WWII - 70 Years Ago

1,138 · May 10, 2014

Wednesday, May 10, 1944

Washington, D.C.

James V. Forrestal is appointed Secretary of the Navy, replacing Frank Knox, who died on April 28.

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 349 – A bomber mission to Germany is abandoned due to deteriorating weather.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 291 Lancasters, 187 Halifaxes, and 28 Mosquitos to bomb railway yards at Courtrai, Dieppe, Ghent, Lens and Lille. Meanwhile, 29 Mosquitos attack Ludwigshafen and two hit to Châteaudun, five fly radio countermeasure sorties, nine fly Intruder patrols and three fly Serrate patrols. Elsewhere, 26 other aircraft lay mines off Brest and Heligoland, and 28 aircraft fly resistance operations. For the night, one Halifax, 13 Lancasters are lost, with their crews.

10 RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

About 300 B-26s, from the 9^th Air Force, attack marshalling yards, airfields, and NOBALL targets in France, and Belgium. P-47s and P-51s dive-bomb targets in northwest Europe for the sixth straight day, but bad weather causes a large number of aborts.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, weather permits medium bomber operations for first time in several days, as 12^th Air Force B-25s hit bridges near San Giovanni Valdarno, Orvieto and Monte Molino, and the Terni viaduct. Meanwhile, B-26s attack bridges west of Arezzo, fighter-bombers continue attacks on roads and railroads north of Rome, also hitting targets in the areas of Avezzano, Civitavecchia, Furbara, Terni, Todi, Orvieto, Manciano, Perugia, Monte San Savino and La Saezia, and near Rome.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 485^th Bomb Group (Heavy), with B-24s, is declared operational, giving the 15^th Air Force its planned operational strength of 21bomber groups. The 52^nd Fighter Group, with P-51s, also begins operations on this date, making a total of six Fighter Groups.

The 15^th Air Force sends around 400 bombers to attack targets at Wiener Neustadt Austria, while B-17s bomb aviation industry targets, and B-24s bomb the industrial area and an air depot. Over 300 bombers are forced to abort due to bad weather which has halted operations for the past few days. Over 200 fighters provide support, but opposition is fierce and 21bombers and one fighter are lost. The fighters and bombers shoot down 50 enemy aircraft.

Italy Campaign

On eve of offensive against the Gustav Line and the drive on Rome, Allied dispositions are as follows:

· The US Fifth Army, with II Corps on left and the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) on the right, holds the sector from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the confluence of the Liri and Gari Rivers.

· The 36^th Division is in Fifth Army reserve.

· The British Eighth Army has British V Corps, with British XIII Corps on the left, and Polish 2 Corps the right, in the Adriatic coastal sector. XIII Corps is backed up by the Canadian I Corps, and Polish 2 Corps is backed up by British X Corps.

· The South African 6^th Armored Division is in the Eighth Army reserve.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

14^th Air Force P-40s sink six large junks and damage several others in Fan Tou Bay, China, and destroy several trucks between Wan Pa-Hsa and Mong Ho Pung, Burma. Meanwhile, 28 more P-40s have a very active day:

· Bomb Tengchung, China, strafe a nearby truck convoy, and damage bridges at Tingka, China, Bac Le, French Indochina, and Hsenwi, Burma.

· Hit a power dam at Tasa, French Indochina.

· Bomb a tank and truck dispersal area at Hsiangcheng, China.

· Hit over 30 railroad cars at Lang Giai, Dong Dang and Na Cham, in French Indochina.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, a group of over 70 B-25s, A-36s, P-51s, P-40s and 10 B-24s blast numerous targets, concentrating on barracks and storage in the Myitkyina-Mogaung vicinity, in Burma, and also hitting gun positions and bridges at Kamaing and railroad siding and buildings at Mohnyin. Meanwhile, 16 P-38s destroy several aircraft in strikes on the airfields at Aungban and Kangaung.

On the ground in Burma, H Force and K Force are now concentrated at Lazu.

During the night, on the Salween front Y Force begins crossing the Salween without incident.

Southwest Pacific Area

The 5^th Air Force sends a group of over 120 B-24s, A-20s and fighter-bombers, along with RAAF aircraft, to attack targets of opportunity along the northeast coast from the Hansa Bay area to Wewak, in New Guinea. Meanwhile, two B-24s hit the Mokmer Airfield. Elsewhere, 45 B-24s, of the Thirteenth Air Task Force, bomb the airfield on Eten Island, and warehouse area at Dublon Island, both located in Truk Atoll.

On the ground in New Guinea, after an air strike by the RAAF, Nyaparake Force pushes east from Babiang and takes Marubian without opposition.

General Headquarters Southwest Pacific Area (GHQ SWPA) issues instructions for the Wakde-Biak operation.

South Pacific Area

On New Britain Island, Air Command Solomons sends 41 fighter-bombers to attack the Tobera Airfield, while 11 B-25s hit Matupi Island, in the Bismarck Archipelago, and fighters on a sweep, hit trucks west of Keravat. On Bougainville Island, four B-25s bomb the Majuai Mission and 61 P-39s, some back from the Tobera strike, and 12 P-40s attack targets throughout the Buka-Bougainville Islands area, including a bridge over the Crepers River, a supply area at Mawareka, a barge at Chabai, a village on Schwarze Point, a pillbox at Gohi and the general area of the Porton Plantations.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Engebi Island, bomb Ponape Island, while B-25s, based on Makin Island, raid Jaluit and Wotje atolls.

Alaska Theater

The 11^th Air Force directs its components to place more emphasis on photographing and bombing of specific targets instead of general reconnaissance.

1,138 · May 11, 2014

Thursday, May 11, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 350 – 364 B-24s are dispatched to bomb marshalling yards in France:

· 144 are dispatched to hit Mulhouse, Belfort, the Orleans/Bricy Airfield and Mezidon/Pithiviers.

· 74 others are dispatched to hit Chaumont and Belfort again.

· 76 more are sent to Epinal and the Caen Airfield.

· 70 are dispatched to hit Chaumont a second time, but none bomb.

Escort is provided by 147 P-38s, 188 P-47s and 201 P-51s. The fighters destroy 10 enemy aircraft. Eight B-24s, three P-51s and two P-47 are lost, with 77 men listed as killed or missing.

8^th Air Force Mission 351 – In the afternoon, 609 B-17s are dispatched to hit marshalling yards in Belgium, France, Germany and Luxembourg. The primary targets in Belgium are Brussels, Brussels/Midi, and Liege. Targets in Germany are Saarbrucken Kons Karthaus and Ehrang, but also hit Luxembourg. Secondary targets include Thionville, France, Volkingen, Germany, and Bettembourg, Luxembourg. The 8^th and 9^th Air Forces provide fighter escort of 99 P-38s, 182 P-47s and 190 P-51s. The fighters shoot down 11 Luftwaffe aircraft. Eight B-17s and four P-51s are lost, with 89 men listed as killed or missing.

8^th Air Force Mission 352 – During the night, five B-17s drop 2.4 million leaflets over Denmark. Two airmen are killed during the mission.

During the night, four B-24s are dispatched on CARPETBAGGER missions.

During the night, 190 RAF Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos are sent to attack a large military camp at Bourg Léopold, in Belgium. Haze hampers the marking of the target and, after 94 Lancasters had bombed, the Master Bomber orders the raid to be abandoned, for fear of hitting the nearby civilian housing. In other action:

· 80 Halifaxes, 47 Lancasters, and eight Mosquitos attack Boulogne. Some bombs fall in the railway yards but the main weight of the raid miss the target and fall on nearby civilian housing, killing 128 civilians.

· 126 Lancasters and six Mosquitos hit Hasselt, in northeastern Belgium. The target was marked and 39 aircraft bombed, but all missed the railway yards because of thick haze and the Master Bomber ordered the bombing to stop.

· 105 Lancasters and five Mosquitos attack the railway yards at Louvain, near Rennes, but the main weight of the bombing hit the railway workshops and nearby storage buildings.

· 53 Halifaxes and six Pathfinder Mosquitos attack railway yards at Trouville, south of Le Havre. The bombing was accurate and a large explosion was seen.

· 53 Halifaxes and six Pathfinder Mosquitos attack a gun position at Colline Beaumont, near Le Touquet. The target proved difficult to mark and no results were established.

· Eight aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, six fly Serrate patrols, 12 aircraft lay mines off French ports, and three aircraft fly resistance operations.

For the night 14 Lancasters and two Halifaxes are lost with their crews.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends over 330 B-26s to attack airfields at Beaumont-le-Roger and Cormeilles-en-Vexin, and the marshalling yard at Mezieres/ Charleville, France, and Aerschot, Belgium. Bad visibility and failure to rendezvous with fighters cause over 100 aborts.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers, hampered by weather, attack Portoferraio, bridges near Orvieto and Ficulle, tracks at Piombino, viaduct at Poggibonsi and bridges at Certaldo and Signa. Fighter-bombers hit Fondi, rail lines northeast of Rome, the Littoria Airfield, rail facilities in the Perugia area, barge, harbor area, and factory in the Portoferraio area, and tracks near Castiglione d'Orcia. Meanwhile, other fighter-bombers attack numerous positions along the main front, in supprot of the US Fifth and British Eighth Armies.

The 414^th Night Pursuit Squadron, flying Beaufighters from Sardinia, sends detachments to Borgo and Ghisonaccia, Corsica.

Italy Campaign

The Allied Armies in Italy (AAI) opens their drive on Rome at 2300 hours, with a tremendous artillery bombardment of the Gustav Line by weapons of US Fifth and British Eighth Armies. While V Corps, under direct control of AAI, contains the Adriatic coastal sector, the US Fifth Army’s II Corps and the French Expeditionary Force (FEC), along with the British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps and the Polish 2 Corps attack. Tactical surprise is achieved, but the enemy rallies quickly.

The US Fifth Army jumps off first, moving forward under cover of the artillery bombardment. US II Corps, in the Gulf of Gaeta coastal sector, attacks with 85^th Division on the left, and the 88^th Division on the right. The 339^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, makes limited progress above Scauri, with elements securing positions on the slopes of Monte dei Pensieri and part of the San Martino Hill. But others make no progress against the San Domenico Ridge, southwest of Tremensuoli. The 338^th Infantry, coordinating its attack for the south Ridge, with that of 351^st Infantry, of the 88^th Division, toward San Maria Infante, is unable to take Solacciano or advance up the draw between the south Ridge and San Maria Ridge. Pushing north along the San Maria Ridge from the Minturno area, the 351^st Infantry gets forward elements to Hills 146 and 150. The 350^th Infantry, of the 88^th Division, in cooperation with the FEC to the right, attacks the hills southwest of Castelforte, and clears Ceracoli. On the left flank of the FEC, the 4^th Moroccan Mountain Division attacks toward Castelforte, in conjunction with left flank elements of II Corps. To the right, the 2^nd Moroccan Division overruns Monte Faito and Cerasola Hill.

In the British Eighth Army area, XIII Corps attacks across the Rapido River in the region between the Liri and Cassino, employing the 4^th Division on the north and the Indian 8^th Division on the south. The enemy vigorously opposes the crossings but a bridgehead is established. The Polish 2 Corps begins an attack in the Cassino area to the right of XIII Corps at 0100 hours, on May 12. X Corps, on the extreme right of the Eighth Army, secures the right flank of the assault forces and demonstrates to mislead the enemy.

China – Burma – India Theater (India)

On the ground in the British Fourteenth Army area, IV Corps regroups. The Indian 23^rd Division is given the responsibility for the Palel–Tamu road. The Indian 20^th Division drives north in two columns toward Ukhrul.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 24 P-40s knock out the main bridge north of Mangshih, bomb the town area of Lungchwanchiang, and in French Indochina, damage a radio station on Cat Ba Island, destroy several large junks off shore, and attack a power dam west of Cao Bang, buildings at Dong Dang, and boxcars and oil drums at Lang Giai. Meanwhile, six B-25s and 24 P-40s, with some firing rockets, pound railroad yards and the depot at Sinyang, blast a warehouse area 30 miles to the north and sink a small freighter, three motor launches and several sampans between Siaokan and Chienli. In other action, two B-25s and four P-40s hit troops, tanks and trucks in the Yenshih-Tengfeng-Mihsien area and in the Luchou-Hsiangcheng vicinity, and six P-40s pound supply dumps at Mienchih, while 13 more P-40s sink at least five supply boats on the Yangtze River, in the Hosueh area.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a group of over 70 B-25s, A-36s, P-51s and P-40s to attack targets in Burma. They hit the Myitkyina and Pinbaw areas, Sahmaw, targets northwest of Kamaing, gun positions at Nsopzup and targets of opportunity along the road from Inkangahtawng to Kamaing. Meanwhile, 24 P-51s attack the airfield at Meiktila, Anisakan and Heho, shooting down 13 aircraft in the area. In other action, 14 B-24s pound the Maymyo railroad station, 12 B-25s attack the railroad in the Shwebo-Sagaing area, and 12 other B-25s knock out bridges at Pyu, Thawatti, Ela and seven miles south of Ela.

On the ground in Burma, Chinese Y–Force continues crossing the Salween under cover of darkness. Three regiments of 36^th Division and the 346^th Regiment, of the 116^th Division, cross at Mengta Ferry. The K Marauder Force starts toward Ngao Ga.

Southwest Pacific Area

The 5^th Air Force dispatches over 190 B-24s and B-25s to bomb gun emplacements and supply areas on Wakde Island and the Mokmer Airfield and targets of opportunity on Biak Island, i New Guinea. Meanwhile, a group of over 220 fighter-bombers, A-20s, B-24s and B-25s continue to pound coastal bridges and villages, fuel dumps, vehicles, gun positions, supply areas, bivouacs and various targets along the shoreline from Hansa Bay to Wewak.

South Pacific Area

On New Britain Island, eight P-38s bomb a supply-personnel area west of Tobera, while 12 B-25s, 12 P-40s and three B-24s hit the Vunakanau Airfield. Meanwhile, fighters on sweeps and bombing missions hit various targets at the Kabanga Plantation, the Gazelle Peninsula area, north of the Sae River and at Labout. On Bougainville Island, a group of over 70 P-39s, P-40s, and P-38s, flying a total of 18 missions, attack a variety of targets, including the piers at Chabai, Ratsua and Porton, a wooded area near Pipipaia, the town of Siruluna, a bridge at Tokinotu, and the Buka Airfield, on Buka Island.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Engebi Island, hit Ponape Island, while others, based on Makin Island, pound Jaluit Atoll.

1,138 · May 12, 2014

Friday, May 12, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 353 – 886 bombers and 735 fighters are dispatched to hit oil production facilities in Germany and Czechoslovakia. 326 B-17s are dispatched to Mersenburg and Lutzkendorf. Germany, with some aircraft hitting Hedrongen and Bullstadt. Another 295 B-17s are sent to Brux, Czechoslovakia, and Zwickau, Germany, with some aircraft bombing Chemnitz, the Gera marshalling yard, Hof and targets of opportunity. 265 B-24s are dispatched to Zeitz and Bohlen, in Germany, with some targeting Mersenburg, Germany, the Ostend Airfield, in Belgium, and targets of opportunity. Fighter escort is provided by 153 P-38s, 201 P-47s and 381 P-51s. The fighters shoot down 61 enemy fighters and destroy five more aircraft on the ground. 43 B-17s, three B-24s, four P-47s, and three P-51s are lost, with 444 men listed as killed or missing.

During the night, the RAF sends 96 Halifaxes, 20 Lancasters, and four Mosquitos to the rail yards at Louvain, Belgium, and 100 Halifaxes, seven Lancasters, and four Mosquitos to the rail yards at Hasselt, Belgium. Meanwhile, 22 Mosquitos attempt to block the Kiel Canal by laying mines from a low level. Intelligence sources report that the flak batteries on part of the canal had been removed, allowing 20 Mosquitos to lay their mines in this stretch. As a diversion for the mine laying mission, 12 Mosquitos attack Brunsbüttel. In other action, eight Mosquitosattack Châteaudun, 10 fly radio countermeasure sorties, 12 fly Serrate patrols, nine fly Intruder patrols, and 43 other aircraft lay mines off the French coast and in the Frisians. Nine Halifaxes, three Lancasters and two Mosquitos are lost, with their crews.

8^th Air Force Mission 354 – During the night, five B-17s drop 1.74 million leaflets on Denmark, with two men listed as killed in action.

Eight RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends over 450 B-26s to attack coastal defenses, airfields, bridges, railroads and railroad guns, and V-weapon sites in France, and Belgium. Thick haze impedes visibility and causes many aborts.

The IX Troop Carrier Command carries out Operation EAGLE, a full-scale exercise of the tactics and techniques of paradrop, glider tow, parapack in resupply, air landing of supplies and medical evacuation as a dress rehearsal for the airborne invasion of Normandy.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force A-20s blast command posts along the main battlefront as Allied ground forces seek to break through the Gustav Line. Medium bombers hit a concentration near Fondi, attack forces at Vallecorsa and Pastena and bomb numerous positions along the main front, while fighter-bombers pound command posts, guns, bridges, road and rail traffic and troops along the assault front and in the rear areas, concentrating especially on the Monte Cassino Benedictine Abbey and the surrounding area.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

At dawn, the 15^th Air Force sends a force of around 730 B-17s and B-24s, the largest force to date, to attack the German headquarters at Massa d'Albe and Monte Soratte, the town of Civitavecchia, airfields at Tarquinia and in the surrounding area. Other targets include the marshalling yards at Chivasso, Piombino, Marina di Carrara, Viareggio and Ferrara, Orbetello Island, Piombino harbor, docks and communications at San Stefano al Mare, the harbor, marshalling yard and railroad bridge at Chiavari, the La Spesia marshalling yard and harbor, and several targets of opportunity. In fighter action, 25 P-38s strafe the Piacenza Airfield, while other fighters fly over 250 sorties in support of bombing missions.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army’s II Corps area, the enemy is resisting strongly and making determined counterattacks. Elements of 339^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, withstand attacks on San Martino Hill and are passed through by the 1^st Battalion, of the 337^th Infantry, which completes the capture of hill. Company F, of the 339^th Infantry, is isolated on Monte dei Pensieri during an enemy counterattack. The 338^th Infantry makes another vain effort to drive up the draw between the South Ridge and San Maria Ridge, but in the process, takes Solacciano. Stiff opposition slows progress of 351^st Infantry, of the 88^th Division, toward San Maria Infante. Company F is isolated and wiped out. The 350^th Infantry takes Ventosa village with ease and halts to await for the forward movement of the French. In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, the 4^th Moroccan Mountain Division, reinforced by a regiment of the 3^rd Algerian Division, tanks, and tank destroyers, clears Castelforte on the left and assists the 2^nd Moroccan Division on the right, which is unable to advance. The 1^st Motorized Division is committed on the right flank, as the 4^th Motorized Brigade, assisted by armor, pushes north toward San Andrea but makes little headway. The Mountain Corps, consisting of the 1^st, 3^rd, and 4^th Groups of Tabors, of the 1^st Moroccan Infantry, of the 4^th Mountain Division, and the 2^nd Battalion, of the Algerian Artillery Regiment, follows the 4^th Moroccan Mountain Division into Castelforte.

In the British Eighth Army’s XXIII Corps area, the Indian 8^th Division gains a firm bridgehead on the west bank of the Rapido River and puts two bridges across the river. But the British 4^th Division is unable to expand its small bridgehead. The Polish 2 Corps, in the Cassino area, seizes Phantom Ridge, northwest of the Monastery, but is forced back to the line of departure, where it remains for several days.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 16 P-40s and 11 B-25s to hit several targets in southern China, and in French Indochina. In China, military installations, artillery positions and tank concentrations are pounded in the Yoyang area, a bridge and several trucks are damaged at Sienning, and a naval vessel is attacked at Hong Kong. In French Indochina, a radio station on Cat Ba Island is bombed and railroad yards, supply dump, and river junks are blasted in the Phu Langi Thuong area.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends four B-25s to attack the Tiddim road, northwest of Tonzang, Burma, and a group of over 50 B-25s and fighter-bombers to knock out a railroad bridge at Pinbaw, pound gun positions and supply area at Myitkyina and hit defensive positions near Kazu-Tiangsup. Meanwhile, four B-25s damage the Myothit bridge, while eight P-38s bomb Kyaukye, 21 P-51 s hit airfields at Meiktila and Heho, shooting down eight Japanese aircraft. In other action, four more B-25s knock out a bridge at Daga, while two others bomb a camp at Taungbaw.

