Medic1 - Multiple squadrons

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE
Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Low / Tail
Missions This Bomber: 04
Mission Date: 11 March 44
Mission Number: 063
Mission Target: Toulon France - Sub Pens

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	4	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	4	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	4	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	4	0	1	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	4	1	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	4	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	4	1	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Eyota Little Buffalo	4	0	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	4	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Luis Ferlito	4	2	0	RTD

Bomb Run: Off
On Target: 0%
B-24 Damage: 2 Hit
Superficial x 2 (4)
Peckham Points: 4
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	2	1	0	1	0
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	2	0	1	0	0
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	4	1	1	1	0

Confirmed Claims: 1
2nd Lt Ken Hamilton 1 x Me-109
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests: 0

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We took off without any issues and after we were formed up, followed the lead for France.
Zone 2-6:Nothing to report.

Zone 7: Two 190 were our first test in the target zone. Romsberg damaged one at 12 level while Stelmach took out the other at 12 H (denied at interrogation). A second wave was fought off with formation fire.
The flak was all well away from us, but even with that and the fine weather in our favor, Romsberg managed to miss the target. He left a lot off dead fish for them to cook.
INBOUND

There wasn’t any flak to speak of after the turn and two 109 took advantage of this to latch onto us. Hamilton set one on fire and forced the pilot to jump for it while the second punch a couple of holes in us. A second strafing run failed and he moved on.
Zone 6-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed safely and taxied to our hardstand.

Highly disappointed to travel all that way and back just to miss the target. I’m sure the Major will have something to say about it.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th BS

[medic1]

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727
Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: High / Middle
Mission Date: 29 March 44
Mission Number: 064
Missions This Bomber: 4
Target: Bolzano, Italy - Marshaling Yard

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	9	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Moreland	9	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Del Rossetti	20	5.5	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Gus Corby	20	3	0	RTD
Engineer T/Sgt Drew Dunson	20	9	0	RTD
Radio Operator M/Sgt Simon Cassidy	20	3	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Frankie Arellano	20	7.5	0	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Mansfield	20	0	0	RTD
SWG T/Sgt Tony Mazzini	20	1.5	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Tom Welch	20	18.5	2	RTD

Bomb Run: Off

On Target: 0%
B-17 Damage: 2 Hits
Superficial x 1 (1)
Nose x 1
-bombardier LW (2)
Peckham Points: 3
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	11	1	2	1	5
Bf-110	3	1	0	1	2
Fw-190	0	0	0	0	0
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	14	2	2	2	7

Confirmed Claims: 2
Sgt Tom Welch 1 x Bf-109, 1 x Bf-110
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests: 1
PH 2nd Lt Del Rossetti
OLC to Air Medal (3rd Award)-2nd Lt Del Rossetti, 2nd Lt Gus Corby, T/Sgt Drew Dunson, M/Sgt Simon Cassidy, S/Sgt Frankie Arellano, S/Sgt Curtis Mansfield, T/Sgt Tony Mazzini, Sgt Tom Welch
Promoted to 1st Lt. - Del Rossetti and Gus Corby
Promoted to S/SgtSgt - Tom Welch 

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: We lifted off in fine weather and without any issues.

Zone 2-3: Nothing to report.
Zone 4: Some Jerries tried to move in on the squadron but were warded off by defensive fire.
Zone 5: Nothing to report.
Zone 6: From the IP to the flak field, we encountered three waves of Herr Goering’s Goons:
1st wave – Two 109 that were chased of by P-38’s.

2nd wave – Four 109 with two suffering lightning strikes. Arellano took out another at 3 low (denied at interrogation) and Rossetti damaged the other at 12 level, throwing off the pilot’s aim and he broke off after his snap burst.

3rd wave – Three 109 and a 110. A little friend chased off a 109 at 12 level while Welch hammered a 109 coming in at 6 high. The fighter was seen to limp away but was unconfirmed as going down.

The 110 missed from 12 high and as he whipped by the tail, Welch hit the 110 on the port side of the engine and fuselage. It turned over on its back and spun out of control and one chute was seen.

The remaining 109 hit us in the nose, rendering a cut to Rossetti’s stomach. The 109 returned at 6 low and Welch, who was on his game riddled it, hitting the engine, wing roots and fuselage and the Kraut exploded from the back of the engine and was engulfed in flame.

The flak didn’t cause us any problems, but Rossetti, hampered by his wound and the smoke from the smoke pots failed to hit anything target worthy.

INBOUND

The flak again failed to find us, but two fighter waves did:

1st wave – Two 109 and a 110 with an Ace at the controls. The 110 turned away to meet one of our Lightning riders and a 109 at 9 H hit the port wing for little damage or effect. He tried again from 1:30 where Dunson took him out (denied at interrogation). 

 Nothing came from the other 109 as we just traded shots and he moved on to other targets.

2nd wave – A single 110 attempted to strafe us but bugged out when a P-38 latched onto his tail.
Zone 5a-2: Nothing to report.

Zone 1: Rossetti demanded that we not fire off a flare to alert the ground that we had an injured man citing that the medics should look after someone who was in real need of their efforts.

We landed fine, whisked Rossetti off to the hospital (where he was treated and released) and made our way to interrogation.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE
Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Low / Middle, Lead from zone 4 outbound
Missions This Bomber: 05
Mission Date: 29 March 44
Mission Number: 064
Mission Target: Bolanzo, Italy – Marshaling Yard

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	5	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	5	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	5	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	5	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	5	1	2	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	5	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	5	1	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Eyota Little Buffalo	5	0	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	5	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Luis Ferlito	5	2	1	RTD

Bomb Run: On
On Target: 30%
B-24 Damage: 11 Hits
Superficial x 2 (4)
Pilot’s Compartment x 1
-window, N/E (5)
Port Wing x 3
-superficial (6)
Starboard Wing x 1
-wing root (25)
Bomb Bay x 1
-rafts destroyed (10)
Waist x 1
-superficial (2)
Tail x 2
-wing root (25)
-elevator inop (10)
Peckham Points: 87
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	9	1	0	0	3
Bf-110	4	1	0	0	1
Fw-190	10	1	2	0	5
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	23	3	2	0	9

Confirmed Claims: 3
S/Sgt Roy Stelmach 2 x Fw-190
Sgt Luis Ferlito 1 x Bf-110
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:
AM (1st Award) Entire crew

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We took off without any issues and formed up.
Zone 2-3: Nothing to report.

Zone 4: We saw a gaggle of fighters that broke up and came at a few of us in the formation. Two 190 singled us out but Hamilton tore some parts off of one with a cheek MG that left some doubt as to the fate of the pilot and aircraft as he limped away trailing smoke. Stelmach took out the other one with a well-aimed burst that set it on fire and forced the pilot to bail out.
 After the fighters left, Roll n Tuck II, who in the lead, reported that the fighters had mauled her enough to force them to leave the formation and return to Giulia. We then assumed the lead.
Zone 5: The German’s were out in force today, and two waves attempted to ruin our day.
1st wave - Four 190 with three of them diverted by some little friends. The remaining 190 at 12 H hit our starboard wingroot and returned for another try that missed causing any further damage.
2nd wave – Defensive fire turned this wave away.
Zone 6: In the target zone we faced off with another two waves.
1st wave – Four 110 with one green pilot and an Ace. One of the four fell to a Lightning Rider, and the green pilot to Ferlito’s guns as he passed by his tail position.
 The Ace at 12 H hit us in the waist and a tail wing root. For his encore performance he destroyed our life rafts which lead to a second curtain call whereas he put two minor strikes into the airframe and blew off the port tail elevator.
2nd wave – Two 190 with one diverted by escorts. We traded shots with the other and both continued on our separate ways.
The flak was inaccurate but Romsberg wasn’t as he redeemed himself for missing on the previous mission.
INBOUND

After the turn, a nearby flak burst sent a chunk of shrapnel into the main window and left it cracked but in one piece and another piece left a small hole in a wing.
 And then there two waves of fighters beyond the flak.
1st wave – Five 109. A P-38 challenged an Ace at 9 H while the remaining four engaged us in a contest to see who could waste the most ammo.
2nd wave – Two 109 at 3 Lo with an Ace at 12 H. The 3 Lo missed but the Ace wanted a pound of flesh and hit the port wing twice for no noticeable effect. He returned at 10:30 and Stelmach pummeled his prop and engine area, setting him on fire and forcing another Nazi superman to jump for his life.
Zone 5a: Nothing to report.
Zone 5b: Another two waves.
1st wave – Turned away by formation fire.
2nd wave – Two 190 at 12 H, one flown by a green pilot. The veteran pilot was shot down by an escort and Romsberg took out the rookie (denied at interrogation).
Zone 4: Escorts chased off two 109.
Zone 3-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed safely and taxied to our hardstand.

A bit of a rough one, but we came through it in one piece. The ground crew might argue that point as they’ll be up all night repairing Sue, but they say she’ll fly tomorrow if need be.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th B

[medic1]

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle
Mission Date: 5 April 44
Mission Number: 065
Missions This Bomber: 5
Target: Ploesti Romania - Oil Refineries

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	10	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Moreland	10	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Del Rossetti	21	5.5	2	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Gus Corby	21	3	0	RTD
Engineer T/Sgt Drew Dunson	21	9	2	RTD
Radio Operator M/Sgt Simon Cassidy	21	3	0	KIA
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Frankie Arellano	21	7.5	3	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Mansfield	21	0	0	RTD
SWG T/Sgt Tony Mazzini	21	1.5	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Tom Welch	21	20.5	0	RTD

Bomb Run: On

On Target: 30%
B-17 Damage: 23 Hits
Superficial x 3 (1)
Nose x 5
-superficial x 3 (3)
-nav equipment destroyed (10)
-bombardier heat controls destroyed (10)
PC x 1
-oxygen out & fire, 1 extinguisher (35)
Port Wing x 1
-superficial (1)
Starboard Wing x 5
-3 x superficial (3)
-#3 runaway [using new runaway rules] (35)
-wing root (25)
Radio Room x 2
-radio operator KIA (10)
-radio destroyed (10)
Bomb Bay x 1
-superficial (1)
Waist x 1
-superficial (1)
Tail x 5
-superficial (1)
-tailplane, N/E (5)
-port wing root (25)
-tail wheel damaged (10)
-oyygen system hit, N/E (5)
Peckham Points: 191
Repair Time: 4 days & will be back at Giulia for mission 066
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Lecce

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	17	5	4	2	3
Bf-110	11	1	0	1	4
Fw-190	2	0	1	0	1
Ju-88	3	1	1	0	1
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	33	7	6	3	9

Confirmed Claims: 7
2nd Lt Del Rossetti 1 x Bf-109, 1 x Ju-88
T/Sgt Drew Dunson 1 x Bf-109, 1 x Bf-110
S/Sgt Frankie Arellano 3 x Bf-109
Casualties: 1
M/Sgt Simon Cassidy KIA, severed thigh
Award/ Promotions Requests: 1
PH Posthumous M/Sgt Simon Cassidy
OLC to Air Medal (1st Award)-1st Lt Dan Shantz, 2nd Lt Mike Morland

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: We lifted off in fine weather and without any issues or gremlins.

