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WWII - 70 Years Ago


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Thursday, May 3, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater

8th Air Force Mission 977 – Operation Chowhound continues, as 399 B-17s are dispatched to drop food supplies in the Netherlands.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9th Air Force sends 132 A-26s to bomb the ammunition plant at Stod, Czechoslovakia.

 

Field Marshal Montgomery refuses an offer from a German delegation to surrender all German forces in the north, including those opposing the Red Army.

 

In the British Second Army area, XII Corps receives the surrender of Hamburg.

 

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the 359th Infantry, of the 80th Division, receives the surrender of Vseruby.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 103rd Division continues negotiations for the surrender of Innsbruck.

 

Eastern Europe

Continuing west, through Mecklenburg and Brandenburg on a broad front, troops of the Second White Russian Front effect a junction with British forces of the Western Front, along a line from Wismar to Wittenberge. To the left, troops of the First White Russian Front reach the Elbe River, southeast of Wittenberg, and link up with US forces of the Western Front.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In the ALFSEA’s (Allied Land Forces South East Asia) XV Corps area, the 36th Brigade, of the Indian 26th Division, enters Rangoon, while the 71st Brigade moves into Syriam, across the river from Rangoon.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Saigon, French Indochina, is bombed by Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, which greatly damage a boatyard and oil storage areas. On Luzon Island B-24s and P-51s pound the Ipo area, while A-20s and fighters support ground forces. In Borneo, B-25s continue support of ground forces on Tarakan Island and, with B-24s, carry out small raids against numerous targets on Borneo and Celebes. The Manggar Airfield is heavily hit by B-24s and P-38s, and US Navy airplanes hit warehouses in the Brunei Bay area.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area, the 3rd Battalion, of the 24th Division’s 19th Infantry, clears Davao, on Mindanao, which is in ruins, and patrols to Santa Ana.

 

On Negros Island, the 1st Battalion, of the Americal Division’s 164th Infantry, tries in vain to reopen the supply line in Negros Oriental.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army area, the 1st Marine Division continues to receive heavy, accurate enemy fire and makes little headway on XXIV Corps’ west flank.

 

During the night, the Japanese begin their only major counteroffensive of the Ryukyus Campaign, sharply stepping up air attacks and artillery fire, and attempting landings behind American lines, on the west and east coasts. The amphibious operations are costly failures, as 500 to 800 Japanese are killed, and most of their landing craft are destroyed. The enemy forces that succeed in landing are soon rounded up and wiped out.

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Friday, May 4, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

German Home Front

The Germans sign an instrument of surrender of armed forces in Holland, northwest Germany, and Denmark, at 1820 hours, to become effective at 0800 hours, on May 5. German troops in Neumarkt also surrender.

 

Austrian Home Front

German troops in Salzburg and Innsbruck surrender.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the enemy in Linz and Urfahr places heavy fire on 11th Armored Division columns, as they threaten these objectives. From Zwettl, Combat Command B drives southeast, to the Alterberg area. The 41st Cavalry continues southeast, taking Gallneukirchen, where Combat Command B is ordered to halt and attempt to make patrol contact with Soviet forces.

 

In the XX Corps area, the 65th Division completes its crossing of the Inn River, at Neuhaus, and, with the 260th Infantry on the left and the 261st Infantry on the right, continues east, toward Linz, reaching Eferding. The 80th Division continues to cross the Inn River, at Braunau. The 3rd Cavalry Group also crosses the Inn River, at Braunau.

 

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 7th Infantry, of the 3rd Division, crossing into Austria, advances through Salzburg to Berchtesgaden, without opposition.

 

In the XXI Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 141, of the 36th Division, clears the banks of Tegern Lake and Lake Schlier, including the towns of Tegernsee and Schliersee, and continues southward.

 

In the VI Corps area, the 103rd Division accepts the formal surrender of Innsbruck, at 1015 hours. Meanwhile, the 411th Infantry completes a motor journey through Innsbruck, to the Brenner Pass, by 0150 hours, and at 1051 hours effects a junction with the Fifth Army’s 88th Division, in Italy. Officers of the German Nineteenth Army enter the 44th Division lines to discuss surrender terms.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

The Intelligence and Reconnaissance (I&R) Platoon, of the 88th Division’s 349th Infantry, establishes contact with the US Seventh Army at Vipiteno, south of Brennero, on the Austro-Italian frontier.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s bomb the Tuguegarao area, on Luzon Island, while other B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers, in spite of bad weather, support ground forces in northern and southern Luzon and on Negros Island. P-38s pound Itu Aba Island, China. B-24s heavily damage oil installations at Saigon, French Indochina. On Borneo, B-25s and P-38s support ground forces on Tarakan Island, and B-24s hit Sandakan and Kota Baru, and on Celebes Island, bomb the Mandai and Masamba airfields.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, elements of the 25th Division’s 161st Infantry, seize Mt. Haruna, 300 yards west of Balete Pass, and, for some days to come, remain there patrolling and consolidating. The 2nd Battalion, of the 27th Infantry, has advanced along Wolfhound Ridge, about 3,000 yards from Lone Tree Hill, and the 3rd Battalion is relieving it.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area, 24th Division forces mop-up in the Davao area, on Mindanao.

