WWII - 70 Years Ago

[dschneck]

Tuesday, August 8,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 530 – 414 B-24s and 265 fighters are dispatched to attack airfields and V-weapon sites in France.

 

The RAF sends 148 Halifaxes, 49 Lancasters, and five Mosquitos to attack an oil-storage dump at Forêt De Chantilly, and another group of 58 Halifaxes and 20 Mosquitos attack four launching sites. Two Halifax are lost, with their crews.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 531 – 681 B-17s and 100 P-51s are dispatched to bomb enemy troop concentrations and strongpoints south of Caen. Elsewhere, 50 P-51s escort RAF Coastal Command Beaufighters on a convoy strike in Norway, losing three aircraft, with all three pilots listed as missing in action. In other action, a force of 175 P-38s, P-47s and P- 51s fly a fighter-bomber mission against railroad north and west of Dijon. Three P-47s, three P-51s and one P-38 are lost, with five pilots listed as missing.

 

Operation FRANTIC shuttle missions continue as 78 B-17s with 55 P-51s escort, leave bases in the USSR to hit airfields at Bizau and Zlistea, in Rumania. No Luftwaffe fighters are encountered during the mission and the force flies to Italy.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 170 Lancasters and 10 Mosquitos to attack depots and storage dumps at Aire sur Lys and the Forêt de Lucheux.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of 406 B-26s and A- 20s to bomb a rail embankment and bridges at eight locations in northern and western France.

 

In the British Second Army area, XXX Corps makes limited progress toward Condé-sur- Noireau. XXII Corps continues to hold the bridgehead east of the Orne, but efforts to thrust south along its east bank, toward Thury-Harcourt, in conjunction with a drive down west bank, fail because of determined enemy counterattacks.

 

In Canadian First Army’s II Corps area, the Canadian 2^nd Division seizes Fontenay-le-Marmion and Requancourt. The 51^st Division overruns Garcelles-Secqueville. At 1355 hours, following air preparation, the Canadian 4^th Armoured Division, on the right, and Polish 1^st Armored Division, on the left, pass through the infantry to exploit the area to the south toward Falaise. They are soon met with strong opposition from the enemy’s main line of resistance.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, an ultimatum calling for surrender of Brest is ignored. The 6^th Armored Division prepares for an all-out assault on the city, scheduled for August 9, until the enemy threat to the rear forces a change in plans. The enemy division is found to be moving toward Brest via Plouvien. XV Corps envelops and overruns Le Mans and crosses the Sarthe River. The 79^th Division enters Le Mans. In XX Corps area, the 80^th Division, of XX Corps, is to take over the Le Mans bridgehead. Meanwhile, the 5^th Division invests Angers and Nantes.

 

In US First Army’s VII Corps area, the enemy continues efforts to deepen their penetration of US lines, without avail. 30^th Division elements are still isolated near Mortain. XIX Corps makes small gains in the Gathemo–Vire region.

 

General Montgomery orders US forces to drive almost due north toward Alençon, as quickly as possible, in order to make a short envelopment of the enemy in the Falaise–Mortain area, while the broad envelopment toward the Seine is in progress.

 

Lieutenant General Hoyt Vandenberg assumes command of the 9^th Air Force.

 

Mediterranean Theater

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

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack targets in the Po River Valley and the Rhone Valley, in France. Meanwhile, A-20s hit a storage dump and the nearby town of Savigliano, while fighter-bombers hit a barge in the harbor at San Stefano al Mare, a pontoon bridge and railroad bridges nearby, also attacking the Mantua causeway and nearby bridges, scoring many hits and destroying several vehicles.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends six B-25s and seven P-40s to bomb a storage area in Hengshan, China.

 

On the ground, the Japanese complete the capture of Hengyang. This has far-reaching effects on Chinese politics.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 10^th Air Force B-25s are weathered out of their primary target, the town of Shwekyina. They hit alternate targets, destroying the Meza bridge and damaging three others, and bombing railroad tracks at several points between Naba and Meza.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb Yap Island and Gagil-Tomil Island, in the Caroline Islands, concentrating on airstrips, and airfields at Galela and Lolobata, on Halmahera Island. In New Guinea, B-24s hit the Babo Airfield and the towns of Urarom and Manokwari. A-20s bomb a radio station near Hollandia and hit troop concentrations in the Musu area, while fighter-bombers bomb bridges and buildings at Boram, troops at But, and guns at Dagua.

 

In the Aitape area, most of TED Force reaches the Driniumor River near Afua.

 

Central Pacific Area 7^th Air Force

B-25s, based on Saipan Island, bomb Guam Island, where effective resistance ends. B-25s, from the Marshall Islands, hit Ponape Island, while B-24s bomb Truk Atoll.

 

On Guam, effective enemy resistance comes to an end. The 77^th Division clears Mt. Santa Rosa and virtually all of its sector.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, August 9,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 533 – 824 bombers and 675 fighters are dispatched to aircraft and tank factories, airfields and fuel depots in southeastern Germany. Weather deteriorated enroute and many bombers were recalled when confronted with a front rising to 28,000 feet. Most units attack targets of opportunity, with only 25 bombers hitting their primary target of Sindelfingen.

 

The RAF sends 114 Halifaxes, 35 Mosquitos, and 23 Lancasters to attack seven launching sites. Meanwhile, 147 Halifaxes, eight Lancasters, and five Mosquitos hit a fuel-storage dump at Forêt De Mormal. At La Pallice, 17 Lancasters and one Mosquito attack an oil depot and 12 Lancasters and one Mosquito attack the U-boat pens.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 535 – Four B-17s fly a Micro H test mission against the Aubigny, France airstrip. Fighter escort is provided by 16 P-38s.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 171 Lancasters, 115 Halifaxes, and 25 Mosquitos to attack four launching sites and the Fort-d'Englos storage site. Meanwhile, 176 Lancasters and 14 Mosquitos successfully attack an oil storage dump at Forêt De Chatellerault.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 536 – During the night, six B-17s drop leaflets in France and the Netherlands. In other action, 116 P-47s, escorted by 40 P-51s, are dispatched on fighter-bomber missions against communications in France.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends close to 400 B-26s and A-20s to attack an ammunition dump in Foret de Blois, shipping at Brest, and other targets, including rail bridges at 10 locations in northern and western France.

 

In Canadian First Army area, II Corps continues south astride the Caen–Falaise road.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division, leaving a small force to contain Brest, moves north to meet the threat to its rear and virtually destroys an enemy division in the Plouvien area. XV Corps mops up Le Mans and swings north toward Alençon, with the 5^th Armored Division on the right and the French 2^nd Armored Division on the left, followed by infantry units. In the XX Corps area, the 5^th Division closes in on Angers.

 

The US First Army orders a turn to the northeast, toward Argentan, to meet the British working southward toward Falaise, to trap the enemy in the Vire–Mortain–Domfront–Ger region. In the VII Corps area, an enemy counteroffensive toward Avranches loses its momentum but heavy fighting continues. In the XIX Corps area, the 28^th Division is unable to advance in the Gathemo region, but the 29^th Division moves slowly forward below Vire. V Corps orders the 2^nd Division, whose mission is still primarily defensive, to move one reinforced regiment southeast.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends 400 bombers, with fighter escort, to hit targets in Hungary and Yugoslavia.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s hit the railroad at Ventimiglia and B-26s attain excellent results on the Bergamo/Orio al Serio Airfield. Fighter-bombers sink a motor vessel in Imperia harbor and attack railroad facilities in northwestern Italy.

 

In British Eighth Army area, XIII Corps completes clearing region below the Arno River in the Florence area.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends six B-25s to bomb a compound and vehicle shed on the northeast edge of Hengyang, China. Meanwhile, a group of 36 P-40s and P- 51s attack trucks, gun positions, and buildings at several points in the Hengyang-Siangtan area, while a group of 21 P-51s and P-40s knock out a pontoon bridge and hit junks and sampans at Changsha, and attack rivercraft at points along the Yangtze River.

 

On the Salween front, the Japanese raid the Chinese 8^th Army’s artillery positions and supply dumps in the Sung Shan sector, with some success.

 

Marshal Li Chi-shen, President of the Military Advisory Council of Chungking, China, sends a message to the US Consulate in Kweilin, that eastern China war lords are about to form a provisional government in order to effect national unity and defeat the Japanese. He further states that Chiang Kai-shek will be asked to resign. US attitude to this is one of watchful waiting.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 24 fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, support ground forces in the Taungni-Sahmaw area. Several others unsuccessfully attack a bridge north of Hopin and bomb the town of Tagwin.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s blast anti-aircraft positions in three different areas of Yap Island, while other B-24s bomb airfields at Boela, on Ceram Island, and at Liang, on Ambon Island, in the Moluccas Islands. In New Guinea, A-20s hit shipping facilities at Asap Island and bomb the Nabire Airfield. Meanwhile, fighters strafe the villages south of Manokwari, B-25s bomb forces on the northern coast of Waigeo Island, and A-20s and fighter-bombers hit troops at Dagua and near Haur and bomb stores at Cape Moem and machine-guns at Cape Wom.

 

In the Aitape area, General Gill reports to General Hall that resistance along the Driniumor River has ceased.

 

Central Pacific Area 7^th Air Force

On Guam, the 77^th Division and the 3^rd Marine Division are clearing the final resistance. Bypassed enemy groups show a determination to be killed rather than surrender.

[dschneck]

Thursday, August 10,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 537 -- 175 B-24s and 249 fighters are dispatched against fuel dumps and bridges southeast of Paris.

 

45 P-51s, from the 8^th Air Force, in Italy during an Operation FRANTIC mission are dispatched with 15^th Air Force aircraft, to escort a troop carrier evacuation mission.

 

The RAF dispatches 98 Lancasters and five Mosquitos to bomb aviation-fuel storage tanks at Dugny, near Paris. Meanwhile, 60 Lancasters and 20 Pathfinder Mosquitos attempt to bomb a flyingbomb site at Ferme du Forestal.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 538 – 138 fighters are dispatched to hit rail targets in central and eastern France, losing five fighters.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 109 Lancasters, 101 Halifaxes, and five Mosquitos to attack oil depots at Bordeaux and La Pallice. In the mean time, 104 Halifaxes and 20 Lancasters hit a railway junction and the railway yards at Dijon, 32 Mosquitos hit Berlin, and three Lancasters bomb Bremen.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of almost 200 B-26s and A-20s to bomb rail bridges and embankments in wide areas around Paris. Fighters escort the bombers, support ground forces, give defensive cover, and fly armed reconnaissance in the battle areas.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s British I Corps area, the 49^th Division, in conjunction with Canadian II Corps, advances to Vimont against strong opposition.

 

In US Third Army area, VIII Corps continues to attack Dinard and the Citadel at St Malo and to contain Brest and Lorient. In XV Corps area, armored columns continue steadily northward toward Alençon and Sées. In XX Corps area, the 5th Division overruns Angers.

 

In US First Army area, VII Corps, which has regained the initiative, is slowly driving the enemy back toward Mortain. In the XIX Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division, and the 28^th Infantry Division make a coordinated attack on the right flank of XIX Corps, overrunning Gathemo. In the V Corps area, the 2^nd Division begins limited attacks to the southeast while continuing to defend Vire.

 

Eastern Europe
Units of the Second White Russian Front forge the Narew River near Bialystok.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 450 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escort, to attack six oil refineries in the Ploesti, Rumania area.

 

At Allied Forces Headquarters (AFHQ) General Wilson receives a directive from the British Chiefs of Staff to proceed with Operation DRAGOON, as planned. Phase I of the air operations, in preparation for the invasion of southern France ends. During Phase II, the enemy coastal batteries, radar stations, and troops are to be hit, and the target area is to be isolated by the destruction of highway bridges across the Rhône River. To deceive the enemy, similar targets are to be bombed between Via Reggio, in Italy, and Beziers, near the French-Spanish border.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bomber and A-20 missions are cancelled by bad weather. Fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit gun positions along the southern coast of France, in preparation for the Allied invasion of southern France, Operation DRAGOON.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (India)

During the night, the 20^th Air Force flies two missions:

· 24 B-29s, out of Chengtu, China, bomb the urban area of Nagasaki, Japan, and three others hit targets of opportunity. They shoot down one fighter, the first by B-29s.

· Staging through China Bay, Ceylon, 31 B-29s bomb oil refineries at Palembang, Sumatra, mine the Moesi River, and hit targets of opportunity and a secondary target.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends nine P-40s to strafe the Taiyuan Airfield. They destroy over 20 aircraft. Meanwhile, 16 P-40s destroy four trucks and damage about 50 others at Siangtan and in the Changsha area, and two P-40s strafe numerous junks along the south China coast.

 

Brigadier General Patrick Hurley’s name is proposed to Chiang Kai-shek as President Roosevelt’s representative. At the same time, Donald Nelson is suggested as an American Presidential representative to study China’s economy.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, nine B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb the town of Shwekyina, and a few P-51s support ground forces by hitting a railroad station at Mingon.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s attack Yap Island, concentrating on anti-aircraft positions, airfields and the town of Yap. In New Guinea, B-25s bomb Langgoer Airfield, while fighter-bombers attack Sorong, Manokwari, and villages along the western coast of Geelvink Bay, and more fighter-bombers continue to pound forces between Aitape and Wewak. In other action, large-scale troop carrier missions are flown to forward bases, especially in the Schouten Islands.

 

The 5^th Air Force relocates its headquarters from Nadzab to Owi Island, in the Schouten Islands.

 

On Noemfoor, the 503^rd Parachute Infantry regains contact with the enemy near Hill 380, 2½ miles south-southwest of Inasi.

 

In the Aitape area, PERSECUTION Covering Force begins moving back to Blue Beach.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, flying their first mission from Saipan Island, pound Iwo Jima Island, in the Volcano Islands, beginning the neutralization campaign of that island. Meanwhile, P-47s, based on Saipan, hit Tinian and Pagan islands. B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, hit Wotje Atoll.

 

On Guam, all organized resistance on the island ends as Marines finish clearing their zone to the northern tip. In subsequent mopping up of scattered groups, several hundred Japanese are killed. Of an estimated 18,500 Japanese on Guam, those dead by actual count total a little over 10,000.

 

North Pacific Area

Four B-25s, from the 11^th Air Force, on a shipping sweep, spot two patrol boats 75 miles east-southeast of Shimushu Island, in the Kurile Islands. They sink one and damage the other.

[dschneck]

Friday, August 11,1944

 

Washington, D.C.

The Combined Chiefs of Staff (CCS) confirm orders for Operation DRAGOON to proceed as planned.

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 541 – 660 bombers and over 300 fighters are dispatched to attack marshalling yards, fuel dumps, airfields, and targets of opportunity, in northeastern France and the Paris area.

 

The RAF dispatches 270 Lancasters, 169 Halifaxes, and 20 Mosquitos to attack three railway yards and a bridge. Meanwhile, 49 other aircraft attack the Étaples railway bridge, and 53 Lancasters and three Mosquitos hit U-boat pens at Bordeaux and La Pallice. Six Mosquito fighters provide partial escort cover for the Bordeaux raid but no German fighters are encountered. In other action, 40 Halifaxes and 20 Pathfinder Mosquitos attack four launching sites. In all, one Halifax is lost.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 542 – 294 B-17s attack 23 arsenal areas, barracks, concrete emplacements and heavy artillery posts in and around Brest, France. One B-17 is lost. Missions 541 and 542 are escorted by a force of 356 P-38s and P-51s. One P-51 is lost, with the pilot listed as missing in action.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 179 Lancasters and 10 Mosquitos to attack the railway yards at Givors. Elsewhere, 33 Mosquitos hit Berlin and two hit Trossy St Maxim, nine fly radio countermeasure sorties, 28 fly patrols.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

9^th Air Force A-20s and B-26s attack bridges at Montrichard, Oissel, Fismes, and Creil/Saint-Maximin, gun defenses at Ile de Cezembre and Saint-Malo, and an ammunition dump at Foret de Roumare. Fighters cover the assault area, escort the bombers, and fly armed reconnaissance in the battle area and extensively over northern France

 

In the US Second Army’s VIII Corps area, the 3^rd Division drives south across the Vire–Condé road about two miles east of Vire and presses toward Tinchebray. XXX Corps continues slowly southeast from Mont Pincon toward Condé. In the XXII Corps area, forward elements of the 53^rd and 59^th Divisions, continuing south astride the Orne River, reach the outskirts of Thury– Harcourt.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s II Corp area, while armored elements of II Corps are clearing opposition astride the road to Falaise, the 2^nd Division crosses the Laize River at Bretteville and advances southwest to link up with XXII Corps to the right. A gap between US Third Army units moving north and Canadian and British forces moving south is now about 20 miles wide.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, enemy garrisons of Dinard and St Maio’s Citadel continue to hold out against 83^rd Division attacks. In the XV Corps area, the 2^nd Armored and French 5^th Armored Divisions continue steadily northward, followed by infantry, meeting increasingly strong rear-guard opposition. XV Corps is directed by General Patton to push beyond Falaise, although the US boundary is south of there. XX Corps is directed by the US Third Army to attack northeast to a line from Carrouges to Sées, after assembling on a line from Mayenne to Le Mans.

 

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 9^th Division makes further gains northwest of Sourdeval. In the XIX Corps area, the 29^th Division and Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division, attack the heights around St Sauveur-de-Chaulieu, while the 28^th Division continues southeast from Gathemo. V Corps improves its defensive positions at and near Vire.

 

General Montgomery commends the Allied forces and urges that the attack be pressed.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the Third Baltic Front break through enemy defenses below Lake Peipus on a 42 mile front and press northward.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s, B-26s, and P-47s strike gun positions along the French and Italian coasts west of Genoa.

 

In the British Eighth Army area, Polish 2 Corps has cleared the Adriatic coastal sector as far as the Cesano River.

 

The Operation DRAGOON assault force begins movement from Naples area toward target in southern France.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 23 B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb Changsha, 16 B-25s pound Hengyang and a group of over 40 P-51s and P-40s bomb bridges, villages, warehouses, trucks, troops, and other targets of opportunity in the Hengyang area.

 

On the Salween front, the Chinese begin tunneling and mining under enemy positions remaining in Sung Shan hill mass, since other methods of attack have not resulted in taking the position.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, five B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb an encampment area and underground shelters at Kadu, while four others abort because of bad weather. In other action, six P-40s attack a Japanese occupied temple at Shwekyina and the Japanese Headquarters at Bhamo.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, A-20s hit shipping off Urarom and in Wandammen Bay and barges and a radar station along the coast of Geelvink Bay. A-20s pound Japanese Headquarters and bivouac areas south of Sawar, A-20s and B-25s bomb forces at Haur village, while P- 39s hit the Kairiru Island barge terminal, coastal guns at several points, and troops, supplies, and buildings from But to Rocky Point.

 

In the Aitape area, the 103^rd Infantry, of the 43^rd Division, begins relief of PERSECUTION Covering Force units remaining along the Driniumor River.

 

Central Pacific Area

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

[dschneck]

Saturday, 12 August ,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 545 – 276 B-24s are dispatched to hit airfields at Mourmelon, Laon/Athies, Laon/Couvron, and Juvincourt. 301 B-17s are dispatched to the Metz marshalling yard, and airfields at Chaumont, Buc, La Perthe, and Etampes/Mondesir. The two groups are escorted by a force of 386 P-47s and P-51s, which shoot down one Luftwaffe aircraft. Three B-24s, one B-17 and three P-51s are lost, with 54 men listed as killed or missing.

 

The RAF dispatches 95 Halifaxes, 16 Lancasters, and six Mosquitos to attack a fuel dump at Forêt De Montrichard. Elsewhere, 68 Lancasters and two Mosquitos hit submarine pens at Brest, La Pallice and Bordeaux, while eight Mosquitos provid a fighter escort, and one Wellington flies a radio countermeasure sortie.

