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Post by limburger59 on May 15, 2023 20:54:16 GMT -8
to post 8 Dec 23 To unlock 10 Dec 23 Turn in AAR's no later than 30 Dec 23 Next mission to post 29 Dec 23
For Christmas the 509th traditionally has a 3-week turnaround for AARs. If that is too long between missions please consider checking out a Hanger Queen and a crew from the Spare Pools for another go at our first foray into Germany. Merry Christmas!
MISSION DATE: 22 Feb 44 MISSION # 11TARGET: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory Bombing Altitude: 20,000 feet Mission Brief: ALPS! and Germany Map: FORMATION:HIGH | 79th SQDN |
| MID | 80th SQDN |
| LOW | 78th SQDN | LEAD: | Irascible Girl
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| LEAD: | Wongo |
| LEAD: | Laid Babk Lady | TAIL: | In Like Flynn
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| TAIL: | Miss Holly |
| TAIL: | Black Maria |
WEATHER:
Takeoff: Good Target: Good Landing: Good GAZETTEER
See special rules for the ALPS. In Zones 6 through 8 Italian fighters may be encountered along the Luftwaffe. Both TFT and QOTS players may use - Table 5-3SB - found on Steve Dixon's website. Zone | Modifier (QotS) | Weather/Resistance (TfT) | Fighter Cover | 2 Adriatic Sea | X | Haze/None | Good | 3 Adriatic Sea | X | 50% Clouds/None | Good
| 4 Adriatic Sea
| X | Haze/Contrails/None
| Good
| 5 Adriatic Sea | -2 | 50% Clouds/Light
| Good
| 6 Adriatic Sea | X | Haze/Contrails/None | Good | 7 Adriatic Sea / Italy | -1 | Clear/Moderate | Good
| 8 Italy | 0 | Clear/Moderate | Good
| 9 ALPS [Austria] | X | 50% Clouds/None | Fair | 10 Germany | +1 | Clear/Heavy | Fair | 11 Germany | X | Clear/None | Fair | TARGET ZONE 12 Germany FLAK: Outbound: Heavy x3 Inbound: Light x1 | +1 | 50% Clouds/Contrails Heavy German Resistance Target: Slightly Obscured TFT: Bombing Manually
| Fair | 11 Germany | -1 | 50% Clouds/Contrails/Light
| Poor | 10 Germany | 0 | Clear/Moderate | Poor | 9 ALPS [Austria] | X | 50% Clouds/None | Poor
| 8 Italy | X | Clear/None
| Poor
| 7 Italy / Adriatic Sea | 0 | 50% Clouds/Moderate | Poor | 6 Adriatic Sea | -1 | 50% Clouds/Light | Poor
| 5 Adriatic Sea | -1 | 50% Clouds/Light
| Good | 4 Adriatic Sea | X | 100% Clouds/None | Good | 3 Adriatic Sea | X | 50% Clouds/None
| Good | 2 Adriatic Sea | -2 | 50% Clouds/Light
| Good |
Emergency Airfield: The Swiss border is 150 miles (3 zones) from Regensburg. If you need to divert there is no escort and you'll face Light resistance (QOTS -1 DM). Shot Down: > Over Water (if you didn't drown): Zone 5 or greater: roll a d6: 1-4 = captured, 5-6 = rescued by fishermen, passed on to Partisans, eventually returned to base and reassigned to the U.S. (You know too much about the Partisans.) Zones 2 to 4: you are rescued by the Royal Navy > Over Land = POW Calendar since last Mission:17 Feb 44 Mission 10 Anzio Beachhead - German Supply Dumps 18 Feb 44 Non-Operational Day 19 Feb 44 Training Flights 20 Feb 44 Training Flights 21 Feb 44 Non-Operational Day 22 Feb 44 Mission 11 Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory
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tomt1999
80 Bomber Squadron XO
Posts: 142
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Post by tomt1999 on Dec 8, 2023 13:45:11 GMT -8
80 BS FLIGHT POSITIONS
DeLozier, F - Miss Holly - TAIL Jackson, JR - Wongo - LEAD
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Post by andy254 on Dec 8, 2023 14:25:10 GMT -8
All the aircrews knew was that this was important given the time they were woken up. Having had a very early breakfast in the mess, they assembled in the briefing hall to find that the map board was covered with a tarpaulin. Secrecy being maintained until the last minute.
The general hubbub of gossiping, grumbling and groaning died down as the S2 & S3 entered the room, accompanied by SSGT Dewberry, their aide. Some joker, anonymous among all of the identical uniforms, muttered sotto voce "Look! The Three Stooges are in town", which caused some laughter. The S2 glanced blankly in that direction, then nodded almost imperceptibly to Dewberry. With one tug, the tarpaulin came off the map board. The scale of the map had changed, covering a larger part of Europe. The route in two different colours of yarn for ingress and egress was was one long line North to the target and another parallel line back.
Germany.
Nobody in the room was laughing now.
“A long one, and complex,” Maj Harlan Beech, the 509th S2 begins. Metro says weather will generally be cooperative. But, that means you’re going to be leaving contrails in the rarified air around the Alps. Yep,” Beech continues once the grumbling dies down. “You’re crossing the Alps today.”
“The Luftwaffe will probably pick you up as you fly East of San Marino.” SSgt Dewbury indicates the position on the big wall map. “Opposition will be light at first, but increased steadily the nearer you get to the target. Though you will get a break crossing the Alps.”
“Expect heavy resistance, both in the air, and from the gunners on the ground, once you’re in the target area. The flak should fall off considerably on target egress, though the number of bandits won’t. Expect the Luftwaffe to chase you back over the Adriatic at least as far as San Marino. After that, you’ll have a slight reprieve until nearing the front lines when you may encounter more fighters diverted form their ground support roll.”
“Your escort is going to be a mixed bag. P-38s from the 82nd FG will be your initial escort. They’ll fly with you to the target. However, the Lightning isn’t a very good high altitude fighter and their effectiveness may drop off once your cross the Alps.” Beech again pauses to let the aircrews express their discontent.
“On the way back, the 82nd will hand you over to the 325th near San Marino. The Jugs will see you the rest of the way home.”
“If you run into trouble, there are no good places to put down. If on the north side of the Alps, you can try for neutral Switzerland.” SSgt Dewbury indicates the location. Bear in mind, you won’t have any escort and will likely face enemy fighters. Should you make there, you will be interned for the duration of the war. Least you think that sounds good, reports are that the Swiss authorities are being none too gentle with American bomber crews,” the S2 cautions.
“This side of the Alps, you could try for Yugoslavia (OOC - 1 extra turn for Zones 9-5, add an additional zone each for Zones 4 & 3). Again, you won’t have any escort and you can expect the Luftwaffe to be waiting for you over Yugoslavia (OOC – Light Resistance in the last turn). But, if you can link up with the Partisans, you may return to continue the fight. Review the procedure for dealing with Yugoslav Resistance.” (OOC - See Rules/Optional Rules/Optional Rules Index/Bailing Out and Escaping Capture).
“If you end up in the drink, the Royal Navy will be on Lifeguard duty to just south of San Marino. Further North, hope you’re picked up by sympathetic fishermen. If not, remember the Fighting Man’s Code and the requirements of the Geneva Convention.”
“Good luck.” With that Maj beech turns the podium over to the S3.
Major Stockwell does not hesitate before beginning his part of the briefing.
"Regensburg is one of the major centres of the Nazi War Machine. This is a major bombing offensive to cripple the Nazis. Prufenberg is a factory that builds Messerschmitt single-engined fighters. Taking it out of operation means that their supply line is interrupted to replace those that are shot down or otherwise put out of commission.
"You will have heard the horror story that was the Schweinfurt Raid to the same area last year. Things have changed since then. The quality of the B-17s & B-24s has improved. Also, escort fighters can penetrate deeper into enemy airspace and defend you longer than they were able to last year.
"As well as better equipped Little Friends, you have experience. If you don't have that and have just joined us, you will have the latest in USAAF Training. You may be in at the deep end but will know any combat mission, no matter how long, is a matter of 'rinse and repeat'. The only difference is how many times you have to follow that routine before you get home. Focus on the task, the mission will pass quickly, and you'll be back here downing a well-deserved beer in the bar.
"Regarding the specifics of this mission, this is a message to the pilots among you. Discretion is the better part of valor. I do not want to hear of our planes crashing into the side of an Alp because you cannot gain the altitude. Knowing you can rise to the desired altitude rather than just being a have-a-go hero is what I prefer. Aborting or diverting is better than losing your plane, your life and those of your crew.
He paused for a moment.
"This mission is very important to the war effort both on this front and the second front opening later this year. Throughout the 15th Air Force in halls and tents like this, other groups will be being briefed about their specific targets in the Regensburg area. I know that you will play your part, do your very best and find a time for merriment following your return.
"Good luck to you all"
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Post by superbee on Dec 9, 2023 8:58:17 GMT -8
79th Bomb Squadron - Mission Formation Assignments Mission #11: Regensburg, Germany (Aircraft factory) Lead bomber: Irascible Girl tail end Charlie: In Like Flynn
The 79th is the "high" squadron this mission. Good luck !
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Post by crushedhat on Dec 9, 2023 9:48:38 GMT -8
For the 78th, for Mission 11 Lead: Laid Back Lady (crushedhat) Tail: Black Maria (kageyone) Garfield, Paul, Cpt, USAAF, XO, 78th (H) Bomb Squadron (OOC - if assigned Lead or Tail, please submit your mission early incase someone else needs to take over those positions.)
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mpgutis
80th Bomber Squadron Commander
Posts: 316
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Post by mpgutis on Dec 10, 2023 8:02:45 GMT -8
Mission date: 22 February 44 Target: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory Mission/Bomber: 11/6 B-17G The Cat's Meow 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group (H), 15th Air Force Formation: Middle Squadron Position: Middle
Position: Name (Mission) (Kills) Awards Pilot: 1LT Walter Kowalski (6) (-) AM Co-Pilot: 2LT John Moran (6) (-) AM Bombardier: 2LT Edward Roberts (6) (0) AM Navigator: 2LT Mark Cohen (5) (1) AM (0.5) Engineer: SSG Jason Rodman (6) (1.83) AM Radio Operator: SGT Louis Franz (1) (0) Ball Gunner: SGT Kenneth Lewis (6) (0.66) AM Port Waist Gun: SGT Luigi Roselli (6) (0) AM Starboard Waist Gun: SGT Angel Ramirez (6) (0) AM Tail Gun: SGT Lee Kinnison (6) (0.66) PH, AN
Bombing: On target, 40%
Damage: 38 Peckham Points - Repair overnight Starboard Wing Root (1 hit) Superficial Hits (x3): Fuselage (x3) Flaps
Casualties: None
Awards: None
EA: Encountered/Claimed/Killed (23) FW-190 15 / 1 / 1 Me-210 2 / 0 / 0 Me-110: 2 / 0 / 0 Re.2005: 1 / 1 / 1 C.205: 1 / 0 / 0 Ju-88: 1 / 1 / 0.5 G.55: 1 / 0 / 0
AAR using TfT
Regensburg. We had all heard the tales of horror about the two missions the 8th Air Force had flown against Schweinfurt and Regensburg. To say the least, the target had the attention of the entire crew, even our new Radio Operator. Once again, the weather on takeoff was good as was the forecast weather for the target and landing. Takeoff went remarkably well considering the weight of the aircraft.
Zones 2 - 6: Nothing to report.
Zone 7: Two waves of enemy aircraft attacked and all were intercepted by the Little Friends. The first wave was there FW-190s at 3:00 Low and 12:00 High and Level. The second wave was a pair of Me-210s at 12:00 High and 1:30 High.
Zone 8: The more FW-190s attacked at 3:00 High, 9:00 High and 12:00 High but the escorts took care of them.
Zone 9: Nothing to report.
Zone 10: We were hit by two more waves of enemy aircraft. The first wave was four FW-190s. Three at 12:00 Level, 3:00 Low, and 9:00 High were intercepted but one at 1:30 Level hit the Starboard Wing Root and got a Superficial Hit on the fuselage. He came around at 12:00 Level but was headed off by a Little Friend. The second wave was a pair of Me-110s at 6:00 Level and 9:00 Low and a C.205 at 12:00 High were all intercepted.
Zone 11: Nothing to report.
Zone 12 (Target): At the IP we noticed a B-17 shadowing the formation, probably a Luftwaffe-piloted aircraft. We took a Superficial Hit to the Fuselage from the flak. Weather over the target was relatively decent and the drop was on target with 40% falling into the box.
Zone 12 (Inbound): Flak moderated considerably and missed us. A pair of FW-190s attacked at 10:30 High and 3:00 Level. The Top Turret and Navigator claimed a kil on the first one and the escorts got the second.
Zone 11: A Ju-88 at 6:00 Low and a G.55 T 6:00 High attacked. The Ball Turret and Tail Gunner claimed a kill on the Ju-88 and the escorts took care of the other.
Zones 10 - 8: Nothing to report.
Zone 7: An FW-190 at 3:00 Low was damaged, got a Superficial Hit on the Fuselage then broke off. An Re.2005 at 3:00 High was claimed as a kill by the Top Turret. We noticed either the same or another B-17 shadowing the formation.
Zone 6: A pair of FW-190s at 12:00 High and Level both made a pass, missed, and broke off.
Zone 5: Nothing to report.
Zone 4: Prior to the approach, I cycled the flaps and discovered that they were not working.
Zones 3 - 2: Nothing to report.
The approach was the final pucker factor of the mission. Without flaps we were coming in hot and we just barely managed to brake the aircraft sufficiently to avoid running off the end of the runway.
