|
Post by limburger59 on May 20, 2023 16:25:36 GMT -8
To unlock 23 July 2023 Turn in AAR's no later than 5 Aug 23 Next mission to post 4 Aug 23
MISSION DATE: 7 Jan 44 MISSION # 1TARGET: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome Bombing Altitude: 20,000 feet Mission Brief: All players - both new and returning - are encouraged to carefully review the House Rules and Options shared in this Introduction, before beginning the campaign. There are no unique Mission Specific Rules for Mission #1. Good Luck!Map: FORMATION:HIGH | 78th SQDN |
| MID | 79th SQDN |
| LOW | 80th SQDN | LEAD: | Laid Back Lady (crushedhat)
|
| LEAD: | Pride of the Badgers (wolverinetoddy)
|
| LEAD: | Mighty Mouse
| TAIL: | Valkyrie (medic1) |
| TAIL: | Invadin' Maiden (medic1)
|
| TAIL: | Zig-Zag |
WEATHER:
Takeoff: Good Target: Good Landing: Poor GAZETTEER: Note that TFT players will start using Table 5-3B.Zone | Modifier (QotS) | Weather/Resistance (TfT) | Fighter Cover | 2 Adriatic Sea | X | 50% Clouds/None | Fair | 3 Adriatic Sea | -2 | 50% Clouds/Light | Fair | TARGET ZONE 4 Yugoslavia FLAK: Outbound: Light Inbound: None | -2 | 50% Clouds/Light Target: Mostly Obscured TFT: Bombing Manually
| Fair | 3 Adriatic Sea | -2 | 100% Clouds/Light | Fair | 2 Adriatic Sea | X | 100% Clouds/None | Fair |
Emergency Airfield: None Shot Down: Over Water (if you didn't drown): Zone 2: you are rescued by the Royal Navy Zone 3: you are captured Over Yugoslavia: See Option for Bailing Out and Escaping
|
|
|
Post by crushedhat on Jul 21, 2023 13:35:37 GMT -8
78th Squadron Assignments for Mission 1
Lead: Laid Back Lady (crushedhat) Tail: Valkyrie (medic1)
Paul Garfield, Capt, USAAF, XO, 78th (H) Bomb Squadron
|
|
|
Post by superbee on Jul 22, 2023 6:42:32 GMT -8
Absolutely stunning map work - wow !!
|
|
ChefEd
78th Bomber Squadron
Posts: 471
|
Post by ChefEd on Jul 22, 2023 7:46:55 GMT -8
Absolutely stunning map work - wow !! Thanks. Found the master map, I used, as a hi-res copy of a 1940 map depicting the situation in Europe during the "Phony War".
|
|
|
Post by andy254 on Jul 22, 2023 10:00:34 GMT -8
Maj Harlan Beech, S2 for the 509th BG steps up to the podium. As he was taught at West Point, Beech stands ramrod straight as he begins his briefing. Behind him on the wall sits a large map of the Italian Theater of Operations, with a string stretched from the 509th’s base to the target to show the route. SSgt Charles Dewbury, the Intel NCO stands by with his pointer, ready top indicate any locations called out by Maj Beech.
“This is our first mission with the 15th and it looks like they are breaking us in easy,” Beech begins. “Enemy resistance is expected to be light. Don’t confuse that for being undetermined. First contact will likely occur as you approach the Yugoslavian coast.” SSgt Dewbury taps the map where the Yugoslav coast and the string marking the route intersect. “Once the Luftwaffe picks you up, they will harry you to the target and back, leaving once you are back over the Adriatic.”
“Flak defenses at the airdrome are minimal. You will face light flak on target ingress. Most probably little to none on egress as the Germans seek to conserve ammunition. The Partisans have been making it difficult for them to ship more supplies.”
“Speaking of the Partisans, they control a great deal of the territory in and around the target. AS a consequence, if you run into trouble you may not jettison your bombs over land. It would not be wise to upset the Partisans, as some of you may need their assistance if things go South. More on that in a moment.”
“You’re escort will P-47 from the 325th FG. They recently transitioned from the P-40 and this will be one of their first combat mission with the new aircraft. That, in combination that the 325th will be conducting fighter sweeps ahead of you means your actual escort may be less than you are hoping for.” Beech waits for the grumbling to die down before continuing.
“On a cheerier note, Metro predicts the weather for takeoff and to the target will be good. However, they are tracking a front that is expected to hit the target about the same time as you, making it harder to acquire the AP. And, the front is forecast to follow you home, meaning you’ll be landing in rain.” Once more the S2 has to wait for the grumbling to subside.
“Should you run into trouble over the Adriatic, the Royal Navy will have ships stationed along the route to pick you up out of the sea. Unfortunately, the Kriegsmarine will be doing the same near the Yugoslav coast.”
“If you end up in Yugoslavia, hope you fall into Partisan hands. And, hope no one dropped their bombs where they shouldn’t have. If you end up captured, remember, under the Geneva convention you are only required to give your name, rank, and serial number. Under the Fighting Man’s Code, you may not provide anything more. You also have an obligation to try to escape. AS per your E&E training, the best opportunity to do so is early in your captivity.”
“I’ll now turn you over to the S3, Maj Stockwell", he says by way of conclusion.
Major William H Stockwell, S3 for the 509th BG, steps up to the podium, a slight limp evident to his gait. There is no ramrod posture with this man. He may not have had West Point training but it is clear he has seen war has seen what war can do to a man. With greying hair, some would have expected him to be sitting this war out or at least have stars on his shoulder boards instead of gold oak leaves. He grips the sides of the podium and looks around at the eager fresh faces, eager to do their bit for Uncle Sam.
"Good morning, gentlemen. It is good to see you here today, ready to get up into the wild blue yonder and fight the good fight. I've been up there and if your experiences are like mine, you wanted to go straight back up the moment you landed. I haven't flown a desk all of my time in the Army Air Corps and have a lot of experience up there. If you find me in the bar, I might tell you about them.
"Anyway, to business.
"Your target today is the airbase in Mostar. As well as being a Luftwaffe base, intel says it is being used by the ZNDH, the airforce of the Independent State of Croatia, a Nazi puppet state in the Yugoslavian region. Most of their activities are directed against Tito's partisans, so hitting we'd be helping out our allies if we put it out of action. Even though Italy has capitulated, their planes are still being used by the pro-Nazi Balkan puppet states. As I am sure you are all familiar with Italian fighter designs as well as the German ones, you may well see some of them up there today. I would be up flying as well if someone was bombing my base. If they are shooting you or it looks like they are about to, you shoot them.
"While you've been settling in, I've overheard while I've been walking around and received news from other admin staff that some of you are disappointed. You are moaning that your assigned planes are the soon to be obsolescent versions of the B-17 and B-24 and not the newest models. These are being delivered, and you will be assigned a new plane if your current one was lost in action but you made it home, or becomes a Category G and it is not economical to repair it. However, any attempt to deliberately trash your plane or sabotage it in a way that it spends more time with the ground crew than the aircrew just as an attempt to get a new model allocated will be found out.
"One advantage being old is that I know all of the tricks out there. Just because it is new to you does not mean it is new to me.
