WWII - 70 Years Ago

1,137 · December 31, 2014

Sunday, December 31,1944

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 772 – 1,327 bombers and 785 fighters hit both strategic and tactical targets in Germany, and are met by about 150 Luftwaffe fighters, mostly in the Hamburg area.

The RAF sends 155 Lancasters on a Gee-H raid on the railway yards at Vohwinkel, near Solingen.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 149 Lancasters and 17 Mosquitos to attack the railway yards at Osterfeld.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, elements of the 87^th Division capture Remagen and close in on Moircy. Combat Command R, of the 11^th Armored Division, drives to Pinsamont and Acul, while Combat Command B attacks Chenogne.

In the III Corps area, one 6^th Armoured Division column secures the high ground near Wardin. Another column advances to the outskirts of Rechrival. The 35^th Division is unable to relieve the isolated forces in Villers-la-Bonne-Eau, and they are presumed lost. The Germans still hold Lutrebois. The 26^th Division repels a counterattack and reorganizes. III Corps artillery places Time On Targets (TOT) on Wiltz.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers hit the bridge at Bodrez, railroads at Piazzola Sul Brenta and near Padua, and a dump.

XXII Tactical Air Command fighter-bombers destroy five railway bridges and damage two more, in the Po River Valley, cut rail lines at numerous places, destroy several locomotives, and destroy or damage over 200 railway cars.

The US Fifth Army has regained most of the ground lost by IV Corps, in the Serchio Valley, and positions are about the same as they were at the end of October.

The British Eighth Army has worked northward, astride the Naviglio Canal, between the Senio River and the Lamone River in the V Corps zone, to Granarole, but the enemy holds Granarole.

China Theater

Four B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, sink a freighter and damaged another, off Hainan Island. Four B-25s damage two bridges and destroy or damage five buildings at Mong Ping, Burma. In China, a group of 35 P-40s and P-51s attack troops, horses, town areas, and railroad targets.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 28 P-47s to attack the Laihka, Namsang, Aungban, Kunlon, and Heho airfields, in Burma. About 300 transport sorties are flown to forward areas throughout the day.

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, Kabo falls to the British 2^nd Division.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Leyte)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s and B-25s bomb airfields in the central Philippine Islands, on Luzon and Mindanao islands. Other B-24s bomb the Ambesia Airfield, on Celebes Island, hit Dili, on Timor Island, and pound airfields and supply areas throughout Halmahera Island.

On Leyte, in the US Eighth Army’s X Corps area, the 1^st Cavalry Division repels several counterattacks against Villaba.

In the XXIV Corps area, the 77^th Division’s 305^th Infantry finishes clearing the Palompon road. The 77^th Division estimates that, during period from December 21 to December 31, it has killed 5,779 Japanese, at cost of 17 Americans killed.

On Mindoro, the Japanese continue air attacks on shipping, sinking a PT boat tender and badly damaging a destroyer. A platoon of Company F, of the 19^th Infantry, lands at Bulalacao, on the southern coast, almost 25 miles southeast of San Jose.

Central Pacific Area

The 7th Air Force sends 19 B-24s, from Guam Island, to bomb Iwo Jima Island airfields.

During the night, 10 more B-24s hit Iwo Jima with individual harassment raids over a six hour period.

The Commander Fifth Fleet issues Operation Plan 13-44, directing the Joint Expeditionary Force to secure Iwo Jima, begin base development there, establish a military government, and withdraw the assault forces at the conclusion of the capture and occupation phase. February 19 is confirmed as D Day.

1,137 · January 1, 2015

Monday, January 1, 1945

American Theater

The Southern Defense Command is absorbed into Eastern Defense Command.

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 774 – 845 bombers and 725 fighters are dispatched to hit oil installations and rail bridges and junctions in western Germany

8^th Air Force Mission 775 – During the night, five B-24s and three B-17s drop leaflet on Belgium and Germany.

The 8^th Air Force redesignates the 1^st , 2^nd and 3^rd Bombardment Divisions as the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd Air Divisions.

During the night, the RAF sends 152 Lancasters and five Mosquitos to attack the Gravenhorst section of the Mittelland Canal. A half mile of the banks are pitted with bomb craters and some parts are reported as breached. Meanwhile, 146 aircraft attack the railway yards at Vohwinkel, while 105 Halifaxes, 18 Lancasters and 16 Mosquitos unsuccessfully bomb a benzol plant at Dortmund. In other action, 28 Mosquitos are sent to Hanau and 27 to Hannover, in “spoof” raids, 42 aircraft fly radio countermeasure sorties, and other aircraft fly 59 Mosquito patrols, shooting down six German night fighters. One Lancaster and crew are lost.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends 190 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to hit rail bridges, communications centers, a road junction, a command post, and headquarters, all in Belgium and Germany. Fighters escort both the 9^th Air Force and 8^th Air Force bombers, fly patrols, sweeps, and armed reconnaissance and support ground forces. They shoot down 39 Luftwaffe aircraft and destroy numerous ground targets.

The Luftwaffe launches an attack of 700 to 800 aircraft against 9^th Air Force and Allied airfields, mainly in the Brussels, Belgium, and Eindhoven, the Netherlands, areas, and to a lesser degree in the Metz area, of France. 127 operational Allied aircraft are destroyed. Allied fighters shoot down 160 aircraft, while anti-aircraft destroys another 300.

In the 12^th Army Group, the Commanding General of the 66^th Division takes over the 94^th Division’s mission of containing the enemy in the vicinity of Lorient and St. Nazaire, France.

The US Third Army continues the Ardennes counteroffensive with VIII Corps and III Corps.

In the VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division takes Moircy and Jenneville. The 11^th Armored Division attacks, with Combat Command A toward Hubermont, stopping east of Rechrival, and with Combat Command B, clears Chenogne and the woods to the north. Combat Command A, of the 9^th Armored Division, drives toward Senonchamps. The 101^st Airborne Division, in the Bastogne area, gives fire support to the 11^th Armored Division, on its left, and the 6^th Armored Division, of III Corps, on its right. The 17^th Airborne Division relieves the 28^th Division in the Neufchâteau area.

III Corps contains the enemy salient southeast of Bastogne, while the 4^th Armored Division holds the corridor into Bastogne and supports the 35^th Division with fire. The 35^th Division partially clears Lutrebois and reaches the crossroads southeast of Marvie, but makes no headway in the vicinity of Villers-la-Bonne-Eau, Belgium, and Harlange, Luxembourg. In the region east of Bastogne, the 6^th Armored Division takes Neffe, Bizery, and Mageret, but then loses Mageret.

In the 6^th Army Group area, the Germans launch an offensive, designated Operation NORDWIND, against the US Seventh Army.

In the XV Corps area, a two-pronged enemy thrust forces the 106^th Cavalry Group, the 44^th Division, and the 100^th Division to give ground. The 44^th Division bears the brunt of the enemy’s right flank drive, which penetrates positions northwest of Rimling. The 100^th Division, caught between the two attack forces, withdraws its right flank, which is become exposed by the withdrawal of Task Force Hudelson, of VI Corps, and clears enemy infiltrators from Rimling, on the left flank. Elements of Task Force Harris, of the 63^rd Division, help check the enemy. Regimental Combat Team 141, of the 36^th Division, moves up to plug the gap between XV Corps and VI Corps.

In the VI Corps area, the enemy drives a salient into the left flank of VI Corps, south of Bitche. Task Force Hudelson’s thin line is pushed back, on the left, to the Lemberg-Mouterhouse area. The 45^th Division contains the enemy along a line from Philippsbourg to Neuhoffen to Obersteinbach, and mops up infiltrators in Dambach. Reinforcements from Task Force Herren, of the 10^th Division, and the 79^th Division are rushed to the 45^th Division, whose boundary is moved west. Combat Command B, of the 14^th Armored Division, moves to guard the Vosges exits. The 79^th Division’s right flank is extended to include the Rhine River sector, from Schaffhouse to the Gambsheim area.

During the month of January, the XIX Tactical Air Command moves its headquarters from France to Luxembourg.

Eastern Europe

Fighting continues within and around Budapest, where the Russians are slowly eliminating the besieged German garrison.

Mediterranean Theater

Unfavorable weather restricts 15^th Air Force operations to P-38 reconnaissance flights.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack bridges at Palazzuolo sull'Oglio, Parma, and Calcinato (the latter 2 targets are missed) and an ammunition dump at Parma. Fighter-bombers support ground forces south of Bologna, hit communications and numerous targets of opportunity to the north and completely destroy a fuel dump at Parma.

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s continue intruder missions over the Po River Valley

The 319^th Bomb Group (Medium) departs Corsica for the US. They will convert to A-26 aircraft in preparation for assignment to the Pacific.

China Theater

In China, three B-24s, from the 14^th Air Force, bomb Ft. Bayard, while a group of 40 P-51s and P-40s pound railroad targets, warehouses, industrial works, and gun positions from Yoyang to Puchi, and eight P-51s hit the Suchow Airfield, destroying 25 aircraft. In other action, another group of 47 P-40s and P-51s, on armed reconnaissance, hit troops, horses, town areas, and rail and road traffic at several locations especially at Liuchenghsien, and between Siaokan and Hsuchang.

General Wedemeyer radios the War Department his plans to have US officers advise the Chinese ALPHA Force from group army headquarters down to the regimental level.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches a group of 71 P-47s and P-38s to attack villages, general supply areas, fuel dumps, tanks and other vehicles, and troop concentrations at several locations, including Man Hio, Bahe, Mongmit, Hatka, Namhpakka, Loi-hseng, Mong Yaw, and in the Hsenwi area. Four others hit targets of opportunity along the Irrawaddy River, from Tanaung to Kyungyi. Largescale air transport operations continue.

The British Fourteenth Army moves its headquarters from Imphal to Kalemyo, where the joint army-air headquarters is already established, to insure close cooperation.

During the night, four B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, harass communications lines.

During the month of January, the detachment of the the 436^th Bomb Squadron (Heavy), of the 7^th Bomb Group (Heavy), which has been ferrying gasoline to Suichwan, China, with B-24s, moves from Luliang, China back to its base at Madhaiganj, India.

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s and fighter-bombers make low level attacks on Negros Island airfields, while B-24s, with P-38 cover, bomb Clark Field, on Luzon Island, and others pound the Sasa area, on Mindanao Island. On Halmahera Island, in the Moluccas Islands, B-24s, along with B-25s, hit the Djailolo, Wasile Bay bivouac areas, and Miti ammunition dump. More B-25s bomb airfields on Ceram Island, in the Moluccas Islands, and barracks at Laoag, on Luzon. Fighter-bombers are active against targets in the Manila area, on Luzon, and also hit Silay, on Negros. Airfields, shipyards, and other targets in the Borneo, Celebes and Lesser Sunda Islands also sustain light raids, by fighters and bombers, which also fly armed reconnaissance.

Operations to deceive the enemy about Allied intentions against Luzon begin with limited action on Mindoro, to clear the northeast part of island. Subsequent deceptive measures conducted on southern Luzon are on a much smaller scale than anticipated and have little effect on the main operation.

On Mindoro, control of the Western Visayan Task Force passes from the US Sixth to the US Eighth Army. Company I, of the 21^st Infantry, moving by water from San Jose, lands on the east coast at Bongabong, without incident, and marches northward toward Pinamalayan.

On Leyte, the US Eighth Army mops up, a tedious business that lasts until May 8. The 77^th Division, of XXIV Corps, is ordered to relieve the 1^st Cavalry and the 32^nd and 24^th Infantry Divisions, of X Corps.

The 13^th Air Force moves the detachment of the 64^th Troop Carrier Sqaudron, of the 403^rd Troop Carrier Group, with C-47s, from Noemfoor Island, back to its base on Biak Island.

During the month of January, the 5^th Air Force relocates the 8^th Combat Cargo Squadron, of the 2^nd Combat Cargo Group, with C-46s, from New Guinea to Biak Island.

During the month of January, the 13^th Air Force moves the detachment of the 4^th Photographic Charting Squadron, of the 311^th Photographic Wing from Morotai Island, Moluccas in the Islands, back to its base at Hollandia, New Guinea. At the same time, a detachment of this squadron begins operating in Australia, mapping areas of the southwestern and western Pacific.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 19 B-24s, from Saipan Island, in the Mariana Islands, to bomb Iwo Jima Island, Volcano in the Islands.

In the Caroline Islands, elements of 321^st Infantry, of the 81^st Division, land on Fais Island, southeast of Ulithi, and begin a search of the island.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches nine B-24s, on snooper missions, to hit Iwo Jima Iisland at varying intervals.

North Pacific Area

The 11^th Air Force sends five B-24s to fly coverage for a naval force, upon aborting a bomb mission to the Kurile Islands.

1,137 · January 2, 2015

Tuesday, January 2,1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 776 – 1,011bombers and 503 fighters are dispatched to attack communications and tactical targets in western Germany.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 514 Lancasters and seven Mosquitos to Nuremberg. Meanwhile, 351 Halifaxes, 22 Lancasters, and 16 Mosquitos are sent to Ludwigshafen.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of 135 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to hit rail bridges and communications centers in Belgium and Germany.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, Gerimont falls to the 87^th Division, Mande St. Etienne falls to the 11^th Armored Division, and Senonchamps falls to Combat Command B, of the 10^th Armored Division.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division’s Combat Command B enters Oubourcy and Michamps, but is driven out of Michamps. They also unsuccessfully attack Arloncourt, while Combat Command A takes Wardin. The 6^th Armored Division withdraws to the high ground west of Michamps–Arloncourt–Wardin for the night. The 35^th Division continues to fight for Lutrebois.