 

During the night the RAF targets Brunswick, with 242 Lancasters and 137 Halifaxes. Meanwhile, 191 Lancasters, 96 Halifaxes, and 10 Mosquitos hit the Opel motor factory at Rüsselsheim. In other action, 91 Lancasters, 36 Halifaxes, 12 Stirlings, and five Mosquitos bomb a German troop concentration and a road junction north of Falaise, while 40 Halifaxes and 12 Mosquitos bomb two launching sites and a storage depot. In support of the nights missions, support aircraft and 143 training aircraft fly a diversionary sweep over the English Channel.

 

The shuttle-bombing mission, from the UK, to the USSR, to Italy, and back to the UK, is completed. 72 B-17s take off from 15^th Air Force bases in Italy, bomb the Toulouse/Francazal Airfield, in France, and then proceed to the UK.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

9^th Air Force A-20s and B-26s attack the Oissel rail bridge, a Corbeil-Essonnes refueling siding, and numerous points along highways in the Argentan area, with the aim of bottling up enemy troops. Fighters fly cover for ground forces and armed reconnaissance over wide areas of western and northern France, and escort the bombers. Bomber escort includes one Fighter Group from the 8^th Air Force.

 

In the British Second Army area, VIII Corps is heavily engaged three miles southeast of Vire. In the XXX Corps area, forward elements of the 50^th Division are within about three miles of Condé. XXII Corps is clearing the opposition in the vicinity of Thury-Harcourt.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, II Corps is still held up astride the road to Falaise, but succeeds in linking up with the British XXII Corps to the right, at Barbery.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 83^rd Division continues to inch forward against the St Malo Citadel and Dinard. XV Corps drives beyond Alençon and Sées toward Argentan. The 2^nd French Armored Division thrusts to Carrouges. The 5^th Armored Division takes Sées. XX Corps is ordered to make contact with XV Corps in the Alençon area and then await new orders.

 

The US First Army has completely defeated enemy efforts to break through to Avranches. VII Corps recovers ground lost to the enemy and relieves isolated elements of the 30^th Division. V Corps, employing the 29^th Division on the right and the 2^nd Division on the left, attacks southeast, with the 29^th reaching positions overlooking the St Sauveur-de-Chaulieu-Tinchebray road and the 2^nd overrunning Truttemer-le-Grand.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of almost 550 B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escort, to attack targets in France and Italy. Meanwhile, over 100 P-51s strafe radar installations and other coast-watching facilities along the southern French coast, in preparation for Operation DRAGOON.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers, A-20s, and fighter-bombers attack targets, mainly gun positions, in the battle area north of the Arno River and in southern France.

 

In British Eighth Army area, XIII Corps’ zone is extended eastward to include the sector held by the 6^th Armoured Division. XIII Corps thus has four divisions: the New Zeeland 2^nd, the British 1^st, the Indian 8^th, and the British 6^th Armoured. X Corps now has only one division, the Indian 10^th.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s attack targets along the Monaco-Toulon road, in France, and fighter-bombers hit guns and barracks in the area. In Italy, fighters strafe airfields at Les Chanoines, Montreal, Avignon, La Jasse, Istres-Le-Tube, Valence, and Bergamo.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends seven B-25s to bomb the railroad yards at Hengyang, China. Meanwhile, a force of 19 P-51s and P-40s hit targets of opportunity in this area, while 39 P-40s attack various targets of opportunity.

 

Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek agrees to accept General Hurley and Mr. Nelson as Presidential representatives.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, about 20 fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, hit Shwekyina, damage a bridge near Manla, bomb railroad yards at Pinwe, strafe a river boat near Bhamo, and attack troops in the Myothit area. 24 fighter-bombers support ground forces in the Taungni-Pinbaw area.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, long-range reconnaissance is greatly increased thanks to the strategic position of newly acquired bases in the Schouten Islands. Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound the airfield at Babo, while B-25s and P-39s hit the Nabire Airfield. Other P-39s attack defenses at Mansinam Island and shore concentrations along western Geelvink Bay, P-47s support ground operations in the area of Sansapor Point by bombing Dore, while A- 20s and P-47s hit forces and targets of opportunity in the Sarmi area and along the Metimedan River. Other A-20s and P-39s attack troops at Haur, coastal targets in cooperation with US Navy Motor Torpedo (PT) boats, and fuel dumps at Boram.

 

On Biak, the Sorido airdrome, now consisting of a 4,000 foot strip, is being used by transport planes, but the field is later abandoned.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, based on Saipan Island, hit shipping, a seaplane base, and airfield at Chichi Jima Island, in the Bonin Islands. Meanwhile, B-25s pound Pagan Island, while P-47s hit Rota Island. Elsewhere, B-24s, from the Marshall Islands, bomb Truk Atoll, while B-25s, based on the Gilbert Island, pound Nauru Island.

 

North Pacific Area

Over Paramushiru and Shimushu islands, in the Kurile Islands, four B-24s and two F-7As, from the 11^th Air Force, hit shipping in the Higashi Banjo Strait, and buildings and a runway on Suribachi. Enemy fighters give battle, but the B-24s shoot down three aircraft . Meanwhile, six B-25s fly an uneventful shipping sweep and take photos over Shimushiru Island.

 

During the night, three B-24s depart Shemya Island, in the Aleutian Islands, bound for the Kurile Islands. One aircraft aborts, while the others bomb the Kashiwabara staging area on Paramushiru Island. Later, six B-25s fly a shipping sweep east of the northern Kurils, shooting down one enemy fighter.

[dschneck]

Sunday, August 13,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 548 – 798 B-17s hit battle area targets, the Le Manoir bridge and targets of opportunity, and 466 B-24s hit battle area targets, Ile de Cezembre and St Malo. They are escorted by 136 P-51s. Seven B-17s and five B-24s are lost, with 116 men listed as killed or missing.

 

The RAF sends 28 Lancasters and one Mosquito to bomb the U-boat pens and shipping at Brest, hitting the hulk of an old French battleship, Clémenceau, and on a medium-sized tanker. The intent of the attack was to prevent the Germans from using any of the large ships in Brest to block the harbor before its capture by American troops. Meanwhile, 15 Lancasters bomb an oil depot at Bordeaux, and eight Mosquito fighters fly patrols, while one Wellington flies a radio countermeasure sortie. For the day, two Lancasters and crews are lost.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 30 Mosquitos to Hannover, while 22 fly radio countermeasure sorties, and 15 fly patrols. In other action, 10 Halifaxes and five Lancasters lay mines off Biscay ports, and four Halifaxes fly resistance operations.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of about 575 B-26s and A-20s, with fighter escort, to bomb fuel storage at Les Buissons, points along highways around Lisieux and southeast to Rugles, with the aim of containing the enemy in the Falaise pocket. Other railroad targets include Peronne, Doullens, and Corbeil- Essonnes. Fighters cover ground forces, and fly armed reconnaissance in the Alencon, Le Mans, Domfront, and Chartres areas. In other action, about 125 C-47s fly ferry and evacuation missions.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 83^rd Division continues to make slow progress against strongpoints at St Malo and Dinard. Combat Command A, of the 6^th Armored Division, batters at outer defenses of Brest without avail. XV Corps reaches the Argentan area and is halted there by order of General Bradley. XX Corps, with Chartres as its next objective, moves forward in preparation for an attack.

 

In US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division and the 1^st Infantry Division swing northeast around Domfront, driving rapidly toward the Vire–Argentan road, to constrict pocketed enemy forces. XIX Corps probes eastward, with 2^nd Armored Division units threatening Domfront and Ger, and the 28^th Division moving toward St Sauveur-de-Chaulieu through Sourdeval. In the V Corps area, the 29^th Division pushes southward in the direction of Ger, on the right flank of V Corps, with forward elements reaching La Françaisere, east of Sourdeval. The 2^nd Division heads for Tinchebray, overrunning Truttemer-le-Petit.

 

During the night, 28 B-26s, from the 9^th Air Force, bomb the Foret de Halouze ammunition dump and bivouac area.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of almost 500 B-17s and B-24s to attack gun positions around Genoa, Italy, and Toulon and Sete, France, and strike at bridges at Pont-Saint-Esprit, Avignon, Orange, and Crest, all in France. Meanwhile 31 P-38s dive-bomb the Montelimar Airfield, while other fighters fly over 180 sorties in support of the bombers, and 28 other bombers hit military installations at Pec, Yugoslavia.

 

Italian Campaign

In France, 12^th Air Force medium bombers blast coastal defense guns in the Marseille area. In Italy, A-20s attack explosive stores in the battle area in the Arno River Valley.

 

In US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, the 1^st Armored Division, which has been completely reorganized in the field, takes responsibility for the right flank of IV Corps, replacing Task Force Ramey.

 

In the British Eighth Army’s XIII Corps area, elements of the Indian 8^th Division cross into northern Florence, via Ponte Vecchio, to help Italians extend their hold on the city.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s hit targets of opportunity in the western Po River Valley and a fuel dump north of the battle area.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends over 30 B-25s to bomb Tungling, Sinsiang, and Hengyang, the Pailochi Airfield, shipping at Takao harbor and nearby coastal areas, in China. In other action, a force of over 50 other P-40s, P-51s, and P-38s attack troops, bridges, railroad tracks, shipping, trucks, and other targets of opportunity at several locations.

 

The 14^th Air Force sends aircraft on a reconnaissance of Manila docks, in the Philippine Islands. The mission evokes unfavorable reaction from both General Stilwell and General MacArthur. MacArthur warns General Chennault, commander of the 14^th Air Force, not to bomb Manila.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 20 fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, hit troops and supplies at Mankwi, Myothit, and Tali. Seven others knock out a bridge at Kyauktalon and damage another near Namkwin. Meanwhile, 26 fighter-bombers attack the village of Pinwe and hit targets of opportunity near Mawlu and Pinbaw, while nine B-25s strike a bomb storage area at Pinwe considerably damaging the village.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Bad weather in the curtails some Far East Air Force (FEAF) operations. However, in New Guinea, B-24s bomb bivouacs and supply dumps at Manokwari. Bombers hit a Cape Wom storage area, while P-39s cooperate with US Navy PT boats to hit Dagua personnel areas and Suain coastal positions. P-47s and P-39s hit Cape Wom, troops at Ulban, Matapau, and Suain, and support ground forces at Sarmi, while C-47s complete nearly 90 missions to Owi Island and other forward bases.

 

In the Aitape area, relief of the 127^th Infantry along the Driniumor River is completed.

[dschneck]

Monday, August 14,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 552 – 1,183 bombers and 429 fighters are dispatched to attack targets in southwestern Germany, eastern France, and the Bordeaux region, in France.

 

The RAF sends 411 Lancasters, 352 Halifaxes, and 42 Mosquitos to attack seven German troop positions facing the 3^rd Canadian Division, which is advancing on Falaise, dropping 3,723 tons of bombs. Meanwhile, 155 Lancasters and four Mosquitos make two separate attacks on ships in Brest harbour. The Clemenceau and the cruiser Gueydon are both hit and believed left sinking in “safe” positions which would not hinder Allied use of the port when American troops take possession. In other action, one Wellington is sent on a radio countermeasure sortie. For the day, four Lancasters and their crews are lost.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 553 – During the night, six B-17s drop leaflets in France, shooting down one Luftwaffe aircraft. Meanwhile, 37 B-24s fly CARPETBAGGER missions in France. A force of 136 P-38s and P-47s fly fighter-bomber missions in the Paris area, shooting down three aircraft. One B-24, one P-38 and two P-47s are lost, with their crews.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 32 Mosquitos to Berlin, two to a Sterkrade oil plant and two to the St Trond Airfield. One other aircraft flies a radio countermeasure sortie, eight Halifaxes and six Lancasters lay mines off Biscay ports, and four aircraft fly resistance operations.

 

Seven RAF aircraft fly nighttime training missions.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

9^th Air Force A-20s and B-26s, with fighter escort, hit several highway and rail bridges, junctions and sidings mostly beyond the battle lines, to delay and complicate the German retreat. Fighters fly armed reconnaissance over the Falaise, Broglie, and Chartres areas, and support ground forces, especially sseven armored and infantry divisions, over wide areas of northern and western France.

 

In the British Second Army area, VIII Corps continues southward toward Tinchebray, while V Corps of US First Army pushes toward same objective from the west. XXX Corps is closing in on Vassy and Condé. In the XXII Corps area, the 59^th Division takes Thury-Harcourt. Their advance is continued toward Falaise.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, II Corps, making the main effort on Falaise from the north, begins an attack to outflank enemy opposition on Caen–Falaise highway. The Canadian 2^nd Division secures a bridgehead across the Laize River and pushes to within four miles of Falaise.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division’s Combat Command B and Combat Command R move to Vannes and Lorient, respectively, to relieve units of the 4^th Armored Division. Combat Command B finds Vannes deserted and moves on to Lorient, relieving Combat Command R. the Lorient containing force now consists of Combat Command B, of the 15^th Tank Battalion, and the 86^th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (mechanized). The 83^rd Division continues to struggle for the St Malo Citadel and Dinard. The 8th Division joins in the assault on Dinard. XV Corps mops up in the Alençon–Sées–Argentan area and prepares to drive east on Dreux. XX Corps begins a drive toward Chartres with the 7^th Armored Division and 5^th Infantry Division. XII Corps continues east toward Orléans with elements of the 4^th Armored Division.

 

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division drives steadily northward through Carrouges to Ranes, against strong opposition, as the enemy struggles to keep escape routes open. The 9^th Division is following up. The 1^st Division gets forward elements well beyond La Ferté- Macé. The 4^th Division, disposed along the Varenne River, is out of contact with the enemy. In the XIX Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division, pushes east, overrunning Domfront, Lonlay-l’Abbaye, and Get. The 28^th Division, except for 109^th Regiment (which moves south toward Forêt de Mortain), goes into reserve. The 30^th Division moves forward behind the armor. In the V Corps area, the 29^th Division, advancing east from positions below the Sourdeval–Tinchebray highway, reaches St Jean-du-Bois. The 2^nd Division continues toward Tinchebray but is soon stopped by lively opposition.

 

A XIX Tactical Air Command squadron uniquely effects the surrender of a number of German ground troops. Germans on roads being strafed by the squadron northeast of Carrouges wave white flags, whereupon the planes buzz the road and shepherd the enemy troops into a column which then proceeds to US lines to surrender;

 

Eastern Europe
British aircraft begin dropping supplies to Polish forces within Warsaw.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of 540 B-24s and B-17s to bomb gun positions around Toulon, France, and Genoa, Italy, as the Operation DRAGOON convoy heads for the French Mediterranean coast. Meanwhile, a group of 145 P-38s and P-51s strafe radar installations at several coastal points.

 

After rendezvousing off Corsica, the DRAGOON naval convoys head for the target area of southern France.

 

Around midnight, the US Seventh Army, under control of Allied Force Headquarters (AFHQ), begins preliminary operations to isolate the main DRAGOON invasion beaches on the French Mediterranean coast.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers hit French coastal defenses, while fighter-bombers pound various gun positions, tracks, enemy headquarters, and targets of opportunity in the Toulon-Nice area. Fighters strafe radar installations and targets of opportunity along the southern coast as Operation DRAGOON forces approach.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s bomb Le Vallon, Istres, and Orange/Plan de Dieu Airfields and other Rhone Valley targets as preparation for Operation DRAGOON.

 

The 12^th Air Force sends detachments of the 416^th Night Pursuit Squadron, based in Italy with Beaufighters and Mosquitos, to operate from Sicily and Corsica.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 24 B-25s, from the 14^th Air Force, blast Lungling, while 16 P-40s hit a fortified pass and targets of opportunity to the south. In the mean time, 12 B-25s bomb the railroad yards at Siangtan, a group of 31 P-40s and P-51s hit the railroad yards, river shipping, and general targets of opportunity at Hengyang, 13 P-40s attack Tengchung, as 13 others hit trucks, troops, and rivercraft at Pailochi and Sinying, and four more bomb a bridge at Hsenwi.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 10^th Air Force B-25s bomb Mohnyin and Indaw, while 18 P-51s pound targets in the Myothit area. In other action, 46 other fighter-bombers hit various northern Burma targets, including the Naba junction, the active area near Pinbaw, a building and targets of opportunity at Thaikwagon, a command post at Hopin, a motor pool at Nansiaung Forest, ammunition and other supplies in the Mohnyin area, and bridges south of Bhamo one of which is slightly damaged.

 

The 10^th Air Force moves the 2^nd Troop Carrier Squadron, with C-47s, from India to Burma.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s and B-24s attack Ternate Island, in the Moluccas Islands, and anti-aircraft positions, oil dumps, barracks, supply areas, and other targets throughout the Halmahera Islands. In New Guinea, B-24s pound the airfield at Babo, while A-20s, fighter-bombers, and RAAF aircraft, blast bivouac and troops at Terabu, Kaiten, and Wewak Point.

 

In Vogelkop area of New Guinea, a crippled B–24 makes a successful landing at the Middleburg Island airstrip.

 

The 5^th Air Force moves the 33^rd Bomb Squadron (Heavy), of the flying B-24s with the 22^nd Bomb Group (Heavy), from Nadzab to Owi Island, in the Schouten Islands.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, based on Saipan, bomb Iwo Jima Island, B-25s hit Pagan Island, and P-47s hit Rota Island. From the Marshall Islands, B-25s hit Ponape Island, and B-24s bomb Wotje Atoll.

 

The 7^th Air Force is reorganized as a "mobile tactical airforce" retaining only units that will function in the combat area. The VII Bomber Command now includes the 11^th, 30^th and 494^th Bomb Groups (Heavy), and the 41^st Bomb Group (Medium). The VII Fighter Command now includes the 15^th, 21^st (still in Hawaii) and 318^th Fighter Groups and the 6^th Night Pursuit Squadron. The recently activated VII Air Service Area Command is composed of four service groups. The 9^th Troop Carrier Squadron and 28^th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron are assigned directly to 7^th Air Force Headquarters.

 

VII Bomber Command Headquarters moves from Kwajalein Atoll to Saipan Island.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, August 15,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 554 – 932 bombers and 443 fighters are dispatched to attack 11airfields in northwestern Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium in conjunction with 1,004 RAF heavy bombers and Mosquitos raiding nine airfields in the Netherlands and Belgium.

 

The RAF sends 599 Lancasters, 385 Halifaxes, 19 Mosquitos, and one Lightning to attack nine airfields in Holland and Belgium, in preparation for a renewed night offensive against Germany. Meanwhile, one Wellington flies a radio countermeasure sortie. Three Lancasters and crews are lost.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 555 – 35 P-47s dive-bomb and skip-bomb a repair shop and locomotives in the marshalling yard at Braine-le-Comtes. During the night, 12 B-24s fly CARPETBAGGER missions. One P-47 is lost.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 32 Mosquitos to Berlin, eight to the Venlo Airfield and nine to various Ruhr targets.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of over 330 A-20s and B-26s, with fighter escort, to bomb Marseilleen- Beauvaisis and Foret de Chantilly ammunition and fuel dumps, rail bridges at Auvers-sur-Oise and L'Isle-Adam, the Serqueux marshalling yard, and coastal defense at Saint- Malo. Fighters fly cover for five infantry and armored divisions, and fly extensive armed reconnaissance over northern and western France.