On the ground in Burma, K Force clashes with the enemy near Tingkrukawng and is soon pinned down by superior numbers. The Chinese 38^th Division is now able to maintain communications between its 114^th and 112^th Regiments. The Chinese 113^th Regiment is approaching West Wala and Maran.

On the Salween front, the Chinese 198^th Regiment begins clearing the Mamien Pass. The 36^th Division, of the Chinese 53^rd Army, which is to clear the Tatangtzu Pass, surrounds enemy outposts at the east end of it.

During a nighttime counterattack, the 36^th Division is forced back to the Salween.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s bomb the Mokmer Airfield, in New Guinea, and attack targets on Ceram Island, in the Moluccas Islands, Amboina, on Ambon Island, in the Moluccas Islands, and Timor Island. In New Guinea, A-20s, B-25s and fighter-bombers blast villages, coastal bridges and roads, vehicles, the airstrip at Boram, and other targets throughout the Wewak-Hansa Bay region.

On the ground in New Guinea, the Charov outpost is withdrawn in order to strengthen the base at Nyaparake.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons sends 12 B-25s and a group of over 20 P-40s and P-38s to attack the Tobera Airstrip and nearby personnel areas, on New Britain Island. Some of the B-25s returning from Tobera bomb Sohano Island, in the Solomon Islands. Meanwhile, 12 P-39s and a group of about 70 US Navy SBDs and TBFs sink numerous barges throughout the Rabaul area, especially at Simpson Harbor and Keravia Bay, and attack gun positions in the Matupi area.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 12 B-25s, based on Makin Island, to bomb Nauru Island, while a single B-24, from the Kwajalein Atoll, bombs Jaluit Atoll.

North Pacific Area

One B-24, from the 11^th Air Force, reconnoiters and bombs installations on Matsuwa Island, in the Kurile Islands, concentrating on the airfield on Tagan Cape.

1,138 · May 14, 2014

Saturday, May 13, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 355 – 289 B-17s are dispatched to hit oil targets in west Poland, but clouds force them to bomb secondary targets at Stettin and Stralsund, Germany. 199 more B-17s are sent to hit the marshalling yard at Osnabruck, and 261 B-24s are dispatched to hit aviation industry targets at Tutow, in Germany. Fighter escort is provided by 153 P-38s, 238 P-47s and 346 P-51s. The bombers and fighters shoot down 58 enemy aircraft. 11 B-17s, one B-24, one P-38, two P-47s and two P-51s are lost, with 114 men listed as killed or missing.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 300 B-26s and A-20s to bomb airfields, coastal defenses, a railway battery and V-weapon sites in France and Belgium. P-47s carry out dive-bombing raids on various targets.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium, light and fighter-bombers continue to attack lines of communications but devote the main effort to support the Allied ground forces push against the Gustav Line. A-20s hit a command post, while B-26s damage Cortona, Certaldo, Signa and Montepescali bridges, and B-25s blast towns in the rear of the battleline with good results at Pastena, Pico, Vallecorsa and Itri. Fighter-bombers carry out armed reconnaissance and scheduled attacks against communications, road and rail traffic and gun positions along the immediate battleline and in areas around Esperia, Pico, Sant' Oliva, Pignataro Interamna, Arce, Fondi, Perugia, Todi, Spoleto, Terni, Orvieto, Chiusi, Rieti and north of Rome.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

In Italy, 15^th Air Force bombers continue interdiction in support of the ground forces, sending a force of over 670 B-17s and B-24s, mostly with fighter escort, to attack marshalling yards at Trento, Bronzola, Fidenza, Piacenza, Faenza, Imola, Cesena, Modena, Parma, San Rufillo, Borgo San Lorenzo, Castel Maggiore and Bologna and to attack railroad bridges at Bolzano and Avisio. Meanwhile, fighters sweep the Bologna-Modena area.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army’s II Corps area, efforts of Company F, of the 339^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, to break through the enemy encirclement fail. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 338^th Infantry, clears Cave d’Argilla and Hill 60, in the region north of San Martino Hill, while the 1^st Battalion pushes from Solacciano toward Hill 126, on South Ridge. The 351^st Infantry, of the 88^th Division, continues toward San Maria Infante. Renewing the attack on the right flank of II Corps, the 350^th Infantry, of the 1^st Battalion seizes Monte Rotondo. The French Expeditionary Force (FEC) smashes through the Gustav Line in a spectacular push. The 2^nd Moroccan Division overruns Monte Girofano, Monte Feuci, and Monte Maio in center of II Corps zone. Exploiting this success, the 1^st Motorized Division speeds forward on the right flank to San Apollinare, while the 4^th Moroccan Mountain Division, on the left flank, clears the opposition around Monte Ceschito, north of the road to Coreno, in a skillful enveloping attack. Over 1,000 prisoners are taken. The Mountain Corps, upon moving forward from Castelforte to positions north of Monte Rotondo, halts until the opposition can be cleared from Ceschito.

In the British Eighth Army area, XXIII Corps expands the Rapido bridgehead. A bridge is completed in the 4^th Division sector.

During the night, German forces in the US Fifth Army area, after offering stiff resistance throughout day, begin a withdrawal to the next delaying position. The Mountain Corps is organized into three groups. One group pushes northward toward Ausonia and the other two drive west toward Spigno.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 19 B-25s to attack storage and warehouse areas at Mangshik and Lungling, a bridge at Hsenwi, truck and tank concentrations southwest of Loyang, and the town area of Lungling, all in China. Meanwhile, 39 P-40s hit military installations at Mengta and Tating, a village north of Kaitou, a bridge at Tingka and a truck concentration at Yingyangchen.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends a force of nearly 100 P-40s and P-51s over the Mogaung Valley, in Burma, to attack gun positions, bridges, support ground forces near Nanyaseik, and hit numerous targets of opportunity throughout the valley. Meanwhile, 12 A-36s hit positions near Maungdaw, 19 B-25s pound several points along the road and bomb troop concentrations at Bishenpur, and a group of over 30 B-24s, B-25s, A-36s, and P-51s hit Indaw, Taungbaw and Mohnyin, while 11 B-25s bomb Monywa.

On the ground in Burma, when frontal and flanking attacks on Tingkrukawng by K Force fail, the village is bypassed. On the Salween front, the Japanese almost wipe out a Chinese battalion in the Mamien Pass, but the situation is restored after reinforcements arrive. Japanese resistance in this region ends. A regiment of the 53^rd Army crosses the Salween River and attacks the Japanese flank, regaining positions in Tatangtzu Pass.

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, 5^th Air Force B-24s hit dispersal areas on Jaspen Island, supply areas and anti-aircraft guns at Bosnik and airfields at Sorido, Namber and near the Moemi River. Elsewhere, B-24s and B-25s hit airfields in the Wakde-Maffin-Sawar-Arare area, and a force of over 200 fighter-bombers, A-20s, and B-25s thoroughly pound airfields, bridges, fuel dumps, vehicles, villages, anti-aircraft guns, and supply areas in the Wewak-Hansa Bay area.

On the ground in New Ginea, General Gill decides to abandon the Marubian area.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons dispatches aircraft to attack targets on Bougainville Island, New Britain Island, and New Ireland Island. On Bougainville Island, a group of over 50 P-39s and P-40s attack piers at Ratsua, Porton, Chabai, and Tarlena, while over 30 other fighter-bombers hit various targets, including a supply area southeast of Bonis, the town of Chabai, a village near Ibu, and huts and villages along the Numa Numa trail, and three B-25s hit coastal guns at the Hahela Mission. On New Britain Island, 21 B-25s and a group of over 40 P-39s, P-40s, and P-38s pound supply areas at Talili Bay. Fighter sweeps over northern New Britain Island and New Ireland Island continue, with many targets of opportunity being strafed.

The 13^th Air Force moves the 307^th Bomb Group (Heavy), flying B-24s, from New Georgia Island, and Guadalcanal Island, to Los Negros Island.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, staging through Eniwetok Atoll, from Kwajalein Atoll, bomb Truk Atoll during the early morning hours. Other B-24s, from Kwajalein, bomb Maloelap and Jaluit atolls, in the Marshall Islands. Elsewhere, B-25s, from Engebi Island, hit Ponape Island.

North Pacific Area

One B-25, from the 11^th Air Force, flies a shipping strike and strafes two fishing vessels.

1,138 · May 14, 2014

Sunday, May 14, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

During the night, 41 RAF Mosquitos attack Cologne, Courtrai, Châteaudun, and Leverkusen. Meanwhile, one other Mosquito flies a radio countermeasure sortie, 10 Halifaxes and two Stirlings lay mines off Channel and Biscay ports,

10 RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties.

The 435^th Fighter Squadron, with P-38s, arrives in England, from the US, and joins the 8^th Air Force.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, support for the Allied ground assault into the Gustav Line continues as aircraft, from the 12^th Air Force, hit at lines of communications north and northwest of Rome and blast targets in the immediate battle area. Meanwhile, medium bombers claim hits on bridges, bridge approaches, and viaducts at Chiani, Marsciano, Monte Molino, Castiglione d'Orcia, San Giovanni Valdarno, Poggibonsi, Tabianello and Arezzo. In other action, A-20s pound command posts in the battle area, fighter-bombers hit railroad stations, tracks, roads, town areas, bridges, gun positions and targets of opportunity in the immediate battle area and in or near Esperia, Terni, Narni, Itri, Terracina, Perugia, Chiusi, Orvieto, San Giovanni Valdarno, Maranola and other locations north of Rome.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force sends over 700 bombers to attack targets in Italy. B-17s hit marshalling yards at Ferrara and Mantua and an air depot at Piacenza, while B-24s hit the Vicenza marshalling yard and air depots at Piacenza and Reggio Emilia. Fighters fly over 170 sorties in escort, as 48 P-38s strafe Aviano and Villaorba airfields.

The 52^nd Fighter Group, and its 4^th and 5^th Fighter Squadrons, flying P-51s, move from Corsica, to Italy.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army area, II Corps makes progress all along the line against rearguard opposition. The 338^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, clears Hill 131, of South Ridge, previously an enemy strongpoint, and outposts along the Formia–Ausonia road. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 337^th Infantry, then continues toward next 85^th Division objective, Castellonorato, reaching Hill 108, north of the Spigno–San Maria Infante road junction, and patrolling beyond there. The 351^st Infantry, of the 88^th Division, seizes its initial objectives of Hill 126, at the east end of South Ridge, and San Maria Infante village. The 88^th Division, with elements of three regiments, in an assault, begins a drive on Spigno. The 350^th Infantry advances west across Ausente Creek to the north slopes of Monte dei Bracchi, while the 349^th Infantry occupies Monte dei Bracchi and, in conjunction with 351^st Infantry, clears Monte la Civita. In the Mountain Corps area, two groups advance west to positions just east of the Ausonia road, where they are stopped by enemy forces, but the third group reaches the base of Fammera escarpment. On the French Expeditionary Force’s (FEC) west left flank, the 4^th Mountain Division and the 3^rd Algerian Division mop up the region west of Monte Majo. In the center, the 2^nd Moroccan Division, thrusting toward San Giorgio, reaches Castellone and Cantalupo Hills, with some elements pushing toward Castelnuovo. On right flank, the 1^st Motorized Division, advancing along the Liri River, reaches San Giorgio.

In the British Eighth Army area, XXIII Corps continues to expand and strengthen the Rapido bridgehead. Preparations are made for the next phase of the attack, to isolate Cassino, in conjunction with the Polish 2 Corps, on May 15^th. However, the delay of the 78^th Division in crossing the Rapido forces a postponement of the assault.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, a group of 60 P-40s and P-51s, from the 14^th Air Force, hit trucks at Yoyang, river shipping, boxcars, and trucks at Pailochi and Sienning and a storage area at Shayang. Meanwhile, 20 other P-40s bomb and strafe towns near Mamien Pass, Pingkai and areas around Mengta and Tating.

Six Japanese bombers hit Kienow, rendering the airfield temporarily unusable.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 12 P-38s hit Tiddim road at Tonzang, causing a roadblock, while 11 P-40s hit a bridge and road at Kazu and railroad shed at Myitkyina, and a group of 25 B-25s and P-51s hit troop positions at Hopin. The Meiktila and Heho airfields are hit by a group of over 20 P-51s and P-38s, with the fighters shooting down four aircraft in combat.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s bomb Bosnik supply areas and Sorido runway, in New Guinea. In the Wakde-Sawar-Maffin Bay area, villages and anti-aircraft positions are pounded by B-24s and B-25s. Fighter-bombers, A-20s, B-24s and B-25s maintain strikes against airfields, bridges, trucks, villages, and other targets in the Wewak-Hansa Bay area.

On the ground in New Guinea, Company C, of the 127^th Infantry, withdrawing from Marubian, finds its route cut by the enemy. The Japanese also harass Company A, at the Ulau Mission. Since these positions are becoming untenable, it is decided to withdraw.

South Pacific Area

23 B-25s bomb Tobera Airstrip, on New Britain Island, while 44 fighter-bombers pound supply and personnel areas at Vunakanau. Meanwhile, P-39s and P-40s strafe targets in northern and eastern Gazelle Peninsula, and fighter patrols over the Rabaul area attack several targets of opportunity. In the Buka-Bougainville Island area, a group of over 40 P-39s and P-40s bomb Hangan, Tsirogei, Tokiparo, a pier at the Kessa Plantation, and near Ibu.

Central Pacific Area

53 B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, and 43 B-25s, from Makin Island, join US Navy aircraft in pounding Jaluit Atoll.

1,138 · May 15, 2014

Monday, May 15, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 356 – 166 bombers hit V-weapon sites in France. 58 B-17s bomb Marquise/Mimoyecques, while 108 B-24s bomb Siracourt. Fighter escort is provided by 104 P-51s with one fighter lost, and the pilot listed as missing.

8^th Air Force Mission 357 – During the night, three B-17s drop over one million leaflets on 10 towns in Belgium, and France. One B-17 crash lands on returning to its base, killing one airman.

During the night, five B-24s are dispatched on CARPETBAGGER operations.

The 8^th Air Force adds the 479^th Fighter Group, with P-38s, which arrives in England, from the US.

During the night, 43 RAF Mosquitos attack Ludwigshafen, the Carpiquet Airfield near Caen and Leverkusen. Meanwhile, one flies a radio countermeasure sortie, and two others fly Serrate patrols. In other activity, 43 other aircraft lay mines from Kiel to Biscay, and six aircraft fly resistance operations. Three Lancasters from the minelaying mission are lost, with their crews.

24 RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties, losing one Wellington and crew.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends a group of 45 A-20s and B-26s to bomb airfields at Creil and Evreux/Fauville, in France, and the Somain marshalling yard. Over 300 others are forced to abandon their missions because of thick clouds.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

12^th Air Force medium and light bombers again hit communications lines north and northwest of the front while fighter-bombers, in close support of the Allied ground assault through the Gustav Line, blast gun positions, motor transport, ammunition supplies, bridges, rolling stock and other military targets in the battle area. Elsewhere, medium and light bombers also hit harbors and vessels along coasts at Piombino, Talamone, Portoferraio and Ancona.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

Because of bad weather, the 15^th Air Force cancels all operations except fighter a sweep over the Toulon-Marseille area, of France.

Italy Campaign

In the US Fifth Army’s II Corps area, the 337^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, overruns Castellonorato. To the left, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 338^th Infantry, reaches the junction of Highway 7 and the Ausonia Road. The 88^th Division, thrusting to Spigno, finds the town undefended and in ruins. They are ordered to push on to Itri at once. On the left flank, in the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) sector, one group of the Mountain Corps pushes steadily west along difficult mountain trails toward Monte Revole. Another group continues northward, scaling the Fammera escarpment. Meanwhile, the 6^th Moroccan Infantry is relieved of its containing role at Ausonia and joins the main body. The enemy is driven from Ausonia by noon, but retains La Bastia Hill to the north, in an effort to keep control of the Esperia Road. The 3^rd Algerian Division relieves the holding force at Ausonia, while armored elements push on to Castelnuovo, which the 2^nd Moroccan Division has cleared earlier in day, thereby gaining control of the Ausonia Defile. On the right flank of the FEC, German fire prevents the forward movement of the 1^st Motorized Division from San Giorgio.

In the British Eighth Army area, XIII Corps continues working through the Gustav Line, with the British 78^th Division moving forward between the British 4^th Division and the Indian 8^th Division, in preparation for a concerted assault, with the Poles, on Cassino. Meanwhile, the Canadian I Corps begins passing through XIII Corps and relieving the Indian 8^th Division.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

14^th Air Force B-25s strike the Kengluang bridge, in Siam, and hit installations near Wan Pa-Hsa, Burma. Meanwhile, P-40s strafe troops near Pingkai, Burma, and along the Mamien Pass and in the Mengta area, of China.

The 14^th Air Force moves the 92^nd Fighter Squadron, flying P-47s, from India, to China.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 19 B-25s to pound targets of opportunity along the Tiddim Road, in Burma. Meanwhile, over 20 B-25s and fighter-bombers hit gun positions at Hopin and the airfield at Myitkyina, while 17 P-38s attack Heho and the Kangaung Airfield, destroying 15 aircraft, most of them in the air. Elsewhere, seven B-24s bomb Myitkyina, Kalewa and Mandalay.

In Burma, H Force reaches the upper Namkwi River, about 15 miles from Myitkyina.

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, the Wewak- Hansa Bay area is again hit by A-20s, B-24s and fighter-bombers, from the 5^th Air Force. Meanwhile, B-24s and B-25s attack numerous targets in the Wakde-Sawar-Sarmi-Maffin Bay areas and on Biak Island. In other action, Thirteenth Air Task Force B-24s, from Los Negros Island, bomb supply and bivouac areas on Mariaon and Tagaulap islands, and anti-aircraft guns on Woleai and Paliau islands, all in the Woleai Atoll.

On the ground in New Guinea, the US outposts at Ulau and Marubian are withdrawn by sea to Nyaparake.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons dispatches 24 B-25s and a group of over 40 P-40s, P-38s, and P-39s, along with US Navy TBFs and SBDs to Bougainville Island. They pound the area north of Muguai and hit the Maika area between Muguai and Ebery's Lease. Meanwhile, over 40 fighters, on sweeps over Bougainville and Shortland islands, attack anti-aircraft positions, trucks and huts at several locations including the Kieta, Cape Friendship and Chabai areas. On New Britain Island, Allied fighter sweeps continue over the Rabaul area, hitting several targets of opportunity, including a concentration of barges in Keravia Bay.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force operations are limited to photo reconnaissance of Jaluit Atoll, from Kwajalein Atoll.

1,138 · May 16, 2014

Tuesday, May 16, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

During the night, 29 RAF Mosquitos attack Berlin.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack railroad bridges and a tunnel in central Italy, while light bombers blast gun positions in Roccasecca, and fighter-bombers and fighters, just behind enemy lines, seek out motor transport targets, crater roads and hit bridges, harassing the already strained communications network.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force moves the 2^nd Fighter Squadron, with P-51s, from Corsica to Italy.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army area, II Corps rapidly pursues the enemy. In the 85^th Division sector, the 339^th Infantry, after clearing Scauri and Monte Scauri, is pinched out by the 338^th Infantry, which drives along the Ausonia Road to Highway 7 and on to Acquatraversa Creek. The 337^th Infantry, pushing west from Castellonorato, meets enemy opposition from Monte Campese and halts in the valley below it. Meanwhile, the 349^th Infantry, of the 88^th Division, advances in conjunction with the 337^th Infantry. Continuing toward Itri, the 351^st Infantry reaches Monte Ruazzo and Monte Mesola. In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, one column of Mountain Corps completes a difficult trek, almost unopposed, to Monte Revole, while another reaches positions south of Esperia. Elements of 3^rd Algerian Division secure the junction of the San Giorgio and Esperia roads and hold it against a counterattack. On the right flank, the 1^st Motorized Division silences fire on San Giorgio and drives west, pinching out the 2^nd Moroccan Division.