US Seventh Army Command Post is moved from Saverne to Lunéville.

In the XV Corps area, enemy pressure forces the 44^th Division’s right flank back, past Gros Réderching and causes the 100^th Division’s right flank to fall back farther.

In the VI Corps area, the Germans maintain pressure against the reinforced 45^th Division, particularly on its western flank, the former zone of Task Force Hudelson. Fighting occurs at various points along Bitche salient. Task Force Herren’s 276^th Infantry takes up switch positions in Wingen–Wimmenau–Rosteig area. Combat Command A, of the 14^th Armored Division, organizes outposts at the Vosges exits around Bouxwiller. The center and right flank units of VI Corps begin withdrawal, to prepared positions on Maginot Line. The 79^th Division takes over the southern portion of Rhine River line, held by Task Force Linden, of the 42^nd Division.

Eastern Europe

The Germans are mounting strong counterattacks northwest of Budapest, in an effort to break the encirclement of the Hungarian capital.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force fighter-bombers concentrate their effort in the western Po River Valley and the Brenner area.

The British Eighth Army begins a series of limited actions to finish clearing the eastern bank of the Senio River.

In the Canadian I Corps area, the 5^th Armoured Division attacks northward, toward the sea, taking Conventelle.

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 24 – 49 B-29s, operating from Calcutta, India, are dispatched to attack a railroad bridge at Bangkok, Thailand. 44 hit the primary target and two hit an alternate and a target of opportunity.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches six B-25s to bomb Kentung, Burma. Meanwhile, a group of over 30 P-40s and P-51s, on armed reconnaissance, attack targets of opportunity.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, troop concentrations and supplies are attacked by 66 P-47s and 13 P-38s, of the 10^th Air Force. 546 transport sorties are flown to forward bases and frontline areas.

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area in Burma, the US 475^th Infantry begins crossing the Shweli River, over a makeshift bridge put in by the 138^th Regiment, of the Chinese 50^th Division, which crossed late in December.

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) P-38s and A-20s hit shipping in San Fernando harbor, on Negros Island. On Luzon Island, B-24s pound Clark Field and B-25s hit Batangas. Airfields in the central Philippine Islands area are bombed by B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers, while B-24s strike Likanan, on Mindanao Island, Menado, on Celebes Island, and the Wasile Bay area, on Halmahera Island.

Convoys of the Luzon Attack Force are assembling in the Leyte Gulf. The first echelon, Minesweeping and Hydrographic Group, Task Group 77.6, leaves Leyte Gulf for Luzon, and is soon spotted and attacked by enemy planes, including kamikazes.

On Mindoro, the guerrilla patrol is reinforced for an attack on Palauan, by Company B, of the 503^rd Parachute Infantry, which moves to Mamburao. Work begins on one of two heavy bomber fields to be constructed.

During the night, enemy planes attacking the airfields destroy 22 aircraft.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 12 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to hit Haha Jima Island, in the Bonin Islands, while 14 others pound Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, 10 B-24s, from the 7^th Air Force, flying snooper strikes out of Guam, hit Iwo Jima over a seven hour period.

The V Amphibious Corps Landing Force (VAC LANDFOR) Operation Plan 3-44, for the invasion of Iwo Jima, is approved.

1,137 · January 3, 2015

Wednesday, January 3, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 778 – 1,168 bombers and 589 fighters are dispatched to attack rail and communications targets in western Germany.

The RAF sends 99 Lancasters on Gee-H attacks on the Benzol plants at Dortmund and Castrop-Rauxel. One Lancaster and crew are lost.

European Theater, Western Europe

The US First Army starts a counteroffensive to reduce the enemy’s Ardennes salient from the north.

VII Corps attacks southeast, toward Houffalize, with the 2^nd Armored Division, followed by the 84^th Division, on the right, and the 3^rd Armored Division, followed by the 83^rd Division, on the left. The 2^nd Armored Division gains Trinal, Magoster, positions in Bois de Tave, Freineux, Le Batty, and positions near Belle Haie. The 3^rd Armored Division takes Malempré and Floret, and from Floret, continues southeast, on the Lierneux road, to Groumont Creek. The 75^th Division, after the attack passes through its line, continues mopping up south of Sadzot.

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, elements of the 87^th Division are temporarily surrounded in the woods east of St. Hubert. Late in the day, the 17^th Airborne Division attacks north in the region, some five miles northwest of Bastogne. Northeast of Bastogne, the 101^st Airborne Division and the 501^st Parachute Infantry are clearing Bois Jacques.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division repels enemy thrusts west of Michamps and places heavy artillery concentrations on Arloncourt, Michamps, and Bourcy. To the south, they attempt to clear the high ground, near Wardin, and they take the road junction south of the town. The 35^th Division gains about two thirds of Lutrebois and the crossroads west of Villers-la-Bonne-Eau, Belgium.

In the US Seventh Army area, XV Corps withstands further pressure and, on the left, slightly improves its positions. The Germans deepen their penetration at the boundary of the 44^th and 100^th Divisions, entering Achen, from which they are ousted in a counterattack. Combat Command L, of the French 2^nd Armored Division, pushes into Gros Réderching, but is unable to clear it.

In the VI Corps area, the enemy expands its Bitche salient, entering Wingen and Philippsbourg. The 45^th Division withstands pressure against Reipertsweiler, northwest of Wingen, and contains attacks in the Sarreinsberg–Meisenthal area.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers score direct hits on two railroad bridges at Lavis and fly good coverage of the Chiusaforte, Canale d'Isonzo, and Padua railroad bridges. Fighter-bombers hit a large number of communications targets, mainly railroad targets, in the Po River Valley

In the British Eighth Army’s 1^st Division begins an attack to clear an enemy pocket between it and British V Corps, in the Cotignola area, crossing the Naviglio Canal and taking Granarolo, in conjunction with the attack by V Corps, from the south.

In the V Corps area, elements of the 56^th Division and of the 7^th Armored Brigade, as well as a squadron of the Kangaroos, push northward, from the Felisio area, clearing the Senio River bank, as far north as San Severo.

China Theater

In China, 10 P-51s, from the 14^th Air Force, hit the airfield at Tsinan, destroying 13 aircraft. Six P-51s sink several river steamers in the Hankow-Chiuchiang area, while six others damage bridges at Chinchengchiang. A group of over 20 other P-40s, P-51s, and P-47s, on armed reconnaissance, attack various targets of opportunity.

On Salween front in China, the Chinese 9^th Division, of the 2^nd Army, breaks into Wanting, at the Sino-Burmese border, but is driven out in a nighttime counterattack.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 10 B-25s, supported by 12 P-47s, to attack the airfield at Aungban, and hit troop concentrations and supply and ammunition dumps at several locations. 575 transport flights are completed to forward areas.

In the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia (ALFSEA) area of Burma, XV Corps initiates Operation TALON, by invading Akyab, omitting preparatory bombardment, since no opposition is expected.

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound Clark Field and the Mabalacat areas, on Luzon Island. B-25s hit five airfields in the central Philippine Islands, while B-24s bomb two airfields on Mindanao Island. More B-24s attack the Djailolo supply area, on Halmahera Island, while B-25s bomb the Namlea Airfield, on Buru Island, in the Moluccas Islands.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 22 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to bomb Iwo Jima Island. Three from Guam Island, on armed reconnaissance, hit Marcus Island, in the North Pacific.

During the night, 10 B-24s, from Guam, hit Iwo Jima, over a six-hour period.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 17 – 97 B-29s, based on Mariana Island, are sent to bomb docks and urban areas of Nagoya, Japan.

In preparation for the invasion of Luzon, carrier planes of the US Third Fleet begin attacks, aimed primarily against enemy aircraft and shipping at Formosa. A secondary effort is made against the Ryukyus and Pescadores. Weather conditions severely limit scope of operations.

1,137 · January 4, 2015

Thursday, January 4, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

During the night, the RAF dispatches 347 Lancasters and seven Mosquitos to Royan. Meanwhile, 66 Mosquitos are sent to Berlin and seven to Neuss, and two Halifaxs fly radio countermeasure sorties.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army area, XXX Corps opens an offensive, west of the Ourthe River, protecting the US First Army’s right flank.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division captures Beffe, contains counterattacks near Devantave, seizes Lamorménil, and reaches the edge of Odeigne. The 3^rd Armored Division takes Baneux, Jevigne, and Lansival and gains a bridgehead at Groumont Creek.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division’s attack is halted by resistance near Pironpré. The attack of the 17^th Airborne Division evokes strong reaction in the Pinsamont–Rechrival–Hubermont area. Enemy attacks in the 101^st Airborne Division sector are ineffective.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division is repeatedly attacked in the Mageret–Wardin area, east of Bastogne, and withdraws to shorten their battle line. The 35^th Division clears Lutrebois, but is still unable to take Harlange.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, the 44^th Division tries vainly to clear Frauenberg and Gros Réderching. In a limited attack, the 36^th Division takes the hill between Lemberg and Goetzenbruck.

In the VI Corps area, the 45^th Division, continuing the fight to reduce the Bitche salient, drives to the outskirts of Wingen. They attack northeast, across the Wingen–Wimmenau road, to ease pressure on Reipertsweiler, and fights to open the Reipertsweiler–Wildenguth road. In the process, the 45^th Division takes Saegmuhl and makes contact with elements cut off in Wildenguth, and clears about half of Philippsbourg.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 370 B-24s and B-17s to bomb the marshalling yards at Verona, Bronzolo, Vicenza, Padua, Trento, and Bolzano, and station sidings at Trento, all in Italy. Over 200 fighters accompany the bombers, and 54 P-38s attempt high-level bombing of Cismon del Grappa.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force sends four B-24s to bomb the Ft. Bayard area, in China, and the Samah Bay area, on Hainan Island. In Burma, six B- 25s damage a bridge and a warehouse, and destroy two other buildings at Kentung, and 21 P-40s, on armed reconnaissance, pound targets of opportunity in the Wanling area. Eight P-51s knock out a bridge at Huizan, Thailand, and damage another, and 20 other fighters hit targets of opportunity around Lohochai, Sinyang and Hankow, in China.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 13 B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force , escorted by 12 P-47s, bomb the Namsang Airfield, while 12 P-47s hit bypass road bridges at Inailong and Bawgyo, damaging approaches to the latter. Troops and supply areas are hit by a group of 36 P-47s and P-38s. Transports fly 597 sorties to front areas and forward bases.

In the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia (ALFSEA) area, XV Corps completes the occupation of Akyab, a key port and air base on the Arakan front.

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the US 475^th Infantry finishes crossing the Shweli River. The US 124^th Cavalry reconnoiters for a crossing site over the Shweli River, while awaiting airdrop.

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound Puerto Princesa, on Palawan Island, while B-25s hit a railroad and highways in the San Pedro area, on Luzon Island. More B-25s and P-38s hit Tanamon and Sidate, on Celebes Island.

Japanese planes attack Task Group 77.6 and Task Group 77.2, as they continue toward Lingayen Gulf. One escort aircraft carrier is so badly damaged that it has to be sunk.

The Main body of the Luzon Attack Force sorties from Leyte Gulf after nightfall.

The US Eighth Army’s X Corps terminates its offensive operations on Leyte.

Japanese planes continue to be active over Mindoro and destroy an ammunition ship.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 13 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to pound Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, 10 B-24s, from the 7^th Air Force, hit Iwo Jima with individual harassment strikes.

In the Formosa-Ryukyus-Pescadores area, Task Force 38 continues strikes against enemy airpower and shipping, but weather conditions again sharply curtail action. As a result of the two-day attack, 110 Japanese planes are destroyed, 12 ships are sunk, and 28 other vessels are damaged. 18 planes of Task Force 38 are lost in combat.

1,137 · January 5, 2015

Friday, January 5, 1945

* * Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 781 – 1,032 bombers and 584 fighters are dispatched to hit rail targets and airfields in central Germany.

The RAF dispatches 160 Lancasters to attack the railway-yards at Ludwigshafen.

During the night, the RAF sends 340 Halifaxes, 310 Lancasters, and 14 Mosquitos to Hannover, in the first large raid on Hannover since October, 1943. Meanwhile, 131 Lancasters and nine Mosquitos attack Houffalize, a bottleneck in the German supply system in the Ardennes.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force attacks rail bridges at Ahrweiler, Simmern, and Bullay, in Germany, communications centers at Gouvy, Houffalize, and near Durler, in Belgium, and Massen, in Luxembourg.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division’s main effort against Consy makes little headway, as elements move toward Dochamps and clear part of Odeigne. The 3^rd Armored Division is slowed by rear-guard action, in Bois de Groumont, but seizes Lavaux and enters Lierneux.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 82^nd Airborne Division makes progress all along the line and repels counterattacks near Bergeval.

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division meets resistance near Bonnerue and Pironpré, west of Bastogne. The rest of VIII Corps maintains defensive positions.

In the III Corps area, the 35^th Division continues to fight for negligible gains.

In the US Seventh Army area, XV Corps clears the Germans from Frauenberg and Gros Réderching.

VI Corps makes slow progress against the Bitche salient, in the 45^th Division sector. Most of Wingen and the rest of Philippsbourg are cleared. On VI Corps right flank, the Germans establish a bridgehead across the Rhine River, in the Gambsheim area. They cross between Killstett and Drusenheim and overrun Offendorf, Herrlisheim, and Rohrweiler. Task Force Linden, hit while executing reliefs, launches a two-pronged assault toward Gambsheim.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

In British Eighth Army area, V Corps and Canadian I Corps complete limited attacks to improve their Winter Line positions. The two corps link up along the Senio River, between Cotignola and San Severo.