1LT Walter Kowalski, Pilot The Cat's Meow 80th Bombardment Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group (H), 15th Air Force
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Post by crushedhat on Dec 10, 2023 9:01:02 GMT -8
B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS LLS Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group MISSION DATE: 22 Feb 44 MISSION NBR. 11/This Bomber 11 TARGET: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory SECONDARY TARGET: POSITION: Low Squadron, Lead
Crew Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills] Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (11) [0] LC Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (11) [0] LC Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (11) [2] LC *### Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (11) [2 1/6] LC # Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (11) [12 2/3] LC **#### Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (11) [0] LC Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (11) [9 1/3] LC ## Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (11) [2 1/3] LC LW – RTD 23 Feb 44 Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (5) [1/2] Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (11) [6 5/6] LC *## * = 1 Kill This Mission # = Shared Kill This Mission
Fighters Encountered: Fw 190 12=3 Damaged, 6 to P-38, 2 to P-47, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace) Me 109 17=8 KIA, 1 Damaged, 6 to P-38, 1 to P-47, 1 Undamaged (5 ace, 3 Green) Me 110 3=2 KIA, 1 to P-38 Ju 88 2=2 to P-38 34
Claims: Only credited kills reported here Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell: ½ Me 109, 1/3 Me 110 Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison: Me 109 Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: 3 Me 109, ½ Me 110 Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: Me 110, ½ Me 109 Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard: <e 110, Me 109
Bomb Run: On Target, 30%
B-24 Damage: Superficial x5 (10), LW x1 (5), Nose Wheel (25), O2 System: Mechanical Failure (10) Peckham Points: 50 Peckham Points, AC ready 24 Feb 44.
Casualties: Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (11) [2 1/3] LC LW – RTD 23 Feb 44
Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia
Awards/Promotion Requests: Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: Air Medal 3rd OLC for achieving confirmed Double Ace status Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: Air Medal 2nd OLC for achieving confirmed Ace status Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: Purple Hear 1st OLC Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle: Air Medal Sitting Out: None
In Hospital: None
Completed 25 Missions: None
After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“I’m hit! I’m hit!” Sgt Peter Carson cries out, his hand going to his head. Pulling it away, his glove is covered in blood and he can feel more of the warm liquid running down his cold forehead. “I’m Done for!”
Turning to face his mate in the waist, Sgt John Ringle says, “It’s just a graze. You’ll live.”
“But all the blood,” Carson protests, though he admits he doesn’t exactly feel like he’s at death’s door.
“Head wounds always bleed excessively,” Ringle reassures Carson.
Realizing he’s not about to drop, Carson feels a bit sheepish about his outburst. “You’re right. Lets get some Krauts,” he says, hoping his show of bravado makes up for his earlier panic.
Takeoff and assembly went well and we took up our position as lead bomber of the low squadron. Despite the warning of possible earlier engagement by the Luftwaffe, our first encounter with EA was as we crossed the Italian coast (Zone 7). A pair of FWs and an Me 109 bore in us only to get tangled up with the Lightnings of the 82nd instead.
Heading further inland (Zone 8) things got more intense, two waves of enemy fighters challenging our progress. The first wave consisted of three twin-engine Me 110s and another 109. Two bandits fell to the P-38s, and we shot down the other two. Having ben drawn off by the first wave, there were fewer Little Friends to help with the second wave. The Lightnings chased off one FW, leaving three more, and a 109, for us to deal with. We hit all four, flaming one And sending another off trailing thick oily smoke.
We went over the Alps (Zone 9) and then into Germany itself (Zone 10). It was briefed that the Lightnings would have problems past the Alps, but you couldn’t prove it by me. They drove off the two attacking EA in the first wave, a Ju 88 and an Me 109, although we did have the unnerving experience of being bombed ourselves. The P-38s engaged a 109 in the second wave, leaving u S to contend with an FW diving on us. While neither side hit, TSgt Newton said he though the 190’s tail was decorated with kill marks. The third wave was a repeat of the first except that this time we downed the 109. Once again the bombs missed us.
There was brief lull (Zone 11) and then it was on to the target (Zone 12). We faced surprisingly little opposition on target ingress, a pair of Me 109s. Guess Jerry must have been busy harassing other bombers. The boys from the 82nd claimed one kill and we got the other. Flak was heavy and we took some minor damage, but came through OK overall. 2LT Martell out about a third of our bombs on target.
Flak on target egress was minimal, but coming out of it we ran into the proverbial hornet’s nest. We were greeted by three 190s and a 109. The P-38s chased off three and we flamed the fourth. Despite all the bandits, it seemed Jerry was having a hard time coordinating his efforts (OOC – Random Event: Bad Luftwaffe Comms). The last, but most effective wave, had five 109s, including an ace. While we ended up claiming tow kills, Jerry got his licks in too. I’m told Sgt Carson had quite the injury, at least to his pride (OOC – used a LC to reroll a KIA toa LW). And, as we learned on landing, the nose wheel was also damaged. Heading back home (Zone 11) we saw some EA forming up, but none bothered us.
As we approached the Italian coast we once more found ourselves being bombed. Thankfully Jerry’s aim was worse than our and we took no damage. Over the Adriatic (Zone 6) we encountered a pair of Me 109s. By now the 82nd was starting to show the stain and we had to contend with the bandits ourselves, flaming both. Shortly afterward (Zone 5) the 82nd handed us over to the 325th. The Jugs got their chance as we passed near the Front Line trace, the P-47s downing two FWs and a 109.
As we began our landing approach (Zone 1) TSgt Newton reported that the O2 system was on the fritz. At least till waited till we didn’t need it. Upon landing, we learned about the damaged nose wheel, though it didn’t create too much of a problem. More an issue for TSgt Mason as he says it’ll add a day to repair time. Lady should be ready by the 24th. As for Sgt Carson’s injury, Doc put in a few stitches and returned him to flying duty. Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding B24D Laid Back Lady 78th (H) Bomb Squadron
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Post by kageyone on Dec 10, 2023 22:19:31 GMT -8
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Keltos
Multiple Squadrons
Posts: 459
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Post by Keltos on Dec 11, 2023 8:28:17 GMT -8
After-Action ReportB-17F-100BO 42-30399 – “Irascible Girl”79th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group, 9th Air Force
Commander: 1st Lt. H. Simmons Mission Date: 22 February 1944 Mission Number: 11 Mission of this bomber: 11 Formation: High Position: Lead Target: Regensburg, Germany Target Type: Prufening Aircraft Factory Bomb Run: On Target - 30% CREWPosition | Rank - Name | Missions | Mission Kills | Total Kills | Awards | Status | Stress Point | Pilot | 1st Lt. Henry Simmons | 11 | 0 | 0 | AM+ | RTD | 1 | Co-Pilot | 2nd Lt. Jerry Taylor
| 11 | 0 | 0 | AM+/ PH | SW-IH | 1 | Bombardier | 2nd Lt. Matthew Mallard
| 9 | 0 | .0 | AM / PH | KIA | 0 | Navigator | 2nd Lt. Edwin Leblanc | 3 | .5 | 1.5 |
| RTD | 0 | Engineer | T/Sgt Tim Burkey | 11 | 1 | 6 | AM+ / DFC | RTD | 2 | Radio Op. | S/Sgt Paul Stewart | 11 | 0 | 0 | AM+ / PH+ | LW | 2 | Ball Gunner | Sgt Matthew Whalen
| 11 | 0 | 3.83 | AM+ | RTD
| 0 | Port WG | Sgt George Buck
| 11 | 1 | 2 | AM+ | RTD
| 0 | Starboard WG | S/Sgt Harvey McGinty
| 11 | 0 | 0 | AM+ | RTD | 0 | Tail Gunner | S/Sgt Mark Withley
| 5 | 0 | 0 | AM | RTD
| 0 |
Crew Chief: S/Sgr Richard Weiner promoted to T/Sgt (the Dedicated) - 11 missions
E/A Encountered
Type | No. | Intercepted | Destroyed | Damaged | Fw-190 | 17 | 5 | 3 | 7 | Me-109 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 0 | Me-210/Me-410 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 0 | C-205 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | Ju-88 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Total | 31 | 13 | 5 | 8 |
Claims:- 2nd Lt E. Leblanc- 1 Fw-190 claimed - half credit awarded - T/Sgt T. Burkey - 1 Fw-190 claimed - half credit awarded - T/Sgt T. Burkey - 1 Fw-190 claimed - half credit awarded - Sgt G. Buck - 1 Me-109 claimed - full credit awarded - Sgt G. Buck - 1 Me-109 claimed - no credit awarded - Sgt M. Whalen - 1 Fw-190 claimed - no credit awarded - S/Sgt H. McGinty - 1 Fw-190 claimed - no credit awarded Damage:
- Superficial x12: 12 - Navigator & Bombardier Heat systems out: 20 - Rubber Rafts damaged: 10 - KIA x1: 10 - SW x1: 5 - LW x1: 2 Peckham Points: 59pts - overnight repairing Casualties:
- 2nd Lt M. Mallard KIA - head shot - 2nd Lt. J. Taylor SW-IH after surgery: inflamed intestines - S/Sgt P. Stewart LW: abdomen cut 2 days in hospital (RTD on 25 February 1944) Awards:- AM: S/Sgt Mark Withley - PH: 2nd Lt. J. Taylor, S/Sgt P. Stewart - PH posthumous: 2nd Lt M. Mallard Promotions:--AAR (flown with TFT)
Giulia Airbase: Good weather. Take off and assembly were ok Zone 2-6 Outbound: Nothing to report. Z one 7 Outbound: Attacked by a first wave composed by 2 Me-109 and 1 Me-210; all were driven off by escort fighters. A second wave formed up by 3 Fw-190: 2 of them were driven off by escort while last one was damaged and preferred to go away. Zone 8 Outbound: 2 Fw-190 and 1 ANR Me-109 attacked us. Fw-190 at 12H was destroyed while others planes were driven off. Zone 9 Outbound: I was impressed by the beautiful landscape of the snow-capped Alps. Despite the war, there is still something that manages to excite. Zone 10 Outbound: A Me-109 attacked us at 12 level and caused us some superficial damage and our shots dameged his right wing, on his second round he was destroyed by our Left Waist gunner. A Me-109 at 1.30Lev was driven off while a Me-109 from 12H moved away causing no damage. A second wave of 2 Fw-190 was managed by our gunners: on of them was heavily damaged and preferred to escape while the second one was destroyed. Zone 11 Outbound: Nothing to report. Zone 12 Outbound/Inbound (Target Zone): German bombs dropped from above exploded as soon as we netered target zone, we had some "rock&roll" but no damage reported. A lone Ju-88 from 6H avoided our shots and hit us causing some minor damage but bombardier 2nd Lt Mallard wass KIA with a direct head shot, while 2nd Lt Taylor suffered a SW to the abdomen. On the second pass there was no damage on either side 2nd Lt. Leblanc moved the body of the bombardier to its position taking the place at the N/E bombsight, while the S/Sgt Stewart gave first aid to the wounded co-pilot and carried him to the radio room: he was covered and injected with a dose of morphine, fortunately the bleeding seemed to stop. As we approached the target, the Flak became violent and precise, but no shrapnels reached us. The navigator 2nd Lt Leblanc executed the bomb dropping with mastery, obtaining a sufficient result. Flak again, this time light and no damage were reported. As we moved away from the target, we were attacked by 4 Fw-190s: two of them were intercepted by the escort fighters, one was shot down while the fourth avoided our shots and damaged the heat system of the nose compartment, on its second pass it was damaged and preferred to move away. Suddenly a lone Ju-88 attacked us but our escort kept a good watch and intercepted him. Navigator moved to radio room to avoid frostbyte. Zone 10 Inbound: Attacked by a wave of 4 Fw-190: all of them preferred to move away after being damaged. After, a wave of 2 Fw-190 and 1 Me-410: we had just some superficial damage and 1 Fw-190 and the Me-410 preferred to attack other bombers; last Fw-190 hit us on second pass causing superficial damages and light wound to S/Sgt Stewart. Zone 9-7 Inbound: Nothing to report Zone 6 Inbound: Attacked by a Me-109 and an italian C-205 "Veltro". German fighter was hit and destroyed by our shots while the italian fighter preferred to fly away after being damaged. Zone 5 Inbound: A pair of Me-410s attempted to approach but were intercepted by escort fighters. Zone 4-2 Inbound: Nothing to report. Giulia Airbase: Flares launched to request ambulance on runway. Landed safely. It was a long and hard mission. We lost two crew members 2nd Lt Mallard and 2nd Lt Taylor (he survived the surgery but he has to pass three months in the hospital, after thsi period he'll probably repatriated to the US as he is no longer fit to operate as a bomber crew.