"Ideally, I want to see you all get home safely with barely a scratch on your four-engined ships. The less work you give your crew chief and the rest of the ground crew, the happier they will be. Hit the enemy first and and hit them harder than they hit you. Follow your training up there, and pray to God or Lady Luck for those elements training does not cover.
"Good luck up there. I wish I was going with you."
|
|
jasta6
78th Bomber Squadron
Spring is here and summer is close behind... It is Cruise Season!
Posts: 277
|
Post by jasta6 on Jul 23, 2023 4:32:31 GMT -8
B-24D "Stupid Dragon" Serial #: B-24D-145-CO 42-41210 Code: 06 Pilot: 1Lt. Thomas Barber Squadron: 78th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th US Air Force, Castellucio Airfield Squadron Position: High Formation Position: #10 (Middle) Mission Date: 7th January 1944 Mission Number: 1 (Mission #1) Target: Ingolstadt, Germany - Marshaling Yards POSITION/RANK/NAME
| # Missions | TOTAL CLAIMS | TODAY'S CLAIMS | Confirmed Claims | Crew Status | Notes: | Pilot 1Lt. Moeses I. Horst | 0 | - | - | - | RTD | 1st Mission for crew and plane | Co-Pilot 2Lt. Slavisa J. Mackoff | 0 | - | - | - | RTD |
| Bombardier S/Sgt Mantra K. Hart | 0 | - | - | - | RTD |
| Navigator 2nd Lt. Gary Z. Scarbro | 0 | - | - | - | RTD |
| Engineer (TT) T/Sgt. Ernestor L. Pasiak | 0 | - | - | - | RTD |
| Radio Operator S/Sgt. Reny O. Scaccia | 0 | - | - | - | RDT |
| Ball Gunner Sgt. Evan F. Wiman | 0 | - | - | - | RTD |
| Port Waist Gunner Sgt. Jonny F. Brim
| 0 | - | - | - | RTD
|
| Starboard Waist Gnr. Sgt. Duncan C. Freeland | 0 | - | - | - | RTD |
| Tail Gunner Sgt. Wilbern I. Perez | 0 | - | - | - | RTD |
| Crew Chief: S/Sgt. Joseph A. Capetti [Ave. Joe]
| 1 | Hard Stand: | #26 |
|
|
|
* Mission Note: No mission credit for crew or aircraft as the "Stupid Dragon" and crew had to Abort due to an engine fire right after Take-off.Bomb Load: 12x 500lbs AN-M84 General Purpose Bombs Bomb Run: DNB, DNB Crew Chief Report: S/Sgt. Alfred (Al) Falso [Ave. Joe] Hard Stand: #26 Pre Mission Repair status: (2D6=7; Standard Mechanical Rolls this mission) Post Mission Repairs & Crew Chief Experience roll: (2D6=5; Good Work on Aircraft repairs, 0.5 Experience Point)B-17 Damage: 40pts. Engine #4 started running rough on takeoff and caught fire once in the air. Mechanical Issues: #4 Engine malfunctioning causing an oil fire. Random Events: None Repair Time: over night to repair, returns to service on January 8th 1944. Replacement Bomber: None Landing: OK E/A Encountered: 0 EA Claimed:Claims: | Aircraft: | Confirmed: | None | - | - |
Enemy Aircraft:Type | Encountered | Destroyed | Probable | Damaged | Intercepted
| None | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Casualties: None Recuperating:POSITION/RANK/NAME
| # Missions
| TOTAL CLAIMS | TODAY'S CLAIMS | Confirmed Claims | Crew Status | Notes:
| None
| - | - | - | - | - | -
|
Award/ Promotions Requests:none Replacements:
None After Action Report ( game system - TfT): Highly disappointing day after all the anticipation of our first mission!?...”
-- Pg 2 -- Mission Debriefing
1st Lt Barber, 79th BS Pilot MISSION #1 (Groups 1) Date: January 7th, 1944 Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia, Aerodrome Plane: B-24D-210 "Kat-Astrophe" Position: High Cell / (#10) Altitude: 20,000feet 12x 500lbs AN-M64 Fragmentation Bombs Mission Report C04M01 - 210
O/B Zone 1: Engine #4 started running rough on takeoff and caught fire once in the air. Had to call in for an immediate return to base. 1st Lt. Moeses HorstPilot of, " Stupid Dragon" (B-24D-145-CO 42-41210) 78th BS, 509th BG(H), 15th USAAF. Foggia, Italy- Station 164 (Circle)
|
|
|
Post by medic1 on Jul 23, 2023 6:15:40 GMT -8
B-17F INVADIN’ MAIDEN 5-BO-44-30823 Pilot: 1st Lt Franklin Marks Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force Formation/Position: Tail/Middle Mission Date: 7 Jan 44 Mission Number: 001 Missions This Bomber: 1 Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome
Crew/Position/Rank
| Current Missions | Previous Claims
| This Mission
| Stress Points
| Status | Pilot 1st Lt Franklin Marks
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Ted Masini
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Witkowski
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Navigator 2nd Lt Tom Cassidy
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado
| 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | RTD | Radioman T/Sgt Bruce Woodside
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostanaro
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | PWG S/Sgt Noreno Costa
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | SWG Sgt Peter Lesniak
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD |
Bomb Run: Off On Target: 0%
B-17 Damage: 2 Hits Superficial x 1 Port Wing x 1 -superficial Peckham Points: 2 Repair Time: Overnight Maintenance Crew Chief: S/Sgt Steve Yates, average Landing: Safe at FoggiaE/A Encountered:
E/A | Encountered | Destroyed | Probable | Damaged | Intercepted | Bf-109 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | Bf-110 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | C-202 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | C-205 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Fw-190 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | G-50 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | G-55 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | He-112 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | IAR-80 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | Re-2000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Re-2001 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Confirmed Claims: 1 S/Sgt Curt Mercado 1 x Bf-109G
Casualties: 0 Award/ Promotions Requests: 0
After Action Report(using QOTS):
The crew was excited for their first action, and we took off in good weather conditions. Our first taste of action occurred out the IP where we encountered a IAR 80 and two 112 Henkel’s. A 112 and the 80 were driven off by our little friends. Cassidy and Kostanero hammered away at the remaining 112 at 1:30 low, with Kostanero's tracers observed striking the engine area and the fighter was seen having great difficulty as we lost sight of it in the clouds. The flak was light, but still terrifying to a new crew who were experiencing it for the first time. Thankfully, it was quite inaccurate. But a combination of flak and the target being somewhat obscured by clouds Witkowski had trouble dialing in the target. He announced bombs away and we felt the ship rise as it became lighter. Kostanero had a good view from his ball turret and announced that all bombs were off target. INBOUND
We turned for the rally point without any flak on the inbound path, where we encountered three 109G coming in from 12 level, 1:30 and 6 High. The 6:00 turned to meet the oncoming threat of a P-47 while the crew engaged the remaining 109s. Kostanaro traded shots with the 12:00 with the 109 hitting the port wing and the airframe. He came back at 3 High and Mercado's burst laced the inside wing, fuselage and engine. The fighter began to emit smoke, turn slightly, then suddenly exploded.