Canadian I Corps advances to the Reno River, except on the extreme right.

China Theater

In 14^th Air Force fighter action:

· A group of 29 P-40s and P-51s hit airfields at Hankow and Wuchang, China, destroying 50 aircraft in the air and on the ground.

· A group of 23 P-51s and P-38s hit the airfield and other targets in the Samah Bay area, on Hainan Island, destroying 11 aircraft.

· A group of 30 P-40s and P-38s attack various targets of opportunity, Sinsiang, and Kengtung, in China, and Wan Pa-Hsa and in the Wanling area, of Burma.

· Four P-40s pound fortified hill positions in the Salween, Burma area.

Operation GRUBWORM, the relocation of forces from Burma to China, one of the major transport achievements of the war, is completed on this date, one month from its start. The Chinese 14^th and 22^nd Divisions, the Chinese Sixth Army headquarters, a heavy mortar company, a signal company, and two portable surgical hospitals have been airlifted. The move required 1,328 transport sorties: Air Transport Command provided 597 sorties, air commando squadrons provided 488 sorties, and the 10^th Air Force aircraft provided 243. The airlift included moving:

· Over 25,000 Chinese soldiers.

· 396 US soldiers.

· 1,596 animals.

· 42 jeeps.

· 48 howitzers.

· 48 heavy mortars.

· 48 antitank guns.

The troops and supplies have been landed at Chanyi, Kunming, Luliang, and Yunnani, in China. Only three aircraft were lost during the operation.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 16 B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, flying an airfield sweep inflict considerable damage on the Laihka, Aungban, Kunlon, and Mong Long airfields. Transports fly over 550 sorties to forward bases and frontline areas.

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s hit shore installations along the Lingayan Gulf, Luzon Island, and bomb Menado, on Celebes Island. B-24s attack the Miri Airfield, in Borneo. Numerous smaller strikes are flown throughout the Philippine Islands and the Netherlands East Indies.

Kamikaze attacks on Task Groups 77.2 and 77.6 continue, causing damage to a number of vessels. Almost all of the estimated 30 attackers are destroyed. Escort carrier planes intercept and damage two enemy destroyers.

On Mindoro, Palauan falls to a composite force of guerrillas and 503^rd Parachute Infantry troops.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 22 B-24s, from Saipan Island, on morning and afternoon raids, to bomb Iwo Jima Island. Seven P-38s, with three B-24s as navigational escort, fly a strafing mission against Iwo Jima.

In the Volcano and Bonin islands, Iwo Jima undergoes a coordinated air-surface bombardment by land-based aircraft and a cruiser-destroyer task group. Surface vessels also bombard Chichi Jima and Haha Jima. PB4Ys photograph Iwo Jima.

1,137 · January 6, 2015

Saturday, January 6, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 783 – 816 bombers and 622 fighters are dispatched to hit rail and communications targets in western Germany.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 314 Halifaxes, 154 Lancasters, and 14 Mosquitos to Hanau. Meanwhile, 147 Lancasters are sent to Neuss, hitting the railway area and the surrounding districts.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 2^nd Armored and 84^th Infantry Divisions make converging attacks toward Consy, taking positions east and west of the town, respectively. The 2^nd Armored Division continues toward Dochamps, completes the occupation of Odeigne, and makes contact with the 3^rd Armored Division, on the Manhay–Houffalize road. The 3^rd Armored Division cuts the Laroche–Salmchâteau road, at its intersection with the Manhay–Houffalize road, and captures Fraiture, Lierneux, and La Falise, while the 83^rd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion clears Bois Houby.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the enemy gets tanks into Bonnerue, which is lightly held by the 87^th Division. The 87^th Division makes a limited attack toward Tillet.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division holds against repeated counterattacks. The 35^th Division attacks into the woods, northeast of Lutrebois, and maintains positions in the Villers-la-Bonne-Eau area.

In the XII Corps area, the 80^th Division’s 319^th Infantry crosses the Sure River, near Heiderscheidergrund, and captures Goesdorf and Dahl.

In the US Seventh Army’s XV Corps area, an attack to restore the main line of resistance, on the right flank of the 44^th Division, halts on a line extending along the southern edge of Bois de Blies Brucken to the area just north of Gros Réderching.

In the VI Corps area, the 45^th Division makes slow progress against the left and center of the Bitche salient, and, on the east, contains counterattacks on Philippsbourg. The Germans continue a build-up, west of the Rhine River, on the east flank of VI Corps. The 79^th Division clears Stattmatten, where encircled elements of Task Force Linden are relieved, Sessenheim, and Rohrweiler, and reaches the edge of Drusenheim. Further efforts of Task Force Linden to gain Gambsheim are fruitless.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers hit rail lines and bridges in the Genoa-La Spezia coastline area, and bomb vessels in the harbors at Genoa and Imperia.

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 25 – 49 B-29s, based at Chengtu, China, are dispatched to bomb an aircraft factory at Omura, Kyushu Island, Japan. This is the XX Bomber Command’s last mission against targets in Japan.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force sends a group of 40 P-40s, P-51s, and P-47s to attack the Hankow-Wuchang area, of China.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

Transports manage 310 sorties, landing men and supplies at advanced bases and dropping supplies to frontline troops.

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area in Burma, heavy rains begin as the US 475^th Infantry goes into bivouac and the US 124^th Cavalry makes its way toward Mong Wi.

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb Clark Field, while B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers blast bridges and targets of opportunity at Calumpit and Plaridel, and in nearby southern Luzon Island areas, with B-24s hitting Nichols Field and Nielson Airfield on Luzon.

Task Groups 77.2 and 77.6 reach the Lingayen Gulf area and begin naval bombardment and mine sweeping. Damaging enemy air attacks persist, in spite of the strong effort against Luzon by planes of Task Force 38, escort aircraft carriers (CVE) covering Task Force 77.2, and the Far East Air Force (FEAF).

On Mindoro, Pinamalayan, which the Japanese have recently abandoned, is re-occupied by fresh enemy troops from Luzon. Company I, of the 21^st Infantry, and guerrillas join in an attack there, forcing the enemy back toward Calapan.

Central Pacific Area

7^th Air Force sends 15 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb Iwo Jima Island airfields.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches nine B-24s on individual snooper strikes, to pound the airfields on Iwo Jima.

North Pacific Area

On Paramushiru Island, two B-24s, from the 11^th Air Force, bomb the Suribachi Bay Airfield, and hit buildings and pier areas.

1,137 · January 7, 2015

Sunday, January 7, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 785 – 1,073 bombers and 700 fighters attack communications centers, rail targets, bridges and an oil storage depot in western Germany.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 645 Lancasters and nine Mosquitos to Munich. This was the last major raid on Munich.

European Theater, Western Europe

In British Second Army’s XXX Corps area, the 53^rd Division takes Grimbiermont.

In US First Army’s VII Corps area, coordinated attacks of the 2^nd Armored and 84^th Infantry Divisions, toward the Laroche–Salmchâteau road, an intermediate objective before Houffalize, make notable progress. Dochamps and Marcouray fall. Only rear guards remain in the Consy area. The 3^rd Armored Division seizes Regne, Verleumont, Sart, and Grand Sart.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 82^nd Airborne Division, in a rapid advance of two to three miles, clears most of the angle formed by the Laroche–Salmchâteau road and Salm River. Some elements secure positions on the ridge just north of Comté, while others, during the advance to Salm River line, clear Goronne, Farniers, Mont, and Rochelinval. Regimental Combat Team 112 seizes Spineux, Wanne, and Wanneranval.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division continues their attack on Tillet and is engaged sporadically in the Bonnerue area. The 17^th Airborne Division takes Rechrival, Millomont, and Flamierge and reaches outskirts of Flamizoulle.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division remains under strong pressure in the Neffe–Wardin region, east of Bastogne. The 35^th Division makes a limited attack toward the Lutrebois–Lutremange road, halting just short of it.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 45^th Division, on the left flank of the Bitche salient, reaches the heights overlooking Althorn and overcomes the final resistance within Wingen. The Germans drive back outposts at Aschbach and Stundweiler. In the Gambsheim bridgehead area, efforts of the 314^th Infantry, of the 79^th Division, to clear Drusenheim are unsuccessful.

Eastern Europe
In Hungary, the Germans capture Esztergom, northwest of Budapest, and continue their efforts to relieve the Budapest garrison, which is being methodically destroyed.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

XXII Tactical Air Command fighters and fighter-bombers make six cuts on the Brenner rail line, damage the west end of the rail bridge at Cittadella, and hit the marshalling yard south of Trento.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force sends five B-24s to bomb Ft. Bayard, China, and attack shipping in Samah Bay, on Hainan Island. They sink one vessel.

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) sends large numbers of B-25s and A-20s, supported by P-38s, to hit the network of airstrips from Clark Field to Angeles Airfield, B-24s bomb Nielson and Grace Park airfields and Nichols Field. Meanwhile, B-25s and fighter-bombers pound bridges in the Plaridel and Calumpit areas, and B-24s raid the Padada and Daliao airfields, on Mindanao Island. Elsewhere, B-25s and fighter-bombers hit the Lembeh Strait and the Langoan areas, on Celebes Island, while other aircraft, on small-scale armed reconnaissance missions, strike targets of opportunity throughout the Philippine Islands.

Underwater demolition teams begin the search for underwater obstacles in the Lingayen Gulf, as the preinvasion aerial and naval bombardment of Luzon continues.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 11 B-24s, flying out of Saipan Island, to bomb an airfield on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, 10 B- 24s, from the 7^th Air Force, again pound Iwo Jima airfields, striking in single-bomber snooper missions, over a seven-hour period.

1,137 · January 8, 2015

Monday, January 8, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 787 – 736 bombers and 269 fighters are dispatched to attack communications centers, rail targets and bridges in Germany

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 4^th Cavalry Group and the 84^th Division pursue the enemy on the right of VII Corps, to Marcourt and Cielle. Other elements of the 84^th Division start clearing the woods, south of main road junction, southeast of Manhay. The 2^nd Armored Division drives on Samrée, and Combat Command A, moves south from Dochamps, and Combat Command B, pushes southeast along Salmchâteau– Samrée Road. The 3^rd Armored Division gains an intermediate objective line, taking Hebronval, Ottre, Jouvieval, and Provedroux.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, enemy forces drive the 87^th Division units from Bonnerue and maintains pressure in the Tillet region. Some 17^th Airborne Division elements gain and then lose high ground north of Laval and others are forced out of Flamierge.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 300 B-17s and B-24s to bomb the main station yard and north main marshalling yard at Linz, plus the marshalling yards at Graz, Villach, Klagenfurt, and Salzburg, all in Austria.

China Theater

In Burma, eight P-51s, from the 14^th Air Force, hit targets of opportunity, east of Muse and east of Wanling.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 21 B-25s to hit troops and supply areas at Nampeng and Mong Long, in Burma. 74 P-47s and P-38s attack troop concentrations and supply areas at Tunhunghkam, Monguy, Hpa-hpun, and Man Om, and 12 P-47s knock out a bypass bridge at Namhkai. Transports complete over 470 sorties to forward bases and frontline areas.

Southwest Pacific Area

Far East Air Force (FEAF) targets Luzon Island, as P-51s and P-40s strafe airfields in the Lingayen Gulf area, A-20s hit a variety of targets.

On Luzon, pre-invasion aerial and naval bombardment of the Lingayen Gulf area continues. Mine sweeping is completed.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 26 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 10 more B-24s, on individual snooper strikes over a six-hour period, to hit Iwo Jima.

1,137 · January 9, 2015

Tuesday, January 9, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

In Germany, 15 B-26s, from the 9^th Air Force, bomb the Rinnthal rail bridge, with the aim of isolating three enemy armored divisions, in the Landau area.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 84^th Division mops up near Consy, takes the commanding ground at Harze, and clears the woods south of the main crossroads, southeast of Manhay. The 2^nd Armored Division continues toward Samrée, which is subjected to heavy artillery fire. The 83^rd Division attacks through the 3^rd Armored Division, gaining a line from Bihain, which is entered but not captured, west to a point northeast of Petite Langlir.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division continues to fight near Tillet, as elements are clearing the Haies-de-Tillet woods. The 506^th Parachute Infantry, of the 101^st Airborne Division, attacks with Combat Command B, of the 4^th Armored Division, and Combat Command B, of the 10^th Armored Division, toward Noville, gaining 1,000 yards. The 501^st Parachute Infantry takes Recogne.

III Corps launches an attack to trap and destroy an enemy in pocket, southeast of Bastogne. The 90^th Division attacks through the 26^th Division, toward the high ground northeast of Bras, taking Berle and the crossroads on the Berle–Winseler road. The 26th Division gains are slight, but include the heights northwest of Bavigne. Combat Command A, of the 6^th Armored Division, coordinating closely with the 134^th Infantry, of the 35^th Division, advances to the high ground, southeast of Marvie, and feints toward Wardin. The 137^th Infantry, of the 35^th Division, attacks Villers-la-Bonne-Eau.

In the US Seventh Army area, VI Corps makes very slow progress against the Bitche salient, but Task Force Herren’s 276^th Infantry occupies Obermuhlthal. On the northeastern flank of the 79^th Division, a German tank-infantry attack, against the 242^nd Infantry, of Task Force Linden, overruns Hatten and reaches Rittershoffen. A counterattack drives the Germans back to Hatten and partly regains that town. In the Gambsheim bridgehead region, Combat Command B, of the 12^th Armored Division seizes part of Herrlisheim, but the 79^th Division is still thwarted in Drusenheim and southeast of Rohrweiler.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers attack bridges at Palazzuolo sull'Oglio, Pontetidone, Romano di Lombardia, and an assembly area at Crespellano.