 

In British Second Army area, VIII Corps makes contact with US V Corps forces near Tinchebray. XXX Corps overruns Vassy and continues to clear the region near Condé. XXII Corps progresses toward Falaise from the northwest.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s II Corps area, the Canadian 4^th Armoured Division advances toward Falaise in the region east of the Caen–Falaise road. The Polish 1^st Armored Division establishes a bridgehead across the Dives River, northeast of Falaise.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 83^rd Division takes Dinard, but the enemy continues effective defense of the St Malo Citadel. The 6^th Armored Division contains Brest and Lorient. In the XV Corps area, the 5^th Armored Division and 79^th Infantry Division are pushing rapidly toward Dreux. XV Corps elements, consisting of the French 2^nd Armored Division, the 90^th Infantry Division, and 80^th Infantry Division, less 319^th Infantry, containing the enemy pocket in the Argentan– Falaise area, are formed into a Provisional Corps under the command of Major General Hugh Gaffey, US Third Army chief of staff. The Enemy continues vigorous efforts to escape the trap. In the XX Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division reaches the edge of Chartres, where heavy fighting ensues. In the XII Corps area, the 4^th Armored Division, followed by 35^th Division, pushes rapidly toward Orléans. Elements of the 35^th Division are driving toward Châteaudun, northwest of Orléans.

 

In US First Army area, VII Corps progresses well against light resistance. The 3^rd Armored Division, upon the capture of Ranes, moves some elements northeast toward Ecouché and others northwest toward Fromental. The 1^st Division continues northward toward the Vire–Argentan highway to the left of the 3^rd Armored Division. The 9^th Division continues to follow spearheads. In the V Corps area, the 29^th Division secures the heights south of Tinchebray, while the 2^nd Division overruns Tinchebray. This concludes V Crops current mission.

 

General Montgomery moves the boundary between British and US forces northward.

 

The 12^th Army Group plan to drop airborne forces west of the Seine River to block enemy escape routes, Operation TRANSFIGURE, is deemed unnecessary.

 

Mediterranean Theater

In the 15^th Air Force’s first mass night raid, a force of 252 B-17s and B-24s, after a predawn takeoff, pound the beaches in the Cannes-Toulon area, of France, in advance of Operation DRAGOON. 28 other fighter-escorted B-17s bomb highway bridges over the Rhone River, while other B-17s, sent against coastal gun positions, abort the mission because of poor visibility. 166 P-51s escort the Mediterranean Tactical Air Force (MATAF), and C- 47s carrying airborne invasion troops.

 

The US Seventh Army, under control of Allied Force Headquarters (AFHQ), begins preliminary operations to isolate the main DRAGOON invasion beaches on the French Mediterranean coast around midnight of August 14–15.

 

To secure left flank of the assault area, SITKA Force, a US Special Service Force, invades the small islands of Levant and Port Cros. Levant is cleared and Port Cros is partially cleared. ROMEO Force, French Commandos, land on the mainland east of Cap Nègre and soon clears coastal defenses and blocks the coastal highway. ROSIE Force, a French Naval Assault Group, lands southwest of Cannes, in the Theoule-sur- Mer area, to secure the right flank of the assault area, but is unable to accomplish its mission and suffers heavy casualties. RUGBY Force, the 1^st Airborne Task Force (ABTF) drops in the rear of the assault beaches, starting at 0430 hours, and accomplishes its task of blocking off the invasion coast from the interior along “Blue Line,” in the Le Muy–Le Luc area, before H-Hour. RUGBY Force is unable to clear Le Muy but overruns a number of villages. These ground operations, plus the final pounding of assault zone by aircraft and naval gunfire, leave the enemy incapable of offering much resistance.

 

VI Corps, commanded by General Truscott, lands, with three divisions abreast, between Nice and Toulon at H-Hour, 0800 hours, and moves inland, against light, scattered resistance. The 3^rd Division, ALPHA Force, lands on the left flank between the Bay of Cavalaire and the Bay of Pampelonne, and moves quickly west and north. The left flank forces overrun Cavalaire and make contact with the French Commandos, who are placed under the 3^rd Division, at Cap Nègre. Right flank troops reach St Tropez, as 1^st Airborne Task Force (ABTF) elements and Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI) are completing its capture, and join in the attack that clears the town and St Tropez Peninsula. Other towns taken by the 3^rd Division are La Mole, Cogolin, Grimaud, and La Croix.

 

In center of VI Corps, the 45^th Division, DELTA Force, lands near Ste Maxime and quickly secures the beaches, although the town of Ste Maxime holds out until the afternoon. DELTA Force speeds inland toward Le Muy and Fréjus. Contact is made with the 1^st Airborne Task Force (ABTF) and with friendly forces on each flank. The 179^th Infantry is held in reserve. On the right flank of VI Corps, the 36th Division, CAMEL Force, lands east of St Raphaël, with the 141^st Infantry leading at H-Hour and the 143^rd Infantry following soon afterwards. The 141^st Infantry overruns Drammont and coastal fortifications near Agay and pushes rapidly northward, driving west toward St Raphaël.

 

Regimental Combat Team 142, scheduled to land at 1400 hours west of Fréjus, and take that town, is forced to land 10 miles east of the town, when obstacles at the planned site cannot be breached. They start ashore at 1532 hours, moving to the heights northeast of Fréjus.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force A-20s bomb barracks in the invasion area while B-25s, B-26s, P-38s, and P-47s, supporting the invasion, pound beaches, enemy concentrations, and gun positions in coastal areas. Later in the day they move the attacks inland to interdict enemy communications lines, successfully hitting numerous bridges. Fighters maintain constant patrol over the convoys and the invasion area.

 

The British Eighth Army begins a largescale shift of units to eastern flank in preparation for the assault on the Gothic Line.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s hit lights and vehicles from north of the beachhead to the Rhone River.

 

China – Burma – India Theater

Air Marshall William A Coryton, a US Army Air Force Lieutenant General, assumes command of the Third Tactical Air Force, a major component of the Eastern Air Command (EAC). Tactical Air Force functions remain under Coryton until it is dissolved on December 4, 1944.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 12 B-25s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb Kutkai, demolishing two large buildings and leaving 14 burning. Meanwhile, 35 P-40s attack Tingka, Hsenwi, Lungling, and Tengchung, while a force of nearly 100 P-40s and P-51s attack troops, horses, trucks, river shipping, artillery pieces, warehouses, and general targets of opportunity in or near Sungpai, Sinshih, Hengyang, Chaling, Leiyang, Sinyang, Siangtan, Hukow, and Changsha. In French Indochina, four P-40s hit coastal shipping at Hongay and Nam Dinh.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a group of over 70 P-51s, P-47s, P-40s, and A-36s to hit numerous targets in northern Burma, including general targets of opportunity in the Bhamo area, a monastery at Pegu, troops east of Mawhun, Loiwing and the Lashio Airfield, and rail targets between Naba and Hopin. The also provide close support strikes for ground forces in the Pinbaw and Naba areas, and hit supply dumps at Mainghka and two villages north of Kazu.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the Lolobata Airfield on Halmahera Island, and B-25s attack shipping in the Ternate Island area, setting a 1,200 ton vessel afire and damaging several luggers and barges. Aircraft on armed reconnaissance hit targets of opportunity in the Ceram Island area and Tanimbar Island. In New Guinea, P-39s dive-bomb anti-aircraft positions at Wewak Point.

 

On Noemfoor, during the night, the Japanese succeed in withdrawing their main force of some 200 toward Pakriki, on the south central coast, from Hill 380.

 

On Biak, the 162^nd Rigiment and the 163^rd Regiment split enemy remnants on the island as they make contact on the Sorido– Korim Bay track.

 

In the Aitape area, the Tadji Defense Perimeter and Covering Force, consisting of the 43^rd Division and Cavalry Regimental Combat Team 112, under the command of Major General Leonard Wing, who also commands the 43^rd Division, takes over the mission of PERSECUTION Covering Force and latter is dissolved.

 

In the Wakde-Sarmi area, the 31^st Division, less Regimental Combat Team 124, arrives.

 

In the Vogelkop area, ALAMO Force warns Task Force TYPHOON that an enemy force of 250 has been moving along the north coast from Manokwari to Sorong.

 

ALAMO Force issues a field order for the invasion of Morotai. XI Corps Task Force, called TRADEWIND Assault Force, under the command of General Hall, and consisting of 31^st Division, with Regimental Combat Team 126, of the 32^nd Division as reserve, is to conduct the operation.

 

Central Pacific Area

The 111^th Amphibious Corps, having completed its operations in the Marianas sooner than expected, is committed to the task of invading the Palaus.

[dschneck]

A word about Alamo Force and other errors:

 

The sources for my postings are official military timelines prepared between 1945 and (circa) 1954, by the US Army, US Navy, US Air Force, the British Royal Navy and the RAF. While these official documentations are considered to be the actual and factual truth of what happened, they are not without flaws.

In most cases, these timelines were prepared by civilians, after the fact. Many of the authors were war correspondents that were “there” when things happened and were contracted by the military to document it. They were not paid very much for their work, and the overall hugeness of the task caused some to take as many short cuts as they could.

In the early 1950s, all document preparation, including letters, was either in long hand, through shorthand dictation or through the use of a recording device. No matter how the document was prepared, the typist was the final step before completion. Unfortunately, through all of this, “X Corps” is sometimes referred to as “10 Corps,” or “ten corps.” And the word “two” sometimes is changed to “II,” “ii,” “2,” or “to.” To make it really difficult for the reader, there is a myriad of shortened words, abbreviations and an almost complete lack of punctuation, resulting in run-on sentences and incomplete statements.

The preparers used whatever written documentation existed at the time, their own memory and, in some cases, the memory of important military and political leaders of the time. The end result is an excellent account of World War II, with some errors and discrepancies. The primary reason for these is that no one, at the time, proof read or double checked their work.

The US Navy timeline, for example, includes information obtained from enemy sources, in an attempt to further document the fate of Allied shipping. In almost all cases, the US Navy includes longitudinal and latitudinal coordinates where Allied and enemy ships were sunk. It is not unusual for the US Navy timeline to say that an American ship sank a Japanese submarine in the South Pacific. What is unusual is that the coordinates place the action in the Mediterranean Sea or the Sarah Desert.

The US Army timeline also has its challenges. For example, as mentioned in this posting by member 6armyAS, the Alamo Scouts were formed on November 29, 1943. However, the US Army timeline indicates that “Alamo” was formed on June 20, 1943. Later, the same source puts the “Alamo Force” at Cape Gloucester, which is apparently incorrect. It is hard to imagine what General Krueger may have told the interviewer, or how the author recalled the incident, or how that was interpreted by the stenographer, or how that was transcribed by the typist. In this case, the US 6^th Army and Alamo Force/Scouts, after it was officially organized, shared the same commander and overall leadership, and it is entirely possible that in later years the 6^th Army, Alamo Force and Alamo Scouts became one and the same. Or, General Krueger may have had a love affair with all things “Alamo” and named many things in its honor, leaving the official timeline even more ambiguous. This notion may hold some water, since Krueger retired to San Antonio, Texas, after the war. Another possibility is that the author never interviewed Krueger and relied on his own memory, injecting his interpretation of what happened.

The US Air Force timeline also has problems. In some cases, Bomb Groups are confused with Bomb Squadrons, and Fighter Groups are confused with Fighter Squadrons. To make matters really difficult, some unit designations exist in all four unit types. An extreme example would be where the “382^nd” (this is not a real example) is a Group, a Squadron, a Bomber unit, and a Fighter unit, all with the same number.

Today, because of interest groups and forums like this one, we can now start to make corrections to the historical documentation. In the case of the US Navy timeline, deep sea divers have managed to find the wreckage of some ships and fully document their locations. In other cases, individual Army, Navy and Marine alumni groups have assisted in documenting their unit histories, making further corrections.

As an author and amateur historian (and I use that term loosely), I must adhere to specific “official” sources. Otherwise I can get distracted in a never ending attempt to resolve all of the errors, ambiguities and vagueness presented in those documents.

It would be nice if we could correct all the errors in the official timelines, but none of us have enough time on this earth to complete the task.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, August 16,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 556 – 1,090 bombers and 692 fighters are dispatched to make visual attacks on oil refineries and aircraft plants in central Germany.

 

The RAF sends 25 Lancasters and one Mosquito to attack the U-boat pens at La Pallice, but the target is cloud covered and only three aircraft complete the mission. Meanwhile, one Wellington flies a radio countermeasure sortie.

 

During the night the RAF Dispatches 461 Lancasters to attack the port and industrial areas at Stettin. Meanwhile, 195 Lancasters, 144 Halifaxes, 9 Mosquitos attack Kiel, and support aircraft and 145 aircraft from training units fly a diversionary sweep over the North Sea. In other action, 23 Mosquitos hit Berlin, five hit the Deelen Airfield and three each harass Dortmund, Kamen and Sterkrade. Elsewhere, 33 aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, 47 Mosquito fly patrols, 93 aircraft lay mines in the Baltic, Kiel Bay and the River Gironde. Nine Lancasters and six Halifaxes are lost, with their crews.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends a group of about 130 B-26s and A-20s, with fighter escort, to hit a Foret de Roumare ammunition dump and rail bridges at Pont-Audemer, Thibouville, Brionne, Nassandres, and Le Bourg, all in France. Fighters give air cover to an armored division and infantry forces, and fly patrol and armed reconnaissance over northern and western France.

 

In the British Second Army’s VIII Corps area, the 3^rd Division finds Flers clear of enemy. In the XXX Corps area, Condé-sur-Noireau falls to the 11^th Armored Division without opposition. XXII Corps, continuing southeast toward Falaise, gets almost to the Falaise– Condé railway line.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, II Corps has virtually surrounded Falaise. British I Corps begins a general advance eastward toward the Seine River in the coastal sector. The 6^th Airborne Division, on the coast, finds the enemy firmly established along the Dives River in the Cabourg area. The 49^th Division crosses the Dives River at Mézidon. The 51^st Division seizes St Pierre-sur- Dives and continues toward Lisieux. The 7^th Armored Division is operating on II Corps right flank.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 83^rd Division continues to batter at the St Malo Citadel, but releases the 121^st Infantry to the 8^th Division. Elements of the 8^th Division are now in the Brest area. XV Corps reaches the Eure River and establishes bridgehead. Dreux falls to the 5^th Armored Division. XX Corps assembles near Chartres and establishes a bridgehead across Aunay River. In the XII Corps area, Orléans falls in a coordinated assault by Combat Command A, of the 4^th Armored Division, and the 137^th Infantry, of the 35^th Division. Regimental Combat Team 320, of the 35^th Division, reaches the outskirts of Châteaudun.

 

In the US First Army area, VII Corps continues northward with little difficulty, except in the Fromental area, where the 3^rd Armored Division is strongly opposed. XIX Corps reaches its objectives and is pinched out by the British, after which they release Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division, to its parent unit. V Corps remains in place. The 116^th Infantry, of the 29^th Division, defends V Corps front.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches 89 B-24s, with fighter escort, to bomb a chemical works at Friedrichshafen, Germany. In France, 108 B-17s, supporting Operation DRAGOON, attack railroad bridges at Saint-Vallier, Saint-Pierre-d'Albigny, Grenoble, and Isere-Valence. Meanwhile, 42 P-51s escort Mediterranean Allied Tactical Air Force (MATAF) C- 47s on a supply dropping mission to DRAGOON beachheads.

 

In US Seventh Army area, an Army command post is established ashore, west of St Tropez. The enemy garrison of Port Cros Island is resisting stoutly from the fort on the west end of island. The 1^st Airborne Task Force consolidates in the rear of the beachhead and overcomes opposition at Le Muy. VI Corps orders an exploitation inland.

 

French Army B, under the command of General de Lattre de Tassigny, and assigned to the US Seventh Army, begins landing 2^nd Corps over VI Corps beaches in preparation for a drive on Toulon and Marseille from “Blue Line.”

 

Italian Campaign

In support of Operation DRAGOON forces, 12^th Air Force fighters and fighter-bombers continue to blast enemy defenses and communications on the beaches and in the invasion area of southern France. A-20s hit ammunition stores, medium bombers pound Rhone River bridges and gun positions throughout the general area.

 

Operation Order No. 3 presents a plan, secretly drawn up on August 4, for breaking through the Gothic Line. The British Eighth Army initially is to make the main effort in the Adriatic coastal sector.

 

The US Fifth Army, previously unaware of this alteration in plans, is forced to change its strategy. General Clark issues instructions to mask the build-up of II Corps from the enemy. A new inter-army boundary becomes effective, and the 85^th Division, of II Corps, relieves the New Zealand 2^nd Division in the Montelupo area. The Fifth Army, upon reaching the Bologna area, is to continue to Modena and exploit beyond there.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 18 B-25s to bomb the Wanling area and warehouses, in China, while 12 more hit the Chaling area and warehouses at Siangtan. Meanwhile, a group of 90 P-40s and P-51s hit bridges, fortified positions, troops, trucks, rivercraft, supplies, gun positions, and other targets of opportunity in the Hsenwi and Lungling areas and in the widespread area around Tunating Lake and the central Yangtze River.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, as the last Japanese resistance in India ceases, 16 B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb Indaw, while 20 P-51s hit airfields at Lashio, Nawnghkio, Shwebo, Anisakan, and Onbauk and a group of 37 P-40s and P-51s hit strong points, pillboxes, and machinegun positions in the Pinbaw area. Meanwhile, a group of 19 P-47s and P-51s attack targets of opportunity at Katha, a bridge south of Bhamo, the town of Tagwin, railroad targets of opportunity between Naba and Hopin, an enemyheld monastery, and an ammunition dump at Pegu.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In the Molucca Islands, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s and B-25s bomb the Miti and Lolobata airfields, on Halmahera Island, warehouses and shipping facilities on Ternate Island, shipping in Wasile and Veda Bays, and Japanese positions on Tanimbar Island. Off Alor Island, in the Sunda Islands, B-25s sink a small vessel. In New Guinea, bombers hit installations at Ajoe, and A-20s support ground forces in the Maffin Bay area, while P- 39s hit troops and positions from Manokwari to Windissi and bomb the airfield at Ransiki, Moemi, and Waren.

 

In the Aitape area, the 128^th Infantry returns to Blue Beach from the former sector of North Force along the Driniumor River.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from Saipan Island, hit Chichi Jima Island and Pagan Island. Meanwhile, B-24s, based in the Marshall Island, bomb Truk Atoll.

[dschneck]

Thursday, August 17,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 558 – 10 B-24s are dispatched to drop Azon missiles on the Les Foulous, France, rail bridge but the mission is abandoned due to deteriorating weather.

 

The RAF dispatches 79 Halifaxes to bomb shipping in the port area of Brest, but the target area is covered by clouds, and only 54 aircraft complete the mission.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 559 – One B-17 drops a BATTY bomb on the port area at La Pallice, France.

 

Fighter-bomber missions flown by the VIII Fighter Command: 1. A force of 397 P-38s and P- 47s hit the Paris/Brussels area and 318 P-51s are dispatched to hit communications targets. They shoot down three enemy aircraft. Seven P-51s are lost, with the pilots listed as missing in action.

 

During the night, 55 RAF training Wellingtons and 14 radio countermeasure aircraft fly a sweep over the North Sea. Operation of this type are now being flown on some nights when no major raid is being carried out, in order to draw up the German fighters and cause them to waste fuel. These sweeps were part diversionary, to confuse the German controllers, and part of the campaign against German oil supplies. Meanwhile, 37 Mosquitos attack Mannheim and three each hit Dortmund, Kamen and Sterkrade. In other action, 15 aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, 14 Mosquito fly patrols, 12 Halifaxes lay mines off Biscay coasts, and for aircraft fly resistance operations. In other action, two RAF training aircraft fly leaflet sorties.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force sends over 400 A-20s and B-26s bomb road bridges at Montfort sur Risle, Pont Audemer, Nassandres, Beaumont le Roger, Le Bourg, Brionne, and Beaumontel, and a rail bridge at La Ferrieresur- Risle. Fighters fly ground force cover over St Malo and Dreux and armed reconnaissance in northwestern France. Elsewhere, fighters, from the IX Tactical Air Command, attack and severely damage Gestapo Headquarters near Chateauroux.