 

On Samal Island, the Intelligence and Reconnaissance (I&R) Platoon, of the 24th Division’s 19th Infantry, lands to reconnoiter.

 

On Negros Island, the 1st Battalion, of the Americal Division’s 164th Infantry, continues their efforts to reopen the supply line in Negros Oriental.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

The 7th Air Force dispatches 22 B-24s, from Angaur Island, to bomb antiaircraft positions on Koror Island, in the Palau Islands. 11 B-24s, from Guam Island, hit the airfield on Marcus Island.

 

20th Air Force Missions 140 to 143 – 49 B-29s attack airfields at Oita, Omura, Saeki, and Matsuyama on Kyushu, Shikoku Islands, and others attack targets of opportunity, in Japan. One B-29 is lost.

 

In the US Tenth Army’s XXIV Corps area, the Japanese open the ground phase of their counteroffensive, early in morning, and it too is a costly failure. Artillery pieces, brought out into the open to provide powerful support, are profitable targets for US counter battery fire. Japanese troops attack the line of the 7th Division and the 306th Infantry, of the 77th Division, in force, but are unable to achieve a breakthrough. Enemy survivors are caught in the open and subjected to destructive fire. Suicide planes are more successful than enemy ground or amphibious forces. From the evening of May 3, until evening of May 4, 17 American ships are sunk, at the cost to enemy of 131 planes destroyed. The Japanese maintain their well-organized Shuri defenses, while conducting their counteroffensive, and prevent very much forward movement by XXIV Corps.

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Saturday, May 5, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

German Home Front

German Army Group G, consisting of the German First and Nineteenth Armies, accepts Allied surrender terms at Haar, in Bavaria.

 

Austrian Home Front

German troops in Linz surrender.

 

Czechoslovakian Home Front

German troops in Klatovy surrender.

 

European Theater, Western Europe

The 21st Army Group halts offensive operations at 0800 hours, when the cease-fire order becomes effective. A military government is subsequently established within the British zone.

 

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the Urfahr–Linz industrial center falls to 11th Armored Division. Task Force Wingard enters Urfahr, at 1100 hours, and soon afterward crosses the Danube bridge, into Linz, which surrenders promptly.

 

In the 6th Army Group, hostilities cease, as German Army Group G, consisting of the German First and Nineteenth Armies, accepts Allied surrender terms at Haar, in Bavaria. The surrender is officially to take effect at noon on May 6, but both sides order immediate cessation of fighting.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The Indian 26th Division, of XV Corps completes the re-conquest of Burma, with the occupation of Rangoon, but large-scale mopping-up must still be conducted to destroy the Japanese Burma Area Army.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In the first Far East Air Force (FEAF) strike on the Amoy area, in China, B-24s bomb an airfield and oil storage plant. On Formosa, B-24s bomb the Shinchiku Airfield, while B-25s and fighter-bombers hit the Taito sugar refinery, Shoka railroad yards, and the Giran and Matsuyama airfields. On Luzon Island, A-20s and fighter-bombers continue to hit Cagayan Valley targets and support ground forces at various locations. In Borneo, B-25s and P-38s support Australian forces on Tarakan Island, P-38s hit the Miri waterfront, on the west coast, and the Keningau Airfield in the north, and B-24s bomb the Kuching waterfront on the west coast.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 25th Division continues the reduction of enemy defenses at the Balete Pass.

 

On Negros Island, the 1st Battalion, of the 164th Infantry, reopens the supply line in Negros Oriental.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

20th Air Force Mission 146 – 148 B-29s hit a navy aircraft factory and arsenal, and targets of opportunity, at Kure, Japan. The bomber shoot down 11 Japanese fighters. Two B-29s are lost.

 

In the US Tenth Army’s XXIV Corps area, the Japanese renew their unsuccessful efforts to break through, early in the morning, concentrating against the US line near the junction of the 77th and 7th Divisions. Some 450 enemy troops penetrate between Route 5 and Kochi, to regain the town of Tanabaru and the Tanabaru Ridge, cutting the 7th Division’s supply road. While the 306th Infantry, of the 77th Division, is containing enemy onslaughts, the 307th Infantry gains the reverse slope of the Maeda Escarpment and holds it against determined counterattacks, during the night. In the 7th Division’s zone, elements of the 17th Infantry battle enemy infiltrators in Tanabaru area.

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Sunday, May 6, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US Third Army area, the 1st Division, on V Corps’ left flank, attacks toward Karlsbad, on a broad front.

 

XII Corps opens a drive on Prague, Czechoslovakia.