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Henry Simmons, 1st Lt, USAAF, Commanding Commanding B-17F: Irascible Girl B-17F-100BO 42-30399 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
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tomt1999
80 Bomber Squadron XO
Posts: 142
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Post by tomt1999 on Dec 11, 2023 11:24:13 GMT -8
Mission Date: Feb 22, 1944 Target: Regensburg Germany aircraft factory Mission/Bomber: 11 / 9 80th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy) "Miss Holly" Formation: Middle Position: Tail
Captain FRANK DELOZIER - Pilot - Missions:9 Awards: AM 2nd Lt PERCY JOHNSON - Co-Pilot - Missions:9 Awards: AM PH 2nd Lt RICHARD "Woody" WOOD - Bombardier - Missions:9 Awards: AM 2nd Lt HAMPTON "Hamp" RAWLINGS - Navigator - Missions:9 Awards: AM T/Sgt SAMUEL BATEMAN - Engineer - Missions:9 Awards: AM S/Sgt JOSE "Loco" AZZUCO - Radio Op - Missions:9 Awards: AM Sgt EMILIO "Emmy" CANTOLO - Ball Gunner - Missions:9 Awards: AM Sgt HAL CARTER - Port Waist - Missions:9 Awards: AM Sgt HERBERT "H.R." RAYMOND - Starb Waist - Missions:9 Awards: AM Sgt CHARLES "Eddy" EDWARDS III - Tail Gunner - Missions:9 Awards: AM
Bombing ON target 30%
Damage 10
Casualtes NONE
Awards NONE
EA 5x 109 - 1 damaged; 2 driven off by escort; 2 DESTROYED 5x 190 - 1 damaged, 3 driven off, 1 DESTROYED 2x 110 - 1 DESTROYED, 1 driven off
4 e a/c DESTROYED
AAR ========== Outbound was smooth sailing until after we crossed the Alps (in good order).
An hour out from the target two 109s found us. We damaged one and they both missed us.
The target zone was busy with friendly and enemy a/c and lots of flak. Three 109s wanted to tangle, but we gave as good as we got with one driven off by the P-38s, one damaged and one destroyed by Bateman in the top turret.
We took a hit to the starboard flaps from flak, but it did not hamper our bomb run which was on target with about 30% in the box.
Inbound flak missed us entirely, but two waves of fighters (7 fighters in all) did not miss us. It was hot for a short while, but we got the upper hand eventually, with 2 destroyed: Me 110 tail gunner Eddy Edwards, FW 190 by ball gunner "Emmy" Cantolo. 4 other e a/c were driven off by our little friends.
We weren't to the Alps yet, but it got extremely cold. Edwards reported his tail guns froze up and we were without their help for the rest of the mission. Eddy stayed in the tail as a lookout.
Just before the Alps, two 109s came in on us. One was destroyed by waist gunner Carter. The other one got through to us, but fired wide. Everyone got a good look at the Alps on the way back.
From there back to Guilia was uneventful and the landing was nominal.
DELOZIER
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Post by limburger59 on Dec 11, 2023 13:36:39 GMT -8
B-17G: GREAT EXPECTATIONS: B-17F-75BO 42-18544 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group High Sqdn - Middle MISSION DATE: 22 FEB 44 MISSION # 11 (10th mission this bomber) TARGET: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factor Bomb Run: On Target 40% CREWPosition | Rank | Name | Current Mission | Previous Kills | Claims Today
| Confirmed Today
| Status | Stress | Notes | Pilot | 1 LT
| Peter "Pip" Dickins
| 10
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| Copilot | 2 LT
| Matthew Pocket
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| Bombardier | 2 LT | Jack Dawkins
| 5
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| Navigator | 2 LT | Curt Clark
| 6
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| RTD
| 1 |
| Engineer | S/SGT | Mike Dixon
| 7
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| 1 |
| Radioman | S/SGT | Luke Wopsle
| 9
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| 3 |
| Ball Gunner | SGT | Bentley Drummle
| 10
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| PWG | SGT | Henry Hubble | 9
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| RTD | 1 |
| SWG | SGT | John Wemmick
| 10
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| Tail Gunner | SGT | Dave Donners
| 8
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| 1 |
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Casualties: 2LT Curt Clark - suffered minor anoxia over Germany - fully recovered
B-17 Damage: Superficial x1 (1)
Peckham Points: 1
Crew Chief: S/SGT Julian San Sebastian (Status: Moves from Average Joe to Dedicated with a +1 to repairs)
B-17 Disposition: Safe at Giulia
Attackers: 3
| # | Claimed Destroyed
| Confirmed Destroyed
| Probable | Damaged | Run Off
| Bf-109 | 2 |
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| | 2 | Bf-110 | 0 |
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| FW-190 | 1 |
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| 1 | Ju88 | 0 |
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| C205 | 0 |
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| Re2005 | 0 |
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| TOTALS
| 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
Award/Promotion Requests: Air Medal for 5 Completed Missions: 2LT Jack Dawkins Air Medal - first oak leak cluster for 10 Completed Missions: 1LT Peter "Pip" Dickins, 2LT Matthew Pocket, SGT Bentley Drummle, SGT John Wemmick Promotion rolls = no promotions for Drummle or WemmickIn Hospital/Not Flying Today: Everyone on Full Duty AFTER ACTION REPORT (Target for Today - Joe Carter's Variant)
We were surprised by the lack of action on this long, contested mission. Hidden away in the middle of the middle squadron has its benefits.
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GaryK
79th Bomber Squadron
Posts: 236
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Post by GaryK on Dec 11, 2023 16:03:31 GMT -8
After Action report: (using TfT) (Optional rules: Crew-chief effects; Crew Stress; Jasta 6 German Pilot Quality; Peckham’s Random Event Variant Table; Axis Aircraft 1942-45).
A bit of a break after the short run to Anzio was followed by our longest mission to date – and probably the most dangerous – as we take our first foray into Germany.
The date of the mission allowed Dale Stafford to rejoin us, and the short break has also seen an improvement in Perez’s attitude.
There was initial silence when the mission map was uncovered, followed by groans and whispering. Maj. Stockwell’s speech, however, clearly pointed out how important this trip was to the overall strategic plan. Also, many of the guys here have relatives pounding their way up Italy on foot, so we should maybe count our blessings that we, at least, have a chance of going home if we can complete the 25-mission tour. There may be a little doubt on us making that, however, as we had been nominated as tail-end Charlie for this long trip. I wish our turn had come last mission!
Mission: Despite the dire warnings from intel, we didn’t seen any opposition until we hit the northern coast of the Adriatic, when it got lively. Our first customers were a Luftwaffe FW190 and ANR Me109 ahead of us, with another Me109 – a Jerry – high on our tail.
Perez was unable to hit the FW, but Brooks, on the right cheek gun, took out the Italian 109 off our starboard bow, blowing up the engine and sending the pilot down with his plane.
Hughes also successfully dealt with the one on our tail, doing serious damage to one wing, making the plane unflyable.
The FW190 managed to put some hits into us, but there was no immediate effect on the aircraft. As the pilot manoeuvred for another run at us, Perez joined the party, blowing up the Butcher Bird’s engine oil tank, resulting in the disintegration of the aircraft.
The cheers were short-lived, as another FW190 attacked from ahead and above us, with his Me109 partner coming in above our tail. “Where’s our goddam escorts,” Perez snarled, and – for once – I had to agree with his outburst.
Perez was unable to repeat his destruction on the new bandit, but both Hughes and Ward managed to nail the 109 in our 6, but not fatally.
The FW missed us, and swooped around to come in dead ahead for another pass, but the 109 was more accurate, with some shells thumping into the rear of the aircraft.
Stafford called out, “Shit! I’m hit!!” He quickly followed it with, “It ain’t bad guys, just a cut cheek.”
I thought worse was to follow, as both Long (on the chin turret) and Perez could not hit the FW out in front. Even worse, Long reported that one of the chin turret’s guns had jammed.
The 109 had moved round to come in low on our starboard side, but Stafford (despite his wound) was the only one who managed to hit it. There were cheers when it lazily turned over and went into an uncontrolled dive. (Initial FCA result on the cockpit; follow-up roll killed the pilot).
The FW190 had one more go at us, but – amazingly – missed totally, then headed off for home, with Hughes’ parting shot failing to connect.
Within in a minute, the gasping voice of Hughes came on the com. “Struggling to breathe, skipper,” he wheezed, “Looks like my oxygen connection is fubar.”
I ordered him forward to the radio room to pick up a walk-round bottle, while I had a quick chat with Brooks. Our nav confirmed the worst – if we dropped to 10000 feet so oxygen wasn’t needed, we wouldn’t make it over the Alps to the target.
I ordered Ward to call in our abort situation, plus advise that someone needed to take over our tail end slot, then Sperry and I put the plane into a dive to get us down to thicker air, as we reversed course for home.
I told Long to dump the bombs once we were over the sea again, which he did, then reported the good news that he had unjammed the chin turret gun.
Haley gave Stafford the once-over and confirmed that his wound was more of a shaving cut than anything else, so Stafford got a bit of a ribbing, as this would be his third Purple Heart in six missions!
Moving out over the sea meant that we wouldn’t have extra flak, even at this low level, but would attract more opposition than if we were up over 20000 feet.
A couple of Me109s turned up about halfway home, but were seen off without further damage to the aircraft.
We soon touched down back at Giulia, but as we lowered the tail, a terrible grinding came from the back of the aircraft. I pulled the plane off the runway as soon as possible, and shut it down to await a tow back to the hardstanding.
When we climbed out, it was apparent that our tailwheel was damaged beyond repair. The medics who turned up, as per the usual procedure, took a quick look at Stafford and cleared him for an immediate return to duty.
A crew truck picked us up and took us to debrief, then we had to wait to see how many of our comrades made it back.
Unfortunately – like every trip – each squadron had missing planes, and the stories from our friends about the massive furball over the target made us secretly glad that we’d missed out on that ‘fun’.
The post-op admin was minimal this time, but all bar Hughes got at least some credit for the enemies that they shot down. I put in the paperwork for Stafford’s second OLC for his Purple Heart, grinning at the ‘wound’ that earned it for him
The Group took a bit of a mauling, and I couldn’t help thinking we were lucky that the damage happened south of the Alps – if it had been the other side, we’d be POWs by now, or at least interned in Switzerland.
Still – our duty at the tail of the formation means that we will skip that position for a few missions, at least.
1Lt Franco Vorelli, Pilot Commanding B-17G-50BO-42-102379 "In Like Flynn" 79th (H) BS, 509th (H) BG For a full mission history of "In Like Flynn", "Blitz Buggy", plus my three aircraft in the previous war, please see my (GarySK) post in the Tarmac forum.
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Post by wolverinetoddy on Dec 11, 2023 20:32:01 GMT -8
B-17 Name: Pride of the Badgers (11) Crew Commander: Captain WW Robinson Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Formation: High Position: Middle
Mission Date: 22 Feb 44 Mission #: 11
Target: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory
Position: Name (mission #) {Claims After} Status Pilot: Capt. WW Robinson (11) {0} SS, AM: 2, PH Co-Pilot: 2nd Lt. GS Hoyt (2) {0} PH Bombardier: 2nd Lt. R Moore (2) {0} Navigator: 2nd Lt. W Sloat (11) {0} AM: 2, PH: 3 Engineer: MSgt. A Bissett (11) {3} AM: 2 Ball Gunner: Sgt. E Dean (11) {4} AM: 2 Radio Oper.: Sgt. I Cooper (10) {1} AM, PH: 4 Pt Waist G: Sgt. W Page (1) {0} PH Stbd Waist G: Sgt. J Lewis (11) {0} AM: 2, PH: 3 Tail Gunner: Sgt. W Towney (10) {6} AM, PH: 2
Bomb Percentage: Did not bomb
Bomber Disposition: Nose O2 Fire, Rudder, Superficial Damage (81 Peckham Points)
Casualties: W Sloat: SW – 5 days in hospital GS Hoyt: SW – 4 days in hospital W Page: KIA
Claims (BY TYPE): Attacked: (3:109, 0:190, 2:110) Damaged: (0:109, 0:190, 2:110) Destroyed: (1:109, 0:190, 0:110)
Special Note: I Cooper: AM W Towney: AM W Sloat: PH GS Hoyt: PH W Page: PH
Mission Description: Filed by Captain WW Robinson, pilot commanding
The leadership of this bomb group, in its infinite wisdom, has decided to award me the Silver Star. So instead of spending an afternoon of our training day working with the crew and conferring with my ground crew, I spent it getting my dress uniform pressed so a general could pin a medal on my chest. Colonel Billings says it is good for morale and the war effort. I suppose who am I to argue with a colonel?
Hoyt and I came back from the mission briefing to find the crew waiting to hear about the mission. “It is going to be a long one. All the way to Germany to bomb a Messerschmidt factory.” There was a general murmur of agreement that if we could blow a fighter factory off the map it would be good for us.
We took off without incident and settled into our usual position right in front of the tail end plane. I like to fly back here so I can keep an eye on the squadron.
The outbound flight was quiet until we approached the foothills of the Alps. We were jumped by a pair of 109s. One came in from the rear and was shot down by Cooper. A rare victory for a radio operator. The other came in from 12 o’clock high and unloaded on the nose.
“Fire, fire” called out Moore from the nose. We waited nervously for his next report. Hoyt had picked up a spare extinguisher and was about ready to go up when Moore reported back. “Sir, the fire’s out, but so is the oxygen. Sloat and I are fine, but we don’t have a lot of time on the spare bottles.”
Hoyt and I pushed the Pride of the Badgers into a dive and a wide left turn away from the safety of the squadron and the danger of the mountains. “Cooper, signal the squadron that we are aborting. Tell Lt. Simmons from Irascible Girl that he is command.”
We leveled off at 10,000 feet and settled into the course that Sloat called up to us.
In Zone 6 we were attacked by a 109 and a pair of 110s. We hit both 110s. They wounded Hoyt and Sloat and killed Page. Despite their wounds, Sloat continued to navigate our way home and Hoyt continued to fly the plane.
We arrived safely back at base. Sgt Page flew a total of one mission and went home in a box. Now there is a man who deserves a medal.