 

The British Second Army presses southward against an enemy pocket from the vicinity of Flers, Condé, and Falaise.

 

In Canadian First Army’s II Corps area, the capture of Falaise by the Canadian 2^nd Division narrows the enemy’s escape corridor. Crossing the Dives River near Morteaux, the Canadian 4^th Armoured Division drives southeast toward Trun in conjunction with the Polish 1^st Armored Division to the left.

 

The US 12th Army Group:

· Directs the US First Army to clear the Chambois–Trun area and, in conjunction with British, complete the encirclement and reduction of the enemy pocket.

· Orders the US Third Army to drive on Mantes- Gassicourt, while completing the capture of the Brittany Peninsula.

· Orders the regrouping for the above missions.

· Adjusts the boundaries between armies.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, opposition at St Malo ends, with the surrender of the Citadel to the 83^rd Division. To speed the reduction of Brittany, the 2^nd Division and the 2^nd and 5^th Ranger Battalions are allocated to VIII Corps. The 29^th Division is to be added within the next two days. In the XV Corps area, the 5^th Armored Division and the 79^th Infantry Division maintain their bridgeheads across the Aunay River and move elements toward Mantes-Gassicourt. In the XX Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division completes their mop-up of Chartres, while the 5^th Division blocks enemy exits. XII Corps mops up in Orléans and Châteaudun. The enemy withdraws across the Loire River on the southern flank.

 

In the US First Army area, VII Corps establishes positions along the Vire–Argentan highway between Ecouché and Flers. V Corps takes over a new zone and adds units previously under the control of the Provisional Corps, of the Third Army, with orders to close the Argentan–Falaise gap. XIX Corps is given the responsibility for the sector and troops previously held by V Corps. As reconstituted, V Corps now consists of the the 90^th Division, the French 2^nd Armored Division, and the 80^th Division, less the 319^th Infantry. The 90^th Division seizes Le Bourg- St Léonard, below Chambois, against bitter opposition.

 

Hitler replaces Field Marshal Günther von Kluge as commander of Oberbefehlshaber West (OB West), the German Army Command in the West, with Field Marshal Walter Model.

 

Eastern Europe
Germans forces counterattacking the Siauliai are, in Lithuania.

 

Troops of the Third White Russian Front reach the border of East Prussia, along the Sesupe River.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends 53 B-17s, with fighter cover, to bomb the Nish Airfield, in Yugoslavia. Elsewhere, 250 B-24s, escorted by P-51s, bomb three oil refineries and targets of opportunity in the Ploesti area, of Rumania.

 

In US Seventh Army area, the small German garrison of Port Cros Island, surrenders to the US Special Service Force.

 

In the US VI Corps area, the 3^rd Division, with the 7^th Infantry and attached French Commandos, continues to clear the left flank toward Toulon, reaching the “Blue Line” in the La Londe–Les Maures area. On the right flank, the 36^th Division, moving elements through Trans en Provence to Draguignan, also reaches the “Blue Line,” completing the assault phase, and make contact with the 1^st Airborne Task Force near Le Muy. During the night, the 1^st and 2^nd Battalions, of the 30^th Infantry, assemble east of Brignoles.

 

Italian Campaign

Despite bad weather, 12^th Air Force medium bombers attack railroad bridges leading to the beachhead area of the southern coast and hit coastal guns southwest of Toulon, France. Meanwhile, fighter-bombers and fighters on armed reconnaissance and patrol score excellent results against motor transport and rail cars and destroy several airplanes on airfields in southern France.

 

On the ground in Italy, the US Fifth Army orders an attack to penetrate the Gothic Line on an eight mile front between Florence and Pontassieve, to begin at one minute past midnight on August 25.

 

In the British Eighth Army area, Polish 2 Corps postpones an attack across the Cesano River, planned for this time, until mine fields can be cleared.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s hit motor transport and drop ammunition to invasion forces.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 25 B-24s to bomb Yoyang, chins, while 18 B-25s attack the railroad yards and storage area at Chiuchiang, and four others hit the road and airfield in the Hengyang area and storage buildings at Nanyo. A group of over 100 P-40s, P-51s, and P-38s, on offensive reconnaissance, attack town areas, bridges, hangars, supply dumps, railroad targets, and road and river traffic in east Burma.

 

General Chennault asks General Hearn to send US supplies to the Chinese to assist them in recapturing Heng-yang, regardless of the Nationalist Government’s view on this matter.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 47 fighter-bombers, from the 10^th Air Force, support ground forces in the Pinbaw area. Meanwhile, nine B-25s bomb Katha, 12 fighter-bombers pound the town areas of Nanyinbya and Bilumyo and 12 other fighter-bombers attack artillery positions and storage areas in the Momauk area.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound airfields on Ambon and Ceram Islands and Boeroe Island, in the Sunda Islands. B- 25s strafe installations at Dili, on Timor Island, on Moloe Island and Kai Islands, in the Molucca Islands, and B-25s sink a transport vessel off Halmahera Island. In New Guinea, A-20s bomb the Klamono oil fields, while fighter-bombers hit gun positions, storage areas, and other targets at Ransiki and Manokwari and troop concentrations along the north shore of MacCluer Gulf. On Biak Island P-40s, supporting ground forces landing at Wardo, pound shore positions and troops inland as the enemy remnants on Biak Island break up into small groups. P-39s strafe troops from Cape Wom to the the Dandriwad River and near But, and hit gun positions at Marubian.

 

On Noemfoor, the 503^rd Parachute Infantry regains contact with the enemy and overcomes the last organized resistance.

 

On Biak, the 1^st Battalion, of the 186^th Infantry, less Company B, but reinforced by Company E, lands from mechanized landing craft (LCM’s) at Wardo Bay, against token resistance. After this, enemy remnants on Biak break up into small groups, without the hope of making a further stand.

 

In the Vogelkop area, General Barnes, of the XIII Air Task Force, reports that the airstrip on Middleburg Island, is ready for fighters, a day ahead of schedule.

 

The 13^th Air Force moves the 5^th Bomb Group (Heavy) from Los Negros Island to Wakde Island, and the 68^th Fighter Squadron, of the 347^th Fighter Group, with P-38s, from Bougainville Island, in the Solomon Islands, to Middleburg Island.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from Saipan Island, bomb Iwo Jima Island. B-25s, based on Makin Island, hit Ponape Island.

[dschneck]

Friday, August 18,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK)

8^th Air Force Mission 561 – 52 B-24s are dispatched to hit the Roye/Amy Airfield, in France, and 10 hit targets of opportunity. Fighter escort is provided by 99 P-51s. Two B-24s are lost, with 23 men listed as killed or missing.

 

The RAF dispatches 158 Lancasters and 11 Mosquitos to attack a German supply depot at L'Isle-Adam near Paris. Meanwhile, 64 Lancasters and five Mosquitos hit oil storage depots at Bordeaux and Ertvelde Rieme, near Ghent, Belgium, while 16 Halifaxes and 16 Lancasters attack seven flying-bomb sites, and 23 Lancasters hit the U-boat pens at La Pallice.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 562 – 720 bombers and 242 fighters are dispatched against bridges, airfields, fuel dumps and an aircraft engine factory in France and Belgium.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 216 Lancasters, 65 Halifaxes, and seven Mosquitos to Bremen. Elsewhere, 210 Halifaxes, 14 Mosquitos, and 10 Lancasters attack the synthetic oil plant at Stekrade, and 122 Halifaxes, 18 Lancasters, and four Mosquitos attack a railway station and yards 70 miles east of Paris, at Connantre. Meanwhile, 108 Lancasters and five Mosquitos hit the oil depot and storage tanks at Ertvelde Rieme, north of Ghent.

 

European Theater, Battle of Normandy

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of nearly 100 B-26s and A-20s to hit a fuel dump, ammunition dump, rail and road overpass, rail embankment, and junction beyond the battle line to disorganize retreating German forces. Over 1,000 fighters fly cover over ground forces in the Argentan- Paris area, along the Seine River, and armed reconnaissance over northern and western France.

 

In British Second Army area, VIII Corps, now pinched out, is held in reserve. Its transport is used by other units driving toward the Seine. XXX Corps is rapidly reducing the enemy pocket from the north. The 11^th Armoured Division reaches Putanges and Ecouché. XXII Corps, also compressing the enemy pocket, continues southeast toward Argentan.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s II Corps area, the Canadian 4^th Armoured Division seizes Trun and continues southeast in conjunction with the Polish 1^st Armored Division to the left. Stiff fighting develops in the Chambois area as the enemy counterattacking in an attempts to keep an escape corridor open.

 

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 2^nd Division, moving from the First Army zone to Brest, in order to relieve the 6^th Armored Division, is attached to VIII Corps. In the XV Corps area, the 5^th Armored Division and 79^th Infantry Division drive quickly toward the Seine River at Mantes- Gassicourt. In the XX Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division takes over the bridgehead at Dreux, while the 5^th Division moves to Chartres. In the XII Corps area, the 35^th Division finishes mopping up in Orléans and begins moving to the Janville area. The 4^th Armored Division continues to clear the region near Orléans.

 

The US First Army, while reducing the Argentan– Falaise pocket, regroups in preparation for a future action. VII Corps mops up, maintains contact with the British at Briouze, and prepares to renew their offensive. V Corps, with the 90^th Division on the right and the 80^th Division on the left, attacks northward to close the Falaise–Argentan gap.

 

Eastern Europe
Sandomierz, on the west bank of the Vistula River, falls to troops of the First Ukrainian Front.

 

The Germans continue to counterattack strongly in the Siauliai area, of Lithuania, in an effort to reopen communications with Baltic forces.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of 370 B-17s and B-24s, escorted by fighters, to bomb five oil refineries around Ploesti, Rumania. Meanwhile, 89 B-24s, with fighter cover, bomb the Alibunar Airfield, in Yugoslavia.

 

In US Seventh Army area in southern France, VI Corps overruns the enemy’s primary defenses in the coastal sector, while the 7^th Infantry, of the 3^rd Division, continues west along Highway 98, and the 30^th and 15^th Regiments drive west along Highway 7, south of the Argens River. The 30^th Infantry begins an assault on Brignoles, where fighting continues throughout the night. Combat Command 1, of the French 1^st Armored Division, which has moved forward between the 3^rd and 45^th Divisions, overcomes enemy opposition in the Cabasse–Carces region. The 45^th Division’s 179^th Infantry begins an assault on Barjols, where the enemy is putting up strong delaying opposition. The Provisional Armored Group, headed by the Deputy Commander of VI Corps, Brigadier General Frederick Butler, and called Task Force Butler, starts northwest from the Le Muy area to spearhead an advance inland toward Grenoble. The 36^th Division, which is to follow Task Force Butler northward, moves elements against Callian, east of Fayence, where a group of paratroopers is surrounded by the enemy. The 143^rd Infantry, upon relief by the 141^st Infantry, moves to the assembly area at Draguignan.

 

In the French Army B area, the 2^nd Corps begins a drive toward Marseille, with the 3^rd Algerian Division.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers blast French coastal guns in the Toulon area and shipping in Toulon harbor. Fighters and fighter-bombers closely support beachhead troops, hit rolling stock and rail lines, and generally disrupt communications in support of ground operations in southeastern France.

 

The US Fifth Army takes command of XIII Corps, of the British Eighth Army, in place.

 

In the US II Corps zone, the 85^th Division relieves the 91^st Division in line, below Fucecchio and the 91^st begins training near Certaldo.

 

In the British Eighth Army area, Polish 2 Corps starts a preliminary attack toward the Gothic Line, in the Adriatic sector, crossing the Cesano River, with the Italian Corps of Liberation, previously the Utili Division, on the left, the 5^th Kresowa Division in the center, and the 3^rd Carpathian Division on the right.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 12 B-25s to bomb storage areas at Mangshih, China, while six others pound a storage area at Changsha, and a group of over 60 P- 40s, P-51s, and P-38s, on armed reconnaissance, attack troops, town areas, bridges, and other targets of opportunity in east Burma.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, a group of 16 P-47s and P-51s, from the 10^th Air Force, knock out a road bridge, attack town areas, and hit general targets of opportunity in the Bhamo area. Meanwhile, four P-47s knock out both approaches to a bridge in Hsenwi, while a troop concentration in Moda is pounded by a group of 15 P-47s and P-51s and an A-36. Elsewhere, a group of 39 P-47s, P-40s and P-51s closely support ground forces in various Pinbaw area sectors, and eight P-47s sweep the Lashio Airfield, strafing several targets of opportunity.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Armed reconnaissance missions continue over wide stretches of the Southwest Pacific Area including Ambon- Ceram, the Palau Islands, and the Halmahera Islands, attacking several targets of opportunity. In New Guinea, fighter-bombers and A-20s pound troops and a storage area at Suain and hit defensive lines near Sarmi.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s, from Saipan Island, bomb and strafe Pagan Island.

[dschneck]

Saturday, August 19,1944

 

European Theater, (POINTBLANK) 8^th Air Force

The RAF dispatches 52 Lancasters to bomb two groups of oil storage tanks at La Pallice, but the targets were difficult to identify and the effects of the bombing could not be seen. Meanwhile, one Wellington flies a “signals watch” sorte.

 

European Theater, Northern France

In France, 9^th Air Force fighters cover ground forces in the battle areas and fly armed reconnaissance along the Seine River and surrounding areas and in wide areas around Paris, Orleans, and Tours.

 

In British Second Army’s XXX Corps zone, the 11^th Armored Division reaches the Argentan–Bailleu area. In the XXII Corps area, the 53^rd Division is approaching the Bailleu–Trun region.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s II Corps area, the Canadian 4^th Armoured Division takes St Lambert sur Dives, on the Trun-Chambois road, and holds it against lively counterattacks. A patrol of the Polish 1^st Armored Division makes contact with US V Corps at Chambois. The Falaise–Argentan trap is closed as Canadian II Corps elements reach the junction with US V Corps troops at Chambois. The German Seventh Army and elements of the Fifth Panzer Army are encircled. In the British I Corps area, forward elements are crossing the La Vie River, although considerable resistance continues to the rear.

 

In US Third Army’s XV Corps area, the 79^th Division Task Force enters Mantes-Gassicourt, which is clear of enemy. The 5^th Armored Division starts north along the west bank of the Seine River toward Louviers, to cut off the enemy retreat across the river. In the XX Corps area, the 5^th Division completes its mop up of Chartres.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 80^th Division is closing in on Argentan, as the 90^th Division reaches Chambois and at 1930 hours and contacts a Polish patrol, closing the Falaise–Argentan gap. XIX Corps attacks north toward Evreux from Brezolle, west of Dreux, with the 2^nd Armored Division on the left and the 30^th Division on the right, to cut off the enemy from the Seine River between, Paris and Elbeuf. The 28^th Division is concentrating in Mortagne area.

 

As a result of general uprising of French resistance forces in Paris, the Germans ask for and are granted a truce to last until August 23, so that they may withdraw troops.

 

Major General Manton Eddy takes command of XII Corps, relieving General Cook.

 

German Field Marshal von Kluge commits suicide.

 

European Theater, Southern France

The US Seventh Army directs VI Corps to seize Aix en Provence, while French Army B continues its drives on the ports of Toulon and Marseille, and takes responsibility for the region south of Highway 7. In the VI Corps area, the 3^rd Division completes the capture of Brignoles and speeds west along Highway 7 toward Aix en Provence. The 179^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, overcomes opposition at Barjols and thus opens the route to the lower Durance Valley, afterwhich they continue to advance to Rians. The Main body of Task Force Butler crosses the Durance River, at Oraison, and moves north along the west bank to Sisteron. Detachments moving north from Riez and along the east bank of the Durance River to intercept enemy forces moving southward from Grenoble, converge on Digne, where the enemy surrenders. The 141^st Infantry, of the 36^th Division, clears Callian after indecisive fighting throughout day.

 

In the French Army B’s II Corps area, the 1^st Armored Division is protecting the north flank of II Corps. The 3^rd Algerian Division, after driving through Méounes, on the northern road to Marseille, splits into three groups, called Linares, Bonjour, and Chapuis, with Linares turning south into the hills north of Toulon. The 9^th Colonial Division starts west from the Collobrières area to outflank the enemy in the Hyères–Toulon region from the north. On the southern flank, the 1^st Division moves along the coastal road toward Hyères, until stopped by heavy fire near the town, then sends elements north to outflank enemy.

 

Mediterranean Theater

Bombing the Ploesti, Rumania area for the fourth consecutive day, 65 B-17s, from the 15^th Air Force, supported by 125 P-51s, blast two oil refineries.

 

Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force A-20s hit marshalling yards while B-25s and B-26s bomb road and rail bridges throughout southeastern France. Fighter-bombers and fighters continue to pound enemy communications north and west of the beachhead, and guns in the immediate battle area.

 

On the ground in Italy, in British Eighth Army’s Polish 2 Corps area, the 3^rd Carpathian Division is slowed in the coastal sector by opposition at southern Constanzo.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 25 B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb Puchi, severely damaging the warehouse area. Meanwhile, 11 B-25s hit Sienning, three hit railroad tracks and a runway north of Hengyang, and a group of over 70 P-40s and P-51s, on armed reconnaissance, attack river shipping, troops, trucks, and other targets of opportunity at or near Pengtse, Hengyang, Chaling, Yoyang, Siangtan, and Changsha.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, four P-47s, from the 10^th Air Force, support ground forces southwest of Thaikwagon, and four others strafe trucks carrying troops between Bhamo and Myothit.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Weather restricts Far East Air Force (FEAF) operations. In New Guinea, P-40s bomb the port of Napido, P-39s bomb and strafe coastal positions along the west shore of Geelvink Bay, A-20s, operating in force in support of ground troops, pound targets in the Sawar-Sarmi sector, and P-39s support ground forces in the Wewak area;

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s, based on Saipan Island, bomb installations on Anatahan Island, in the Mariana Islands, and drop fire-bombs on Tinian Island to aid ground forces in mopping-up operations.

 

Alaska Theater

In the Aleutian Islands, an 11^th Air Force weather sortie and a four plane shipping sweep are flown with negative results.

[dschneck]

Sunday, 20 August ,1944

 

European Theater 8^th Air Force

The RAF sends three Mosquitos on Ranger patrols and one Wellington on “signals watch.”

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches seven aircraft to lay mines off La Pallice.

 

European Theater, Northern France

The 9^th Air Force sends 61 B-26s to bomb troop and equipment concentrations waiting at Foret de la Lande to be ferried across the Seine River. Fighters fly armed reconnaissance along the Seine River, support ground troops in the battle area, and fly an escort mission for over 100 C-47s on a supply and evacuation run.

 

General Montgomery directs the 21^st Army Group to eliminate the Falaise–Argentan Pocket before driving to the Seine River. Elements of the 12th Army Group are to drive north across the British front to the lower Seine, in order to cut off the enemy retreat.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, the British I Corps crosses additional elements over La Vie River. The British 7^th Armoured Division captures Livarot. The Canadian II Corps frustrates final desperate enemy attempt to escape from the Falaise–Argentan Pocket.

 

The British Second Army heads for the Seine River, passing through US forces in the Argentan area.

 

In US Third Army’s XV Corps area, the 79^th Division establishes a bridgehead across the Seine River, near Mantes-Gassicourt. The 5^th Armored Division continues north, toward Louviers. XX Corps attacks east toward the Seine River, with the 7^th Armored Division on the north and the 5^th Division on the south, in an effort to gain bridgeheads at Melun and Montereau. XII Corps attacks for a bridgehead over the Yonne River at Sens, with the 4^th Armored Division spearheading.