 

In the 6th Army Group, the surrender of Army Group G to Allied forces becomes effective at noon.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma) 10th Air Force

In ALFSEA’s (Allied Land Forces South East Asia) XV Corps area, the 71st Brigade, of the Indian 26th Division, pushing north, along the Rangoon road, establishes contact with the Indian 17th Division, the British Fourteenth Army’s IV Corps, at Hlegu. The Japanese 28th Army is thus isolated from the rest of the Burma Area Army.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In Formosa, B-24s, from the Far East Air Force (FEAF), bomb the Matsuyama Airfield and nearby secondary targets, and later bomb Toshien, Toko, and Kiirun, while B-25s pound the town of Mato. A-20s and fighter-bombers fly numerous attack sorties, in support of ground forces in northern and southern Luzon Island, and fighter-bombers fly support missions over Panay Island. In Borneo, B-24s bomb the Kudat and Keningau airfields, P-38s hit Ranau and Labuan Island airstrips, while B-25s support Australian troops on Tarakan Island. B-24s bomb the Limboeng Airfield, on Celebes Island. B-25s, over French Indochina, bomb warehouses at Dong Hoi.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 25th Division continues to work forward, toward the Balete Pass.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 2nd Battalion, of the 145th Infantry, gains the top of Sugar Loaf Hill.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area, the 3rd Battalion, of the 24th Division’s 34th Infantry, attacks a bypassed enemy pocket in the Guma area, of Mindanao, but gains no ground.

 

On Negros Island, in preparation for a general drive southward, in Negros Oriental, the 2nd Battalion, of the 164th Infantry, seizes the ridge between the 1st Battalion and Company G.

 

In the Negros Occidental area, the 185th Infantry, of the 40th Division, seizes the high ground east and south of the Virgne Ridge and attacks, along the ridge, onto the Patog Plain.

 

On Tarakan Island, the Japanese are forced from the town of Tarakan.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army area, stubborn resistance on XXIV Corps’ right flank virtually halts the 1st Marine Division. Pivoting eastward, the 1st Marine Division unsuccessfully attacks Hill 60. Progress of the 5th Marines against the strongly fortified hills and ridges, south of Awacha, is negligible.

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May 7, 1945

General Jodl and Admiral Friedeburg sign the unconditional German surrender at General Eisenhower's HQ.

post-437-0-69428200-1430996515.jpg

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Monday, 7 May , 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

German Home Front

The German High Command surrenders all land, sea, and air forces, unconditionally, to Allied forces.

 

European Theater

8th Air Force Mission 984 – Operation Chowhound concludes.

 

The RAF concludes Operation Exodus, and Operation Manna.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers hit targets in the Cagayan Valley and support ground action in the Cervantes area, Balete Pass and north of Laguna de Bay. In Borneo, P-38s hit Bintula, Kudat, and Ranau, while B-25s, and P-38s hit gun positions and a headquarters on Tarakan Island. B-24s bomb the Bingkalapa Airfield, on Celebes Island, and the harbor at Soerabaja, Java. In French Indochina, B-25s hit railroad targets between Cap Batangan and Cap Varella.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 43rd Division continues toward Ipo, gaining about 8,000 yards.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

The US Tenth Army takes direct command of operations on south Okinawa.

 

XXIV Corps, with the 77th Division on the right and 7th Division on the left, presses slowly southward toward, Shuri and Yonabaru.

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Tuesday, May 8, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

US Home Front

President Harry S. Truman proclaims May 8 as V–E (Victory in Europe) Day.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In Borneo, Far East Air Force (FEAF) P-38s hit the Jesselton, Sengkawang, and Kudat airfields, while B-25s bomb the Kuching and Labuan Island airfield areas. B-24s, B-25s, and fighter-bombers continue to pound Cagayan Valley, on Luzon Island. On Mindanao Island, B-24s hit Davao, while P-38s hit the Labugan Airfield area. Other B-24s bomb the Mandai Airfield, on Celebes Island. B-25s bomb railway installations between Phan Rang and Binh Dinh, in French Indochina.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 145th Infantry renews its three-battalion attack, and takes Sugar Loaf Hill.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, the 1st Battalion of the 24th Division’s 21st Infantry, establishes a bridgehead across the Talomo River.

 

On Samal Island, after artillery preparation, Company K, of the 19th Infantry, lands and patrols to locate the enemy.

 

On Negros Island, the 164th Infantry, with two battalions abreast, attacks southward, in Negros Oriental.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

Rain hampers ground, air, and naval operations on Okinawa. The 1st Marines, of the 1st Marine Division, concentrates on blasting the enemy from caves, on the reverse slope of Nan Hill, in preparation for renewing their assault on Hill 60.