The rest of the flight was uneventful, and we landed without incident though somewhat dejected. Missing the target on your first mission is not a way to start your career. The lone bright spot was Mercado’s downing one of Germany’s supermen. Witkowski is genuinely sorry and offered to buy the drinks tonight. Something tells me he's going to be broke until next payday. 1st Lt Franklin Marks, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS, 509th BG (Heavy), 15th AF
|
|
|
Post by medic1 on Jul 23, 2023 7:22:00 GMT -8
B-24D Valkyrie (B24D-CF-42-52116) Pilot: 1st Lt Ken Shipman Squadron: 78th Bomber Squadron Formation/Position: Tail/High Mission Date: 7 Jan 44 Mission Number: 001 Missions This Bomber: 1 Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome
Crew/Position/Rank
| Current Missions | Previous Claims
| This Mission
| Stress Points
| Status | Pilot 1st Lt Ken Shipman
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mark Ridley
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Bombardier 2nd Lt Phil Avery
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Navigator 2nd Lt Sergio Pendas
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Engineer T/Sgt Tom Bankston
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Radioman S/Sgt George Redman
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Tunnel Gunner Sgt Kent Conlin
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | PWG Sgt Walt Whitney
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | SWG Sgt Dave Trevisano
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Tail Gunner Sgt Carlos Morales
| 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD |
Bomb Run: On On Target: 30%
B-17 Damage: 0 Hits Peckham Points: 0 Repair Time: Routine Maintenance Crew Chief: S/Sgt Steve Yates, average Landing: Safe at FoggiaE/A Encountered:
E/A | Encountered | Destroyed | Probable | Damaged | Intercepted | Bf-109 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | Bf-110 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | C-202 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | C-205 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Fw-190 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | G-50 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | G-55 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | He-112 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | IAR-80 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Re-2000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Re-2001 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Confirmed Claims: 0 Casualties: 0 Award/ Promotions Requests: 0
After Action Report(using QOTS):
Our first mission and we were tagged to fly in the tail position for the Squadron. Some of the boys were nervous about this as they have heard stories about bombers and they eat there for us flying in the position of "Purple Heart corner."
The weather was excellent on take off and we formed up without any issues or Gremlins, formed up and started out over the Adriatic Sea.
As we reached the IP the cry of bandits sounded over the intercom and gunners called out positions of six incoming 109F fighters. A P-47 arrived and managed to chase off one of two 109s our tail, but the odds were still five to one.
Valkyrie shook as the gunner's opened fire. Bankston in the top turret poured some accurate fire into one at 3 high, but the fighter disappeared in the clouds and couldn't be confirmed. Morales in the tail clearly saw pieces fly off of the remaining 6 High 109, possibly throwing off the pilots aim as the fighter missed hitting us with return fire and quickly left.
The remaining fighters traded shots with us and nothing came of these exchanges except the waste of ammunition for both sides.
We experience flak for the first time and find a quite unnerving, and thankfully light and not very accurate. Avery called bombs away and we observed about 30% of our payload land on target.
INBOUND
We turned for the rally point without any further flak hindering us and were greeted by a IAR-80 coming in at 3 low and two He-112 at 1:30 low and 6 high. The 112 at 6 high was pounced on by a Thunderbolt and the remaining two fighters snapped off a few quick inaccurate bursts and left the scene.
The rest of the flight was uneventful and we descended through dark clouds and landed successfully on to a rain soaked field.
As dark as the skies were around us there were bright smiles from the crew as we successfully completed our first mission flying the tail position, protecting the squadron's rear and hitting the target.
We'll celebrate in the bar tonight knowing that not all of our missions are going to be this easy.
1st Lt Ken Shipman, Pilot Commanding, 78th BS, 509th BG, 15th AF
|
|
|
Post by wolverinetoddy on Jul 23, 2023 10:30:55 GMT -8
B-17 Name: Pride of the Badgers (1) Crew Commander: Captain WW Robinson Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Formation: Middle Position: Lead
Mission Date: 7 Jan 44 Mission #: 1
Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome
Position: Name (mission #) {Claims After} Status Pilot: Capt. WW Robinson (1) {0} Co-Pilot: 2nd Lt. J Van Door (1) {0} Bombardier: 2nd Lt. C Lefler (1) {0} PH, DFC Navigator: 2nd Lt. W Sloat (1) {0} Engineer: MSgt. A Bissett (1) {0} Ball Gunner: Sgt. E Dean (1) {0} Radio Oper.: Sgt. I Cooper (1) {0} Pt Waist G: Sgt. S Hatfield (1) {0} Stbd Waist G: Sgt. J Lewis (1) {0} Tail Gunner: Sgt. J Lindsay (1) {0} PH
Bomb Percentage: 95% Bomber Disposition: Starboard Waist O2, Superficial Damage (19 Peckham Points)
Casualties: C Lefler: LW – 1 day in hospital J Lindsay: SW – died of wounds
Claims (BY TYPE): Attacked: (2:109, 0:190, 0:110) Damaged: (1:109, 0:190, 0:110) Destroyed: (0:109, 0:190, 0:110)
Special Note: C Lefler: PH, Distinguished Flying Cross for Bomb Run J Lindsay: PH
Mission Description: Filed by Captain WW Robinson, pilot commanding
Van Dorn (who has already picked up the unfortunate nickname of Lt. VD) and I came back from the briefing to our new crew waiting to meet us. They had gotten to the tarmac early and the Pride of the Badgers looked ready for her first combat mission.
"Gentlemen, today it’s a fairly short trip across the Adriatic to bomb an airfield in Yugoslavia and back. There are a lot of very green pilots out there so we will be riding up front today. Keep your eyes open for extra fighters coming at us from 12 o’clock.”
We took off without incident and spent a long time flying around the field waiting for the squadrons to form up. New mission jitters I suppose. Tomorrow we will be practicing taking off and getting into formation rapidly.
The outbound flight was quiet until we arrived in the target zone. As we approached the target, we were attacked by a single 109. We got a piece of him and he went scurrying away.
We saw almost no flak. Lefler set a good example for the group and put all the bombs on target. I have put him in for the squadron’s first Distinguished Flying Cross.
We made our turn for home and were attacked by another single 109. He caused minor damage on his first pass from 12 o’clock and then came back at us from 9 o’clock. He riddled the plane with walking hits. Lefter was hit and so was Lindsay. Lewis patched up Lindsay for the flight home.
