 

US First Army, command of which passes from General Bradley to Lt. General Courtney Hodges, directs all but V Corps to drive southeast. V Corps is to take the heights north of Vire and remain there until pinched out. VII Corps expands the Brécey bridgehead on the right flank, with the 1^st Division reinforced by Combat Command A, of the 3^rd Armored Division. The 4th Division, reinforced with Combat Command B, of the 3^rd Armored Division, pushes forward toward St Pois. The 9^th Division moves southward on the left flank of VII Corps.

 

XIX Corps overruns Percy and Tessy, with Percy falling to the 28^th Division and Tessy to Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division.

 

V Corps continues southward toward Vire on a two-division front after the 5^th Division is pinched out on the right flank by the British. The 5^th Division assembles in the rear as a reserve.

 

In British Second Army’s VIII Corps area, the 11^th Armoured Division overruns Le Bény-Bocage. To the left, the Guards Armoured Division is driving on Estry.

 

XXX Corps works forward toward Mont Pincon on the right and Villers-Bocage on the left. The 7^th Armoured Division is committed to drive on Aunay-sur-Odon.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, II Corps evokes strong opposition as it attacks below Caen in the Tilly-la-Campagne– La Hogue area.

 

In British I Corps area, the 49^th Division takes control of Sannerville–Troarn sector.

 

Eastern Europe
Polish underground forces revolt as the Soviet offensive nears Warsaw. Fighting continues throughout the next two months.

 

The First Baltic Front pushes to the Gulf of Riga at a point 25 miles west of Riga. Kaunas (Kovno), Lithuania, falls to the Third White Russian Front, which is headed toward Konigsberg.

 

Mediterranean Theater

Bad weather limits 15^th Air Force operations to reconnaissance missions.

 

Allied Force Headquarters (AFGH) changes the code word for the invasion of southern France from ANVIL to DRAGOON. Plans for the operation are largely completed by this time. The headquarters of the 6^th Army Group, commanded by General Devers, is formed at Bastia, Corsica, and will eventually take control of the US and French forces in southern France.

 

Italian Campaign

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers hit bridges in the Po River Valley, north of Genoa, at Canneto sull'Oglio, Balossa, Vigone, Ronco Scrivia, and Ovada, and the marshalling yard at Imperia. Fighter-bombers concentrate on airfields in the Po River Valley, at Villanova d'Albenga, Airasca, and Venaria Reale.

 

China – Burma – India Theater

General Stilwell, who is promoted to the rank of full general, arrives in Kandy, Ceylon, and Admiral Mountbatten leaves there for London, to discuss future strategy in the Southeast Asia Command (SEAC).

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches eight B-25s to bomb the Wuchang Airfield, in China. Two other B-25s hit the town of Siangyin, while over a group of 90 P-40s and P-51s, on armed reconnaissance, hit trucks, troops, supplies, and river shipping in and around Hengyang, Leiyang, Sinshih, Hengshan, Liling, Changsha, and Siangyin. The airfield and railroad yards at Hengyang are also bombed.

 

In China, the siege of Heng-yang continues, despite efforts of the Chinese to break through enemy lines.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends eight B-25s to bomb several points along the railway from Naba to Hopin, Burma. Fighter-bombers attack Shwegu, hit bridges in the Mohnyin area, and support ground forces in the Myitkyina and Taungni sectors.

 

Pacific Theater

US Army Forces, Pacific Ocean Areas, under the command of General Robert Richardson, supersedes the US Army Forces in the Central Pacific Area, and contains all Army forces of South Pacific area as well.

 

Army Air Forces, Pacific Ocean Area is activated at Hickam Field, Territory of Hawaii, with Lieutenant General Millard Harmon as Commanding General. Harmon is to be responsible to Lieutenant General Robert Richardson, Jr, Commanding General US Army Forces, Pacific Ocean Areas (USAF POA), for logistics and administration, and to Admiral Chester Nimitz, Commander-in-Chief, Pacific Ocean Areas (CINC POA), for operations of Army Air Foce air units, except those of the the 20^th Air Force. Harmon also is the Deputy Commander of the 20^th Air Force and is responsible directly to General Henry Arnold in all matters affecting the 20^th Air Force in the Pacific Ocean Area (POA).

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24's bomb Utagal Island, in the Caroline Islands, and the Namlea Airfield, on Buru Island, in the Moluccas Islands. In New Guinea, weather cancels scheduled strikes against the Vogelkop Peninsula area, but a few B-25s hit shipping in the islands to the west, sinking luggers off Kaboe and Salawat islands and strafing troops on the shores of MacCluer Gulf. The bad weather also restricts operations against the Wewak area, but a few P-39s strafe coastal trails.

 

A PT squadron begins operations from Amsterdam. Landing craft (LCTs) are shuttling aviation engineers and equipment to Middleburg, a more suitable airfield site than the mainland of the Vogelkop.

 

On Biak, engineers complete a 4,000 foot runway at the Borokoe airdrome. Mokmer Airfield has been extended to 7,000 feet.