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Post by kageyone on Dec 11, 2023 23:25:34 GMT -8
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tomt1999
80 Bomber Squadron XO
Posts: 142
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Post by tomt1999 on Dec 12, 2023 9:07:40 GMT -8
Mission Date: Feb 22, 1944 Target: Regensburg Germany aircraft factory Mission/Bomber: 11 / 3 80th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy) "Mountain Men" Formation: Middle Position: Middle 1LT Leslie West - Pilot - Missions:3 Awards: 2LT N.D. Smart - Co-Pilot - Missions:3 Awards: 2LT Robert Orleans - Bombardier - Missions:3 Awards: 2LT Ben Weinstein - Navigator - Missions:3 Awards: S/Sgt David Krieger - Radio Op - Missions:3 Awards: M/Sgt Felix Pappalardi - Engineer - Missions:3 Awards: S/Sgt John Brodsky - Ball Gunner - Missions:3 Awards: Sgt Jay Piper - Port Waist Gunner - Missions:3 Awards: Sgt Bill Ruhlmann - Starboard Waist Gunner - Missions:3 Awards: Sgt Ned Pepper - Tail Gunner - Missions:3 Awards: Bombing OFF 0%Damage: 210 Peckham Pts9X Superficial 9pp Bomb Bay Doors 10 pp Tail turret out 20pp Port Wing Root 25pp Hydraulics SF 10pp Starboard Wing flap 10pp Port Wing - landing gear INOP 25pp Tail - rudder 10pp Port Wing - brakes out 25pp Landing with No Landing Gear 75pp CAT-E on landing Casualties: none Awards: none EA Outbound: Z7 3x FW 190, 2 D/O, 1 DAM Z10 W1 3x Me 109, 2 D/O Z10 W2 3x Me 110, 1 D/O Z12 4x Me 109, 1 D/O, 1 DEST, 1 DAM Inbound: Z12 2x FW 190, 2 D/O Z10 3x Fw 190, 1 D/O Z7 3x Fw 190 Totals: 11x Fw 190: 5 D/O, 1 DAM 7x Me 109: 3 D/O, 1 DEST, 1 DAM 3x Me110: 1 D/O 21 e a/c; 9 D/O, 2 DAM, 1 DEST Claims: 1x Me 109 - 50% each to: S/Sgt David Krieger - Radio Op Sgt Jay Piper - Port Waist Gunner AMMO USE: 22 AAR ========== After a few days off and some interminable training flights, the boys and I were glad to get busy on a mission again. And such a mission. Long and cold and dangerous. We all ended up in one piece, but can't say the same for our ship. Just after we crossed the coast near Trieste, three 190s attacked us. Our radio op got a piece of one of them. The other two were driven off by the P-38s. Those fliers did yeoman work today for us, driving off enemy a/c time and time again. The Alps were spectacular on both legs of the mission. Glad we didn't have to cross them on foot. Just before the IP, two waves of fighters filled our sites with half driven off by the escorts, and a handful of missed shots. We got a couple superficial hits - one of which was somewhat dicey: the bomb bay doors.
Over the target is when our luck changed for the worse. Four 109s attacked with all their shots missing. One was destroyed by the radio op and port waist gunners. Then the heavy flak nailed us. We took two explosions in the rear port side of the aircraft, knocking out the tail gun (but not the tail gunner miraculously). The combination of the swarms of fighters and damage from flak lead us to drop our eggs off target to the tune of 0% in the box. As we turned about for the inbound leg, the copilot caught my eye and tapped the fuel gauge. He had noticed, as had I, that our fuel consumption was high - we might have to make it back on fumes. We continued to monitor fuel usage for the rest of the mission. Leaving the Regensburg area two 190s were driven off by our escorts. Thirty minutes later, three more 190s attacked, with one driven off and two misses. Near Trieste we nearly met our Waterloo. Two 190s came at us from 6:00 level. And our tail gun was out. They shot us full of holes - a number of which were superficial luckily for us. Damage details listed elsewhere in this report. Landing was going to be problematic. With the port landing gear stuck closed, brakes out, and flaps inoperative, we put her down in the grass between the runway and the olive groves. All of the crew were shaken up but un-injured. Can't say the same for "Mountain Men". She's CAT-E with only three missions under her belt. Les West
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ChefEd
78th Bomber Squadron
Posts: 471
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Post by ChefEd on Dec 12, 2023 13:30:33 GMT -8
B-24D Bit o’ Lace B-24D-53-CO-42-40408 Squadron: 78th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group Squadron Position: Low Aircraft Position: Middle, TEC Mission Date: 22 FEB 1944 Mission Number: 11 This Aircraft: 5 Target: Regensburg, Germany, Prufening Aircraft Factory CrewPosition | Rank / Name | Missions | Kills | Awards | Status | Stress | Pilot | 1st Lt Damien Carroll | 5 | 0 | AM, PH | 0 | 0 | Co-Pilot | 2nd Lt Donald Costa | 5 | 0 | AM, PH | 0 | 1 | Navigator / NT | 2nd Lt Winchester Lee | 10 | 0 | AM+, PH | 0 | 1 | Bombardier | 2nd Lt Reid Bush | 5 | 0 | AM, PH | 0 | 0 | Engineer | T/3rd Walter McClain | 5 | 1.67 | AM, PH | 0 | 0 | Radio Op / Rt Waist | T/3rd Quentin Mains | 5 | 1.16 | AM, PH | 0 | 0 | NT / Rt Waist | S/Sgt Kalel Burgess | 5 | 1 | AM, PH | 0 | 0 | Ball Turret | S/Sgt Conor West | 5 | 1.5 | AM, PH | 0 | 0 | Left Waist / NT | Sgt Zahir Edmonson | 5 | 0 | AM, PH | 0 | 0 | Tail Gunner | T/3rd Jayden Dawson | 5 | 2 | AM, PH | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Crew Chief | S/Sgt King Solis | | | | | |
Bomb Run: On Target, 50 %Casualties: KIA
1st Lt Damien Carroll 2nd Lt Donald Costa 2nd Lt Winchester Lee 2nd Lt Reid Bush T/3rd Walter McClain T/3rd Quentin Mains S/Sgt Kalel Burgess S/Sgt Conor West Sgt Zahir Edmonson T/3rd Jayden Dawson Damage: Total, Shot Down Peckham Points: 321 Peckham Points, Total Loss (Points for accumulated damage, discounting being shot down.) Landing: Shot Down Enemy AircraftType | Encountered | Driven Off | Damaged | Claimed | Awarded | Probable | Fw-190 | 12 | 2 | 6 | 2 | 0.33 | 1 | Bf-109 | 8 | 5 | 0 | 2 | 1.33 | 0 | Ju-88 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Me-210 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Re.2005 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Claims Position | Claimed | Awarded | Probable | Ball | 2 | 1 | 0 | Right Waist | 2 | 0.33 | 1 | Radio Op | 1 | 0.33 | 0 |
Awards: Air Medal (All Posthumous)1st Lt Damien Carroll 2nd Lt Donald Costa 2nd Lt Winchester Lee, 2nd Award 2nd Lt Reid Bush T/3rd Walter McClain T/3rd Quentin Mains S/Sgt Kalel Burgess S/Sgt Conor West Sgt Zahir Edmonson T/3rd Jayden Dawson Purple Heart (All Posthumous)1st Lt Damien Carroll 2nd Lt Donald Costa 2nd Lt Winchester Lee 2nd Lt Reid Bush T/3rd Walter McClain T/3rd Quentin Mains S/Sgt Kalel Burgess S/Sgt Conor West Sgt Zahir Edmonson T/3rd Jayden Dawson Promotions: None AFTER ACTION REPORTAs predicted by intelligence, Bit o’ Lace encountered the first enemy opposition over the Adriatic, passing San Marino. A single Bf-109 and an Re.2005 were driven off by escorts. At the foothills of the Alps a pair of Bf-109s and an Me-210 were all driven off by escorts. Once over the Alps, Black Maria dropped out of formation, and Bit o’ Lace slid back not the TEC position. Bit o’ Lace was immediately set upon by a pair of Fw-190s and a single Me-109. Escorts drove off one of the 190s. Defensive gunnery drove off the remaining 190 and shot down the 109 in a ball of fire. In the target zone Bit o’ Lace met her match. Up to this point the bomber had only faced eight enemy aircraft, of which 6 had been driven off by escorts. Over the target Bit o’ Lace faced sixteen more enemy fighters where only four were intercepted by escorts. The first encounter was a foursome of Fw-190s and a Bf-109. The 109 was driven off, leaving the 190s for the bomber’s crew to fend off. S/Sgt Burgess, manning the nose turret, shot down the 190 he faced. T/3rd McClain, in the top turret, damaged a second 190. The remaining pair shot up Bit o’ Lace. These two aircraft killed left waist gunner Sgt Edmonson outright, and seriously wounding pilot 1Lt Carroll, and S/Sgt Burgess. Damage to the aircraft included the loss of the tail guns, the radio room heat, the tail O2, and the rubber rafts in the bomb bay. A second wave of enemy aircraft was a pair of Fw-190s. Defensive gunner damaged both enemy fighters. Damage was severe enough to one of the Focke-Wulfs that it lost control and crashed into the radio room. T/3rd McClain and 2Lt Lee were both killed in the collision. Immediately following the collision, flak struck the right wing, adding insult to injury, as the plane dropped out of formation from the collision. Tail gunner T/3rd Dawson extricated himself from the tail position and moved to take over the left waist. With half of the crew dead or seriously wounded, co-pilot 2Lt Costa was left to himself to manage and control the stricken bomber. Doing his best to hold the fort, 2Lt Costa passed control to bombardier 2Lt Bush. Showing, once again his mastery of the position, bombardier Bush dropped 50% of the plane’s bombs on target, in five mission he had a 48% success rate. Due to the damage to the bomber, and the loss of heat and oxygen through much of the aircraft, 2Lt Costa brought the bomber below 10,000FT. Clear of the target a pair of 190s and another single 109 attacked. Still under the umbrella of the escorts, two of the enemy were driven off. S/Sgt Burgess shot down the remaining 190, having set the fighter on fire. The condition of Bit o’ Lace was so severe 2Lt Costa decided to dead reckon toward Switzerland. With his navigator dead, and his bombardier tending to the wounded, it was all guess work. At greatly reduced speed and altitude, Bit o’ Lace took advantage of the last of her fighter cover as the formation flew back to Italy. A single escort was able to drive off a Junkers 88. A second 88 and a 109 were left for what remained of the bomber’s defensive gunnery. S/Sgt West, in the ball, shot down the remaining Junkers. The remaining 109 missed and departed. Now, completely alone, Bit o’ Lace was faced with a foursome of 190s and a single 109. S/Sgt Burgess made quick work of the 109, coming in from twelve high. Not enough guns were available to cover all the incoming fighters. That was telling. An uncovered 190 at 1:30 low fired its cannon into the right-wing root of the bomber, destroying the wing spar. The wing folded up and over the bomber, putting her into an Uncontrolled dive. The plummeting bomber entombed the entire crew, taking them all with her as she plunged to the earth below.
