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HISTORICAL RECORD - April 1944




HEADQUARTERS 721ST BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (H)

450TH BOMBARDMENT GROUP (H)

APO  520  U. S. ARMY

 

10 May 1944

 

SUBJECT:  Historical Records.

TO: Commanding General, Fifteenth Air Force, Attention: Historian (through channels).

 

            1. Unit history of the 721st Bombardment Squadron (h) for the period 1 April 1944 to 1 May 1944.

 

                        a. The present designation of the unit is 721st Bombardment Squadron (H), 450th Bombardment Group (H), 47th Wing.

 

                        b. Changes in organization.

                                    (1) None

                                    (2) None

                                    (3) None

                                    (4) None

 

                        c. Strength, commissioned and enlisted.

 

                                    (1) Month of April

                                                                                    Enlisted Men              Officers

                                                (a) at beginning         395                             89

                                                (b) net increase                                                                                                                                                         (c) net decrease                                                                                                                                                        (d) at end                    395                             89

 

                        d. Station – Army Air Base, Manduria, Italy.

 

                        e. Movements – None.

 

                        f. Campaigns – None.

 

                        g. Operations – The Squadron area has completely changed since the day of arrival at this base. Instead of a muddy area with pup tents scattered around, tents for the mess hall, Squadron Headquarters, and Personnel Supply we now have a well organized Squadron Area with both pyramidal tents and stone houses lined up on three (3) company streets. Both the officers and the enlisted men have neat, well equipped mess halls. Daily inspections are held and every Saturday morning the Squadron Commander inspects the entire area. The Day Room is well under construction and when completed will be the largest on the base.

 

                        As is evidenced by the target for the missions flown this month the 450th Bombardment Group (H) is no longer flying "milks runs" but is on the threshold of a forthcoming victory alongside of its sister units of the Mediterranean Strategic Air Force which is helping to pound Germany into submission.

 

                        Movies were shown at the theater in Oria three (3) times a week by the Group Special Service. The better movies were: "These Heavenly Bodies" starring Hedy La Mar, "No Time For Love" with Claudette Colbert, "Cabin In The Sky" with Ethel Waters, "Girl Crazy" starring Mickey Rooney, "What A Woman!" with Rosalind Russell as the star, James Cagney in "Johnny Come Lately", "Action In The North Atlantic" with Humphrey Bogart, and "Lady Takes A Chance" with Jean Arthur. At all performances large crowds witnessed these movies. An Italian stage show was presented 21 April at the afternoon and evening performance of the movie "Dangerous Blonde". The acts met with the approval of the men who witnessed the show. Although not on the same standard as the American shows they were different!

 

                        Weekly News Presentations were given by Captain Charles S. Bowman and Lieutenant Robert S. Ogozalek in the S-2 War Room. As is evidenced by the large crowds attending these lectures both officers and enlisted men are interested in this weekly summary of the latest war news. Photos of the latest bombings made by this Group are shown by Lieutenant Borden S. Chronister. On 6 April 1944 Air medals were given to members of the combat crews who had completed five (5) missions and who had not received them at the presentation made in March. Special Easter Sunday services were conducted by the Chaplain, Captain Paul M. Stevens. An outdoor service was held with an unusually large attendance. The newly organized choir made their first appearance. Communion was held for all men who wished to partake of it. Cameramen not only from the Group but also from other organizations near here were busy during the entire service taking pictures. On 17 April 1944 Major Doyle J. Clark, the Squadron Executive Officer called a meeting to inform the men that the area was not in good shape and told them to clean the areas around their tents immediately after the meeting adjourned. On this day a volley ball court was completed in the Squadron area. Group Boxing Matches were inaugurated on the evening of 23 April 1944. The first night's bouts were witnessed by a large attendance and met with the approval of all the men. The fights have become a weekly feature and are held every Sunday evening. During the afternoon of 27 April 1944 representatives from this Squadron attended a meeting held by 47th Wing in the S-2 War Room. Colonel Kyle was the speaker. Following are the officers who were promoted this month: Second Lieutenants Stanly I. Gottlieb, Leonard (NMI) Robbins, Maynard I. Wayne and Robert H. Leebody were appointed First Lieutenant effective 9 April 1944. Second Lieutenants Theodore W. Schunk and Robert S. Ogozalek were appointed First Lieutenant effective 12 April 1944.

 

                        A catastrophe occurred sometime late in the afternoon of 18 April 1944. First Lieutenant Thomas A. Scott, accompanied by Second Lieutenant Francis R. Huisking, Second Lieutenant Joseph J. Basamania, and Staff Sergeant Morris T. Risko, went to Foggia to bring back their ship, "Paper Doll", which had been left there a number of days before coming back from a mission. On the return trip, the plane crashed, killing all occupants. The cause of the crash has not been determined. The funeral services for these men were held the following afternoon. They were given a full military funeral and large numbers of the Squadron attended to pay their last respects.

 

                        (1) Number of missions:  17,  Sorties  160.

 

                        (2) The targets of the important missions flown this month were located in Austria, Hungary, Roumania, Bulgaria, Southern France and Northern Italy. Marshalling yards, aircraft factories, airdromes and submarine facilities were the objectives.

 

                        (3) Following is a description of the important missions:

 

                        2 April 1944. Ten (10) B-24's took off in the Group formation at 0730 hours to bomb the Daimler-Puch Factory, Steyr, Austria. Two (2) retuned early. Seven (7) dropped twenty-one (21) tons of 500# (.10-.01) G.P. bombs on the target at 1234 hours. One, piloted by Second Lieutenant Earl G. Anderson, brought back his entire load three (3) tons and the other early return, First Lieutenant Leroy D. Tate salvoed his bomb load. First Lieutenant Claude S. McIver and crew landed at the Island of Vis. As our formation approached the target, it was found to be entirely covered with heavy smoke and bombs were dropped as close to the aiming point as possible under the circumstances. It is believed that good coverage resulted. Visually, it was impossible to distinguish the exact results obtained by our Group. Photo coverage showed the target area so smoke concealed that damage assessment could not be made. There were no crew injuries and all planes with exception of Lieutenant McIver's returned safely to the base.