Zone 2-7: Nothing to report.
Zone 8: At the IP we encountered two 190 and a 110 who breezed through our escorts and took a run at us. After it was said and done, Welch had nailed a 190 (downgraded to a probable at interrogation).

The flak was heavy and we were knocked around by four hits, but somehow Rossetti managed to get 30% onto some storage tanks that lit up like the fourth of July.

INBOUND

The flak was just as bad after the turn and hit the tail plane and right wing root. Our nerves were just calming down when two waves of fighters tried a 1 – 2 knockout punch.
1st wave - Two 109 (3 lev/green pilot, 10:30 H) and a 110 (10:30 H). Rossetti damaged the rookie pilot, who snapped off a wide burst and zoomed off while Dunson did the same to the other 109. The 110 was a cool customer and ignored our fire to walk hits along our length, doing in Cassidy, destroying our nav equipment, hitting the tail wing root and sparked an oxygen fire in the cockpit that caused some anxiety until Moreland managed to put it out. He circled around for another try but missed us. With our oxygen out, we were force to leave formation and leveled off at Angels eight with the crew understandably on edge.
2nd wave – Some flak popped off but was wide as we watched the group pull away from us. The second wave of Goering’s Goon’s swarmed in with four 109’s licking their chops (12 H/green pilot, 9 Lev, 3 H & 1:30 Lev), and no help from any little friends.
Rossetti fired a burst at the 12 H, scoring direct hits on the it and it exploded. Arellano bagged the 9:00 (denied at interrogation), Dunson and Mazzini tag-teamed the 3:00, but neither could confirm if he went down or not. The two remaining 109’s missed but took advantage of our being out of formation and returned for another run. Arellano made the 1:30 Messerschmidt pay for that decision as his burst flamed it and it began to disintegrate in midair, the pilot failing to get clear. The last fighter tried and missed on this and another try.

Zone 7, turn 1: Some light flak burst away from us while Corby was doing his best to get us home without any nav gear. He swears that we’re on the right track.

Zone 7 turn 2: More flak, but no fighters. Corby thinks that we’ve strayed a bit but isn’t sure by how much, and is keeping a look out for some landmarks.

Zone 6 turn 1: More flak well away, but three Ju-88’s made a beeline for us. A lone Mustang dropped down to help out and chased one off. Rossetti scored on one at 12 H, hitting him head on in the engine and wing causing the 88 to flip over and drop towards the ground trailing heavy black smoke. A second 88 at 12:00 destroyed Rossetti’s heat controls and came around for another try but Welch hit him hard enough to make him break off in much difficulty.

Zone 6 turn 2: Corby is sure that we’re way off our path now. Thankfully, so was the flak. Three 110 were all set to carve us up, but we had some mustangs spot our predicament and came down to change their minds.

Zone 5 turn one: The flak again was all well away, but Corby figures with some dead reckoning that we were back on course.

Zone 5 turn two: Every Kraut flak gun must have been told to be on alert for us. But they’ve all been poor shots so far. Five 109 ganged up on us and we again had to fight for our lives. A P-51 tangled with one of them to lower the odds a mite while Dunson and Arellano further cut down the odds dropping two others. Rossetti also had a probable in the exchange. The last 109 made three runs but left, probably low or out of ammo. 

Zone 4 turn one: Off course and flak.

Zone 4 turn two: Still off course, but the flak hit a wing, knocked out our radio and Arellano reports that the tail wheel took a hit as well.

Zone 3 turn one: By Corby’s calculations, we were still off course. Six more of Goering’s Goons (12 h, 12 Lev, 3 H, 1:30 H & a green pilot in a steep VD). Two mustangs chanced along and coxed two of them away. Rossetti and Dunson hit the 12 H but lost sight of him in the dust up and listed him as probable. The green pilot took out the #3 engine and it ran away from us, causing the entire plane to shake and vibrate. Three fighters returned with another P-51 coming to tangle with one of them. Dunson damaged one that returned fire and put two into us. His third attack failed and he was gone. The last fighter was damaged by Arellano and broke off.

Zone 3 turn two: Off course, lost and three 110. A little friend took care of one of them and Dunson bagged another. Welch damaged the third who struck back with three of his own. He left after two more tries.

Zone 2 turn one: Nothing to report.

Zone 2 turn two: We sighted the Italian coast, could see any familiar landmarks and knew that we were far off course.

Zone 1: We found ourselves far south of where we should have been, but spotted a B-24 base that turned out to be Lecce. Despite all of our damage, made a safe language. 

The crew watched silently as Cassidy’s body was removed and they stared after the ambulance until it made a turn and line of sight blocked by a building.
They walked around Vicious Vixen, inspecting the damage.
“Damn . . .” Arellano gave a low whistle. “You see what I’m seeing Tony?
“Yeah,” Mazzini replied not taking his eyes off the tail section. “Sure is a lot of daylight through that hole. How’d it stay on?”
Welch came up to stand beside them and also stared at the mangled wing root. “You should have been in the tail when it hit. I lost five pounds - all of it brown.”
Shantz and Moreland were inspecting the holes that had peppered the Plexiglas nose.
“It’s a wonder that Cassidy was the only one hit.” Moreland marveled. “And he was just five missions from going home.”
“None of us would probably be standing here if you hadn’t gotten that fire out. It was a near thing. My flight suit has burns on it.”
“I guess we should go and find the communications hut and get a message to the Major.” Moreland said, changing the subject, not wanting to dwell on it.
“And then find the bar.” Added Shantz.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

New RO: Bruce Woodside 9cLzNJGA1-6

1-6

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE
Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: High / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 06
Mission Date: 5 April 44
Mission Number: 065
Mission Target: Ploesti Romania - Oil Refineries

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	6	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	6	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	6	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	6	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	6	3	1	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	6	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	6	1	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Eyota Little Buffalo	6	0	0	KIA
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	6	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Luis Ferlito	6	3	0	RTD

Bomb Run: Off
On Target: 0%
B-24 Damage: 10 Hits
Superficial x 1 (2)
Port Wing x 1
-#2 engine out & feathered (35)
Starboard Wing x 5
-superficial x 2 (4)
-wing root (25)
-outboard fuel tank, self-seal (5)
-aileron inop (10)
Bomb Bay x 1
-doors, N/E (5)
Waist x 1
-PWG KIA (10)
Tail x 1
-stbd elevator inop (10)
Peckham Points: 106
Repair Time: 2 days
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	8	0	1	0	0
Bf-110	5	1	0	1	1
Fw-190	6	0	0	0	4
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	19	1	1	1	5

Confirmed Claims: 1
S/Sgt Roy Stelmach 1 x Bf-110
Casualties: 1
Sgt Eyota Little Buffalo, KIA. Shattered ribs and punctured lung.
Award/ Promotions Requests:
PH Posthumous Sgt Eyota Little Buffalo

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We took off without any issues and formed up.
Zone 2-6: Nothing to report.

Zone 7: A lone 190 tried to single us out but failed to get through our escorts.
Zone 8: The German’s were out in force today, and were buzzing about like a horde of angry hornets. Three waves hit us on the way to the target.
1st wave – Two 109 (9 H, 6 low) and a 110 (9 Level). The 109’s made quick passes and immediately moved on unscathed by our fire while the 110 pummeled us with five hits, taking out Little Buffalo, hitting a wing root and the bomb bay doors. On a second pass, his aim was thrown off as Stelmach took some chunks off of him and he failed to hit again. But he had done his damage.
2nd wave – Two 190 (12 Low & high) and two 109 (12 Lo & Level). The 12 level 109 put a hole in us and all other attacks failed to hit.
3rd wave – Two 110 (10:30 Lev & 12 H). Stelmach set an engine on fire and the crew bailed out. The other 110 escaped.

The flak was brutal but missed us. But between the flak, fighters and all the smoke from smoke pots and fires burning all over, Romsberg couldn’t accurately drop our payload and was off target. No payback for Little Buffalo’s life.

INBOUND

After the turn, a nearby flak burst shook us pretty good as it hit an engine, forcing a shut down and feathering of the prop while rendering the right rear elevator inoperable.
1st wave - Once passed the flak we were jumped by four 109’s (10:30 high & level/green pilot, 12 level & high). A lot of ammo was wasted, but their shooting was just as bad and we soon were clear of them.
2nd wave – One 109 at 12 Level who took some hits from Romsberg. The fighter was listed as a probable at interrogation.
Zone 7-6: Nothing to report.
Zone 5: Another two waves.
1st wave – Two 110 at 9 level and 12 low. The 9:00 was chased off by a little friend while Ferlito damaged the other, who failed to do any damage to us.
2nd wave – Three 190 attempted to charge in but were themselves jumped on by some hungry Mustang riders eager to add to their tallies.
Zone 4: Nothing to report
Zone 3: Turned away by formation fire.
Zone 2: Nothing to report
Zone 1: We fired off some flares and despite the damage landed safely and taxied to our hardstand.

We were roughed up pretty good with nothing to show for it. We lost Little Buffalo, our first loss, and we failed to hit the target.
The ground crew will be working hard to get Sue back into the fight. Ralston figures it’ll take a day or two, but he and his boys will have her ready for the next mission.