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Post by kageyone on Dec 12, 2023 23:15:03 GMT -8
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Post by kageyone on Dec 14, 2023 0:27:59 GMT -8
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ChefEd
78th Bomber Squadron
Posts: 471
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Post by ChefEd on Dec 14, 2023 9:19:39 GMT -8
B-24D Pistol Packin’ Mama (Spare Pool Aircraft) B-24D-20-CO-41-24207 Squadron: 78th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group Squadron Position: Low Aircraft Position: Middle Mission Date: 22 FEB 1944 Mission Number: 11 This Aircraft: 2 Target: Regensburg, Germany, Aircraft Factory CrewPosition | Rank / Name | Missions | Kills | Awards | Status | Stress | Pilot | 1Lt William Hopkins | 2 | 0 | 0 | RTD | 0 | Co-Pilot | Capt Bruno Pierce | 1 | 0 | 0 | RTD | 0 | Navigator / NT | 2Lt Rodney Towsey | 5 | 0 | AM | RTD | 0 | Bombardier | 2Lt Edwin O'Brien | 5 | 1 | AM | RTD | 0 | Engineer | S/Sgt Jason Glasser | 2 | 0.83 | 0 | RTD | 0 | Radio Op / Rt Waist | S/Sgt Brent Wickie | 7 | 0 | AM | RTD | 0 | NT / Rt Waist | Sgt Ralph Taylor | 7 | 1 | AM, PH | RTD 24 FEB 44 | 0 | Ball Turret | Sgt Gavin O'Callahan | 7 | 3.83 | AM | RTD | 0 | Left Waist / NT | Sgt Rodney Lazenby | 4 | 0 | PH | RTD 22 MAR 44 | 1 | Tail Gunner | Sgt Tony Marshall | 6 | 0 | AM | RTD | 0 | | | | | | | | Crew Chief | S/Sgt Elmer Hoffman | | | | | |
Bomb Run: Off Target, 0 %Casualties: Left Waist – Sgt Rodney Lazenby, SW, Broken right ulna Right Waist – Sgt Ralph Taylor, LW, Facial laceration Damage: Bomb Bay Doors Inop - 10 Superficial X7 - 14 Serious Wound - 5 Light Wound - 2 Peckham Points: 31 Peckham Points, One ( 1 ) Day(s) to Repair Landing: Safe Enemy AircraftType | Encountered | Driven Off | Damaged | Claimed | Awarded | Probable | Fw-190 | 13 | 2 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 2 | Bf-109 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Bf-110 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | Me-410 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
ClaimsPosition | Claimed | Awarded | Probable | Bombardier | 3 | 1 | 2 | Ball | 1 | 1 | 0 | Right Waist | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Awards: Purple Heart
Sgt Rodney Lazenby Sgt Ralph Taylor Air Medal2Lt Edwin O’Brien 2Lt Rodney Towsey Promotions: None AFTER ACTION REPORTThanks to Capt Pierce, the members of this crew got another chance to fly. Sergeants Taylor and Lazenby are probably wishing they had stood in bed, as both were wounded after the bomb run. 2Lt O’Brien was quite chagrined about his bombing performance, zero, zilch on target. However, he will be buying rounds at the O-Club tonight, as he got a kill and two probables, firing the nose gun. Capt Pierce could have taken the left seat, but gave it to me, as he only needed flight time, to maintain flying status. He will definitely get a round from me tonight. We did not meet up with any enemy fighters until recrossing the Italian coast, outbound. A trio of Fw190s attacked, with one driven off by our escorts. We drove off one, and got our paint scratched by the remaining fighter. He came around again, with misses on both sides. With the coast receding behind us, and Alps looming in the distance, another trio of Focke-Wulfs attacked. Better escort coverage drove off two fighters this time. We drove off the last one but lost the top turret to an ammo feed jam. S/Sgt Glasser took the respite of passing over the Alps to clear the jam and was ready to go for the other side. Mama was unmolested from the Alps to the target. Approaching Regensburg another trio of 190s attacked. Escorts were nowhere to be seen. The first FW attacked from 3 high, missed, and did not return. The remaining two were both shot down by Lt O’Brien, in their first and second passes, however, he would only get credit for one. Flak was heavy, but off target, doing little more than aerate the right wing. Lt O’Brien took control of the plane, preparing to drop our load. When the bomb bay doors were actuated to open, nothing happened. (Later inspection indicated they actuators were damaged by enemy rounds.) S/Sgt Glasser and S/Sgt Wickie manually opened the doors, and Lt O’Brien pickled them. We were way off target. Leaving the target we were accosted by a pair of Bf-109s. Sgt Lazenby, left waist, shot down one, the other was peppered by S/Sgt Glasser in the top turret, driving it off. A second wave comprised of a single FW and a pair of 109s attacked. Lt O’Brien shot the FW down, and most disappointingly was denied this kill, as well. Escorts drove off one of the 109s, with the last one missing us, continuing its dive and disappeared below. The next 40 minutes were busy. We faced four Fw-190s, a pair of Bf-110s, and an Me-410. The 410 was the only enemy fighter the escorts were around to drive off. One of the FWs wounded both of our waist gunners on a single pass. No other damage was sustained. Finally, with the Alps rising before us, the pair of 110s attacked. Sgt Taylor, with blood in his eyes from the facial laceration, and Sgt O’Callahan, in the ball, tagged one of them. It erupted in a ball of fire, with no chutes observed. Only Sgt O’Callahan received credit for the kill. Once passed the Alps had no more enemy fighters tried to attack us. Submitted by, 1Lt William Hopkins, Pilot B-24D Pistol Packin’ Mama (Spare) 78th BS, 509th BG (H), 15th AF, USAAF
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Post by campsawyer on Dec 14, 2023 17:42:25 GMT -8
B-17F Double Bomb (B-17F-100BO 42-30333) Pilot: 1st Lt Paul Flores (Hospital) 1st LT John Devine Squadron: 80th Bomber Squadron Formation/Position: Middle/-- Mission Date: 22 Feb 44 Mission Number: 14 Missions This Bomber: 11 Base: Guilia, Italy Target: Anzio Beachhead, Italy - Supply Dumps Crew | Current Mission | Previous Claims | This Mission | Stress | Status | Pilot 1st Lt John Devine | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Sanders | 11 | 0 | 0 | 1 | RTD | Bombardier 2nd Lt Thompson | 9 | 0 | 0 | 1 | RTD | Navigator 2nd Lt Cox | 9 | 0 | 0 | 1 | RTD | Engineer S/SGT King | 8 | 1 | 2.5 | 0 | RTD | Radioman T/Sgt Ramirez | 11 | 0 | 0 | 1 | RTD | Ball Gunner Sgt Roberts | 11 | 0 | 1 | 1 | RTD | PWG Sgt Scott | 11 | 0 | 0 | 1 | RTD | SWG Sgt Brown
| 9 | 0 | 0.5 | 1 | RTD | Tail Gunner S/Sgt Thomas | 8 | .5 | 1.5 | 1 | RTD |
Bomb Run: On On Target: 40% B-17 Damage: 8xSuperficial, Radio, 1xFlap, 1xElevator, 1xFuel, Nose and Tail Guns Peckham Points: 73 Repair Time: 1 day Crew Chief: S/Sgt Steve Taylor, average Landing: Safe E/A | Encountered | Destroyed | Probable | Damaged | Intercepted | FW-190 | 10 | 4 | 0 | 2 | 4 | ME-109 | 10 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 4 | ME-110 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | |
Confirmed Claims: .5x FW190 .5xME109 - TT - SGT King .5x ME109 - TG - SGT Thomas Casualties: None Award/ Promotions Requests: None After Action Report OutboundThis raid was going to be a long one and dangerous with the length as well as the threat of German / Italian fighters. Our crew gathered together for a briefing regarding fighters and the mission length. All agreed that we needed to stay alert when we get over occupied Italy, Austria and Germany. We would need to get SGT King back in action fast as he in the Top Turret and the Ball Turret were critical to stopping fighter attacks. Once we all were clear, we loaded up and started takeoff. With good weather, take-off was routine as well as the group formed up before we headed out over the Adriatic. Our first encounter was over the water as a flight of ME109's tried to have a go at us, but the P-38's drove them off as we flew on. Next encounter was over the Occupied Italian coast with German FW190s attacking our group. P-38's took out most of them but one got through and we had t engage. Both SGT King and SGT Scott opened fire damaging and driving the FW190 off with no damage. We moved on toward the Austrian Alps and with decent weather we were able to make it over without issue. We soon ran into heavy German fighter cover as we entered Germany. Fighter cover was getting strained and we needed to fight most of them off ourselves. SGT King was able hit on FW190 coming in 12 High and SGT Roberts in the ball turret damaged another. But two other FW190's were able to fire with several hits including our radio. They disappeared into the clouds as we continued on. Next was a squadron of ME110's that tried to get on our tails, but P-38's drove off several of them but SGT Thomas had to take on one. His fire missed, but the ME110 scored several hits, include SGT Thomas's tail guns and part of our starboard flaps. The ME110 tried a second pass but was intercepted by a P-38. The last pass was by a lone ME109 that had made it through the P-38's. It came in on a vertical dive and SGT King and Ramirez took aim. SGT Kings double .50 cals did most of the work hitting the wing and shearing it off. We continued on and soon saw the outskirts of Regensburg, but we had another wave of German fighters to get through the P-38s. One did make it at 3 o'clock level SGT King and Scott and Roberts took aim. SGT King was the first to score hits and again ripped a large area of wing off and cause it to dive. SGT Roberts and Scott contributed as well. We saw the German fighters pull back as the flak started. Very heavy and concentrated on specific B17s, when we started to get targeted we all put flak helmets on. We took a near miss that ripped a hole in the mid fuselage, but no systems were hit. It soon came to LT Thompsons turn and LT Devine turned over the plane to the auto pilot and he took over. More flak appeared but no hits and the bombs were away. The group started the turn for home as rear crew looked for bomb effect. The pattern looked good and there was no drift and it looked like most of the bombs hit the target. Inbound
We had to come back through the flak, but it had lightened a little, but was still concentrated on individual planes. We did not get targeted and made it through, but the German fighters had regrouped and were coming back at us. The first wave was 5 ME109s at various angles. One P-38 was able to help but we still had four to deal with. SGT Scott was able to damage one and SGT Roberts and King were able to team up against one that once hit headed toward the ground. Two more pressed attacks but missed. The two circled around for another pass and SGT Roberts and Brown teamed up to damage one, but both scored hits. One it was to the port outboard fuel tank and we saw heavy fuel loss, but luckily it went to a trickle over time. The two German fighters flew off and we were left to wondered about our fuel status. We rebalanced the rest of the fuel in the other tanks and hoped that we could stay with the group until we were over safe territory. There was one more attack by German fighters over Germany. A single FW190 attacked but both our fire and the fighter missed. After this we had the Alps to deal with and how long we could stay with the group. Over Italy we watched for any German or Italian fighters, but none appeared and we headed out over the Adriatic and stayed with the group until about 100 miles out. At this point the fuel tank was very low and we cut engines 1 and 4 to save fuel. We started descending early as well. We were out of formation but just below them incase some stray fighter appeared. We eventually landed without issue and surveyed the damage. The outboard tank had a large hole on the top of it that was open to the air. It seemed that the fuel loss that we saw was the excess above the hole that leaked out and the rest stayed in the tank to be used by the engines. We were very lucky that another shot had not detonated the fuel and all of use with it. 2nd LT Sanders, CoPilot, 80th BS, 509th BG, 15th AF
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tomt1999
80 Bomber Squadron XO
Posts: 142
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Post by tomt1999 on Dec 15, 2023 11:54:35 GMT -8
Mission Date: Feb 22, 1944 Target: Regensburg Germany aircraft factory Mission/Bomber: 11 / 1 80th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy) B-17F-10BO-41-24484 - "The Butcher's Daughter" Formation: Middle Position: Middle
CREW Pilot William Sims 1LT CoPilot Cody Marsh 2LT Navigator Joel "Cleveland" Zaremba 2LT Bombardier Benjamin "Benny" Galardi 2 LT Engineer Allan "Utah" Randolph S/SGT Radio Zander "Ham" Berger S/SGT Ball Gunner Rod "Big Rod" Alsita SGT Waist Gunner Nicholas "Nicky" Hartman SGT Waist Gunner Henry "Honri" Lyons SGT Tail Gunner Bobby "Stubbs" Connolly SGT
BOMBING - ON Target 20%
CASUALTIES Ball Gunner Rod "Big Rod" Alsita SGT - Severe Wound (accumulated LW's)
CLAIMS Me100 - .5 Ball Gunner Rod "Big Rod" Alsita SGT / .5 Waist Gunner Henry "Honri" Lyons SGT Me110 - Ball Gunner Rod "Big Rod" Alsita SGT Me110 - Engineer Allan "Utah" Randolph S/SGT Me110 - Waist Gunner Henry "Honri" Lyons SGT
ENEMY A/C 8x Me109: 1x DEST, 4x Dam (ball/swaist). 1x D/O 4x Me110: 3x DEST, 1x Dam (top, ball, swaist) 5x FW190 17x e a/c: 4x DEST, 5x Dam, 1x D/O
DAMAGE 77 Peckham points: 7x Superficial Hits 7pp SICK CREWMEMBER - ball turret 2xLW 4pp Control Cables 1/2 10pp Port Gunner: SW 5pp Starboard Wing: aileron INOP 25pp Bomb bay: doors, SF 1pp Rudder 1/3 10pp Engine #1 OUT; restarts 15pp
For a put-together crew and a hangar queen, we did alright today.
Gunnery was spot on, beginning with three 109s in Zone 7. All were damaged and missed their shots on us.
30 Minutes later, three 110s attacked us. They probably wish they didn't because we shot down two of them. One got a superficial hit on us.
The oxygen went out in the tail around then. Waist gunner Lyons went to check on tail gunner Connolly and he was past out from anoxia. He revived him with a walk-around bottle and then helped him to the waist. Connolly was dazed for the rest of the mission.
Over the target two 190s targeted us, one raking the tail with some damage. Flak knocked a couple more holes in us, but on we flew. Even with the flak hits, we managed to drop on target.
After we turned for home, three waves attacked us, being announced bny rockets coming from aft. It was also extremely cold and the port cheek gun froze up. Another 110 was destroyed at this time by the ball gunner.
Just before the Alps. four 109s jumped us. One was destroyed, one damaged, one driven off and the other missed us.
Zone 7: The tail gunner's situation was worsening. He is now considered Seriously Wounded. More rockets fired at us. These nailed is with three hits: two to the tail and one to the starboard wing.
Zone 5 - three more 190s, one of whom hit us superficially.
Just as we were thinking we were home free, engine #1 conked out. We began to lose formation, but the engineer got her started again - not at full power, but enough for us to keep our slot.
We landed safely at Guilia and watched our ship get towed back to the Hangar Queen hangar.
Ammo Expenditure: 24
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rhreiss
79th Bomber Squadron XO
Posts: 151
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Post by rhreiss on Dec 15, 2023 19:05:22 GMT -8
509th BG, 15AF MISSION # 11 Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory
B-24J Bama Beauty (Mission #6)Crew Commander: 2LT George McQuinn Squadron: 78th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group Formation: Low Position: Middle outbound, TEC Inbound TARGET: Aircraft Factory Crew Position | Rank | Name | Mission # | Prior Awards | Prior Kills
Awarded | Status | Pilot | 2LT | George McQuinn | 10 | AM |
| RFD | Co-Pilot
| 2LT | Howard Mills | 6 |
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| RFD | Bombardier
| 2LT | Johnny Marcum | 10 | AM | .25 | RFD
| Navigator | 2LT | Pat Tobin | 10 | AM | .25 | RFD
| Engineer | S/SGT | Irvin "Field" Marshall | 8 | AM+ | 5.25 | RFD | Radio/ RW | S/SGT | John Whitehead | 10 | AM | .5 | RFD
| Ball Gunner | SGT | Bill Trotter | 10 | AM, PH | 2.16 | RFD
| Left Waist | SGT | Harry Kimberlin | 10 | AM | 1.5 | RFD
| Nose Gunner | SGT | Tommy Thompson | 5 |
| 3.08 | RFD
| Tail Gunner | SGT | Dave Short | 10 | AM | 1 | RFD
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Crew Chief T/SGT Bob Patrick (Good) skill +1 10th mission Crew Chief Pre Mission Report: Standard mission and chances for Mechanical Failures.