 

                        3 April 1944. The target was the marshalling yards at Budapest, Hungary. The number of our planes participating were ten (10), leaving at 0630 hours to bomb the south half of the main marshalling yards. There were no early returns. They dropped thirty (30) tons of 500# (.10-.025) G.P. bombs on the target at 1133 hours. As the target was approached it was seen that smoke screens had been started and that the target area was 6/10 obscured. The Northeast end of the marshalling yards was still visible and the bombardiers were able to use it for target identification purposes. Visual assessment of the damage was virtually impossible as the smoke screen thickened but crew members were almost unanimous in declaring the target well hit. The greatest concentration of bursts appeared to be in the center of the yard, according to photo coverage. A great explosion and ire was caused by hits on adjacent oil refinery and a large fire was started in a factory building. All of our aircraft returned safely to the base but some did receive damage from flak. First Lieutenant Edmund H. Wolcott's ship had flak holes all over, the gas and oil lines were cut and some electric instruments were knocked out. First Lieutenant Irving J. Weilert's plane was hit by flak in the nose turret, No. 1 engine cowling, in the waist, in the tip turret and the hydraulic line were shot out. There were holes all over the nose, cockpit, wings, bomb-bays, waist and tail in the plane piloted by First Lieutenant Merle W. Emch. ON the ship of Second Lieutenant John T. Devane the right bomb-bay doors were torn off the rollers, the nose turret was hit and the oxygen set afire. Sixty-three holes were counted in the plane and the left tire was blown out. On this raid the following men were wounded: First Lieutenant Edmund H. Wolcott suffered flak wounds in the legs; Second Lieutenant William J. Heiser suffered wounds in his left heel; Sergeant Thomas J. Isgrigg was wounded in the left leg; and, Staff Sergeant Wilbur D. Mangrum suffered slight flak wounds on the forehead.

 

                        On 4 April 1944 ten (10) B-24's took off in the Group formation at 1010 hours to bomb the Bucharest Marshalling Yards. One (1) returned early, First Lieutenant Merle W. Emch and crew due to mechanical failure and brought back the bomb load. Nine (9) dropped twenty-seven (27) tons of 500# G.P. (.10-.025) bombs on the target at 1406 hours. Attack was made on a direct course down the railroad tracks from the Northeast. Our aiming point was covered by a concentration of hits. Photo coverage showed large fires started among rolling stock and tank cars. There was a large explosion as bombs hit a large building inside the tracks near a choke point. Damage to our aircraft was as follows: The hydraulic line in the rear turret was shot out on First Lieutenant Howard L. Anderson's ship; and, the plane piloted by Major Wendall M. Van Sickle was hit in the waist by 20 m.m. cannon fragmentation. Staff Sergeant Ernest (NMI) Santoscoy a member of the crew on that ship received wounds on the head. This was the only crew member who suffered injuries. All planes returned safely to the base.

 

                        Another important mission was flown 5 April 1944. Nine (9) B-24's took off at 1146 hours to bomb the marshalling yards and adjacent industrial areas at Ploesti, Roumania. Two (2) returned early, Second Lieutenant John T. Devane and Second Lieutenant Lloyd R. Bishop, jettisoning their bomb load in the Adriatic Sea. Seven (7) dropped twenty-one (21) tons of 500# G.P. bombs ½ fused (.10-.025) and ½ fused (.10-.01) on the target at 1437 hours. All ships returned safely to the base. Just prior to the target it was observed that there was some obscurity due to smoke from posts but the haze was light and certain identification features could be seen. Photo coverage shows several direct hits on installation units, which started a large fire and caused a huge explosion. Another fire and explosion was caused by hits on four (4) large storage tanks and still another fire was started by directs on large buildings believed to be a tank car loading station and among the tank cars. There were several direct hits on the Southeast end of the Spur Marshalling yards among cars and installations with resultant fires. There were also hits on a railroad overpass and on the north choke point of the marshalling yards. There was one crew injury: T/Sgt Robert E. Monohan suffered minor head wounds. The B-24 piloted by Second Lieutenant Russell E. Boggs was hit by flak in the left wing, the nose turret plexi-glass was broken and also that of the top turret. There were seventy-two (72) holes in the ship and the NO. 1 engine had to be feathered on the plane piloted by First Lieutenant LeRoy D. Tate. All planes and crews returned safely to the base. One (1) enlisted man, Staff Sergeant Thomas R. Tornillo, bailed out over the target.

 

                        On 12 April 1944 nine (9) B-24's took off at 0811 hours to bomb the factory buildings of the Wiener Neustadt Aircraft Assembly Plant. One (1) First Lieutenant Thomas A. Scott returned early. Eight (8) dropped sixteen (16) tons of 100# (.10-Inst) G.P. bombs on the target at 1205 hours from 23,000 to 26,500'. The target area was heavily hit and a concentration of bombs was noted on railroad and highway overpass south of the target area. Photo coverage showed the heaviest concentration on the south two-thirds of the target area and extending across highway and railroad. The north half of the target area was smoke obscured when this Group reached the target and both visual and photo observation was impossible, however it is believed that this area was also well covered. Staff Sergeant J. R. (IO) Frank suffered a leg wound due to flak. Several hits by flak in the nose, right wing, nacelle on No. 3 Engine, the tail, left wing, the waist and the nose turret were suffered by Second Lieutenant Wade H. Williford's ship. Second Lieutenant Howard L. Anderson's ship was also hit by flak in the oil line, in the right vertical stabilizer and several other places. Other than these injuries and damages to the aircraft all other crews and ships returned safely to the base.

 

                        Ten (10) B-24's took off at 0900 hours, 13 April 1944, to bomb Vecses Airdrome, Budapest, Hungary. None returned early. Twelve (12) tons of 20# A and M # 41 bomb s were dropped on the target at 1234 hours from 20,000' – 22,000'. The greatest concentration of hits were to the right of the aiming point and in the south-east dispersal area. Some hits were seen in the East dispersal and in the hangar areas. Photo coverage showed seventy (70) dispersed aircraft consisting of fighters and bomber-transport aircraft of which thirty-five (35) were destroyed on the ground and five (5) were damaged. All planes returned to the base safely at 1510 hours. There were no injuries to any of the crew members.