Our replacement PWG is Sgt Thomas Cantrell

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th B

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted
B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727
Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle
Mission Date: 16 April 44
Mission Number: 066
Missions This Bomber: 6
Target: Brasov, Romania - Marshaling Yard

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	11	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Moreland	11	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Del Rossetti	22	7.5	1	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Gus Corby	22	3	0	RTD
Engineer T/Sgt Drew Dunson	22	11	0	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	1	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Frankie Arellano	22	10.5	1	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Mansfield	22	0	0	RTD
SWG T/Sgt Tony Mazzini	22	1.5	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Tom Welch	22	20.5	1	RTD

Bomb Run: On

On Target: 40%
B-17 Damage: 2 Hits
Port Wing x 1
-superficial (1)
Radio Room x 2
-superficial (1)
Peckham Points: 2
Repair Time: End of day
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	2	0	0	0	2
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	7	2	1	1	1
Ju-88	2	1	0	0	1
Me-410	1	0	1	0	0
TOTALS	12	3	2	1	4

Confirmed Claims: 3
2nd Lt Del Rossetti 1 x Fw-190
S/Sgt Tom Welch 1 x Fw-190
S/Sgt Frankie Arellano 1 x Ju-88
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests: 1

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: We lifted off in fine weather and without any issues or gremlins.

Zone 2: Nothing to report.
Zone 3: Some fighters came across the squadron but were fought off with some strong defensive fire.
Zone 4-6: Nothing to report.
Zone 7: We figured that the Jerry’s must know where we were at this stage, and sure enough, two 109’s appeared. They didn’t stick around long as some Mustangs pounced on them.
Zone 8: At the IP we encountered two waves of Goering’s Goons:
1st Wave – Three 190 that were reduced to two as a P-51 engaged one at 10:30. The other two split up our fire as they came in at 12 high and level. Rossetti was on his game as he targeted the level 190, hitting the engine, wing roots and fuselage and the Kraut exploded from the back of the engine and was engulfed in flame. The pilot managed to bail out on fire, which caught onto his chute as it opened and burned away, dropping him like a rock.
 The 12 high swapped shots with Dunson and with nothing decided by it, he moved on to other targets.
2nd Wave – A lone 190 came in at 6 level and must have had his aim thrown off a tad as Welch knocked some pieces off and forced him to leave in a hurry.
 The flak was all over the sky with none finding us. Unlike the flak, Rossetti found his target and made some people mighty unhappy on the ground as he dropped for 40%. We noticed several good results from the others around us as well.

INBOUND

The flak found the range as shrapnel hit us twice, with both hits being minor and no cause for concern.
 A single 190 tried to take us out from 6 high, but our multiple Ace Welch and his tail guns had something to say about that. He scored hits on hit the engine and cockpit, the fighter shuttered, tried to climb and then just fell out of control like a falling leaf. Zone 7, turn 1: Some light flak burst away from us while Corby was doing his best to get us home without any nav gear. He swears that we’re on the right track.

Zone 7-4: Nothing to report.

Zone 3: As we passed near Mostar we had two waves of Goons on us.

1st Wave – Two 190 and a 410. A 190 Ace at 12 low evaded our fire but missed us in return and left the scene. Dunson and Colby both took out the remaining 190 and 410 (and both denied at interrogation).
2nd Wave – Two Ju-88 with a mustang dropping one. The other came in at 9 lo where Mansfield missed him, but Arellano’s fire set the engine on fire and it exploded in a bright fireball.

Zone 2: Nothing to report.

Zone 1: We landed without difficulty and the crew disembarked in a jubilant mood. We had hit the target; the crew had added three more swastikas to our nose and the ground crew will have an easy time of it and be able to call it early today.
All in all, a milk run.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE
Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 07
Mission Date: 16 April 44
Mission Number: 066
Mission Target: Brasov, Romania - Marshaling Yard

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	7	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	7	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	7	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	7	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	7	4	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	7	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	7	1	2	RTD
PWG Sgt Eyota Little Buffalo	1	0	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	7	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Luis Ferlito	7	3	0	RTD

Bomb Run: On
On Target: 30%
B-24 Damage: 2 Hits
Flight Deck
-superficial x 1 (2)
Port Wing x 1
-superficial x 1 (2)
Peckham Points: 4
Repair Time: A matter of hours, then routine maintenance
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	3	1	1	0	0
Bf-110	1	1	0	0	0
Fw-190	0	0	0	0	0
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	4	2	1	0	0

Confirmed Claims: 1
Sgt Bill Kadlec 1x Bf-109, 1 x Bf-110
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We took off without any issues and formed up.
Zone 2-6: Nothing to report.

Zone 7: A lone 109 appeared and came in at 12 high where Romsberg nailed him with some accurate fire. However, his claim was denied at interrogation.
Zone 8: While there were lots of fighters about, we didn’t have much trouble over the target as the only Krauts that seemed to pose any threat were repelled by defensive fire.
The flak was also of little threat as it was all well away from us. Romsberg must have been fed up with all the ass chewing he’s been getting from the old man and Capt. Jopp and turned in a fine drop of 30%.

INBOUND

We made our turn and headed for the rally point with the flak still not posing any problems.
Two 109 did try to ruin our day, but Kadlec ended one German’s flying career at 6 low while the other failed to cause any damage and moved on to try his luck on another bomber.
Zone 7-4: Nothing to report.
Zone 3: A 110 proved to be a better shot than any opposition we encountered this mission, which wasn’t saying much as the damage he caused was minor. On his second pass, Kadlec again pelted the 110 and it went down with one engine ablaze and the other smoking badly. Two chutes were seen.
Zone 2: Nothing to report
Zone 1: We landed in foul weather, but the crew’s mood was bright and sunny.We had a milk run, hit the target, denied the Luftwaffe of another two aircraft and the crew all came home safe.

The ground crew have a minimum amount of work to do on Sue and will have her ready for the next mission in short order.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th B

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: High / Lead
Mission Date: 24 April 44
Mission Number: 067
Missions This Bomber: 7
Target: Ploesti, Romania - Marshaling Yard

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	12	0	0	LW
Co-Pilot Major James Tolliver	10	0	0	LW
Bombardier 2nd Lt Del Rossetti	22	8.5	1	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Gus Corby	22	3	0	RTD
Engineer T/Sgt Drew Dunson	22	12	1.5	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	1	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Frankie Arellano	22	11.5	1	KIA
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Mansfield	22	0	0	RTD
SWG T/Sgt Tony Mazzini	22	1.5	2^	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Tom Welch	22	21.5	1	SW/IH

^both confirmed fighters confirmed while operating tail gunners position
Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit for a downed 190 while manning RR MG
Bomb Run: On

On Target: 30%
B-17 Damage: 38 Hits
Superficial x 7 (7)
Nose x 4
-superficial x 2 (2)
-bombardier heat out (10)
-bomb sight destroyed (10)
Pilot’s Compartment x 7
-superficial x 3 (3)
- pilots oxygen, N/E (5)
-instruments, flap controls (10)
-pilot & copilot LW (4)
-pilot’s oxygen out (10)
Port Wing x 7
-superficial x 2 (2)
- flap, inoperable (10)
-wing root x 2 (50)
-inboard fuel tank, self-sealed (5)
-#2 engine out (35)
-#1 engine out (35)
Starboard Wing x 4
-superficial x 2 (2)
-flap, inoperable (10)
-inboard fuel tank, self-sealed (5)
Radio Room x 1
-superficial (1)
Bomb Bay x 2
-superficial (1)
-bombs, N/E (5)
-doors, N/E (5)
Waist x 4
-superficial x 2 (2)
-BT gunner KIA (10)
-SW MG inoperable (10)
Tail x 2
-superfical (1)
-TG SW (5)
Peckham Points: 255
Repair Time: 5 days
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	5	1	1	1	0
Bf-110	8	1	1	2	1
Fw-190	18	3	3	2	4
Ju-88	2	1	0	1	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	33	6	4	6	5

Confirmed Claims: 6
T/Sgt Tony Mazzini 1 x Ju-88, 1 x Fw-190
T/Sgt Drew Dunson 1.5 x Fw-190
2nd Lt Del Rossetti 1 x Bf-110
S/Sgt Frankie Arellano 1 x Bf-109
2nd Lt Mike Morland .5 x Fw-190
Casualties: 4
S/Sgt Frankie Arellano KIA
S/Sgt Tom Welch, groin cut. Invalidated home
Major James Tolliver, shoulder cut. Treated & RTD
1st Lt Dan Shantz, hand cut. Treated & RTD
Award/ Promotions Requests:
PH Posthumously S/Sgt Frankie Arellano
PH S/Sgt Tom Welch
PH Major James Tolliver
PH 1st Lt Dan Shantz

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: We lifted off in fine weather and without any issues or gremlins and assumed the lead for the squadron. .

Zone 2-4: Nothing to report.
Zone 5: Two waves of fighters appeared:
1st Wave – Three 110 (12 high, level & 3 high) with escorts driving off one of them at 3 H. The only thing of note from the exchange was that Dunson damaged the 12 high.
2nd Wave – Three 190 with two drawn away by Mustangs. The other escaped without any damage to us as well.
Zone 6: Defensive fire drove off a wave of attackers.
Zone 7: Four 190 (2 @ 12 high 6 & 1:30 high). P-51’s cut the odds by two. No damage to either side.
Zone 8: Three 109 (12 high & low, 9 9 lev) and a 110 (6 level). Arellano (BT) takes out the 109 at 9 level, Welch gets the 110 at 6 level (denied). Damage from 109 12 high to pilot’s oxygen to no effect. Fighter returned and scored hits to bombs – no effect, bombardiers heating system – out and 109 returns at 12 low where Rossetti damages him. Return fire scores two minor hits and another pass destroys right wing flap.
Heavy flak renders left wing flap inoperable.
Bombs on target, 30%.