We landed safely and Lefler and Lindsay were taken off to the hospital. Everyone thought Lindsay was going to be ok. We all visited him in the hospital and he seemed in good spirits and on the mend. All the sudden he took a turn for the worse and died. I had rather hoped I would not have to start writing those letters so quickly.
|
|
|
Post by Huggies on Jul 23, 2023 12:11:25 GMT -8
Are there fighter cards and rules specifically for Yugoslavia? I'd like to partake.
|
|
|
Post by wolverinetoddy on Jul 23, 2023 12:35:40 GMT -8
B-17 Name: Pride of the Buckeyes (1) Crew Commander: 1st Lt. SS Carrol Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Formation: Middle Position: Middle
Mission Date: 7 Jan 44 Mission #: 1 Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome
Position: Name (mission #) {Claims After} Status Pilot: 1st Lt. SS Carrol (1) {0} Co-Pilot: 2nd Lt. D Lewis (1) {0} Bombardier 2nd Lt. B Ogle (1) {0} PH Navigator: 2nd Lt. D Troxel (1) {0} Engineer: MSgt. H Langdon (1) {1} Ball Gunner: Sgt. H Huffman (1) {0} Radio Oper.: Sgt. C Thompson (1) {0} Pt Waist G: Sgt. V Cromwell (1) {0} Stbd Waist G: Sgt. AD West (1) {0} Tail Gunner: Sgt. W Ingersoll (1) {1}
Bomb Percentage: 5%
Bomber Disposition: Tail Turret, Port Wing Root, Superficial Damage (58 Peckham Points)
Casualties: B Ogle: KIA
Claims (BY TYPE): Attacked: (0:109, 2:190, 0:110) Damaged: (0:109, 0:190, 0:110) Destroyed: (0:109, 2:190, 0:110) H Langdon: 190 W Ingersoll: 190
Special Note: B Ogle: PH
Mission Description: Filed by 1st Lt. SS Carol, pilot commanding Lewis and I came back from the briefing and looked at our crew. This was the first combat mission for all of them and they looked nervous. One was chewing gum like was going out of style, a couple were praying. A good leader would have a stirring speech for them.
I said: “Remember your training, be careful, and take care of each other.”
We took off and spent a lot of time flying back and forth trying to get into formation. Thompson says that he thinks he heard Capt. Robinson swearing over the open radio at one point. We finally settled into formation and headed out across the sea. The outbound flight was quiet until we arrived in the target zone.
We were jumped by a pair of 190s from the rear. Langdon, Ingersoll, and Thompson opened on them. On their first pass, Thompson hit one of them and Ingersoll knocked the other one down. The one we hit must have been mad because he unloaded on us with more bullets than we could count. When he finished is run, both wings had damage, the tail turret out, and Lt. Ogle was dead. The German came around for a second pass and Langdon made him pay for his decision.
Meanwhile the plane came over the target. Troxel saw Ogle slump over and scrambled forward to get the bombs dropped. He took one look at the Norden and shook his head. Instead, he looked out the window and pushed the toggle at the same time he saw bombs coming out of other planes. Somehow, he hit the target.
We turned for home and the Luftwaffe left us alone all the way back to Italy.
The crew and I stood at attention and saluted while the medics removed Lt. Ogle’s body from the plane.
|
|
|
Post by limburger59 on Jul 23, 2023 13:00:40 GMT -8
Are there fighter cards and rules specifically for Yugoslavia? I'd like to partake. There are rules for fighters from other Axis partners available at www.stevenkdixon.com/Adding%20More%20Enemy%20Fighters%20to%20Target%20for%20Today_revised.pdf . Steve also has artwork for these fighters on his website you can print, and actual counters can be purchased from Legion Wargames. Players of both QOTS and TFT can use them. I will mention in the mission Gazetteer when Italian, Hungarian, or Romanian fighters may appear as an option. There were none mentioned for Mission #1, but reading some AARs I guess that that some of those fighters must have been assigned to Mostar for advanced training. My pilot didn’t see any but he was focused on the German bandits.
|
|
|
Post by crushedhat on Jul 23, 2023 13:07:15 GMT -8
B24D: Laid Back Lady Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group MISSION DATE: 7 Jan 44 MISSION NBR. 1/This Bomber 1 TARGET: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome SECONDARY TARGET: POSITION: High Squadron, Lead
Crew Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills] Pilot: Paul Garfield, Capt, (1) [0] Co-Pilot: Elliott Peterson, 2LT, 22, (1) [0] Bombardier: Charles (Charlie) Martell, 2LT, (1) [0] Navigator: Bruce Ellison, 2LT, 27, (1) [0] Engineer: Michael Newton, TSgt, 20, (1) [0] Radio Operator: Daniel (Danny) Garson, Sgt, (1) [0] Ball Turret Gunner: Joseph (Joe) Blaston, Sgt, (1) [0] Port Waist Gunner: Peter Carson, Sgt, (1) [0] Starboard Waist Gunner: Donald Davila, Sgt, (1) [0] Tail Gunner: Douglas (Doug), Richard. Sgt, (1) [0] * = 1 Kill This Mission # = Shared Kill This Mission
Fighters Encountered: Fw 190 2=1 to P-47, 1 Undamaged (1 Green) Me 109 1=1 Damaged 3
Claims: Only credited kills reported here None
Bomb Run: Of Target, 0%
B-24 Damage: Instruments – Elevators: Mechanical Failure (10) Peckham Points: 10 Peckham Points, AC read 8 Jan44
Casualties: None
Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia
Awards/Promotion Requests: None
Sitting Out: None
In Hospital: None
Completed 25 Missions: None
After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“Hey, Captain, jeep’s here!” TSgt Michael Newton calls out to Capt Paul Garfield announcing the arrival of their ride to the deb
“Go on without me,” Garfield tells his crew. “I’ll walk. It'll help blow off my anger,” he thinks.
The news brings frowns to the faces of the men of Laid Ba Lady. If they have to wait for their AC before debriefing t means a long wait before they can get out of their flying gear and relax. Garfield doesn’t care.
“Serves ‘em right,” Garfield thinks, reflecting on how they all embarrassed him on today’s mission. “I’m the XO, and one of the few officers in this Squadron that’s made a career of the AAC. To completely miss the target!” But first, Garfield needs to have a few choice words with TSgt James Mason, Lady’s Crew Chief, about the ‘little problem’ with the elevator controls.
Takeoff and assembly went well, with exception of Stupid Dragon’s malfunction. It was a short flight, though we ran into trouble over the Adriatic (Zone 2) when the elevator controls went out. I have already had words with TSgt Mason about that issue.
The enemy showed up as promised as we neared the coast (Zone 3). We had to deal with a pair of Fw 190s. One actually, as the P-47s of the 325h chased one off. The other, an apparent rookie, dove past us so fast he couldn’t get an accurate shot. I won’t go into details about how miserably we did. There was also a lone Me 109 with whom we did marginally better. At least we hit him, though not enough to send him down in flames.
While others had their approach to the target (Zone 4) contested. No EA bothered us. The same with the Flak. Despite being unmolested on target ingress, 2LT Martell completely missed the target. We had no enemy encounters on target egress, or the rest of the flight back to Giulia.
The only damage sustained was the faulty elevator controls. The Lady should be ready to fly again tomorrow. If there isn’t a mission, the crew will be conducting drills.
Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding B24D Laid Back Lady 78th (H) Bomb Squadron
|
|
|
Post by campsawyer on Jul 23, 2023 16:35:13 GMT -8
Looks like we are off and flying. Checking with the 80th Squadron, but I don't see a Lead or a Tail plane yet, is that TBD still? Second, newbie question, do the rest of the planes get a position or are they just in the middle? Thanks in advance.
|
|
rhreiss
79th Bomber Squadron XO
Posts: 151
|
Post by rhreiss on Jul 23, 2023 16:45:42 GMT -8
Arkansas Traveler (Mission #1) Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome B-24D Arkansas Traveler (Mission #1)
Crew Commander: 1LT Floyd Speer Squadron: 78th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group Formation: Low Position: Middle TARGET: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome Crew Position | Rank | Name | Mission # | Prior Awards | Prior Kills
Awarded | Status | Pilot | 1LT | Floyd Speer | 1 |
|
| RFD | Co-Pilot
| 2LT | George McQuinn | 1 |
|
| RFD | Bombardier
| 2LT | Johnny Marcum | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Navigator | 2LT | Pat Tobin | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Engineer | S/SGT | Sam Harshaney | 1 | | | RFD | Radio Operator | S/SGT | John Whitehead | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Ball Gunner | SGT | Bill Trotter | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Left Waist | SGT | Harry Kimberlin | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Right Waist | SGT | Joe Glenn | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Tail Gunner | SGT | Dave Short | 1 |
|
| RFD
|
Crew Chief T/SGT Bob Patrick (Good) (skill +1) Bomb Percentage: on-target, 50% Bomber Disposition: Ready for duty ( crew did normal good job) Bomber Damage: none Peckham Points: none Casualties: none Landing: safe landing at Foggia Enemy Aircraft: Encountered: 5
| Bf-109 | Me-110 | Re-2005 | Fw-190 | Totals | Escort Intercept | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 3 | Undamaged |
|
|
|
|
| Damaged | 1 | 1 |
|
| 2 | Probable/Denied |
|
|
|
|
| Destroyed |
|
|
|
|
|
Claims: none Awards: none AARCrew was showing a mixture of nervousness and excitement for their first combat mission, but went about the permission activities and check list carefully. That included Lt McQuinn and myself but we took off and joined the formation without embarrassing ourselves. OUTBOUNDAs we approached the Yugoslavia we encountered Kraut fighter activity. First we encountered tw e110’s one was driven off by our little friends and the second attacked in a vertical climb SGT Trotter in the Ball Turret hit it’s right wing. The kraut missed us wide right and disappeared. Shortly after that out little friends chased off a Re2005, while a Me109 came in at 12/H S/SGT Harshaney in the top turret and Lt Marcum engaged it, hitting the fuselage. The kraut missed and broke off the attack. TARGET AREAAs we approached the IP a Me-109 started to engage but was driven off by our little friends. As predicted, there was light ineffective flak and Lt Marcum’s run was on target assessed as 50% effective. After the bomb release, we rejoined the formation at the RP INBOUND The flight back was uneventful with a safe landing at Foggia 1LT George Gill, Pilot Commanding B-24D Arkansas Traveler 78th BS, 509th BG (H), 8th AF
|
|
ChefEd
78th Bomber Squadron
Posts: 471
|
Post by ChefEd on Jul 23, 2023 16:55:15 GMT -8
Looks like we are off and flying. Checking with the 80th Squadron, but I don't see a Lead or a Tail plane yet, is that TBD still? Second, newbie question, do the rest of the planes get a position or are they just in the middle? Thanks in advance. If not assigned Lead or TEC, your A/C will be in the "middle". Good hunting..
|
|
|
Post by Huggies on Jul 23, 2023 18:29:29 GMT -8
B-17 Name: Lucky Lady Reporting Official: 1LT Hughes Squadron: 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group
Formation: Low Position: Middle
Mission Date: 7 Jan 44
Mission #: 1
Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia Target Type- Airdrome
Pilot: 1LT J. Hughes, 1st Mission Co-Pilot: 2LT N. Brennan- 1st Mission Bombardier: 2LT D. Shepherd- 1st Mission Navigator: 2LT K. Reese- 1st Mission Engineer: S/Sgt I. Clark- 1st Mission Radio: T/Sgt C. Hobbs- 1st Mission Ball Turret: Sgt A. Riley- 1st Mission Port Waist Gunner: Sgt K. Corwin- 1st Mission Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt L. Loud- 1st Mission Tail Gunner: S/Sgt D. Brewster
Bomb Run Percentage: 40% Bomber Status: Port Landing gear hit, brake out, some superficial damage Tail, superficial; Tailplane, no effect Starboard wing, superficial Flak hit radio room, superficial damage
Casualties:
None
Enemy Fighters Encountered: Outgoing 4xME-110 (1 damaged by Tail Gunner and Broke Off)
Incoming 4x FW-190 (1 damaged by Top Turret, continued to attack)
Award Recommendations: None
Mission After Action Report: Logged by John Hughes, Commanding Officer
After the Squadron Briefing, myself and Lt Brennan went back to the crew quarters to brief the crew. All were understandably nervous, as this was the very first mission for the entire crew. I went over mission specifics, and answered any questions that arose. When the crew had everything answered, we prepared for departure. Take-off and assembly went well, except for one of the planes having an engine burn out. It went slow, however, we will work on this for following missions. My bomber was assigned Low in the Squadron formation, and we were one of the middle bombers, linking our fields of fire with other bombers assigned there as well. Weather was good on take-off, and there were no issues with the aircraft. Our first taste of combat came over the Adriatic Sea when we were attacked by 4 ME-110s. Our fighters were a good distance away and assisting other crews, so we were on our own with these. The ME-110 at our 6 o'clock was easily held off by Sgt Brewster. The 110 took damage and broke off the attack, the others, unfortunately, were not hit by defensive fire and we were struck several times by cannon fire, damaging the landing gear brakes, and causing superficial damage along the tail surface and tailplane. Luckily, these aircraft broke engagement when they saw our fighters inbound, and they headed for the clouds. Once over the target area, we were met by anti-aircraft fire. Our bomber managed to squeeze through, only taking minor damage to the radio room. Luckily, no personnel or equipment was hit. Lt Shepherd was thrown of target slightly, and our ball turret confirmed only about 40% of our bombs struck the target area. Upon striking the target, we began our return to Foggia. We were once again met with enemy fighters, consisting of 4 FW-190s. Our escort was able to scare off 3 of the attackers, but Sgt Clark was on the ball with the top turret, striking one FW-190. The fighter was still able to continue the attack, but missed every shot and flew into the clouds. We continued on unimpeded only until hitting bad weather and poor visibility over Foggia. With the port side brakes out, landing was a little skittish, but we were able to get the bomber and crew back to solid ground safely and with minimal damage. Mission one was a complete success for the Lucky Lady.