 

                        On 15 April 1944 eleven (11) B-24's took off at 0818 hours to bomb Bucharest Marshalling Yards. Four (4) returned early; Second Lieutenant Claude T. McIver, First Lieutenant LeRoy D. Tate, First Lieutenant William A. Clarke and First Lieutenant Lloyd R. Bishop. Seven (7) dropped 17.50 tons of 500 # (.10 - .01) G.P. bombs on the target at 1210 hours. Bombing was done through solid overcast on Pathfinder ship. It is believed that hits were recorded on the Southwest corner of the city of Bucharest. Photo coverage showed a solid unbroken bank of clouds which effectively screened the target. Results are unknown. All planes returned safely to the base without damage. None of our crew members were injured.

 

                        On 17 April 1944 eleven (11) B-24's took off at 0916 hours to bomb the center of Sofia, Bulgaria by P.F.F. There were no early returns. Twenty-two (22) tons of 100# (.10 - .01) A and M 30 G.P. bombs were dropped on the target at 1228 hours from 20,500' – 21,500'. The bombing of this Group was done by Pathfinder which was to select the center of the city as the aiming point. Photo coverage showed approximately two hundred (200) bursts in the city beginning 2000' Southwest of the Cathedral and extending southward for 4000'. Bursts were noted in the industrial area between the Southeast of the marshalling yard and in the Cathedral extending 3500' Southeast. There were also one hundred thirty (130) hits on the marshalling yards and installations, eight (80) bursts on tracks and rolling stock which started fires and fifty (50) other bursts on the repair ship and large warehouse on the Southeast side of the marshalling yard. Sergeant Harold A. White suffered wounds in the right leg from shrapnel. This was the only crew injury. The ship piloted by First Lieutenant Lloyd R. Bishop, of which Sergeant White is a crew member, received minor flak holes in the tail, and the ship of First Lieutenant Leonard B. Scott also received small flak holes in the tail. All ships returned safely to the base.

 

                        Eleven (11) B-24's took off at 1000 hours, 23 April 1944, to bomb Schwechat Aircraft Factory. There were no early returns. Twenty-seven and one-half (27 ½) tons of 500# (.10 - .025) R.D.X. bombs were dropped on the target at 1445 hours from 22,000'. Crew members observed some hits around aiming point, along hangar line and among hangars. There were reports of bombs striking the roof of the building designated at the aiming point and bouncing off which would indicate a heavy reinforced concrete and steel construction. Photo coverage indicates approximately fifteen (15) bursts in workshop area between the main assembly shop and the highway running to Vienna. There were several direct hits on buildings, about twenty-five (25) bursts on the runway and some forty (40) hits 2000' – 4000' east of the field. There was considerable smoke over the target area which made additional assessment difficult. Two (2) of the ships received minor flak holes but other than that all ships returned safely to the base undamaged. There were no crew injuries suffered on this mission.

 

                        On 24 April 1944 nine (9) B-24's took off at 0824 hours to bomb Ploesti East Marshalling Yards. There were no early returns. Twenty-two and one half (22 ½) tons of 500# G.P. bombs (.10 - .025) were dropped at 1217 hours from 22,000' on the target area. Our aiming point and the south end of the town was completely covered by smoke screen. Most of our bomb hits were in the northeast portion of the city; in addition, specific strikes were observed on the east side of the Vega Oil Refinery, starting a huge fire; and on railroad tracks causing a fire among the rolling stock. Sergeant Donald A. Fring suffered injuries caused by flak. Some of the planes received minor flak holes but all returned safely to the base. 

 

                        The next important mission was flown 29 April 1944. Nine (9) B-24's took off at 0722-0808 hours to bomb Toulon Harbor, France. There were no early returns. Five (5) dropped twelve and one half (12 ½) tons of 1000# G.P. (.1 - .01) bomb on the target. First Lieutenant Harvey E. Helmberger dropped four (4) bombs on the target and jettisoned one (1) because of malfunction of the bomb release mechanism caused by flak. Second Lieutenant Irving J. Weilert dropped three (3) bombs on the target and jettisoned two (2) in the Mediterranean Sea. The two bombs jettisoned hung in the racks and the armament gunner levered them out with a screw driver. Second Lieutenant Claude T. McIver released two (2) bombs by sight, salvoed two (2) and one which hung was released manually in the Mediterranean Sea. Second Lieutenant Russell E. Boggs had to jettison his entire bomb load in the Mediterranean Sea because of malfunction of the No. 1 engine. A very heavily concentrated smoke screen obscured the target area. Returning crews believe that the bomb run was excellent and that many hits on or near the aiming point should have resulted. Nine (9) returned to the base at 1530 hours. Lieutenant Boggs and crew had to land at Naples, Italy in order to refuel, but returned to the base later that same day. There were no crew injuries.

 

                        On 30 April 1944 ten (10) B-24's took off at 0802 – 0830 hours to bomb Allessandria Marshalling Yards, Italy. There were no early returns. Twenty-five (25) tons of 500# (.10 - .025) G.P. bombs were dropped on the target at 1230 hours from 19,000' – 20,000'. The bombs were seen to it the marshalling yard, in the fields near the marshalling yards and photographic coverage shows many other burst in the city and three (3) direct hits on the state buildings. Several direct hits were observed on the munitions plant and much red flame and black and grey smoke was seen from that location. All planes returned safely to the base. There were no crew injuries.

 

            h. The Squadron Commanding Officer, Major Howard A. Davis, participated in four (4) missions this month. The objectives were: Daimler-Puch Factory, Steyr, Austria, 2 April 1944; Weiner Neustadt Aircraft Assembly Plant, Austria, 12 April 1944; Schwechat Aircraft Factory, Austria, 13 April 1944; and, the marshalling yards, Allessandria, Italy, 30 April 1944. Major Davis and his crew experienced much anxiety and danger on returning from the mission to Weiner Neustadt, Austria. Four (4) clusters of bombs hung in the bombracks when they were released and the arming wires on them were broken. The Bombardier, First Lieutenant Chester F. Kingsman, and the Navigator, First Lieutenant Raymond E. Barthelmy climbed in the bomb bay and disarmed the bombs while the ship was in flight. One (1) bomb's vane had come out and only a slight jar would have set off the bomb. The ship returned to the base and they were instructed by radio from the ground by the Armament Officer how to take the fuse out of that particular bomb. After quite a length of time, this was accomplished, and then the bombs were jettisoned in the Adriatic Sea. Normally under such extreme danger, the crew would be likely to bail out, but owing to one of the crew members, Staff Sergeant Frank who was badly wounded in the leg by flak, the entire crew chose to see the whole thing through.