 

In the Aitape area, TED Force gets the last of its four columns to Niumen Creek and consolidates its perimeters along the creek. The Japanese attack the right flank of South Force in strength, just as South Force is preparing a reconnaissance in force. About two enemy companies make suicidal onslaughts against Troop C, of the 112^th Cavalry, north of Afua, but are repulsed with heavy casualties. Troop G and elements of Company K, of the 127^th Infantry, then reconnoiter well beyond South Force’s perimeter, against scattered opposition.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B- 25s, based on Makin Island, in the Gilbert Islands, hit Ponape Island, in the Caroline Islands. P- 47s and P-61s, on Saipan Island, will continue steady daylight and night combat patrols and strikes, almost around the clock, until the fall of Guam Island on August 10. Most of the P-47 flying is devoted to neutralizing airfields on Pagan and Rota islands and to direct support of Marine and Army forces fighting on Saipan, Guam, and Tinian Islands.

 

On Tinian, organized resistance comes to an end, and Marines begin to mop up.

 

On Guam, the III Amphibious Corps continues to pursue the enemy northward, reaching the “0–2” phase line beyond the Agana–Pago Bay road.

 

Admiral Halsey issues outline plan for invasion of West Carolines.

 

The 7^th Air Force comes under control of Army Air Forces Pacific Ocean Area (AAF POA).

[dschneck]

Wednesday, August 2,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 510 – 319 bombers and 158 fighters are dispatched to attack oil and supply dumps and bridges in the Paris area.

 

The RAF dispatches 234 Lancasters, 99 Halifaxes, 40 Mosquitos, 20 Stirlings, and one Lightning to attack one flying bomb launch site and three supply sites. Elsewhere, 54 Lancasters attack German naval vessels in the port area of Le Havre. Two Lancasters from the raid on a flying bomb supply site are lost, with their crews..

 

8^th Air Force Mission 511 – 195 B-17s hit CROSSBOW (V-weapon) sites and rail bridges at Jussy, Aulnoye, Beautor, and Crocal de St Quentin. Elsewhere, 322 B-24s hit V-weapon sites in the Pas de Calais area, bombing the Thennes bridge, the Peronne Rail Bridge, the Achiet Airfield and targets of opportunity. Fighter escort is provided by 249 P-51s. Meanwhile, 49 P-38s, 183 P-47s and 51 P-51s fly fighter-bomber missions against rail and road transport in the Paris-Amiens-Brussels-St Quentin area, shooting down one Luftwaffe aircraft. Three B-17s, five B-24s, six P-51s and one P-47 are lost, with 40 men listed as killed or missing.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The IX Bomber Command halts bombing of bridges, fuel dumps, and similar targets in Brittany, except on the request of the 12^th Army Group, as the US Third Army wants the use of the bridges so they can have access to all of the fuel they may find during their advance across France.

 

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of around 300 A-20s and B-26s to attack bridges at Mezieres-sur-Seine, Mainvillers, Cinq Mars-la-Pile, Nantes, and Lisle, and ammunition dumps at Caudebec-les- Elbeuf and Le Lude.

 

General Eisenhower urges General Montgomery to press the attack.

 

In British Second Army area, VIII Corps is meeting stronger opposition above Vire. In the XXX Corps area, the 43^rd Division, on the right flank, continues southward toward Mont Pincon, while the 7^th Armoured Division continues toward Aunay. On XXX Corps left flank, the 50^th Division takes Amaye-sur-Seulles, west of Villers-Bocage. British VIII Corps, orders the US Third Army to secure a line from St Hilairedu, to Harcourt, to Fougères, and to Rennes, and then clear the Brittany Peninsula, bypassing St Malo if it cannot be taken easily.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, continuing west along the Brittany Peninsula, the 6^th Armored Division bypasses Dinan to the south, when strong opposition develops there.

 

In US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 1^st Division and attached elements of the 3^rd Armored Division speed southward toward Mortain. The 4^th Division continues toward St Pois. The 9^th Division cuts the road northeast of Villedieu. XIX Corps advances steadily southeast from the Percy–Tessy area, against moderate opposition from retreating enemy. In the V Corps area, continuing south toward Vire, with the 35^th Division on the west and the 2^nd Division on the east, V Corps crosses the Vire and Soulevre rivers.

 

Hitler orders a counterattack between Mortain and Avranches to isolate US forces in Brittany.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends over 330 bombers to hit targets in France and Italy.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers strike at bridges near the border between Italy and France, doing some damage at Gilette, Taggia, Alessandria, and at two points along the Var River.

 

In British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, the enemy begins a limited withdrawal behind the Arno River, as the New Zealand 2^nd Division maintains pressure on the ridge below Florence.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 11 B-25s and a group of 32 P-40s and P-38s to bomb and strafe the town of Tengchung, China. Meanwhile, a group of nine P-40s and P- 38s damage a bridge at Tingka, while eight P-40s attack Yangtze River shipping and supplies at Shihlipu.