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Wednesday, May 9, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

European Theater, Western Europe

All hostilities in the European Theater of Operations are officially terminated at 0001 hours B Central European Time, as the surrender act becomes effective.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb two airfields in the Canton area, in China. On Luzon Island, A-20s and fighters fly offensive sweeps over the Cagayan Valley and support ground forces in the Cervantes, Baguio, and Balete Pass area and the Ipo-New Bosoboso-Infanta area. On Mindanao Island, B-24s bomb the area around Dalirig and Maluko. P-38s, over Borneo, hit Brooketon, Sarawak and Tarakan Island.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the battle for the Balete Pass nears the end, as the 27th and 161st Regiments, of the 25th Division, establish contact in this region.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 3rd Battalion, of the 145th Infantry, seizes Mt. Binicayan. The 2nd Battalion improves its positions near Sugar Loaf Hill. The 1st Battalion patrols in the Wawa sector.

 

In the XIV Corps area, a patrol of the 158th Infantry eliminates an enemy party in the Bicols, the only Japanese met in this area.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, the 1st Battalion, of the 24th Division’s 21st Infantry, holds its Talomo bridgehead, against strong opposition. Efforts to bridge the river fail. Continuing their attack on the Guma pocket, after an air strike, Company K, of the 34th Infantry, finds that Japanese have withdrawn.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 6th Marine Division prepares to attack across the Asa River, on III Corps’ west flank. Engineers construct a footbridge during night.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 77th Division’s frontal assaults toward Shuri make little headway.

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Thursday, May 10, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb an airfield in the Canton area, of China. A-20s and fighter-bombers hit Cagayan Valley targets and support ground action in the battle zones throughout Luzon Island. On Mindanao Island, B-24s hit Impasugong, Kalasungay, and Malaybalay and B-25s, in support of ground forces, attack Kibawe and Tagolaan. B-24s bomb the Makassar ship basins and the Limboeng Airfield, on Celebes Island, and shore targets at Balikpapan, on Borneo. B-25s, with fighter escort, hit Kari and communications targets of opportunity, on Formosa.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area of Mindanao, Regimental Combat Team 108 lands on the shore of Macajalar Bay, at 0830 hours, after an uneventful mine sweeping, and aerial and naval gunfire bombardment. Assisted by Filipino guerrillas, they establishes a beachhead without opposition.

 

Japanese guns on Samal Island shell the Command Post area, of the 24th Division’s 19th Infantry.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 22nd Marines, of the 6th Marine Division, begins an attack across the Asa Estuary, at 0300 hours, with rear elements wading after the Japanese destroy the footbridge. Against increasingly strong resistance, the Marines push forward, through Asa, and establish a bridgehead, 350 yards deep and almost a mile wide.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 77th Division continues the laborious reduction of enemy positions, north of Shuri.

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Friday, May 11, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Eastern Europe
Soviet forces finish clearing Czechoslovakia and Austria, and begin to mop-up isolated remnants.

 

China Theater

General Ho’s ALPHA forces have halted the Japanese drive on Chihchiang, by outflanking maneuvers and are forcing the enemy back.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the Toshien Airfield and the towns of Koshun, Kato, Takao, Toko, and Shajo, and B-25s pound Kagi. On Luzon Island, B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers continue to support the ground action near Paranum and in the Ipo Dam sector. On Borneo, B-24s bomb the Keningau Airfield and B-25s bomb the the Brunei Bay area. On Celebes Island, B-24s hit the Mandai and Boeloedowang airfields.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 1st Battalion, of the 25th Division’s 35th Infantry, and the 3rd Battalion, of the 27th Infantry, establish contact on Kapintalan Ridge, where over 200 caves have been sealed and almost a thousand Japanese dead counted.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, Regimental Combat Team 108, pushing steadily down the Sayre Highway, reaches positions commanding the Del Monte Airfield.

 

On Samal Island, Company K, of the 19th Infantry, searches for enemy guns that continue to fire on Davao, Mindanao.

 

In New Guinea, the 6th Australian Division seizes Wewak.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

The US Tenth Army, after a 30 minute artillery preparation to neutralize enemy guns and strongpoints, launches a coordinated attack with the III Amphibious Corps on the right and XXIV Corps on the left. The 5th Marines encircles enemy forces in the region south of Awacha.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, columns of the 306th Infantry, of the 77th Division, begin attacks toward Chocolate Drop Hill, also called Hill 130, northeast of Ishimmi, and Flattop Hill, to the southeast, which dominates the Dick hill mass, in the 96th Division’s zone, but meet intense fire and make little headway.

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Saturday, May 12, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) A-20s and fighter-bombers support ground forces on Luzon and Negros Islands. In French Indochina, B-24s pound several railroad and road bridges at Binh Dinh, Phu My, Bong Son, Lai Ha, Tuy Hoa, and Phu Hiep and attack the railroad yard at An Trach and other railroad targets. In Borneo, B-24s, B-25s, and P-38s hit targets in the Brunei Bay area, including Labuan Island, the Brooketon, and Jesselton airfields and troops on Tarakan Island. On Celebes Island, B-24s bomb the Makassar shipyards and the Limboeng Airfield.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, 43rd Division columns are converging on Ipo. The Japanese are driven from Hill 815.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, some elements of Regimental Combat Team 108 take the Del Monte Airfield, while others advance to positions southwest of Tankulan. The 124th Infantry renews its attack on a Colgan Woods strongpoint and overcomes resistance.