 

            i. Losses in action.

                       

                        (1) On 5 April 1944 on the mission to bomb the marshalling yards at Ploesti, Roumania, one enlisted man bailed out over the target.

           

                        S/Sgt  Thomas R. Tornillo                32466984

 

                        (2) On 16 April 1944, on the mission to bomb the marshalling yards at Brasov, Roumania, one B-24 was lost as a result of enemy aircraft. Members of the crew were:

 

                        2nd Lt. Jack E. Dyer                          0-691485

                        2nd Lt. Walter M. Bensley                 0-816210

                        2nd Lt. Ronald G. Sorensen  0-694812

                        2nd Lt. George A. Ryan                     0-700772

                        Sgt  Levin J. Gearhart                       37232468

                        Sgt  Samuel C. Hardsley                  31270214

                        Sgt  John R Broyles, Jr                     34505119

                        Sgt  Delton M. Phillips                      39696413

                        Sgt  Tony B. Morrow             12033730

 

                        (3) On 25 April 1944, on the mission to bomb Varese, Italy, two (2) crew members bailed out of their ship when it went into a spin; and, two B-24's disappeared in the clouds.

 

                        S/Sgt  William R. Bristol                   16143979

                        Sgt  Samuel E. Armstrong               18047625

 

                        1st Lt. Howard L. Anderson              0-697104

                        2nd Lt. Joseph R. Henchman            0-689965

                        2nd Lt. Laurence (NMI) Levinson      0-1703118

                        2nd Lt. George W. Murray, Jr            0-748118

                        S/Sgt  Raymond F. Welty                 33302575

                        S/Sgt  William J. Ford                      17083141

                        S/Sgt  Fred L. Walch                        39187254

                        S/Sgt  Edward W. Molenda 35579638

                        Sgt  John E. White                            20810243

 

                        1st Lt. Abner D. Hervey                     0-749239

                        1st Lt. Leslie J. Paul                           0-747312

                        1st Lt. Chester F. Kingsman 0-738930

                        1st Lt. Raymond E. Barthelmy          0-674105

                        S/Sgt  Charles T. Wernett                13027447

                        T/Sgt  Benjamin A. Stock                 32378224

                        S/Sgt  Frank R. Collings                   32626578

                        S/Sgt  John O. Brown                       37437311

                        S/Sgt  William W. J. Shergold         12005895

                        S/Sgt  Stephen (NMI) Malarik          12203110

                        S/Sgt  Tilman J Thompson               36222185

 

 

            j. Following are the members of this Squadron who have received awards during this month.

 

                                                            Purple Heart

 

1st Lt. Edmund H. Wolcott                 0-799526       Mission: Aircraft Factory, Steyr, Austria 2 April 1944.

 

2nd Lt. William U. Heiser                   0-749634       Mission: Marshalling Yards, Budapest, Hungary, 3 April                                                                          1944.

 

Sgt. Thomas J. Isgrigg                     38214364      Mission: Marshalling Yards, Budapest, Hungary, 3 April                                                                          1944.

 

S/Sgt. Ernest (NMI) Santoscoy        38214364      Mission: Marshalling Yards, Bucharest, Roumania, 4                                                                                          April 1944.

 

Sgt. Donald A. Fring             16115210      Mission: Marshalling Yards, Bucharest, Roumania, 4                                                                                          April 1944.

 

T/Sgt Robert E. Monohan                31135290      Mission: Marshalling Yards, Ploesti, Roumania, 5 April                                                                           1944.

 

Sgt. J. R. (IO) Frank                          38428302      Mission: Aircraft Factory, Weiner Neustadt, Austria 12                                                                           April 1944.

 

Sgt. John (NMI) Dolida                     32392975      Mission: Sofia, Bulgaria, 17 April 1944.

 

Sgt. Harold A. White             35406937      Mission: Sofia, Bulgaria, 17 April 1944.

 

            k. Credit for destroying enemy aircraft was received by the following crew members:

 

Sgt  Edwin (NMI) Hoime                   37321318      1 – ME 109    3-4-44

2nd Lt. Robert H. Leebody                0-749619       1 – ME 109    4-4-44

S/Sgt  Robert S Bulkley                    32674281      1 – ME 109    5-4-44

Sgt  J. R. (IO) Frank                          38428302      1 – FW 190    5-4-44

Sgt  Donald R. Spencer                   31312733      1 – FW 190    5-4-44

Sgt. Vern A. Garras                          13110264      1 – ME 109    5-4-44

S/Sgt  Samuel C. Belgio                  32624341      1 – FW 190    5-4-44

Sgt  Gerry (NMI) Curreri                   32629955      1 – FW 190    5-4-44

S/Sgt  Richey E. Nelson                   18118403      1 – FW 190    5-4-44

S/Sgt  John (NMI) Panos                  32514147      1 – FW 190    16-4-44

Sgt  Harold A. White             35406939      1 – FW 190    16-4-44

 

            2. Enclosed is the war diary of this unit for the period 1 April 1944 to 30 April 1944.

 

                                    For the Commanding Officer:

                                                                                                                        ROBERT S. OGOZALEK,  

                                                                                                                        1st Lt., Air Corps,

                                                                                                                        Squadron Historian.

 

1 April 1944

 

            The crews met for briefing at 0900 but he mission was cancelled at 1000 because of weather conditions. Yes, it was raining by 1100, even if the sky was cloudless at 0900. Just another example of Italian weather.

            Life in the squadron continued as usual with the exception of the afternoon mail call. This turned out to be THE package mail call which only comes once or twice a month. There was a huge pile of packages, but no mail. However, this is onetime when there's no groans because of lack of mail – the contents of the packages take care of that.