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 26 – 46 B-29s, from Chengtu, China, are dispatched to bomb the harbor at Kirun, Formosa.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches six B-25s to hit railroad targets, road bridge, and building area northeast of Thanh Moi, French Indochina. Meanwhile, a group of 25 P- 40s, P-38s, and P-51s hit targets of opportunity south, southwest, and northeast of Wanling, Burma

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

In support of the Luzon landings, B-24s bomb Mabalacat, in north Luzon, while B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers destroy several bridges and numerous vehicles and trains throughout Luzon, and bomb several airfields. B-24s also hit Nielson Airfield and Nichols Field.

After preparatory aerial and naval bombardment the US Sixth Army, under the command of General Krueger, begins landing on the shores of Lingayen Gulf, at approximately 0930. General MacArthur is in over-all command. The Seventh Fleet commander, Admiral Kinkaid, heads the Luzon Attack Force, coded Task Force 77. Two corps land abreast, with XIV Corps on the right and I Corps on the left, without opposition. XIV Corps, with the 40^th Division on its right and the 37^th Division on its left, each with two regiments in assault, is virtually unopposed while pushing inland, to an average depth of four miles. This puts its flanks near Calasiao, on the east, and Port Sual, on the west. I Corps, more strongly opposed, is less successful. Its beachhead, by the end of the day, is narrower and shallower, than that of XIV Corps, and contains several gaps between assault forces. The 6^th Division, employing two regiments, gains a line from Dagupan to Pantalan River, and has elements at the Bued River crossing, south of San Fabian. The 43^rd Division attacks with three regiments, to positions in the vicinity of San Jacinto, Binday, and Hills 470, 247, and 385.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 24 B-24s, based on Saipan Island, to hit an airfield on Iwo Jima Island.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 18 – 72 B-29s, based on Mariana Island, are dispatched against the Musashino aircraft plant near Tokyo. Six B-29s are lost.

In support of the Luzon operation, carrier planes, of Task Force 38, attack airfields and shipping in Formosa, Pescadores, and Ryukyus areas despite unfavorable weather conditions. Task Force 38, under cover of darkness, then enters Japanese-controlled waters of the South China Sea, passing between Luzon and Formosa, without arousing enemy.

During the night, eight B-24s, from the 7^th Air Force, flying individual snooper missions, hits the same airfield struck in daytime missions.

1,137 · January 10, 2015

Wednesday, January 10, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 789 – 1,119 bombers and 362 fighters are dispatched to attack airfields, rail targets and bridges in Germany.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s XXX Corps area, the 51^st Division, which has taken over the attack from the 53^rd Divisions, reaches Laroche.

In the US Ninth Army’s XIX Corps area, the 78^th Division, in a local attack, reaches the slopes of the hills overlooking the Kall River.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, most of the Laroche–Salmchâteau road, an intermediate objective of VII Corps, is cleared. The 2^nd Armored Division captures Samrée and clears the Laroche–Salmchâteau road, within its zone. The 83^rd Division takes Bihain, advances slightly in the region north of Petite Langlir, and crosses Ronce River, east of Petite Langlir.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, elements of the 82^nd Airborne Division secure a bridgehead across Salm River, near Grand Halleux.

In US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division captures Tillet. Renewing their attack toward Noville, the 101^st Airborne Division clears a portion of Bois Jacques. 4^th Armored Division units, having passed through the 6^th Armored Division, attack northeast, with elements of the 101^st Airborne Division, toward Bourcy, but cease the attack upon order.

III Corps continues their attack, with the greatest progress on the right (eastern) flank. On the left flank, the 6^th Armored Division furnishes fire support for neighboring VIII Corps units and places outposts in the northern sector of the battle line, reached by the 4^th Armored Division. Elements of the 35^th Division take Villers-la- Bonne-Eau and the high ground northwest. Betlange falls to the 6^th Cavalry Squadron and Harlange falls to the 28^th Cavalry Squadron. One 90^th Division regiment advances from Berle to the heights overlooking Doncols, while another fights indecisively for a Trentelhof strongpoint. Elements of the 26^th Division reach the high ground southwest of Winseler.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches two B-24s to bomb the Cap Saint Jacques area, of French Indochina. In Burma, a group of over 50 P-51s, P-40s, and P- 38s pound various targets of opportunity.

In an effort to reopen the Canton–Hengyang stretch of the Canton–Hankow railroad, the Japanese move forward, as quietly as possible, about this time.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 75 fighter-bombers to attack troop concentrations, supplies, tanks, artillery, and buildings at various locations in Burma. 17 P-47s knock out a bridge, damage another at Bawgyo and two others at Ho-kho. Eight P-47s support ground forces in the Si-U battle sector, while eight others hit supplies and ferry crossing at Tamawngtawn. 472 transport sorties are flown to forward bases and frontline areas.

In Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area in Burma, the 114^th Regiment, of the Chinese 38^th Division, which is to move around south end of Shweli Valley and cut the Namhkam–Namhpakka trail, crosses the Shweli River.

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, Shwebo falls under combined attacks of the British 2^nd Division and the Indian 19^th Division. The Indian 20^th Division takes Budalin, after prolonged struggle.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the Grace Park Airfield and warehouse area near Manila, A-20s and fighter-bombers pound trucks, trains, railroad yards, railroads, and highways over wide areas of north and south Luzon, and bomb the Vigan and Laoag airfields.

In the XIV Corps area, the 185^th Infantry, of the 40^th Division, takes Labrador, while the 160^th Infantry pushes along Highway 13, toward Aguilar, reaching the Umanday area. The 148^th Infantry, of the 37^th Division, speeds inland to San Carlos, as elements continue to the Army Beachhead Line.

In the I Corps area, the 6^th Division drives south and southeast to Mapandan and the vicinity of Santa Barbara. The 169^th Infantry and the 172^nd Infantry run into organized defense positions on the hills confronting them.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 30 B-24s, based on Guam Island, operating in two separate formations, to bomb airfields on Iwo Jima Island. Two other B-24s, on armed reconnaissance, hit airfield on Woleai Atoll, in the Caroline Islands.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends B-24s, flying snooper missions from Guam, to bomb Iwo Jima airfields again.

1,137 · January 11, 2015

Thursday, January 11, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of about 120 A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to attack communications centers and rail bridges in Belgium and Germany.

In the US Ninth Army’s XIX Corps area, the 78^th Division finishes clearing the hill positions overlooking the Kall River.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, Laroche, in the 84^th Division sector, is cleared of enemy troops.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 87^th Division’s 347^th Infantry finishes clearing Haies-de-Tillet woods and occupies Bonnerue, Pironpre, Vesqueville, and St. Hubert, from which the enemy has withdrawn. The Germans are also withdrawing from the 17^th Airborne Division zone, in vicinity of Heropont, Flamierge, Mande St. Etienne, and Flamizoulle.

In the III Corps area, Task Force Fickett clears Wantrange and attacks Tarchamps, then moves into the zone of Task Force Scott, comprised mainly of units from the 26^th Division, as it advances on Sonlez. Task Force Fickett reaches Sonlez, by midnight, and makes contact with the 80^th Division. Elements of Task Force Scott clear the forest east of Harlange, then, in conjunction with Task Force Fickett, secure the heights southwest of Sonlez. The 90^th Division overcomes resistance around Trentelhof, cuts the Bastogne–Wiltz road, at Doncols, and advances on Sonlez.

In the XII Corps area, the 80^th Division takes Bockholz-sur-Sure and the high ground south of Burden. The 2^nd Cavalry Group clears Machtum, the enemy’s last position west of the Moselle River.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 45^th Division clears Althorn, west of the Bitche salient, but falls back under enemy pressure in the Wildenguth–Saegmuhl–Reipertsweiler region. The 276^th Infantry makes limited gains on the heights between Lichtenberg and Obermuhlthal. The enemy renews their attacks against the 79^th Division’s Maginot positions, south of Wissembourg, reinforcing troops in Hatten, where the 2^nd Battalion, of the 315^th Infantry, is enveloped, and wresting about two thirds of Rittershoffen, from the 3^rd Battalion, of the 315^th Infantry. Elements of Combat Command A, of the 14^th Armored Division, counterattack from Kuhlendorf, but are stopped short of Rittershoffen.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

Clearing weather enables an increase of fighter and fighter-bomber attacks in the Po River Valley.

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 27 – 47 B-29s, flying out of Calcutta, India, are dispatched to bomb two large dry docks at Singapore, Malaysia.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Large numbers of B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers, from the Far East Air Force (FEAF), concentrate on communications targets throughout northern Luzon Island and attack airfields, communications, and town areas in southern Luzon, the central Philippine Islands, and on Mindanao Island.

On Luzon, in the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 169^th Infantry tries in vain to take Hill 318, and gains a weak hold on Hill 560. The 172^nd Infantry, under intense fire, makes little headway. The Corps front is rapidly widening and extends nearly 30 miles, from south to north.

With the elimination of a small enemy force at Boac, Marinduque Island is now secure.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 23 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to attack airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, the bombing of Iwo Jima is continued by three B-24s, flying individual snooper strikes from the Mariana Islands.

1,137 · January 12, 2015

Friday, January 12, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

In the US First Army VII Corps area, the 2^nd Armored Division attacks in the vicinity of the junction of the Manhay–Houffalize and Laroche–Salmchâteau roads. Combat Command A takes Chabrehez, continues about a mile south in Bois de Belhez, and reduces a strongpoint east of Bois de St. Jean. Combat Command B captures Les Tailles and Petite Tailles. On the 3^rd Armored Division right, the 83^rd Armored Reconnaissance Battalion drives south through Task Force Hogan, formed around Combat Command R, at Regne, crosses the Langlir River, and clears Bois de Cedrogne, east of the Manhay–Houffalize road, and blocks the road there running west from Mont le Ban. Task Force Hogan moves to Bihain and clears the high ground southwest of the town. The 83^rd Division completes the capture of Petite Langlir and Langlir, and gains a bridgehead south of the Langlir-Ronce River.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the enemy continues withdrawing. The 87^th Division takes Tonny, Amberloup, Lavacherie, Orreux, Fosset, Sprimont, and the road junction northeast of Sprimont. The 17^th Airborne Division recaptures Flamierge. Flamizoulle is found to be heavily mined. Renuamont, Hubermont, and villages to the southwest are held by light, delaying forces.

In the III Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 6^th Armored Division, captures Wardin and advances to within a few hundred yards of Bras. The 357^th Infantry mops up Sonlez and continues to the high ground southeast of Bras. The 359^th Infantry repels attacks on the crossroads northeast of Doncols.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the enemy has shifted from an aggressive offensive to a stubborn defensive, in the Bitche salient. Efforts of the 45^th Division to regain ground, lost on January 11, are only partly successful. The 14^th Armored Division attacks to relieve the 315^th Infantry, of the 79^th Division, in Hatten and Rittershoffen. Combat Command A clears part of Rittershoffen. The situation in the Gambsheim bridgehead is unchanged.

Eastern Europe

Soviet forces open a powerful winter offensive in Poland. With strong artillery support, the First Ukrainian Front leads off, attacking west from the Sandomierz bridgehead, over the Vistula River, in southern Poland.

The battle for Budapest continues, with the Red Army deepening its penetration into the city.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

10^th Air Force transports fly 544 sorties, landing men and supplies at forward bases and dropping supplies to troops in battle sectors.

In Burma, in the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia (ALFSEA) XV Corps area, the 3^rd Commando Brigade lands on the Arakan coast, at Myebon, after an air and naval bombardment, and establishes a firm beachhead, which the enemy, soon attempts to destroy, without success.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb the San Jose del Monte area and bivouac areas, on north Luzon. Other B-24s hit the Legaspi and Batangas airfields, on Luzon, and the Matina Airfield, on Mindanao Island, while B-25s bomb Fabrica warehouses, on Negros Island.

In the South China Sea, Task Force 38, still unmolested by the enemy, makes surprise air attacks on enemy shipping, off French Indochina, and on airfields and shore installations, from Saigon north to Tourane. Shipping targets are plentiful, including several convoys, and the Task Force destroys some 40 ships and damages many others.

On Luzon, in the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 40^th Division’s 185^th Infantry takes Port Sual, the west terminus of Army Beachhead Line, without a fight, and continues west, toward Alaminos. The 37^th Division is consolidating on the Army Beachhead Line, as elements move into Bayambang and Urbiztondo, without opposition.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 28 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb airfields on Iwo Jima Island, while three other B-24s, on armed reconnaissance from Saipan Island, bomb Marcus Island.

During the night, Iwo Jima is hit by snooper strikes by four B-24s, from the Mariana Islands.

The Joint Expeditionary Force, Task Force 51, less those elements in the Marianas, begins rehearsals in the Hawaiian area for landing on Iwo Jima. Rehearsals conclude by January 18.

1,137 · January 13, 2015

Saturday, January 13, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 791 – 958 bombers and 469 fighters are dispatched to hit marshalling yards and Rhine rail bridges.

The RAF sends 158 Lancasters to attack the railway yards at Saarbrücken.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 242 Halifaxes, 20 Lancasters, and 12 Mosquitos to the railway yards at Saarbrücken. Meanwhile, 218 Lancasters and seven Mosquitos attack the oil plant, near Stettin.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends 95 bombers to attack road and rail bridges at Dasburg, Steinebruck, and Simmern, to disrupt enemy movements.