 

On the Salween front, aircraft supporting the Chinese assault on Teng-chung succeed in breaching the thick wall at five places.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

10^th Air Force P-51s, P-47s and A-36s support ground forces in the Taungni area, of Burma.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the airfield at Yap Island, in the Caroline Islands, while B-24s and B-25s carry out wide sweeps over the Moluccas and Lesser Sunda Islands, hitting airfields at Maumere, Amahai, and Liang, and shipping off Ceram and Amboina Islands. On Timor Island, B-24s hit Cape Chater and Lautem, while B-25s bomb a camp near Poeloeti, and fighter-bombers hit coastal vessels and shore targets at Talaud, Sunda Islands. In New Guinea, A-20s bomb the Nabire Airfield. In the Wewak area, bombers and fighters hit a bridge and airfield at Boram and bridges, communications lines, troop concentrations, and other targets along the coastline, especially between But and Cape Karawop, and fighter-bombers hit Mapia Island

 

On Biak, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 163^rd Infantry, lands at Korim Bay.

 

In the Aitape area, South Force, of PERSECUTION Covering Force, remains on the defensive, repelling determined enemy attacks that probably cost the Japanese some 300 killed. TED Force prepares to attack the south in the region east of the Driniumor River.

 

Central Pacific Area

On Guam, Garrison Force takes the responsibility for the Orote Peninsula and Cabras Island, to release additional units for movement northward. General Geiger orders the attack pressed toward the Yigo area, where the Japanese are reportedly concentrating.

[dschneck]

Thursday, August 3,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 512 – 672 bombers and 352 fighters are dispatched to hit rail and other targets in the French/German border area and oil dumps and bridges southeast of Paris.

 

The RAF dispatches 601 Lancasters, 492 Halifaxes, and 21 Mosquitos, accompanied by one Lightning and one radio countermeasure aircraft, to the flying-bomb storage sites at Bois de Cassan, Forêt de Nieppe and Trossy St Maxim. Six Lancasters and their crews are lost.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 513 – 126 B-17s and 121 B-24s, escorted by 46 P-51s, hit V-weapon sites in the Pas de Calais. In Belgium, 76 B-24s, escorted by 36 P-47s, bomb Brussels/Vivorde, Ghent/Terneuzen and targets of opportunity. Additionally, 159 B- 24s, escorted by 96 P-51s, hit Harnes, Courchelettes, Pas de Calais V-weapons sites, Lille/Marquette, Lille/Sequedin and the Ghent marshalling yard. In other action, a group of 133 P-38s and P-47s fly fighter-bomber missions against rail traffic in the Metz-Strasbourg-Saarbrucken area. They shoot down one enemy aircraft and destroy another on the ground. Two B-24s are lost, with 16 men listed as killed or missing.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 180 A-20s and B-26s to bomb rail bridges, overpasses, and junctions at Mantes-la-Jolie, Chartres, La Chenaie and Merey, a fuel dump at Maintenon, and alternate rail targets in northern France. Fighters escort the bombers and a few C-47s, provide cover for ground forces, and fly armed reconnaissance over wide areas of northern and western France.

 

In the British Second Army area, VIII Corps makes little progress in the vicinity of Vire and Estry. XXX Corps is firmly opposed as it continues toward Mont Pincon, Aunay, and Villers-Bocage. XXII Corps, with the 50^th Division on the right and the 53^rd Division on the left, gains positions along the Villers-Bocage–Caen highway. The 53^rd Division overruns Noyers and Missy.

 

The 12^th Army Group directs the Third Army to complete the capture of the Brittany Peninsula with minimum forces, clear the region west of the Mayenne River and north of Loire River, and secure the crossings of the Mayenne River. First Army is to extend its operations to Mayenne–Domfront area.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, forward elements of the 6^th Armored Division get to within a few miles of Loudeac, when the attack is halted upon receiving orders to return and reduce Dinan. Task Force A moves forward to clear bypassed resistance in the St Maio area. The 13^th Infantry reverts to the 8^th Division, from its attachment to the 4^th Armored Division, and begins an assault on Rennes, while the 4^th Armored Division continues south, passing west of Rennes. In the XV Corps area, the 79^th Division reach Fougères.

 

In US First Army area, VII Corps overruns Mortain. The 4^th Division continues to close in on St Pois. The 9^th Division reaches positions just northwest of Fort de St Sever. XIX Corps, continuing steadily southeast, reaches St Sever-Calvados on the right and is about halfway to Vire on the left. V Corps meets stiffening resistance as it approaches Vire.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the First Ukrainian Front cross the upper Vistula River at Baranow, and within the next few days expand the bridgehead.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches over 600 bombers to hit targets in Germany.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers achieve fair results in attacks on bridges at Gilette, Levens, Lesegno, Albenga, and Asti, and at two locations along the Var River. Fighter-bombers have a successful day against communications targets, including road and railroad bridges, and airfields in northern Italy. At least 15 bridges are damaged or demolished and several parked aircraft are destroyed.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 23 B-24s to bomb the town of Yoyang, China, while six B-25s hit Mangshih. Elsewhere, a force of nearly 150 P-40s, P-51s, and P- 38s, on armed reconnaissance, attack targets of opportunity, including airfields, troops, town areas, supply areas, and rail, road, and river traffic at numerous locations.