 

2 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed at 0600 and took off on the 42nd Group mission at 0730, the target being the Daimler-Puch A/C Factory at Steyr, Austria. The planes participating in this mission were flown by: Lts. E. Anderson, Tate, T. A. Scott, H. Anderson, Dyer, Bishop, Boggs, Hervey, and Major Davis. Lts. Tate and Anderson were early returns because of mechanical trouble. Lt. McIver landed at the Island of Vis on the Yugoslav coast because of trouble, but continued on to the base shortly afterward. This squadron dropped 21 tons of demolition bombs on the target.

            As the formation approached, the target was found to be entirely covered with heavy smoke and the bombs were dropped as close to the aiming point as possible under the circumstances. The photo coverage showed the target so smoke concealed that damage assessment could not be made. The formation was attacked by many E/A in the target area consisting of ME-109's, ME-110's, FW-190's and ME-202's. The fighters kept the boys busy, but there were no claims by any of our A/C. The "Windo", metallized paper that was scattered from the planes to confuse the radar of enemy A.A. guns seemed to have effect for although the fire was intense and heavy – it was inaccurate.

            Church Services were held this morning for Protestants and Catholics and the attendance was good.

            The weekly news presentation was given at 1830 by Capt. Bowman and Lt. Ogozalek. The usual large crowd was the attendance.  

 

3 April 1944

 

            The War Birds of the 721st again spread their wings on this morning at 0630 to take part in the 43rd Group mission, the target being the Budapest Main M/Y. The planes taking part in this mission were flown by: Lts. Emch, K. Anderson, Wolcott, Weilert, Bishop, DeVane, Williford, Tate, Boggs, and Capt. Pitt. The ships carried 12 X 500 G.P. bombs on this mission. There were no early returns on this mission. The boys were strictly "on the ball"! They scored 90 bursts in the M/Y, 10 hits on an adjacent oil refinery, and numerous buildings, warehouses and factories, However, this was far from being a "milk-run" for they encountered 15/20 ME-109's and 5 FW-190's and the flak in the target area was intense, accurate, and heavy. Lt. Edmund H. Wolcott suffered flak wounds in the legs, Lt. William L. Heiser was wounded in the right heel by flak, and Sgt. Thomas J. Isgrigg was wounded in the leg by flak. Sgt. Hoime claimed one ME-109 as a probable on this mission. Also, S/Sgt Wilbur D. Mangrum suffered slight wounds on the forehead.

            The planes returned to the base at 1352 hours and all were jubilant over the success of the mission. They soon rushed to the doughnut line after landing for the doughnuts and coffee furnished by the Red Cross.

            The movie for today at the theatre in Oria was "These Heavenly Bodies" starring Hedy Lamarr, so there was a large crowd at both shows.

 

4 April 1944

 

            The planes of the 721st Squadron again "hit the air" to participate in the 45th Group mission to bomb the Bucharest M/Y and the planes on this mission were flown by: Lts. L. B. Scott, DeVane, Clark, Weilert, Hervery, Williford, Eldred, Anderson, and Major Van Sickle. Lt. Emch was an early return today. This was the Group's 44th mission and the planes carried 12 X 500 lb. G.P. bombs on this mission. Another successful mission! The target was well covered with hits causing immense damage. 70 hits were scored in the N.W. M/Y, starting large fires among rolling stock and tank cars, a high explosion in S.E. end of N.W. M/Y as bombs hit a large building inside the tracks near the choke point and there were many other hits on locomotive sheds, industrial buildings and warehouse buildings.

            Though the mission was a great success, it was far from being a "milk run", also. They encountered 10/15 ME-109's and FW-190's, 5 ME-202's, 10 JU-88's, 4 I-AR's, and one ME-110. Flak was slight to moderate, inaccurate, and heavy over the target and flak was encountered at numerous points enroute to the target and back. Sgts. Santessey and Bulkesy received minor injuries from fragments of an exploding 20 mm. shell. Lt. Leebody claimed one ME-109 shot down, and S/Sgt Eugene A. Lloyd claimed one FW-190 damaged.

            Another successful mission under the belt of this Group and everyone is looking forward to many more like it. 

 

5 April 1944

 

            The planes of the 721st Squadron again "hit the air" to participate in the 45th Group mission to bomb the Ploesti M/Y and adjacent industrial area. The planes took off at 1117 hours and were flown by: Lts. Boggs, Tate, Eldred, Clark, E. Anderson, Emch, and Capt. Pitt. The planes carried 12 X 500 G.P. bombs on this mission. Lts. Bishop and DeVane were early returns from this mission. The boys were "on the ball" again and hit the target right "on the nose" doing widespread damage. Many direct hits were scored on distillation units, storage tanks, buildings, tank cars, and on the S.E. end of the Spur M/Y.

            The boys caught it hot and heavy on this strip also, but they just took it in their stride. They encountered 50/60 ME-109's and FW-190's, 10 ME-110's, and 10/15 JU-88s. S/Sgts. Bulkley and Curreri both claim an FW-190 destroyed each. S/Sgts. S. C. Belgio claims 1 ME-109 destroyed. Sgt. J. M. Clark claims one FW-190 destroyed. S/Sgt. J. R. Frank claims one FW-190 destroyed. Sgt Spencer claims one ME-109 destroyed. Sgt. Monroe claims one FE-190 destroyed. Thus, our gang can "dish it out" as well as take it. The only crew injury was S/Sgt R. E. Monahan which was a minor head injury.

            The ship in which S/Sgt Tornillo was the tail Gunner was hit by a 20 mm. shell, setting the wiring and hydraulic fluid in the tail turret on fire. The concussion of the explosion blew Sgt. Tornillo back in to the fuselage. Seeing the ship on fire, and evidently stunned from the explosion, Sgt. Tornillo bailed out through the camera hatch before anyone had time to stop him as the waist gunners were fighting off attacks from enemy fighters. The fire was extinguished and the plane returned to the base safely.

 

6 April 1944

 

            There was no combat mission flown on this date due to adverse weather conditions.

            During the afternoon, crews who had flown over 5 missions but who had not received their Air Medals were presented them this afternoon.

            The last practice for tonight was held in the Chaplains office for the Easter Service. A good crowd was present.