In the US First Army area, VII Corps pushes steadily toward Houffalize. On right flank, the 4^th Cavalry Group and the 84^th Division clear several towns and villages. Combat Command A, of the 2^nd Armored Division, reaches positions about one and a half miles north of Wibrin. Combat Command B advances in Bois de Cedrogne, to points five to six miles due north of Houffalize. The 3^rd Armored Division’s Combat Command R cuts the Sommerain–Cherain road, at its junction with the road to Mont le Ban, and contains Mont le Ban, while Combat Command B takes Lomre. After clearing a passage through woods, south of Langlir, for the 3^rd Armored Division, the 83^rd Division mops up and regroups.

XVIII Corps (Airborne) an opens offensive, employing the 106^th Division on the right and the 30^th Division on the left. The 106^th Division, with the 424^th Infantry on the right and the 517^th Parachute Infantry on the left, attacks southeast, from the junction of the Amblève River and the Salm River, toward a line running from La Neuville to Coulee to Logbiermé to Houvegnez, reaching positions near Henumont. The 30^th Division drives south from the Malmédy area, toward the Amblève River, gaining positions near Hédomont, in the Houyire woods, and in Thirimont area. During the night, some elements of the 30^th Division attack toward Hédomont and Thirimont, and take Hédomont before dawn.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, advance elements of the 87^th Division reach the Ourthe River and make contact with the British. The 17^th Airborne Division takes Salle, north of Flamierge, without opposition. The 11^th Armored Division, which has relieved elements of the 101^st and 17^th Airborne Divisions, attacks north, with Combat Command R and Combat Command A, along the Longchamps–Bertogne axis, cutting the Houffalize–St. Hubert highway, near Bertogne. Bertogne is enveloped. The 506^th Parachute Infantry, of the 101^st Airborne Division, seizes Foy, on the Bastogne–Houffalize highway. The 327^th Glider Infantry advances through the 501^st Parachute Infantry, in Bois Jacques, toward Bourcy.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division drives northward, with Combat Command B partially clearing Mageret. The 90^th Division drives the enemy from Bras and gains Hill 530.

In the VI Corps area, the 45^th Division makes minor gains against the Bitche salient. Combat Command A and the 3^rd Battalion, of the 315^th Infantry, continue to fight in Rittershoffen. Combat Command R secures the west third of Hatten and makes contact with the 2^nd Battalion, of the 315^th Infantry. Efforts of Combat Command B to cut the roads north and northeast of Hatten fail.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s hit the Tarlac barracks and storage area, the Batangas Airfield, and troop concentrations at San Juan, Del Monte, Muzon, and San Vicente. P-47s fly a sweep from Laguna de Bay to Tarlac, destroying parked aircraft and vehicles, and A-20s hit the town of Batangas and nearby railroads and highways, and bomb the Lucena and Calingatan airfields. Also the northern Luzon area is hit throughout the day by small raids.

With scattered strikes at Lingayen Gulf, major enemy air attacks on the Luzon Attack Force come to an end.

In the XIV Corps area, elements of 185^th Infantry, of the 40^th Division, move along the coast of the Lingayen Gulf, to a site chosen for a seaplane base in Cabalitan Bay, and find that Allied Naval Forces have already secured it without enemy interference. Wawa falls to elements of the 37^th Division.

In the I Corps area, the 6^th Division gains its holding line, from Malisiqui to Catablan to Torres. In the 43^rd Division zone, Regimental Combat Team 158 takes Damortis, without a struggle. Attacking from the Alacan area, the 63^rd Infantry gets about halfway to Hill 363, its first objective. Hills 580 and 318 are practically cleared by the 172^nd and 169^th Regiments, respectively.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 14 B-24s, based on Saipan Island, to hit an airfield on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches two B-24s, from Guam and Saipan Islands, to hit the same airfields on Iwo Jima, attacked earlier in the day.

1,137 · January 14, 2015

Sunday, January 14, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 792 – About 250 Luftwaffe fighters attack the 911bombers and 860 fighters dispatched to attack oil refineries and plants in central Germany and highway bridges at Cologne.

The RAF dispatches 134 Lancasters to attack the railway yards at Saarbrücken.

During the night, the RAF sends 573 Lancasters and 14 Mosquitos on two attacks, three hours apart, on the synthetic oil plant at Leuna.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 280 A-20s and B-26s to attack bridges and communications centers in the base area of the Ardennes salient, and in other areas of western Germany.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 84^th Division gains its final objectives, taking Nadrin, Filly, Petite Mormont, and Grande Mormont. The 2^nd Armored Division seizes Wibrin, Cheveoumont, Wilogne, and Dinez. The 3^rd Armored Division takes Mont le Ban and Baclain. The 83^rd Division clears Honvelez and the high ground near Bovigny.

In the XVIII (Airborne) Corps’ 106^th Division sector, the 517^th Parachute Infantry clears Henumont and continues south, while the 424^th Infantry secures Coulee and Logbiermé. Elements of the 30^th Division clear Villers and Ligneuville and gain bridgeheads across Amblève River at these points.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, the 101^st Airborne Division continues their attack toward the Noville–Rachamps–Bourcy area. Elements are forced out of Recogne and Foy, but both are regained in counterattacks. The enemy is cleared from Cobru.

In the III Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 6^th Armored Division clears the woods east of Wardin and captures Benonchamps. Combat Command B finishes clearing Mageret.

In the XX Corps area, the 94^th Division opens a series of small-scale attacks, to improve defensive positions in the Saar River–Moselle River triangle, south of Wasserbillig, a strongly fortified switch position of the West Wall. The 376th Infantry takes Tettingen and Butzdorf.

In the VI Corps area, the enemy continues a vigorous defense of the Bitche salient. The 45^th Division makes slight gains along its perimeter. The 14^th Armored Division battles the enemy in Rittershoffen and Hatten.

Eastern Europe

The Red Army offensive in Poland broadens, as the First White Russian Front attacks from bridgeheads over the Vistula River, south of Warsaw, the Second White Russian Front attacks from the Narew River bridgeheads, north of the capital. In southern Poland, the First Ukrainian Front concentrates forces at the Nida River and cuts the Kielce–Cracow railroad. Heavy fighting continues in Budapest, with the German garrison slowly giving ground.

The Germans are steadily withdrawing forces from Yugoslavia.

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 28 – 82 B-29s, flying out of Chengtu, China, are dispatched to bomb air installations at Kagi, Formosa.

China Theater

In China, 27 B-24s, of the 14^th Air Force, supported by a group of 45 P-51s and P-40s, pound Hankow, destroying eight enemy aircraft. Meanwhile, seven B-25s hit targets at and west of Kengtung, while a group of 42 P-47s, P-40s, and P-51s attack airfields at Wuchang and Hankow, destroying 17 Japanese aircraft.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends 12 B-25s to hit troops, stores area, and knock out three bridges near Nampawng and Hay-ti. 26 fighter-bombers support ground forces at Si-U and at Mabein, while over 60 fighter-bombers pound supply areas, troop concentrations, and general targets of opportunity. Transports fly 487 sorties to forward areas.

In British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area of Burma, the Indian 19^th Division secures the bridgehead across the Irrawaddy River, at Thabaikkyin, evoking a speedy and violent reaction from the Japanese. The enemy mistakes the 19^th Division for IV Corps, as hoped, and, to avert the threat to Mandalay, rushes reserves forward, thus weakening other sectors. For the next month, the Indian 19^th Division withstands repeated and determined counterattacks.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s pound Aparri Airfield, on Luzon, while supporting P-51s destroy several parked aircraft, and A-20s bomb Clark Field destroying numerous parked aircraft. Meanwhile, B-24s hit troop concentrations at Cabanatuan, while groups of B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers, over wide areas of Luzon.

In US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area on Luzon, the 40^th Division’s Reconnaissance Troop reaches Alaminos, while the 160^th Infantry drives south along Route 13, from Aguilar to Mangatarem. Pushing south across the Agno River, the 129^th Infantry, of the 37^th Division, takes Bautista, and the 37^th Division Reconnaissance Troop finds Camiling undefended.

In the I Corps area, the 6^th Division continues a holding action and patrols actively. In the 43^rd Division zone, the 158^th Infantry attacks toward Rosario, but meets such heavy fire in the defile, near Amlang, that it pulls back, approximately to its starting line. The 63^rd Infantry seizes Hill 363. After taking Hill 351, which has been bypassed, and mopping up on Hill 580, the 172^nd Infantry secures Hills 585 and 565, and pushes on toward Hill 665.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 22 B-24s, from Saipan Island, and 21 more, from Guam Island, to bomb airfields on Moen Island, in the Truk Atoll. Nine P-38s escort the Saipan B-24s. Meanwhile, 12 B-24s, from Guam, pound an airfield on Iwo Jima Island.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 19 – 73 B-29s, from the Mariana Islands, are dispatched to bomb the Mitsubishi aircraft plant at Nagoya, Japan.

1,137 · January 15, 2015

Monday, January 15, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 794 – 640 bombers and 782 fighters are dispatched to hit marshalling yards in Germany

European Theater, Western Europe

On US First Army’s VII Corps right, the 2^nd Armored Division clears Achouffe, Mont, and Tavernaux and sends patrols to the Ourthe River and into Houffalize, which has been vacated by the enemy. The 3^rd Armored Division attacks, with Combat Command R toward Vaux and Brisy, taking Vaux, and with, Combat Command B toward Cherain and Sterpigny. Elements of Combat Command A are committed as reinforcements. A battalion of the 83^rd Division attacks Bovigny, but is unable to take it.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 75^th Division attacks across the Salm River, before dawn, and seizes Salmchâteau and Bech. The 106^th Division consolidates and clears Ennal. The 30^th Division takes Beaumont, Francheville, Houvegnez, and Pont, improves its positions south of Ligneuville, and clears the north part of Thirimont.

V Corps opens an offensive to clear the heights between Buellingen and Amblève, and to protect left flank of XVIII Corps. The 1^st Division, reinforced by Regimental Combat Team 23, of the 2^nd Division, attacks southeast, with the 23^rd Infantry on the right, the 16^th Infantry in the center, and the 18^th Infantry on the left. They gain Steinbach, a neighboring village of Remonval, and the north half of Faymonville, but are held up south of Butgenbach by heavy fire.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 11^th Armored Division, takes Compogne and Rastadt, and reaches Vellereux. They fall back, west of Vellereux, under a counterattack in the Rau de Vaux defile. Combat Command B bypasses Neville and clears the woods to the east. The 506^th Parachute Infantry, of the 101^st Airborne Division, occupies Neville.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division, employing the 320^th Infantry, of the 35^th Division, overcomes house-to-house resistance in Oubourcy. Combat Command B takes Arloncourt, while Combat Command A clears the heights southwest of Longvilly. The 358^th Infantry, of the 80^th Division, meets unexpectedly strong resistance as it resumes a northeast attack. The 1^st Battalion makes a forced march into the 6^th Armored Division sector, to attack Niederwampach, from the Benonchamps area, and gains the town after an artillery barrage by 14 field artillery battalions. The 357^th Infantry battles strongpoints in and around the railroad tunnels along the Wiltz River valley, while the 359^th Infantry starts to Wardin.

In the XX Corps’ 94^th Division zone, the 1^st Battalion, of the 376^th Infantry, holds Tettingen and Butzdorf against a counterattack, while the 3^rd Battalion takes Nennig, Wies, and Berg.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 400 B-24s and B-17s, escorted by over 270 P-38s and P-51s, to bomb the marshalling yards and other railroad communications in northeastern and southeastern Vienna, Austria, and the marshalling yard at Treviso, Italy.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

The 12^th Air Force resumes combat operations as the weather clears, sending medium bombers to concentrate on the Brenner rail line. They fly nearly 150 sorties against bridges at San Michele all'Adige, Rovereto, Ala, Lavis, Santa Margherita d'Adige, and Motta di Livenza.

The XXII Tactical Air Command attacks communications in the Po River Valley and further north, destroying or damaging several bridges and a very large number of railway cars, most of them at the Como marshalling yard.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 18 B-25s, supported by a group of 20 P-51s and P-40s, to attack Hankow, China. Others hit the Wan Pa-Hsa town area, in Burma, and damage a nearby bridge.

The Japanese begin an offensive for the Suichwan airfields, driving along the Chaling–Lienhwa road.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 12 B-24s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb a troop concentration and the supply area at Mong Ngaw, while six fighter-bombers damage a bridge at Namhkai, and 11 support ground forces along the Irrawaddy River. Transports fly 527 sorties to forward areas.

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area of Burma, the inaugural convoy from Ledo reaches Myitkyina, where it halts to wait for the enemy to be cleared ahead. The Chinese 30^th Division takes Namhkam with ease, gaining control of the lower end of the Shweli Valley.

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, the Indian 19^th Division secures another bridgehead across the Irrawaddy River, at Kyaukmyaung.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers attack objectives on Luzon Island, in the central Philippine Islands, and on Palawan Island, hitting highways, railroads, airfields and numerous targets of opportunity, including tanks, trucks, and other vehicles. B- 24s also bomb Jesselton Airfields, in Borneo.

In US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area of Luzon, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 160^th Infantry, takes San Clemente, forcing the enemy party back, toward Camiling. Elements of the 129^th Infantry and the 37^th Reconnaissance Troop, of the 37^th Division, intercept the enemy party near Camiling and disperse it.

In the I Corps area, in the 43^rd Division zone, the 158^th Infantry, assisted by artillery, naval gunfire, and aircraft, begins clearing the defile near Amlang, on the road to Rosario. The 172^nd Infantry clears Hill 665 and reaches the Damortis-Rosario road, within one and a half miles of Rosario.