 

On Samal Island, aircraft and artillery bombard suspected enemy gun positions.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, while the 3rd Battalion, of the 6th Marine Division’s 22nd Marines, remains on the west coast above Naha, Company G, to the east, pushes forward, to Sugar Loaf Hill, the key point in the Shuri defenses southeast of Amike, but is forced back with heavy casualties.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 305th Infantry, of the 77th Division, continues their extremely slow advance, generally along Route 5, toward Shuri.

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Sunday, May 13, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Eastern Europe

The Red Army completes offensive operations, overcoming the last German resistance in Czechoslovakia.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In the Allied Land Forces South East Asia (ALFSEA) area, the West African 82nd Division reaches Gwa, without opposition, concluding operations in the Arakan sector.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) bombers and fighters pound Cagayan Valley targets and continue support of ground forces on Luzon Island.

 

In the US Sixth Army area on Luzon, I Corps finishes clearing the Balete Pass, gaining access to Cagayan Valley.

 

In US Eighth Army’s X Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 108, continuing down the Sayre Highway, on Mindanao, runs into strong opposition from Mangima Canyon and is delayed in the area for several days.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 6th Marine Division, although supported by a heavy volume of fire, continues to slowly gain ground, with heavy casualties. The 7th Marines completes the capture of Dakeshi Ridge, but suffers heavy casualties.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 306th Infantry, of the 77th Division, renews costly attacks for Chocolate Drop Hill, and tries in vain to take Flattop. Pressing their frontal assault in the east coastal sector, the 383rd Infantry succeeds in penetrating the eastern end of the Shuri line, by driving to northeast crest of Conical Hill and holding there against determined counterattacks.

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May 14, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

China Theater

Movement of Task Force MARS, the US 5332nd Brigade (Provisional), from Burma to China is complete. The move started on March 14.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) A-20s and fighter-bombers support ground forces on Luzon and Negros islands.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, forward elements of the 43rd Division reach the Ipo Dam.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

20th Air Force Mission 174 – 480 B-29s blast the urban area of northern Nagoya, Japan, and hit targets of opportunity. They shoot down about 20 Japanese fighters. 11 B-29s are lost.

 

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 22nd Marines, of the 6th Marine Division, charges Sugar Loaf and gains a feeble hold.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 306th Infantry, of the 77th Division, greatly depleted in strength, continues their vain efforts to take Chocolate Drop and Flattop.

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Tuesday, May 15, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb Shinchiku, Formosa. In Borneo, B-24s and B-25s hit the Miri and Kudat airfields and support ground forces on Tarakan Island. P-38s pound troop concentrations and gun positions on Mount Mandalagan, on Negros Island.

 

In US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, Regimental Combat Team 108, with air and artillery support, renews attacks in the Mangima Canyon sector of the Sayre Highway, against strong opposition. Elements of the 124th Infantry, of the 31st Division, guarding installations in the rear area, repel a counterattack by about 100 Japanese, killing 72.

 

On Samal Island, the main body of the 3rd Battalion, of the 79th Infantry, joins Company K. the Japanese withdraw from the island about this time.

 

On Negros Island, the 160th Infantry renews their assault on Dolan, in Negros Occidental, the target for an extensive aerial and artillery bombardment, and clears it, except for a pocket on the northern spur.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, a small Marine force, on the crest of Sugar Loaf, consisting of one officer and 79 men, of the 6th Marine Division’s 22nd Marines, withdraws under fire, when its position becomes untenable.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 382nd Infantry, of the 96th Division, continues to battle the enemy on the Dick hill mass. The 383rd Infantry improves positions on the spurs of Conical Hill, as elements advance up the northwestern spur, but are out of contact with others to the east.

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Wednesday, May 16, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

China Theater

In China, 14th Air Force B-24s continue to lay mines in the Yangtze River, while 33 B-25s and a group of 16 P-47s and P-51s attack railroad targets, barracks, a headquarters, bridges, town areas, river shipping, and targets of opportunity.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Nearly 100 P-38s, from the Far East Air Force (FEAF), pound targets in the Ipo Dam area with napalm, on Luzon Island. B-24s hit Balikpapan and Manggar, on Borneo, and Tondano, on Celebes Island, while B-25s and P-38s hit Miri, Brookton, Bintula, Ft. Brook, and a flak ship near Labuan Island, Borneo. P-38s also support ground forces on Tarakan. On Formosa, B-24s bomb Taichu and B-25s hit alcohol production plants and railroad yards.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 152nd Infantry opens an all-out attack for Woodpecker Ridge, after a preparatory bombardment, gaining a weak hold on the military crest and the forward slopes of the Twin Peaks.