 

7 April 1944

 

            The crews took off this morning at 1003 hours on the 46th Group mission to bomb the M/Y at Mestre, Italy. The planes today were flown by: Lts. DeVane, Bishop, Clark, H. L. Anderson, K. Anderson, Dyer, Williford, and Capt. Pitt. Lt. Weilert was an early return today. The ships carried 12 X 500 lb. G.P. bombs today and plastered the target and surrounding area. A very heavy concentration of bombs were dropped on the R.R. Station and adjoining yard areas, on warehouses and industrial plants. All planes returned at 1533 hours and "hit" the usual doughnut and coffee line.

            There was a matinee and evening show today with the attraction being "Cabin In The Sky", starring Ethel Waters and of course there was a large crowd to see this.

 

8 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed at 0745 for a mission but it was cancelled soon after briefing.

            A practice mission was flown soon after to "brush up" on the formation flying.

            The men, who are of the Jewish Faith, went to Easter Refugee Jewish Services tonight that were held in Taranto.

 

9 April 1944

 

            There was no mission today due to threatening weather, so the church Services were well attended.

            The Protestant Services was held out on the field with a silver B-24 for the background of the altar. The choir and organ were standing on one side of the altar and there was a background of palm fronds on the other side.

            There were 650 bomb stands for the congregation to sit on, but the crowd was estimated at 1300. Many pictures were made of this service, including movies. A communion service was held at the close of the service.

            The weekly News Presentation was held at 1830 tonight and the usual "full house' was repeated, in fact, many couldn't even get inside the door of the War Room.

 

10 April 1944

 

            There was no briefing or mission today as Ole Sol was pretty well covered by cloud throughout the day.

            A practice mission was flown during the afternoon to familiarize new crews with this type of formation flying.

            The movie today was "The Miracle of Morgan's Creek" which was in a lighter vein and was enjoyed by all who attended.

 

11 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed at 0900 for a mission, but it was cancelled at 1000 because of weather conditions in the target area.

            Another practice mission was flown during the afternoon to give new crews more experience in the formation flying and it was impressed on them that staying in a tight formation was a necessity for safety.

 

12 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed this morning and took off at 0811 hours on the 47th Group Mission to bomb factory buildings of the Wiener Neustadt Aircraft Assembly Plant. The planes were flown this morning by: Lts. L. B. Scott, Weilert, Tate, Emch, Eldred, Williford, H. Anderson, Boggs, and Major Davis. Lt. T. A. Scott was an early return on this mission. The bomb load today was 40 100 lb. G. P. bombs which caused quite a bit of trouble in the bomb racks. Major Davis led this Group's formation today and led them directly over the target, chalking up another good mission for this Group. Photo coverage showed concentrations of bursts on the south two-thirds of the target and extending across the highway and railroad. A large work shop received many hits and also the Hansehel and Sohn Factory. Many bursts with heavy concentration hit on the north side of the A/P, extending west across the highway and railroad. This, another red-letter day for the 450th Bombardment Group.

            There were no encounters on this mission but intense, excellent, heavy type flak was experienced over the target causing much damage and flak was encountered along the route to the target and back.

            S/Sgt Hinnenkamp was wounded by flak and also S/Sgt Frank. These were our only crew injuries.

            Major Davis and his crew surely did experience much anxiety and danger of this mission. 4 clusters of bombs hung in the bomb racks when they were released and the arming wires on them were broken. The Bombardier, Lt. Kingsman, and the Navigator, Lt. Barthelmy climbed in the bomb bay and disarmed the bombs while the ship was in flight. One bomb's vane had come out and only a slight jar would have set off the bomb. The ship returned to the base and they were instructed by radio from the ground by the Armament Officer how to take the fuse out of that particular bomb. After quite a length of time, this was accomplished, and then the bombs were jettisoned in the Adriatic. Normally under such extreme danger, the crew would be likely to bail out, but owing to one of the crew members. S/Sgt Frank, who was badly wounded in the leg by flak, the entire crew chose to see the whole thing through. This was a fine example of courage and ability.

            The movie today was "Girl Crazy", starring Mickey Rooney. A USO stage show was also presented and capacity crowds were present at both shows.  

 

13 April 1944

 

            The planes took off today at 0900 hours on the 48th Group mission to bomb the Vecec A/D, at Budapest. The planes were flown today by: Lts. McIver, Bishop, Emch, L. L. Anderson, DeVane, Weilert, Dyer, Gallagher, Hervey, and Boggs. Again the boys were "on the beam" and they caused great damage to the airdrome today, the bomb load being 20 Frag clusters to the ship. The greatest concentration of hits were to the right of the aiming point and in the southeast dispersal area. Thirty-five fighters and bomber transport planes were destroyed and five were damaged. There were no encounters with E/F today which added greatly to the happiness of the crews. However, the flak that was encountered over the target was moderate, good, and heavy. Flak was also encountered enroute to and from the target. All planes returned to the Base safely at 1510 hours, and the crews made a "beeline" for the Red Cross doughnut and coffee line. Also, there were no crew injuries today.

 

14 April 1944

 

            No mission today as Ole Sol had again become bashful and hid behind the clouds.

            A practice mission was flown during he afternoon for the benefit of new crews. Well, they should have plenty of good experience under their belts when they hit the real thing!!

            The movie today was "Buffalo Bill", starring Joel McCrae and Linda Darnell.

15 April 1944

 

            The planes took off at 0818 hours on the 49th Group mission to bomb the Marshalling Yards at Bucharest. The bomb load today was 10 X 500 lb. G.P. bombs to the ship. The planes participating in the mission today were flown by: Lts. E. Anderson, Dyer, H. L. Anderson, DeVane, L. B. Scott, Gallagher, and Capt. Pitt. Lts. McIver, Tate, Clarke, and Bishop were early returns today. The target was completely covered by overcast today and all bombed on Pathfinder ships. It is believed that the W.W. corner of the city was hit, but actual results are unknown. Although E/A were sighted, there were no encounters as they were engaged by the P-38 escort. Slight, inaccurate, heavy flak was encountered over the target, and flak was also encountered along the route to and from the target. All planes returned to the base at 1520 hours, and they had no crew injuries today.