 

In US First Army’s V Corps area, the 80^th Division overcomes moderate resistance at Argentan. XIX Corps continues north, with elements forging the Aure River between Verneuil and Nonancourt.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 3^rd Division reaches the suburbs of Aix en Provence. The 7^th Infantry, upon relief by the French in the coastal sector, joins the 3^rd Division. The 45^th Division’s 157^th Infantry crosses the Durance River in the St. Paul area, using a partially destroyed bridge, and takes Mirabeau and Pertuis. The 180^th Infantry, advancing along southern bank of the river, takes Peyrolles and Meyrargues. Task Force Butler blocks routes running south from Grenoble. The 36^th Division, relieved of defensive positions on eastern flank of VI Corps by the 1^st Airborne Task Force, moves northwest behind Task Force Butler. The 1st Airborne Task Force is placed under direct command of the Seventh Army and made responsible for the region generally along a line from Fayence to La Napoule.

 

In French Army B’s II Corps area, while Chapuis Group, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, and elements of the 1^st Armored Division continue west toward Marseille on the northern flank, Chapuis Group reaching Le Camp, Linares Group continues to work southward through the hills overlooking Toulon, and Bonjour Group turns southeast toward Toulon. The 9^th Colonial Division and the 1^st Infantry Division isolate Hyères. A frontal assault against the eastern outskirts by the 1^st Division fails.

 

Eastern Europe
the Red Army opens an offensive against Rumania. Troops of the Second and Third Ukrainian Fronts push forward, with strong air and artillery support, toward Iasi and Kishinev.

 

The Germans continue their efforts to reopen communications with their Baltic forces.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 460 B-24s and B-17s, some with fighter-escorted, to bomb the airfield and marshalling yard at Szolnok, Hungary, and oil refineries at Dubova, Czechoslovakia, and Czechowice and Auschwitz, Poland.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-26s, joined by fighter-bombers and fighters, hit coastal defense guns in the Toulon area, while B-25s bomb Rhone Valley bridges and airfields, achieving especially good results at the airfield near Valence.

 

US Fifth Army regroups extensively in preparation for an attack. IV Corps, with Task Force 45 and the 1^st Armored Division under command, takes over most of the Fifth Army front, spreading thin along a 55 mile line. The 85^th Division, in positions formerly held by the New Zealand 2^nd Division, is placed temporarily under IV Corps, pending the arrival of the South African 6^th Armored Division. In the II Corps area, Regimental Combat Team 442, less the 100th Nisei Battalion, attached to the 88th Division, occupies a 5 mile sector west of Florence, replacing British units.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (India)

The 20^th Air Force sends 61 B-29s, based at Chengtu, China, to bomb the Imperial Iron and Steel Works at Yawata, Japan. During the night day, 10 more B-29s follow up on the daylight raid. 14 B-29s are lost, including one anti-aircraft fire and four to enemy aircraft (one by air-to-air bombing and one by ramming. B-29 gunners shoot down 17 enemy aircraft.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, four B-25s and seven P-40s, from the 14^th Air Force, damage buildings and a pontoon bridge and strafe about 30 sampans in the Hengyang area. Meanwhile, 13 P-40s hit buildings, trucks, and river shipping in the Hengshan area, and a group of over 60 P-40s and P-51s attack numerous trucks, rivercraft, and general targets of opportunity at Tingka, Anjen, Yangtien, south of Yoyang, between Hankow and Chinchiang, and between Sinshih and Changsha.

 

On the Salween front. after mines under enemy positions on Sung Shan are exploded, Chinese troops with flame throwers clear this feature, which has held out for so long, but scattered pockets of enemy remain around Sung Shan.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a group of 24 P-47s and P-51s to fly close support strikes for ground forces immediately south of Thaikwagon, Burma. Four P-51s hit targets of opportunity at Myintha and Aledaw.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

The Commander of Task Force 77 issues Operations Plan 8– 44 for the Morotai operation.

 

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the town and airfield at Namlea, on Buru Island, and others pound personnel areas and warehouses at Tobelo, on Halmahara Island. In New Guinea, B-25s bomb the Langgoer Airfield, P-39s hit Windissi and enemy shipping off Manokwari while P- 40s pound gun positions, buildings and stores at Manokwari. Other P-40s support ground forces by hitting troop concentrations at Napido, while A-20s and fighter-bombers hit a personnel center near Marubian, supplies at Wom, and numerous targets during coastal sweeps in the Wewak general area.

General Krueger declares the Biak operation at an end. The 41^st Division continues to mop up Biak for some months to come.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, based on Saipan Island, hit Yap Island for the first time. A B-24 bombs Alamagan Island, in the Mariana Islands, while P-47s pound Pagan Island. B-24s, based in the Marshall Islands, bomb Truk Atoll.

 

Alaska Theater

In the Aleutian Islands, 4 B-25s, from the 11^th Air Force, fly a negative shipping sweep.

[dschneck]

Monday, August 21,1944

 

European Theater, Northern France

Bad weather grounds all 9^th Air Force bombers and fighters, however less than 20 C-47s are able to fly supply and evacuation missions.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, II Corps, leaving the Polish 1^st Armored Divisiion and the Canadian 3^rd Division to complete the reduction of the Falaise–Argentan Pocket, drives east toward the Seine River at Rouen.

 

In the British Second Army’s XXX Corps area, the 11^th Armoured Division, spearheading for XXX Corps, bypasses Gacé and drives on toward Laigle.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, the 80^th Division is relieved of the responsibility for its sector near Argentan by British XXX Corps. The 102^nd Cavalry Group, which has closed in the Sées area, begins a reconnaissance northeast of Sées and east of Exmes. VII Corps commits the 9^th Division in a defensive role in the Mortagne area. In XIX Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division bypasses Verneuil and advances toward Breteuil. The 28^th Division moves up to clear Verneuil. The 30^th Division overruns Nonancourt.

 

In US Third Army’s XV Corps area, while the 79^th Division improves and expands the bridgehead across the Seine River, in the Mantes-Gassicourt area, the 5^th Armored Division continues north toward Louviers. In XX Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division drives to the Arpajon–Rambouillet area. The 5^th Division overruns Etampes. In XII Corps area, the 4^th Armored Division captures Sens. The 35^th Division pushes through Pithiviers.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In US Seventh Army area, 1^st Airborne Task Force begins clearing the coastal sector around La Napoule, in preparation for a drive on Cannes. In VI Corps area, the 30^th Infantry, of the 3^rd\ Division, assisted by Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI), takes Aix en Provence, from which most Germans have withdrawn. General Truscott orders the 3^rd Division to halt on a line from Le Puy to Rognac, until the strength of enemy armor can be determined. 45^th Division columns are moving on Avignon, Apt, and Volonne. Task Force Butler, turning over roadblocks below Grenoble to the 36^th Division, drives west through Die and Crest to the Rhône River Valley, destroying an enemy vehicle convoy north of Livron. The 36^th Division shuttles to the Grenoble corridor to relieve Task Force Butler and continues across the Durance River toward Grenoble. They are then ordered to provide reinforcements for Task Force Butler in Rhône River Valley.

 

In the French Army B area, II Corps continues to drive on Toulon and Marseille. The 1^st Division takes Hyères, on the eastern approach to Toulon. Groupe de Commandos takes Mt. Coudon and Linares Group, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, neutralizes Mt. Caumes, both hilltop fortresses north of Toulon. Bonjour Group, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, gets reconnaissance elements to Bandol, on the coast west of Toulon, completing the investment of Toulon. Chapuis Group, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, and elements of the 1^st Armored Division, continue west on the northern flank of II Corps, toward Marseille, reaching Aubagne.

 

Eastern Europe
Continuing their counteroffensive, the Germans regain Tukums, 35 miles east of Riga.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches 117 B-24s, escorted by P-51s, to bomb the Nish Airfield, in Yugoslavia. Meanwhile, 102 B-24s, with P-51escort, hit the Hajduboszormeny Airfield, in Hungary. After which 46 other P-51s sweep the airfield, with some making low-level strafings on parked aircraft.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers hit roads and bridges in the Po River Valley, and bomb Alessandria barracks. Fighter-bombers and fighters again blast enemy communications lines and gun positions in southern France, marshalling yard and rail lines at Alessandria and Casale Monferrato, and motor transport and train cars in northwestern Italy, and southeastern France.

 

Allied Armies in Italy (AAI) orders the US Fifth Army, which has been pretending to build up forces in the vicinity of Pisa and Fucecchio, to extend its feigned concentrations, particularly in the Florence area, to cover preparations for the main British Eighth Army push.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s II Corps area, the 88^th Division sends the 350^th Infantry to Leghorn to assist IV Corps. British XIII Corps prepares for limited operations across the Arno River, since the enemy appears to be withdrawing.

 

In the British Eighth Army area, Polish II Corps continues northward in the Adriatic sector, forcing the enemy to withdraw behind the Metauro River,during the night.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, eight B-25s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb Anjen and targets of opportunity in the surrounding area, while seven others attack the Hengyang Airfield, the town of Nanyo, and several buildings and other targets of opportunity near Yangtien. Meanwhile, over 90 fighter-bombers hit town areas, river and road traffic, and other targets of opportunity at Pengtse, Kinhwa, Tenchung, Anjen, Hengyang, and Yangtsishih; south of Sintsaing, north of Tungting Lake, between Hankow and Sinti, and in the Changsha area.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, six B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, knock out and damage three river bridges in the Mu area and at Hsipaw, while 36 P-51s support ground forces near Pinlon, Ingyingon, and Nansankyin, and 8 P-51s bomb a storage area at Chyahkan.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In the Molucca Islands, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s blast supply dumps and anti-aircraft guns on the Wasile Bay coast, while B-25s hit the Kaoe Airfield and town on Halmahera Island, and villages and supply areas on Karakelong Island. In New Guinea, fighter-bombers blast warehouses and other targets in the Manokwari area, while A-20s and fighter-bombers hit supply dumps in the Sawar-Sarmi sector and attack troops along the coast, particularly from Babiang to Luain.

 

In Wakde-Sarmi area, Regimental Combat Team 20 reverts to the 6^th Division from their attachment to the 31^st Division.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from Saipan Island, hit Yap Island, while P-47s bomb Pagan Island, and B-25s, based on Makin Island, hit Nauru Island.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, 22 August ,1944

 

European Theater, Northern France

9^th Air Force bomber operations are cancelled because of weather. In France, fighters fly sweeps, provide air cover for two infantry and one armored division, strafe numerous military and transportation targets, and fly armed reconnaissance from Evreux to Troyes

 

The 9^th Air Force moves the 387^th Bomb Group (Medium) from England to France. Maupertus

 

The 93 Troop Carrier Squadron, 439 Troop Carrier Group, ceases operating from Membury and returns to base at Upottery, England with C-47s.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s British I Corps area, Deauville falls to the Belgian Brigade, under the command of the British 6^th Airborne Division. The 6^th Airborne Division is engaging enemy in Pont Evêque area. The British 49^th Division crosses the Touques near Pont Evêque. The British 7^th Armoured Division thrusts beyond the Touques, passing through the southern outskirts of Lisieux. II Corps, less those elements still mopping up the Falaise–Argentan pocket, reaches the Touques River.

 

In British Second Army’s XXX Corps area, the 11^th Armoured Division, speeding eastward, reaches Laigle.

 

In the US First Army’s V Corps area, British XXX Corps units relieve the 80^th Division, from which Combad Command L is detached and reverts to the French 2^nd Armored Division. The 80^th Division and the 90^th Divisions assemble for maintenance and rehabilitation while awaiting new orders. V Corps, now entirely out of contact with enemy, is given the mission of freeing Paris. The French 2^nd Armored Division is alerted for the task. The 4^th Division is transferred to V Corps from VII Corps. Advance into Paris is to begin at the conclusion of the German-Forces Françaises de l’Intérieur (FFI) armistice on August 23. In the XIX Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division continues steadily northward, overrunning Breteuil, while the 28^th Division clears Verneuil. The 30^th Division reaches the vicinity of Evreux.

 

In US Third Army’s XV Corps area, the 79^th Division holds the Mantes-Gassicourt bridgehead against an enemy counterattack. The 5^th Armored Division continues north toward Louviers, despite strong opposition between the Eure and Seine rivers. XX Corps speeds toward Melun and Montereau, with the 7^th Armored Division approaching Melun and the 5^th Division threatening Fontainebleau. In the XII Corps area, the 4^th Armored Division, continuing east from Sens, overcomes opposition at Villeneuve. The 35^th Division reaches the western outskirts of Montargis. In the VIII Corps area, the main body of the 29^th Division is moving west by motor transport to Brest.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In US Seventh Army area, the 1^st Airborne Task Force is reinforced by 1^st Special Service Force, which is committed in the center to replace the British 2^nd Parachute Brigade. Regimental Combat Team 517 is given the task of patrolling the roads west and south of the Larche Pass and maintaining contact with friendly forces to the west.

 

In the VI Corps area, the 3^rd Division improves its positions on the left flank of VI Corps. Elements of the 157^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, and Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI) clear Apt, while the 180^th Infantry reduces light rearguard opposition in the Rognes area, and the 179^th Infantry moves toward Grenoble to join the 36^th Division. 36^th Division units take Grenoble without opposition and reconnoiter beyond there without incident. Regimental Combat Team 141 starts west to the Rhône Valley to back up Task Force Butler in the Montélimar area and emplaces two field artillery battalions near Marsanne, to fire across the the Rhône River. Regimental Combat Team 142 arrives at Gap.

 

In the French Army B area, the USS Omaha accepts the surrender of the garrison of Porquerolles Island, off Giens Peninsula. In the II Corps area, while the 1^st Division continues west toward Toulon along the coast against strong resistance, Linares Group, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, seizes Mt. Faron, the last of the big hilltop fortresses north of Toulon. Meanwhile, the 9^th Colonial Division forces the enemy from La Vallette, northeast of Toulon. With reduction of Mt. Faron, a way is opened into Toulon through the Dardennes ravine. On the north flank, Chapuis Group, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, and elements of 1^st Armored Division invest Marseille.

 

Eastern Europe
The offensive against Rumania by troops of the Second and Third Ukrainian Fronts is overwhelming the enemy. Iasi falls to forces of the Second Ukrainian Front.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of about 530 B-17s and B-24s, supported by P-51s and P-38s, to bomb targets in Austria and Germany. B-17s bomb oil refineries at Odertal, Germany, while B-24s bomb oil refineries at Korneuburg, Austria and Blechhammer, Germany, and oil storage at Lobau, Austria.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

Weather restricts 12^th Air Force operation in southeastern France. B-26s attack targets in the Po River Valley, of Italy, where they destroy a bridge and severely damage another. A-20s hit industrial buildings in southern France; while fighters hit motor transport west of the Rhone River and in scattered parts of southeastern France.

 

In British Eighth Army area, Polish II Corps occupies the south bank of the Metauro River from San Ippolito to the coast. The Italian Corps of Liberation, moving up on the left flank, reaches Cagli, southwest of San Ippolito.

 

China – Burma – India Theater

Admiral Mountbatten returns to Ceylon from London, having presented his views on strategy there.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends a group of 11 P-40s and P-38s to hit bridges and road targets around Tingka, Mangshih, Loiwing, and Pangpying, in China, Meanwhile, six others attack a landing strip and river traffic at an island near Foochow.

 

On the Salween front, Japanese remnants around Sung Shan make futile counterattacks against Chinese forces.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

10^th Air Force P-51s and P-47s fly 53 sorties against Tengchung, China, in support of attacking Chinese forces. In Burma, 28 P- 47s attack buildings, supply dumps, troops, and gun positions near Ingyingon, Nansankyin, and Pinlon, while eight P-47s strafe targets of opportunity between Tingka, China, and Bhamo. Meanwhile, two rocket-firing P-51s seriously damage several buildings at Aledaw, and nine B-25s bomb Hopin.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, Far East Air Force (FEAF) fighter-bombers continue to blast supply and personnel targets in Manokwari and the surrounding areas. Fighter-bombers again hit north coastal areas, including shipping facilities at Wewak, a barge terminal on Mushu Island, and trains and troop positions at various coastal points

 

Task Force TRADEWIND, the main force for operations against Morotai, issues Field Order No. 1.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, based on Saipan Island, bomb airfields on Yap and Pagan Islands, while P-47s pound the airfield on Pagan Island and anti-aircraft emplacements. Meanwhile, B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, hit Mille Atoll, in the Marshall Islands.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, August 23,1944

 

European Theater

The 8^th Air Force sends 163 P-47s to bomb and strafe rail transportation from St Omer to Reims, France.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 46 Mosquitos to attacked Cologne. Eight other Mosquitos attacked Homberg, Castrop-Rauxel and the Venlo Airfield.

 

European Theater, Northern France

The 9^th Air Force sends four B-26s to drop leaflets in the Lisieux-Bernay area, of France. Meanwhile, fighters fly cover for ground forces, sweeps, and armed reconnaissance over the battle areas, and along the Seine River, attacking artillery positions. Elsewhere, over 150 C-47s fly supply and evacuation missions and several hundred reconnaissance aircraft fly tactical, visual, photographic, and artillery adjustment reconnaissance missions.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, British I Corps continues to make slow progress in the coastal sector. II Corps is heavily engaged in the vicinity of Orbec.

 

In the British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, mechanized patrols reach Bernay. In the XXX Corps area, the 50^th Division reaches the Verneuil–Breteuil area, where it halts while US XIX Corps moves across its front toward Elbeuf.

 

12 Army Group attaches XV Corps and its 5^th Armored Division and 79^th Infantry Division to the First Army, effective 0600 hours on Aughust 24. This alters the boundary between the First and Third Armies to run along a line from Chartres to Melun.

 

In US First Army’s V Corps area, the French 2^nd Armored Division, reinforced by Troop B, of the 102^nd Cavalry Squadron, starts toward Paris along two routes to assist Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI) forces in taking the city, but is halted in the Versailles–Bois de Meudon area by strongpoints and roadblocks. The 4^th Division, preceded by the 102^nd Cavalry Group, less Troop B, follows the French armor along the southern route and reaches Arpajon, south of Paris. In the XIX Corps area, one 2^nd Armored Division column, bypassing Conches, which the 28^th Division clears, reaches Le Neubourg, while another drives toward Elbeuf. The 30^th Division finds Evreux free of enemy and makes contact with the 5^th Armored Division, of XV Corps, on the right.

 

In the US Third Army’s XV Corps area, the 79^th Division maintains a Seine bridgehead at Mantes-Gassicourt, while the 5^th Armored Division continues clearing the region west of the Seine. In the XX Corps area, the 5^th Division takes Fontainebleau and continues toward Montereau, while the 7^th Armored Division closes in on Melun. In the XII Corps area, the 35^th Division overruns Montargis.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In the US Seventh Army area, engineers are preparing a way for entry of the 1^st Airborne Task Force into Cannes, which patrols report is clear of enemy troops. The 1^st Special Sevice Force prepares to attack Grasse, an important road junction on the Route Napoleon, also known as Highway 85.

 

VI Corps concentrates on intercepting the German withdrawal up the Rhône Valley to Lyon, with the 141^st Infantry, of the 36^th Division. They box-in the valley and occupy the enemy’s main line of resistance from the Drôme River to the Montélimar area. Task Force Butler is disposed to support the 141^st Infantry and provide flank protection, while the 2^nd Battalion, of the 141^st Infantry, assisted by French Maquis and artillery fire of Task Force Butler from Condillac Pass, attacks southward toward Montélimar, on Highway 7, but fails in the first of many efforts to take the town. To free additional elements of the 36^th Division for action in the Rhône Valley, the 180^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, relieves the 142^nd Infantry of defensive positions in the northern part of the east (right) flank of VI Corps. The 179^th Infantry is attached to the 36^th Division in the Grenoble area. The 3^rd Division works northwest toward the Rhône River and finds Martigues clear.