 

In the XIV Corps area, General MacNider reports that the Bicols are secure.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 6th Marine Division, attacking with two regiments, toward Sugar Loaf, experiences its worst day of combat on Okinawa, as the enemy continues to viciously resist.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, efforts of the 307th Infantry to take Chocolate Drop and Flattop are again futile.

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Thursday, May 17, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

China Theater

The 14th Air Force sends 16 B-25s and about 100 fighters to disrupt communications and supply lines and hinder enemy withdrawal, from numerous locations of southern and eastern China.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

During sweeps over Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s and P-51s cause widespread damage, hitting railroad yards, bridges, and alcohol plants, and B-24s bomb airfields at Nanseiho and Matsuyama. Fighters fly over 130 sorties against the the Ipo Dam area, on Luzon Island.

 

In US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area on Luzon, the Japanese still hold Osboy Ridge.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

20th Air Force Mission 176 – Between 0300 and 0600 hours local, 522 B-29s attack the Nagoya urban area, in the last great attack on this city.

 

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, while the badly mauled 22nd Regiment, of the 6th Marine Division, conducts a holding action, the 29th Marines continues to attack for Sugar Loaf, after heavy naval gunfire, air, and artillery bombardment. Striking from the east, after the 1st and 3rd Battalions have opened the approach from the west end of Crescent Hill, the 2nd Battalion drives to the crest of Sugar Loaf, but falls back when ammunition is exhausted.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, Company E, of the 77th Division’s 307th Infantry, in a surprise, predawn attack, advances to the Ishimmi Ridge, west of the town of Ishimmi, where it is dangerously exposed to enemy fire from all sides and cannot be reinforced. The 3rd Battalion secures positions around Chocolate Drop and drives off the counterattacking enemy, then drives to the crest of Flattop, but is driven off.

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Friday, May 18, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

China Theater

In China, nine B-25s, from the 14th Air Force, blast the Siangtan supply areas, while eight B-25s, supported by seven P-51s, hit railroad targets and other targets of opportunity.

 

In the Fukien Province, the Chinese recover Foochow.

 

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

Movement of the Chinese Army in India, which consists of the Chinese 30th, 38th, and 50th Division, from Burma to China is begun.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the Taichu and Tainan airfields, while B-25s and fighter-bombers fly sweeps, hitting numerous targets.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area on Luzon, the 152nd Infantry renews its assault on Woodpecker Ridge, but continues to progress slowly.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, Regimental Combat Team 108, completing the capture of Mangima Canyon, is able to advance rapidly southward, along the Sayre Highway.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, Sugar Loaf falls to the 29th Marines, of the 6th Marine Division. The 29th Marines also seize part of Horseshoe, the commanding feature just southwest of Sugar Loaf.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 382nd Infantry, of the 96th Division, succeeds in holding the crest of Dick Hill, under fire from Flattop, and starts clearing the reverse slope.

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Saturday, May 19, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound Kiirun harbor. B-25s sweep the west coast, hitting several targets, including Toyohara, Nisui, and along the Ts'eng-Wen River, hitting a railroad yard, storage facilities, and damaging an alcohol plant on the Ts'eng Wen and fighters sweep the Giran, Tainan, and Heito areas. More B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers support ground forces throughout Luzon Island, concentrating in the Ipo Dam area. P-38s support ground action on Cebu Island. In Borneo, B-24s bomb the Oelin Airfield and, along with P-38s, attack targets on Tarakan Island.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area, the 152nd Infantry confines its activity against Woodpecker Ridge to local probing for next few days.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

The 7th Air Force dispatches 100 P-51s to escort B-29s to Tachikawa, Japan, but they abort due to weather.

 

20th Air Force Mission 178 – 286 B-29s make an abortive raid on the Tachikawa Aircraft Company and bomb the city of Hamamatsu, and hit targets of opportunity. Four B-29s are lost.

 

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 5th Marines, of the 1st Marine Division, further neutralizes enemy positions in the Wana Draw.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, direct fire is placed on Flattop and Dick Hill. The 382nd Infantry, of the 96th Division, is slowly expanding its hold on the reverse slope of Dick Hill.

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Sunday, May 20, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

China Theater

The Japanese are redeploying to defend Japan. They begin pulling back from Ho-chih, in Kwangsi Province, on a branch line to Kweiyang.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Despite bad weather, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s over Formosa bomb various communications targets and an alcohol plant at Meiji. B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers pound Cagayan Valley targets, on Luzon Island. On Mindanao Island, B-24s bomb Piso Point, and fighter-bombers support ground action in the Bukidnon area. In Borneo, P-38s hit Sandakan, Keningau, and Tarakan Island, while B-25s hit shipping at Balikpapan harbor and a nearby barracks area and sawmill.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, the 155th Infantry, of the 31st Division, drives northward, along the Sayre Highway, to positions commanding Malaybalay, and meets heavy enemy fire. The 2nd Battalion, continuing north, along the coastal road, reaches Tibungko. The 2nd Battalion, of the 34th Infantry, begins an assault on Hill 550, holding limited gains against violent nighttime counterattacks.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

The 7th Air Force sends 10 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb air operations buildings on Marcus Island. 16 P-47s, based on Saipan Island, strafe airfields on Moen and Eten islands, and a seaplane base and barges off Dublon Island, all in Truk Atoll. In Japan, nine P-47s, from Ie Shima, hit a hangar and two boats at Fukue-Shima, and 32 others hit airfields, railroads, buildings, and radar facilities, on Kyushu Island.