INBOUND

Six flak hits. Arellano (BT) KIA, Welch (TG) severe belly wound. Port wing root damage, pilot’s oxygen out, all flap controls inoperable.
Three fighter waves.
1st Wave – Two 109 (both 12 high) and a 110 (3 low). Dunson (TT) damages a 109. Other walked hits along the fuselage. Pilot and co-pilot both lightly wounded, other hits minor.
2nd Wave – Three 190 (2 x 12 high, 3 high) Dunson (TT) bags a 12 high. Rossetti (chin) and Mazzini (RWG) both damage the others.
3rd Wave – Four 190 (12 high & low, 10:30 High, 3 level). Successive attacks hit many times. Port waist MG inoperable. Right wing inboard fuel tank hit, self-sealed (was actually a leak, but I used a rabbit’s foot and thankfully made the roll).
Zone 7: Announced to squadron that we were leaving formation due to oxygen out. Ordered Mazzini (RWG) to take over as tail gunner. No one else was small enough to assume the ball turret.
Light flak, no hits. Two Ju-88 make repeated attacks. One shot down, one damaged. Take two hits. Number one engine out and feathered and a minor hit.
Zone 6: Flak, but no hits. Four 190 and no help from little friends. Repeated attacks resulted in three downed. Damage extensive. Left inboard fuel tank hit but sealed. Number 2 engine out and feathered. Bomb-sight destroyed and other hits superficial.

Zone 5 (turn 1): Two engines out, airspeed reduced. Had ammo moved from ball turret and RWMG to chin and TT, who were both running dangerously low. More light flak and fighters. Rossetti (chin) nailed a 110 Ace. Left wing root hit plus four minors.
Zone 5 (turn 2): Flak. No fighters.
Zone 4-2 (all turns): Some flak, but clear of fighters.

Zone 1: Fired off red and yellow flares. Landing was a bit dicey with all the damage, but landed safely.
Arellano was a popular member of the crew and will be missed. The fact that he and most of the crew only need 2 missions to earn a trip home makes his death harder to take.

Welch will be going home early. But he will be spending a lot of time recovery and rehab.

Their replacements are Sgt Ed Kostnaro and Sgt Jerry Powers, who will man the RW MG.
Mazzini proved that he can handle the tail guns and I’ve decided to move him there for his last missions.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Low / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 08
Mission Date: 24 April 44
Mission Number: 067
Mission Target: Ploesti, Romania - Marshaling Yard

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	8	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	8	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	8	0	1	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	8	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	8	4	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	8	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	8	3	1	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	2	0	0	LW
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	8	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Luis Ferlito	8	3	0	SW/IH

Bomb Run: On
On Target: 40%
B-24 Damage: 20 Hits
Superficial x 2 (4)
Nose x 3
-superficial x 2 (4)
-bomb sight (10)
Port Wing x 6
-superficial x 5 (4)
-#2 engine, N/E (35)
-flap x 3 (20)
Starboard Wing x 1
-wing root (25)
Bomb Bay x 2
-superficial (2)
-doors (2)
Waist x 2
- superficial (2)
-PWG LW (2)
Tail x 4
-superficial (2)
-turret out (10)
-TG SW/IH (5)
-tail plane (5)
Peckham Points: 142
Repair Time: 2 days
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	13	1	1	2	5
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	9	1	1	0	4
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	22	2	2	2	9

Confirmed Claims: 2
2nd Lt Tony Romsberg 1 x Fw-190
Sgt Bill Kadlec 1 x Fw-190
Casualties: 2
Sgt Thomas Cantrell LW. Neck grazed, treated & RTD
Sgt Luis Ferlito, SW/IH. Groin cut & inflamed bladder.
Award/ Promotions Requests:
PH Sgt Thomas Cantrell
PH Sgt Luis Ferlito

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We took off without any issues and formed up.
Zone 2-6: Nothing to report with the exception of Roll n Tuck II getting beat on by the Krauts and having to abort.

Zone 7: A 190 appeared with two 109, but before they could move in, they were intercepted by some P-51’s.
Zone 8: Once we entered the target zone, the Germans ramped up their opposition and somewhere along the way, Capt. Jopp and crew had aborted. Two waves chose to pick on us.
1st Wave – Five 190 (VD/green pilot, 6 high/green, 12 level/green, 3 high/Ace & 12 high) started in with several hits that resulted in our tail guns and gunner out of action. We scored one and a probable.
2nd Wave – Driven off by formation fire.
Heavy flak knocked us about, but despite the jostling as the tail plane was hit and smoke from smoke pots and fires, Romsberg managed to drop for 40%. That ought to keep the Old Man and Capt. Jopp off our tails for a while.

INBOUND

Between the flak and fighters, the 78th had a lot of misses. We made our turn and headed for the rally point with the flak chasing us, striking a superficial hit to the #2 engine. Dinah Might was seen going down, but we couldn’t get a chute count as fighters swarmed in and we became busy.
Two waves of fighters moved in to add to our damage and trying to have us share Dinah Might’s fate:
1st Wave – Two 109 (3 & 6 high) hit us five times on their first pass, none much cause for concern. On their second try one of them might have gone down but is listed as a probable.
2nd Wave – Two 109 (3 & 12 level) that over the course of action scored hits on us, the worst of it knocking out a flap and bombsight. We damaged one and Kadlec knocked down the other.
Zone 7: Another two waves.
1st Wave – One 190 Ace that traded shots to no effect.
2nd Wave – Three 190 (6 high, 12 high & low), with P-51’s chasing off two. The 12 level hit the right wing root but was in turn taken out by a Mustang as he came in for a second run. The crew of Trade School was observed bailing out, and after all chutes had opened, she exploded.
Zone 6: Two 109 with one chased off by a little friend. The other hit a flap then missed on a second run.
Zone 5: Three 109 with two chased off and the third failing to cause any damage.
Zone 4-2: Nothing to report
Zone 1: We fired off red and yellow flares to alert the ground and took our turn with the others who needed priority in landing.

The 78th was bloodied after this one. Everyone had a rough time of it and some didn’t make it back.
We had two wounded with Ferlito earning a trip home. Sue will need a couple of days to be flight worthy and we have a new gunner fresh from Stateside, Sgt Clay Shipman.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th B

[/div]

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle
Mission Date: 29 April 44
Mission Number: 068
Missions This Bomber: 8
Target: 2nd Lt Mike Morland

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	13	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Moreland	13	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Del Rossetti	24	9.5	0	KIA
Navigator 2nd Lt Gus Corby	24	3	0	RTD
Engineer T/Sgt Drew Dunson	24	13.5	1	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	3	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	1	0	0	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Mansfield	24	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Jerry Powers	1	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner T/Sgt Tony Mazzini	24	3.5	0	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Bomb Run: Off

On Target: 0%
B-17 Damage: 5 Hits
Nose x 2
-bombardier, SW/SW=KIA (10)
Starboard Wing x 1
-superficial x 1 (1)
Bomb Bay x 1
-doors, N/E (5)
Waist x 1
-superficial x 1 (1)
Peckham Points: 17
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	3	1	0	0	2
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	2	0	0	0	2
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	5	1	0	0	4

Confirmed Claims: 1
T/Sgt Drew Dunson 1 x Bf-109
Casualties: 1
1st Lt Del Rossetti KIA – Broken Femur, cracked pelvis, inflamed intestines
Award/ Promotions Requests:
PH Posthumously 1st Lt Del Rossetti

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: We lifted off in fine weather and without any issues or gremlins and formed up.

Zone 2-6: Nothing to report.
Zone 7: Two 109 tried to run at us before we made the harbour but our hungry Mustangs feasted on them.
The harbour flak opened up with one shell burst nearby that severely wounded Rossetti. Colby quickly jumped into his seat and as we sighted six freighters, a destroyer and a cruiser, but with his unfamiliarity as a bombardier and the flak thrown up by the cruiser, his best efforts were for naught.

INBOUND

As we passed the ships, the cruisers flak put a small hole the starboard wing. We cleared the harbor defensives and were set on twice by lone 190’s, who were both chased off by little friends.l).
Zone 6-3: Nothing to report.

Zone 2: Colby had done his best to make Rossetti comfortable and had given him morphine. But a 109 found us without any escorts around and put three into us – one putting poor Rossetti out of his pain.
As he came back for another run, Dunson scored a number of hits on his engine. The fighter went into a spin and caught fire, the pilot bailing out.
I hope he drowns!
Zone 1: We landed safely and made our way to our hardstand.

Our second mission in a row where we’ve lost a man. Losses are to be expected, but one mission from going home? At thirteen missions, I don’t think much of my chances for going home.

New bombardier: 2nd Lt Paul Lesniak

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE
Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: High / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 10
Mission Date: 7 May 44
Mission Number: 068
Mission Target: Reggio Emila, Italy - Railyard

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	10	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	10	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	10	1	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	10	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	10	4	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	10	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	10	4	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	3	0	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	10	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	1	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: On
On Target:
1 tanker – damaged (roll of 7)
1tanker – damaged by near hit, hull buckled (roll of 6)
B-24 Damage: 20 Hits
Bomb Bay x 1
-superficial (2)
Peckham Points: 2
Repair Time: Routine maintenance
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	0	0	0	0	0
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	0	0	0	0	0
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	0	0	0	0	0

Confirmed Claims: 0
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:
OLC to Air Medal-1st Lt Joe Waldron, 2nd Lt Dave Arnock, 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg, 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton, S/Sgt Roy Stelmach, T/Sgt Roger Druce, Sgt Bill Kadlec, S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski
Possible promotions- S/Sgt Roy Stelmach, T/Sgt Roger Druce, Sgt Bill Kadlec, S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We took off without any issues and formed up.
Zone 2: We saw some fighters but our formation fire changed their minds about pressing an attack.

Zone 3-6: Nothing to report.
Zone 7: We didn’t encounter any fighters (rolled a 66 and a random encounter) but with our little friends actively buzzing about scouring the skies looking for targets, I guess they all thought better of making an approach on us.

As we entered the harbour the flak started and some shrapnel hit the bomb bay area but the only damage was a hole.

We spotted two freighters at anchor, just begging to be hit. We lined them up and made our run. Without any flak to content with, Romsberg damaged the first one, and the second had a bomb explode so close to it that it must have suffered some unseen damage.