 

In the French Army B’s II Corps area, the 9^th Colonial Division and the 1^st Infantry Division break into the eastern part of Toulon and press forward to the center of city. After a battery on Cap de l’Esterel, at the east tip of the Giens Peninsula, surrenders, French troops land on the peninsula and clear it without opposition. The Chapuis Group, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, assisted by Goums and Combat Command I, of the 1^st Armored Division, breaks into the suburbs of Marseille, from the east and north. Efforts to induce the garrison to surrender fail.

 

Eastern Europe
King Michael surrenders Rumania unconditionally to Soviet forces.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of 472 B-24s and B-17s, supported by P-51s and P-38s, to bomb the south industrial area of Vienna, the Wiener-Neudorf aircraft engine factory, a Vosendorf oil refinery, and the Markersdorf Airfield, all in Austria. They also hit targets at Ferrara, Italy, missing a river bridge but hitting a synthetic rubber factory.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In Italy, 12^th Air Force medium bombers attack road and rail bridges north of the Arno River and roads leading north from Florence. They also hit bridges in the Rhone Valley, of France. Widespread haze in parts of France and Italy prevent accurate bombing, but fighter-bombers continue to attack communications, gun positions, and road movements in the Provence battle areas.

 

In US Fifth Army’s IV Corps area, advance elements of Regimental Combat Team 370, of the 92^nd Division , take over part of the zone held by the 1^st Armored Division.

 

China – Burma – India Theater

The US War Department notifies General Stilwell that operations to open a land route to China must be limited to the construction of a two-way, all-weather road to Myitkyina, and the opening of a trail from there to China. This decision is made in order to increase manpower for Pacific offensives but limits the tonnage destined to China, over the Ledo Road.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends seven B-25s and 21 fighter-bombers to attack villages, compounds, and targets of opportunity near Hengyang, Lingyang, and Anjen, China. Meanwhile, over 40 fighter-bombers hit villages, shipping, troops, supplies, and other targets of opportunity around Ichang, Yangtien, Siangtan, and Yiyang, and south of Sungpai and Siangyin.

 

On the Salween front, the Japanese commander at Lungling calls for reinforcements.

 

General Hearn presents a message from President Roosevelt to Chiang Kai-Shek, urging that General Stilwell be put in command of Chinese forces soon and commenting on conditions proposed by Chinese. General Hearn also informs General Chennault that his proposal to send US supplies to east China for the recapture of Heng-yang is refused.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 32 P-47s to support British advances down the railroad in the Pinbaw area, hitting gun positions, troops, and headquarters buildings immediately north of Pinbaw, and along Nansonti Creek. Meanwhile, six P-47s pound Onsansaing, and eight P-51s bomb an encampment near Kadu. In China, four P-51s hit Lungling and Mangshih, while five others attack guns, a fuel dump, and other targets of opportunity along the Burma Road from Wanling to Lungling. Seven more hit buildings and vehicles during sweeps of the general Mangshih-Chefang area, and 12 P-51s hit targets of opportunity southwest of Lungling, as two P-40s strafe trucks at Chefang.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound the Galela, Halmahera Island area. In New Guinea, B-24s hit the Langgoer Airfield and Saumlakki, while fighter-bombers hit the airfield at Nabire, Moemi, and Urarom, the village of Moari, and town of Manokwari, and B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers continue to attack barge hideouts, troops, villages, and general targets of opportunity around Wewak.

 

On Noemfoor, the 503^rd Parachute Infantry begins concentration in the Kamiri airdrome area, leaving three companies behind to patrol the southern part of Noemfoor.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from Saipan Island, bomb Yap and Iwo Jima islands, while P-47s hit Pagan and Aguijan islands, in the Mariana Islands. Meanwhile, B-25s, based on Gilbert Island, attack Ponape Island.

[dschneck]

Thursday, August 24,1944

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 568 – 1,319 bombers and 739 fighters are dispatched on visual attacks to strategic targets in Germany.

 

The RAF dispatches 53 Halifaxes to attack shipping in Brest harbour, while 22 Lancasters and one Mosquito bomb the E-boat pens at Ijmuiden.

 

During the night, the RAF sends six Halifaxes to lay mines off La Pallice.

 

European Theater, Northern France

Bad weather in France cancels a 9^th Air Force bomber mission against four fuel dumps north of the Seine River. Fighters give air cover to ground forces, mainly for three armored and two infantry divisions, bomb the Seine River bridges, and fly armed reconnaissance along the Seine and around Troyes, Orleans, and Tours. Meanwhile, about 270 C-47s fly supply and evacuation missions.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, British I Corps extends the right flank to St Georges du Vièvre, on the Risle River. In the II Corps area, the Canadian 2^nd Division seizes Bernay and establishes a bridgehead across the Risle River, at Nassandres. Contact is made with the US XIX Corps in the Elbeuf area.

 

In the British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, the 15^th Division is concentrating near Le Neubourg in preparation for an attack across the Seine River, at Louviers.

 

In the US First Army area, XIX Corps moves closer to Elbeuf and is interdicting the Seine River crossing sites with artillery fire. In the XV Corps area, the 5^th Armored Division reaches Houdebouville. In the V Corps area, the French 2^nd Armored Division gets a little closer to the Paris city limits, against strong opposition. 102^nd Cavalry Group units, screening for the 4^th Division, reach the Seine south of Paris. Ordered by General Bradley to push into Paris at once, the 4^th Division, less one Regimental Combat Team, attacks toward the city from the south in conjunction with French attacks from the southwest. One Regimental Combat Team, of the 4^th Division, retains the mission of securing the crossings of the Seine south of Paris.

 

In the US Third Army area, XX Corps gains bridgeheads across the Seine River at Melun and Montereau, with the 7^th Armored Division establishing Melun and the 5^th Division establishing Montareau. In the XII Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 4^th Armored Division, drives east toward Troyes, while Combat Command B, to the right, reaches the St Florentin area, and the 35^th Division moves up to Courtenay. Combat Command R is moving forward to join rest of the 4^th Armored Division.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In US Seventh Army area, the 1^st Airborne Task Force’s 509^th Parachute Battalion, followed by the 1^st Battalion, of the 551^st Parachute Infantry, advances into Cannes without opposition and pushes on to Antibes. The 1^st Special Service Force takes Grasse with ease, then seizes Valbonne and makes contact with friendly forces from the Cannes area. Regimental Combat Team 517, which has relieved elements of the 36^th Division in the Fayence–Callian area, advances on the left flank of 1^st Airborne Task Force, taking St Vallier on Route Napoléon. In the VI Corps area, the 36^th Division establishes a main line of resistance along the Roubion River and faces south to prevent enemy movement northward. The 141^st Infantry, on the right, defends the sector west from Bonlieu, and the 142^nd Infantry protects the left sector of the line from Bonlieu to Pré-Alps. Elements of the 111^th Engreering Battalion are disposed in front of Bonlieu. Forward elements of the 3^rd Division reach the the Rhône River at Arles.

 

In the French Army B’s II Corps area, organized resistance in the eastern part of Toulon comes to an end, but the Germans retain the western part and the dock area. Chapuis Group, of the 3^rd Algerian Division, pushes well into Marseille. Combat Command 2, of the 1^st Armored Division, relieves the US 3^rd Division at Aix, Gardanne, and Rognac.

 

Eastern Europe
Kishinev falls to Soviet frontal and flanking attacks.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 530 B-17s and B-24s to bomb three oil refineries at Kolin and Pardubice, in Czechoslovakia, the marshalling yard at Vinkovci, Yugoslavia, Szeged, Hungary, and a Ferrara, Italy, railroad bridge and several targets of opportunity. Around 80 fighters escort the Czechoslovakian missions, with US bombers and escorting fighters shooting down nearly 40 enemy airraft.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack bridges at Montpellier, Avignon, and Lunel, in France, and Solignano Nuovo, and Castel del Rio, in Italy, and score direct hits on gun positions in the Marseille, France area. Meanwhile, fighters bomb and strafe gun positions, vehicles, roads and bridges throughout southeastern France.

 

In US Fifth Army’s British XIII Corps area, the 1^st Division and the Indian 8^th Division, without opposition, begin fording the Arno River east of Florence, to secure positions on the north bank, before the main Fifth Army attack starts.

 

The British Eighth Army completes preparations for their attack on the Gothic Line on a three corps front. Screened by the Polish 2 Corps on the Eighth Army’s right flank, the Canadian I Corps, employing the Canadian 1^st Division in line, takes over the narrow front just west of Polish 2 Corps. V Corps, with the 46^th Division and the Indian 4^th Division in line, moves to the west of the Canadian I Corps on a front of about 20 miles. X Corps, consisting of the Indian 10^th Division and mixed a brigade group, continues to hold the left flank of the Eighth Army. The Italian Corps of Liberation, upon relief by V Corps, is held in army reserve.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s hit targets of opportunity.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, town areas, river and road traffic, railroad targets, and other targets of opportunity in or near Hengyang, Chuchou, Siangtan, and Yangtien are attacked by eight B-25s and 25 P-40s. 19 other P-40s hit similar targets of opportunity at Yungeheng, Anjen, along the central Yangtze River, and south of Mangshih.

 

On the Salween front, Japanese reinforcements start from Mangshih to the Lung-ling front.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends nine B-25s to bomb Kangon, Burma, while three P-47 flights support British troops northeast of Pinbaw, hitting forces and gun emplacements near Namyin Te and Nansankyin. Meanwhile, four P-47s bomb Nankan, and four P-51s strafe vehicles along the Shweli River and bomb a storage area south of Hopin.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Shipping in Lembeh Strait, on Celebes Island, is attacked by B-25s, while B-24s bomb Lolobata Airfield, on Halmahera Island.

 

In Vogelkop area of New Guinea, General Sibert leaves the Sansapor Marine sector to take command of X Corps, the headquarters of which has recently arrived from the US. Brigadier General Charles Hurdis takes over General Sibert’s posts as commander of Task Force TYPHOON and the 6^th Division.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s, based on Saipan Island, pound Aguijan and Pagan islands. Meanwhile, B-24s, based in the Marshall Islands, bomb Truk Atoll, and B-25s hit Nauru Island.

 

The advanced air echelon of Brigadier General Emmett O'Donnell Jr's headquarters of the 73^rd Bomb Wing (Very Heavy), arrives in the Mariana Islands with B-29s. This is the first 20^th Air Force contingent to arrive. The ground echelon arrives by water on September 16.

[dschneck]

Friday, August 25,1944

 

Bucharest

After being liberated from the Germans, Rumania declares war on Germany.

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 570 – 1,191bombers and 708 fighters make visual bombing attacks against aircraft component plants, Luftwaffe experimental stations and the synthetic oil industry.

 

The RAF dispatches 140 Halifaxes, 16 Lancasters, and five Mosquitos to attack five launching or storage sites in the Pas de Calais. Two Halifaxes and a Lancaster lost, with their crews.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 571 – 10 B-24s fly an AZON glide bomb mission to Moerdijke, the Netherlands, but the target is missed. Fighter escort is provided by 36 P-47s.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 572 – 69 B-24s are dispatched to hit Tertre, Tiller/Liege, La Louviere, and the St Trond Airfield, in Belgium, and Willerbroeck, in France. Meanwhile 38 B-17s hit Henin Littard, France. Escort for the mission is provided by a group of 152 P-38s and P-51s.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 412 Lancasters to attack the Opel motor factory at Rüsselsreim. 190 Lancasters and six Mosquitos are sent to Darmstadt, which had not been seriously attacked by Bomber Command before. 284 Halifaxes, 32 Lancasters, and 18 Mosquitos attack sight coastal battery positions near Brest. Support aircraft and two Mosquitos fly reconnaissance of targets, while 182 training aircraft fly a diversionary sweep over the North Sea,

 

European Theater, Northern France

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of about 240 A-20s and B-26s to attack various enemy strongholds in and around Brest, in support of the ground forces' attempt to capture Brest harbor. Fighters provide air cover for five divisions, fly armed reconnaissance along the Seine River, and sweeps in wide areas around Paris. Fighters of the IX Tactical Air Command raid, and set afire with napalm tanks, the reported headquarters of Field Marshall Walter Model, Commander in Chief West, and Verzy.

 

In British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, the 15^th Division gets into position to cross the Seine River, at Louviers. In the XXX Corps area, the 43^rd Division establishes a bridgehead across the Seine, at Vernon, under cover of artillery fire.

 

In US First Army area, XIX Corps overruns Elbeuf, its objective, and makes contact with British forces to the north. In the V Corps area, the French 2^nd Armored Division, bypassing resistance in the Versailles area, gets forward elements into Paris from the southwest at 0700 hours. The 4^th Division enters from the south soon afterward, following Troop A, of the 38^th Cavalry, which enters at 0730 hours. Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI) and jubilant French civilians assist in the methodical clearing of scattered strongpoints within the city. The German commander in Paris, Lt. General Dietrich von Choltitz, surrenders formally to Brigadier General Jacques-Philippe Leclerc, of the French 2^nd Armored Division, at 1515 hours. The 22^nd Infantry, of the 4^th Division, establishes a bridgehead across the Seine, south of Paris. V Corps releases the 80^th Division and the 90^th Division to the Third Army, which assigns them respectively to XII Corps and XX Corps. In the VII Corps area, Combat Command B, of the 3^rd Armored Division, crosses the Seine River, below Paris, at Tilly. The 1^st and 9^th Divisions are assembling south of Paris.

 

In the US Third Army area, VIII Corps launches a strong attack on Brest at 1300 hours, after preparatory bombardment for an hour. The 2^nd Division on the east, the 8^th on the north and the 29^th Division on the west attack the strong outer defenses of the city, making little headway. The 29^th Division employs Task Force Sugar, a special 175^th Infantry force that consists of two companies of the 2^nd Ranger Battalion and elements of the 86^th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, as well as 175^th Infantry units, and is commanded by Lt. Colonel Arthur Sheppe, of the 175^th Infantry. Task Force Sugar, on the extreme right, is assigned to clear the Le Conquet Peninsula, where the formidable Batterie Graf Spee is located. Task Force B continues clearing the peninsulas south of Brest. XX Corps defends the Seine bridgeheads at Melun and Montereau. The 5th Division crosses the Yonne River, at Missy. In the XII Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 4^th Armored Division, overcomes strong opposition in Troyes.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 3^rd Division drives through Cavaillon, Orgon, and Avignon, without opposition. Germans attack the 36^th Division’s line along the Roubion, at its weakest point, Bonlieu, routing the engineers and separating the 141^st Regiment and the 142^nd Regiment. Elements of the 143^rd Regiment are moved forward to help plug gap. Efforts, of the 1^st Battalion, of the 141^st Infantry, and Task Force Butler, to block Highway 7 in the La Coucourde area, fail. The 3^rd Battalion, of the 157^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, is attached to the 36^th Division, and moves to the La Coucourde area. Since the 141^st Infantry is under constant pressure and unable to gain control of the hills north and northeast of Montélimar, reinforcements, which includes the the 143^rd Infantry, are moved to Crest, on the Drôme River. Artillery and aircraft help troops interdict the enemy withdrawal up the Rhône.

 

In the French Army B area, II Corps continues to battle the enemy at Toulon and Marseille.

 

Eastern Europe
Tartu, the junction of the Riga–Tallinn railroad line, falls to forces of the Third Baltic Front.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 300 B-17s and B-24s, supported by P-38s and P-51s, to bomb aircraft factories at Brno and Kurim and airfields at Brno and Prostejov, all in Czechoslovakia.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force A-20s fly armed reconnaissance over the Po River Valley, in italy, and the Rhone River Valley, in France, and hit ammunition stores in southern France. In France, B-25s and B-26s attack Rhone River bridges at Avignon, Culoz, Saint-Alban-du-Rhone, Pont d'Ain, and Loyes, and hit gun positions around Marseille. Fighter-bombers, on armed reconnaissance in the battle area and in Italy, along the battle line north of the Arno River, attack gun positions, roads, and bridges.

 

In the US Fifth Army’s British XIII Corps area, driving up Route 69, which parallels the Arno River, the 6^th Armored Division reaches Route 70, east of Pontassieve. The British 1^st Division and the Indian 8^th Division deepen their bridgehead across the Arno to the left.

 

During the night, the British Eighth Army begins a main assault on the Gothic Line from the Metauro River line. With British V Corps on the left, Canadian I Corps in the middle, and Polish 2 Corps on the right, the enemy is taken by surprise and offers only ineffective opposition.

 

During the night, the 12^th Air Force dispatches fighter-bombers on armed reconnaissance over the western Po River Valley, in Italy, and over the Nice area, of France. They bomb vehicles and other targets of opportunity.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

Three B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb the Kowloon docks, in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, three B-25s and 12 P-40s hit buildings, troop compounds, and general targets of opportunity in the Yangtien area, while four more B-25s and 21 P-40s attack similar targets in and around Anjen. Two other B-25s bomb the fighter strip at Leiyang and two more hit the town of Nanyo, while a group of 40 P-51s and P-40s attack a wide variety of targets throughout the Hengyang, Siangyin, Siangtan, and Siangsiang areas, Chenghsien, Lishui, Samshui, Chiangmen, Luichow Peninsula, and the Red River delta.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, nine B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb Kondangyi, while four P-47s knock out a bridge south of Bhamo and hit several targets of opportunity in the area, and two P-51s bomb a probable factory at Hopin. Meanwhile, six flights of P-51s attack buildings and targets of opportunity at Pinlon and Kyagyigon, while 32 other P-51s support ground forces at Ingyingon and along the Hsai-hkao and Namsang River.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s strike Koror and Malakal islands, in the Palau Islands, and the Caroline Islands. B-24s pound Lolobata, on Halmahera Island, B-25s, on a shipping sweep over the Lembeh Strait, in the Celebes Island, sink a merchant ship and hit several small vessels. In the Lesser Sunda Islands, a few B-25s, on a shipping sweep, attack several small vessels. In New Guinea, A-20s and fighter-bombers hit the Babo Airfield, Sagan, and Otawiri, while P-39s strafe troops near But.

 

General Krueger declares the Aitape operation at an end. During this action, Allied forces have lost about 440 killed, 2,550 wounded, and 10 missing. Japanese losses, by US count, are 8,821 killed and 98 captured. The Japanese 18^th Army is no longer a major threat on New Guinea.

 

On the Vogelkop, the Japanese make their first air attack on the region held by Task Force TYPHOON.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from Saipan Island, hit the airfield on Iwo Jima Island, while P-47s blast anti-aircraft positions and troops on Pagan Island. Elsewhere, a B-24 bombs Yap Island, and B-25s, from the Gilbert Island, bomb Ponape Island.

 

North Pacific Area 11^th Air Force

In the Kurile Islands, one B-24, from the 11^th Air Force, flies reconnaissance over Shasukotan, Onnekotan, and Harumukotan islands, but drops no bombs due to accurate anti-aircraft fire.