In the British Eighth Army area, the Canadian I Corps takes over the sector to the left of XIII Corps and relieves the Indian 8^th Division. In the XIII Corps area, the 78^th Division, assuming the burden of the assault, pushes northwest through the last defenses of the Gustav Line in an effort to isolate Cassino, in conjunction with the Poles. Polish 2 Corps, which has been reorganizing after its initial defeat, is ordered to renew its offensive on May 17^th.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends eight B-24s to bomb the motor pool and warehouse areas at Mangshih.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, about 70 B-25s and fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, hit the Myitkyina and Hogin areas. 11 more B-24s hit the Ywataung and Sagaing marshalling yards and the town of Akyab.

On the ground in Burma, H Force crosses the Namkwi River after confining the inhabitants of Namkwi village in order to assure secrecy. On Salween front, the 593^rd Regiment, of the Chinese 190^th Division, reaches the Shweli Valley, near Laokai, having moved west over the mountains. The rest of the 190^th Division is clearing strongpoints in Mamien Pass. On the southern flank, where the enemy has thinned out in order to strengthen the upper Shweli Valley, elements of Chinese 76^th and 88^th Divisions are progressing rapidly toward Pingka and have taken 13 villages northeast of that objective.

In the British Fourteenth Army area, Kachin guerrillas gain temporary possession of Washang, about 30 miles east of Myitkyina.

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, 5^th Air Force aircraft continue to pound a variety of targets including airfields and supply areas on Noemfoor and Biak Islands, anti-aircraft guns, supplies and occupied villages in the Wakde Island-Maffin-Sawar coastal area, and bridges, villages, troop concentrations and anti-aircraft positions.

On the ground in New Guinea, Task Force TORNADO, the Wakde assault force, begins the voyage to the target from the Hollandia area.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons dispatches over 40 fighter-bombers to attack the Vunakanau area, on New Britain Island. Fighters, on sweeps, hit barges at Jacquinot Bay and Mioko Harbour, vehicles at Kurakakaul, Mandres Bay and Vunarima, and north of Vunakanau, a small vessel in Mandres Bay and a sawmill at Keravat. On Bougainville Island, fighter-bombers hit occupied areas at Tunuru, near Kieta and Manetai Mission, and at Tinputs.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, based at Kwajalein Atoll, pound Wake Island. Elsewhere, B-25s, from Makin Island, hit Nauru and Ponape Islands.

1,138 · May 17, 2014

Wednesday, May 17, 1944

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force operations continue in support of the Allied ground assault. B-26s bomb road bridges in the immediate battle area, with generally fair results, and roads are blocked in Frosinone. Meanwhile, B-25s bomb the landing ground at Viterbo, while A-20s bomb a command post near Valmontone and drop supplies to French troops on Monte Revole. Fighter-bombers hit railroads, bridges, trucks, and gun positions behind and along the battle front, with good results, destroying or severely damaging six bridges, creating road blocks in the towns of Vallecorsa and Pico, blasting gun emplacements at Cassino and hitting numerous targets of opportunity.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force sends over 450 bombers to hit targets in Italy, and Yugoslavia. The B-17s bomb the marshalling yard at Ancona, Italy, and troop concentrations at Bihac, Yugoslavia. The B-24s bomb the port areas at San Stefano al Mare, Piombino, Portoferraio and Orbetello, in Italy. Meanwhile, P-38s strafe airfields at Ghedi, Villafranca di Verona, Modena, Forli and Reggio Emilia, in Italy, while other fighters fly over 130 sorties of escort duty.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army’s II Corps area, the 85^th Division continues the pursuit of the enemy through the Formia corridor, with the 338^th Infantry entering Formia where the enemy is still resisting, and the 337^th Infantry, after a strong artillery concentration on Monte Campese, drives to Maranola. Meanwhile, the 351^st Infantry, of the 88^th Division, with the 3^rd Battalion in the lead, attempts to take Monte Grande, west of the Itri–Pico road, but is halted by heavy fire and tanks. The 350^th Infantry, moving forward in two convoys to Trivio, advances on foot through Maranola to positions south of the 351^st Infantry. In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, one column of Mountain Corps is clearing the region west and northwest of Monte Revole as far as the Itri–Pico road, and a second reaches positions south of Monte del Lago. The 3^rd Algerian Division enters Esperia, which is undefended, but meets strong opposition while continuing pursuit toward San Oliva. Elements of the 3^rd Algerian Division, begin an ascent of Monte Oro, a key position overlooking the Hitler Line. The 1^st Motorized Division, continuing northwest along the south bank of the Liri River, is halted by fire from Monte Oro and extensive mine fields.

The British Eighth Army begins a general offensive. The Canadian I Corps drives west on the left flank of the army toward the Hitler Line. XIII Corps and the Polish 2 Corps, in concerted attacks to isolate Cassino, make substantial progress, but the Germans are keeping an escape route open and begin withdrawing their Cassino garrison through it. XIII Corps cuts Highway 6, while the Polish 2 Corps recovers the Phantom Ridge and captures Colle San Angelo.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

14^th Air Force P-40s support ground forces at Mamien Pass, in China. They hit Japanese positions at Tatangtzu, damage a bridge and several trucks at Shweli, Burma, strafe troops at Luchiangpa and bomb and strafe a horse pack train near Tengchung. Meanwhile, seven B-25s and 13 P-40s pound the Shayang barracks area and hit troops and vehicles northeast of Shasi.

On the Yunnan front, a Chinese force, securing the Huei-jen Bridge area, gets forward elements to Hongmoshu village, well behind the Japanese and only 24 air miles from Teng-chung, but the Japanese later recover the village.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 18 B-25s to bomb the Chauk oil installations, in Burma, while 20 P-38s hit the Kangaung Airfield. In other action, B-25s and fighter-bombers fly 90 sorties against Mogaung Valley targets, hitting targets of opportunity at Kazu and Namti, and a bridge at Kamaing, and supporting ground forces in the Myitkyina area.

In a surprise attack, H Marauder Force seizes the Myitkyina airstrip. While the strip is being taken by the 150^th Regiment, of the Chinese 50^th Division, the 1^st Marauder Battalion seizes Pamati, the site of the Irrawaddy ferry. In response to a request for reinforcements, in order to begin assault on Myitkyina itself, elements of Chinese 89^th Regiment are flown in from Ledo. M Force and K Force are moving toward Myitkyina to assist H Force.

The Indian 3^rd Division is transferred from control of the British Fourteenth Army to General Stilwell’s command, but the 23^rd Brigade remains attached to British forces. The 16^th Brigade has been flown out for rehabilitation.

A squadron of American Dakotas, C-47s, is diverted from Troop Carrier Command to the 14^th Air Force to supply Yunnan Force. Bombers of the Strategic Air Force are used to temporarily replace the Dakotas.

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, 5^th Air Force B-24s and B-25s hit targets in the general vicinity at Sawar, Sarmi and the mouth of the Orai River, while over 100 B-24s, with P-38 escort, pound anti-aircraft positions at Bosnik, Sorido and Mokmer, and supply areas and airfield on Noemfoor Island, and a force of over 120 fighter-bombers, A-20s, B-25s and B-24s continue to hit the Wewak-Hansa Bay area.

On the ground in New Guinea, Task Force TORNADO begins the preliminary phase of Wakde Island operation. After preparatory naval bombardment, the 163^rd Infantry lands without opposition near Arare, on the Dutch New Guinea mainland, opposite Wakde Island. They extend their flanks west to the Tor River and east to Tementoe Creek. Artillery is landed and registered on Wakde Island. Company E and a Provisional Groupment of shore-based artillery land on Insoemanai Island, and find it free of Japanese.

In the Dutch East Indies, carrier-based planes of the British Eastern Fleet attack the Soerabaja naval base, in Java. During the night, 5^th Air Force B-24s follow up the naval base attack, in Java, with an attack on the docks.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons sends 25 B-25s to bomb the airfield at Tobera, while a group of 43 P-39s, P-40s and P-38s, in conjunction with over 40 US Navy dive bombers, blast the Vunakanau area, on New Britain Island. Meanwhile, fighters on sweeps hit a Nubai River bridge and strafe targets on Gazelle Peninsula. Elsewhere, 39 fighter-bombers hit numerous targets in the Bougainville Island area, including the Muguai area, a bridge north of Numa Numa, barges at Banin Harbor and the area around Ratsua.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, bomb Wake Island, while B-25s, based on Engebi Island, hit Ponape Island.

1,138 · May 18, 2014

Thursday, May 18, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

During the night, 17 RAF Mosquitos fly Oboe calibration tests to targets in France. Four aircraft bomb Mondeville and two bombed Orly. The others did not bomb. Meanwhile, seven Mosquitos fly radio countermeasures.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers continue to hit rail bridges, bombing farther into northern Italy, and thus putting more pressure on the strained German communications system. Light bombers hit storage areas, and fighter-bombers continue close support to Allied ground forces, hitting town areas, roads, enemy positions, railroads and numerous other targets in the battle area, including points in or around Pico, Pontecorvo. Fondi, Terracina, Ceccano, Pastena, San Giovanni Valdarno, Perugia, Terni, Spoleto, Sant' Elpidio a Mare, Pedaso and north of Rome.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force sends almost 450 bombers, mostly with fighter escort, to hit targets in Rumania and Yugoslavia. both B-17s and B-24s bomb the industrial area at Ploesti, Rumania, and the marshalling yard at Belgrade, Yugoslavia. The B-17s also hit the marshalling yard at Nis, Yugoslavia. Over 300 other bombers abandon the missions because of bad weather. In other action, fighters strafe airfields at Nis and Scutari, Yugoslavia.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army area, the 36^th Division begins moving to the Anzio beachhead. In the II Corps area, the 338^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, mops up Formia and pushes north to Monte di Mola and west to Monte Conca, against rear-guard resistance. Meanwhile the 337^th Infantry, swinging southwest, reaches Highway 7, between Formia and Itri and thereby protects the flank of the 338^th. In the 88^th Division sector, the 351^st Infantry remains in place under intense fire that abates with the arrival of supporting artillery. The 349^th Infantry reverts to the control of the 88^th Division. The French Expeditionary Force (FEC) meets strong resistance as it attacks toward Pico. While one Mountain Corps column continues to clear the left flank, another reaches the heights commanding San Oliva. The 3^rd Algerian Division reduces the opposition on the Monte Oro feature, in conjunction with the 1st Motorized Division to the right and drives the enemy from Monticello and San Oliva. The 1^st Motorized Division continues along the south bank of the Liri River to Forma Quesa Creek.

The British Eighth Army completes the reduction of the Gustav Line in the Liri Valley with the capture of Cassino. The Canadian I Corps continues toward the Hitler Line at Pontecorvo. In the XIII Corps area, Cassino, now in ruins, falls to the 4^th Division. A detachment of the 78^th Division thrusts to the outskirts of Aquino, a key position in Hitler Line. In the Polish 2 Corps area, the 3^rd Carpathian Division takes the Cassino Monastery.

During the night, the 339^th Infantry, of the US 85^th Division, moves forward along Highway 7, In the US Fifth Army area.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, six B-25s and 12 P-40s pound barracks and warehouse areas at Chienyangi, causing many fires, 30 P-40s support ground forces in the Salween area, hitting troops and positions at Tengchung, Tatangtzu, Mamien Pass and Luchiangpa. Meanwhile, 12 B-24s bomb the towns of Lungling and Tengchung, and a group of 25 P-40s, from the Chinese-American Composite Wing (CACW) and the Chinese Air Force (CAF), attack trucks, armor and troops at Chueh-shan and Loning, causing widespread destruction.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends over 140 fighter-bombers and six B-25s to attack numerous targets throughout the Mogaung Valley, in Burma. They concentrate on bridges, knocking out at least four, and support of ground forces in the areas around Myitkyina, Nanyaseik, Kamaing, Namkwin, Kazu, Lonkin and Katkyo. Meanwhile, eight B-25s knock out a Mu River bridge and damage Chaungu bridge approaches, and 12 P-38s destroy several aircraft at Shwebo.

On the ground, Marauders begin an assault on the town of Myitkyina, while elements of the 89^th Regiment, of the Chinese 30^th Division, defend the Myitkyina Airfield. The 1^st Battalion overruns Zigyun, south of Myitkyina. Meanwhile, the 150^th Regiment, of the Chinese 50^th Division, attacks from the north, seizing the railroad station.

Southwest Pacific Area

Throughout the day, the 5^th Air Force sends a force of over 100 fighter-bombers, A-20s, B-25s and B-24s to attack targets of opportunity in the Wewak- Hansa Bay area, of New Guinea. Elsewhere, B-24s hit targets of opportunity on Halmahera Island, in the Moluccas Islands, and bomb Bosnik. B-25s hit Larot, in the Celebes Islands, and Saumlakki,on Tanimbar Island, in the Moluccas Islands.

In the Admiralty Islands, the campaign is officially terminated by the Commanding General of the Sixth Army. Air and naval bases have been developed. Japanese casualties during the operation total 3,280 killed and 75 captured. US casualties are 326 killed, 1,189 wounded, and four missing.

In New Guinea, after preparatory bombardment, the 163^rd Infantry lands three companies of the 1^st Battalion, and Company F, of the 2^nd Battalion on the southern coast of Insoemoar Island, the main island of the Wakde group and in site of the Wakde airfield. Despite opposition from mutually supporting pillboxes and bunkers, the clear most of airfield and island. On the mainland, the 3^rd Battalion, of the 163^rd Infantry, begins a westward advance across Tor River, establishing a small bridgehead. The enemy retains the northeast end of the island and, during the night, counterattacks unsuccessfully.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons sends 10 P-39s to hit barges off Porton, and a group of over 40 P-38s and P-39s to attack a supply area north of Mupuai, on Bougainville Island.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, based on Makin Island, bomb Taroa Island, in the Maloelap Atoll, rearm at Majuro Atoll and attack the same target during the return flight.

North Pacific Area

Over the Kurile Islands, an 11^th Air Force B-24, on weather reconnaissance, attacks a Japanese aircraft and two B-25s sink an auxiliary vessel. Shortly before 2400 hours, another vessel is sunk by two other B-25s.

1,138 · May 18, 2014

Friday, May 19, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 358 – 888 bombers and 700 fighters are dispatched to hit targets in Germany. Very heavy cloud cover forces the bombers to use H2X PFF methods. 588 B-17s are dispatched to Berlin, with 49 of those hitting the port area at Kiel, and 300 B-24s are sent to the industrial area at Brunswick. The 8^th and 9^th Air Force provides fighter escort of 155 P-38s, 182 P-47s and 363 P-51s. the fighters shoot down 77 Luftwaffe aircraft. 16 B-17s, 12 B-24s, four P-38s, four P-47s and 11 P-51 s are lost, with 277 men listed as killed or missing.

During the night, the RAF dispatches aircraft to targets in France:

· 106 Halifaxes, 32 Lancasters, and five Mosquitos to attack the railway yards at Boulogne. Only one of the Oboe Mosquitos is able to mark the target but the bombing is still accurate. The local report says that the main station is badly damaged, and 33 civilians are killed.

· 118 Lancasters and four Mosquitos carry out a particularly accurate attack on the railway yards at Orleans.

· 112 Lancasters and nine Mosquitos find that their railway target at Amiens is cloud-covered and the Master Bomber orders the attack to stop after 37 Lancasters had bombed.

· 113 Lancasters and four Mosquitos attempt the difficult task of attacking the railway installations in the center of Tours. A previous raid had destroyed the yards on the outskirts of the town. Both the marking and the bombing force are ordered to carry out their tasks with particular care and to be prepared to wait until the Master Bomber is satisfied that the surrounding housing areas are not hit. The raid continued until well after the planned period but no fighters appeared and no aircraft are lost. Much damage is caused to the railways but some bombs did fall to the west of the target.

· 112 Lancasters and four Mosquitos attack Le Mans. The majority of the bombs hit the railway yards and cause serious damage. The local report says that the locomotive sheds are destroyed, an ammunition train, or some ammunition wagons, blew up, two main lines are destroyed and all other lines blocked because overhead power lines are brought down across the tracks.

· 58 Halifaxes and six Pathfinder Mosquitos attack a coastal gun position at Le Clipon but there is haze and the results are not known.

· 42 Halifaxes, 15 Lancasters, and six Mosquitos bomb a gun position at Merville, near Dunkirk. Some bombs fall in the battery position despite the presence of haze.

· 39 Lancasters and five Mosquitos attack a radar station at Mont Couple. The Mosquitos are not able to use their Oboe equipment but 31 Lancasters use their H2S sets to make a timed run from the coast and bomb the approximate position of the target.

In other action, 29 Mosquitos attack Cologne, 10 more fly radio countermeasure sorties, eight others fly Serrate patrols, while 23 fly Intruder patrols, and 24 Halifaxes and four Stirlings lay mines off the French coast. For the night, five Lancaster and their crews are lost.

12 RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties, losing one Wellington and crew.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of about 290 B-26s and A-20s to bomb coastal defenses, port areas, a railway battery, and NOBALL (V-weapon) targets, in France. Over 125 others fail to bomb because of an extremely thick haze, but about 300 P-47s are able to dive-bomb targets.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

12^th Air Force medium bombers hit railroad bridges in north-central Italy, while light bombers bomb an ammunition dump, and fighter-bombers continue to support Allied forces advancing rapidly north and west, blasting the road network in the battle area and hitting motor transport, bridges, town areas, and targets of opportunity, in areas around San Giovanni Valdarno, Pastena, Vallecorsa, Terracina, Fondi, Pistoia and elsewhere.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force sends over 500 bombers to hit communications targets, ports, and oil storage in northeastern, central, and western Italy. B-17s hit oil storage facilities at Porto Marghera and railroad bridges at Casarea, Latisana and Rimini, while B-24s hit port areas at La Spezia and Leghorn. Meanwhile, fighters fly over 250 sorties in support. These operations are notable for the absence of enemy fighter opposition.

Italy Campaign

The US Fifth Army orders the 509^th Parachute Infantry Battalion to be dropped in the Galla di Monte Orso area, north of Monte Romano, to speed the advance of II Corps. In the II Corps area, the 338^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, finds Gaeta abandoned by the enemy. Elements of the 339^th Infantry move toward Itri to assist the 88^th Division, while others clear hills south of Highway 7. The 351^st Infantry, of the 88^th Division, captures Monte Grande with ease, while a patrol clears stragglers from Itri, where the 349^th Infantry soon arrives. The 350^th Infantry takes up positions east of Itri. The Germans order the withdrawal of troops south of the Liri River and east of Pico, to a line from Pico to Pontecorvo. In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, a Mountain Corps column takes Campodimele and cuts Highway 82, near Monte Vele.

In the British Eighth Army area, Canadian I Corps and British XIII Corps attempt unsuccessfully to breach the Hitler Line before its defenses can be organized. I Corps attacks in the Pontecorvo area and XIII Corps attacks at Aquino.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 31 fighters to support ground forces in China, attacking the Salween area at Chiangtso, Watien, and Mamien Pass. Four P-40s knock out a bridge at Shweli, Burma, 13 P-40s bomb and strafe the Puchi area and a group of 16 P-40s and P-38s damage a bridge at Tayeh and hit military installations and other buildings at Yangsin. In other action, 11 P-51 s bomb a village near Anking, causing large explosions and fires, two B-24s, on a sea sweep seriously damage two freighters south of Hong Kong. 16 Chinese-American Composite Wing (CACW) P-40s pound trucks, tanks and troops in the Ichang-Tangyang-Loyang area and attack river traffic at Itu, on the Yangtze River.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 10^th Air Force A-36s, P-40s, P-51s and a few B-25s fly over 140 attack sorties against various targets in the Mogaung Valley, concentrating on gun positions in the Myitkyina area. Meanwhile, eight B-25s damage railroad tracks in the Myingatha-Saye area and 16 P-38s hit the airfield at Nawnghkio.