INBOUND

No flak hits or fighters on the way out.
Zone 6-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed without a hitch and made our way to interrogation, slapping ourselves on the back for a mission well done.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th B

[medic1]

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Low / Lead
Mission Date: 7 May 44
Mission Number: 069
Missions This Bomber: 9
Target: Reggio Emila, Italy - Railyard

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	14	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot Major James Tolliver	11	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	1	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Gus Corby	25	3	0	RTD
Engineer T/Sgt Drew Dunson	25	14.5	1	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	4	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	2	1	1	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Mansfield	25	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Jerry Powers	2	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner T/Sgt Tony Mazzini	25	3.5	0	KIA

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Bomb Run: On

On Target: 75%
B-17 Damage: 5 Hits
Superficial x 1 (1)
Bomb Bay x 1
-doors, N/E (5)
Waist x 2
-PWMG inoperable (10)
-RWG oxygen hit, N/E) (5)
Tail x 1
-gunner KIA (10)
Peckham Points: 31
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	2	1	1	0	0
Bf-110	3	0	0	0	1
Fw-190	4	1	1	0	2
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	9	2	2	0	3

Confirmed Claims: 1
T/Sgt Drew Dunson 1 x Fw-190
S/Sgt Ed Kostanaro 1 x Bf-109
Casualties: 1
T/Sgt Tony Mazzini KIA, bullet into brain
Award/ Promotions Requests:
PH Posthumously 1st Lt Del Rossetti

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: We lifted off in pretty poor weather and climbed, finally to break out of the clouds and into a beautiful sun filled sky.

Zone 2: Nothing to report.
Zone 3: We were engaged by two 109 from 12 H and 9 H. The 9 o’clock was an obviously green pilot who seemed to fly right into our new belly gunners fire, Kostanaro’s burst raked the wings and the 109 exploded. The other 109 retaliated by taking out Mazzini, who was on his last mission, and a hole in the bomb bay. A second attack ended in a draw without any damage to each other.
I ordered Mansfield to operate both waist MGs and had Powers remove Mazzini’s body and take over as tail gunner.
Zone 4: Nothing to report.
Zone 5: There were a lot of fighters buzzing around, and three waves of Goering’s Goons singled us out for special attention.
1st Wave – Two 190 at 12 & 6 H. The one on our 6 was chased off by a little friend while our new bombardier showed his stuff and bagged the other (denied at interrogation).
2nd Wave – Three 410 (12 & 1:30/Ace H, 9 lo), with a little help from our escorts who engaged the 1:30 and 9:00. The remaining Kraut was damaged by Lesniak’s twin chin MGs, but displayed some guts as he continued with his attack and destroyed the PW MG and hit the now unmanned SW oxygen controls. He returned for another try but was jumped on by a P-51.
3rd wave – Three 110 (12 & 1:30 H, VD) with the 1:30 engaged by a P-51. Morland, who was riding along as an observer this mission, manned the RRMG and spray fired. The Kraut apparently decided that since Moreland had no clue where his rounds were going, neither did he, and broke off without a shot fired in return. The last one just traded a few shots with us and left without much heart put into his attack.
When I turned control over to Lesniak for the bomb run, I didn’t think we had a chance to do any damage as the weather was really bad, but somehow the kid found a hole in the clouds and dropped for 75%!

INBOUND

The flak again was well off from us, but the fighters came in two waves.
1st Wave – Two 190 came in abreast from 12 H, but a Mustang tangled with one, leaving a green pilot to make the attack alone. Dunson's well aimed fire hit the spinner and prop of the fighter, fragments flew off and the fighter fell trailing clouds of smoke and exploded.
2nd Wave – Formation fire was able to keep this wave away.
Zone 4-2: Nothing to report.

Zone 1: We landed safely and made our way to our hardstand.

This was a bittersweet mission for the crew. Our two new men performed admirably as they accounted for one fighter, posted a probable while damaging another and managed a drop of 75% in extremely bad weather conditions.

On the flip side of the coin was four men on their final mission, one of whom didn’t make it back. They were all looking forward to travelling the States together on a bond drive. Now, Corby, Dunson and Mansfield plan to visit Manzini’s parents and personally deliver his personal effects.

New replacements:
navigator - 2nd Lt Larry Carboniero
engineer - Sgt Curt Mercado
PWG - Sgt Noreno Costa
tail Gunner - Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Middle / Lead
Missions This Bomber: 11
Mission Date: 7 May 44
Mission Number: 069
Mission Target: Reggio Emila, Italy – Railyard

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	11	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	11	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	11	1	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	11	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	11	4	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	11	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	11	4	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	4	0	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	11	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	2	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: Off
On Target: 0%
B-24 Damage: 0 Hits
Peckham Points: 0
Repair Time: Routine maintenance
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	0	0	0	0	0
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	2	0	0	0	2
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	2	0	0	0	2

Confirmed Claims: 0
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests: 0

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: The weather was pretty foul on take-off but we managed to get our bird into the air without any mishaps.
Zone 2-4: Nothing to report..

Zone 5:Once we had reached the IP, the fighters started to appear, but the only two 190 that took an interest in us, had some P-47s take an interest in them.

 

The flak was well off the mark, but the cloud cover was an obstacle that we couldn’t overcome. I briefly thought about taking the squadron around for another pass hoping the weather would give us a break, but dismissed the notion. I would have diverted to an alternate target but we hadn’t been given one at the briefing. Romsberg failed to find the target and we made our turn.

INBOUND

The flak gunners still couldn’t find our range and no fighters came after us.
Zone 4-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We left the sunny sky and dropped through the clouds to a miserable thoroughly soaked field. Despite the lousy conditions we made a fine perfect landing and taxied to our hardstand.

A thoroughly disappointing mission. The only highlight was it being a milk run and T/Sgt Ralston and his boys will have an early night of it, just having routine maintenance

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th B

[medic1]

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: High / Lead
Mission Date: 12 May 44
Mission Number: 070
Missions This Bomber: 10
Target: Ploesti Romani - Spreantza Oil Refinery

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	15	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Morland	15	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	2	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Larry Carbinarieo	1	0	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado	1	0	0	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	5	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	3	2	0	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Noreno Costa	1	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Jerry Powers	3	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit	1	0	0	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Bomb Run: On

On Target: 20%
B-17 Damage: 1 Hit
Superficial x 1 (1)
Peckham Points: 1
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	1	0	0	0	1
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	0	0	0	0	0
Ju-88	1	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	2	0	0	0	1

Confirmed Claims: 0
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:
OLC to AM (2nd awarded) 1st Lt Dan Shantz
OLC to AM (2nd awarded) 2nd Lt Mike Morland
AM (1st awarded) T/Sgt Bruce Woodside

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: We lifted off in pretty miserable weather and climbed, finally to break out of the clouds and into a beautiful sun filled sky.

Zone 2-7: Nothing to report.
Zone 8: At the IP we encountered slight opposition, two waves of a single fighter each. A Ju-88 put a minor hole in our side and a 109 was chased away by a little friend before the flak started up. It was pretty ineffectual light stuff.
The target was carpeted in cloud, but Lesniak found just enough of a break in it to place about 20% near the edge of the target.

INBOUND

The flak again was well off from us, and some would be attackers were warded off by formation fire.
Zone 7-2: Nothing to report.

Zone 1: The weather was still miserable, but we landed safely and made our way to our hardstand.

Except for an anxious moment with a Ju-88, this was a milk run. Mike myself are now “the old guys” of the crew since half of them are experiencing combat for the first time. I had to caution them that this mission was an exception, not the norm, and not to expect our next one to be so easy.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Low / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 12
Mission Date: 12 May 44
Mission Number: 070
Mission Target: Ploesti Romani - Spreantza Oil Refinery

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	12	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	12	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	12	1	1	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	12	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	12	4	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	12	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	12	4	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	5	0	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	12	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	3	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: Off
On Target: 5%
B-24 Damage: 0 Hits
Peckham Points: 0
Repair Time: Routine maintenance
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	3	1	0	0	0
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	0	0	0	0	0
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	3	1	0	0	0

Confirmed Claims: 1
2nd Lt Tony Romsberg
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests: 0

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: The weather was nasty on take-off but we managed to get our bird safely into the air. .
Zone 2-7: Nothing to report..

Zone 8: We encountered three 109 with no help from any little friends. Romsberg nailed one at 12 high, the pilot managing to bailout safely.

Another 12 high with a green pilot narrowly missed hitting us while the last at 1:30 missed by a generous margin. We were just as kind to them and they moved on to other targets.

The flak came up through the clouds, but it was light stuff and inaccurate. Unfortunately, the cloud cover also worked against us as it had the target blanketed. Romsberg did his best under the conditions, but he only managed about 5%.

INBOUND

The flak gunners still couldn’t find our range and no fighters came after us.
Zone 7-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We made a fine landing, about the only highlight of the mission besides downing a 109.

Two disappointing mission results in a row – and both being milk runs. Again, T/Sgt Ralston and his boys will have an early night of it, just having routine maintenance

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th B

[medic1]

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle
Mission Date: 16 May 44
Mission Number: 071
Missions This Bomber: 10
Target: Spezia, Italy - Railroad Marshaling Yard

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	16	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Morland	16	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	3	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Larry Carbinarieo	2	0	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado	2	0	0	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	6	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	4	2	0	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Noreno Costa	2	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Jerry Powers	4	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit	2	0	0	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Bomb Run: On

On Target: 40%
B-17 Damage: 0 Hits
Peckham Points: 0
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	7	0	1	0	4
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	0	0	0	0	0
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	7	0	1	0	4

Confirmed Claims: 0
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: The weather was cooperating and we had a clear day for a change. We lifted off and form up without any mishaps or complications.

Zone 2: Nothing to report.
Zone 3: We had a wave of fighters attempt to close in but our formation fire kept them away.
Zone 4-5a: Nothing to report.
Zone 5b: We were overlooked by fighters (random event: Tight Formation) and continued on to the flak field. It was well off of us and Lesniak was able to drop 40% onto the marshaling yards. We turned for home.