 

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 4th Marines, of the 6th Marine Division, attempts to clear the rest of the Horseshoe and Crescent features, which command Sugar Loaf, making limited progress on Horseshoe, and repels enemy counterattacks at night, inflicting more than 200 casualties.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 307th Infantry, of the 77th Division, finishes clearing Chocolate Drop and takes Flattop. The 382nd Infantry, of the 96th Division, gains additional ground on the reverse slope of Dick Hill. The 3rd Battalion, of the 381st Infantry, slowly pushes forward, toward Sugar Hill.

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Monday, May 21, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s blast numerous targets in the Cagayan Valley, while A-20s and P-51s support ground forces in the northwestern sectors. P-38s napalm-bomb the Ipo Dam and Marikina River sectors, and hit positions throughout Negro Island. In Borneo, B-24s hit Brunei, the Melak Airstrip, Samarinda shipyards, and troop concentrations on Tarakan Island. P-38s strafe railroad rolling stock in the Saigon area, in French Indochina.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s XI Corps area on Luzon, the 3rd Battalion, of the 152nd Infantry, renews their attack on Woodpecker Ridge, with fire support of the 1st and 2nd Battalions, and crosses the ridge to draw, between there and Regimental Objective Hill.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, after heavy preparatory fire, Company G, of the 34th Infantry, secures the rest of Hill 550, from which the Japanese have now withdrawn.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 6th Marine Division continues to clear toward the Asato River, on III Corps west flank, fighting for Horseshoe and Crescent, in the Japanese Sugar Loaf defense system.

 

In the XXIV corps area, with the capture of Sugar Hill, by the 3rd Battalion, of the 381st Infantry, the east slopes of Conical Hill are clear and the enemy’s right flank is turned. The 184th Infantry, of the 7th Division, starts southward, along the east coast at 1900 hours, to envelop Shuri. The Japanese decide to withdraw southward, from Shuri.

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Tuesday, May 22, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Formosa, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb Toshien and Okayama, while B-25s hit an oil plant west of Kagi and several targets of opportunity. B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers attack the Santa Fe, Fula, and Casambalangan areas, in the northern part of Luzon Island, and support ground forces in the Ipo Dam and Marikina areas, in the south. In Borneo, B-24s, B-25s, and fighter-bombers attack Jesselton, Kudat, Bintula, and Tarakan Island.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area on Luzon, elements of the 27th Infantry, of the 25th Division, are 2,000 yards southeast of Santa Fe.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, Regimental Combat Team 108, continuing steadily southward, along the Sayre Highway, reaches positions near Impalutao. The 155th Infantry, of the 31st Division, after taking undefended Kalasungay, continues their drive up the Sayre Highway, surprising an enemy force and inflicting heavy casualties.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

20th Air Force Mission 180 – During the night, 30 B-29s mine the Shimonoseki Strait and its approaches. One B-29 is lost.

 

In the US Tenth Army area, rains, intermittent during the past few days, become frequent and heavy, during the rest of month and early June, hampering operations. The Japanese begin withdrawing their supplies and wounded from Shuri.

 

III Amphibious Corps, with supporting armor immobilized by mud, curtails its activities sharply. The 4th Marines, of the 6th Marine Division, reaches the north bank of the Asato River, on the west flank, and send patrols across it, during the night.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 383rd Infantry, of the 96th Division, struggles for the next few days to reduce Love Hill defenses, in the region west of Conical Peak. The 184th Infantry, of the 7th Division, drives forward, unmolested, through the ruins of Yonabaru to the hills beyond.

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Wednesday, May 23, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon, Far East Air Force (FEAF) A-20s and B-25s hit Cagayan Valley and Balete Pass targets, P-51s support ground forces in the Baguio area and P-38s hit the Ipo-Antipolo areas. On Borneo, Tawau, Bintula, Samarinda, and Miri are hit by B-24s, Ft. Brook and Weston by B- 25s, and Tarakan Island by fighter-bombers.

 

In US Sixth Army’s I Corps area on Luzon, the 27th Infantry, of the 25th Division, is still stalled, in spite of tank assistance.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, the entire Sayre Highway is opened, as the 155th Infantry gains contact with Regimental Combat Team 108, south of Impalutao. The 2nd Battalion, of the 24th Division’s 19th Infantry, reaches the Ising area and makes patrol contact with Filipino guerrillas. The 1st Battalion, of the 21st Infantry, takes the road junction 1,700 yards north of the Talomo bridge. Artillery pounds the area between it and the 34th Infantry.