Bomb Percentage: on-target, 30% Bomber Disposition: Ready at overnight repairs and maintenance Bomber Damage: Navigation Equipment 10 Superficial damage 1 Peckham Points: 11 Landing: Safe landing at Giulia Airfield
Enemy Aircraft: Encountered: 14
| Me109 | Fw190 | Me110 | Me210 | Me410
| Re2005 | TOTAL | Escort Intercept | 3 | 5 | 1 | 3 | | | 11 | Undamaged |
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| 1 |
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| 1 | Probable/Denied
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| Destroyed |
| 1 | 1 |
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Casualties: Claims: FW190 S/SGT Marshall and SGT Thompson Approved - Full Credit Awarded Me110 SGT Trotter and SGT Thompson Approved - Full Credit Awarded Awards: Air Meda: 2LT McQuinn; 2LT Marcum; 2LT Tobin; T/SGT Whitehead; SGT Trotter; SGT Kimberlin; SGT Thompson; SGT Short George McQuinn to 1LT note T/SGT Bob Patrick Skill up to Meticulous
AAR
Everyone was somber upon learning the target for today. Howard my co-pilot kept saying I have a bad feeling about this mission.
OUTBOUND We took off and joined up on the squadron lead, with out incident the good weather did nothing to lift the crew’s mood. Our fight escort was on the ball for the outbound flight. Enemy aircraft started trying their luck as we crossed the coast over Italy. The little friends chased off a pair of Me109s and a Me210. Approaching the Alps the escorts intercepted a pair of Me210s. Shortly after that a pair of Me110 attacked from our 6. The escorts got one and SGT Trotter and SGT Short did enough damage to the other that it broke off the attack. About that time we heard Betty Anne radio that they were turning for home with her O2 system shot out. Once over the Alps enemy resistance resumed, a trio of Fw190s attacked with the little friends stopping two of them. The third got through but S/SGT Marshall and SGT Thompson took it’s right wing off, with no chu observed. We heard Bit o’ Lace callout that they were taking over TEC.
TARGET AREA Once we were in the target area our escorts ran off a Me109. As we were making our bomb run a flak burst shook the Bama Beauty. Pat Tobin our Nav started cussing and while 2LT Marcum managed to be on-target it was assessed as only 30% effective. 2LT Tobin reported the flak had taken out the Navigation equipment right in front of him. Bit o’ Lace had to abort and head to Switzerland due to battle damage, and we assumed TEC position as squadron reforms at the RP As the formation started back home our little friends stopped a pair of Me109s coming in at our 12 And 10:30 but a Me110 slipped in behind the one at out 10:30, but SGT Trotter and SGT Thompson turned it into a fireball.
INBOUND The enemy fighter activity lessened as we left the target area, but on our way to the Alps there were two attacks where rockets were lobbed into the formation from our rear. SGT Short thought he saw some Ju88’s but couldn’t be sure if they were the ones with the rockets. One burst near enough to us to do some superficial damage. Once over the Alps it was an uneventful flight.
We made a safe landing at Giulia Airfield. T/SGT Patrick says he will have the Bama Beauty ready for a mission tomorrow. While a relative easy mission for us My co-pilot was right that this mission was hard on the squadron. It looks like Bit o’ Lace didn't make it.
2LT George McQuinn, Pilot Commanding B-24J Bama Beauty 78th BS, 509th BG (H), 15th AF
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rhreiss
79th Bomber Squadron XO
Posts: 151
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Post by rhreiss on Dec 16, 2023 17:41:20 GMT -8
AAR
509th BG, 15AF MISSION # 11 Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory
B-17F All In (Mission #11)Crew Commander: 1LT George Gill Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group Formation: High Position: Middle TARGET: Aircraft Factory Crew Position | Rank | Name | Mission # | Prior Awards | Kills Awarded | Status | Pilot | 1LT | George Gill | 11 | AM+ |
| LW 1 week | Co-Pilot
| 2LT | 2LT Ed Cole | 11 | AM+
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| SW-IH | Bombardier
| 2LT | Louis “Buck” Newsom | 11 | AM+
| 3.16 | RFD
| Navigator | 2LT | 2LT Myril Hoag | 11 | AM+
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| RFD
| Engineer | S/SGT | Roy “Beau” Bell | 9 | AM, PH | .5 | SW off flying status | Radio Operator | S/SGT | Vern Kennedy | 11 | AM
| .5
| RFD
| Ball Gunner | SGT | SGT Russ Van Atta | 11 | AM
| .5 | RFD
| Left Waist | SGT | Julius “Moose” Solters | 11 | AM+
| .5 | RFD
| Right Waist | SGT | Jim Walkup | 3 |
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| Tail Gunner | SGT | Ralph “Red” Kress | 11 | AM+
| 2.5 | RFD
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Crew Chief T/SGT Fred Johnson (Dedicated) 11th mission skill 1 Crew Chief Pre Mission Report: No Mechanical Failure plus a Lady Luck Smile that can be used to try and mitigate one mechanical oriented damage result this mission Bomb Percentage: on-target, 40% Bomber Disposition: T/SGT Johnson says he will have it ready in one day, he says we must have used up several rabbit’s feet as we were lucky the damage wasn’t much worst. Bomber Damage: 4 x Superficial Damage 4 Cockpit no effect 5 Left Wing ring root hit 25 Left Wing no effect 10 Radio compartment no effect 5 Pilot Light wound 2 Co-pilot Serious wound 5 Engineer Serious wound 5 Peckham Points: 61 Landing: safe landing at Giulia Airfield Enemy Aircraft: Encountered: 29 | Me109 | Me110 | Fw190 | Ju88C-6 | Me210 | G55; | TOTAL | Escort Intercept | 3 | 2 | 7 |
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| 10 | Probable/Denied
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Casualties: 1LT George Gill LW ankle RTD in one week 2LT Ed Cole SW broken sternum, inflamed heart will be sent home to recover. S/SGT Roy “Beau” Bell SW broken bones in hand and shattered right wrist 4 weeks and off flying status but available for ground duties Claims: Me109 S/SGT Bell & SGT Walkup Full Credit Awarded FW190 S/SGT Bell & 2LT Hoag Full Credit Awarded FW190 S/SGT Bell Full Credit Awarded Me109 2LT Hoag Full Credit Awarded Me109 S/SGT Kennedy & SGT Walkup 1/3 Victory Credit Awarded Me110 S/SGT Kennedy & S/SGT Kress 1/2 Victory Credit Awarded Awards: PH 1LT George Gill PH 2LT Ed Cole PH (2nd award) S/SGT Roy “Beau” Bell AARAfter the crew got word of our target, a couple of them handed ‘just in case’ letters to Fred our crew chief. Everyone expected a long hard mission. OUTBOUNDWe took off and joined up with the formation without incident. There wasn’t any activity near us on until we crossed the Alps, although we heard the squadron lead Pride of the Badgers call that they had to abort, and Irascible Girl was to take the lead. Things changed once we were over the Apls and into Germany. Four Fw190s attacked as we approached the target area. Our escorts chased three of them off and when the last one attacked low at our 3, Russ did enough damage that he broke off the attack after taking a wild shot at us from a distance. TARGET AREAAs we entered the target area, the Kraut fighters were thick. The Lightnings intercepted one of a pair of Me109s while Russ and Jim dinged the other enough to make it miss. Beau got hit on the Fw190 attacking at our six which missed us as did Red’s attempt at a passing shot. Then a pair of Me109s attacked with the Lightnings taking care of one and Beau and Jim taking the Left wing off the second, no chute observed before we lost sight of it. The boys from the 82th then picked off a Me110 just before we reached the IP. Although the flak was heavy, it did no damage and Buck of on-target assessed as 40% effective. The flak lessened and as we reached the RP the fighter attacks bore in on us. Our little friends intercepted an Fw190 but the second attacked at our 1:30 Beau and Myril did enough damage that it missed and broke off the attack. Then a pair of Me110s attacked our 6. Russ damaged one which missed us and disappeared. The second came in at 6 low. Russ did some damage, but it raked us. Hitting the left-wing root, radio room nothing effected, and a couple of hits to the pilot compartment. Debris from the shells hit Ed breaking his sternum and something hit me in the ankle. I was able to keep flying but Ed was out of action. The Me110 tried to reattack, but Beau did more damage, and he broke off. That was followed by 3 Fw190s our little friends took care of one, Beau shot up one at our 3 with no chute observed. Jim did some damage to the third and it hit us twice doing superficial damage. Then he tried to come back for a second attack Beau and Myril did enough damage that he had to bail out. INBOUNDThe first half of the flight home was a running gunfight. With the bombing run complete Beau came up and helped Vern more Ed to the radio room. While Vern did first aid, Buck moved to the co-pilot seat. As we started home a pair of Fw190s attacked, our gunners and the Fw190 at our 1:30 all missed. The second at our 12 hit the top turret shattering Beau’s wrist. When it tried a reattack at our 6, Russ did enough damage that it broke off the attack. Vern did more first aid on Beau and move him to the radio room and then took over the top turret which was still working. While that was going on a Me109 attacked at our 12 and Myril manning the nose gun hammered the cockpit. No chute observed as the Me109 dropped out of sight. As we were approaching the Alps, we were attacked by 4 Fw190s, the escorts took care of one. The others got through but must have been green or pilots. Jim missed the one at our 3 as did the Fw190, Moose and Vern dinged the one at our 9 and it also missed, and Russ and Myril did some damage to the one at our 12, who also broke off the attack. Once over the Apls there was a short lull, and then as we approached the coast rockets were fired into the formation from our 6. One burst near us doing some more minor damage. That was followed by a couple of Me109s. Vern and Moose did enough damage to the first that it broke off with its engine smoking, while Russ has a similar result for the other. That was followed by a Me110 at our 6 that Russ damaged enough to make it break off after taking an ineffective shot parting shot. The last attacks came about halfway back over the Adriatic. Three Me109s tried their luck, the escorts chased two off and Russ and Jim shot up the last one at our 3, taking the Left wing off and shooting up the cockpit. No chute observed as it went into an uncontrolled spin. They were followed up by a pair of Me110s. The Jugs from the 325th took care of one and then Red and Russ took the Wing off the other, a chute was observed. Safe landing at Giulia Airfield, I needed Buck’s help with my foot injury. T/SGT Johnson says he will have it ready in one day, he says we must have used up several rabbit’s feet as we were lucky the damage wasn’t much worst. The flight surgeon says I will be back in a week. Beau gets a second Purple Heart in his first mission back. This time he is off flying status for a long time. After his wrist is repaired he will be in a cast for a while and be will be assigned to one of the ground support units. Ed has a broken sternum, inflamed heart and after 3 to 4 weeks recovery will be sent back for additional recovery. The good news is the gunnery board awards the crew 4 kills and 2 shared kills. 1LT George Gill, Pilot Commanding B-17F All In 79th BS, 509th BG (H), 15th AF
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Post by medic1 on Dec 17, 2023 9:53:39 GMT -8
B-17F INVADIN’ MAIDEN 5-BO-44-30823 Pilot: 1st Lt Franklin MarksSquadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group (H) 15th Air ForceFormation/Position: High/MiddleMission Date: 22 Feb 44 Mission Number: 011Missions This Bomber: 11Target: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory
Crew/Position/Rank | Current Mission | Previous Claims | This Mission | Stress Points | Status | Pilot 1st Lt Franklin Marks | 11 | 0 | 0 | 1 | RTD | Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Ted Masini | 11 | 0 | 0 | 0 | RTD | Bombardier 2nd Lt Craig Kellici | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | RTD | Navigator 2nd Lt Tom Cassidy | 11 | 3.5 | .5 | 0 | RTD | Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado | 11 | 2 | 4 | 2 | RTD | R/O T/Sgt Bruce Woodside | 11 | 1 | 1 | 1 | RTD | Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostanaro | 11 | 3 | 2.5 | 1 | RTD | PSW Sgt Mark Burnham | 11 | 1.5 | 0 | 0 | SW/IH | SWG Sgt Peter Lesniak | 11 | 0 | 0 | 1 | KIA | Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit | 11 | 1 | 4 | 1 | RTD |
Bomb Run: OffOn Target: 10%B-17 Damage: 7 Hits Superficial x 1 (1) Port Wing x 2 -flap inop (10) -#1 engine, N/E (20) Starboard Wing x 1 -flap inop (10) Waist x 2 -PWG SW/IH; SWG KIA (15) -heat controls inop (10) Tail x 1 -auto pilot inop (10) Peckham Points: 76Repair Time: Overnight Crew Chief: S/Sgt Steve Yates, (+2 modifier)Landing: Safe at GiuliaE/A Type | Encountered | Destroyed | Probable | Damaged | Intercepted | Bf-109 | 16 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 3 | Bf-110 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | C-202 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | C-205 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Fw-190 | 16 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 8 | G-55 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Ju-88 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | He-112 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | IAR-80 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Ju-88 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Re-2001 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | TOTALS | 37 | 14 | 1 | 3 | 12 |
Confirmed Claims: 14S/Sgt Curt Mercado 2x Fw-190, 1 x Bf-109, 1 x Re-2005 Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit 3 x Bf-109, 1 x Fw-190 S/Sgt Ed Kostanaro 2 x Bf – 109, .5 x Fw-190 2nd Lt Craig Kellici 2 x Fw-109 T/Sgt Bruce Woodside 1 x Bf-109 2nd Lt Tom Cassidy .5 x Fw-190 Casualties: 2 S/Sgt Mark Burnham SW/IH - broken rib, inflamed lung S/Sgt Peter Lesniak KIA – head, nasal cavity Stress Points after mission: 0 2nd Lt Craig Kellici S/Sgt Curt Mercado T/Sgt Bruce Woodside S/Sgt Mark Burnham Award/ Promotions Requests: 2 PH S/Sgt Mark Burnham PH Posthumous S/Sgt Peter Lesniak
After Action Report “Oh shit,” Talking Spirit complained loudly. “An extra long mission! Maybe I can get the flight surgeon to ground me.”