INBOUND

The flak again was well off from us, but after it had stopped, Goering’s Goons came in two waves.
The first, two 109 had their plans of conquest spoiled by Thunderbolt strikes, the P-47’s knocking down both of them. The second, another two 109, were all chased off by our escorts.
Zone 4: Three 109 zeroed in on us with one turning away to mix it up with a Thunderbolt. Of the other two, one missed us and rolled away while the other, an obviously green pilot was severely damaged by Lesniak. While we doubt if he made it back to any base, it’s a probable. The lack of skill of that pilot shows how desperate the Krauts are becoming as they send up poorly trained recruits just to fill out their dwindling numbers.

Zone 3-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed as safely as we had taken off.

The crew are calling Mike and myself “doomsayers” and “old worrywarts” as we have been telling them of the horrors that they can expect on missions as we try to get them ready to experience the worst of it.
Two milk runs in a row isn’t what I was expecting, but I’ll take them. But those kids are in for one hell of a shock when a tough one drops on us.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: High / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 13
Mission Date: 16 May 44
Mission Number: 071
Mission Target: Spezia, Italy - Railroad Marshaling Yard

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	13	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	13	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	13	2	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	13	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	13	4	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	13	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	13	4	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	6	0	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	13	2	0	LW
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	4	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: On
On Target: 30%
B-24 Damage: 7 Hits
Pilot’s Compartment x 1
-radio destroyed (10)
Port Wing x 2
-superficial (1)
-aileron inoperable (10)
Bomb Bay x 3
-superficial x 2 (2)
-doors, N/E (5)
Waist x 1
-gunner LW (2)
Peckham Points: 30
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	2	0	0	0	0
Bf-110	3	0	1	0	1
Fw-190	5	0	0	0	5
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	10	0	1	0	6

Confirmed Claims: 0
Casualties: 1
S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski LW-torn vastus muscle. RTD 23 June 44
Award/ Promotions Requests: 0
PH S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We had great weather for a change and had no issues on takeoff and form up.
Zone 2-5a: Nothing to report.

Zone 5b: Our easy ride was over as fighters appeared and the crew readied themselves to fight off two waves.

1st wave – Three 110 (VC-Green, 9 H-Green, 9 Lo) appeared with one at 9 Lo having the run put on him by a little friend. The climbing Kraut was a nervous rookie who barely came close enough to hope to hit us before he left the scene. His buddy, another rookie was made of stronger stuff. Cantrell knocked out an engine on him, and he still came in to blow off the port wing aileron and put a hole in the bay doors before limping off in great difficulty. We didn’t see him go down, but if he didn’t, he probably fell as easy prey to one of our escorts.
2nd wave – Three 190 who became tangled up by several Thunderbolt riders.
The flak didn’t find us, but Romsberg found the target for 30%.

INBOUND

The flak gunners still couldn’t find our range, but another two did find us.
1st wave - One 190 (6 Lev) and two 109 (VD & 12 Lev). The 190 fell to a P-47 and the 12:00 109 missed and moved on. The diving 109 came in on an angle that allowed him to attack without us being able to throw up any defensive fire. He put a harmless round into our empty Bombay and came back at 12 level to destroy our radio. He returned once more to put another into the bomb bay and also wounded Malinowski.
Zone 4-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We made a textbook landing and taxied to our hardstand.

We had a good bombing result, but Malinowski will be lost to us until late June.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted
B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727
Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Low / Middle
Mission Date: 19 May 44
Mission Number: 072
Missions This Bomber: 11
Target: Wiener Neustadt, Austria - Airfield

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	17	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Morland	17	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	4	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Larry Carbinarieo	3	0	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado	3	0	0	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	7	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	5	2	0	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Noreno Costa	3	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Jerry Powers	5	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit	3	0	1	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Bomb Run: Off

On Target: 0%
B-17 Damage: 2 Hits
Superficial x 1 (1)
Nose x 1
-autopilot inoperable (10)
Peckham Points: 11
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	3	1	0	0	2
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	5	0	0	1	4
Ju-88	1	0	0	0	1
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	9	1	0	1	7

Confirmed Claims: 1
Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit 1 x Bf-109
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:
AM (1st Awards) S/Sgt Ed Kostanaro, Sgt Jerry Powers

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: We lifted off in fine weather and formed up without any mishaps or complications.

Zone 2: Nothing to report.
Zone 3: We encountered two fighters that made separate attacks, but both were chased off by P-38’s.
Zone 4: Another fighter wave tried to approach for an attack, but the formation threw up a curtain of fire that changed their minds and they went looking for other opportunities in the higher squadrons.
Zone 5: We observed a 190 working over the Bellefontaine, scoring heavily. Rounds must have hit their payload as she suddenly exploded with none of her crew able to bail out.
Zone 6: Things heated up at the target zone, one wave of two 109 singling us out for attention. One ran into a P-38 with the other coming in from 6 H. Talking Spirit's long burst hit the engine and cockpit of the 109, the pilot apparently hit as his plane appeared to fall flat towards the ground, tail down.
The flak was a bit more intense than some of the crew were used to, and several planes took hits. We were rocked by some of it and our autopilot rendered useless as Lesniak was trying to pinpoint the target through the smoke the Krauts had laid out to cover it. He claims that he just missed hitting the airfield, but a miss is a miss is a miss.

INBOUND

The flak was lighter and inaccurate after we had turned for the rally point. After it had let up we had one of Goering’s Goons in a 190 try to strafe us but instead was knocked down by a little friend.
Zone 5: Nothing to report.
Zone 4: Four 190 had intentions to rough us up, but our P-38’s had something to say about that as they persuaded three of them to break off. The remaining fighter put a minor hole in the airframe and decided to come around for another try, but Kostanaro picked him up at 6 low and damaged him enough to throw off his aim. He missed and decided to not press his luck further.

Zone 3-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed as safely as we had taken off.

Although this was close to being a milk run, our third in a row, the crew witnessed some of the horrors that they can expect on future missions as they saw the sudden destruction of Bellefontaine and crew. They aren’t such a rambunctious bunch right now.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 14
Mission Date: 19 May 44
Mission Number: 072
Mission Target: Wiener Neustadt, Austria - Airfield

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	14	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	14	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	14	2	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	14	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	14	4	1	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	14	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	14	4	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	7	0	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Marcus Malinowski	14	2	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	5	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: On
On Target: 75%
B-24 Damage: 0 Hits
Peckham Points: 0
Repair Time: Routine maintenance
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	7	1	1	1	4
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	0	0	0	0	0
Ju-88	1	0	0	0	1
Me-210	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	8	1	1	1	5

Confirmed Claims: 1
S/Sgt Roy Stelmach 1 x Bf-109
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:
AM (1st Award) Sgt Clay Shipman
Ace status S/Sgt Roy Stelmach

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We had great weather for a change and had no issues or Gremlins on takeoff and formed up.
Zone 2-3: Nothing to report.

Zone 4: Had a slight encounter with a would-be attacker in a Ju-88, but he fell in flames to a little friend. Yo-Yo, a spare bomber with a crew from the pool wasn’t so lucky as they were roughed up by a 109 and had to abort.

Zone 5: Nothing to report.

Zone 6: At the IP we were met by two 109, but both had to turn away to meet the threat from two of our P-38s.

Just after that, Shipman called out that a Jerry had just sliced through Roll n Tuck II, who was flying in the Purple Heart Corner slot. We only counted five chutes.
The flak was all around, but failed to find us, unlike Romsberg who was able to make out the airfield through the smoke that the Jerries had put out to try and conceal it. He plopped 75% into their laps.
INBOUND

The flak gunners still couldn’t find our range, and once we had cleared it became engaged by two 109. One of our escorts came along to tangle with one of them, and Stelmach became an Ace as his twin fifties shredded the wing of the other, it corkscrewing widely on fire to fall several thousand feet before exploding.
Zone 5: Three 109 who lost one to a Lightning strike before engaging us. Stelmach thought that he had his second of the mission against a diving Jerry, but it was denied at interrogation. The remaining head on fighter was damaged by Romsberg and fired wide of us before deciding that he had enough and left.

Zone 4-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed as we had lifted off, without any complications and taxied to our hardstand.

We all were thumping Romsberg on the back and ribbing him on how he was going to be broke tonight buying us drinks since the Old Man would be buying his tonight. We let Stelmach know that the great Ace was also buying.
“And we’ll drink to the crew of Roll n Tuck.” Druce added somberly.
We walked to debriefing in silence, each man alone in his thoughts.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Low / Tail
Missions This Bomber: 15
Mission Date: 22 May 44
Mission Number: 073
Mission Target: Porto Marghera Italy - Oil Storage Dump

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	14	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	15	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	15	2	0	LW
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	15	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	15	5	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	15	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	15	4	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	8	0	1	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Frank Morahan	2	0	0	SW/IH
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	6	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: On
On Target: 20%
B-24 Damage: 13 Hits
Superficial x 3 (6)
Nose x 2
-nose MG inop (10)
-bombardier LW (2)
Port Wing x 1
-#1 engine out and feathered (35)
Starboard Wing x 2
-superficial (2)
-aileron inop (10)
Bomb Bay x 2
-superficial (2)
-rafts destroyed (10)
Waist x 1
-SWG SW (5)
Tail x 2
-superficial (2)
-control cables, no effect (5)
Peckham Points: 89
Repair Time: Overnight maintenance
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	6	1	0	0	4
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	3	0	0	0	2
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	1	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	10	1	0	0	6

Confirmed Claims: 1
Sgt Thomas Cantrell 1 x Bf-109

Casualties: 2

2nd Lt Tony Romsberg LW, neck grazed. Treated & RTD
S/Sgt Frank Morahan SW, abdomen-inflamed stomach & spleen.to be IH

Award/ Promotions Requests:

PH 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg, S/Sgt Frank Morahan
OLC to AM (2nd award) 1st Lt Joe Waldron, 2nd Lt Dave Arnock, 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg, 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton, S/Sgt Roy Stelmach, Sgt Bill Kadlec

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: Some of the crew were on edge as we were assigned the Purple Heart Corner this mission, and the loss of Roll n Tuck II flying tail mere days before was still fresh in their minds. We had no issues on takeoff and formed up without any complications.
Zone 2: Nothing to report.

Zone 3: A flight of Jerries had thoughts about taking us on, but the formation fire was a bit more than they wanted to face and moved on.