 

16 April 1944

 

            The ships took off this morning at 0753 hours on the 50th Group mission. The planes participating in the mission today were flown by: Lts. McIver, Tate, Eldred, Weilert, Bishop, Boggs, E. Anderson, and Capt. Pitt. Lt. Emch was an early return today. The bomb load was 10 X 500 G.P. bombs and the target was the Brasov M/Y. Lt. Boggs and Lt. Emch brought their bombs back to the base, but Lt. E. Anderson jettisoned his bombs in Rumania to try to stay in formation, but was soon forced to fall out. The target area was well covered with an excellent concentration of bombs at the Aiming point. A huge column of smoke was seen at the Aiming Point from oil fires and other fires and smoke were seen over the entire M/Y as the formation pulled away. Another Red Letter day to be chalked up to the 450th! This was no "milk run" whatsoever as 20/30 ME-109's and FW-190's attacked the group very aggressively. S/Sgt Penos and Sgt. White each claim one FW-190 destroyed. Lt. Dyer's ship was shot down by the E/F and 9 chutes were seen from his plane. The boys also experienced slight to moderate, inaccurate, heavy type flak over the target. Other than the loss of Lt. Dyer's ship and crew, all of our shops returned uninjured and all crews uninjured.

            Church Services were held this morning by both Protestants and Catholics. The Protestant Service was held out on the field where the Easter Service was held last Sunday. The announcement was made that the Protestant Service would be held there from now on.

 

17 April 1944

 

            The "White-Tailed Liberators" again spread their wings this morning, taking off at 0916 hours on the 51st Group mission to bomb Sofia, Bulgaria. The bomb load today was 40 100 lb. Demo. bombs to the ship. The planes participating in today's raid were flown by: Lt. Weilert, E. Anderson, Emch, McIver, Boggs, Gallagher, DeVane, Bishop, Tate, L. B. Scott, and Eldred. The bombing today was done by Pathfinder method which was to select the center of the city as the Aiming Point. Photo coverage showed approximately 200 bursts in the city beginning 2000 ft. S.W. of the Cathedral and extending southward for 4000 ft. Bursts were noted in the industrial area between the S.E. end of the M/Y and Cathedral extending 3500 ft. S.E. There were also 130 hits on the M/Y and installations, 80 bursts on tracks and rolling stock which started fires and 50 other bursts on the repair shop and large warehouse on the S.E. side of the M/Y. Another Red Letter day for the 450th and a raid that should certainly be of consequence to the Russian Forces, also.

            The only fighters encountered today were 8/10 ME-109's and FW-190's, but the attacks were not aggressive on the whole and only  one of our ships was hit by a 20 mm. shell, causing an injury to Sgt Harold A. White, who suffered wounds in the right leg from shrapnel. Flak was experienced over the target area, being moderate to intense, accurate, and heavy of the barrage type. Flak was also encountered at two other points enroute. The ships returned at 1415 hours and the men gathered on the ground in the doughnut and coffee line.

            The movie today was "What A Woman", starring Rosalind Russell. Good crowds were in attendance at both shows.  

 

18 April 1944

 

            There was no mission on this date due to adverse weather conditions. Squadron activity was confined to the usual channels with the preparing of the planes for the next mission.

            A catastrophe occurred sometime late this afternoon. Lt. T. A. Scott, accompanied by Lt. Huisking, Lt. Basamania, and S/Sgt Riskol, went to Foggia to bring back their ship, "Paper Doll" which had been left there a number of days before coming back from a mission. On the return rip, the plane crashed, killing all occupants. The case of the crash has not been determined.

 

19 April 1944

 

            There was no mission today due to adverse weather conditions. Maybe it's spring, but this Italian weather is still almost unpredictable from day to day.

            The movie today was "Johnny Come Lately", starring James Cagney and a large crowd was the attendance for both shows. Numbers had to walk back from the afternoon show, however, due to lack of transportation.

            The funeral services for Lt. T. A. Scott, Lt. Huisking, Lt. Basamania, and S/Sgt Risko were held this afternoon at Bari. They were given a full military funeral and large numbers of the squadron attended to pay their last respects to these men.

 

20 April 1944

 

            The planes took off this morning at 0940 hours to bomb the M/Y at Trevio, Italy. The bomb load today was 10 X 500 G.P. bombs per ship. The ships flying today were flown by: Lts. DeVane, Gallagher, Weilert, H. L. Anderson, Boggs, E. Anderson, Emch, and Hervery. Lt. Clark and Lt. Eldred returned early, returning his bomb load to the base. There was a complete overcast in the target area which prevented the dropping of any bombs. For the same reason, the formation was unable to select any alternate target. All other planes jettisoned their bombs in the Adriatic Sea. The planes landed at 1550 hours without any plane damages or crew injuries. However, flak was encountered at several points along the route, but it was inaccurate.

            Everyone tramped to the weekly PX for their rations which includes a coke now. They sure do taste good, even without ice!

 

21 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed this morning at 0745 and took off at 0840 to bomb Ploesti. Major Davis, the Squadron Commander was the Group leader, but shortly after leaving on course, all planes were recalled by Wing because of weather conditions.

            The movie today was "Dangerous Blonde" and there was an Italian stage show at both shows, also. Although quite different from the American USO shows, they certainly provide plenty of laughs.

 

22 April 1944

 

            There was no mission today due to adverse weather conditions. Squadron inspection was held at 0900 this morning. Other squadron activities were confined to the usual channels.

23 April 1944

 

            The "White-Tailed Liberators" took off this morning at 1000 hours on the 54th Group mission. The target today was the A/C Factory at Schwechat, Austria and the bomb load today was 10 X 500 G.P. bombs per ship. The planes participating in today's mission were flown by: Lts. Emch, Eldred, H. L. Anderson, E. Anderson, McInver, Gallagher, Bishop, DeVane, Weilert, Capt. Pitt, and Major Davis. There were no early returns on today's mission. The target was well hit on this mission, but some bombs were observed bouncing off the roofs of the buildings after hitting, indicating that they were of very heavy, reinforced concrete and steel construction. Photo coverage showed bursts in workshop area between main assembly shop and highway running to Vienna.

            There were direct hits on buildings and one runway. A number of E/A were destroyed on the ground. There were no encounters with E/F today, but the flak over the target was intense, accurate, and heavy. The ships returned to the base at 1750 hours with no crew injuries and with only minor damage to two aircraft due to flak.