In the Camotes Islands, protected by 5^th Air Force planes and PT boats, the 7^th Division Task Force lands, unopposed, on the north and south tips of Ponson Island.

On Mindoro, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 21^st Infantry, driving on Calapan, meets delaying opposition, along the Gusay Creek.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 12 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to hit airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, two B-24s, operating singly from Guam Island and Saipan, strike Iwo Jima airfields.

Task Force 38, severely handicapped by weather conditions, launches air strikes against shipping, airfields, and ground installations on Formosa and along the coast of China, from Hong Kong to Amoy. Because of deteriorating weather conditions, some of the planes are diverted to Mako Ko, in the Pescadores, and others to Prates Reef.

1,137 · January 16, 2015

Tuesday, January 16, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 796 – A planned major strike at oil and industrial targets in Germany is cancelled because of bad weather. The 627 bombers and 693 fighters are then dispatched to hit secondary targets. Due to heavy fog a large percentage of the bombers are diverted to various landing fields in the UK and on the Continent.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 320 Halifaxes, 44 Lancasters, and seven Mosquitos to Magdeburg. Elsewhere, 328 Lancasters are sent to Zeitz, hitting the Braunkohle-Benzin synthetic-oil plant near Leipzig. In other action, 231 Lancasters and six Mosquitos attack a synthetic-oil plant at Brüx, in western Czechoslovakia, and 138 Lancasters attack the benzol plant at Wanne-Eickel.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a force of 311A-20s, A-26s, and B-26s to hit road and rail bridges, communications centers, motor transport repair center, and other targets in Germany.

In the British Second Army area, XII Corps opens Operation BLACKCOCK, with the 7^th Armored Division driving northeast and seizing Dieteren, Holland. Operation BLACKCOCK is a XII Corps effort to clear the enemy salient between the Meuse River and the Roer-Wurm Rivers, from Roermond southward.

In US First Army’s VII Corps area, VII Corps and VIII Corps, of US Third Army, establish contact near Houffalize. The 2^nd Armored Division occupies part of Houffalize, north of Ourthe River. Enemy resistance continues on the left flank of VII Corps. The 3^rd Armored Division captures Sommerain, Cherain, and Sterpigny, but is unable to take Brisy. An attempt to get a tank force from Cherain to Rettigny fails.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 75^th Division makes slow progress, east of the Salm River.

In the V Corps area, the 1^st Division captures Ondenval and the rest of Faymonville.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 11^th Armored Division, takes Vellereux and pursues the enemy through Mabompré. Combat Command B, after advancing northeast through Wicourt, secures the high ground south of Houffalize.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division continues northeast toward Moinet, as the 320^th Infantry, which is attached to the 6^th Armored Division, takes Michamps, and Task Force La Grew, of Combat Command A, under the command of Lt. Colonel Jack La Grew, advances through Longvilly.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 45^th Division, on the eastern flank of the Bitche salient, withstands pressure near Obermuhlthal. Combat Command A, of the 14^th Armored Division, is halted in Rittershoffen, and Combat Command R loses ground in Hatten. In the 79^th Division sector, elements of the 232^nd Infantry intercept a German force at Dengolsheim and drive it back to Dahlhunden. The 12^th Armored Division attacks to reduce the Gambsheim bridgehead, as infantry elements, of Combat Command B, cross the river, southeast of Rohrweiler, but fall back to Rohrweiler when enemy fire prevents construction of bridge for their armor. Combat Command A, attacking from Weyersheim toward Offendorf, makes better progress but fails to reach their objective.

Eastern Europe

Radom, Poland, falls to the First White Russian Front.

China Theater

In China, 4 B-25s and 8 P-40s, from the 14^th Air Force, destroy a train north of Hankow and eight B-25s pound Wanting. A force of over 180 P-51s, P-40s, and P-38s, on armed reconnaissance, attack numerous targets of opportunity.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 12 B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, attack a troop concentration and supply dump at Namtoi, while 15 P-47s support ground forces near Yenya-u and south of Shadaw, and 22 more bomb airfields at Anisakan and Nawnghkio. Transports fly 550 sorties to forward areas.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers pound Japanese concentrations, trains, trucks, and targets of opportunity on Luzon Island. Other B-24s hit airfields in northern Borneo and on Halmahera Island.

On Luzon, during the night, the Japanese make local counterattacks but are driven back, with heavy losses.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 10 B-24s, from Guam Island, to bomb an airfield on Iwo Jima Island.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) sends 44 B-29s, of the 313^th Bomb Wing (Very Heavy), on a shakedown mission against the airfield on Pagan Island, in the Mariana Islands.

In the China Sea, Task Force 38 planes attack shipping, airfields, and ground installations along the Chinese coast, from Swatow to the Luichow Peninsula, and at Hainan Island. The main effort is against Hong Kong, where a good concentration of shipping is found. Results against shipping and aircraft are disappointing, but important ground installations are also hit. Enemy air strength proves surprisingly weak.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends three B-24s to fly snooper strikes against Iwo Jima airfields.

1,137 · January 17, 2015

Wednesday, January 17, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 798 – 700 bombers and 362 fighters are dispatched to make visual attacks on oil refineries at Hamburg and Harburg and Gee-H and H2X attacks on rail targets.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 72 Mosquitos to Magdeburg, eight to the Ruthen oil-storage depot and three each to Cologne, Frankfurt, Koblenz and Mannheim.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s XII Corps area, some elements of the 7^th Armored Division advance northeast from Dieteren and seize Echt, while others move south and take Susteren.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division mops up and improves its positions near Cherain and Sterpigny. The 331^st Infantry, of the 83^rd Division, starts to clear the high ground southwest of Courtil.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 75^th Division seizes Petit Thier, Vielsalm, and neighboring villages.

In the V Corps area, the 1^st Division, making a main effort on the right, fights to clear a defile south of Ondenval. The 23^rd Infantry attacks toward the high ground north and northwest of Iveldingen.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, Bourcy and Hardigny fall to the 101^st Airborne Division.

In the III Corps area, the 6^th Armored Division meets heavy resistance near the Bourcy–Longvilly road. The 90^th Division resists enemy efforts to regain Oberwampach and clears the wooded area south of the railroad tracks.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 1^st Battalion, of the 315^th Infantry, attached to the 14^th Armored Division, attacks toward Rittershoffen, where Combat Command A is still engaged, but cannot reach the town. Combat Command R withstands enemy pressure in Hatten. The Germans continue to be aggressive in the 232^nd Infantry’s sector of the 79^th Division front, occupying Roeschwoog, Dengolsheim, Stattmatten, and part of Sessenheim, but a counterattack clears Sessenheim. The 12^th Armored Division makes little headway against the Gambsheim bridgehead, as Combat Command B is again held up at the river, southeast of Rohrweiler, and Combat Command A gains a precarious foothold in Herrlisheim, with the 17^th Armored Infantry Battalion, but the 43^rd Tank Battalion is cut off outside the town and wiped out.

Eastern Europe

The First White Russian Front overruns Warsaw, capital of Poland.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers, taking advantage of improved weather conditions, attack six rail targets on the Brenner rail line, blocking the line at Calliano, cutting tracks at Ora, and destroying a section of the bridge at Sacile.

India – Burma Theater (India)

20^th Air Force (XX Bomber Command) Mission 29 – 92 B-29s, from Chengtu, China, are sent to bomb the airfield at Shinchiku, Formosa. One B-29 is lost.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches 12 B-25s to bomb the town area, river shipping, and trucks at Ishan, while three B-25s and eight P-40s pound sampans and storage areas west of Hengshan, and two more B-25s hit an oil dump and other targets of opportunity in the Hsiang River Valley and blasts a troop compound at Chaling, all in China.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, four B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, demolish two bypass bridges at Ho-hko, while eight others pound the village of Mansam. 20 P-47s support ground forces along the Irrawaddy River, hitting targets at Konkha, Onbaing, and Wabyudaung. Transports fly 489 sorties to forward bases and frontline areas.

In Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area in Burma, the US 5332^nd Brigade clears Japanese outpost from Namhkam village, within three miles of the Burma Road, and begins to clear the ridge, which this village surmounts.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb railroad yards at Legaspi, while B-25s hit roads and railways east of Manila, destroying many railroad cars and troop-laden trucks. Other B-24s pound the Daliao area, on Mindanao Island, and the Talisay Airfield, on Negros Island.

In the I Corps area, the 6^th Division begins a push on the Cabaruan Hills, with the 20^th Infantry, and on Urdaneta, with the 1^st Infantry. The 25^th Division attacks in the center of I Corps, with the 27^th Infantry on the right and the 161^st Infantry on the left. The 103^rd Infantry, of the 43^rd Division, takes Pozorrubio, from which most Japanese have withdrawn. The 158^th Infantry takes the ridge about 1,000 yards northeast of Damortis.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 14 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to pound airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches two B-24s, from Guam and Saipan, on individual harassment strikes against Iwo Jima.

1,137 · January 18, 2015

Thursday, January 18, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

In British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, the 7^th Armoured Division, on the left flank of XXII Corps, seizes Schilberg, opening the highway from there to Sittard, and Heide, northeast of Susteren. In the center, the 52^nd Division goes on the offensive along the German-Dutch frontier and clears several German towns.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 75^th Division clears part of Burtonville. The 30^th Division takes Poteau and surrounds a roadblock at the junction of the Recht–Born and Malmédy– St. Vith roads.

In the V Corps area, the 1^st Division repels a counterattack in densely wooded Rohrbusch, eliminates a pocket south of the Amblève River, in the Wolfsbusch, but makes slow progress in the woods south of Butgenbach.

In US Third Army’s III Corps area, though a German attack on Oberwampach is repulsed by the 90th Division, enemy shelling of the town increases.

XII Corps opens an offensive at 0300 hours, when the 4^th Division and the 5^th Division attack abreast, north, across the Sauer River, between Reisdorf and Ettelbruck, surprising the enemy. The 319^th Infantry, of the 80^th Division, takes Nocher, but fails to gain the high ground west of Masseler.

In the XX Corps area, the 94^th Division loses Butzdorf, during a determined enemy counterattack, but holds at Tettingen.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, enemy infiltration in the Bitche salient, northeast of Reipertsweiler, isolates the 3^rd Battalion, of the 157^th Infantry (45^th Division). Attempts to relieve the battalion are ineffective. The Germans are increasingly active, south of Hatten, and overrun Task Force Linden’s positions in Sessenheim and Bois de Sessenheim. The 12^th Armored Division continues a losing battle against the bridgehead, which the enemy has reinforced. Combat Command A relinquishes its hold on Herrlisheim, and an attack to relieve elements of Combat Command A, trapped in the town, fails.

Eastern Europe

In Hungary, the Second Ukrainian Front clears that part of Budapest east of the Danube.

Soviet armies in Poland are rapidly approaching the German Silesia region.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force medium bombers pound targets on the Brenner line, including a temporary bridge between San Michele all'Adige and Ora, and an overhanging cliff over the railroad at San Ambrogio di Valpolicella.

China Theater

In China, 29 B-24s and 25 P-40s, from the 14^th Air Force, pound shipping and railroad targets at Hong Kong. In other action, seven B-25s bomb Ishan and Chinchengchiang, four other B-25s and 12 P-40s hit shipping in the Puchi area, four more B-25s bomb the town of Wanting, and two hit troop compounds at Chaling. Meanwhile, 11 B-25s and 12 fighter-bombers attack Phu Lang Thuong, French Indochina. A force of about 140 P-51s, P-40s, and P-38s, on armed reconnaissance over southern China, from the Burma boundary to Hong Kong, attack a huge variety of targets of opportunity.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends a group of 23 P-47s and P-38s to hit the Anisakan and Hsumhsai Airfields. 12 B-25s bomb the airfield at Nawnghkio, while over 20 P-47s support ground forces at Si-U and near Yenya-u and Mahlainggon. 529 transport sorties are flown to forward areas.

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area of Burma, the US 5332^nd Brigade gains a hold on the Loi-kang ridge, commanding the Burma Road, and gets artillery into position to fire on the road.

The Japanese move reinforcements to the Namhpakka area.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-25s blast the Cotabato area, on Mindanao Island, while B-24s bomb targets in the Miti area, of Halmahera Island. On Luzon Island, B-25s hit troop concentrations at Bamban, A-20s hit warehouses and highway traffic north of Bataan, and P-38s strafe parked aircraft at Tuguegarao and vehicles at Enrile and Butigui and Calarian, on Mindanao.

The US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 1^st Infantry, of the 6^th Division, takes Urdaneta, while the 20^th Infantry continues to probe into the Cabaruan Hills, without making contact with the main enemy forces. The 161^st Infantry, of the 25^th Division, clears Binalonan. From Palacpalac, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 769^th Infantry (43^rd Division), attacks through Bobonan, to the road junction near Sison, and maintains a roadblock there under strong enemy pressure. The 758^th and 63^rd Regiments begin an attack on the ridge called Blue Ridge, near Amlang. Although progress is slow, the assault regiments gain contact with each other.

In the Camotes Islands, from Ponson Island, the 7^th Division Task Force, consisting of the 3^rd Battalion, of the 184^th Infantry, reinforced, moves by sea to Poro Island and establishes a beachhead.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 19 B-24s, based on Saipan Island, to bomb targets on Chichi Jima and Haha Jima. Meanwhile, 10 B-24s, from Guam Island, pound an airfield on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, three B-24s, from the 7^th Air Force, continue snooper strikes against Iwo Jima airfields.