At Myitkyina, the 1^st Battalion of Marauders turns over the Pamati ferry to the Chinese and takes up position on the Namkwi River, south of the town. K Force, approaching from the north, takes Charpate without difficulty. M Force reaches Namkwi. The Japanese garrison of Myitkyina is thus partially encircled. The Chinese 22^nd Division commits the 65^th Regiment to the front line. The Chinese 38^th Division, upon receiving permission from Chiang Kaishek to push toward Kamaing, decides to send the 112^th Regiment around the east flank of the enemy to block the Kamaing Road, south of Seton, and move the 114^th down Kumon Range toward Mogaung.

The British Fourteenth Army commander recommends that General Stilwell be given command of all operations to open a land route to China.

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, 5^th Air Force B-24s, A-20s and P-38s hit airfields and shipping in the Manokwari area of Noemfoor Island. Other B-24s pound beach defenses at Bosnik, on Biak Island, and hit the area between Bosnik and Mokmer. Meanwhile, a force of over 270 A-20s, P-47s, P-38s and B-25s continue to blast Wewak, knocking out radar and radio stations and attack targets of opportunity from Wewak to the Hansa Bay area.

Organized resistance on Insoemoar Island rapidly disintegrates, and Japanese remnants are compressed into a small pocket at the northeaster tip. Engineers begin to repair the airdrome. The Provisional Groupment on Isoemanai is disbanded, its components return to the mainland or to Wakde Island. Companies E and I land on Liki and Niroemoar islands and find them undefended. In the Aitape sector, the 32^nd Reconnissiance Troop replaces Companies C and D, of the 127^th Infantry, at Nyaparake.

The 5^th Air Force establishes radar detachments on the islands.

Brigadier General Clarence Martin, the 32^nd Division assistand dvision commander, takes command of the East Sector, replacing Colonel Howe.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons sends a group of over 40 P-39s, P-38s and P-40s to attack Makada Island, in the Bismarck Archipelago. 16 B-25s bomb gun positions and a supply area at Talili Bay, on New Britain Island. On Bougainville Island, 20 fighters and a few US Navy aircraft bomb huts and bridges at Monoitu, Porton, Toborei, Moisuru and Tsimba.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, based on Engebi Island, hit Ponape Island, and B-25s, from Makin Island, hit Nanru Island.

North Pacific Area

An 11^th Air Force B-24 flies armed reconnaissance over Shimushu and Ketoi Islands, in the Kurile Islands.

1,138 · May 20, 2014

Saturday, 20 May, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 359 – 638 bombers are dispatched in three formations to hit targets in France and Belgium. 190 B-17s are dispatched to bomb Orly Airfield and the Villacoublay Air Depot, in France. 177 B-24s bomb Reims Airfield and a nearby marshalling yard, in France. A force of 271 B-17s and B-24s are dispatched to the marshalling yards at Liege and Brussels, Belgium, but the mission is abandoned due to heavy cloud cover. Escort is provided by 146 P-38s, 177 P-47s and 334 P-51s. The bombers and fighters shoot down four enemy airecraft and destroy two more on the ground. Two bombers, one P-38, one P-47 and two P-51s are lost, with 58 men listed as killed or missing.

During the night, 30 RAF Mosquitos attack Düsseldorf, Germany. The target area is cloud-covered and the Oboe markers quickly disappear into the cloud. Meanwhile, 14 Mosquitos attack Reisholz, five fly Serrate and four fly Intruder patrols, and 12 Halifaxes and four Stirlings lay mines off French Atlantic ports.

During the night, seven RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends around 450 B-26s to attack airfields, coastal defenses, and V-weapon sites in France. About 250 aircraft abort because of bad cloud conditions and a failure to rendezvous with the fighters. Meanwhile, P-47s dive-bomb targets in northwest Europe.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical 12^th Air Force

In Italy, weather prevents operations by medium and light bombers. 12^th Air Force fighter-bombers continue to hit communications and gun positions in the battle area, with areas in and around Vallecorsa and Terracina hit especially hard. Fighters maintain patrols and reconnaissance, destroying or damaging numerous vehicles between Pisa and Pistoia.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army’s II Corps area, elements of the 349^th Infantry, of the 88^th Division, clear Fondi and drive on to Monte Passignano. The French Expeditionary Force (FEC) closes in on Pico.

In the British Eighth Army area, Polish 2 Corps begins a battle for Piedimonte and reaches the outskirts, where indecisive fighting continues for next few days.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 19 B-24s to attack a convoy south of Hong Kong. They sink two motor launches and damaging several larger vessels, but lose three B-24s at sea. Meanwhile, 37 P-40s hit trucks, armored vehicles, river traffic and troops in or near Shasi, Ichang, Tangyang, Chingmen, Loyang and Loning, in China. On the Salween front, in the Burma-China area, 43 fighters and eight B-25s support ground forces and damage a bridge north of Tengchung over the

Shweli River.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, a force of over 100 A-36s, P-40s and P-51s pound gun positions, attack bridges, bomb troops and hit numerous targets of opportunity in areas around Myitkyina, Kamaing, Nanyaseik, and Nsopzup. 16 RAF Vengeances and two P-38s hit targets in the Arakan area, including a signal center southeast of Buthidaung, gun positions southeast of Maungdaw and a jetty at Akyab, while a group of about 40 B-24s and P-51s hit oil installations at Yenangyaung and Chauk, the airfield at Pakokku, and town of Akyab.

On the ground in Burma, General Stilwell reminds Admiral Mountbatten that his, Stilwell’s, forces will be released upon reaching Kamaing, according to the Cairo agreement. The 112^th Regiment, of the Chinese 38^th Division, takes Warong.

On Salween front, Chinese engineers complete a landing strip begun on May 12^th.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s, A-20s and B-25s hit airstrips, revetments, supply area, anti-aircraft positions and shipping at Manokwari, Noemfoor and Biak Islands, and Mawi Bay, in New Guinea. Meanwhile, A-20s, B-25s and fighter-bombers continue to pound airfields, coastal villages, bridges, supply dumps, trucks and various other targets at Wewak, and from Wewak to the shore of Hansa Bay.

In New Guinea, after mopping up the northeastern tip of Insoemoar Island, the Task Force TORNADO assault force returns to the mainland, turning over control of island to the 5^th Air Force. Japanese casualties on Insoemoar total 759 killed and four captured, with at least 50 more killed on the mainland. Total US casualties during the Wakde operation is 43 killed and 139 wounded. Of these, Army losses were 40 killed and 107 wounded.

On the mainland, Japanese efforts to recover the Tor River crossing site fail.

ALAMO Force warns Task Force PERSECUTION to expect a major Japanese effort against the Toem-Arare beachhead.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons sends a group of 22 B-25s, 44 P-39s, P-40s, P-38s and over 30 US Navy and US Marine Corps aircraft to pound anti-aircraft positions, bivouacs and supply areas from the Muguai- Ebery's Lease area, to the Maika area, on Bougainville Island. Elsewhere, 24 other P-39s hit barges in Matchin Bay, anti-aircraft guns on Sohano Island, and bridges at Kieta. On New Britain Island, three B-24s bomb the Tobera runway.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Engebi Island, bomb Ponape Island.

At Marcus Island, US Navy carrier planes, of a Fifth Fleet task force begin a two-day assault on the island.

1,138 · May 21, 2014

Sunday, May 21, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 360 – 40 B-17s hit V-weapon sites around Marquise/Mimoyecques, France, while 110 B-24s hit V-weapon sites near Siracourt, France. The mission is escort by 48 P-47s. As part of Operation CHATTANOOGA CHOO-CHOO, 145 P-38s, 139 P-47s, and 333 P-51s are dispatched on strafing missions to attack rail stock in Germany. They destroy 91 locomotives. 20 Luftwaffe aircraft are shot down, with 83 more destroyed on the ground. One P-51 pilot reports killing 25 cows. Eight P-38s, four P-47s and 15 P-51s are lost, with 27 men listed as killed or missing.

The RAF sends 510 Lancasters and 22 Mosquitos to Duisburg, Germany. The target is covered by cloud but the Oboe marking is accurate and much damage is caused in the southern areas of the city. Meanwhile, 70 Lancasters and 37 Halifaxes lay mines in the Frisians, Heligoland, the Kattegat and Kiel Bay. 25 more Mosquitos are sent to Hannover and eight to Courtrai, nine fly radio countermeasure sorties, 28 fly Serrate patrols and seven fly Intruder patrols. For the night, 32 Lancasters and crews are lost.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends 50 B-26s to bomb airfields at Abbeville/Drucat, France. A Force of over 600 P-47s and P-51s attack railroad rolling stock, as part of Operation CHATTANOOGA CHOO-CHOO.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In north-central Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers are restricted by bad weather but manage to bomb a few bridges and roads, while light bombers hit a bivouac area. Fighter-bombers continue to support of ground forces, hitting troops, vehicles, roads and railroads in or near the battle areas, particularly around Sezze, Ceccano, San Giovanni Valdarno and Pontecorvo.

Italy Campaign

In the II Corps sector, of the US Fifth Army area, the 85^th Division, whose next objective is Terracina, lands the 1^st Battalion, of the 338^th Infantry, at Sperlonga without opposition. Meanwhile, the 337^th Infantry drives overland toward Terracina, reaching positions near the town and overrunning Monte San Biagio. Elsewhere, the 88^th Division takes Monte Calvo and Cima del Monte.

The French Expeditionary Force (FEC) withstands determined enemy attacks at various points. On the left, one Mountain Corps group attacks across the Itri-Pico Road toward Lenola. The 1^st Motorized Division reaches positions between Monte Leucio and Monte Morrone. The 3^rd Algerian Division gains a foothold in Pico, but withdraws after nightfall to avoid encirclement.

The 351^st Infantry relieves the 349^th Infantry on Monte Passignano.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force moves the 27^th Troop Carrier Squadron from India, to China.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a group of over 120 P-40s, P-51s, A-36s and B-25s to hit Mogaung, Myitkyina, the Talawgyi-Hokat area, and Kamaing, in Burma, with gun positions around Myitkyina and Mogaung are also hit. Meanwhile, a single B-24 bombs the northwest part of Mandalay.

On the ground in Burma, the 3^rd Marauder Battalion, moving south from Charpate, is halted near Radhapur and repels enemy attacks down the Mogaung Road.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s, A-20s and P-38s attack airfields, town areas, barges, personnel and supply areas, and fuel dumps at Manokwari, Urarom, along the Moemi River and on Noemfoor and Biak Islands, in New Guinea. Meanwhile, fighter-bombers. A-20s and B-25s continue an almost constant pounding of supply dumps, camps, anti-aircraft positions and a variety of targets along the coast from Wewak to Hansa Bay.

Thirteenth Air Task Force B-24s bomb Truk Atoll.

In New Guinea, the Wakde airstrip becomes operational. Regimental Combat Team 158, of the ALAMO Force reserve, arrives at Toem.

South Pacific Area 13^th Air Force

Air Command Solomons sends three B-24s, a group of over 30 P-39s and P-40s, and over 40 US Navy dive bombers to hit the Vunakanau Airfield and a nearby plantation, on New Britain Island. Meanwhile, eight P-38s, followed shortly by US Navy aircraft, bomb the Lakunai Airfield. Elsewhere, a group of over 40 P-39s, P-38s, and P-40s fly sweeps over Bougainville Island, destroying bridges at Rigu Mission and Shishigatero.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 53 B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, to bomb various targets in Wotje Atoll. 41 B-25s, based on Makin Island, follow up with bombing, a cannonading and strafing attack on the atoll. Elsewhere, eight B-24s, staging through Eniwetok Atoll, strike Rota Island, in the Marianas Islands, and rearm to Los Negros Island.

Fifth Fleet carrier planes conclude damaging attacks on the Marcus Island.

1,138 · May 22, 2014

Monday, May 22, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 361 – 342 B-17s are dispatched to the port area at Kiel, Germany, and 96 B-24s hit V-weapon sites at Siracourt, France. Escort is provided by 145 P-38s, 95 P-47s and 328 P-51s. The fighters shoot down 22 enemy aircraft. Five B-17s, three P-38s, three P-47s and a P-51are lost, with 88 men listed as killed or missing. Elsewhere, 130 P-47s are dispatched on a fighter-bomber attack on railroad bridges at Hasselt and Liege, Belgium, losing one P-47.

During the night, the RAF sends 361 Lancasters and 14 Mosquitos to Dortmund. The attack fell mainly in the south-eastern districts of Dortmund, mostly in residential areas. Meanwhile, 225 Lancasters and 10 Mosquitos are sent to Brunswick. This raid was a failure, as the weather forecast had predicted a clear target, but the marker aircraft finds complete cloud coverage, and there is interference on the Master Bomber's radio communications. In other action, 112 Halifaxes, 13 Lancasters, and eight Mosquitos again attack the railway yards at Le Mans, and the nearby Gnome & Rhone factory. 108 Halifaxes, 12 Lancasters, and eight Mosquitos attack Orleans, hitting the railway passenger station and the repair workshops. 26 Mosquitos are sent to Ludwigshafen and nine more sent to Courtrai, nine others fly radio countermeasure sorties, 21 fly Serrate patrols and eight fly Intruder patrols, while 54 aircraft lay mines in the Frisians and off the French coast. For the night, 31 Lancasters and two Halifaxes are lost with their crews.

8^th Air Force Mission 363 – During the night, four B-17s drop 320,000 leaflets on The Hague, Haarlem, Rotterdam and Utrecht, in the Netherlands, and 12 B-24s are dispatched on CARPETBAGGER missions.

25 RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties, losing one Whitley, which probably becomes the last Whitley to be lost on operations.

Occupancy of all planned 8^th Air Force stations in Britain is completed with the transfer of the airfield at North Pickenham from the RAF to the 8^th Air Force. Total stations number 77, including 66 airfields, occupied by 82 operational or headquarter units.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of around 330 B-26s and A-20s to bomb airfields and other targets in the Cherbourg, Calais, and Paris areas, of France, while a like number of P-47s and P-51s dive-bomb marshalling yards, airfields and other targets in the same general areas.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers are inactive or abort missions except for a raid on Cave. Fighter-bombers maintain close support of the ground advance, hitting at motor transport, roads, and bridges in the battle areas and nearby points in central Italy, including Terracina, Ceccano, Sezze, Bastia, points between Rome and Bracciano Lake, and near Balsorano.

The 332^nd Fighter Group, with P-47s, is transferred to the 15^th Air Force. This move, following a series of reassignments of fighter groups to the 15^th Air Force and to India, leaves the XII Fighter Command with only one fighter group.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

As weather again clears, the 15^th Air Force sends over 550 bombers to attack communications and military targets in central and northwest Italy. B-17s bomb the marshalling yard at Avezzano, B-24s hit port areas at Fano, Porto Civitanova and La Spezia, and fighters fly over 200 sorties as escort for the bombers. There is no enemy fighter opposition.

The 332^nd Fighter Group, with P-47s, is transferred to the 15^th Air Force, from the 12^th Air Force.

Italy Campaign

The US Fifth Army revokes a previous order to the 509^th Parachute Infantry Battalion and directs it to be prepared to drop in the mountains above Pontine Marshes to facilitate the drive of II Corps on Terracina. However, this action does not become necessary. In II Corps area:

· The 337^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, recovers part of Monte San Croce under enemy fire from Terracina.

· The 338^th Infantry, attacking to block Highway 7 behind Terracina, is diverted by lively action at a railroad tunnel.

· The 350^th Infantry, of the 88^th Division, pushes from Monte Calvo toward Roccasecca.

· The 349^th Infantry secures Monte Monsicardi.

· The 351^st Infantry thrusts to Monte Chiavino.

· The 36^th Division closes in the Anzio beachhead.

In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, the Hitler Line collapses. One Mountain Corps group seizes Lenola and links the left flank with US II Corps. The 7^th Infantry, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, and another group of Mountain Corps converge on Pico and clear it.

In the British Eighth Army area, as a preliminary to their main offensive, the Canadian 1^st Division, of Canadian I Corps, tries unsuccessfully to outflank the enemy from the left in a limited attack.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, two B-25s attack a large concentration of sampans in Honghai Bay, while two others heavily damage a 150 foot cargo vessel near Hong Kong. Meanwhile, 22 P-51s pound the town of Anking and an area northeast of Nanchang, and 24 P-40s hit the Sienning area, bombing a factory west of town, damaging a bridge near town, and strafing numerous trucks in the vicinity. In fighter action, 23 P-40s hit road and river traffic in areas around Loyang, Loning, and Itu, and five more P-40s bomb Yangsin.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, the 3^rd Marauder Battalion withdraws to Charpate.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s and B-25s bomb Manokwari, shipping east of Cape Manggoear and storage areas and Sorido village, on Biak Island. Meanwhile, P-40s hit supply and fuel dumps, trucks and other targets of opportunity in the area of Wakde Island. Elsewhere, B-24s, B-25s and fighter-bombers continue to bomb and strafe various targets in the Wewak- Hansa Bay area, of New Guinea.

The 5^th Air Force moves the 348^th Fighter Group, with P-47s, from Saidor to Wakde Island.

On the ground in New Guinea, General Krueger enlarges the mission of Task Force TORNADO, whose task of securing the Wakde airdrome and the adjacent strip of mainland is completed. Their drive is to continue west toward Sarmi. Since enemy stragglers are interfering with work on the Wakde airdrome, Company L, of the 163^rd Infantry, moves to Insoemoar Island, to mop up. In the Aitape sector, Nyaparake Force, now consisting of the 32^nd Reconnaissance Troop and Company A, of the 127^th Infantry, continues active patrolling against increasing enemy resistance, which forces it back along the beach to Parakovio.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons dispatches a group of over 40 P-39s, P-38s and P-40s to hit targets of opportunity in the coastal area near Talili Bay, on New Britain Island. Meanwhile, 24 B-25s pound Mioko Island, in the Bismarck Archipelago. On Bougainville Island, over 40 P-39s bomb the Bonis supply area and blast four small bridges near Kieta.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends eight B-25s, based on Engebi Island, to bomb Ponape Island. Bad weather forces the cancelation of other strikes.

North Pacific Area

The 11^th Air Force dispatches two B-25s, based on Attu Island, in the Aleutian Islands, on a shipping strike near Paramushiru. They bomb and strafe a picket boat, which is left to sink.

1,138 · May 23, 2014

Tuesday, May 23, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 364 – 580 B-17s are dispatched to the marshalling yards at Metz, Epinal and Chaumont, and the airfields at Orleans/Bricy and Chateaudun, all in France. The marshalling yards at Saarbrucken, Germany, and Bayon, France, and the town of Neunkirchen, Germany, the Caen/Carpiquet Airfield and other targets of opportunity are also hit as secondary targets. 465 B-24s are dispatched to hit airfields at Orleans/Bricy, Bourges, Avord and Etampes/Mondesir. 8^th Air Force fighter escort is provided by 96 P-38s, 142 P-47s and 324 P-51s. 644 fighters from the 9^th Air Force also participate. Two B-17s, one B-24, as well as two P-38s and two P-47s from the 9^th Air Force are lost, with 36 men listed as killed or missing. No enemy aircraft are destroyed in combat.

8^th Air Force Mission 365 – 103 P-51s are dispatched to bomb a railroad bridge at Hasselt, Belgium. They are escorted by 75 P-51s , with 14 others acting as top cover. One P-51 is lost, with the pilot listed as missing.

During the night, 46 RAF Mosquitos attack Dortmund, Berlin and a railway junction at Lison, in France. Meanwhile, two others fly radio countermeasure sorties, two fly Serrate patrols, four other aircraft fly Resistance operations, and 30 more aircraft lay mines off various coasts.

8^th Air Force Mission 366 – During the night, five B-17s drop 928,000 leaflets on Belgium, and the Netherlands. Seven B-24s are dispatched on CARPETBAGGER operations.