“It’s not like you to turn chicken, Chief,” Kostanaro said. “What’s up?”
“Where do I start?” he groused. “First of all is the the intense cold. My canopy tends to frost up or smear with dirt and oil, clouding my vision. The temperature gets colder the higher we climb. I’m often in temperatures of minus 30 - 40 degrees up there. These heated suits don’t do a hell of a lot. You plug it in as soon as you get into the ship and it’s so hot at ground level it burns my skin sometimes. Then, at 20,000 feet it’s so useless I sometimes wonder if it’s working at all. It doesn’t have a thermostat so it doesn’t remain at a constant temperature. Then there’s the danger that it gets so hot it puts me to sleep. And sleep can kill."
“Hey, we’re just as cold as you are,” Lesniak chipped in. “It’s colder inside the waist and tail than outside. Thanks to that bloody slipstream from the props driving that super cold wind in through the waist windows, it ain’t no picnic in these older F models.”
Even if Lesniak and his fellow waist gunner Burnham had been talking to strangers from a different crew, it was easy to tell that they were waist gunners. Both men had the ugly ‘saber scars’ on their cheeks, scarred by frostbite from the wind getting to their bare skin between helmet, goggles and oxygen mask common to waist gunners in the older F model B-17.
“Fine then,” Talking Spirit said. “Then let’s talk about the isolation. At least you have Burnham to talk to. As for me, first of all, I’m being dragged backwards in a fishbowl. I sit in silence while I hear everyone’s chatter speculating about what you can see ahead and when I finally see what you’re all talking about and give my opinion, you’ve all lost interest. And if the skipper decides that we should stay off the comms or if the box packs it in I’m on my own traveling backwards through enemy territory.”
“I’m just as isolated as you are,” Woodside countered. “There’s nobody else in the radio room but me.”
Talking spirit ignored the radio operator and continued to complain. “Then there’s the flak. The rest of you can at least see it ahead as we fly into it, but all I can do is wait for it to explode around me. All of a sudden, there’s red fire flashes and orange explosions on either side of me. Every time there’s a hit I hear a hollow bang and I wonder if that’s the one that’s taking us out.
“I don’t even get to see that,” replied Woodside. “I get an occasional view of one exploding above us, but that’s it. I think that it’s scarier in the radio room.”
“Well, one thing’s for sure, this mission isn’t going to get any shorter standing here, Mercado said climbing into Ivadin’ Maiden. “Let’s go! We’ve a schedule to keep.”
Once again we had a beautiful sky on take off. Everyone took off and formed up and we had it out and we settled in for a long flight.
Everything was fine for several hundred miles when two of Goring's Goons appeared in 190s. Our escorts quickly drove them away and we continued on.
After another 100 miles we came across two waves of fighters. Three more 190s came in with the same result of their 2 previous countrymen as the P-38s had a field day and feasted on all three. Just after the 190s were taken out a lone Italian G55 came in at 12 low and Kellici pumped enough lead into him serious difficulty. In Like Flynn reported that she was aborting, unable to make it over the Alps.
At the IP another wave of three 190. Our little friends engaged two of them but the third, attacking from 7:30 low put a cannon round into our waist killing Lesniak and severely injuring Burnham. The 190 swung around for another attack but failed to protect himself as a P-47 bounced him. We saw long flames as his plane went down and we all hoped the pilot was alive and roasting.
The flak started up and seemed to cover the sky it was so intense. Somehow, we managed to escape unscathed, but even so, it did knock us around a bit which caused Kellici to miss the mark, maybe getting 10% on target.
INBOUND
After our turn we came through some light flak which also missed us, and into a horde of waiting fighters beyond. Four 109 found us with no little friends in sight. But our gunners were now riled up at the loss of our waist gunners and Talking Spirit fired a short burst that hit the fuselage of one. The front of the fighter burst into flames and plummeted to the ground. Kostanaro fired at the 9 low fighter, hitting the engine, wing roots and fuselage. The fighter began to burn with its engine on fire and spiraled down to the ground, turning Kostano into an Ace gunner, the first of the crew to achieve this status, but he would be joined by three others before this mission was over.
In the 2nd wave consisting of two 190 and a 110, Mercado shot up a bandit at 9 high, causing the fighter to go into a spin, breaking up into pieces as it went down. Talking Spirit bagged his second of the day when a 190 on our six exploded in clouds of black and white smoke from a hit on its engine and it nosed ground wards. The 110 made a climbing attack and removed our right wing flap and destroyed the auto pilot. Returning at 4:30 level, Mercado damaged him enough to turn him from hero of the Reich to coward of the county. A third wave appeared but seemed to change their minds about pressing an attack. Bugs reported headed for Switzerland and we wished them good luck.
One hundred miles later, a 190 with two 109 in tow, saw a 109 and the 190 getting turned away by our fighters. The remaining 109 charged in from 12 level and into Kellici’s sights scoring hits on the engine and cockpit, causing the pilot to jettison his canopy and bail out.
Another 100 miles further we encountered two 190. Mercado damaged one that missed and left in a hurry while Cassidy and Kostanaro tagged teamed the other at 10:30 low. Their combined fire plastered the fighter which began to burn with its engine on fire. That half credit turned Lt Cassidy into an Ace as well.
A second wave of four 109 stepped up to the plate. Invadin’ Maiden shook as our gunners open up around the clock. Talking Spirit’s third victory of the day turned him into an Ace when his tracers slammed into a 109, hitting the engine, wing roots and fuselage and the Kraut exploded from the back of the engine and was engulfed in flame. Kostanaro damaged another while Mercado fired a long burst at the 6 high that caused pieces of it to fall off and the pilot to bail out. The stricken fighter then turned over and dived towards the ground below.
Just after we had cleared the Alps, Woodside reported that the radio had packed it in. His attempts to restore it to working order unsuccessful.
Three 190 attacked us about a hundred or so miles after that, giving Mercado his chance to join our Aces club against a Kraut at 3 level. The stricken fighter immediately turned over and dived towards the ground below. Kellici bagged his second as his fire scored hits on the wing root and fuselage causing the fighter to drop on fire and out of control. The smoke from the down fighters attracted another four 109 who all made rear attacks. Mercado, now an Ace, damaged a German Ace throwing off his aim. Woodside took aim at a 4:30 high. He raked the engine area and oil covered the fuselage and canopy and then catching fire. The pilot managed to bail out but he pulled his cord too soon and his chute caught fire ending his career. Talking Spirit pounded one at 6 low, the Messerschmitt flamed and began to disintegrate in midair. It was Talking Spirit’s fourth on the day.
One of the Krauts evaded our fire and put a harmless hole in the port wing. Returning to attack again at 4:30 low he destroyed the heating system for the waist section rendered the port wing flap useless and another harmless hole for good measure. Pressing a third attack from 4:30 level was one attack too many as Kostanaro fired a burst, scoring direct hits on the fighter and it exploded.
Further along three Italian Re-2001 singled us out. A P-47 danced with one while Mercado torched his fourth of the day as it fell thousands of feet before exploding.
A lone 109 was intercepted in close to home before he could do anything.
Once over home we fired off red flares and had the ambulance waiting by our hardstand.
It had been a long brutal mission that had highs and lows. On one hand, four crew members became Aces and altogether the crew shot down an incredible 14 enemy fighters with a probable and several damaged. But we also lost our two waste gunners and we missed the target. To a man the crew all said that they would gladly have traded every confirmed fighter today for the return of our two crewmates. Burnham will spend some time in the hospital before being shipped home to the states.
On a positive note, S/Sgt Noreno Costa is due to return after recovering from wounds. Our new man joining him in the waist is Sgt Tom Wakefield. K_m2WyHs1-6
1st Lt Franklin Marks, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS, 509th BG (Heavy), 15th AF
1-6
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ChefEd
78th Bomber Squadron
Posts: 471
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Post by ChefEd on Dec 17, 2023 10:45:05 GMT -8
B-17F Wimpy B-17F-27BO-41-24585 Squadron: 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group Squadron Position: Middle Aircraft Position: Middle / Lead Mission Date: 22 FEB 1944 Mission Number: 11 This Aircraft: 11 Target: Regensburg, Germany, Prufening Aircraft Factory CrewPosition | Rank / Name | Missions | Kills | Awards | Status | Stress | Pilot | 1st Lt Landry Velez | 11 | 0 | AM+ | RTD | 3 | Co-Pilot | 2nd Lt Santino Richards | 11 | 0 | AM+, PH | RTD | 4 | Navigator / NT | 2nd Lt George Sheets | 8 | 0 | AM | RTD | 0 | Bombardier | 2nd Lt Roberto Ford | 11 | 1 | AM+ | RTD | 2 | Engineer | T/Sgt Finnegan Fields | 11 | 9.33 | AM+ | RTD | 0 | Radio Op / Waist | Sgt Paul Nielson | 11 | 0 | AM+ | RTD | 1 | NT / Waist | T/3rd Ari Watkins | 11 | 4 | AM+, PH | RTD | 0 | Ball Turret | T/4th Tobias Mace | 11 | 3 | AM+ | RTD | 2 | Left Waist / NT | S/Sgt Tripp MacDougal | 11 | 0 | AM+ | RTD | 2 | Tail Gunner | T/4th Kingsley Griffin | 11 | 3 | AM+ | RTD | 1 | | | | | | | | Crew Chief | S/Sgt Josia Stanton | 8 | | 0 | Skill +0 | |
Bomb Run: On Target, 30 %Casualties: None Damage: Right Elevator Superficial X1 Peckham Points: 11, Ready next day Landing: Safe Enemy Aircraft:Type | Encountered | Driven Off | Damaged | Claimed | Awarded | Probable | Fw-190 | 19 | 11 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Bf-109 | 6 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0.5 | 0 | Bf-110 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Me-210 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0.5 | 0 | G.55 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Claims:Position | Claimed | Awarded | Probable | Right Waist | 2 | 1.5 | 0 | Top | 1 | 1 | 0 | Bombardier | 1 | 0.5 | 0 |
Awards: None Promotions: None AFTER ACTION REPORTIt wasn’t our time today. The number of missing planes, and empty places in the mess attested to the difficulty of the Regensburg raid. We came through with no wounded, and barely a scratch to Wimpy. The crew displayed no elation to their good fortune. Not that they felt an obligation to suppress it, but because it was another day. Another day they faced the uncertainty of combat, and came through, knowing that tomorrow, or the next day, they would face it again, and again. We were set on fairly consistently from San Marino outbound, to San Marino inbound. Escorts drove off about 60% of our attackers, while we shot down or damaged almost half of those that got through the escorts defensive screen. All in all, only 4 of 32 enemy aircraft got to us unopposed. A good day. Kudos to 2Lt Ford for putting 30% on target and getting half a credit on a Bf-109. Much gratitude to our " Little Friends". Submitted by, 1Lt Landry Velez, Pilot B-17F Wimpy 80th BS, 509th BG (H), 15th AF, USAAF
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Post by limburger59 on Dec 17, 2023 16:03:41 GMT -8
B-17F: GREEN HORNET Spare assigned to the 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Middle Squadron - Middle MISSION DATE: 22 FEB 44 MISSION NBR. 11 TARGET: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory
CREW from the Spare Pool Position – Rank (Current Mission) Pilot: 1LT Scott Livingston (6) AM Co-Pilot: 2LT Scott Fuller (5) Navigator: 2LT Stanley "Stan" Paige (6) [1] AM Bombardier: 2LT Duncan "Dunkster" Oreski (3) [.5] Engineer/TT: S/SGT Edwin "Walrus" Peabody (2) Radio Op: S/SGT Alan "The Gipper" Gipson (5) LW Ball Turret: SGT Keith "Tuck" Tugeon (6) AM Right Waist: SGT Allen "Al" Franklin (5) Left Waist: SGT Timothy "Cutty" Sarek (1) LW Tail Gunner: SGT Dave "Davey" Donners (4) LW
Bomb Run: DNB
Casualties: Three crew suffered Light Wounds: S/SGT Alan "The Gipper" Gipson, SGT Timothy "Cutty" Sarek, SGT Dave "Davey" Donners
B-17 Damage: Superficial x21 (21) Light Wounds x3 (6) Engine #1 - superficial (20) Engine #2 out (40) Radio Room Oxygen Fire (25) Tail Guns inop (20) Control Cables x2 (20) Bomb Controls inop (10) Bomb Bay Doors inop (10) Tailwheel inop (10) Radio out (10) Nose Heat out (10) Port Fuel Tank - self sealed (10)
Peckham Points: 212
Disposition: Interned in Switzerland
Attackers: 15 6x Bf-109: 2 Destroyed (confirmed), 1 Damaged (FCA), 1 Driven Off 9x FW-190: 2 Probables (FBOA), 2 Damaged (FCA), 2 Driven Off
Totals: 2 Destroyed, 2 Probables, 3 Damaged, 3 Driven Off
Award/Promotion Requests: Purple Heart: S/SGT Alan "The Gipper" Gipson, SGT Timothy "Cutty" Sarek, SGT Dave "Davey" Donners AFTER ACTION REPORT - Flying Beery variant for B-17 + jasta6's GAF charts:
Spare crew assigned to a Spare Bomber
A somewhat experienced crew out of the Spare Pool, tucked in the middle of the Middle Squadron. We assumed we'd be one mission closer to going home. Now we get a forced Switzerland "vacation" and the only skier on the crew has a leg wound.