            Protestant and Catholic Church services were held this morning. Protestant Services were held out on the field south of the hangar.

            The weekly News Presentation was given tonight by Capt. Bowman and Lt. Ogozalek. A very large crowd was present as usual.

 

24 April 1944

 

            The mission today was to Ploesti, Romania, and the target today was the M/Y. The planes took off at 0830 and were flown by: Lts. Helmberger, Eldred, Hollander, Tate, Emch, McIver, Bishop, Weilert, Gilday, and Gallagher. Lt. DeVane never took off. The target had a few hits on it but otherwise, most of the bombs fell short of the target. Flak was very heavy, intense, and accurate. Although there were not many hits on the aiming point, many large oil fires were started.

            Lt. Hollander, pilot of #227, had a rather unusual experience today and one that he isn't likely to forget soon. He flew without his steel helmet up till just a few minutes from the target and then finally decided to put it on. Just a few minutes before the target, a large piece of flak came through the window of the plane, striking his helmet, knocking Lt. Hollander out of his seat on the floor and also knocking his helmet off. Other than the scare, Lt. Hollander suffered no other effects from this incident, but I should imagine that he'll be a firm believer of wearing the steel helmet from now on.

            The movie at the theatre in Oria today was "Action in The North Atlantic". A large attendance was present.

 

25 April 1944

 

            Briefing was held at 0700 this morning. The target was the Varese A/C Factory in Northern Italy above Milan. The bomb load was 10 X 500 G.P. bombs per ship, and they took off at 0830. Flying today were; Capt. Pitt, Lts. Hervey, E. Anderson, H. Anderson, DeVane, Gallagher, Helmberger, McIver, Hollander, and Eldred. Capt. Pitt, Lts. E. Anderson, Helmberger, McIver, Hollander, and Eldred returned early. The mission was unsuccessful. Two of our crews are missing, Lts. Hervey and H. Anderson.

            Nothing reliable had been reported on these two crews. The weather today has been "on and off", sunny, showers, and misty. Two of Lt. E. Anderson's gunners bailed out when his ship lost altitude in a spin which was caused by another ship coming up in front of him in a cloud, throwing him in its prop wash.

            Marlene "Legs" Dietrich was to stage a show for the men tonight but due to her illness, the show was postponed until a later date.

            Colonel Mills and all the Pilots held a "Critique" this evening in the War Room.

 

26 April 1944

 

            There was a very early morning briefing today. The target scheduled was the Airdrome at Wiener-Neustadt. The mission was briefed, but was immediately scrubbed due to weather conditions.

            The wind blew and the remainder of the day was very dreary. Lt. Chronister gave an interesting Target Information Lecture to the bombardiers this afternoon.

            There was a movie today at Oria which was "Riding High", starring Dorothy Lamour. A large crowd was present at both shows.

 

27 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed this morning to bomb the Airfield at Wiener-Neustadt but the mission was again scrubbed just after briefing because of weather conditions.

            It was partly cloudy all day, but the sun managed to shine through most of the day making it very nice and warm.

            Representatives from this Squadron attended a meeting held by Wing in the War Room this afternoon. Colonel Kyle was one of the speakers at this meeting.        

 

28 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed and took off on the 57th Group mission at 1115 to bomb the Port Installations at Orbetallo, Italy. The bomb load today was 10 X 500 demolition bombs on each ship. The crews flying today were: Lts. Clarke, Boggs, Gilday, Tate, Helmberger, Emch, E. Anderson, Gallagher, Weilert, and DeVane. The weather was cloudy and quite cold today.

            The planes found their target, but only a few of the bombs hit the target, the majority of them striking in the water. All of the ships returned at 1715 and there were no crew injuries. The Group experienced moderate, extremely accurate, heavy flak over the target which holed several of our ships. The target was partially cloud obscured during the bomb run and although many hit were observed striking the water, there is a possibility of hits that did not show on the photos.

            There were two shows at the theatre today which had a very good attendance. The movie was "A Lady Takes a Chance", starring Jean Arthur and John Payne.

 

29 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed early this morning for the Group's 58th mission. They took off at 0730 – once again to strike the Harbor of Toulon, France! The bomb load today was 5 X 1000 lb. demolition bombs per ship. The crews flying today were: Capt. Pitt, Lts, Helmberger, Boggs, Gilday, Emch, McIver, Bishop, Weilert, Martin. All crews completed the mission successfully today – no early returns. A very heavily concentrated smoke screen obscured the target area and was very effective, however, returning crews believed that the bomb run was excellent and that many hits on or near the aiming point were scored. Photo coverage showed bursts beginning 2500 feet south of the target and extending into the smoke on a favorable axis. No enemy fighters were encountered today, but the flak was extremely accurate, believed to be the most accurate this Group has ever experienced. All ships in this squadron returned safely, however, Lt. Bishop had to stop at Naples on the return to pick up more gas to reach this base. There was also no crew injuries on this mission.

            An orientation lecture was given to the new crews in the War Room this morning by the Intelligence Section.

30 April 1944

 

            The crews were briefed this morning and took off at 0802 hours on the 59th Group mission to bomb the M/Y at Allessandria. The bomb load today was 10 X 500 demo bombs per ship. The crews flying today were: Major Davis, Lts. Scott, DeVane, Tate, Helmberger, Gallagher, McIver, Emch, Martin, and Gilday. Major Davis led the whole 47th Wing on this mission. After making a good run on the target, approximately 50 hits fell in the M/Y but a large number fell in fields east of the South M/Y. Several direct hits were scored on ammunitions plant and much red flame and black and gray smoke were seen from that location. No enemy fighters were encountered today and the flak was light and inaccurate, heavy type. All planes returned without damage or crew injuries at 1230 hours.

            Church Services were held this morning, the Protestant Services were held in the 331st Mess Hall because of extremely high winds.

            The weekly news lecture was given tonight at 1830 in the War Room by Capt. Bowman and Lt., Ogozalek. A very large crowd was present tonight as usual, the British being well represented. Thus, the end of another month for the 721st Bombardment Squadron in a theater of operations.

 

Robert S Ogozalek,

1st Lt., Air Corps,

Squadron Historian

 




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