Eight RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends 15 B-26s to bomb the airfield at Beaumont-le-Roger, France, in a predawn attack. During the afternoon 58 B-26s bomb coastal batteries at Etretat/Sainte-Marie-Au-Bosc, Maisy and Mont Fleury, all in France. Meanwhile, over 120 P-38s strafe and bomb rolling stock in central France.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers abort missions because of bad weather, however, light bombers hit communications between Cisterna di Roma and Campoleone, and fighter-bombers actively support the general offensive of Allied ground forces in the Liri Valley and at Anzio. Meanwhile, fighters, on armed reconnaissance, join in the attacks, hitting numerous enemy vehicles, gun positions, transport routes in and around Terracina, Littoria, Norma, Marcigliana, Fara in Sabina, Borghetto, Arezzo and Civita Castellena. A marshalling yard on the Empoli-Siena line is also hit.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 300 B-17s and B-24s to attack troop concentrations and communications in the rear of the battle area, at Avezzano, Subiaco, Valmontone, Marino, Nemi and Grottaferrata. P-38s and P-51s provide escort, while other P-38s, covered by P-47s, strafe the airfield at Ferrara.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army’s VI Corps area, Operation BUFFALO, an attack to break out of the Anzio beachhead, begins at 0630 hours, after artillery and air preparation. While the 45^th Division, on the extreme left, conducts a holding action, the main body of VI Corps attacks the enemy’s Cisterna defense line. On the left, the 1^st Armored Division, employing Combat Command A on the left and Combat Command B on the right, gets forward elements beyond the railroad. In the center, the 3^rd Division, with elements of three regiments in an assault, meets the strongest opposition, but gets about half way to Cisterna. The 1^st Special Service Force, followed by elements of the 133^rd Infantry, of the 34^th Division, attacks on the right, along the Mussolini Canal toward the railroad, but falls back to Highway 7 during a counterattack. On the left flank, in II Corps’ area, the 85^th Division’s 337^th Infantry pushes slowly down Monte San Croce to the outskirts of Terracina. The 338^th Infantry presses steadily toward Monte Lenano, and the 339^th Infantry seizes Sonnino. In the 88^th Division sector, the 350^th Infantry reaches Roccasecca.

The French Expeditionary Force (FEC) attacks to prevent the enemy withdrawal from the Liri Valley. They make slow progress since the enemy is intent on holding their line until withdrawal of the Hitler Line can be completed. The Mountain Corps relieves the 88^th Division, of II Corps, on Monte Chiavino and seizes Monte Pizzuto. The 2^nd Moroccan Division attacks from the San Oliva area, toward Pastena, and the 3^rd Algerian Division attacks from Pico, toward Ceprano, against determined resistance. The 1^st Motorized Division guards the right flank along the Liri.

In the British Eighth Army area, the Canadian I Corps, employing the Canadian 1^st Division, pushes toward the Aquino-Pontecorvo Road, penetrating the enemy’s defense line. The Canadian 5^th Armoured Division is ordered to attack through the gap.

Almost 1,500 prisoners are taken during day.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 12 P-38s to bomb the Tiddim Road, in Burma. Meanwhile, 12 B-24s bomb the Indaw marshalling yard and Homalin, while 16 P-38s attack the Kangaung Airfield, and 23 P-40s along with four A-36s bomb gun positions, troops and supply dumps in the Myitkyina area.

On the ground, the Marauders at Charpate, Burma, withstand a strong enemy attack. On the Salween front, the Japanese drive the Chinese from hill positions on the southern flank.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s hit Manokwari, while B-24s, A-20s and P-38s hit targets on Biak Island, including trucks at Borokoe, anti-aircraft positions and control tower at the Mokmer Airfield, the village of Sorido and offshore targets at Bransfari, all in New Guinea. Meanwhile, P-40s hit

troops on Wakde Island and on the Biri River, P-38s support ground forces in the Aitape area, and A-20s, P-39s. B-24s and B-25s maintain bombing and strafing of the Wewak-Hansa Bay area.

In New Guinea, Regimental Combat Team 158 relieves elements of the 163^rd Infantry at the Tor River mouth and begins a westward drive toward Sarmi. Meanwhile, the 3^rd Battalion is pinned down on the coastal track some 400 yards east of Maffin. The 1^st Battalion crosses the Tor to assist, but darkness prevents it from joining in the battle. In the Aitape sector, Nyaparake Force continues to fall back, but some elements reach Tadji.

Task Force HURRICANE holds a limited rehearsal for Biak.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons sends two B-24s to bomb Tobera, on New Britain Island, while 32 B-25s and a group of over 40 P-39s, P-38s and P-40s attack gun positions near Rabaul, near Lakunai and in the vicinity of the Tunnel Hill Road. On Bougainville Island, 51 P-39s and eight P-40s attack huts, barges, bridges and other targets of opportunity at several locations.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Makin Island, strike Jaluit Atoll. B-24s returning from Los Negros Island, where they landed after the raid on Rota on May 21, bomb Ponape Island.

1,138 · May 23, 2014

Wednesday, May 24, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 367 – 616 B-17s are dispatched to Berlin, with some hitting secondary targets at Nauen and Rechlin. Meanwhile, 490 B-24s are sent to bomb the airfields at Melun and Orly, with a small number hitting the Pix and Creil airfields. The fighter escort is provided by 144 P-38s, 178 P-47s and 280 P-51s. The fighters shoot down 33 Luftwaffe aircraft. 33 B-17s, one P-38, 0ne P-47 and eight P-51s are lost, with 496 men listed as killed or missing.

8^th Air Force Mission 368 – 74 P-47s are dispatched to hit bridges at Creil and Verberie, France, and 124 P-51s, escorted by 24 other P-51s, are dispatched to bomb bridges at Beaumont-sur-Oise and Soissons, and the St. Leger/Albert Airfield. The fighters shoot down three Luftwaffe aircraft and destroy two more on the ground. Three P-51s are lost, with the pilots listed as missing.

8^th Air Force Mission 369 – During the night, four B-17s drop over 2.5 million leaflets on France and Belgium. Three B-24s are dispatched on CARPETBAGGER operations.

During the night the RAF sends 264 Lancasters, 162 Halifaxes, and 16 Mosquitos to attack two railway yards at Aachen, Aachen-West and Rothe Erde (east of the town). These are important links in the railway system between Germany and France. Local reports indicate that the railway targets to the east of Aachen are particularly hard hit. Since this was a German town, Bomber Command sent more aircraft than normal for a railway raid and many bombs fell in Aachen itself and in the villages near the railway yards. In other action, 59 Lancasters and four Mosquitos are dispatched to attack the Philips factory at Eindhoven, but the Master Bomber orders the force not to bomb because of bad visibility. One aircraft did not hear the order and released its load. Meanwhile, 106 Halifaxes, 102 Lancasters and 16 Mosquitos, split into small forces, attack coastal gun positions at Boulogne, Colline Beaumont, Le Clipon and Trouville. Elsewhere, 44 Lancasters and seven Mosquitos attack the Ford motor factory at Antwerp, but the bombing misses the target, as some bombs fall on nearby dockside buildings. Elsewhere, 15 Mosquitos are sent to Berlin, six fly radio countermeasure sorties, 31 fly Serrate patrols and eight fly Intruder patrols, while 18 Halifaxes and seven Stirlings lay mines in the Frisians and off Brest. For the night, 19 Halifaxes and seven Lancasters are lost.

23 RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends over 450 B-26s to attack airfields, coastal defenses and V-weapon sites, while P-38s and P-47s dive-bomb four landing fields.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium, light and fighter-bombers fly numerous sorties in support of the rapidly advancing ground forces and in attacks against rail lines, bridges and roads in north-central Italy. Medium bombers hit at least five bridges, create several road blocks and cause havoc in communications to the north of the battle area, light bombers blast a bivouac area, and fighter-bombers have great success in attacks on motor transports, mainly in the battle area. With the assistance of RAF aircraft, the Allies destroy over 300 transports in the battle area.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force dispatches over 620 bombers to attack targets in Austria, and Italy. B-17s bomb the railroad viaduct at Avisio, Italy, and an aircraft components factory at Atzgersdorf, Austria. B-24s bomb the airfields at Wollersdorf, Bad Voslau, Graz and Munchendorf, in Austria, while escorting fighters fly over 250 sorties. Enemy fighter opposition is especially heavy against the B-24s attacking Bad Voslau, downing six of the heavy bombers.

Italy Campaign

The US Fifth Army takes direct control of the 36^th Engineer Combat Regiment, with ttachments,

from VI Corps, and orders it to push south via Littoria, to link up with II Corps. VI Corps continues to attack toward Cisterna after a 30 minute artillery preparation. The 1^st Armored Division drives well beyond Highway 7, with Combat Command A thrusting toward Velletri against stiffening resistance, and Combat Command B pushing toward Cori against weakening opposition. In the center, the 3^rd Division’s 30^th and 7^th Regiments close in on Cisterna. The 133^rd Infantry, of the 34^th Division, takes over the right flank attack toward Monte Arrestino, from the 1^st Special Service Force and advances to the railroad beyond Highway 7. In the II Corps area, elements of 337^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, take Terracina, from which the enemy has withdrawn, virtually completing the current mission of VI Corps. The Engineers and reconnaissance elements are opening the road to the Anzio beachhead.

In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, some troops of the Mountain Corps are driven from the crest of Monte Pizzuto, but recover it with the aid of the US 88^th Division, while others fight a seesaw battle for Vallecorsa. The Germans continue effective defense of Pastena, against 2^nd Moroccan Division thrusts. The 3^rd Algerian Division makes little progress on the right flank of the FEC.

In the British Eighth Army area, the Canadian I Corps takes Pontecorvo early in day and reduces enemy positions as far north as Aquino, which the Germans retain. Attacking through a breach made by the infantry, during the night, the Canadian 5th Armoured Division reaches the Melfa River and establishes a bridgehead across it, against heavy fire.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, the 10^th Air Force sends over 20 P-40s to the Myitkyina vicinity to destroy eight barracks buildings and knock out a railway bridge and a machinegun post. Meanwhile, a single B-24 bombs Gwa, in the Arakan area.

On the ground in Burma, the Japanese drive the 3^rd Marauder Battalion from Charpate, thus recovering the northern approach to Myitkyina. On the Salween front, the Chinese 226^th and 228^th Regiments make unsuccessful frontal attacks against a ridge that forms the southeast end of the Pingka valley.

Southwest Pacific Area

The 5^th Air Force dispatches A-20s to attack airfields at Namber and Kamiri, in New Guinea. Meanwhile, a force of over 200 A-20s, P-38s, P-47s, P-39s and B-25s continue to blast targets of opportunity in the Wewak-Hansa Bay area throughout the day.

In New Guinea, the 158^th Infantry, Task Force TORNADO, assisted by tanks and flame throwers, drives slowly west along the coast to the Tirfoam River. In the Aitape sector, Nyaparake Force continues its withdrawal to defensive positions at the mouth of a creek about 3,000 yards west of Yakamul.

South Pacific Area

In the Rabaul area, of New Britain Island, a group of 19 P-38s, P-40s and 22 B-25s attack Hospital Point gun positions, while two other B-25s hit the town of Rabaul. Meanwhile, fighter patrols hit various targets of opportunity in the Rabaul area and southern New Ireland Island. In the Solomon Islands, 51 P-39s, P-40s, and P-38s, and a single B-24, attack various targets on Buka-Bougainville Islands including Buka Airfield, east Bougainville coastal bridges, and Cape Lalahan radar station.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Makin Island, pound Wotje and Jaluit atolls, using Majuro Atoll as a shuttle base for rearming between the strikes. B-25s, based at Engebi Island, hit Ponape Island.

US Navy carrier aircraft of Fifth Fleet attack Wake Island.

North Pacific Area

Two bombers, from the 11^th Air Force, fly weather and photo reconnaissance over Shimushu Island and bomb the Matsuwa Island area.

1,138 · May 25, 2014

Thursday, May 25, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 370 – 406 bombers and 604 fighters make visual attacks on rail installations and airfields in Belgium and France:

· 307 B-24s are dispatched to the marshalling yards at Belfort and Mulhouse. Some aircraft hit the Tonnere marshalling yard and the Bretigny and Dijon airfields.

· 320 B-17s are dispatched to the Nancy/Essey Airfield and the marshalling yards at Metz, Saarguemines and Blainville. Some hit the Thionville marshalling yard and Liege Airfield, in Belgium.

· 103 B-24s bomb the Montignies sur Sambre and Alos marshalling yards.

· In Belgium 247 B-17s are dispatched against the marshalling yards at Brussels/Schaerbeck, Brussels/Midi and Leige/Guillemines. Other marshalling yards hit are located at Brussels/Melsbroek and Liege/Renory, in Belgium.

· 38 B-17s and 18 B-24s are sent to bomb the Fecamp coastal gun battery.

· 15 B-17s hit the St Valery coastal gun battery .

Fighter escort is provided by 136 P-38s, 181 P-47s and 287 P-51s. The fighters shoot down 13 Luftwaffe aircraft and destroy three more on the ground. Two B-24s, two B-17s, nine P-38s and three P-51s are lost, with 61 men listed as killed or missing.

8^th Air Force MISSION 371 – During the night, four B-17s drop leaflets in France.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends over 225 B-26s to attack bridges near Liege, Belgium, and airfields at Lille/Nord and Monchy-Breton, in France. Meanwhile, about 250 P-47s dive-bomb various targets in western Europe.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

The 12^th Air Force has its most active day to date against enemy forces in Italy. Some medium bombers continue to pound bridges in north-central Italy, damaging several bridges and viaducts, while others join light bombers and fighter-bombers in close support of ground troops in the battle area and behind enemy lines. Motor transport north and south of Rome, and north of Anzio, is hit hard by the air attacks.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force dispatches over 340 bombers to attack targets in France and Italy. The B-17s attack the marshalling yard at Lyon, France, while the B-24s attack the marshalling yards at Amberieux, Toulon and Givors, France. In Italy, the port area at Monfalcone, the airfield at Piancenza and the industrial area at Porto Marghera are also hit by B-24s. P-38s and P-51s fly over 200 sorties in support of the bomber missions.

Italy Campaign

The US Fifth Army achieves a solid front with the junction of VI Corps and II Corps during the morning. Brett Force, consisting of the 1^st Battalion of the 36^th Engineers, tank destroyers, and reconnaissance elements of the British 1^st Division, makes contact with the 91^st Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, of II Corps, below Borgo Grappa. The opening of Highway 7 permits supplies to move northward for the assault on Rome. VI Corps overruns Cisterna, Cori, and Monte Arrestino, as enemy opposition collapses. Supporting aircraft take extremely heavy toll of German vehicles fleeing toward Velletri and Valmontone. Over 2,600 prisoners are taken by noon. The 1^st Armored Division makes little progress toward Velletri, but cuts the Giulianello-Velletri Road, just west of Giulianello. The 34^th Division, of the 133^rd Infantry, takes up positions behind the 1^st Armored Division. In the center, the 3^rd Division seizes Cisterna and Cori, while the 3^rd Regiment, of the 1^st Special Service Force, attacks through the 133^rd Infantry, on the right flank of VI Corps, and secures Monte Arrestino. II Corps is informed of impending relief by IV Corps, and maintains their current positions while waiting for the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) to come up abreast it to on the right. The 339^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, crosses the Amaseno River into the hills west of Priverno.

The FEC overcomes organized resistance within its sector, at San Giovanni Incarico, on the right, and Vallecorsa, on the left. The 3^rd Algerian Division takes San Giovanni Incarico and the Mountain Corps takes Vallecorsa. The 1^st Motorized Division is withdrawn as FEC reserve.

The British Eighth Army also makes rapid progress as the enemy begins a general withdrawal. Canadian I Corps expands the bridgehead across the Melfa River and passes infantry units through armor units to exploit the area toward the Liri River. XIII Corps begins a forward movement, taking Aquino without opposition, and reaching the Melfa River, where a bridgehead is established. Polish 2 Corps secures the rest of Piedimonte, as the Germans withdraw.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 28 P-38s, from the 10^th Air Force, sweep over the Mandalay area. 12 of them hit about 10 railroad cars near Shwebo, leaving them burning. Meanwhile, B-24s hit targets in the Katha area, with six of them bombing Indaw and four bombing the Naba rail junction area.

On the ground in Burma, Indian 3^rd Division columns begin a withdrawal, with some elements up the Bhamo-Myitkyina Road, and others toward Mogaung, abandoning a roadblock, called BLACKPOOL, on the railway near Namkwin. This is a matter of some concern to General Stilwell, who wants the blocking of enemy troops in the south continued. Outflanking the enemy, elements of the Chinese 38^th Division block the Kamaing Road, at Seton, evoking a strong enemy reaction.

On the Salween front, the Chinese 88^th Division is ordered to join the 87^th Division and the new 28^th Division, of the 71^st Army, in a drive on Lung-ling, leaving the Chinese 2^nd Army responsible for operations in the Pingka-Hsiangta-Mangshih area. The 2^nd Army orders the 76^th Division to bypass Pingka, leaving the 226^th Regiment to besiege the valley. The Japanese are finally forced from defensive positions at east end of the Tatangtzu Pass and fall back eight miles to another line of defense.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s attack shipping at Halmahera Island and in New Guinea, hitting Mokmer and targets in the Wakde area. Meanwhile, a force of over 90 fighter-bombers, A-20s, B-25s, and B-24s pound numerous targets in the Wewak area.

In New Guinea, command of Task Force TORNADO, operations in the Wakde-Sarmi area, passes from General Doe, Assistant Division Commander of the 41^st Division, to Brigadier General Edwin Patrick. The headquarters of Regimental Combat Team 158, replaces the headquarters of Regimental Combat Team 163, as TORNADO headquarters. General Doe is to head the assault force for the Biak operation, as Task Force HURRICANE leaves Humboldt Bay for Biak in the evening. Continuing west toward Sarmi, with the 1^st Battalion in the lead, the 158^th Infantry takes Maffin No. 1, against scattered opposition. The 1^st and 2^nd Battalions then cross the Tirfoam River and press west toward their next objective, Lone Tree Hill, against strong resistance.

South Pacific Area

On New Britain Island, three B-24s bomb Rabaul, Lakunai, and Rapopo, while eight P-38s hit the Vulcan Crater barge hideout, and 12 B-25s, clouded out of Vunakanau, hit the Talili Bay supply area. On Bougainville Island, 15 B-25s, a group of 32 P-39s and P-40s, and 25 US Navy dive bombers hit supply areas at Porton, while four other P-40s hit trucks at Monoitu Mission, and 16 P-39s attack several targets of opportunity, including the Cape Lalahan radar station.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, flying out of Engebi Island, bomb Ponape Island.

North Pacific Area

The 11^th Air Force sends two B-24s, based on Shemya Island, in the Aleutian Islands, to fly a reconnaissance and bombing mission in the central Kurile Islands. One of the B-24s aborts due to equipment failure.

1,138 · May 26, 2014

Friday, May 26, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 372 – During the night, four B-17s drop leaflets in the Netherlands, while P-38s participate in two sweeps over the Netherlands for familiarization purposes. One sweep consists of 30 aircraft, the second consists of 28 aircraft.

During the night, 30 RAF Mosquitos attack Ludwigshafen, 11 are sent to railway yards at Aachen and eight more to Lison, seven fly Serrate patrols, and 42 aircraft lay mines off the Dutch, Belgian and French coasts. Two Mosquitos are lost from the Ludwigshafen raid.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of almost 400 B-26s and A-20s to attack airfields at Beaumont-sur-Oise and Chartres and bridges at Vernon and Poissy, all in France. Meanwhile, a group of 108 P-47 and P-51 fighter-bombers hit a bridge at Oissel and airfields at Creil, Cormeilles-en-Vesin and Evreux/Fauville, while P-47s and P-38s dive-bomb targets in northwestern Europe.