 

On the Salween front, elements of the Chinese 107^th Regiment, of the 36^th Division, and the 348^th Regiment, from the 116^th Division, reach the top of the wall around Teng-chung, just east of the southern corner by 1500 hours. One platoon clings there throughout the night.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

10^th Air Force B-25s bomb Wanling, Burma, knock out a bridge at Panghkam, and attack bridges along the railroad from Naba to Myitkyina. P-51s and P-47s support ground forces north of Taungni and near Sahmaw, hit the towns of Shwegu and Mosit, attack the factory area at Mohnyin, and pound boats, troop concentrations, and gun positions at Myitkyina and Maingna.

 

On the ground, Myitkyina falls to the Myitkyina Task Force at 1545 hours. A raiding force of the Chinese 50^th Division leads the final assault, which begins before dawn. Of the 187 Japanese prisoners taken, most are patients. During the battle for Myitkyina, Allied forces have sustained the following losses:

· 972 Chinese and 272 Americans killed.

· 3,184 Chinese and 955 Americans wounded.

· 188 Chinese and 980 Americans sick.

The capture of Myitkyina is a major victory and permits support of the Pacific offensive from bases in China.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb Yap Island and islands in the Woleai Atoll group, destroying an ammunition dump and oil derrick at Boela, on Ceram Island, in the Moluccas Islands. In New Guinea, bad weather cancels scheduled strikes over the Vogelkop Peninsula area, however, B-25s hit troop concentrations at Bira and other points on the MacCluer Gulf, bomb Urarom, and support Allied ground forces on Biak Island, by hitting enemy troops in the Korim Bay area. Supply dumps, communications targets, and bridges are hit as fighter-bombers and A-20s continue to blast areas around But, Dagua, and Wewak.

 

In the Aitape area, TED Force attacks south along Niumen Creek, toward the Torricelli Mountains to cut the east-west trails and destroy the enemy.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from the Marshall Islands, pound Truk Atoll, in the Caroline Islands.

 

On Guam, renewing the attack toward Mt. Barrigada after regrouping, the 77^th Division finds that enemy has withdrawn northward. The 77^th then takes Barrigada village and its much-needed reservoir with ease. Progress beyond the village is slowed by difficult jungle terrain and light opposition.

[dschneck]

Friday, August 4,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 514 – 1,307 bombers and 746 fighters are dispatched to strategic targets in Germany and Belgium.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 515 -- The first APHRODITE mission is flown using four radio-controlled war weary B-17s as flying bombs. Targets are Mimoyecques, Siracourt, Watten, and Wizernes V-weapon sites, but none are hit. One drone B-17 crashes killing one crewman. Fighter escort is provided by 16 P-47s and 16 P-51s.

 

The RAF dispatches 169 Halifaxes, 112 Lancasters, and 10 Mosquitos to attack the Bois de Cassan and Trossy St Maxim flying bomb sites. 288 more Lancasters attack Bec-d'Ambes and Pauillac oil stores, with 27 Serrate Mosquitos used as escorts to the bombers. In other action, 27 Lancasters, two Mosquitos and one Mustang attack a railway bridge at Étaples, and three Mosquitos attack the Forêt de Nieppe storage site.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 516 – 154 bombers and 36 fighters are dispatched to hit V-weapon sites in the Pas de Calais, France, and coastal defenses at Middelkerke and Gravelines.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a group of 62 A-20s and B-26s to bomb targets in France. Fighters furnish cover over the battle area and for an armored column.

 

General Montgomery orders the British Second Army to continue pivoting eastward around XXII Corps and for the Canadian First Army to attack toward Falaise as soon as possible.

 

In the British Second Army area, VIII Corps is still held up by stiff resistance in the Vire and Estry areas. In the XXX Corps area, the 43^rd Division seizes Hermilly, northwest of Aunay. Villers-Bocage falls to the 50^th Division. XXII Corps, swinging eastward toward the Orne River southwest of Caen, is beyond the line running from Le Locheur, to Evrecy, to Esquay, to Notre-Dame, to Feugerolles-sur-Orne.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, a planned attack on Dinan is canceled and the 6^th Armored Division continues toward Brest instead. Advancing through the night, the 6^th Armored Division reaches the vicinity of Carhaix, which supporting Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI) forces report is strongly held. Task Force A and elements of the 83^rd Division reach the enemy stronghold of St Maio, where a prolonged struggle ensues. Rennes falls to the 13^th Infantry, of the 8^th Division. The 4^th Armored Division is driving toward Vannes.