 

On Negros Island, the 160th Infantry overcomes the final opposition on Dolan Hill, in Negros Occidental, with the capture of a pocket on the north spur. The 185th Infantry continues slowly southward toward Hill 4055, the final enemy strongpoint in Negros Occidental.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

20th Air Force Mission 181 – During the night, 562 B-29s are sent to Tokyo, to bomb an urban-industrial area, south of the Imperial Palace, along the west side of the harbor. 17 B-29s are lost.

 

In the US Tenth Army area, the 6th Marine Division begins a drive from the Asato River to the Kokuba River, on III Amphibious Corps west flank.

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Thursday, May 24, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound Cagayan Valley targets, including Aparri. B-25s, A-20s, and P-51s hit numerous targets throughout the Valley and in northwestern and southern Luzon, including the Vira, Callang, Santa Cruz, Baguio, Balete Pass, Ipo, and Antipolo areas. Fighter-bombers also support ground forces on Negros Island. In Borneo, B-24s, B-25s, and P-38s attack Ft. Brook, Bintula, Tawau, Beaufort, Jesselton, along the Lawas River, and Malinau.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

The 7th Air Force dispatches 26 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb the airfield and surrounding area on Marcus Island. 120 P-51s, based on Iwo Jima Island, dispatched against Matsudo and Tokorozawa, Japan, abort because of bad weather.

 

In the US Tenth Army area, the Japanese intensify air activity, during the night, concentrating on airfields on Okinawa and Ie Shima, as well as shipping offshore. Some airborne troops are landed on Yontan field and destroy or damage a number of aircraft before being rounded up and killed.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the Japanese attack the 382nd Infantry, of the 96th Division, on Oboe Hill, in company strength, and force two companies of the 1st Battalion off the hill. The 1st Battalion is reduced to company strength. The Japanese retire, leaving 150 dead.

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Friday, May 25, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

Washington, D.C.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff approve a directive for Operation OLYMPIC, the invasion of the Japanese home islands, scheduled for November 1, 1945

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers fly numerous strikes and ground support missions. Fighter-bombers also support ground force on Cebu Island. In Borneo, B-24s bomb Oelin, Ft. Brook, and Tarakan Island, while B-25s and P- 38s hit Kudat, and P-38s also support ground action on Tarakan.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

The 7th Air Force sends 100 P-51s, based on Iwo Jima, to fly 73 strike sorties against the Matsudo and Tokorozawa airfields, in Japan. They shoot down eight Japanese aircraft and destroy 10 more on the ground. Three P-51s are lost.

 

20th Air Force Mission 183 – During the night, 470 B-29s pound the urban area of Tokyo, immediately south of the Imperial Palace, just north of the area bombed on May 23, including the financial, commercial, and governmental districts, as well as factories, homes and targets of opportunity. The bombers shoot down 19 Japanese fighters. 26 B-29s are lost.

 

In the US Tenth Army’s III Amphibious Corps area, the 4th Marines, of the 6th Marine Division, gains Machishi and most of the ridge line west of there. The Division Reconnaissance Company completes its crossing of the Asato River and only meets stragglers, as it pushes through that part of the city west of the north-south canal.

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Saturday, May 26, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

 

China Theater

Continuing their redeployment for the defense of Japan, the Japanese withdraw from Yung-ning, severing the land route to Indochina.

 

The Chinese recapture Nanning.

 

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s and P-38s sweep the west part of Formosa, causing extensive damage to a variety of communications and industrial targets. A-20s and fighter-bombers pound numerous Luzon Island targets, particularly in the Balete Pass area, and B-24s bomb Tuguegarao and Echague. Fighter-bombers also support ground forces on Cebu Island. In Borneo, B-24s, B-25s, and fighter-bombers hit Tarakan Island, Beaufort, Weston, Tenom, Trusan Haji, Sandakan, and Jesselton.

 

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area on Luzon, the 27th Infantry, of the 25th Division, finally clears the ravine, north of the Balete Pass, and gets a patrol into Santa Fe.

 

In the XI Corps area, the 151st Infantry, of the 38th Division, on the left of the 149th Infantry, has cleared the Wawa Road and secured a supply route.

 

In the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area on Mindanao, Company I, of the 31st Division’s 167th Infantry, bypasses enemy positions on the Talomo Trail, to reach the Pulangi River, near Sanipon.

 

Central Pacific Area (Battle of Okinawa)

In the US Tenth Army area, Japanese combat units begin withdrawal from Shuri and are targets for aircraft, artillery, and naval gunfire.

 

In the XXIV Corps area, the 184th Infantry, of the 7th Division, drives southward, along the east coast, to the next ridge line, with ease. The 32nd Infantry incurs heavy casualties while vainly attempting to take Dick Hill, in the Japanese defense line east of Chan.

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