Zone 4: The squadron seemed to tighten up our box formation as we closed onto the IP. A wave of three 109 still came in with two getting tangled up in dogfights with our escorting P-47s. The remaining 109 snapped off a wide burst, avoided our fire and dove away.
The fighters broke off as the flak started up, and Incendiary Sue was rocked by two close ones that wounded Morahan in the waist and bent the barrel of our nose MG rendering it useless. Somehow, Romsberg managed to keep it together enough through it all to drop 20% of our payload onto the oil dump.
INBOUND

The flak gunners were less accurate after our turn, but the fighters made up for them as three 190 and a 410 swarmed in. Two of the 190 were themselves targeted by our Thunderbolts leaving a 190 at 12 H and the 410 (Ace) at 6 H. Both fighters struck for three hits each with the worst of it rendering the right aileron useless.
They both returned for another go, but the 190 fell to Cantrell who jumped to the right waist MG to meet the threat. The 410 was cagey enough to come in unopposed at 12 low thanks to our lack of a nose gun and pumped three more hits into us, lightly wounding Romsberg.
The 410 wasn’t content with that and returned once again at 9 level to destroy our life rafts and knock out the #1 engine, which we successfully feathered. Apparently, the Kraut was pleased with this result and headed for home.
Zone 3: The Luftwaffe was still out for blood and three 109 came in at 3, 6 and 12 high with the 3 and 6 getting chased off by little friends. The remaining fighter swapped fire with nothing being decided.

Zone 2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We fired off red flares and landed safely, the ambulances waiting for us at our hardstand.

Romsberg was treated and released, but Morahan’s wounds are more severe. He was operated on and they’ll keep and eye on him for a bit, but his war is over and he’ll be shipped home soon.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: High / Middle, Tail from zone 3 outbound
Mission Date: 22 May 44
Mission Number: 073
Missions This Bomber: 12
Target: Porto Marghera Italy - Oil Storage Dump

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	18	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Morland	18	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	5	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Larry Carbinarieo	4	0	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado	4	0	1	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	8	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	6	2	0	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Noreno Costa	4	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Jerry Powers	6	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit	4	1	1	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Bomb Run: On

On Target: 30%
B-17 Damage: 2 Hits
Nose x 1
-port cheek MG inoperable (10)
Port Wing x 1
-superficial (1)
Peckham Points: 11
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	0	0	0	0	0
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	17	2	0	0	14
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	17	2	0	0	14

Confirmed Claims: 1
S/Sgt Curt Mercado 1 x Bf-109
Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit 1 x Fw-190
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:
AM (1st Award) 2nd Lt Paul Lesniak

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: Another beautiful day about to be ruined by the ugliness of war. We took off and formed form without any problems.

Zone 2: Goering’s Goons were out early as we saw Commodore Perry take some hits. She reported that she had to abort after it was over, jettisoned her payload and turned away.

Zone 3: More resistance from the Luftwaffe. Although we were left alone, Hi-Lo was worked over by the flying goon squad and she went down with a wing on fire. Ten chutes were counted.

“There goes Hi-Lo.” Talking Spirit reported.
“Watch for chutes.” Shantz replied, then said a silent prayer for Hi-Lo’s crew, wishing them luck. Everyone was aware of the odds of bailing out over the sea.
He activated his throat mic. “Woodside, inform Flying Scotsman that we’re dropping back and taking over as Tail End Charlie.”
“You bucking for us to buy the farm skipper?” Powers asked.
“There you go again, Powers,” Kostanaro chirped. “Expecting to live forever.”
“Cut the chatter and leave the comm open to call out incoming. The squadrons rear is exposed and we’re covering it - and ours. Start rubbernecking.”
He glanced over at Morland who was looking at him.
“You got something to say, Mike?”
“Nope,” he replied shaking his head with a wry smile. “I’m surprised that I’ve made it this far.”
Zone 4: We encountered two waves totalling five fighters, but both were chased off by P-47’s.

The flak missed us and Lesniak dropped for 30%.

INBOUND

The flak was a bit lighter but a chunk found our port wing although it wasn’t any cause for concern.
Another two waves of goons waited beyond, but as each came in, our little friends were Johnny on the spot and chased them all off, six in total.
Zone 3: It seemed as if the Krauts had it in for us as we saw another two waves of them. Four 190 came in the first one with our P-47’s once again providing sterling support, driving off three. Mercado hit the remaining fighter head on in the engine and wing. It wobbled and shuttered and then rolled over and fell into a steep dive, catching fire along its way down. The pilot didn’t make it out.
The second wave had another three 190 with a P-47 knocking one of them, an Ace, down. Talking Spirit hammered away at another at 6 H, scoring hits on hit the engine and cockpit, causing the pilot to jettison his canopy and bail out.
The other 190 hit us from 12 H and rendered the port cheek MG useless. He returned for another go but nothing resulted from it.
Zone 2: Nothing to report.

Zone 1: We landed as safely as we had taken off.

We had encountered a fair number of fighters on this jaunt, but the boys from the 325th fighter group really gave us outstanding fighter protection. To quote our ex-CO, Major Tolliver, outstanding!

I told the crew that if they run into any of the 325th boys, they’re drinking on us. As for me, I'll be heading for our new base theatre and catching that Betty Grable flick. That woman has one series set of gams on her!

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B-17F-90BO 42-30157 SWAMP ANGEL

Pilot: 1st Lt Nate Morrell
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: High / Middle
Mission Date: 22 May 44
Mission Number: 073
Missions This Bomber: 4
Target: Porto Marghera Italy - Oil Storage Dump

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Nate Morrell	1	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Simon Highmore	1	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Dino Vendeni	1	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Emile Noble	1	0	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Walt Strothers	1	0	0	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Chuck Nallon	1	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ken Massaro	1	0	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Harvey Mariner	3	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Cruz Ragone	1	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Conner Kellici	1	0	1	RTD

Bomb Run: On

On Target: 60%
B-17 Damage: 2 Hits
Port Wing x 1
-superficial (1)
Bomb Bay x 1
-doors, superficial (1)
Peckham Points: 11
Repair Time: OvernightLanding: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	3	1	0	0	2
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	7	0	0	0	7
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	10	1	0	0	9

Confirmed Claims: 1
Sgt Conner Kellici 1 x Bf-109
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: With the rumour mill in high gear, the word is that a lot of us in the spare pool won’t make the jump with the rest of the group. Some of us got together and received permission to take a spare kite and get a chance to do some damage to the Nazi war machine.

Zone 2: One of our number had to abort due to a Kraut fighter.

Zone 3: A single 190 attempted to try and put an end to our journey, but a P-47 tore into him and feasted. Another crew wasn’t so lucky. The poor bastards had to bail out over the Adriatic.

Zone 4: We had another fighter try and strafe us, but he was chased off by our little friends. When the flak started popping off, it was a new and terrifying experience for many of the lads. We were rocked a bit as we took a minor hit to the port wing.

I turned control over to Lt Vendeni who somehow through it all managed to concentrate on the target and dropped for 60%.

INBOUND

The flak didn’t find us after we had turned away, but two waves of Krauts did. In the first, two 109 moved in with one falling along the way to a P-47. The remaining 109 was clipped by Lt Vendeni as it made a frontal attack, but as he passed by the tail gunner, Sgt Kellici lit him up like a roman candle and it exploded.
The second wave were all chased off by several Thunderbolts.
Zone 3: More Krauts swarmed towards us in another two waves. Again, P-47’s chased off the first wave.
The second wave was repulsed by formation fire, but some careless SOB in one of our planes hit us in the bay doors with some not so friendly fire. Idiot.
Zone 2: Nothing to report.

Zone 1: We touched down in a near perfect landing (I rolled an 11) and made our way to our assigned hardstand.

We disembarked a pretty happy bunch. We all acquitted ourselves well and showed what a mostly green bunch from the spare pool can do! And credit where credit is due, thanks to the fine job by the boys of the 325th FG.

1st Lt, Nate Morrell, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle,
Mission Date: 24 May 44
Mission Number: 074
Missions This Bomber: 13
Target: Munich, Germany - Bayerische Allach Motornworks (BMW)

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	19	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Morland	19	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	6	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Larry Carbinarieo	5	0	0	KIA
Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado	5	1	3	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	9	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	7	2	1	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Noreno Costa	5	0	0	SW/IH
SWG Sgt Jerry Powers	7	0	0	LW
Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit	5	2	0	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Bomb Run: Off

On Target: 0%
B-17 Damage: 8 Hits
Nose x 2
- navigator LW + KIA (12)
Port Wing x 2
-superficial (1)
-flap, N/E (5)
Starboard Wing x 1
-superfivial (1)
Bomb Bay x 1
- superficial (1)
Waist x 1
-PWG SW/IH (5)
-RWG LW (2)
Tail x 1
- superficial (1)
Peckham Points: 27
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Yates, average, modifier +2.

Landing: Safe at Giulia

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	12	2	0	0	6
Bf-110	3	2	0	0	1
Fw-190	5	0	0	0	4
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	17	4	0	0	11

Confirmed Claims: 4
S/Sgt Curt Mercado 2 x Bf-110, 1 x Bf-109
Sgt S/Sgt Ed Kostanaro 1 x Bf-109
Casualties: 3
2nd Lt Larry Carboniero, KIA. Grazed chest, shattered pelvis and ruptured intestines
S/Sgt Noreno Costa, SW/IH. Broken femur
Sgt Jerry Powers LW. Torn gluteus muscle. RTD 5 July 44
Award/ Promotions Requests:
PH Posthumous 2nd Lt Larry Carboniero
PH S/Sgt Noreno Costa
PH Sgt Jerry Powers
AM (1st award)- 2nd Lt Larry Carboniero (posthumous), S/Sgt Curt Mercado, S/Sgt Noreno Costa, Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit

After Action report(using QOTS):

Zone 1: The crew was excited and nervous as we took off. We were making a statement by taking the fight into Germany, but knowing that we were taking them on in their own backyard we knew that they’d be fighting harder. We formed up without any problems and headed out.

Zone 2-4: Nothing to report.