The 425^th Night Pursuit Squadron, flying P-61s, arrives in England, from the US, and joins the 9^th Air Force.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers hit railway targets in the Florence area and bomb roads in the battle area with good results. Light bombers hit Frascati, while other medium bombers join fighter-bombers in an assault against motor transport, achieving wide-spread enemy vehicle destruction, especially on the Rome-Bracciano road, over which the enemy is pouring reinforcements south toward the battle area.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force dispatches almost 700 bombers to targets in France, and Yugoslavia. B-17s bomb the marshalling yard at St Etienne, France, while B-24s hit a bridge over the Var River, marshalling yards at Lyon/ Vaise, Lyon/Mouche, Chambery, Grenoble and Nice, all in France, and troop concentrations at Bihac, Yugoslavia. Fighters escort the bombers and strafe and dive-bomb the airfield at Donji Zemunik, Yugoslavia.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army area, VI Corps boundary is altered to give “the factory” to the British. Upon completing extensive regrouping and preparatory bombardment, VI Corps renews its attack at 1100 hours. On the left flank, the 45^th and 34^th Divisions, pushing toward the line from Campoleone Station, to Lanuvio, make average gains of about 1.5 miles despite considerable opposition. The 1^st Armored Division tries in vain to reach Velletri over terrain unsuitable for armor, and after nightfall withdraws into reserve status, turning over its sector to the 36^th Division. The 143^rd Infantry, of the 36^th Division, and reconnaissance elements bridge a broad gap between the 34^th and 3^rd Divisions and apply limited pressure toward Velletri. The 3^rd Division, assisted by Task Force Howze, of the 1^st Armored Division, on the left, and the 1^st Special Service Force, on the right, drives northward on the right flank of VI Corps to positions south and west of Artena. Meanwhile, Task Force Howze cuts the Velletri-Valmontone Road in a push toward Highway 6. In the II Corps area, the 339^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, consolidates positions west of Priverno. The 88^th Division’s 350^th and 349^th Regiments advance from the Roccasecca area across the Amaseno Valley, beginning at 2300 hours.

In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, the 2^nd Moroccan Division overruns Pastena and advances into the hills east of Castro dei Volsci, pinching out the 3^rd Algerian Division, which then takes Falvaterra.

The British Eighth Army issues orders for regrouping while pursuing the retreating enemy. Canadian I Corps reaches the Liri River, where bridges are down. Patrols find Ceprano clear of enemy. In the XIII Corps area, the 6^th Armoured Division, driving on Arce, is checked by a delaying opposition at the Providero Defile. The Indian 8^th Division takes Roccasecca, and attempts to outflank the enemy at Arce in support of the 6^th Armoured Division. Polish 2 Corps is being pinched out by XIII Corps on the left and II Corps on the right and loses contact with the enemy. X Corps begins pursuit, with the New Zealand 2^nd Division taking San Biagio-Atina-Sora. The Italian Liberation Corps is sent along Highway 83 toward Monte Cavallo.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 23 P-40s, from the 14^th Air Force, sink several supply boats on the Yangtze River near Shihshow, strafe troops at Shasi, hit road traffic near Loyang and strafe pontoon bridges, supply dumps and troops at Shanhsien. Meanwhile, seven P-40s bomb the town of Hsing-tzu, and two B-25s damage a small tanker north of Swatow.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, the Japanese further weaken the positions of the Marauders in the Myitkyina area with the recovery of Namkwi, from the 2^nd Battalion.

On the Salween front, the 27^th Troop Carrier Squadron arrives at Yun-nan-i and within two days is dropping badly needed supplies to Y–Force.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s bomb Biak Island, while B-25s hit Wakde Island and nearby coastal areas, in New Guinea. Meanwhile, other B-25s bomb a variety of targets on Aroe Island, and a force of over 100 A-20s, B-25s and fighter-bombers continue to blast the coastal region around Wewak, while villages and gun positions on Hansa Bay are also hit.

In New guinea, the 1^st Battalion, of the 158^th Infantry, continues slowly west toward Lone Tree Hill. Preliminary bombardment by naval vessels and artillery is poorly timed and permits the Japanese to reoccupy positions previously vacated. The enemy is found to be strongly disposed on the approaches to the Maffin Strip.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons dispatches a group of 24 P-39s and P-40s to attack the Rabaul area, on New Britain Island, while 12 B-25s bomb supply areas at Talili Bay. In other action, a group of over 40 P-39s and P-40s hit barges northwest of Ballale Island, in the Solomon Islands, supply areas and other targets at Porton, and piers at Ratsua and Soraken, all on Bougainville Island.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 45 B-25s, flying out of Makin Island, to attack Emidj Island, in the Jaluit Atoll. Elsewhere, nine B-25s from Engebi Island fly a successful search mission for a downed B-25 crew in the vicinity of Ponape and Pakin islands, in the Caroline Islands. After locating the survivors, which are later picked up by a US Navy destroyer, the B-25s attack Pakin and Ponape islands with cannon and machinegun fire.

North Pacific Area

Two B-24s, from the 11^th Air Force, on an armed photo mission over Shimushu Island turn back due to mechanical troubles.

1,138 · May 27, 2014

Saturday, May 27, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 373 – 1,126 bombers and 710 fighters are dispatched against rail targets in France, and Germany, and gun batteries in France:

· 344 B-17s are dispatched to the marshalling yards at Ludwigshafen and Mannheim. Other aircraft hit Lachen/Apeyerdorf, the Mannheim area and targets of opportunity

· 269 B-17s are dispatched to the marshalling yards at Karlsruhe and Strasbourg, France, and an aviation factory at Strasbourg/Meinau, France .

· 86 B-24s bomb an aviation factory at Woippy, France.

· 369 B-24s are dispatched to the marshalling yards at Saarbrucken, Neunkirchen and Kons/Karthus

· 40 B-17s bomb the Fecamp coastal gun battery, in France.

· 18 B-24s bomb St Valery, France.

Fighter escort is provided by 170 P-38s, 238 P-47s and 302 P-51s. The fighters shoot down 35 enemy aircraft and destroy nine more on the ground. 19 B-17s, five B-24s, one P-38, and six P-51s are lost, with 247 men listed as killed or missing. 425 more aircraft, from the 9^th Air Force also support the mission, shooting down four enemy aircraft but losing one of their own.

8^th Air Force Mission 374 – 24 P-47s hit a barge convoy between Willenstadt and Meerije, in the Netherlands, destroying two barges.

During the night, the RAF sends aircraft to attack targets in France, Belgium and Germany:

· 267 Halifaxes, 56 Lancasters, and eight Mosquitos to attack the military camp at Bourg Léopold, in Belgium.

· 162 Lancasters and eight Mosquitos attack the Rothe Erde railway yards at Aachen, Germany. The railway lines at the yards, which were not seriously hit in the raid of May 25, were now severely damaged and all through traffic was halted. A large proportion of delayed-action bombs were dropped. The local people were impressed that the whole raid only lasted 12 minutes.

· 100 Lancasters and four Mosquitos attack a railway junction and workshops at Nantes, France. The first 50 Lancasters bomb so accurately that the Master Bomber orders the remainder of the force to retain their bombs.

· 78 Lancasters and five Mosquitos attack the airfield at Rennes, France. The marking was good and the bombing was very accurate. The airfield suffers heavy damage and there is a large explosion, probably in the bomb dump.

· 208 Lancasters, 49 Halifaxes, and 15 Mosquitos hit five coastal gun battery positions on the French coast.

· 23 Mosquitos attack Berlin and six hit Düsseldorf, while seven fly radio countermeasure sorties, 28 fly Serrate patrols and 10 fly Intruder patrols. 60 other aircraft lay mines from Le Havre to the River Gironde, and 10 aircraft fly resistance operations.

For the night four Mosquitos, nine Halifaxes and 15 Lancaster lost, with their crews.

8^th Air Force Mission 375 – During the night, four B-17s drop leaflets in Belgium, and France.

Seven RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends about 590 B-26s to attack railroad, bridges, and marshalling yards in France, and P-47s to bomb targets in northwestern Europe.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers concentrate their efforts against lines of communications in the Orvieto area. A-20s bomb a storage area, and fighter-bombers pound a much reduced flow of motor transport behind enemy lines and hit railroads, gun positions, bridges, and targets of opportunity behind the battle area, hitting targets at Subiaco, Sora, Tivoli, Frosinone, Capena, and Orvieto, west of Bracciano Lake, between Sulmona and San Benedetto de Marsi and at several other points.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

Almost 700 bombers, from the 15^th Air Force, hit France. B-17s bomb the marshalling yard at Avignon, while B-24s bomb the airfields at Montpellier and Salon and the marshalling yards at Nimes, Marseille/St Charles and Marseille/La Blancharde. Fighter escort is provided by P-38s and P-51s.

Italy Campaign

In the US Fifth Army’s VI Corps area, the 45^th and 34^th Divisions gain ground on the left flank of VI Corps, against spotty resistance. The 1^st Armored Division is alerted for a breakthrough attempt, and the 142^nd Infantry, of the 36^th Division, is to exploit the breakthrough if it is achieved by armor. The 36^th Division commits the 141^st Infantry northwest of Velletri, to plug gap existing between the 143^rd Infantry and 3^rd Division. On the right flank of VI Corps, the 3^rd Division’s 15^th Infantry clears Artena. Task Force Howze again fails to reach Highway 6, north of Artena, but holds positions dominating it. The 1^st Special Service Force emplaces artillery on the crest of a hill above Artena, on the extreme right. The 3^rd Division organizes the Artena area for defense and repels a tank-infantry counterattacks. During the night, II Corps turns over its sector and troops, except for organic units and the 85^th Division, to IV Corps. 85^th Division troops move into Sezze and the hills south of Roccagorga, while the 350^th Infantry, of the 88^th Division, seizes Roccagorga. The 351^st relieves the 85^th Division on the left of the 350^th.

The French Expeditionary Force (FEC) clears Amaseno, Monte Siserno, and Castro dei Volsci.

In the British Eighth Army area, the Canadian I Corps crosses elements over the Liri River in assault boats, under fire, and occupies Ceprano. In the XIII Corps area, elements of 78^th Division start toward Ceprano to pursue the enemy toward Frosinone. The 6^th Armoured Division, assisted by the Indian 8^th Division, continues its efforts to take Arce. In the X Corps area, the Italian Corps of Liberation seizes Monte Cavallo from enemy rear guards, and the New Zealand 2^nd Division gets elements to Atina.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 24 rocket-firing P-40s, from the 14^th Air Force, hit the barracks area west of Sinyang, military installations and trucks at Nanchang, and troops, trucks, barracks, and warehouse area in the Puchi vicinity.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 15 B-24s to bomb Pakokku and Nyaung-u, Burma.

In the Myitkyina area, of Burma, the 2^nd Marauder Battalion, reinforced by the 209^th Engineer Combat Battalion, completely spends its strength in battle just south of Charpate while endeavoring to reach Radhapur.

On the Salween front, the Chinese force securing the Huei-jen Bridge area, has elements within five miles of Hongmoshu. Monsoon rains are restricting activities of both sides.

In China, the Japanese begin a second phase, called TOGO, of their ICHI GO operation, moving two divisions south in the region east of the Hsiang River.

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, Babo Airfield and Biak Island are pounded by a group of over 170 B-24s and B-25s, from the 5^th Air Force. A force of about 170 A-20s, P-38s, P-40s and B-25s blast the Wewak area.

On the ground in New Guinea, Task Force HURRICANE, consisting largely of the 41^st Division, of Regimental Combat Team 163, lands on Biak Island, in the Bosnek area after naval and air preparation. Against token resistance, the 186^th Infantry secures an initial beachhead and a trail over the ridges to an inland plateau north of Bosnek. The 162^nd Infantry starts west toward the airfields, overcoming opposition in the Parai Defile, to reach Parai. General Fuller, commander of the 41^st Division and of Task Force HURRICANE, takes command ashore. A Japanese air attack causes little damage.

In the Wakde-Sarmi area, the 158^th Infantry continues a drive on Lone Tree Hill and gains positions on it. The Japanese begin series of attacks against the beachhead. During the night, some 200 men are committed against Toem.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons sends about 200 Army, USMC and US Navy aircraft against gun positions on Hospital Point. Over 160 aircraft bomb the targets with more than 90 tons of explosives, destroying or damaging several of the guns. Other fighters hit targets of opportunity in the Rabaul area and a barge off southwest New Ireland Island. Meanwhile, four B-24s bomb Tobera. On Bougainville Island, 13^th Air Force fighters attack beached barges in the Chabai area and in Buka Passage, Aku and Nova Plantation and a bridge over the Oamai River.

A detachment of 419^th Night Pursuit Squadron, operating P-61s from Bougainville, returns to its base on Guadalcanal Island.

Central Pacific Area

24 B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, and 52 B-25s, from Engebi Island, pound Ponape Island.

North Pacific Area

The 11^th Air Force dispatches two bombers to fly weather and armed photo reconnaissance and bomb Ushishiru Island, in the Kurile Islands.

1,138 · May 28, 2014

Sunday, May 28, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 376 – 1,341bombers and 697 fighters are dispatched to hit oil targets in Germany:

· 610 B-17s are dispatched against oil targets at Ruhland/Schwarz-Heide and an aircraft factory at Dessau. Secondary targets are aviation factories at Zwickau and Leipzig. Other targets hit in the raid include: Bohlen, Meissen, the Brandis/Polenz Wusten-Sachsen Airfield, the Frankfurt marshalling yard, Ubigau, Dessau, Frankfurt city, Camburg and targets of opportunity.

· 255 B-17s are dispatched to an oil dump at Konigsburg/Magdeburg and oil industry at Magdeburg/Rothensee. Other target include Dessau and the marshalling yard at Gera.

· 106 B-24s are dispatched to Lutzkendorf/Halle, and Wetzlar.

· 311 B-24s are dispatched to oil targets at Merseburg/Leuna and Zeitz-Troglitz. Other targets include Limburg, Memmingen, Saalfeld and targets of opportunity.

· 59 B-17s hit the Cologne/Eifeltor marshalling yard. Glide bombs are used, but the weapon proves unsuccessful.

Fighter escort is provided by 182 P-38s, 208 P-47s, 307 P-51s and another 527 aircraft from the 9^th Air Force. The fighters and bombers shoot down 97 enemy aircraft and destroy another five on the ground. 26 B-17s, six B-24s, four P-47s, five P-51s and five 9^th Air Force aircraft, with 290 men listed as killed or missing.

During the night, 118 RAF Lancasters and eight Mosquitos attack the railway yards and junction at Angers. The Bomber Command report describes this as 'a good, concentrated attack' with the tracks and rolling stock very seriously damaged. A brief report from Angers, however, shows that much of the bombing must have fallen outside the target. Elsewhere, 181 Lancasters and 20 Mosquitos bomb three coastal gun positions. In other action, 31 Mosquitos attack Ludwigshafen and six hit a railway junction at Laval, three fly radio countermeasure sorties and six fly Intruder patrols. Meanwhile, 10 Halifaxes and six Stirlings lay mines off the Dutch, Belgian and French coasts, 24 aircraft fly resistance operations. For the night, two Lancasters are lost.

8^th Air Force Mission 377 – During the night, five B-17s drop leaflets in Belgium, and Norway. 22 B-24s are dispatched on CARPETBAGGER missions, losing one aircraft.

14 RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties. Two Wellingtons from this operation are shot down in error by anti-aircraft guns on the Dorset coast.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 600 B-26s and A-20s to bomb the marshalling and naval yards, railway bridges and V-weapon sites in France and Belgium. Eight aircraft are lost. Later, P-47s dive-bomb several targets in the same general area.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers hit bridges, viaducts, and railroad lines at several locations in central Italy, including Narni, Cortana, Terni, Ladispoli, Torrita di Siena, Magnano, Recco, Arezzo, Rapallo, Vado, Bucine, and Castiglion Fiorentino. Meanwhile, light bombers hit an ammunition dump while fighter-bombers continue close support to advancing ground forces, encountering considerably less enemy motor transport behind lines because of the heavy attrition of recent days. Many roads, railroads and bridges are hit as well as numerous other targets along the battlefront which now stretches from the west coast, southwest of Carroceto, to the northeast almost to Valmontone, then southwest to just above Sezze, and from there ambles east to northeast to the east coast below Pescara.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force dispatches over 100 B-24s to bomb Genoa harbor and the Vercelli marshalling yard, in Italy, and troop concentrations at Niksic, Yugoslavia. In Yugoslavia, P-38s fly fighter sweeps against airfields in the Kurilovec area and vehicles, communications lines and targets of opportunity in the Knin-Bihac-Banjaluka area.

Italy Campaign

In the US Fifth Army area, VI Corps meets increased resistance on its left flank. The 180^th and 157^th Regiments, of the 45^th Division, advance to the railroad west of the Albano Road, but the 157^th is forced back by a counterattack. The 179^th Infantry moves forward to fill the gap along the railroad between the 45^th and 34^th Divisions. The 34^th Division, with the 133^rd Infantry on the left and the 168^th on the right, battles enemy strongpoints below Lanuvio. The 3^rd Division patrols actively on the right flank of VI Corps. The 1^st Special Service Force repels an enemy thrust down the Valmontone Road.

The French Expeditionary Force (FEC) continues clearing the Lepini Mountains. On the right, the 2^nd Moroccan Division is approaching Ceccano.

In the British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, German forces withdraw from Arce, during the night. In the X Corps area, the New Zealand 2^nd Division reaches the Melfa River and establishes a bridgehead.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 14 P-40s in support of ground forces in the Salween area, of China. They strafe oil storage at Hsiangta, bomb and strafe the Watien area, and destroy a bridge and damage another on the Shweli River, north of Tengchung. Meanwhile, two B-25s sink a patrol boat and damage another near Saint John Island.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 10 B-24s, from the 10^th Air Force, pound Kalemyo, while eight B-25s hit Tiddim Road, and over 50 fighter-bombers and a few B-25s hit various targets at or near Mogaung, Myitkyina, Hopin and Sahmaw. Elsewhere, 76 fighter-bombers and 24 B-25s bomb the marshalling yards at Namma and Katha, hit several targets in the Mohnyin-Hopin area, and bomb a railroad between Naba and Namma.

On Salween front, General Wei, having decided to commit the Chinese 71^st Army across the river below the Hwei-tung Bridge to seize Lung-ling, while a containing force attacks the Japanese on Sung Shan, prepares for ferrying operations at Shihtien, eight miles south of the Hwei-tung Bridge. The Salween is rising sharply because of monsoon rains.

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, 5^th Air Force B-24s and B-25s, in support of ground forces on Biak Island, hit villages, supply areas, troop concentrations and gun positions on Biak, Noemfoor, and Japen Islands. Meanwhile, A-20s, B-25s, and fighter-bombers blast troop concentrations, anti-aircraft positions and supply dumps in the Wewak area, while A-20s, supporting ground forces in heavy fighting in the Sarmi area, hit positions with minimum-level strikes. Elsewhere, B-24s bomb Boela, Ceram Island, and Thirteenth Air Task Force B-24s bomb the airfield on Woleai Atoll.

On the ground in New Guinea, while the 186^th Infantry expands the beachhead on Biak, the 162^nd continues west toward the airfields. Strong opposition develops at a road junction west of Mokmer village, but the 3^rd Battalion, of the 162^nd Infantry, gets to within 200 yards of Mokmer airfield. The Japanese counterattack, forcing the 3^rd Battalion back and splitting it. The 2^nd and 1^st Battalions try to clear the terrace behind the 3^rd but make little headway under fire from the East Caves, on the dominating cliff north of Mokmer village. Small craft take ammunition and medical supplies to the 3^rd Battalion, and a platoon of tanks is sent west along the coastal road. Deciding that the position is untenable, General Fuller recalls the 3^rd Battalion to positions held on the night of 27^th and requests reinforcements. In the Wakde-Sarmi area, the 158^th Infantry continues costly efforts to advance, after a preparatory artillery bombardment. When forward positions become untenable, the attack is halted, and assault forces are ordered back to the Snaky River line. General Patrick requests that Regimental Combat Team 163, scheduled for Biak, be kept in the Wakde area pending the arrival of elements of the 6^th Divisiion.