 

The US First Army releases the 5^th Division to XX Corps, of the Third Army. In the VII Corps area, the 1^st Division, to which the 39^th Infantry, of the 9^th Division, and Combat Command B, of the 3^rd Armored Division, are attached, improves its positions in the Mortain area on the right flank of VII Corps. Patrols probe southward toward Mayenne. The 4^th Division, which releases Combat Command B, of the 3^rd Armored Division, to the 1^st Division, battles vigorously, but indecisively, for St Pois and the heights about the town. The 9^th Division pushes into Forêt de St Sever against strong opposition. XIX Corps is almost halted by stiffening resistance and mine fields. V Corps reaches its objectives above Vire, as the 2^nd Division continues to advance through the night, and halts to permit XIX Corps to cross its front to take Vire. The 30^th Division is transferred to V Corps from XIX Corps.

 

Mediterranean Theater

In an attempt to comply with the first direct Soviet request for US Army Air Force air strikes, the 15^th Air Force sends a group of over 70 P-38s and P-51s. After leaving Italy, they attack the airfield and town of Focsani, Rumania, and land at Operation FRANTIC bases in the USSR.

 

Italian Campaign

In Italy, bad weather severely hampers the day's operations.

 

Headquarters of the Allied Armies in Italy (AAI) alters the plan of attack on the Gothic Line. The new plan, OLIVE, calls for the main effort by the right flank of the British Eighth Army, which will be quietly strengthened, rather than attack against the center of enemy’s line as previously planned. The US Fifth Army, which is to be strengthened by attaching the British XIII Corps, is to make a subsidiary attack up the road from Florence to Bologna, after the enemy has thinned out in the center.

 

The British Eighth Army successfully concludes campaign for central Italy, as XIII Corps reaches the Arno River, at Florence, and drives into the southern part of the city. The Enemy has destroyed all bridges except the Ponte Vecchio.

 

A period of extensive regrouping is begun by the Eighth Army in preparation for the coming assault on the Gothic Line in the northern Apennines Mountains.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s, on armed reconnaissance in the Po River Valley, attack lights and vehicles.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 20 B-25s to bomb the town of Mangshih and airfields at Lashio and Hsenwi, in China. 32 P-40s hit the town area and targets of opportunity at Tengehung, while 70 P-40s attack troops, supplies, river shipping, and trucks at several points in the Tungting Lake- Yangtze River region, and four P-38s knock out two bridges at Mongyu.

 

On the Salween front, the Chinese break into Teng-chung, where a prolonged battle for the city ensues. In the XXXIII Corps sector, of the 11 Army Group’s British Fourteenth Army area, Tamu falls to the British 2^nd Division.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

10^th Air Force B-25s bomb the town of Sahmaw, Burma, in support of advancing Allied ground forces. P-51s also support ground forces in the Sahmaw-Taungni area, while fighter-bombers hit various targets.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the supply area on Utagal Island, the airfield at Yap Island and oil installations at Boela, on Ceram Island. In New Guinea, B-24s attack Fann, while B-25s and A-20s hit oilfields at Klamono and at Kasim Island and bomb the Nabire Airfield, and P-39s strafe Pegun Island. A-20s and fighter-bombers, in support of Allied forces, pound enemy concentrations, supplies, and barges east of the Driniumor River, at Abau, south of Torricelli Range, at Boram, and just west of Wewak.

 

In the Aitape area, the Japanese, suffering from casualties, logistic problems, and disease, withdraw southward from the front of South Force in the Afua area, after a last desperate attack that costs them over 200 dead. South Force patrols move forward in pursuit against scattered fire and make contact with TED Force. Both the main assault force and the enveloping column of TED Force continue south, in the region between the Driniumor River and Niumen Creek, to the east-west trail. A Coordinated attack by TED Force and South Force, scheduled for this date, must be postponed until TED Force reaches the Driniumor River.

 

Central Pacific Area

In the Marianas Islands, Saipan Island based B-25s fly two strikes against Guam Island. B-25s, staging from the Marshall Island, hit Ponape Island.

 

On Guam, the 77th Division succeeds in reaching the “0–3” line, overrunning Mt. Barrigada, and makes contact with the 3^rd Marine Division to the left, and closing a dangerous gap.

 

General Geiger prepares to commit the 306^th Infantry, which is comparatively fresh, in pursuit toward Mt. Santa Rosa.

 

The 1^st Provisional Marine Brigade is relieved of defense duties on southern flank and held in reserve.

 

Alaska Theater

The 11^th Air Force sends four P-38s, accompanied by one B-25, to fly top cover for a naval force near Massacre Bay, Attu Island, in the Aleutian Islands. Meanwhile, four B-25s fly an uneventful shipping sweep.

[dschneck]

Saturday, August 5,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 519 – 1,171 bombers and 646 fighters are dispatched to attack strategic targets in the Magdeburg-Brunswick-Hannover region of Germany.

 

The RAF sends 1,148 aircraft to hit strategic targets in France.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 35 Mosquitos to attack the synthetic-oil plant at Wanne-Eickel.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

9^th Air Force A-20s and B-26s bomb rail bridges at six cities in northern and western France, and the marshalling yard at Compiegne. Fighters furnish cover for ground forces and fly armed reconnaissance over wide areas of northern France.