[dschneck]

Saturday, August 26,1944

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 575 – 359 B-17s are dispatched to attack gun batteries in the Brest area, of France. Targets include Brest/Pte de St Mathieu and coastal batteries at Kerandieu, Cornovailles, Brest/Ile Longue, Brest/Kerviniov, Brest/Ponscorf, Brest/Pte des Espagnoles II, Brest/Pte des Espagnoles III, and targets of opportunity. Fighter escort is provided by 49 P-51s. One P-51 is lost, with 18 airmen are listed as killed in action.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 576 – 588 bombers and 402 fighters attack oil refineries, fuel stores and chemical works in Germany.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 577 – 10 B-24s fly an AZON bomb mission to the Moerdijk rail bridge, in the Netherlands, but clouds prevent an attack. Escort is provided by 32 P-51s.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 578 – 37 B-17s are dispatched to hit liquid oxygen plants at La Louviere, Torte and Willebroeck, in Belgium, but the mission is aborted due to clouds. Escort is provided by 18 P-51s.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 579 – Three B-17s fly a special bomb test using Micro H radar, against aviation industry targets at Meaulte, France. Escort is provided by seven P- 47s.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 580 – Two of the aircraft flying Mission 579, also drop leaflets over France.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 372 Lancasters and 10 Mosquitos to Kiel. 174 Lancasters are sent to Königsberg, an important supply port for the German Eastern Front. Meanwhile, support aircraft and 108 training aircraft fly a diversionary sweep to Normandy, 21 Mosquitos hit Berlin, 13 hit Hamburg and 12 attack five other targets. 19 aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, 70 Mosquitos fly patrols, and 30 Lancasters and 15 Halifaxes lay mines off Danzig and Kiel. 26 Lancasters and two Mosquitos are lost, with their crews.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 581 – During the night, seven B-24s are dispatched on a radio countermeasures mission to aid RAF Bomber Command.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 582 – During the night, six B-17s drop leaflets in France and Belgium. Meanwhile, 183 P-47s and 206 P-51s attack transport targets in Belgium, eastern France and western Germany, shooting down one aircraft. Two P-47s and seven P-51s are lost, with eight pilots listed as missing in action.

 

European Theater, Northern France

9^th Air Force bombers, with fighter escort, hit fuel dumps at Saint Gobain, Fournival/Bois de Mont, and Compiegne/Clairoix, and troop and equipment concentrations at Rouen. Fighters fly ground forces and assault area cover, and armed reconnaissance in the Rouen, Dijon, Chatillon sur Seine and southern Loire areas.

 

In Canadian First Army area, II Corps prepares to cross the Seine River, south of Rouen. Patrols of the 4^th Armored Division cross in evening.

 

In British Second Army area, XXX Corps expands and strengthens the bridgehead at Vernon.

 

In US First Army area, XIX Corps is relieved by British forces and releases the 30^th Division to XV Corps. XV Corps maintains the Mantes-Gassicourt bridgehead and mops up. In the V Corps area, while the French 2^nd Armored Division mops up scattered opposition within Paris, the 4^th Division returns to positions southeast of the city and protects the Seine bridgehead and airfields in the area. In the VII Corps area, additional elements of 3rd Armored Division cross the Seine and rapidly push northward.

 

US Third Army, with gasoline running low, receives a shipment by air. VIII Corps continues to make slow progress toward Brest, against firm opposition. In the XX Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division thrusts quickly northeast toward Château Thierry and the Marne. Nogent sur Seine falls to the 5^th Division. In the XII Corps area, the 4^th Armored Division mops up Troyes, while the 35^th Division patrols on the right flank.

 

General Montgomery directs the Canadian First Army to clear the Pas de Calais. The British Second Army is to push into Belgium. The US First Army is to support the British drive, moving forward on a line from Paris to Brussels.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, air and artillery continue to help interdict the northward withdrawal of enemy troops. The 3^rd Division continues steadily northward toward Montélimar overcoming rear guard opposition at Orange. The 36^th Division is unable to restore a line along the Roubion River at Bonlieu, and the Germans withdraw additional units through the gap. Task Force Butler is ordered to restore the blockade on Highway 7, at La Coucourde. VI Corps takes direct control of the 157^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division. The 2^nd Battalion, of the 157^th, moving west to reinforce the 36^th Division, seizes Allex, north of the Drôme River and east of Livron, blocking the lower reaches of the Drôme. The 1^st Battalion assists in defending Crest.

 

In the French Army B’s II Corps area, organized resistance within Toulon comes to an end, but the Germans retain the San Mandrier Peninsula, south of the city. At Marseille, further progress is made and fortified heights of Notre Dame de la Garde, within the city, capitulate. Forward elements of II Corps reach the Rhône River, in the Avignon–Arles area and begin crossing.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the Third Ukrainian Front, advancing along the Prut River toward Galati, reach the Danube River. Troops of the Second Ukrainian Front are moving through the Focsani–Galati gap.

 

Bulgaria begins surrender negotiations with the Allies.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends over 470 bombers, escorted by P-38s and P-51s, attack targets in Italy and Rumania. B-17s hit viaducts and bridges at Venzone, Avisio, and Latisana, in Italy. In Rumania, B-24s hit a train ferry and terminal at Giurgiu, the Otopeni Airfield, barracks and troops in the Baneasa area and a viaduct at Borovnica.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force fighter-bombers attack ammunition dumps in southeastern France and in north central Italy. In France, medium bombers hit guns in the Marseille area, but several missions into the Rhone Valley are aborted due to bad weather, fighter-bombers and fighters fly armed reconnaissance over northern Italy and southeastern France, attacking rail lines, roads, guns, vehicles, and other targets of opportunity.

 

In US Fifth Army area, British XIII Corps consolidates positions north of the Arno River. In the IV Corps area, the South African 6^th Armoured Division is committed to the line and begins relief of the 85^th Division, latter reverting to II Corps.

 

The British Eighth Army secures the bridgeheads across the Metauro River in the zones of British V Corps, Canadian I Corps, and Polish 2 Corps, with little difficulty.

 

During the night, the 12^th Air Force sends A-20s to bomb targets of opportunity in the Po River Valley.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, three 14^th Air Force B-24s bomb a storage area at Amoy, while three B-25s bomb a barracks area near Wenchow harbor and damage a bridge near Sincheng. Meanwhile, 31 fighter-bombers attack railroad targets, troops, sampans, and other targets of opportunity in or near Yangtien, Yungfengshih, Siangsiang, Anjen, Laiyuan, Kinhwa, and Pengtse.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In the Palau Islands, B-24s, from the Far East Air Force (FEAF), bomb the Koror and Peleliu airfields. Other B-24s bomb the Haroekoe and Liang airfields, on Ambon Island. In New Guinea, A-20s, in close ground support, hit troop concentrations in the Sarmi sector, while fighter-bombers hit targets of opportunity in the Wewak and Suain areas, and P-39s maintain patrols over the western shore of Geelvink Bay.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from Saipan Island, bomb the airfield on Iwo Jima Island. Meanwhile, P-47s blast anti-aircraft guns and troops on Pagan and Aguijan islands, and a B-24, on armed reconnaissance, bombs Woleai Atoll and Yap Island.

 

North Pacific Area

In the Kurile Islands, three B-24s, from the 11^th Air Force, hit the Kashiwabara staging area on Paramushiru Island, during the early morning, starting several fires. Later, six B-25s strafe and bomb the east coast of the north Kurile Islands, sinking a patrol boat. Seven more B-24s bomb targets on Kashiwabara and on Otomari Cape, including docks, piers, boats, and a fuel dump.

 

Alaska Theater

Six P-38s, from the 11^th Air Force, unsuccessfully attempt to intercept four unidentified aircraft west of Attu Island.

[dschneck]

Sunday, August 27,1944

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 583 – 426 B-17s are dispatched but encounter very high clouds over Denmark and north Germany and are recalled. Five aircraft hit the Ausum Airfield, four hit targets of opportunity and one hits the Flensburg marshalling yard. Escort is provided by 194 P- 51s. Two B-17s and three P-51s are lost, with 13 men listed as killed or missing.

 

The RAF sends 216 Halifaxes, 14 Mosquitos and 13 Lancasters to bomb the Rheinpreussen synthetic-oil refinery at Meerbeck. This raid was escorted by nine squadrons of Spitfires on the outward flight and seven squadrons on the withdrawal. One Me 110 is seen. Meanwhile, 176 Halifaxes, 40 Lancasters, and 10 Mosquitos carry out an accurate attack on a flying-bomb site at Mimoyecques. Elsewhere, 24 Lancasters and one Mosquito bomb two ships in Brest harbour.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 584 – 777 bombers, 326 fighter-bombers and 351 fighters are dispatched to targets in Germany and eastern France.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 30 Mosquitos to Mannheim, while 66 training unit Wellingtons fly a diversionary sweep, and 19 aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties. Meanwhile, 26 Mosquito fly patrols, and seven aircraft fly resistance operations. For the night, three Mosquitos and crews are lost.

 

European Theater, Northern France

9^th Air Force bombers attack troop concentrations in the Rouen area, the Rouen bridge, the Boulogne sur Mer/Boursin navigational beam station, and the Bucy les Pierrepont and Foret de Samoussy fuel dumps. Fighters cover ground forces and fly sweeps and armed reconnaissance in the Senlis area and south of the Loire River, shooting down 11 aircraft and destroying five more on the ground. Six fighters are lost.

 

In Canadian First Army area, British I Corps elements reach the Seine River, in the coastal sector. In the II Corps area, the Canadian 4^th Armoured Division and 3^rd Infantry Division begin crossing the Seine, between Elbeuf and Pont de l’Arche, and clear Tourlaville.

 

In British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, the 15^th Division begins crossing the Seine east of Louviers and establishes a bridgehead in the Muids–Porte-Joie area with ease. A second crossing site, about a mile upstream, is found to be strongly defended and is abandoned. XXX Corps continues to expand and strengthen the bridgehead at Vernon.

 

In the US First Army area, XV Corps attacks with the 30^th Division on the right and 79^th Division on the left to enlarge the Mantes-Gassicourt bridgehead. In the V Corps area, against scattered resistance, with the French 2^nd Armored Division on the right, and the 4^th Division on left, drive northeast to the outskirts of Paris, overcoming strong opposition at Le Bourget Airfield. In the VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division speeds northeast toward Soissons, with the 4^th Cavalry Group spearheading, and the 1^st and 9^th Divisions following, crossing the Marne River in the Mieux area and taking that town.

 

In US Third Army area, VIII Corps completes the encirclement of Brest. Task Force Sugar, of the 29^th Division, cuts the main Le Conquet–Recouvrance highway. The 83^rd Division moves forward to protect the southern flank along the Loire River, west of Orléans. In the XX Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division drives northeast toward Reims on a broad front, followed by the 5^th and 80^th Divisions. Armored forces reach the Marne River at Château Thierry, secure the crossings, and overrun that town. In the XII Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 4^th Armored Division, heads from Troyes northeast toward Châlonssur Marne, followed by the 80^th Division. The 35^th Division protects the southern flank of the Third Army from Orléans to Troyes.

 

The US 12^th Army Group allocates priority in supply to the US First Army, as supplies are becoming increasingly short.

 

General Eisenhower and General Bradley visit Paris and confer with General Charles de Gaulle.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 3^rd Division, coming up from the south, secures positions from which to attack Montélimar. The 36^th Division restores the line along the Roubion River. Task Force Butler reaches Highway 7 at La Coucourde, but is unable to block it. So effective is artillery fire, however, that a block is formed by wrecked enemy vehicles. Aircraft and artillery are taking an increasingly heavy toll of enemy columns in the Montélimar–Livron sector. The 45th Division is probing toward Lyon from Grenoble, while the 179^th Infantry takes Bourgoin, midway between Grenoble and Lyon. The 180^th Infantry, holding defensive positions in the northern part of the right flank of VI Corps, in the Briançon area, is relieved by the Provisional Flank Protection Force, called Task Force Bibo, in order to move to the Grenoble area. Task Force Bibo, commanded by Lt. Colonel Harold Bibo, and under Seventh Army control, consists of Troop A, of the 117^th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, elements of 2^nd, 3^rd, and 83^rd Chemical Battalions, two platoons of the 180^th Infantry Antitank Company, and battery of the 171^st Field Artillery Battalion.

 

In the French Army B area, II Corps continues to clear the environs of Toulon and the city of Marseille. At 1745 hours the bombardment of the San Mandrier Peninsula, south of Toulon, is halted and Germans agree to surrender the peninsula, effective on August 28. At Marseille, Fort St Nicolas surrenders, but scattered opposition remains. In the evening, the German command requests an interview to discuss surrender terms.

 

Eastern Europe
Focsani, Rumania, falls to troops of the Second Ukrainian Front. Galati, the third largest city in Rumania and chief port on the Danube River, falls to the Third Ukrainian Front.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends over 530 bombers, with fighter escort, to attack targets in Germany and Italy. B-17s hit an oil refinery in Blechhammer, Germany, while B-24s also hit an oil refinery in Blechhammer and in Italy, a railroad bridge at Ferrara, and viaducts at Avisio, Venzone, and Borovnica.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers hit gun emplacements in the Marseille area. In Italy, medium bombers attack bridges at Berceto, while fighter-bombers continue armed reconnaissance in the Po River Valley and over roads leading north from the battle line north of the Arno River. Meanwhile, A-20s hit ammunition stores in north central Italy.

 

The British Eighth Army makes steady progress northward toward main Gothic Line positions.

 

During the night, A-20s, from the 12^th Air Force, hit motor transport and other targets of opportunity and fly armed reconnaissance over the Po River Valley and blast a command post southeast of Genoa.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, Seven B-25s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb Hengyang, the Tien Ho, White Cloud, and Pailochi airfields, while nine others hit road and river traffic in the Yoyang, Hankow, Changsha, and Hengyang areas. A group of over 120 P-40s and P-51s hit targets of opportunity in the same areas, plus Yangtien, Chachiang, Anjen, Leiyang, Sintsiang, Siangsiang, and Siangtan, damaging or destroying numerous trucks, many rivercraft and hitting several troop concentrations.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 23 P-47s to support ground forces in the Pinbaw area, of Burma. They hit Kondangyi and troops and strongpoints near Pinbaw.

 

The British 36^th Division, continuing down the Mogaung–Mandalay railroad corridor, takes Pinbaw.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In New Guinea, fighter-bombers hit Miti and the airfields at Babo, Ransiki, Sagan, and Manokwari. Fighter-bombers hit bivouacs near Boram, troops between Abau and Boikin, and a fuel dump and barges at Kairiru Island.

 

In New Guinea, the 1^st Battalion, of the 158^th Infantry, relieves elements of the 503^rd Parachute Infantry remaining in the southern part of Noemfoor.

 

Central Pacific Area

A 7^th Air Force B-24, from Saipan Island, bombs Iwo Jima Island, while another, after a photo reconnaissance of Woleai Atoll, bombs Yap Island. P-47s bomb anti-aircraft positions on Pagan Island and strafe buildings on Alamagan Island.

 

North Pacific Area

The 11^th Air Force sends five B-24s to bomb and photograph Kashiwabara, on Parmushiru Island, in two raids. Meanwhile, four B-25s, on a shipping sweep east of the north Kurile Islands, bomb and strafe picket boats, damaging one and leaving another sinking.

[dschneck]

Monday, August 28,1944

 

European Theater

As weather prevents heavy bomber operations, the 8^th Air Force dispatches 835 fighters on fighter-bomber and strafing attacks on rail targets in the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany.

 

The RAF sends 77 Halifaxes, 48 Lancasters, and 25 Mosquitos to attack 12 flying bomb sites. 30 other aircraft bomb a German battery on the Île de Cezembre, near St Malo, and 23 Halifaxes bomb ships in Brest harbour. One aircraft is lost.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 35 Mosquitos to Essen, four to Leverkusen, three each to Le Culot and Venlo and two to Cologne. 13 Mosquito fly patrols, six Halifaxes lay mines off La Pallice, and 19 other aircraft fly resistance operations. One Halifax and crew is lost.

 

European Theater, Northern France

9^th Air Force B-26s and A-20s, escorted by fighters, bomb fuel dumps at Doullens, Barisis aux Bois, an ammunition dump at Querrieu, an ammunition and fuel dump at Compiegne/Foret de Laigue, and an alcohol distillery and fuel storage depot at Hamm. Meanwhile, fighters escort about 400 C-47s on supply and evacuation runs, attack airfields at Bourges and Peronne, support ground forces, and fly armed reconnaissance from Amiens to east of Dijon.

 

In the Canadian First Army area, II Corps expands the bridgehead toward Rouen.

 

In the British Second Army area, XXII Corps expands its bridgehead across the Seine. In the XXX Corps area, the entire 43^rd Division is across the Seine, and the bridgehead extends about four miles in width and three miles in depth.

 

In the US First Army area, XV Corps continues to improve positions in the Mantes-Gassicourt bridgehead. The 2^nd Armored Division is attached to XV Corps to pass through the 79^th Division and spearhead a breakout. In the V Corps area, General Gerow, in a letter to General Pierre Joseph Koenig, Military Governor of Paris, turns over the city to the French. The French 2^nd Armored Division and the 4^th Division continue attacks northeast of Paris. The 5^th Armored and 28^th Infantry Divisions are attached to V Corps. In the VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division pursues a disorganized enemy to Soissons.

 

In US Third Army area, VIII Corps continues to batter Brest. The 29^th Division takes direct command of Task Force Sugar from the 175^th Infantry. The 116^th Infantry is pushing east along the Le Conquet–Recouvrance highway. Combat Command B, of the 6^th Armored Division, leaves Lorient for the Third Army zone. XX Corps is speedily closing in on Reims. In the XII Corps area, Combat Command A columns, followed by the 80^th Division, continue rapidly toward the Marne River, at Châlons sur Marne and Vitry le François.

 

European Theater, Southern France

The US Seventh Army directs that another trap be set for retreating enemy forces before he reaches the Belfort Gap. While the 2^nd Corps of French Army B drives north along the west bank of the Rhône River, VI Corps is to move north via Lyon, Beaune, and Dijon to make contact with OVERLORD forces and block off the enemy from the Rhine River. Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI) and Task Force Bibo troops are driven from Briançon by the enemy. In the VI Corps area, the 3^rd Division clears rear-guard opposition from Montélimar, enabling the 36^th Division to seize the hill masses to north and northeast. VI Corps’ attention shifts to the Drôme River line, where the final phase of the Montélimar battle is being fought. The 142^nd Regiment, of the 36^th Division, surrounds Livron, blocking Highway 7, north of the Drôme, but most of German Nineteenth Army has escaped northward through the Montélimar trap. Task Force Butler and the 143^rd Infantry isolate Loriol, south of Livron. Withdrawing enemy traffic remains a lucrative target for aircraft and artillery. The 45^th Division’s 180^th Infantry moves to Grenoble, while the 179^th Infantry continues northward toward Lyon.

 

In French Army B’s II Corps area, all resistance in the Toulon area comes to an end with the surrender of the San Mandrier Peninsula to the 9^th Colonial Division. The Germans also surrender Marseille. The 80^th German garrison commanders are captured. During the battle for these important ports, in which Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI) forces have given valuable assistance, two German divisions have been eliminated. The 9^th Colonial Division is given the temporary mission of guarding the Toulon–Marseille area. Other elements of II Corps continue to cross the Rhône river, in the Avignon– Arles area.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the Second Ukrainian Front drive into Transylvania through the Oituz Pass, in the Carpathian Mountains.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends over 560 bombers, escorted by P-38s and P-51s, to attack targets in Austria, Hungary and Italy. B-17s hit the Moosbierbaum oil refinery and adjacent chemical works in Austria. B-24s hit an oil refinery at Szony and the marshalling yards at Miskolc and railroad bridges and viaducts at Szolnok, in Hungary, and Zambana, Avisio, and Ora Italy.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s bomb railroad bridges in the Lyon area, of France. In Italy, B-26s destroy several airplanes at the Villafranca di Verona Airfield and a bridge at Parma, while fighter-bombers hit vehicles in the Rhone Valley, of France, bomb and strafe roads and bridges in the battle area north of the Arno River and hit shipping in Imperia and Savona harbors.