South Pacific Area

On New Britain Island, three B-24s, followed by 23 B-25s and 12 P-38s, blast the airfield at Lakunai, while a group of 33 P-39s and P-40s join over 40 US Navy dive bombers in a strike on the Tobera airstrip. Meanwhile, five B-25s hit the Namatanai supply and personnel area, on New Ireland Island. On Bougainville Island, fighter-bombers hit the Tsundan supply area, huts and buildings at Gohi, Nova and Monoitu, a suspected barge hideout near Tonolai, and anti-aircraft guns on Ballale Island.

Central Pacific Area

29 B-25s staging from Eniwetok Atoll, bomb Jaluit Atoll, and land at Makin Island. B-24s, from Eniwetok Atoll, bomb Saipan and Guam islands, in the Marianas Islands. Those bombing Guam turn south to Los Negros Island to rearm, while the others return to Eniwetok. B-25s, flying from Engebi Island, bomb Mille Atoll, in the Marshall Islands. B-24s escort US Navy photo planes over the Marianas Islands.

North Pacific Area

The 11^th Air Force dispatches two B-24s to fly reconnaissance and drop bombs on Shimushu and Matsuwa Islands. One B-25 and a P-38s fly a guardship coverage mission, two other B-25s fly a nonproductive anti-shipping sweep.

1,138 · May 28, 2014

Monday, May 29, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 379 – 993 bombers and 673 fighters are dispatched to attack aircraft plants and oil installations in Germany and Poland:

· 443 B-24s are dispatched to hit an oil terminal at Politz, and an airfield and aircraft assembly plant at Tutow . Other targets hit include the Rensburg Airfield, Misdroy and Schwerin.

· 251 B-17s are dispatched to hit aviation industry targets at Leipzig/ Mockau and Leipzig/Heiterblick.

· 299 B-17s are dispatched to hit aviation industry targets at Krzesinki and Posen, Poland, and Sorau and Cottbus, Germany. The Schneidemuhl Airfield is also bombed.

Fighter escort is provided by 184 P-38s, 187 P-47s and 302 P-51s, which are joined by 592 more fighters from the 9^th Air Force. Combined, the bombers and fighters shoot down 102 Luftwaffe aircraft and destroy another 16 on the ground. 17 B-24s, 17 B-17s, four P-47s, six P-51s and two 9^th Air Force fighters are lost, with 328 men listed as killed or missing.

During the night, the RAF sends 31 Mosquitos to Hannover, 11 to an ammunition dump at Xanten and four to a coastal battery at Mardyck. Meanwhile, six Halifaxes lay mines off Ijmuiden, Dunkirk, and Brest.

23 B-24s, from the 8^th Air Force, are dispatched on CARPETBAGGER missions, with the loss of one aircraft and crew.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 450 B-26s and A-20s to bomb airfields, marshalling yards, railroad bridges, coastal battery and NOBALL (V-weapon) targets in France, and Belgium. Later, over 200 P-47s bomb targets in the same area.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, B-25s, from the 12^th Air Force, bomb rail bridges near Bucine and at Poggibonsi and Lisciano, while B-26s hit viaducts at Terni and near Stifone, railroad junction and the marshalling yard at Terentola, the Castiglion Fiorentino bridge, the Voltri shipyards and a bridge nearby. Meanwhile, A-20s hit troops in bivouac and bomb a supply dump, as fighter-bombers continue to blast motor transport between the battle lines and Rome, and C-47s evacuate over 400 wounded soldiers from the Anzio area.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force sends 829 bombers, the largest number of bombers completing attacks in a single day, up to this time, to bomb targets in Austria and Yugoslavia. B-17s and B-24s attack an aircraft factory at Wollesdorf, Austria. B-24s also attack industrial areas at Wiener Neustadt and Atzgersdorf, Austria, and troop concentrations at Poderica, Yugoslavia. P-38s and P-51s escort the Austrian missions, while P-38s accompany B-24s to Yugoslav targets strafe numerous targets of opportunity on the return trip. Fighter opposition over Yugoslavia is negligible but around 150 fighters attempt an interception over Austria, principally in the Wiener-Neustadt area, and 23 Allied aircraft are lost. The bombers and fighters shoot down over 60 enemy fighters.

Italy

In US Fifth Army’s VI Corps area, the 1^st Armored Division attacks up the Albano Road, with Combat Command B on the left and Combat Command A on the right, passing through the 45^th Division. They clear Campoleone Station by noon, but is slowed beyond there by firm opposition and they suffer heavy tank losses. The 45^th Division’s 180^th Infantry follows Combat Command B northward, while the 179^th pushes north in the region east of the Albano Road. The 157^th Infantry is withdrawn into reserve. The 36^th Division continues a holding action below Velletri. The enemy continues effective defense of the Lanuvio area and inflicts heavy casualties on the 34^th Division. II Corps takes over the sector east of Frascati between VI Corps and the British Eighth Army, and assumes command of the 3^rd Division. The 337^th Infantry, of the 85^th Division, closes in on the Rocca Massima-Giulianello area. In the IV Corps area, relief of the 88^th Division is begun by the French Expeditionary Force (FEC). The 349^th Infantry is relieved and departs for the Anzio beachhead.

In the FEC area, the 2^nd Moroccan Division takes over the Siserno hill mass from the 4^th Mountain Division and repels an enemy attack, aimed at keeping the Palombara Pass open until their withdrawal is completed.

In the British Eighth Army area, Canadian I Corps begins a drive on Frosinone, from Ceprano, and takes Pofi. XIII Corps finds Arce undefended, and establishes a bridgehead across the upper Liri River. X Corps takes over the inactive zone of Polish 2 Corps, which is to relieve X Corps in the Adriatic coastal sector.

China – Burma – India Theater

General Chennault warns of serious a Japanese threat to objectives in east China and asks that 14^th Air Force supplies be increased so that enemy can be stopped.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

Seven B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, pound areas along the Burma Road. Three bomb the town of Wanling, Burma, and two attack a convoy off Hainan Island, China, sinking a 250 foot freighter. In China, a group of 26 P-40s and P-38s attack troops at Lushan, pound barracks and demolish seven trucks at Yuanchu, bomb and strafe the general area at Nanchang and destroy several buildings along the Hsiang River north of Changsha.

The 14^th Air Force moves the 19^th Liaison Squadron, with L-1s and L-5s, which is attached to Y Force, from Ondal, India, to Kunming.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, the 10^th Air Force dispatches 27 B-25s and over 40 fighter-bombers to attack troops and positions at Bhamo and Mohnyin, the railroad at Mogaung and warehouses at Sahmaw.

On the Salween front, the supply situation of the Chinese improves as a footbridge is repaired.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s pound gun positions, defense areas and troops, on Biak Island. Other B-24s pound airfields on the mainland, at Timoeka and Babo. Meanwhile, A-20s, B-25s and P-47s, along with RAAF aircraft and a few B-24s from the Biak strike, saturate the Wewak area with continuous air strikes, and, in the Wakde Island-Sarmi battle zone, B-25s and P-40s hit forces in the Mount Saskin area. Elsewhere, B-24s of the Thirteenth Air Task Force bomb Woleai Atoll and other nearby islands in the Caroline Islands.

On Biak Island, the first tank battle of the Southwest Pacific Area is fought, as the Japanese attempt to dislodge the 2^nd Battalion, of the 162^nd Infantry, from positions west of Parai. The enemy cuts the road east of Parai, but a counterattack restores the situation. Since opposition cannot be neutralized, the 162^nd Infantry withdraws by land and sea, with the 2^nd and 3^rd Battalions going to Bosnek and Mandom and the rest of Regimental Combat Team 162 establishing a small defense perimeter near Ibdi. The Japanese move back into the Parai Defile, but achieve this success at the cost of more than 500 dead. General Krueger orders two battalions of the 163^rd Infantry to Biak, although the Toem-Arare beachhead on the mainland is still threatened. In the Wakde-Sarmi area, General Patrick directs the 158^th Infantry to send one battalion back across the Tor River. The 1st Battalion is replaced by the 3^rd and returns to relieve the 3^rd Battalion , of the 163^rd Infantry, at Arare.

South Pacific Area

On New Britain Island, Air Command Solomons sends a force of almost 100 B-25s, P-38s, P-39s and a variety of US Navy aircraft to attack the Rabaul area. Army aircraft concentrate on the Nordup supply area and the others concentrate on Hospital Point anti-aircraft positions. On Bougainville Island, 24 P-39s and 16 P-40s blast occupied areas west of Tinputs Harbor and at Arigua Plantation.

Major General James Moore, USMC, takes over as Commander Air Solomons COMAIRSOLS).

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force operations are restricted to photo missions over Wotje, Mille, and Jaluit atolls.

North Pacific Area

At dawn two B-25s, from the 11^th Air Force, photograph and bomb Shimushu and Matsuwa Islands. During the early afternoon two more B-25s escorted by four P-38s strafe, bomb and sink a patrol boat in the Kurile Islands. Later, four other B-25s unsuccessfully attack two vessels off Shimushu.

1,138 · May 30, 2014

Tuesday, May 30, 1944

Washington, D.C.

All Fighter-Bomber Groups and Fighter-Bomber Squadrons are redesignated Fighter Groups and Fighter Squadrons, by the headquarters of the US Army Air Force.

European Theater

Throughout England, the loading of assault forces for Operation OVERLORD, the invasion of the European continent, begins.

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 380 – 928 bombers and 672 fighters are dispatched to hit aircraft industry targets in Germany and marshalling yards in France and Belgium, with more aircraft attacking bridges in France:

· 268 B-17s are dispatched to attack aviation industry targets at Dessau, Halberstadt and Oschersleben.

· 369 B-24s are dispatched to hit aviation depots at Oldenburg, Rotenburg and Zwischenahn.

· 91 B-24s hit the airfields at Munster/Handorf and Diepholz.

· 126 B-17s hit the marshalling yards at Reims and Troyes, in France.

· 40 B-17s hit the Brussels/Schaerbeck marshalling yard, in Belgium.

· 84 B-17s hit V-weapon sites in the Pas de Calais, France.

· 100 P-47s are dispatched to bomb four rail bridges in northwestern France, hitting the Longueil bridge, the Beaumont-sur-Oise bridge, the Canly-le-Jouque bridge and the Creil bridge.

Fighter escort for the bombers is provided by 186 P-38s, 184 P-47s and 302 P-51s, which are joined by 637 more fighters from the 9^th Air Force. The fighters and bombers shoot down 58 enemy aircraft and destroy another seven on the ground. Nine B-17s, three B-24s, eight P-51s, one P-47 and three fighters from the 9^th Air Force are lost, with 130 men listed as killed or missing.

During the night, the RAF sends 50 Lancasters and four Mosquitos to attack a coastal gun position at Boulogne. Meanwhile, 30 Mosquitos are sent Leverkusen, 12 Stirlings lay mines off the Dutch and French coasts, and 11 Stirlings fly resistance operations.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force dispatches over 320 B-26s to attack airfields at Denain/Prouvy and Mantes/Limay, and highway bridges at Meulan and Rouen, all in France. Elsewhere, nearly 400 P-47s dive-bomb targets in northwest Europe.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force B-26s and B-25s destroy or damage 10 bridges, bridge approaches and viaducts which affect supply routes to the battlefronts across central Italy. Light bombers and fighter-bombers blast motor transports and gun positions in the battle area and hit targets in and around towns in the area, including Guidonia, Ariccia, Alatri and Veroli. Meanwhile, C-47s evacuate wounded from Nettuno.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force sends nearly 500 bombers to attack targets in Austria, and Yugoslavia. B-17s attack the marshalling yard at Zagreb, Yugoslavia, while B-24s attack aircraft factories at Wels, Ebreichadorf, Pottendorf, Neudorfl and Neunkirchen, Austria. P-38s and P-51s provide escort and many of the fighters strafe targets of opportunity in areas around Zut, Brod, Susak, Bihac, Medak, and along the Karlovac-Livno Road, in Yugoslavia.

Italy Campaign

In US Fifth Army’s VI Corps area, the enemy continues stubborn defense of Albano, Velletri, and Lanuvio. Combat Command B, of the 1^st Armored Division, reaches Campoleone Creek and is reinforced by the 157^th Infantry. The 135^th Infantry, of the 34^th Division, reduces a small enemy position southwest of Lanuvio. Meanwhile, the 36^th Division continues a holding action below Velletri and, during the night, attacks toward Monte Artemisio. US II Corps continues a movement to a new zone.

In the French Expetitionary Force (FEC) area, elements of the 3^rd Moroccan Division move into Palombara Pass.

In the British Eighth Army area, the Canadian I Corps continues toward Frosinone and makes contact with the French at Ceccano.

During night, the US 85^th Division relieves elements of the US 3^rd Division, and the 349^th Infantry, of the US 88^th Division, arrives southwest of Cori and is attached to the US 85^th Division. At midnight, the British 1^st Division is attached to US VI Corps.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 48 fighters, from the 14^th Air Force, support ground forces in the Mamien Pass-Watien-Chiangtso area. 31supply aircraft drop food and ammunition to friendly forces in the Mamien Pass area, while 13 B-25s damage the Wan Pa-Hsa bridge, in Burma, and bomb Lungling, destroying six warehouses and start several big fires. Meanwhile, eight P-51s hit railroad targets of opportunity on sweeps from Peking, Chengting, Pingting, Linfen and Puchou. 16 P-38s and P-51s dive-bomb installations at the west end of the Nanchang bridge, causing much damage, while five B-25s and 12 P-40s strafe troops, supplies, and occupied strongpoints at Loyang and at several locations along the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers.

Japanese air strikes on the airfields at Hengyang and Liangshan destroy four US Army aircraft, damage several others, and blow up a fuel dump.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends nine B-25s to attack the railroad between Namma and Hopin, Burma, while more B-25s and fighter-bombers fly 100 sorties against railroad targets, hitting tracks, rolling stock, stations, and bridges in the vicinities of Mogaung, Myitkyina, Hopin and Loilaw. Meanwhile, the Imphal-Tiddim road is bombed by three B-24s.

General Boatner replaces Colonel John McCammon as head of Myitkyina Task Force.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-25s hit enemy positions as fighting on Biak Island slacks temporarily. Other B-25s bomb the airfield and nearby anti-aircraft guns and fuel at Timoeka, while B-24s and A-20s hit Japen Island. In the Wakde Island-Sarmi battle area, B-25s bomb and strafe the shoreline from the northwest of Sawar to Sarmi Point. The Wewak area is again blasted by a group of over 70 A-20s, B-24s and B-25s, along with RAAF aircraft. Elsewhere, Thirteenth Air Task Force B-24s hit Truk, Woleai and Puluwat atoll.

On Biak Island, the 186^th Infantry meets few enemy troops as it patrols from the Parai Defile eastward. 162^nd Infantry patrols evoke opposition from the Japanese in a pocket, on the ridge northwest of Ibdi. In the Wakde-Sarmi area, the 158^th Infantry organizes a new defense line along the Tirfoam River. The 1^st and 3^rd Battalions, of the 163^rd Infantry, leave for Biak.

The Japanese attack the Arare perimeter after nightfall.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons dispatches 23 B-25s to bomb personnel areas northeast of Tobera, while a group of over 40 P-38s, P-40s and P-39s bomb a supply dump near Ratawul, on New Britain Island. On Bougainville island, 33 P-39s and eight P-40s demolish bridges at Kirinani and over the Siaibai River, damaging a log ramp over the Miwo River and hitting a road between the Purlata River and Kiaraba. The fighter-bombers also attack the Buka runway, on Buka Island, the Chabai barge anchorage and the Soraken supply area.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Engebi Island, bomb Ponape Island, which is also hit by B-24s returning from the shuttle base on Los Negros Island. Elsewhere, two forces of B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, strike Truk Atoll and Wake Island.

North Pacific Area

One B-25 and two P-38s, from the 11^th Air Force, fly guardship cover.

1,138 · May 31, 2014

Wednesday, May 31, 1944

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 382 – 1,029 bombers and 682 fighters attack marshalling yards and aircraft industry targets in Germany and rail targets in France and Belgium;

· 246 B-17s hit the Luxeuil marshalling yard, in France, the Florennes/ Juzaine Airfield and the Namur marshalling yard, in Belgium, the Gilze- Rijen Airfield and the Roosendaal marshalling yard, in the Netherlands.

· 287 B-17s are dispatched to hit marshalling yards in Germany, at Osnabruck, Schwerte, Oeske and Hamm.

· 491 B-24s are dispatched to hit rail targets in France and Belgium but are recalled due to clouds.

· 5 B-24s hit rail bridges at Beaumont-sur-Oise and bridges at Melun, in France. This raid uses the Azon radio-controlled bombs, which prove unsuccessfull against the bridges.

Escort is provided by 193 P-38s, 180 P-47s, 309 P-51s and 674 fighters from the 9^th Air Force. One B-17, one P-47 and two P-51s are lost, with 14 men listed as killed or missing.

Two 8^th Air Force fighter-bomber missions hit German airfields with 500 pound and 100 pound bombs. 81 P-47s hit the Gutersloh Airfield, and 35 P-38s attack the Rehein/Hopsten Airfield using DROOPSNOOT methods. Five Luftwaffe aircraft are destroyed in combat and another five destroyed on the ground.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 125 Lancasters, 86 Halifaxes, and eight Mosquitos to attack the railway yards at Trappes, to the west of Paris. Meanwhile, 109 Halifaxes, 16 Lancasters, and four Mosquitos bomb a coastal radio transmitting station at Au Fèvre, destroying four of the six antenna masts, and 60 Lancasters, 51 Halifaxes, and four Mosquitos bomb a radio jamming station at Mont Couple which is “rendered completely unserviceable.” In other action, 111 Lancasters and four Mosquitos attack the railway yards at Tergnier, 82 Lancasters and four Mosquitos attack and destroy a railway junction at Saumur, and 68 Lancasters are sent to a coastal gun battery at Maisy but find it covered by clouds and only six aircraft bombed. 14 aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, 16 fly Serrate patrols and nine fly Intruder patrols, 28 other aircraft lay mines off the Dutch and French coasts, and nine aircraft fly resistance operations. For the night, six Lancasters, two Halifaxes, one Hudson, one Stirling and one Mosquito are lost.

22 B-24s are dispatched on nighttime CARPETBAGGER missions over France.

12 RAF aircraft fly nighttime training sorties.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends about 200 B-26s to bomb lock and highway bridges at Bennecourt, Courcelles-sur-Seine and Rouen, in France.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers give close support to ground forces in fierce fighting south of Rome, hitting numerous troop concentrations, roads and town areas, including points in or near Albano Laziale, Genzano di Roma, Ariccia, Frascati, Civitella Roveta, Subiaco, Cave, Nettuno and Grottaferrata. Meanwhile, A-20s and fighter-bombers blast targets in the same general area, hitting troops, bridges, supplies, guns and vehicles at or near Rocca di Papa, Ariccia, Marino, Frascati, Grottaferrata, Lanuvio, Montalto di Castro and Manciano. C-47s evacuate casualties from Anzio.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 480 B-17s and B-24s to bomb oil refineries and communications targets in the Ploesti area, in Rumania. Fighters fly over 200 sorties in support of the mission, but 15 bombers are lost to flak and fighters, with over 40 enemy aircraft shot down.

Italy Campaign

The US Fifth Army orders an offensive for Colli Laziali by VI Corps and II Corps. In the VI Corps area the enemy continues a stout defense of Albano. The 1^st Armored Division is withdrawn to reserve. The 34^th Division is still stalled by stubborn resistance below Lanuvio, but the Germans thin out between Lanuvio and Velletri after nightfall. The 36th Division makes substantial progress on the right flank, with the 142^nd Infantry taking Maschio d’Ariano and positions commanding the Velletri–Nemi Road. The 143^rd moves forward to Monte Artemisio, while the 141^st pushes slowly toward Velletri. II Corps attacks toward the line of departure for the main offensive, scheduled for June 1. The 85^th Division takes over the left half of the II Corps line, leaving the right half to the 3^rd Division. The 85^th then attacks with the 337^th Infantry on the left and 338^th on the right, securing positions on Monte Artemisio, clearing Lariano, and reaching positions across the Velletri-Artena Road. The 88^th Division is attached to II Corps.