1LT John Hughes, Pilot Commanding B-17F 'Lucky Lady' 80th BS, 509th BG (H), 8th AF
|
|
|
Post by limburger59 on Jul 23, 2023 20:56:12 GMT -8
Looks like we are off and flying. Checking with the 80th Squadron, but I don't see a Lead or a Tail plane yet, is that TBD still? Second, newbie question, do the rest of the planes get a position or are they just in the middle? Thanks in advance. If not assigned Lead or TEC, your A/C will be in the "middle". Good hunting.. ChefEd is correct. We ask players assigned the Tail or Lead to fly their missions as soon as possible, just in case something happens to force them to relinquish that role. If that happens then a player who hasn’t flown yet can volunteer to take over. If we assigned positions, then we could have a situation where the bomber expected to take over the Lead or Tail May have already flown and submitted their AAR. By having the balance of the Squadron as “middle” it allows more flexibility for remaining players to volunteer. (By the way, I have seen the Tail share that they were shot down, and posted in the Shout Box that I would take over the position, only to have my bomber shot down in an earlier zone. Oh well.)
|
|
|
Post by crushedhat on Jul 23, 2023 21:36:18 GMT -8
That's why I wait until I've gotten to at least the handoff point in my mission before I post taking over.
|
|
|
Post by randomcanadian on Jul 24, 2023 0:45:12 GMT -8
Plane: Express Delivery (B-17F-80BO 42-29988) MISSION DATE: 7 January 44 MISSION NBR. 1 TARGET: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome
Mission report Squadron: 79th A/C No: Express Delivery / 42-29988 Date: 07.01.1944
Pilot: 1LT John Harvey (1) Copilot: 2LT Omar Black (1) Bombardier: 2LT Ian Hall (1) Navigator: 2LT Beau Singer (1) Engineer: T/SGT John Early (1) Radio operator: T/SGT Andrew Hughes (1) Ball gunner: S/SGT Ralph Reed (1) Starboard waist gunner: S/SGT Arthur Payne (1) Port waist gunner: S/SGT Graham Brown (1) Tail gunner: SGT Gerald Hermann (1)
Ground crew chief: S/SGT Hans Rumsey (1)
Immediate news to be telephoned: none
Target attacked: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome
Weather over target: Cloudy on approach, clearing up after IP. Good visibility over target.
Result of bombing: 20%
Narrative: A milk run. No E/A encountered. Some light flak on approach to target but it seems partial cloud cover mostly impeded their aim as it was nowhere near us. Clouds cleared up to allow a good bomb run. All quiet on the way back, except for the rain and wind gusts which made landing only a little bit less comfortable.
Injuries to crew: none
Damage to aircraft: none
AAR SUMMARY Peckham: 0 Bomb run: 20% Aircraft encountered: none
|
|
|
Post by campsawyer on Jul 24, 2023 4:57:30 GMT -8
If not assigned Lead or TEC, your A/C will be in the "middle". Good hunting.. ChefEd is correct. We ask players assigned the Tail or Lead to fly their missions as soon as possible, just in case something happens to force them to relinquish that role. If that happens then a player who hasn’t flown yet can volunteer to take over. If we assigned positions, then we could have a situation where the bomber expected to take over the Lead or Tail May have already flown and submitted their AAR. By having the balance of the Squadron as “middle” it allows more flexibility for remaining players to volunteer. (By the way, I have seen the Tail share that they were shot down, and posted in the Shout Box that I would take over the position, only to have my bomber shot down in an earlier zone. Oh well.) Thanks for the clarification. Any update on the 80th Lead and Tail?
|
|
Sparhawk
80th Bomber Squadron
Posts: 332
|
Post by Sparhawk on Jul 24, 2023 6:18:21 GMT -8
Gentlemen of the 80th
I apologize for this late assignment. My flight from the states was delayed several times but I am pleased to note that now I have another daughter - Belle.
To more serious matters, Mighty Mouse with 1LT Aiden Wright will fly lead on this mission and Zig-Zag with 1LT Raymond Palmer will fly tail.
Fly well
|
|
|
Post by campsawyer on Jul 24, 2023 6:45:06 GMT -8
Gentlemen of the 80th I apologize for this late assignment. My flight from the states was delayed several times but I am pleased to note that now I have another daughter - Belle. To more serious matters, Mighty Mouse with 1LT Aiden Wright will fly lead on this mission and Zig-Zag with 1LT Raymond Palmer will fly tail. Fly well Congratulations on the new daughter.
|
|
rhreiss
79th Bomber Squadron XO
Posts: 151
|
Post by rhreiss on Jul 24, 2023 6:59:36 GMT -8
B-17F All In (Mission #1) Crew Commander: 1LT George Gill Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group Formation: middle Position: Middle TARGET: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome Crew Position | Rank | Name | Mission # | Prior Awards | Kills Awarded | Status | Pilot | 1LT | George Gill | 1 |
|
| RFD | Co-Pilot
| 2LT | 2LT Ed Cole | 1 |
|
| RFD | Bombardier
| 2LT | Louis “Buck” Newso | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Navigator | 2LT | 2LT Myril Hoag | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Engineer | S/SGT | Roy “Beau” Bell | 1 | | | RFD | Radio Operator | S/SGT | Vern Kennedy | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Ball Gunner | SGT | SGT Russ Van Atta | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Left Waist | SGT | Julius “Moose” Solters | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Right Waist | SGT | Alfred “Roxie” Lawson | 1 |
|
| RFD
| Tail Gunner | SGT | Ralph “Red” Kress | 1 |
|
| RFD
|
Crew Chief S/SGT Fred Johnson skill 0 Bomb Percentage: on-target, 50% Bomber Disposition: Ready for duty Bomber Damage: none Peckham Points: Crew Chief Pre Mission Report: No effects on today’s mission. Ground crew random events: Excellent work on the preparation for today’s mission. You have a Lucky Charm for this mission only. Post Mission Repairs: Good work on the maintenance after today’s mission. Landing: safe landing at Foggia Enemy Aircraft: Encountered: 1
| Bf-109 | Fw-190 | Me-110 | Unknown | Totals | Escort Intercept |
|
|
|
|
| Undamaged |
|
|
| 1 | 1 | Damaged |
|
|
|
|
| Probable/Denied |
|
|
|
|
| Destroyed |
|
|
|
|
|
Casualties: none Claims: none Awards: none AAR
For the first mission the crew and ground crew covered any first mission jitters by being extra meticulous in their preflight preparations. We took off and joined up with the formation without incident. OUTBOUNDnothing to report. TARGET AREAThere was light ineffective flak as we began our bomb run after the IP. LT Newsom was on target despite the cloud cover and assessed at 50% effectiveness. We joined up with the formation at the RP without incident. INBOUNDas we were passing from the Yugoslavian coast over the Adriatic an unknown aircraft lobbed rockets into the formation from our aft. There was one large burst near us that did no damage. Everyone was happy to get the first mission under our belts with no injuries or damage to our bomber. safe landing at Foggia 1LT George Gill, Pilot Commanding B-17F All In 79th BS, 509th BG (H), 8th AF
|
|
|
Post by limburger59 on Jul 24, 2023 10:59:22 GMT -8
B-17G: GREAT EXPECTATIONS: B-17F-75BO 42-18544 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Low Sqdn - Middle MISSION DATE: 7 JAN 44 MISSION # 1 (1st mission this bomber) TARGET: Mostar, Yugoslavia Bomb Run: Off Target - 0% CREWPosition | Rank | Name | Current Mission | Previous Kills | Claims Today
| Confirmed Today
| Status | Stress | Notes | Pilot | 1 LT
| Peter "Pip" Dickins
| 1
|
|
|
| RTD |
|
| Copilot | 2 LT
| Matthew Pocket
| 1
|
|
|
| RTD
| 1 |
| Bombardier | 2 LT | Abel Magwich
| 1
|
| |
| RTD
|
|
| Navigator | 2 LT | Clive Pumblechook
| 1
|
|
|
| RTD
| 1 |
| Engineer | S/SGT | Joe Gargery
| 1
|
|
|
| RTD
| 1 |
| Radioman | S/SGT | Luke Wopsle
| 1
|
|
|
| RTD
| 1 |
| Ball Gunner | SGT | Bentley Drummle
| 1
|
|
|
| RTD |
|
| PWG | SGT | Henry Hubble | 1
|
|
|
| RTD |
|
| SWG | SGT | John Wemmick
| 1
|
|
|
| RTD |
|
| Tail Gunner | SGT | Mick Jaggers
| 1
|
|
|
| RTD
|
|
|
Casualties: None
B-17 Damage: None
Peckham Points: None
Crew Chief: S/SGT Julian San Sebastian (Status: Average Joe)
B-17 Disposition: Safe at Giulia
Attackers: 2
| # | Claimed Destroyed
| Confirmed Destroyed
| Probable | Damaged | Run Off
| Bf-109 |
|
|
|
| |
| Bf-110 |
|
|
|
|
|
| FW-190 | 2 |
|
|
|
| 1 | Ju88 |
|
|
|
|
|
| ME-210 |
|
|
|
|
|
| ME-410 |
|
|
|
|
|
| TOTALS
| 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Award/Promotion Requests: None In Hospital: Everyone is flying AFTER ACTION REPORT (Target for Today - Joe Carter's Variant)
OUTBOUND: Nothing to Report TARGET ZONE 4: No bandits or Flak got close to us, yet the crew was on edge. The horror stories they stayed up last night listening to were on their minds. Bombs were off target. If the weather allows we definitely need more training flights. INBOUND – ZONE 3: A 190 flashed right over the cockpit, and my Co-pilot jumped out of his seat while my Engineer kept frantically firing his guns long after the Butcher Bird was out of range. Guess you don't know how a man will react until he sees the elephant. I have a copy of "The Red Badge of Courage" in my small library and I wonder if I need to recommend that Matthew and Joe read it. GIULIA: Safe landing.