 

In British Second Army area, VIII Corps is clearing enemy pockets. In the XXX Corps area, Aunay falls to the 7^th Armoured Division, which pushes on toward Thury-Harcourt. XXII Corps closes along the Orne River, on seven mile front between Grimbosq and Caen.

 

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps is attacking west, southwest, south and east simultaneously. In the XV Corps area, the 90^th Division Task Force seizes Mayenne, and the 79^th Division is approaching Laval.

 

The US First Army adjusts the boundary between US and British forces and gives a new mission to V Corps. In the VII Corps area, the 1^st Division, reinforced, continues to consolidate its positions in the Mortain area and probe southward with patrols. The 4^th Division overruns St Pois and advances slightly beyond there. The 9^th Division pushes on through Forêt de St Sever. In the XIX Corps area, the 29^th Division progresses toward Vire, despite strong opposition. V Corps new mission is to drive through Vire to take the region between Tinchebray and St Jean-du-Bois, employing the 2^nd and 29^th Divisions. The 29^th is to remain under XIX Corps until it captures Vire, and the 35^th Division reverts to Third Army.

 

In order that operations controlled by the 9^th Air Force be developed in close association with the headquarters of the 12^th Army Group, the 9^th Air Force headquarters at Uxbridge and Grandcamp-les-Bains are closed and a single headquarters opened the following day, August 6, at Saint-Sauveur-Lendelin, France. The new location is near both the Advance Headquarters, 12th Army Group, and the Advance Headquarters, Allied Expeditionary Air Force (AEAF).

 

Italian Campaign

Bad weather again restricts 12^th Air Force operations, as fighter-bombers fly a few unsuccessful missions against bridges.

 

In British Eighth Army area, X Corps takes the crest of Mount il Castello.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 15 B-25s to bomb the town of Wanling, China, and the Lashio Airfield, in Burma. 36 P-40s again pound Tengchung, and, in the Tungting Lake area, over 50 P-40s attack communications targets, troops, and numerous trucks.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 14 B-25s to bomb targets in Burma, hitting the town area of Taungni and stores area at Bilumyo. 50 P-51s also pound the Taungni area, while 21 P-47s attack targets of opportunity throughout the widespread area around Bhamo.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb personnel and supply areas on Yap Island, while other B-24s bomb oil facilities at Boela, on Ceram Island, and a few bomb the Sasa Airfield, in the Philippine Islands. Meanwhile, B-25s hit villages and small boats near Seleman Bay, in the Celebes Islands, and afterwards bomb Besar Island, in the Sunda Islands. In New Guinea, B-24s attack a seaplane anchorage at Kokas, while P-39s strafe barges in the western Geelvink Bay area. Despite bad weather, P-39s manage to hit Luain gun positions and an ammunition dump.

 

In the Aitape area, the main body of TED Force is held up short of the main east-west trail, east of Afua. Stubborn enemy rear guards, are keeping the Driniumor River crossing-point open, but the flanking column reaches the trail about 1,500 yards east of the river.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Saipan Island, fly two strikes against Guam Island.

 

On Guam, the 306^th Infantry enters the center of the 77^th Division’s line and moves northwest to pinch out the 307^th Infantry, but they are slowed by enemy rear guards. Dense jungle on the 77^th Division’s right delays the 305^th Infantry. The 3^rd Marine Division continues steadily northward on the left flank.

 

Alaska Theater

An 11^th Air Force weather mission is followed by a shipping sweep, flown by two B-25s, which is aborted early due to bad weather.

[dschneck]

Sunday, August 6,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 524 – 1,186 bombers and 740 fighters are dispatched to attack oil refineries, aircraft, ordnance and other factories in Germany and V-weapon sites in France.

 

The RAF dispatches 107 Lancasters, 105 Halifaxes, and to bomb the Bois de Cassan and Forêt de Nieppe V-weapon sites, with one Lightning accompanying the Bois de Cassan raid. Meanwhile, 51 Halifaxes, six Lancasters, and five Mosquitos bomb the railway center at Hazebrouck. Elsewhere, 12 Lancasters and three Mosquitos hit the U-boat pens at Lorient. Three Lancasters and one Halifax are lost, with their crews.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 40 Mosquitos to attack the synthetic-oil plant at Castrop-Rauxel, and seven other Mosquitos to Cologne, with four more to the Forêt de Nieppe.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

9^th Air Force A-20s and B-26s hit bridges, fuel and ammunition dumps, and a locomotive depot at Beauvais, Beaumont-sur-Sarthe, Courtalain, Foret de Perseigne, and Blois.

 

The British Second Army undergoes enemy counterattacks between Vire and Mont Pincon.

 

The 12th Army Group orders the establishment of a bridgehead over the Sarthe River in the Le Mans–Alençon area.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, Combat Command B, on the right flank of the 6^th Armored Division, overcomes opposition south of Morlaix and at Lesneven. XV Corps, with major elements now across the Mayenne River, is driving rapidly on Le Mans.