OUTBOUND - Zones 2-9: Nothing to report. We were spectators to all the action, and safely crossed the Alps.
Zone 10: Overall we were feeling pretty cocky after fighting our way through Zone 10. In spite of the Walking Hits inflicted on us by an Ace, our gunners had scored two confirmed kills while a third bandit limped away as a Probable. In addition to those three, our Little Friends drove off another three E/A out of the eight total heading for our bomber. In exchange our Radio Operator suffered a cut on his arm and our Tail Guns were destroyed, though they never needed to fire another shot for the remainder of the mission.
TARGET ZONE 12: Five Butcher Birds converged on our B-17 while our diminishing escort was busy elsewhere. All five poured cannon shells into the Green Hornet while our gunners could only return minimal damage. The worse of it was the oxygen fire in the Radio Room, severed control cables (2x), a leg wound to our Tail Gunner, and the Bomb Bay Doors jammed shut. On the return pass they knocked out the heat to the Nose. It was time to descend to 10,000 feet and plot a course to Switzerland.
We may have been fortunate in one respect by getting hammered by the first wave. Looked like the Luftwaffe continued to follow the 509th deeper into Germany, as we seemed to escape notice, while later diversions to the Swiss border were accompanied by more enemy fighters.
INBOUND to SWITZERLAND: It was quiet for about the first 100 miles westward, and then two 109s found us. It may have been a training flight as one pilot was clearly green, yet in making multiple passes at us he was able to knock out our #2 engine. His instructor hit us multiple times but was less effective. Maybe they had limited ammo as they stopped firing after three passes and left us alone. We altered our course slightly after that encounter and tried to hide in the clouds. We assume that must have thrown off the Luftwaffe, as the next time we spotted a squadron of 109s we were able to make out the Swiss markings on them before we opened fire.
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Post by wolverinetoddy on Dec 17, 2023 18:06:01 GMT -8
B-17 Name: Pride of the Wolverines (11) Crew Commander: 1st Lt. HR Morrow Squadron: 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Formation: Middle Position: Middle
Mission Date: 22 Feb 44 Mission #: 11 Target: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory
Position: Name (mission #) {Claims After} Status Pilot: 1st Lt. HR Morrow (11) {0} AM: 2 Co-Pilot: 2nd Lt. H Whiting (11) {0} AM: 2 Bombardier: 2nd Lt. A Edwards (2) {0} Navigator: 2nd Lt. W Patterson (5) {2} PH Engineer: MSgt. L Aldrich (11) {9} AM, PH, DFC Ball Gunner: Sgt. A Blake (11) {6} AM, PH, DFC Radio Oper.: Sgt. A Casterline (11) {0} AM Pt Waist G: Sgt. A Eno (4) {0} Stbd Waist G: Sgt. W Hammond (6) {2} AM Tail Gunner: Sgt. M Laffin (11) {7} AM: 2, PH, DFC
Bomb Percentage: 0%
Bomber Disposition: Destroyed (n/a Peckham Points)
Casualties: n/a
Claims (BY TYPE): Attacked: (11:109, 3:190, 0:110) Damaged: (2:109, 1:190, 0:110) Destroyed: (6:109, 2:190, 0:110) W Patterson: 109, 109 L Aldrich: 109, 109 M Laffin: 190, 109 W Hammond: 109 A Blake: 190, 109
Special Note: W Patterson: AM A Blake: DFC for gunnery
Mission Description: File by 1st Lt. HR Morrow
We took off without incident and settled into the formation for our very long trip to Germany.
The outbound flight was quiet until Zone 8 where were attacked by a single 109. We missed him and he missed us.
Then the climb over the Alps. The majestic snow-covered peaks were a sight to behold and we took the briefest pause from the war to marvel at their beauty.
We came down from then mountains into a hornet’s nest of enemy planes. In Zone 10 a group of 109s attacked us. Patterson and Aldrich got two of them. We continued towards the target and the planes continued to come at us. The gunners were up for the task and shot down three more of them. At the same time, they started to wear down the Pride.
Over the target we encountered heavy flak that blew out the control cables. During the bomb run Whiting and I were barely able to keep her steady and there was really no way Edwards could hit the target.
We turned for home and the Luftwaffe escorted us out of Germany. We got safely back over the Alps and headed for home.
The Germans took one final stab at us in Zone 7 with a trio of 109s. We shot them all down.
By this point the Pride of the Wolverines was in trouble. The control cables were shot, the rudder wouldn’t respond, the ailerons wouldn’t move, and there were huge cracks in the windshield that made it very hard to see in front of us.
As we approached Foggia I looked over at Whiting. “What do you think Harry?” “Skipper, I think if we try to land this girl, she is going to fall apart.” “Glad you agree with me, let’s jump.”
I got on the intercom: “Boys, the Pride of the Wolverines has given us everything she has and then some. There is no way were going be able to land her safely.” “Casterline, signal the XO that we are leaving the formation. Then call the tower and tell them we are going to have to ditch.” “Ok, everyone get your parachutes on and get ready to jump. We have plenty of fuel, so take your time and do this safely.”
Whiting and I held her as steady as we could while the other 8 men jumped out of the plane. Whiting followed them I waited a minute before following him.
I gave the Pride of the Wolverines one final smile and jumped. I looked below me and counted 9 open parachutes floating towards the ground. Then I looked back up at the Pride of the Wolverines. She held course for about a minute before starting to nose down towards the sea.
All 10 of us landed safely and were picked up by army patrols. The Luftwaffe beat the Pride of the Wolverines today, but not until she shot down 8 fighters and brought 10 brave men home.
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Post by wolverinetoddy on Dec 17, 2023 18:09:31 GMT -8
B-17 Name: Holy Toledo! (5) Crew Commander: 1st Lt. J Van Dorn Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group Formation: High Position: Middle
Mission Date: 22 Feb 44 Mission #: 11 Target: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory22 Feb 44
Position: Name (mission #) {Claims After} Status Pilot: 1st Lt. J Van Dorn (11) {0} AM: 2, PH Co-Pilot: 2nd Lt. H Ruess (5) {0} AM, PH: 2 Bombardier 2nd Lt. W Wetherell (5) {0} AM Navigator: 2nd Lt. G Baker (5) {0} AM Engineer: MSgt. J Kershner (5) {4} AM Ball Gunner: Sgt. CP Taylor (5) {3} AM Radio Oper.: Sgt. RL McConnell (5) {1} AM Pt Waist G: Sgt. A Charles (5) {0} AM Stbd Waist G: Sgt. G Reynolds (5) {1} AM, PH Tail Gunner: Sgt. D Smith (5) {0} AM
Bomb Percentage: 0%
Bomber Disposition: Starboard Wing Root, Intercom, Autopilot, Engine Fire Extinguisher, Port Flap, Port Brake, Superficial Damage (45 Peckham Points)
Casualties: H Ruess: SW – 3 days in hospital RL McConnell: SW – 7 days in hospital
Claims (BY TYPE): Attacked: (5:109, 5:190, 1:110) Damaged: (2:109, 2:190, 0:110) Destroyed: (1:109, 0:190, 0:110) G Reynolds: 109
Special Note: 2nd Lt. H Ruess: AM 2nd Lt. W Wetherell: AM 2nd Lt. G Baker: AM MSgt. J Kershner: AM Sgt. CP Taylor: AM Sgt. RL McConnell: AM Sgt. A Charles: AM Sgt. G Reynolds: AM Sgt. D Smith: AM
Mission Description: Filed by 1st Lt. J Van Dorn, pilot commanding
We took off without incident and settled in for a very long trip to Germany.
The outbound flight was quiet until we got to the target zone. We were attacked by four 109s. Reynolds got one of them and they caused minor damage to the plane.
The flak caused major damage to the plane and wounded McConnell. In all the flak Wetherall missed the target and we turned for home.
We were chased back to the Alps by multiple waves of fighters that caused more damage and wounded Reuss.
We managed to get back over the Alps and headed for home. McConnell and Reuss will be fine in a few days. My butt will not be when Major finds out we missed the target for the second mission in a row.
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Keltos
Multiple Squadrons
Posts: 459
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Post by Keltos on Dec 18, 2023 3:50:00 GMT -8
After-Action ReportB-24J-25-CF-42-99887 – “Morning Express”78th Bomber Squadron, 509th Bombardment Group, 9th Air Force
Commander: 1st Lt. R. Winfield Mission Date: 22 February 1944 Mission Number: 11 Mission of this bomber: 3 Formation: LowPosition: Middle Target: Regensburg, Germany Target Type: Prufening Aircraft Factory Bomb Run: DNB CREWPosition | Rank - Name | Missions | Mission Kills | Total Kills | Awards | Status | Stress Point | Pilot | 1st Lt. Richard Winfield | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| POW | 0 | Co-Pilot | 2nd Lt. David Ogden
| 3 | 0 | 0 |
| POW | 1 | Bombardier | 2nd Lt. Thomas Banks
| 3 | 0 | 0 |
| POW | 1 | Navigator | 2nd Lt. Mark Bennett | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| POW | 0 | Engineer | T/Sgt Walter Miller | 3 | 0 | 1 |
| POW | 0 | Nose Gunner | Sgt Jimmy Bolanos | 3 | 0 | .5 |
| POW | 0 | Ball Gunner | S/Sgt Randy Green
| 3 | 0 | 1.5 |
| POW
| 1 | Port WG/Radio Op. | Sgt Richard Hansen
| 2 | 0 | 0 |
| KIA
| 0 | Starboard WG | Sgt Scott Mc Intyre
| 3 | 0 | 1 |
| POW | 0 | Tail Gunner | Sgt Abel Hutt
| 3 | 0 | 1 |
| POW
| 0 |
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Stanley Jackson (Average Joe) - 3 missions
E/A Encountered
Type | No. | Intercepted | Destroyed | Damaged | Fw-190 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Me-109 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Me-110 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | Re-2005 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | C-205 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Total | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
Claims:--Damage:
- Electrical System failure: controlled bailout Peckham Points: bomber crashed Casualties: Awards: AAR (flown with TFT)In Zone 10 outbound leg (over Germany), witnesses of 78th Squadron reported receiving a radio message in which 1st Lt Winfield warned of a general anomaly in the aircraft's electrical system and the need for a controlled bail-out. 9 parachutes were observed descending to the ground.
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Post by kozzackkelt on Dec 18, 2023 14:22:09 GMT -8
B-17G: CRAB CATCHER (B-17G-352YT-43-03655) Pilot: 2LT. Jacob Kramer Missions for this bomber: 1 Squadron: 80th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force Squadron Position: Middle Formation Mission Date: 22 FEB. 1944 Mission Number: 11 Target: Regensburg, Germany / Prufening Aircraft Factory
CREW (missions) {Stress Pts} E/A Wounds Pilot: 2LT. Jacob Kramer (1) {2} LW: face: cut lips, three missing teeth ( non-flying duties for 1-2 weeks, to be re-evaluated for combat duties) Co-Pilot: 2Lt. Charles Jerome (1) {} LW: minor laceration, left leg ( fit to continue combat duties) Bombardier: 2Lt. Marco Salgado (1) {1} [B%: 40] [+] .5xMe109, .5xMe110 Navigator: 2Lt. Steven Mosley (1) {} [+] 1xMe110 Engineer: Sgt. Pete Lamont (1) {1} [+] .5xMe109, .5xMe110 Radio Operator: Sgt. Ivan Hershovsky (1) { } Ball Turret: Sgt. Claude Deveroe (1) {} [++] 1xMe110, 1xMe210 P Waist Gunner: Sgt. Mark Johnson (1) { } LW: torn leg tendon (non-combat duties 2-3 weeks) SB Waist Gunner: Sgt. Andrew Brown (1) { } KIA: groin/bladder Tail Gunner: Sgt. Greg Edmunds (1) {-} KIA: severe laceration, neck
BOMB RUN: ON Target: 40%
Enemy Aircraft Encountered: 23 7xFw190, 10xMe109, 5xMe110, 1xMe210
Enemy Aircraft encountered: 12~ 8xFw190, 4xMe109, 5xMe110, 1xMe210
E/A Damaged: 3 E/A Probable: 1 E/A: Destroyed: 5 E/A Driven off by fighter escort: 7
Condition of B-17G CRAB CATCHER: Repairable (two days): According to report of maintenance crew chief Michael Coporatto, this bomber sustained the following battle damages: starboard flap inoperable, Engine two - OUT, Engine 1 - cowling missing, radio destroyed, bullet hole in pilot compartment window, 5xSuperficial hits
Mission AAR: [ written from base medical facility ] Take off and formed up with squadron with no problems. No encounters with E/A until reaching Germany. Attacked by various Luftwaffe fighters which inflicted minor damages to our bomber. Hit by flak on approach to target, no serious damage. Lt. Salgado brought us in ON TARGET with estimated 40% of our bombs hitting designated target. Defensive gunfire believed to have destroyed five enemy aircraft, four of which were twin-engine aircraft. Few enemy aviators were seen to exit their stricken aircraft. Out over the Adriatic, attacked savagely by what I believe to be a highly skilled E/A, probably a Fw190. His bullets and cannon shells inflicted multiple wounds on the crew, including myself, and knocked out engine 2. Landed safely, wounded taken to medical facilities.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jacob Kramer, 2LT, USAF Pilot- B-17G CRAB CATCHER 80th BS / 509th BG Foggia, Italy
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