|
|
|
Post by lcorreia48 on Jul 24, 2023 14:31:59 GMT -8
B-17G: Spirit of 98 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Low Sqdn - Middle MISSION DATE: 7 JAN 44 MISSION # 1 (1st mission this bomber) TARGET: Mostar, Yugoslavia Bomb Run: On Target - 40% CREWPosition | Rank | Name | Current Mission | Previous Kills | Confirmed Today
| Status | Stress | Notes | Pilot | 1 LT
| Mark McGwire
| 1
|
|
| RTD |
|
| Copilot | 2 LT
| Sammy Sosa
| 1
|
|
| RTD
|
|
| Bombardier | 2 LT | Ken Griffey Jr
| 1
|
|
| RTD
|
|
| Navigator | 2 LT | Tony Gwynn
| 1
|
| 1 | RTD
|
|
| Engineer | MSGT | John Olerud
| 1
|
| 1 | RTD
|
|
| Radioman | T/SGT | Ivan Rodriguez
| 1
|
|
| RTD
|
|
| Ball Gunner | SGT | Randy Johnson
| 1
|
|
| RTD |
|
| PWG | SGT | Pedro Martinez | 1
|
|
| RTD | 1 |
| SWG | SGT | Greg Maddux
| 1
|
|
| RTD |
|
| Tail Gunner | SGT | Roger Clemens
| 1
|
|
| RTD
|
|
|
Casualties: None
B-17 Damage: Superficial x2
Peckham Points: 2
Crew Chief: S/SGT Tony La Russa (Status: Average Joe)
B-17 Disposition: Safe at Giulia
Attackers: 13
| # | Confirmed Destroyed
| Probable | Damaged | Run Off
| Bf-109 | 8 | 1 |
| 1 | 1 | Bf-110 |
|
|
|
|
| FW-190 | 5 | 1 |
|
| 2 | Ju88 |
|
|
|
|
| ME-210 |
|
|
|
|
| ME-410 |
|
|
|
|
| TOTALS
| 13 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
Award/Promotion Requests: None In Hospital: Everyone is flying AFTER ACTION REPORT (QotS - Beery Variant)
OUTBOUND: Nothing to Report TARGET ZONE 4: Inbound we encountered five Bf-109s, one was driven off by fighter cover, one was shot down by MSG Olerud, we took some hits to our nose but all damage was superficial. Flak was a non-issue for us and we were able to deliver 40% of our bombs on the target. Outbound we were attacked by a Pair of FW-190s followed by another solo Bf-109, 2 LT Gwynn shot down one of the 190s and MSG Olerud damaged the 109 but we were unable to bring it down, we avoided all other damage. INBOUND – ZONE 3: We ran into a trio of FW-190s, two of which were driven off by fighter coverage, we exchanged shots with the remaining enemy but no damage was done to either side. GIULIA: Safe landing.
|
|
|
Post by wolverinetoddy on Jul 24, 2023 18:19:37 GMT -8
B-17 Name: Pride of the Wolverines (1) Crew Commander: 1st Lt. HR Morrow Squadron: 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Formation: Low Position: Middle
Mission Date: 7 Jan 44
Mission #: 1 Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome
Position: Name (mission #) {Claims After} Status Pilot: 1st Lt. HR Morrow (1) {0} Co-Pilot: 2nd Lt. H Whiting (1) {0} Bombardier: 2nd Lt. F Farland (1) {0} Navigator: 2nd Lt. M O’Donnell (1) {0} Engineer: MSgt. L Aldrich (1) {0} PH Ball Gunner: Sgt. A Blake (1) {0} PH Radio Oper.: Sgt. A Casterline (1) {0} Pt Waist G: Sgt. R Eldridge (1) {0} PH Stbd Waist G: Sgt. L Hall (1) {0} PH Tail Gunner: Sgt. M Laffin (1) {0}
Bomb Percentage: 5%
Bomber Disposition: Starboard Wing Root, Rudder, Port Elevator, Port Aileron, Radio, Top Turret, Tail Turret Superficial Damage (141 Peckham Points)
Casualties: L Aldrich: LW – overnight in hospital A Blake: LW – 2 days in hospital R Eldridge: PH – 3 days in hospital L Hall: PH – 3 days in hospital
Claims (BY TYPE): Attacked: (2:109, 3:190, 2:110) 4: 410 Damaged: (1:109, 2:190, 0:110) 2: 410 Destroyed: (0:109, 0:190, 0:110)
Special Note: L Aldrich: PH A Blake: PH R Eldridge: PH L Hall: PH
Mission Description: File by 1st Lt. HR Morrow
Whiting and I came back from the briefing and as usual the crew was full of questions. They wanted to know where we were going, why we were hitting this target, what the Germans had based there, what the strategic significance of the target was. . . We were almost late getting lined up to take off. Next time shorter briefing.
The outbound flight was quiet until we arrived in the target zone where we were greeted by a pair of 410s. They caused minor damage to the plane. Flak was almost nonexistent. Farland dropped a little early and we just clipped the target.
As we turned for home the Luftwaffe descended on us. Three of the dreaded butcher birds. We fought valiantly, but the birds started to carve us up like a Christmas turkey. They hit Aldrich, Blake, Eldridge, and Hall. The plane also took significant damage. They were followed by 2 more 410s and then a pair of 109s. By the time we were back out over the Adriatic we were shot up.