 

In US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 1^st Division, relieved by the 30^th Division in the Mortain area, continues swiftly southeast, with the 3^rd Armored Division, to Ambrières-le-Grand and Mayenne, relieving elements of the 90^th Division, which is part of XV Corps, at Mayenne. In the XIX Corps area, the 29^th Division breaks into Vire and clears the city. With the fall of Vire to XIX Corps, V Corps is now out of contact with enemy.

 

General Montgomery orders a drive to the Seine.

 

Mediterranean Theater

About 700 B-17s and B-24s, from the 15^th Air Force, operating against targets in southeastern France, attack oil storage at Le Pouziii, Le Pontet, and Lyon, railroad bridges at Le Pouzin, Avignon, Tarascon, Rambert, and Givors, marshalling yards at Portes-les-Valences and Miramas, and submarine pens at Toulon. Meanwhile, 43 P-38s dive-bomb airfields at Orange/Plan de Dieu, and Valence, while more P-38s and P-51s fly about 200 sorties in support of bombing missions.

 

60 fighters take off from Operation FRANTIC bases in the USSR, attack the Craiova marshalling yard and other railroad targets in the Bucharest-Ploesti area, of Rumania, and land at Italian bases.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers strike bridges in southeastern France, in the Rhone Valley, and areas to the east, in or near Tarascon and Arles, and along the Var River.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s bomb shipping at Genoa, Finale Ligure, and Alassio, in Italy, and Monaco, in Monaco.

 

Headquarters of the Allied Armies in Italy (AAI) issues orders for preliminary operations before the assault on the Gothic Line.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 28 P-40s to again pound Tengchung, China. Meanwhile, a group of 47 P-40s and P-51s hit trucks, troop compounds, and gun positions in the Hengyang area, while 19 P-40s attack sampans and trucks around Changsha, and 20 others hit supplies, trucks, barracks, and targets of opportunity at Chefang and Mangshih, between Changsha and Hengyang, and between Siangyin and Siangtan.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches six B-25s to bomb the town area of Mohnyin, Burma, while two others destroy a bridge at Hsenwi. Meanwhile, 21 P-51 s hit four railroad bridges in the Naba-Pinbaw area, destroying two of them, while P-51s and P-47s hit numerous targets of opportunity at Mohnyin, Hopin, Bhamo, Myothit, Katha, Indaw, and other points in northern Burma, and a few P-40s strafe targets of opportunity in the Myitkyina area.

 

The British 36^th Division, which is moving south down the railroad corridor, seizes Sahmaw.

 

In the 11 Army Group’s British Fourteenth Army area, General Slim directs XXXIII Corps to pursue the enemy to the Chindwin River. Once there they are to occupy Sittaung and, if possible, Kalewa, then cross the Chindwin in the Kalewa area.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

The Yap Island supply area is bombed by B-24s, while heavy frontal weather activities over the Vogelkop Peninsula and the Moluccas Islands cancels strikes in that area. In New Guinea, B-25s and fighters, though restricted by the weather, support ground operations near Sarmi, hit gun positions at Dagua, and strafe fuel dumps and targets of opportunity at Cape Djeruen

 

In the Aitape area, Japanese rear guards that are protecting their withdrawal from Afua attack TED Force before dawn and bitter fighting ensues until a TED Force column laboriously outflanks the enemy and forces him to withdraw in the afternoon. When a new enemy trail is found to have been cut about 800 yards to the south of the main trail, TED Force prepares to cut it and move in on Afua from the southeast.

During the night, US aircraft begin night harassing attacks on Davao area of Mindanao, in the Philippines.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Saipan Island, strike Guam Island twice. B-25s, flying out of the Marshall Islands, hit Ponape Island, and others, from the Gilbert Islands, hit Nauru Island, in the Gilbert Islands, and B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, bomb Wotje Atoll, in the Marshall Islands.

 

On Guam, the III Amphibious Corps drives to the “0–4” line, gaining control of more than two thirds of Guam. A small, but determined force of Japanese, with tanks, attacks the 305^th Infantry, on the 77^th Division’s right flank, during the early morning and inflicts heavy casualties before abruptly retiring. The 305^th then moves forward about 1,000 yards to the “0–4” line with little difficulty. The 306^th Infantry reaches the 77^th Division’s left boundary, pinching out the 307^th Infantry.

[dschneck]

Monday, August 7,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 527 – 905 bombers and 471 fighters are dispatched to hit fuel dumps and bridges in France, but heavy cloud cover forces many aircraft to return with their bombs and other formations to be recalled.

 

The RAF dispatches 25 Lancasters and two Mosquitos to the U-boat pens at Lorient, but the raid is recalled.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 528 – Three B-17s are dispatched to fly a “Mico H” test mission, but only one aircraft completes the mission.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 529 – A group of 271 P-47s and P-51s fly fighter-bomber missions to marshalling yards and railroads north and east of Paris. They shoot down four aircraft. Three P-47s and two P-51s are, with all five pilots listed as missing in action.