The IV Corps sector is taken over by the 4^th Mountain Division, of the Frence Expeditionary Force (FEC), which extends its positions northward in the Lepini Mountains, to Supino and Carpineto.

In the British Eighth Army area, Canadian I Corps finds Frosinone undefended, and X Corps seizes Sora.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends a group of 51 P-51 s and P-40s to attack shipping along the Yangtze River. They score direct hits on five small ships. Meanwhile, a group of 16 P-51s and P-40s bomb Kweiyi and Yoyang and installations on the river to the south, while 10 P-38s bomb the bridge and warehouse area at Nanchang, and 12 P40s bomb Pingkiang. In other action, four B-25s bomb the Hankow Airfield, Pailochi, and a motor convoy at Yoyang, while six other B-25s knock out the bridge at Kengluang, 13 B-24s pound the town of Lungling, causing big fires. Elsewhere, 14 B-24s, supported by P-40s blast the warehouse area at Lashio, Burma., and four P-40s destroy several aircraft during strafing runs on the Linfen and Hohsien airfields.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 12 B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, hit the Tiddim Road, and a group of over 130 B-25s, A-36s, P-51s, and P-40s hit troops, defensive positions, artillery emplacements, boats, railroad facilities, and villages in the Myitkyina- Mogaung area, buildings at Tahona, river boats at Lonkin and Kamaing, docks at Bhamo, railroad cars at Namti, and positions northwest of Mohnyin. Meanwhile, 21other B-25s and fighter-bombers pound the Bhamo town area and airfield, while 10 B-24s bomb Ye-u, demolishing several buildings.

On the Salween Front, the Chinese 53^rd Army’s supplies are replenished by the 27^th Troop Carrier Squadron.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-25s and A-20s hit the Babo area, bomb the airfield near the Ransiki River, cover the beachhead on Biak Island and attack fishing boats on the shore of Japen Island. Elsewhere, P-47s and B-25s pound villages, barges, and gun positions in the Wakde Island-Sarmi battle area.

On Biak Island, Task Force HURRICANE continues patrolling and regroups in preparation for renewing its attack. The 1^st and 3^rd Battalions, of the 163^rd Infantry arrive. In the Wakde-Sarmi area, General Patrick reduces the defense perimeter of Task Force TORNADO. The main position is between the Tor River and Tementoe, but the bridgehead is retained across the Tor. In the Hollandia-Aitape area, Company G, of the 127^th Infantry relieves Nyaparake Force. The 1^st Battalion, of the 126^th Infantry, begins an offensive from the East Sector to drive the enemy back across the Drindarai, advancing against light resistance through Yakamul, to Parakovio.

The Japanese become aggressive in the 127^th Infantry sector along the Driniumor and begin crossing the river.

South Pacific Area

Air Command Solomons dispatches 12 P-38s to bomb the Vulcan Crater barge hideout, on New Britain Island. Elsewhere, 22 P-39s and 12 P-40s blast supply dumps near Ratawul, 33 B-25s pound Rabaul truck concentrations, wharf area, and northeast section of town. Meanwhile, five B-25s bomb targets of opportunity along the northwestern coast of New Ireland Island. On Bougainville Island, P-39s bomb several targets, including Soraken, Arigua, and several barges and vehicles.

North Pacific Area

During the morning, two B-25s and four P-38s, of the 11^th Air Force, fly guardship cover. Later, a bomber flies a weather mission while another reconnoiters and hits Buroton Bay, in the Kurile Islands.

1,138 · June 1, 2014

Thursday, June 1, 1944

Washington, D.C.

The Army Air Force Redistribution Center, with headquarters at Atlantic City, New Jersey, is redesignated Army Air Force Personnel Distribution Command.

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

During the night, the RAF sends 101 Halifaxes and eight Pathfinder Mosquitos to attack the main German radio-listening station at Ferme d'Urville, near the coast chosen for the invasion, but cloud and haze prevented accurate bombing. Meanwhile, 58 Lancasters attack a railway junction at Saumur. Photographic reconnaissance shows “severe damage to junction, main lines torn up.” In other action, six Mosquitos attack the port of Aarhus, in Denmark, three fly Serrate patrols, 18 aircraft lay mines in the Kattegat and off Dunkirk, and 40 aircraft fly resistance operations. One Halifax on resistance operations is lost.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

The 9^th Air Force sends around 100 B-26s to bomb airfields and coastal defense batteries from the Belgian border to the Cherbourg Peninsula.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium, light and fighter-bombers continue support of ground troops, striking concentrations, bivouac areas, motor transport, railways and roads, bridges, trains and other targets. Meanwhile, fighters fly sweeps over the battle areas, escort medium bombers and carry out sweeps along the east coast.

The 12^th Air Force moves the 345^th Fighter Squadron, with P-39s, from Sardinia, to Pomigliano, Italy.

Italy Campaign

The US Fifth Army opens its offensive to destroy the German Fourteenth Army. In the VI Corps area, British and US troops continue futile efforts to break through to Albano and block escape of enemy to the east. The British 1^st Division, on the extreme left, is unable to advance. The US 45^th Division makes limited progress. The US 34^th Division gains a little ground below Lanuvio. The 141^st Infantry, of the US 36^th Division, takes Velletri after a hard battle. Meanwhile, the 142^nd Infantry consolidates its positions on Monte Artemisio, and the 143^rd, relieved of Maschio d’Ariano by the 337^th Infantry, of the US 85^th Division, advances southwest along the ridge. II Corps opens the final offensive for Rome, aiming first at Highway 6 and Cave road. On the left flank, the 85^th Division, with the 337^th Infantry on the left and the 338^th on the right, attacks toward Monte Ceraso against strong resistance. The 349^th Infantry, of the 88^th Division, is committed to the right, where a gap is developing, and drives to the heights north of the railroad. On the right flank of II Corps, the 3^rd Division attacks northward in the Valmontone area. The 30^th Infantry and Task Force Howze, reinforced by elements of the 7^th Infantry, make slow progress on the left. On the right, the 15^th Infantry pushes to Highway 6, and the 1^st Special Service Force takes the high ground southeast of Valmontone. The 91^st Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron screens the right flank ahead of the 3^rd Division. IV Corps is officially withdrawn from the line at 1400 hours.

In the British Eighth Army area, the Canadian I Corps, moving up Route 6 toward Rome, reaches Ferentino.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 25 fighter-bombers to attack the Chenghsien railroad yards, in China. Elsewhere, 18 fighter-bombers bomb docks, a gunboat, and barracks in the Chiuchiang area, and strafe about 300 troops at Sanyenchiao.

The 14^th Air Force moves the 91^st Fighter Squadron, flying P-47s, from India, to China.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, the 10^th Air Force sends seven B-25s to attack bridges at Songon and Bongyaung, and the Imphal, India-Tiddim road. Meanwhile, over 20 others fly ammunition into the Imphal area. Elsewhere, 19 P-40s hit targets in the Myitkyina area.

On the ground in Burma, the Chinese 22^nd Division cuts the Kamaing Road in the Mogaung Valley, just southeast of Nanyaseik, above Kamaing. With the Chinese 38^th Division holding the Seton block below Kamaing, the Kamaing garrison is in grave danger, but monsoon rainfall is slowing operations. Supplies are dangerously low, Americans having only enough food for one day and the Chinese for two days. The Chinese attack makes little progress. The US 236^th Engineer Battalion pushes toward Namkwi with the dual purpose of clearing that region and of gaining combat experience. The attack fails, although elements succeed in reaching the objective.

On the Salween front, elements of the Chinese 2^nd Reserve and the 36^th Divisions, of the Chinese 54^th Army, reach the Shweli Valley, from the Tatangtzu Pass, and join the 593^rd Regiment, of the Chinese 198^th Division, from the Mamien Pass. Two regiments of the 9^th Division, of the Chinese 2^nd Army, cross the Salween, while the 76^th Division, of the Chinese 2^nd Army, patrols toward the Burma Road.

The Japanese are drawing off forces from the upper Shweli Valley, to strengthen the Lung-ling area to the south.

US reinforcements are being rushed to Myitkyina.

Two engineer battalions, GALAHAD replacements, and GALAHAD evacuees have arrived by air between May 26 and June 1.

Southwest Pacific Area

5^th Air Force B-24s bomb Amboina, on Ambon Island, and Kai Island, in the Moluccas Islands, and Boeroe Island, in the Sunda Islands. In New Guinea, B-25s and A-20s attack targets of opportunity in the Kaukenau area, at Ransiki and on Noemfoor and Biak Islands. Meanwhile, A-20s, B-25s and P-39s hit villages, bivouac, and other targets of opportunity in the coastal area from Wakde Island to Hollandia, and the bombing of the Wewak-Hansa Bay coast continues.

On Biak, Task Force HURRICANE begins an offensive to expand their perimeter. While the 163^rd Infantry holds the beachhead, the 186^th Infantry, with supporting tanks and artillery, moves north to the surveyed airstrip on the inland plateau, and repels strong enemy attacks from the north and south. Meanwhile, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 162^nd Infantry, begins the laborious trek northward in an effort to make contact with 186^th Infantry on the inland plateau, while the rest of the regiment probes westward from Ibdi. The Japanese seize a water hole in coastal sector and block the main coastal road.

Naval and engineer units explore three islands of the Paidado group: Mios Woendi, Aoeki, and Owi.

In the Aitape area, of Hollandia, ALAMO Force gives General Patrick permission to keep the rest of the 163^rd Infantry until the arrival of a 6^th Division detachment. In the Task Force PERSECUTION sector, the Japanese force the 1^st Battalion, of the 126^th Infantry, to return to Yakamul, where it will maintain base from which the Harech River line can be explored inland, from the coast.

South Pacific Area

In the Bismarck Archipelago, nine B-25s, from the 13^th Air Force, bomb Matupi Island and on New Britain Island, three hit the southeast part of Rabaul and 12 others pound personnel and the supply area northeast of Tobera. Meanwhile, a group of over 30 P-38s and P-40s hit Talili Bay supply areas, and five medium bombers hit a barge hideout and buildings on Duke of York Island. In the Solomon Islands, over 30 P-39s attack Tonolai, Arigua and Arawa, on Bougainville Island, and barges at Sohano Island.

The XIII Bomber Command moves from Guadalcanal Island, in the Solomon Islands, to Los Negros Island, in the Admiralty Islands.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-25s, from Eniwetok Atoll, in the Marshall Islands, hit Ponape Island, in the Caroline Islands.

North Pacific Area

The 11^th Air Force sends two B-24s, from Shemya Island, to photograph and bomb installations at Buroton Bay, in the Kurile Islands. Targets include a suspected seaplane base and the harbor area. Meanwhile, two B-25s and four P-38s take off for a guardship cover mission, but three aircraft abort with engine trouble, and two other B-25s fly an antishipping sweep, but find no targets.

June 1, 2014

June 1, 1944

Exploiting recent successes, the Allies drive towards Rome.

Russian counter-attacks push the Germans back on the Eastern Front.

A coded message (part of a poem by Verlaine) is sent to the French resistance, warning the invasion is imminent.

1,138 · June 2, 2014

Friday, June 2, 1944

Washington, D.C.

The Combined Chiefs of Staff issue a new directive to the Southeast Asia Command (SEAC), which is a compromise between British and US positions. The British view that the air link to China should be developed in order to support operations in the Pacific is accepted. The ground operations are to be pressed only insofar as they are of assistance to the build-up of Hump tonnage. The Capture of the Myitkyina area, of north Burma, and the construction of pipelines to China are to be integral parts of the main operation.

European Theater

A special conference for ground liaison officers is held by 21^st Army Group officers who present a detailed exposition of the plan for the landings in Normandy.

European Theater, Strategic (POINTBLANK)

The role of the heavy bombers from June 2 through June 5, in preparation for the invasion of Normandy on June 6, includes the continuation of attacks against transportation and airfield targets in northern France. It also includes Operation COVER, the implementation of a series of blows against coastal defenses, mainly located in the Pas de Calais coastal area, to deceive the enemy as to the sector to be invaded.

8^th Air Force Mission 384 – In the morning, 633 B-17s and 293 B-24s hit V-weapon sites in the Pas de Calais area, with two men listed as killed or missing.

8^th Air Force Mission 385 – In the afternoon, 242 B-17s are dispatched to railroad targets in the Paris area, the Conches Airfield, the Beaumont-sur-Oise Airfield and the Caen/Carpiquet Airfield. 77 B-24s are dispatched to the Bretigny Airfield, the Creil Airfield and the Villeneuve Airfield. Two B-17s and five B-24s are lost, with 69 men listed as killed or missing.

8^th Air Force Mission 386 – Seven P-38s are sent to attack the Ostend Bridge, in Belgium, and three B-17s fly weather reconnaissance over the Atlantic.

During the night, the RAF sends:

· 105 Halifaxes, 19 Lancasters, and four Mosquitos to attack the railway yards at Trappes.

· 103 Lancasters and four Mosquitos attack a radar-jamming station at Berneval with great accuracy.

· 136 Lancasters, 119 Halifaxes, and 16 Mosquitos, hit four coastal gun positions.

· 23 Mosquitos are sent to Leverkusen, four go to Laval and three to Lison.

· 16 other aircraft fly radio counter measure sorties.

· Nine aircraft fly Serrate patrols and six fly Intruder patrols.

· 36 aircraft on resistance operations,

· 53 aircraft lay mines from Dunkirk to Brest.

15 Halifaxes, two Lancasters, and one Stirling, and their crews, are lost.

8^th Air Force Mission 387 – During the night, five B-17s drop leaflets on targets in Belgium, and France, and 18 B-24s fly CARPETBAGGER operations.

European Theater, Tactical (OVERLORD)

In France, a force of about 350 B-26s and A-20s, from the 9^th Air Force, bomb NOBALL (V-weapon) targets and coastal defense batteries along the English Channel coast. P-38s and P-47s dive-bomb targets in the area, including V-weapon sites, a fuel dump, railroad junctions and bridges.

Mediterranean Theater, Tactical

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers attack road and rail bridges from north of the battle area, just below Rome, to areas north of Rome. Fighter-bombers continue to blast motor transport, railways, trains, command posts, roads, and bridges in the battle area, having particularly good success against vehicles.

Mediterranean Theater, Strategic

Ther 15^th Air Force begins shuttle-bombing missions between Italy, and the USSR, termed Operation FRANTIC. Under the command of Lieutenant General Ira Eaker, 130 B-17s, escorted by 70 P-51s, bomb the marshalling yard at Debreczen, Hungary, and land in the Soviet Union. The B-17s land at Poltava and Mirgorod, and the P-51s land at Piryatin. One B-17 is lost over the target. 27 other B-17s, forced off course en route to the marshalling yard at Oradea, Rumania, also hit Debreczen. Nearly 400 other B-24s attack marshalling yards at Szeged, Miskolc and Szolnok, in Hungary, and Simeria, in Rumania. P-51s and P-38s provide escort.

Italy Campaign

Headquarters, Allied Armies in Italy, temporarily alters the interarmy boundary to permit the US Fifth Army greater freedom of movement. In US Fifth Army’s VI Corps area, the enemy, after a stubborn defense during the day, withdraws its main forces during the night. In other activity:

· The 45^th Division makes little progress toward Albano.

· The 168^th Infantry, of the 34^th Division, takes Villa Crocetta and crosses Genaro Hill to reach the railroad. During the night, 168^th Infantry patrols enter Lanuvio.

· The 142^nd and 143^rd Regiments, of the 36^th Division, advance abreast on the right flank of VI Corps, seizing the hills just east of Monte Cavo, and the hills east of Tano Hill.

· The 141^st Infantry reaches Highway 7 before dawn and drives west along it until relieved by 157^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, which has moved from left flank of VI Corps to the Velletri area, to reinforce the 36^th Division. The 157^th Infantry continues west along the highway to positions 2½ miles west of Velletri. Regimental Combet Team 361, of the 91^st Division, closes at Velletri and is attached to the 36^th Division, but is not committed to action before the fall of Rome. At this point, II Corps gains its initial objective and the enemy begins to withdraw.

· The 85^th Division, having regrouped, attacks with the 339^th Infantry on the left, the 337^th Infantry in the center, and 338^th Infantry on the right. The 339^th, which is to finish clearing Maschio d’Ariano, takes Monte Fiore. The 337^th seizes Monte Ceraso and pushes almost to Highway 6. The 1^st Battalion, of the 338^th, reaches Highway 6 at San Cesareo.

· The 88^th Division’s 351^st Infantry overruns San Cesareo and cuts Highway 6, while the 349^th Infantry captures Gardella Hill. On the left flank, of the 3^rd Division, Task Force Howze and the 7^th Infantry drive to Labico. The 7^th Infantry continues toward the Palestrina area.

· The 30^th Infantry pushes through Valmontone, which the enemy has abandoned, to positions near Cave.

· The 15^th Infantry takes over the 1^st Special Service Force task of guarding the right flank, while the 1^st Special Service Force, under II Corps control, drives down Highway 6 and gains contact with the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) east of Colle Ferro at 1530 hours.

In the French Expeditionary Force (FEC) area, the Lepini Mountains have been cleared of stragglers by the 3^rd Algerian and 2^nd Moroccan Divisions.

In the British Eighth Army area, XIII Corps seizes Alatri.

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends a group of more than 80 P-40s and P-51s to attack troops and vehicles at Tungcheng and Chungyang, China, and strafe a concentration of about 75 sampans on Tungting Lake.

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

10^th Air Force B-25s continue to fly ammunition into the Imphal area, in India. 12 B-24s en route to Yenangyaung, Burma, fail to hit the primary target, but unload against alternate targets in the area.

In Burma, a formal siege of Myitkyina begins, with the Chinese tunneling toward the enemy.

On the Salween front, the Chinese 36^th Division takes Kaitou village and surrounds Chiaotou in Shweli Valley.

In China, the Japanese offensive in Honan draws to a close, with the enemy having secured his objectives at a light cost.

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, 5^th Air Force B-25s bomb the Kaukenau-Timoeka area, while B-24s bomb positions north of the Mokmer Airfield. Meanwhile, B-24s and B-25s hit bivouacs northeast of the Sawar Aairfield and near the Wiske River and bomb roads along the west bank of the Orai River. Elsewhere, B-24s, P-39s, and RAAF airplanes hit the Wewak area.

Thirteenth Air Task Force B-24s bomb Dublon Island, in the Truk Atoll.

On Biak, the 186^th Infantry attacks west along the inland plateau, toward the airfields. Against sporadic, but persistent opposition, the reach positions almost abreast those of 162^nd Infantry, in the Ibdi area. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 162^nd Infantry, joins the 186^th Infantry and is attached to it. In the coastal sector, the 162^nd Infantry recovers the water hole, reduces the roadblock, and blocks the trail leading inland.

Company A, of the 163^rd Infantry, occupies Owi and Mios Woendi Islands.

In the Aitape area, of Hollandia, Task Force PERSECUTION’s 1^st Battalion, of the 126^th Infantry, is formed into two forces: Herrick Force is to hold Yakamul, and Bailey Force is to patrol southward from Yakamul, along the Harech.

South Pacific Area

On New Britain Island, Air Command Solomons sends 24 B-24s to attack the Nordup area and a group of 48 P-38s, P-39s, and P-40s to attack the Vunakanau area. Meanwhile, over 30 P-39s attack the airfield at Buka, on Buka Island, and supplies in the Kara-Kahili area, of Bougainville Island.

Central Pacific Area

In the Gilbert Islands, 7^th Air Force B-25s, based on Makin Island, strike Nauru Island.

North Pacific Area

In the Kurile Islands, two B-24s, from the 11^th Air Force, finding Shimushiru Island overcast, bomb and photograph Matsuwa Island at dawn.

WWII - 70 Years Ago

Recommended Posts

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

55rab

Link to comment

Share on other sites

dschneck

Link to comment

Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

Create an account

Sign in