We landed safely and I received a one more attack from my crew chief who cut me apart for tearing apart his airplane. Luckily all four wounded men were not hit too badly. All of us and the Pride of the Wolverines will be back for the next mission.
|
|
kfan
79th Bomber Squadron
Posts: 13
|
Post by kfan on Jul 24, 2023 19:01:17 GMT -8
B-17F "Slammin' Sally" 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Commander: Major William James Mission Date: 7 JAN 44 Mission Number: 1 Bomber Mission: 1
Formation: Mid Position: Low
Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia Target Type: Aerodrome Bomb Run: On Target - 50%
Crew:Position | Rank and Names | Missions | Mission Kills | Total Kills | Awards | Status | Pilot | 1 LT Alan "Big Al" Schneider | 1 | 0 | 0
| None | OK | Co-Pilot | 2 LT Dennis Baxter | 1 | 0 | 0
| None | OK | Bombardier | 2 LT Lewis Walton | 1 | 0 | 0
| None | OK | Navigator | 2 LT Oscar Shepherd | 1 | 0 | 0
| None | OK | Engineer | S/SGT Bernard Mathews | 1 | 0 | 0
| None | OK | Radio Operator | T/SGT Nathaniel "Nate" Swenson | 1 | 0 | 0
| None | OK | Ball Gunner | S/SGT Garry Wyatt | 1 | 0 | 0
| None | OK | Port Waist | SGT Oscar Albright | 1 | 0 | 0
| None | OK | Starboard Waist | SGT Bob Hanna | 1 | 0 | 0 | None | OK
| Tail Gunner | SGT Lonnie Bishop | 1 | 0 | 0
| None
| OK
|
Enemies Encountered:Type | No. | Intercepted | Destroyed | Damaged | Ju88C-6 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Me-109 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
Damage: Fire in Engine #1 (malfunction) Peckham Points: 25 AAR (TfT used for mission)This was the maiden voyage for “Slammin’ Sally”. The crew was in good spirits but nervous as they walked to the bomber. There was a lot of good-natured ribbing and nervous laughter. 1st LT Schneider reminded the boys of their superior training and the importance of the liberation of Europe. They were calm and business like as they took their positions. Before they knew it, they were in the broken clouds over the Adriatic.
The outbound flight to the target was mostly uneventful and the fighter escorts easily handled the enemy fighters. As they approached the target, the flak was light, there was a break in the clouds, and Bombardier Walton got a good look at the target. There was a brief hesitation and the bomb doors opened to make an efficient delivery. Just after releasing the bombs the crew with visibility out of the port side held their breath as some rockets passed close to the B-17. Whew, no damage this time!
The return flight was copacetic, and the crew was settling-in when there was a minor explosion and a jolt to the aircraft. There were no enemies in sight but there were flames coming from Engine #1. Damn, a malfunction!!! The pilot made the necessary adjustments to hold her steady and cursed the ground crew as the flames dissipated.
The bomber landed safely in the soupy weather. The crew was headed back for a debriefing followed by some good Italian red and some carousing. It was well deserved after escaping a near miss rocket attack and the engine fire.
|
|
Keltos
Multiple Squadrons
Posts: 459
|
Post by Keltos on Jul 25, 2023 7:14:32 GMT -8
After-Action ReportB17F-100BO-42-30399 – “Irascible Girl”79th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group, 9th Air Force
Commander: 1st Lt. H. Simmons Mission Date: 7 January 1944 Mission Number: 1 Mission of this bomber: 1 Formation: Middle Position: Middle Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia Target Type: Airdrome Bomb Run: On Target - 30% CREWPosition | Rank - Name | Missions | Mission Kills | Total Kills | Awards | Status | Pilot | 1st Lt. Henry Simmons | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Co-Pilot | 2nd Lt. Jerry Taylor | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Bombardier | 2nd Lt. Matthew Mallard | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Navigator | 2nd Lt. Bruce Mullins | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Engineer | T/Sgt Tim Burkey | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Radio Operator | S/Sgt Paul Stewart | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Ball Gunner | Sgt Matthew Whalen | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Port Waist | Sgt George Buck | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Starboard Waist | Sgt Harvey McGinty | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD | Tail Gunner | Sgt Michael Bolden
| 1 | 0 | 0 |
| RFD |
Crew Chief: S/Sgr Richard Weiner (Average Joe) - 1 mission
E/A Encountered
Type | No. | Intercepted | Destroyed | Damaged | Fw-190 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Me-109 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Me-110 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Me-210 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Ju-88 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Total | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Claims: —Damage: —Peckham Points: 0 pts - overnight maintenance Casualties: —Awards: —
Lucky Ladies: 1AAR (flown with TFT)
Foggia Airbase: No issues encountered during take-off and assembly. Zone 2 Outbound: Nothing to report Zone 3 Outbound: (Random event: 1 Lucky Ladies gained) Zone 4 Outbound/Inbound (Target Zone): no GAF nor Flak damage reported in outbound leg. Average bomb run. No Flak in egress and a lone Me-109 was driven off by P47. Zone 3-2 Inbount: Nothing to report. Foggia Airbase: Landed safely. First mission was a milk run. -------------------------------------------------
1st Lt. Henry Simmons, USAAF Commanding B17F “Irascible Girl” 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
|
|
mpgutis
80th Bomber Squadron Commander
Posts: 316
|
Post by mpgutis on Jul 25, 2023 7:16:10 GMT -8
Mission date: 7 Jan 44 Target: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome Mission/Bomber: 1/1 B-17F Vampire Vamp 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group (H), 9th Air Force Formation: Low Squadron Position: Middle
Position: Name (Mission) (Kills) Awards Pilot: 1LT Edward Ross (1) (-) Co-Pilot: 2LT Jerry Cohen (1) (-) Bombardier: 2LT James Reilly (1) (0) Navigator: 2LT Russell Smith (1) (0) Engineer: TSG David Atkins (1) (0) Radio Operator: SGT Louis Marconi (1) (0) Ball Gunner: SGT Alan Michaelson (1) (0) Port Waist Gun: SGT Reese Simons (1) (0) Starboard Waist Gun: SGT Kenneth Sawatski (1) (0) Tail Gun: SGT Raymond Sills (1) (0)
Bombing: On target, 50%
Damage: None
Casualties: None
EA: Encountered/Claimed/Killed BF-109 1 / 0 / 0
AAR using TfT
We were expecting a tougher mission than it turned out to be. Starting as the Low Squadron got everyone's attention and the crew realized that this was for real.
Zones 2 - 3: Nothing to report.
Zone 4 (Target): Turning onto the IP, we saw the first enemy aircraft. A Bf-109 came at us at 12:00 Level but one of the escort fighters ran him off. Flak was light and missed us entirely. The bomb run was on target and Reilly managed to put 50% of the eggs into the basket.
Zone 4 (Inbound): There was no flak coming off the target nor were we attacked by any enemy fighters.
Zone 3 - 2: Nothing to report.
Landing was good despite the weather having closed in. One down, twenty-four to go.
1LT Edward Ross Aircraft Commander Vampire Vamp 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
|
|