 

In the USSR, a shuttle mission is flown in accordance with a Soviet request, as 55 B-17s and 29 P-51s attack an oil refinery at Trzebina, Poland. The aircraft return to Operation FRANTIC bases in the USSR.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 614 Lancasters, 392 Halifaxes, and 13 Mosquitos to attack five aiming points in front of Allied ground troops in Normandy.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 380 A- 20s and B-26s to bomb bridges at Nogent-sur-Seine and Neuvysur- Loire. Fighters escort the bombers, furnish defensive cover in the Vire, Laval, and Rennes areas, and support ground forces in the assault area.

 

In British Second Army’s XXX Corps area, the 43^rd Division completes the capture of Mont Pincon, inflicting and suffering heavy casualties during enemy counterattacks. XXII Corps maintains a bridgehead across the Orne River and attacks south along the river toward Thury-Harcourt.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, II Corps, with the Canadian 2^nd Division on the right and the British 51^st Division on the left, attacks south toward Falaise at 2330 hours, after a half hour of preparatory bombardment by heavy bombers.

 

To maintain close a association with ground forces, the headquarters of the IX Tactical Air Command and the headquarters of the XIX Tactical Air Command implement mobile units to accompany Advance Headquarters of the US First and Third Armies, as they advance rapidly to the east.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division closes in on Brest. Rear elements arrive outside the city too late in day to begin a concerted assault, thus giving the enemy time to strengthen their defenses and bring up reinforcements.

 

In the US First Army area, the Germans open a strong counterattack with massed armor toward Avranches early in morning, in an effort to break through to the sea and split US forces. The attack penetrates the battle line at the junction of XIX Corps and VII Corps, overrunning Mortain, and rolling on to Juvigny and Le Mesnil-Tôve before it can be stemmed with assistance of aircraft.

 

In the VII Corps area, the 30^th Division bears the brunt of the enemy counterblows and elements are isolated in Mortain area. To help stabilize the center of the VII Corps line, the 4^th Division and the 2^nd Armored Division are committed at once. Progress is made on the flanks of the enemy penetration, with the 9^th Division advancing slightly near Mortain and the 1^st Division crossing the Mayenne and reaching St Fraimbault-de-Prières on the south.

 

XIX Corps pushes southward to relieve enemy pressure in the Mortain area.

 

Lieutenant General Lewis Brereton relinquishes command of the 9^th Air Force to become Commanding General First Allied Airborne Army.

 

Eastern Europe
By this time, the Germans have about stopped the Soviet summer offensive. Soviet armies have driven over 400 miles from the Dnieper River to the Vistula River. Consequently, supply and communications lines are becoming overextended.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of 353 B-17s and B-24s to bomb two synthetic oil refineries.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s and B-26s bomb bridges at Les Censies, Ventimiglia, La Voulte-sur-Rhone, Livron, Avignon, and Pont-Saint-Esprit.

 

The US Fifth Army tentatively postpones D-Day of the offensive to August 19, and makes minor changes in the plan of attack.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 37 P-40s to hit Hengyang, China, and trucks, troops, and gun positions in the surrounding area. 21 P- 40s bomb Changsha, hitting rivercraft at Siangsiang, the wall at Tengchung, and Hsiaoshuipu.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

10^th Air Force B-25s destroy two bridges, damage two others, and hit targets of opportunity in areas around Naba and Mawhun, Burma.

 

Southwest Pacific Area 5^th

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb a power plant, anti-aircraft positions, and barracks area on Yap Island, a phosphate plant on Fais Island, in the Caroline Islands, and airfields at Galela and Lolobata on Halmahera Island, in the Moluccas Islands, where 35-50 aircraft are destroyed or damaged.

 

On Biak, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 162^nd Infantry, starts north along the Sorido–Korim Bay track to make contact with the 163^rd Infantry, which is moving south.

 

In the Aitape area, TED Force cuts the new Japanese trail below the main trail and drives westward toward the Driniumor River. South Force continues to patrol actively while awaiting the arrival of TED Force at the Driniumor. The Japanese appear to be in full flight.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends Saipan Island-based B-25s to hit Guam Island, twice during the day.

 

On Guam, the III Amphibious Corps, with air and naval gunfire support, attacks in the greatest strength yet employed on Guam, to clear the northern third of the island.

[6armyAS]

Friday, September 24, 1943

 

Elsewhere, Alamo Scouts begin a reconnaissance of the Cape Gloucester area in preparation for an invasion.

You state: "Elsewhere, Alamo Scouts begin a reconnaissance of the Cape Gloucester area in preparation for an invasion."

The Alamo Scouts were never on Cape Gloucester. Their first mission wasn’t until 27 Feb 1944. And they weren’t even formed until 28 November 1943.

Just saying :-)

 

[55rab]

August 7, 1944

The Germans begin a major counterattack just east of Mortain.