 

In US Fifth Army’s British XIII Corps area, the 17^th Brigade of the 8^th Indian Division, attacking during the night, takes Tigliano, north of Pontassieve. The 6^th Armored Division, securing the right flank of XIII Corps, gets a column beyond Rufina, on Highway 67.

 

The British Eighth Army continues to gain ground toward the Gothic Line, with Polish 2 Corps, on the right, reaching the Arzilla River.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, eight B-25s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb the Tien Ho, White Cloud, Hankow, and Pailochi airfields, while eight more attack river and road traffic from Chiuchiang to Hankow and from Hengyang to Puchi. Meanwhile, 32 P-40s pound targets of opportunity at Hengyang and Pailochi, 23 P-40s attack Taying storage buildings and a group of 10 P-40s and P-51s hit Anjen and nearby targets of opportunity.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, four P-47s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb a tank pool at Momauk, while five others hit Myintha, and two P-47s support ground forces in the Pinbaw area.

 

Pacific Theater

Brigadier General Haywood Hansell assumes command of the XXI Bomber Command at Peterson Field, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Brigadier General Lauris Norstad succeeds Hansell as Chief of Staff of the 20^th Air Force.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In the Palau Islands, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s hit the airfield on Koror Island, and the seaplane base on Arakabesan Island. A-20s and fighter-bombers attack small vessels along the east coast of Ceram Island. In New Guinea, fighter-bombers hit Kokas, vessels off Point Karakra, barracks at Nabire, storage facilities at Moemi and Manokwari and Boram fuel dumps.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force B-24s, from Saipan Island, pound Iwo Jima Island by day and night. Meanwhile, P-47s hit Pagan and Maug islands, in the Mariana Islands, and a B-24, on armed reconnaissance, bombs Yap Island. Elsewhere, B-25s, based on the Gilbert Island, strike Ponape Island, and B-24s, from the Marshall Islands, hit Truk Atoll.

[dschneck]

Tuesday, August 29,1944

 

European Theater

Bad weather restricts 8^th Air Force bomber operations. However, a force of 202 P-38s and P-47s attack transportation targets in France, Belgium and Germany.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 402 Lancasters and one Mosquito to Stettin. Meanwhile, 189 Lancasters attack Königsberg at the aircraft’s extreme range. Elsewhere, support aircraft and 93 training aircraft fly a diversionary sweep over the North Sea, 53 Mosquitos bomb Berlin, Hamburg and four other targets. In other action, 35 aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, 49 Mosquito fly patrols, 31 Lancasters and 12 Halifaxes lay mines off Baltic ports, and eight aircraft fly resistance operations. For the night, two Wellingtons and 39 Lancasters are lost with their crews.

 

European Theater, Northern France

In France, bad weather allows only minimum bomber and fighter operations. 9^th Air Force B-26s attack afuel dump while a few fighters fly sweeps over northwestern France, and over 100 C-47s complete supply and evacuation missions.

 

In British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, the 15^th Division has completed crossing the Seine River and holds the loop of the river, west of Les Andelys. In the XXX Corps area, the 11^th Armored Division, reinforced by the 8^th Armored Brigade, takes the lead, heading toward the Somme River, at Amiens, and reaching the Mainneville area.

 

In the US First Army area, XIX Corps takes over the zone of XV Corps at noon and assumes the command of the 2^nd Armored Division and the 30^th and 79^th Infantry Divisions. The 2^nd Armored Division drives through the 79^th Division to Magny en Vexin. The 30^th Division, to the right, reaches a line from Wy dit Joli Village to Saillancourt. XV Corps reverts to Third Army control and is held in reserve. V Corps, leaving the French 2^nd Armored Division behind in Paris, drives northeast with the 4^th Division to the Mitry Mory–Le Plessis area. The 28^th Division parades northeast through Paris to its assigned attack position west of the 4^th Division. In the VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division, spearheading a drive on Laon, crosses the Aisne River east of Soissons.

 

The US Third Army orders the advance continued to the Meuse River. In the VIII Corps area, the 2^nd Rangers, of Task Force Sugar, of the 29^th Division, take Pointe de Corsen as the assault on Brest continues against unabated resistance. XX Corps speeds northeast to Reims, which the 5^th Division captures. In the XII Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 4^th Armored Division, overruns Châlons sur Marne and Vitry le François.

 

The 12th Army Group issues instructions for operations beyond the Seine.

 

Gasoline shortage is acute and the US Third Army is given priority on supply by air.

 

General Eisenhower directs that the main effort, from this point forward, be made in the north.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In US Seventh Army area, the 1^st Airborne Task Force, on the Mediterranean coast, begins crossing the Var River. In the VI Corps’ Rhône Valley sector, organized resistance at Loriol and Livron, on Highway 7, comes to an end. The 36^th and 3^rd Divisions are mopping up enemy rear guards. The 3^rd Division is to assemble at Voiron, northwest of Grenoble, upon relief by the French. The 36^th is to continue north toward Lyon. To the right, the 45^th Division continues to probe northward with the 179^th and 180^th Regiments.

 

In the French Army B area, the 2^nd Moroccan Division, in the process of debarking, is ordered to the extreme right flank of the Seventh Army. The 3^rd Algerian Division is to advance to its left, and the 9^th Colonial Division is to be gradually committed.

 

At a commanders’ conference at Seventh Army headquarters, plans are made for the joining of OVERLORD and DRAGOON forces.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the Third Ukrainian Front take Constanta, a Black Sea port.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends 550 bombers to targets in Italy, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and Yugoslavia.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers hit four bridges and a viaduct in northeastern Italy, while A-20s hit a fuel station, and fighter-bombers hit roads and bridges in northern Italy, and support ground forces in the Arno River Valley. Meanwhile, P-47s fly medium bomber escort and armed reconnaissance, destroying 100 vehicles. In France, fighters attack targets in the Rhone Valley.

 

In US Fifth Army’s British XIII Corps area, a 6^th Armoured Division column reaches Consuma, on Highway 70.

 

In the British Eighth Army area, as Polish 2 Corps attempts to clear Pesaro, on the Adriatic coast, Canadian I Corps and British V Corps thrust to the Foglia River, behind which the enemy is moving reinforcements in an effort to stem the British advance. The Indian 10^th Division, of X Corps, finds Bibbiena, on Route 71, abandoned by enemy.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s hit fuel storage targets and targets of opportunity, while fighter-bombers pound roads and railroads in the Po Valley in Italy. Meanwhile, other fighter-bombers, on armed reconnaissance over the Rhone Valley in France, attack rail lines and motor and horse drawn vehicles.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (India)

Major General Curtis LeMay becomes Commanding General of the XX Bomber Command with headquarters at Kharagpur, India.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 24 B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, escorted by 45 fighters, blast railroad yards at Yoyang, while 15 B-25s bomb the Pailochi, White Cloud, Tien Ho, and Hankow airfields, and 10 others hit trucks and other targets of opportunity.

 

In China, the Japanese 11^th Army, consisting of seven divisions, starts south down the railroad from Heng-yang, threatening US 14^th Air Force bases at Kweilin and Liuchow.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, eight B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, attack targets in Katha and hit two bridges just north of the town area. Meanwhile, eight P-51s attack Bilumyo, five P-47s destroy a road bridge at Mainghka and five others hit buildings in Bhamo.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

In the Palau Islands, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb Koror, and Malakal islands, a seaplane base on Arakabesan Island, and supply area north of the Ingesebus Airfield. B-24s bomb barracks at Amboina, on Ambon Island, and P-38s hit a seaplane base at Halong, on Celebes Island.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s strafe anti-aircraft positions on Pagan Island, while a B-24 on armed reconnaissance bombs Yap Island, and B-25s, based on Gilbert Island, bomb Nauru Island.

 

During the evening, 7^th Air Force B-24s, from Saipan Island, bomb Iwo Jima and Pagan islands.

[dschneck]

Wednesday, August 30,1944

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 590 – 159 B-17s and 145 B-24s are dispatched to eight V-weapon sites in the Pas de Calais area of France, with one wing using GH and H2X methods. Escort is provided by 16 P-51s.

 

8^th Air Force Mission 591 – 637 B-17s are dispatched to bomb the U-boat base and shipyards at Kiel, an aircraft plant and other industry in the Bremen area, and targets of opportunity. Fighter escort is provided by 294 P- 51s.

 

During the night, the RAF sends 36 Mosquitos to Frankfurt, six on radio countermeasure sorties, and six on patrols. Meanwhile, four Halifaxes lay mines off La Pallice.

 

European Theater, Northern France

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a group of about 75 A-20s and B-26s to bomb a fuel dump near Arques-la-Bataille, Rouxmesnil- Bouteilles, and gun positions around Ile de Cezembre. Bad weather grounds the fighters.

 

In the Canadian First Army’s British I Corps area, the 49^th Division, with Royal Netherlands Brigade, and the 51^st Division begin crossing the Seine River.

 

In the British Second Army area, XXII Corps drives eastward from the bridgehead with the 4^th Armoured Brigade spearheading and the 53^rd Division following. A 25 mile advance brings forward elements to Gournay. In the XXX Corps area, the 11th Armoured Division, which is relieved on the right flank by Guards Armoured Division, is ordered to speed to the Somme River, at Amiens, and to advance through the night.

 

In the US First Army area, XIX Corps, with the 2^nd Armored Division on the left, the 79^th Division in the center, and the 30^th Division on the right, drives rapidly northeast against light resistance. V Corps continues their pursuit of the enemy northeastward, passing the 28^th Division and through the French 2^nd Armored Division, to advance abreast of the 4^th Division. The 5^th Armored Division moves forward to spearhead the drive on Compiègne. VII Corps seizes Laon.

 

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, Task Force B finishes clearing the Daoulas Peninsula, south of Brest. The 29^th Division gets elements to the crest of Hill 103, a commanding feature in the Brest defenses, but the enemy retains the eastern slopes. In the XX Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division speeds toward Verdun against scattered resistance. XII Corps drives eastward toward the Meuse, with advance elements of the 4^th Armored Division reaching the St Dizier area. XV Corps headquarters and troops are concentrating in the Nangis area.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In the US Seventh Army area, on the Mediterranean coast, elements of the 1^st Airborne Task Force drive through Nice to Beaulieu without opposition. In the VI Corps area, the battle of Montélimar comes to a close as the 1^st Battalion, of the 143^rd Infantry, with the 36^th Division, reaches the junction of the Drôme and Rhône rivers. Task Force Butler is disbanded. The next big objective of VI Corps is Lyon, toward which the 36^th Division is rapidly moving along the eastern bank of the Rhône River, while the French II Corps pushes toward it along west bank. Forces Françaises de l’Interieur (FFI) within Lyon are alerted to assist French and US columns when they arrive at the city. Advance elements of the 45^th Division cross the Rhône and Ain rivers northeast of Lyon and establish roadblocks at Meximieux, Lagnieu, and Ambérieu. The 157^th Infantry reverts to the 45^th Division and moves northward to join it.

 

In the French Army B area, II Corps continues its crossing of the Rhône in preparation for a drive up the west bank. Elements take Nimes and Montpellier. The 3^rd Algerian Division is moving to the Grenoble area to relieve the 45^th Division, of VI Corps.

 

Eastern Europe
Ploesti, the center of Rumanian oil industry, falls to troops of the Second Ukrainian Front.

 

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of over 100 B-24s and B-17s to hit targets in Yugoslavia. The B-17s bomb railroad bridges at Novi Sad and Vranjeco, while the B-24s attack bridges at Cuprija. Nearly 100 P-51s strafe airfields at Kecskemet, in Hungary, and Oradea, in Rumania.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign 12^th Air Force

The British Eighth Army begins an attack on the main defenses of the Gothic Line against stiffening resistance. While the Polish 2 Corps continues their attack on Pesaro in the coastal sector, the Canadian I Corp and the British V Corps thrust across the Foglia River.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s attack targets of opportunity in the Po Valley, while fighter-bombers hit communications north of the Arno River.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

In China, 14^th Air Force B-25s attack the Hengyang, Pailochi, and Hankow airfields, roads in the Nanyo and Changsha areas, and boats between Changsha and Hengyang, and Kichun and Wuhsueh. In the Kweiyi and Sintsiang areas, 33 P-40s destroy 58 trucks, with 175 damaged, and at least 100 Japanese killed. 10 P-51s hit scattered targets of opportunity in the same areas, while 21 P-40s hit barracks, trucks, and a bridge in the Siangsiang and Siangtan region, and a group of 34 P-40s and P-51s attack a variety of other targets.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends several P-47s to bomb and strafe the town of Man Sai, Burma.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

Koror and Malakal islands are pounded by B-24s. More B-24s hit Wasile Bay storage and personnel areas in the Moluccas Islands, while B-25s make a low-level attack on Kaoe, on Halmahera Island. P-38s bomb oil tanks, barracks, and anti-aircraft positions at Boela, Ceram island. In New Guinea, P-47s hit the Urarom runway and Manokwari storage area, P-38s bomb airfields at Babo and Ransiki, and P-39s hit targets of opportunity along the west coast of Geelvink Bay.

 

In the Guadalcanal area, the 81^st Division begins final rehearsals for the Palau operation.

 

Central Pacific Area

A B-24, on armed reconnaissance from Saipan Island, bombs Yap Island. P-47s strafe enemy positions and storage areas on Pagan Island. B-24s, from Kwajalein Atoll, hit Mille Atoll.

[dschneck]

Thursday, August 31,1944

 

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 594 – During the night, six B-17s drop leaflets in France, while a group of 37 B-24s and C-47s fly CARPETBAGGER missions.

 

The RAF sends 418 Lancasters, 147 Halifaxes, and 36 Mosquitos to attack nine sites in Northern France, where the Germans are believed to be storing V-2 rockets. Meanwhile, 165 Halifaxes, five Pathfinder Mosquitos, accompanied by a photographic Mosquito, bomb the Île de Cezembre battery near St Malo. One Halifax and six Lancasters are lost.

 

During the night, the RAF dispatches 42 Mosquitos to Düsseldorf, six to Cologne and six to Leverkusen. Meanwhiel, three aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, 21 Mosquito fly patrols, and 24 aircraft fly resistance operations. Two Mosquitos are lost.

 

European Theater, Northern France

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a group of 99 B-26s and A-20s to bomb an ammunition dump at Foret d'Arques and gun positions at Ile de Cezembre, in France. Meanwhile, fighters fly armed reconnaissance in the Amiens, Saint-Quentin, Albert, and Arras areas, cover ground forces for three armored divisions, cover battleships, and dive-bomb Ile de Cezembre.

 

In Canadian First Army area, British I Corps continues to cross the Seine River on the left flank. II Corps attacks eastward from the Seine bridgehead with the 4^th Armoured Division on the right, the 3^rd Division in the center, and the 2^nd Division on the left.

 

In the British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, the 7th Armoured Division takes the lead and, together with the 4^th Armoured Brigade, speeds toward the Somme River, reaching a the Poix– Aumale line. In the XXX Corps area, the 11^th Armoured Division reaches Amiens and seizes a bridge across the Somme intact. The Guards Armoured Division and the 50th Infantry Division also reach the river, with the Guards Armoured Division crossing east of Amiens.

 

In US First Army’s XIX Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division continues northeast on the left flank of XIX Corps, to positions west of Montdidier, well ahead of the 79^th Division and the 30^th Division, which reach the area between Beauvais and Creil. V Corps passes the 5^th Armored Division, through the 28^th and 4^th Divisions. and continues northeast with all three. On the left, the 28^th Division, in conjunction with Combat Command B, of the 5^th Armored Division, closes along Oise River, in the Chantilly–Compiègne area, and crosses elements at Pont Ste Maxence. In the VII Corps area, while the 1^st Division consolidates in the Laon and Soissons areas, the 3rd Armored Division and the 9^th Infantry Division continue their pursuit northeast to the general line from Montcornet, to Rethel.

 

In US Third Army area, VIII Corps temporarily suspends operations against Brest and regroups. In the XX Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 7^th Armored Division, followed closely by the 5^th Division, establishes a bridgehead across the Meuse River at Verdun. The 90th Division remains in the Reims area. XX Corps advances, then comes to a halt to await gasoline. In the XII Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 4^th Armored Division, reaches the Meuse River, at Commercy and Pont sur Meuse, and establishes bridgehead. The 80^th Division, following on the left, reaches the Bar le Duc area.

 

European Theater, Southern France

In the US Seventh Army area, patrols of Task Force Bibo find Briançon free of enemy. VI Corps speeds up the Rhône River Valley toward Lyon. The 45^th Division is concentrating in the Meximieux area to protect the VI Corps’ right flank, and is prepared to move on Bourg en Bresse. The 3^rd Division, upon relief in the Rhône River Valley, assembles at Voiron, prepared to assist either the 36^th Division or the 45^th Division.

 

Eastern Europe
Troops of the Second Ukrainian Front overrun Bucharest, the capital of Rumania.

 

Mediterranean Theater

45 P-51s, from the 15^th Air Force, strafe the airfield at Reghin, in Rumania, while 97 others strafe airfields at Oradea and Kecskemet, in Hungary. Fighters destroy over 150 aircraft on the ground. Meanwhile, Operation REUNION, the evacuation of US airmen interned in Rumania, begins as 36 B-17s evacuate US airmen from Bucharest to Bari, Italy.

 

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack railroad bridges in the Po Valley, cutting the bridge at Mira, while other fighter-bombers attack communications targets in France .

 

British XIII Corps confirms rumors of the enemy withdrawal. One 1^st Division column pushes through Fiesole to Highway 6521, which runs from Florence, to Borgo San Lorenzo, and another takes Monte Muscoli and Monte il Pratone with ease.

 

The British Eighth Army penetrates the Gothic Line with elements of the British V Corps and the Canadian I Corps. Polish 2 Corps continues a hard battle for Pesaro.

 

During the night, IV Corps patrols cross the Arno River, in preparation for crossing it in force and confirm the fact that enemy is withdrawing.

 

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s hit gun positions and targets of opportunity in western Po River Valley.

 

General Clark orders the US Fifth Army to follow the withdrawing enemy.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (China)

The 14^th Air Force sends 12 B-24s to bomb the Takao harbor, in China. They damage the dock area and sink two tankers. Meanwhile, 14 B- 25s attack Tien Ho, White Cloud, Kai Tek, and Hengyang airfields, eight 8 B-25s attack numerous trucks south of Sintsiang and near Sinshih, hit roads south of Nanyo and damage a freighter near Sinshih and over 60 fighter-bombers attack trucks, barracks, supplies, rivercraft, bridges and troops in or near Sinshih, Changsha, Yangtien, Hengyang, Nanyo, Siangtan, Teian, and Shihhweiyao.

 

China – Burma – India Theater (Burma)

In Burma, six B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb targets of opportunity at Katha and three others hit bridges at Bawgyo and Hsenwi.

 

Southwest Pacific Area

General Krueger declares the Noemfoor operation at an end. Task Force CYCLONE has suffered 63 killed, 343 wounded, and three missing. They have killed about 1,730 Japanese and captured 186.

 

In Vogelkop area, the Commanding General of the Sixth Army, declares the Sansapor operation terminated. From July 30 to this date, Task Force TYPHOON has killed about 385 Japanese and Formosans, and captured 215 others. They have suffered 14 killed, 35 wounded, and nine injured.

 

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force P-47s, from Saipan Island, strafe gun positions at the airfield on Pagan Island. Meanwhile, Yap and Pagan islands are bombed by single B-24s.

 

North Pacific Area

During the night, a B-24, from the 11^th Air Force, bombs Kashiwabara, on Paramushiru Island, in the Kurile Islands.