1,137 · January 19, 2015

Friday, January 19, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s XXII Corps area, the Germans are cleared from Stevensweerd, in the 7^th Armoured Division sector. The 52^nd Division overruns Isenbruch, Breberen, Saeffelen, and Broichhoven, as elements cross the Dutch border, taking Koningsbosch, west of Bocket, and making contact with the 7^th Armoured Division, near that village.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 3^rd Armored Division gains its final objectives, clearing Brisy, Rettigny, Renglez, and the rest of the zone, as far south as the Ourthe River. The 83^rd Division cleans out the woods in its zone and sends elements into Bovigny and Courtil.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 75^th Division is dislodging the enemy from Grand Bois and withstands pressure near Burtonville. The 30^th Division, against light resistance, captures Recht, reduces a roadblock at the junction of the Recht–Born and Malmédy–St. Vith roads, continues to clear woods south of Recht–Born road, and takes the high ground in Bois d’Emmels, southeast of Poteau.

In the V Corps area, the 1^st Division opens a passage through which the 7^th Armored Division will drive on St. Vith. Against greatly decreased resistance, the 1^st Division clears Iveldingen, Eibertingen, Montenau, and Schoppen.

In the US Third Army’s XII Corps area, the 4^th Division gains the heights overlooking the Our River, northeast of Bettendorf. In conjunction with the 5^th Division, the 4^th Division clears Bettendorf, but is unable to reduce a strongpoint across the Sauer River, from Reisdorf. The 5^th Division takes the rest of Diekirch and occupies Bastendorf.

In the XX Corps area, the 302^nd Infantry, of the 94^th Division, is clearing bypassed fortifications, to allow passage of Combat Command A, of the 8^th Armored Division.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 157^th Infantry, of the 45^th Division, receives intensified fire and contains counterattacks from the Bitche salient. Efforts to relieve the encircled 3^rd Battalion continue. Though the enemy is less aggressive in the Rittershoffen–Hatten area, the 74^th Armored Division is unable to improve its positions. The Germans mount strong attacks south of Hatten. To avert the threat of a breakthrough to Haguenau, the 74^th Armored Division’s 25^th Tank Battalion moves to Hochfelden. The 79^th Division attacks toward Sessenheim, with attached units of the 103^rd Division, which enter the town, but are driven out. The Germans surround the 2^nd Battalion, of the 374^th Infantry, in Drusenheim, but elements escape. The 12^th Armored Division withdraws for relief and contains an enemy attack, at the line of relief.

Eastern Europe

Moscow confirms German reports of a new Soviet offensive against East Prussia, where the Third White Russian Front now holds Schlossberg (Pillkalen).

Continuing rapidly across Poland, the First White Russian Front takes Lodz. The First Ukrainian Front seizes Tarnow and Cracow. The Fourth Ukrainian Front has reached Gorlice, south of Tarnow.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force dispatches a force of over 400 B-17s and B-24s to attack north and south marshalling yards, a railroad bridge, and a highway bridge at Brod, Yugoslavia. 46 P-38s bomb the south railroad bridge at Doboj and 59 P-51s sweep from Zagreb to Gyor, Hungary.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force sends nine B-25s to bomb troops and stores at Na-mon and near Hsenwi, Burma. 28 fighter-bombers support ground forces, while four others bomb a causeway in the lake at Mogok. Transports complete over 500 sorties to forward areas.

In the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia (ALFSEA) XV Corps area, Kantha, on the Myebon Peninsula, falls to the 25^th Indian Division.

In the Northern Combat Area Command (NCAC) area, the 114^th Regiment of the Chinese 38^th Division, cuts the Namhkam–Namhpakka trail. The US 5332^nd Brigade craters the Burma Road and continues to clear the heights overlooking it.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s and B-25s bomb the La Carlota and Bacolod airfields, on Negros Island. On Luzon Island, A-20s attack shipping, at Salomague and Callaguip, and B-25s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers attack throughout Luzon, hitting airfields, vehicles, storage areas, highways, and a variety of other targets.

On Luzon, in the US Sixth Army area, XIV Corps begins an advance toward Clark Field, gaining a line from Camiling to Paniqui to Anao, 24 hours ahead of schedule.

In the I Corps area, the 103^rd Infantry begins a two-battalion assault on Hill 600, east of the Pozorrubio road.

In the Camotes Islands, the 7^th Division Task Force, on Poro, is clearing the island and making a few contacts with the enemy.

On Mindoro, 21^st Infantry troops overcome enemy opposition along Gusay Creek.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends seven B-24s, from Saipan Island, to bomb harbor installations at Chichi Jima Island, while nine others, from Guam Island, hit airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 20 – 80 B-29s are dispatched to hit the Kawasaki aircraft plant at Akashi, Japan.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends three B-24s, on individual snooper strikes from the Mariana Islands to bomb Iwo Jima.

1,137 · January 20, 2015

Saturday, January 20, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

Moscow

The Provisional National Government of Hungary signs an armistice agreement, in Moscow, with Great Britain, the United States, and the USSR.

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 801 – 772 bombers and 455 fighters are dispatched to hit synthetic oil plants at Sterkrade and rail targets and bridges in western Germany.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s XII Corps area, the 52^nd Division seizes Bocket and Waldfeucht, in Germany, and Echterbosch, in Holland. The 43^rd Division attacks on the right flank of XII Corps, in Germany, taking Langfroich and relieving elements of the 52^nd Division, in Breberen.

In the US First Army’s XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 30^th Division mops up to the south edge of Bois de Born and Bois d’Emmels, the last ridge before St. Vith. The 7^th Armored Division attacks south, toward St. Vith, through the Ondenval defile, with Deidenberg and Born as immediate objectives.

In the US Third Army’s III Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 6^th Armored Division captures Moinet and Hill 510, to the east. North of Oberwampach, a battalion of the 359^th Infantry captures Chifontaine and Allerborn. The 328^th Infantry, of the 26^th Division, establishes a bridgehead across the Wiltz River, two miles south of Oberwampach.

In the XII Corps area, the 4^th Division, committing Regimental Combat Team 12 on the left of Regimental Combat Team 8, continues their attack, north of the Sauer River. They clear the angle formed by junction of Sauer and Our rivers, bypassing Longsdorf, to gain positions just north and occupying Tandel. The 5^th Division takes Kippenhof, Brandenburg, and the commanding ground near Brandenburg.

In the XX Corps area, the 302^nd Infantry clears fortifications and repels counterattacks. The 95^th Division decisively defeats counterattacks in the Saarlautern bridgehead.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the 45^th Division makes an unsuccessful attempt to reach the encircled 3^rd Battalion, of the 157^th Infantry, elements of which infiltrate to the main body. Some troops of the 2^nd Battalion, of the 314^th Infantry, escape from Drusenheim, but the rest of the battalion is reported missing in action. During the night, VI Corps starts an orderly withdrawal to new defensive positions along the Rothbach Rau–Moder River line.

The French 1^st Army opens an offensive to eliminate the Colmar Pocket, attacking with I Corps from the south.

Eastern Europe

East Prussia is being enveloped by the Third and Second White Russian Fronts.

In the Carpathians, the Fourth Ukrainian Front takes Nowy Sacz, in Poland, and Bardejov, Presov, and Kosice (Kassa), in Czechoslovakia. Hard fighting is reported in the Szekesfehervar region, of Hungary, southwest of Budapest, as the Germans attempt to break through to the Danube.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends a force of 345 B-17s and B-24s to attack the north and south main marshalling yards and station sidings at Linz, Austria, the marshalling yards at Salzburg, Austria, and Rosenheim, Germany, and oil storage at Regensburg, Germany.

China Theater

A force of over 200 P-40s, P-51s, and P-38s, on armed reconnaissance over vast southern China and northern French Indochina areas, attack bridges, town areas, rail, road and river traffic, and other targets of opportunity at numerous points.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

482 transport sorties are flown to advanced bases and battle sectors.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound the Fabrica Airfield, on Negros Island, and bomb an underground storage area at Bamban, on Luzon Island. On Luzon, A-20s and B-25s hit railroads and trains near the Bicol River and between Calauag and Legaspi, while other A-20s and fighter-bombers hit the Aparri-Laoag and Tubang airfields, artillery positions west of Bong Bong and destroy a railroad bridge at Aloneros.

On Mindoro, the bulk of the 2^nd Battalion, of the 19^th Infantry, moves to Bulalacao, to destroy the enemy in that region, in patrol actions.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 12 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb airfields on Iwo Jima Island. Five others, from Saipan Island, hit the town of Okimura, on Chichi Jima Island.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force dispatches 10 B-24s, from Guam Island, to fly separate snooper strikes against Iwo Jima airfields.

North Pacific Area

Four B-24s, from the 11^th Air Force, bomb the Kataoka area, on Shimushu Island, in the Kurile Islands.

1,137 · January 21, 2015

Sunday, January 21, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 803 – 912 bombers and 523 fighters are dispatched to hit industrial and rail targets in central Germany.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force sends a group of 166 A-26s, A-20s, and B-26s to hit a rail junction and bridge at Euskirchen and a marshalling yard and defended positions at Mayen.

In the British Second Army’s XII Corps area, the 52^nd Division clears the villages of Hontem and Selsent, then moves into Braunsrath, without opposition.

In the US First Army’s XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 75^th Division clears the rest of Grand Bois. The 7^th Armored Division overcomes house-to-house opposition in Born.

In the V Corps area, the 1^st Division meets stiff opposition, as it attempts to improve positions northeast of Schoppen.

In the US Third Army area, III Corps’ advance to northeast gains momentum. The 6^th Armored Division clears Crendal, Troine, Baraques de Troine, Lullange, Hoffelt, and Hachiville. The 90^th Division’s 358^th Infantry takes Derenbach, Hill 480, and Boevange-les-Clervaux. The 359^th Infantry secures Hill 520, Hamiville, and Wincrange. Some 26^th Division units, across the Wiltz River, in the vicinity of Winseler, clear Noertrange and Bruhl. Others, in conjunction with the 6^th Cavalry Group, enter Wiltz and mop up pockets of resistance.

In the XII Corps area, the 4^th Division captures Longsdorf, but is unable to take Fuhren. The 5^th Division secures Landscheid and Lipperscheid. Renewing their offensive, the 80^th Division’s 318^th Infantry takes Bourscheid and Welscheid, and the woods between these and the Sauer River. The 317^th Infantry is unable to get units across the river, to the north of Bourscheid, but takes Kehmen.

In the XX Corps area, the 94^th Division halts their attack on Orscholz, because of heavy casualties to the 1^st Battalion, of the 301^st Infantry. The 302^nd Infantry holds Tettingen and Nennig against a strong counterattack.

Eastern Europe

Fanning out from Tilsit, in northeastern East Prussia, the Third White Russian Front reaches Kurisch Sound, on the right, and takes Gumbinnen, on the left.

The Second White Russian Front presses steadily north, toward East Prussia, on wide front and takes the East Prussian town of Tannenberg.

The First White Russian Front crosses into Silesia, Germany, in the region west of Czestochowa, and takes several Silesian towns.

Mediterranean Theater

The 15^th Air Force sends 170 B-17s to bomb the Lobau and Schweehat oil refineries at Vienna, Austria. A group of 131 P-51 s and P-38s provide support.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s hit bridges at Rovereto and Lavis, destroy a bridge at Pontetidone, and blast a railroad fill, at San Michele all' Adige, and a supply dump, at Cremona. Fighters and fighter-bombers concentrate on communications in the same area, destroying one bridge, inflicting 36 rail cuts, hitting fuel and ammunition dumps, and destroying and damaging many vehicles and much railroad rolling stock, mostly in the Milan area.

China Theater ‘

The 14^th Air Force sends 30 B-24s to bomb the Hong Kong area, while 12 P-51s hit the Nanking Airfield, destroying 11 enemy aircraft, and targets of opportunity along the Yangtze River to Hankow.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 10 B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb the Heho Airfield, while 12 P-38s bomb the bridge area at Nampawng, and 26 P-47s support ground forces near Twinnge, Mahlainggon, and Konkha, along the Irrawaddy River, and in the Si-U sector. A group of over 50 P-38s and P-47s hit troop concentrations, supplies, and targets of opportunity at Me-han, Mogok, Hsenwi, Na-makhkaw, Kutkai, Kunhkan, and Man On. Nearly 500 transports sorties are flown to forward areas.

In the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia (ALFSEA) XV Corps area, a brigade of the Indian 26^th Division, after a coordinated air and naval bombardment, lands on the north coast of Ramree Island and captures Kyaukpyu. The Indian 25^th Division now holds all of the Myebon Peninsula.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb Marikina Airfield and hit the barracks and coastal defense guns, at Calabasan.

On Luzon, in the US Sixth Army area, XIV Corps drives beyond the day’s objective, a line from Tarlac to Victoria, and is ordered to continue toward Clark Field, although its eastern flank is exposed for over 20 miles. The 160^th Infantry, of the 40^th Division, takes Tarlac.

In the I Corps area, the 103^rd Infantry, of the 43^rd Division, continuing their assault on Hill 600, gains the military crest. The 158^th and 63^rd Regiments finish clearing Blue Ridge, near Amlang.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 12 B-24s, based on Guam Island, to bomb airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night the 7^th Air Force sends eight B-24s, flying separate snooper strikes from Saipan Island, to bomb the airfields on Iwo Jima.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 21 – 33 B-29s, flying out of the Mariana Islands, bomb the Moen Airfield, in Truk Atoll.

Task Force 38 makes powerful air attacks on shipping and airfields at Formosa, Sakishima Gunto, Okinawa, and the Pescadores. About 10 oilers and freighters are sunk and other vessels are damaged. At the airfields some 100 grounded planes are destroyed. The Japanese counter with determined attacks on the warships, severely damaging the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga.

1,137 · January 22, 2015

Monday, January 22, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 805 – 206 B-17s and 258 fighters are dispatched to make visual attacks on the Holten synthetic oil plant at Sterkrade.

During the night, the RAF dispatches 286 Lancasters and 16 Mosquitos to a benzol plant in Duisburg, with the Thyssen steelworks also being hit. 107 Halifaxes, 29 Lancasters, and 16 Mosquitos attack Gelsenkirchen.

European Theater, Western Europe

The 9^th Air Force dispatches a force of 304 B-26s, A-26s, and A-20s to bomb a marshalling yard, railhead, and road and rail bridges in Germany, with the aim of obstructing troop movement.

In the British Second Army’s XII Corps area, the 7^th Armored Division fights indecisively near Montfort. The 52^nd Division takes Laffeld and Obspringen. Waldenrath falls to the 43^rd Division.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 84^th Division, and attached elements of the 3^rd Armored Division, seize Gouvy and Beho.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 75^th Division takes Commanster and the woods to the northeast. The 30^th Division secures Hinderhausen, Sart-lez-St. Vith, Ober Emmels, and Nieder Emmels. The 7^th Armored Division’s Combat Command A, assisted by a task force of Combat Command B, clears Hunningen. A reconnaissance party from the 38^th Armored Infantry Battalion is prevented, by a roadblock, from entering St. Vith.

In the US Third Army’s VIII Corps area, units of Combat Command A, of the 11^th Armored Division, enter Bois de Rouvroy and cross the Luxembourg border, without encountering the enemy.

In the III Corps area, the 26^th Division and the 6^th Cavalry Group finish clearing Wiltz and secure Eschweiler, Knaphoscheid, and Kleinhoscheid.

In the XII Corps area, the 4^th Division gains ground along the west bank of the Our River and takes Walsdorf, but is still unable to clear Fuhren. The 5^th Division continues north, with the 10^th Infantry on right and the 11^th Infantry on left, taking Gralingen and the high ground east of Nachtmanderscheid. Elements of the 80^th Division move into the Wiltz area, using routes cleared by the 6^th Cavalry Group.

In the XX Corps area, the enemy regains about half of Nennig, from the 302^nd Infantry, of the 94^th Division.

In the US Seventh Army area, because of enemy concentrations, the outpost line of the 103^rd Division is withdrawn from Offwiller, and outposts of the 79^th Division pull back to the Moder River line.

In the French 1^st Army area, II Corps begins a southward drive on Colmar. The US 3^rd Division leads off, attacking at 2100 hours, southeast across the Fecht River, at Guemar.

Eastern Europe

In East Prussia, the Third White Russian Front takes Insterburg. The Second White Russian Front seizes Allenstein and Deutsch-Eylau.

In Poland, the First White Russian Front captures Inowroclaw, threatening Bromberg, and Gniezo, on the road to Posen. The First Ukrainian Front, fighting astride the Polish-Silesian border, seizes the Silesian towns of Konstadt and Gross Strehlitz.

Mediterranean Theater, Italian Campaign

12^th Air Force B-25s score damaging hits at Rovereto, San Michele all' Adige and on the Dogna bridge, and attack the Chiari and Crema bridges with fair results.

During the night, 12^th Air Force A-20s bomb lights, roads, and river crossings at over 50 locations in the Po River Valley.

China Theater

For the last three days, January 19 to January 22, the Japanese have occupied key bridges and tunnels on the Canton–Hankow railroad.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

The 10^th Air Force dispatches 46 P-47s to support ground forces. Transports fly 449 sorties to advanced bases and frontline areas.

In the Allied Land Forces Southeast Asia (ALFSEA) XV Corps area, the 3^rd Commando Brigade lands at Kangaw, on the Arakan front, after a preparatory bombardment.

In the British Fourteenth Army’s XXXIII Corps area, the Indian 20^th Division takes Monywa, the enemy’s last port on the Chindwin River, which has been defended vigorously for several days, and Myinmu, on the Irrawaddy River.

In the IV Corps area, the Indian 7^th Division, which has replaced the East African 28^th Brigade, in line, takes Tilin.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s, escorted by P-38s, bomb the Heito Airfield, in the first major 5^th Air Force strike on Formosa. On Luzon Island, other B-24s bomb barracks in the Cabaruan Hills, gun positions across Manila Bay, and hit Fabrica Airfield.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force sends 20 B-24s, from Guam Island, to bomb airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends eight more B-24s, flying individual strikes from Guam, to bomb the airfields on Iwo Jim, which were hit during the day.

1,137 · January 23, 2015

Tuesday, January 23, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater

8^th Air Force Mission 807 – 209 B-17s, escorted by 79 P-51s, are dispatched to hit the marshalling yard at Neuss, Germany.

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s XII Corps area, the 7^th Armoured Division is still held up by strong opposition near Montfort. The 52^nd Division has little difficulty in clearing the Aphove area and begins an assault on Heinsberg. The 43^rd Division takes Straeten and Scheifendahl with ease.

In the US First Army’s VII Corps area, the 84^th Division seizes Ourthe and is clearing the commanding ground between there and Beho.

In the XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, St. Vith falls to the 7^th Armored Division. Southwest of St. Vith, the 75^th Division takes Maldingen and Braunlauf, while the 30^th Division secures Weisten, Crombach, and Neundorf.

In the US Third Army’s III Corps area, Combat Command A, of the 6^th Armored Division, takes Biwisch and Trois Vierges. Combat Team Miltonberger, consisting of Regimental Combat Team 134, of the 35^th Division, passing through Combat Command B, occupies Basbellain and the heights to southeast. The 359^th Infantry, of the 90^th Division, clears the Bischent woods. The 357^th Infantry attacks across the Clerf River, seizing the hills on either side of a draw west of Hupperdange. The 1^st Battalion, of the 357^th Infantry, captures Binsfeld. The 28^th Cavalry Squadron clears Eselborn and makes contact with the enemy, at Clerf and Drauffelt. During the nigth, elements of Task Force Fickett take Mecher and attempt to take Clerf.

In the XII Corps area, Fuhren falls to the 4^th Division. 5^th Division elements reach the vicinity of Nachtmanderscheid and Hoscheid, but are unable to secure either of these. On the 80^th Division front, the 317^th Infantry, attacking northeast toward the Clerf River, reaches the high ground just west of Wilwerwiltz and Enscherange. The 319^th Infantry crosses the Wiltz River, at Merkols and Kautenbach, and clears Merkols. The 346^th Infantry, of the 87^th Division, occupies Wasserbillig, at the confluence of the Sauer River and the Moselle River.

In the XX Corps area, the Germans, mounting strong tank-infantry counterattacks against the 94^th Division, regain Berg. The 302^nd Infantry recaptures Nennig.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the enemy forces the left flank of the 103^rd Division back, past Rothbach.

In the French 1^st Army’s II Corps area, the 1^st Moroccan Division crosses the Ill River, between Illhaeusern and Illwald, to the north of the US crossing site.

Eastern Europe

In northeast East Prussia, the Third White Russian Front captures Wehlau, between Insterburg and Koenigsberg. The Second White Russian Front captures Ortelsburg and progresses toward Elbing.

In northern Poland, the Second White Russian Front seizes Brodnica and Lipno. The Polish cities of Bromberg and Kalisz fall to the First White Russian Front.

The First Ukrainian Front reaches the Oder River line, near Breslau, in the Silesia region, on a 37 mile front.

Germans fighting toward the Danube, in Hungary, force the Russians from Szekesfehervar.

The Second Ukrainian Front has gone on the offensive, north of Miskolc, and, in conjunction with the Fourth Rumanian Army, takes a number of Czechoslovakian towns and communities.

China Theater

The 14^th Air Force dispatches a group of 40 P-51s and P-40s on armed reconnaissance to attack targets of opportunity. They focus mainly on river, road, and rail traffic, at several locations in both southern China and in the northern China plain.

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 12 B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb airfields at Aungban and Hsumhsai, while 34 P-47s support ground. A group of 55 P-47s and P-38s hit troop concentrations, storage areas and vehicles. Transports fly 542 sorties, carrying men and supplies to advanced bases and drop supplies to troops in frontline areas.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s bomb Baguio and, along with A-20s, hit Corregidor Island, in Manila Bay. Elsewhere, B-24s hit the Silay Airfield, on Negros Island.

In the US Sixth Army’s XIV Corps area, the 160^th Infantry, of the 40^th Division, runs into opposition at Bamban, but secures the town, airfield, and a crossing site over the Bamban River.

In the I Corps area, the 2^nd Battalion, of the 169^th Infantry (43^rd Division), continues to meet strong resistance on Hill 355.

In the Camotes Islands, the 7^th Division Task Force, clearing Poro Island, runs into opposition on Hill 854.

Central Pacific Area

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 12 B-24s, from Saipan Island, to bomb Iwo Jima Island airfields.

During the night, the 7^th Air Force sends 10 B-24s, from Saipan, to strike Iwo Jima, singly at about 45 minute intervals.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 22 – 73 B-29s are dispatched to bomb the Mitsubishi engine plant at Nagoya. Two B-29s and crews are lost.

1,137 · January 24, 2015

Wednesday, January 24, 1945

** Selected Highlights **

European Theater, Western Europe

In the British Second Army’s XII Corps area, the 7^th Armoured Division overruns Weerd, Aandenberg, and Montfort. The 52^nd Division completes the capture of Heinsberg, and occupies Haaren, without opposition. The 43^rd Division clears Schleiden and Uetterath.

In the US First Army’s XVIII Corps (Airborne) area, the 75^th Division takes Aldringen, concluding its Salm River drive.

In the V Corps area, the 16^th Infantry clears the Bambusch woods, while the 18^th Infantry captures Moderscheid, and the 26^th Infantry takes the Buellingen–Butgenbach–St Vith road junction, at the north edge of the Richelsbusch.

In the US Third Army area, as the direction of III Corps’ attack changes from northeast to east, Combat Command A, of the 6^th Armored Division, secures the area within the Trois Vierges– Wilwerdange–Binsfeld triangle and takes Holler and Breidfeld. The 90^th Division repels a predawn attack, northeast of Binsfeld. Supporting armor crosses the river, at Trois Vierges, and reaches Binsfeld. The 359^th Infantry attacks across the river to an area north of Urspelt. The 26^th Division crosses the river, southeast of Weicherdange, and organizes on the high ground.

In the XII Corps area, the 5^th Division clears the village northwest of Vianden, and also clears Nachtmanderscheid, and Hoscheid. The 80^th Division completes the capture of Kautenbach and takes Alscheid and Enscherange.

In the US Seventh Army’s VI Corps area, the enemy forces the 45^th Division to abandon its outpoast at Saegmuhl. The 103^rd Division repels German attempts to penetrate the main line of resistance at Bischoltz and Muhlhausen, but is forced to readjust its outpost line. In the 79^th Division sector, during the night, the Germans attack across the Moder River, between Neubourg and Schweighausen, penetrating the 222^nd Infantry’s main line of resistance (MLR), and seizes the western portion of Schweighausen.

In the French 1^st Army’s II Corps area, French and US troops fight to expand the Ill River bridgehead. The French are stopped by enemy tanks concealed in woods near Elsenheim. The 15^th Infantry attacks from Maison Rouge and reaches the edge of the woods near Riedwihr.

Eastern Europe
In German Silesia, the First Ukrainian Front overruns the industrial centers of Oppeln, on the Oder River, and Gleiwitz. North of Breslau, elements clear Trachenberg and Rawicz, across Polish border.

China Theater

In China, 12 P-51s, from the 14^th Air Force, on armed reconnaissance, attack railroad targets.

The Salween campaign comes to an end as General Wei’s Chinese Expeditionary Force halts to await relief by the Chinese Army in India (CAI).

India – Burma Theater (Burma)

In Burma, 12 B-25s, from the 10^th Air Force, bomb the Hsumhsai Airfield, while 17 P-47s support ground forces at Padin, near Namhkam, and along the Irrawaddy River. Transports again fly over 500 sorties to forward areas.

Southwest Pacific Area (Battle of Luzon)

On Luzon Island, Far East Air Force (FEAF) B-24s pound Corregidor Island, Cavite, the Canacao peninsula seaplane base, and Grande Island, at the mouth of Subic Bay.

In the US Sixth Army’s I Corps area, the 161^st Infantry, of the 25^th Division, begins an assault on San Manuel and, against firm opposition, gains a toehold within the barrio. Elements of the 158^th Infantry begin an assault on the ridge northwest of Cataguintingan, where the enemy is firmly entrenched.

Central Pacific Area

Iwo Jima is the target for a coordinated air-naval bombardment. The Naval bombardment, by warships of Task Group 94.9, is curtailed sharply by deteriorating weather conditions. No enemy interception is met over the target.

The 7^th Air Force dispatches 33 B-24s, from Guam and Saipan Islands, to pound Iwo Jima Island, during four raids.

20th Air Force (XXI Bomber Command) Mission 23 – 28 B-29s are dispatched to hit two airfields on Iwo Jima Island.

During the night, six B-24s, from the 7^th Air Force, act as airborne spotters for a naval bombardment of Iwo Jima, while 10 B-24s maintain harassment strikes against the island's airfields.

Alaska Theater

In the Aleutian Islands, six fighters, from the 11^th Air Force, take off after radar reports an unidentified target, southeast of Attu Island. They spot a balloon which they shoot down with tracers.

WWII - 70 Years Ago

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