Zone 5: A 190 tried to make trouble for us but was shooed away by one of our escorts.
Zone 6: Nothing to report.
Zone 7:Five of Goering’s Goons came for us at the IP with two falling to some P-51’s. Mercado nailed one at 12 H as his buddy, also at 12 H wounded navigator Carboniero and both waist gunners. This 109 returned at 9 low and Kostanaro fired several bursts and it began to burn, going into a steep dive in flames.

The Krauts threw up some real heavy flak which resulted in a hole in the right wing. This resulted in throwing off Lesniak’s aim and we laid an egg.

INBOUND

The flak missed us and we emerged from it to a two-wave greeting committee.
1st wave – five 109 with three tangling with Mustangs. A diving fighter put two into the port wing and was swinging around for another go when he also was taken one by another of our little friends.
2nd wave – two 109 and a 110. A 109 fell to an escort and the other missed and left. The 110 hit us three times, striking Carboniero for a second time and finishing him off. The Jerry returned at 3 level but Mercado extracted a measure of revenge when his fire snapped off a wing and sending the fighter down in a spiral that the crew couldn’t escape from.
Zone 6: Two 110 found us over the Alps. A mustang took care of one and Mercado took care of the other..
Zone 5: A 109 appeared but was chased off by escorts.
Zone 4: Nothing to report.
Zone 3: Three 190 were lining us up but two were swatted down by P-51’s and the remaining Kraut fired wide and bugged out.
Zone 2: Nothing to report.

Zone 1: We fired off red flares landed to the waiting ambulances.

A rough one for us. We missed the target, lost Carboniero and Costa, Powers lost until early July. I wonder if he’ll be able to catch up to us after the Group moves?

Our new replacements will be:
Spare Pool Replacement: Sgt Duncan Markland
New Nav: 2nd Lt Tom Kassel
New PWG: Sgt Curtis Horsburgh

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Middle / Tail
Missions This Bomber: 16
Mission Date: 24 May 44
Mission Number: 074
Mission Target: Munich, Germany - Bayerische Allach Motornworks (BMW)

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	16	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	16	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	16	2	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	16	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	16	5	0	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	16	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	16	4	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	7	1	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Jim Muzzarelli	1	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	7	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: On
On Target: 20%
B-24 Damage: 1 Hits
Tail x 1
-rudder, no effect (5)
Peckham Points: 5
Repair Time: Overnight maintenance
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	7	1	1	0	4
Bf-110	1	0	0	0	1
Fw-190	4	0	0	0	2
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	12	1	1	0	7

Confirmed Claims: 1
S/Sgt Roy Stelmach 1 x Bf-109
Casualties: 0

Award/ Promotions Requests:

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We took off and formed up without any problems. We expect this to be a bit of a rough one as it takes us into Germany.
Zone 2: Nothing to report other than Dragon Lady aborting. Big Bad Wolfe assumed the tail and I had to slap myself as I thought that it was better them than us.

Zone 3-5: Nothing to report.

Zone 6: A 109 appeared as we crossed the Alp’s, but he didn’t last long as a P-51 jumped all over him.
Zone 7: Two waves greeted us as we grew closer to our target. The first one was a diving 110 that ran afoul of our little friends.
The second wave saw four 190 with two turned away by little friends. Stelmach scorched another at 12 H and the last failed to hit us and left in a hurry.
The flak was intense and we haven’t encountered stuff this heavy in some time. We took a hit to a rudder that didn’t amount to anything to worry about, and Romsberg was able to drop for 20% through it all.
INBOUND

Two 109 had designs on us as we came out of the flak, but our escorts were up to the challenge and neither made it close enough to bother us.
Zone 6: 6: The Luftwaffe was pretty active in defence of the Fatherland. Three 109 came in at 6 high, 12 high and another at 12 level. The 6:00 was chased off by little friends. Stelmach hammered a green pilot at 12 high, but this would be denied at interrogation.

Zone 5: Big Bag Wolfe reported that she was falling out of formation. “Better him than me” turned into me as we were the next bomber in line and took over as TEC
Zone 4-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed safely and taxied to our hardstand.

Lots of flak and fighters , but we came through it okay.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle,
Mission Date: 27 May 44
Mission Number: 075
Missions This Bomber: 15
Target: Marseille, France - St. Charles Marshaling Yard

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	20	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Morland	20	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	7	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Tom Kassel	1	0	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado	5	1	3	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	9	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	7	3	1	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Horsburgh	1	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Duncan Markland	1	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit	6	2	0	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Observer/MG in Radio Room mission 075: Capt. Greg Sanders, 509 Group Personnel Officer
Bomb Run: On

On Target: 60%
B-17 Damage: 1 Hit
Starboard Wing x 1
-flap, inoperable (10)
Peckham Points: 10
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Manny Manzano, average, modifier +0.

Landing: Safe at Sudburry, England

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	4	0	0	0	3
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	1	0	0	0	1
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	3	0	1	0	2
Me-163	0	0	0	0	0
Me-262	0	0	0	0	0
Ta-152	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	8	0	1	0	6

Confirmed Claims: 4
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:
Promotion - 1st Lt Dan Shantz to Captain
Promotion – 2nd Lt Mike Morland to 1st Lt
Promotion Review - T/Sgt Bruce Woodside
OLC to AM (1st award)- T/Sgt Bruce Woodside

After Action report(using QOTS):
After everyone had jumped out of the jeep that had brought them to their bomber, several of the men stood taking a long last look at what had been their “home:” ever since they had shipped over from the States.
“I’m going to miss this place.” Kostanaro said with a hint of sadness. “I’ve really enjoyed seeing a lot of the local historical sights that I’ve only ever seen in books. And the people were pretty friendly. Great places to go whenever we got leave.”
“I’m going to miss it as well, but for different reasons.” Woodside grunted. “I’ve read about where we’re going. England can be cold and rains a lot. I’m from Las Vegas. I don’t think that I’m going to enjoy England.”
“You’ll hate being over Germany even more.” Mercado chimed in. “At least all the women can speak English were we’re going.”
The men started to climb into Vicious Vixen as another jeep pulled up with the officers of the crew, plus one.
“Woodside.” Shantz called the RO back. “This is Capt. Sanders, group personnel. He’s coming along with us and will act as the gunner in the radio room. Get him squared away.
You’ll be alright, Sir.” Shantz said addressing Sanders. “For the most part our missions tend to be long periods of boredom injected by moments of sheer terror. You’ll get through it.”
“The flak will make a religious man out of you, though. You might want a change of underwear.” Woodside deadpanned.
“You aren’t helping.” Sanders said as he followed him into the bomber.

Zone 1: We lifted off from Giulia for the last time and formed up without any complications.

Zone 2: It seemed as if the Luftwaffe based in Italy wanted a last crack at us as we ran into them early. Two 110 came at us with a P-51 taking care of one diving on us. We traded shots with the remaining 110, but nothing came of it.
Zone 3-5: Nothing to report.

Zone 6: We had some more fighters approach, but they were all warded off by formation fire.
Zone 7: Nothing to report.

Zone 8: Goering’s Goon’s were out in droves and we were singled out by two waves.
1st wave – Two 109 that were intercepted by the Red Tails.
2nd Wave – One 190, also chased off.
The flak was as heavy as we’ve rarely seen it. We saw Gollum get bracketed by it, then explode. Only one chute was spotted. At least they went quick. Then we were thumped by a hit that blew off the right flap.
Somehow, Lesniak was able to compensate for the buffeting we took and dropped for 60%! Hello and goodbye France. A final present from the boys of Vicious Vixen! I don't think that we'll be back anytime soon.

INBOUND

The flak was lighter and missed us as we continued on instead of turning for a rally point to return to Giulia.
Two 190 moved in intending to feast on us, but instead were feasted on by the 332nd. Sadly, this would be the last time we’ll be saved by the Red Tails. I hope to met these guys after the war and by them a few.
Zone 9: More fighters, but all fought off by defensive fire.
Zone 8: Nothing to report.
Zone 7: Deeper into France, and two waves of fighters welcomed us.
1st wave – A 190 at 1 high, but nothing came of it.
2nd wave – Two 110 (VC, 3 level) Kostanaro drew a bead on the 3:00 and peppered it with two bursts. It shuttered, tried to climb and then just fell out of control like a falling leaf, the pilot unable to bail out. Mercado damaged the other 110 which missed us and dove away.
Zone 6: Three 190 (9 & 6 level, 12 high). The only thing to come out of this scrap was that Mercado winged the Kraut at 12 H.
Zone 5-4: Nothing to report.
Zone 3: Some ineffective flak popped off at us as we reached the coast. Over the English Channel a single Ju-88 tried to move on us, but our new escorts from the 55th FG made short work of him.
Zone 2: Nothing to report.

Zone 1: We crossed over the fabled White Cliffs a little off our starboard and made for Sudburry. Over our new base we took our turn in line and landed safely without any issues.

After we finished with interrogation, the crew started to explore our new surroundings and see the lay of the land. I went to meet our new crew chief, S/Sgt Manny Manzano, who was pleased that we didn’t have a huge amount of damage after such a long mission.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 17
Mission Date: 27 May 44
Mission Number: 075
Mission Target: Marseille, France - St. Charles Marshaling Yard

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	17	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	17	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	17	2	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	17	1	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	17	5	2	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	17	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	17	4	0	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	8	1	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Jim Muzzarelli	2	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	8	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: Off
On Target: 10%
B-24 Damage: 4 Hits
Superficial x 1 (2)
Pilot’s Compartment x 1
-window, N/E (5)
Port Wing x 1
-#4 engine, superficial (35)
Tail x 1
-superficial (2)
Peckham Points: 5
Repair Time: Overnight maintenance
Crew Chief: T/Sgt Greg Ralston (good, mod base =1+1/2)
Landing: Safe at Giulia
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	8	1	0	0	4
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	6	1	0	0	5
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	14	2	0	0	9

Confirmed Claims: 2
S/Sgt Roy Stelmach 1 x Bf-109, 1 x Fw-190
Casualties: 0

Award/ Promotions Requests:

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: We took off, leaving Foggia for the last time and formed up without any problems.
Zone 2: Three 109 appeared, but before they could start anything our escorts jumped all over them. We’re going to miss those boys of the 332nd!

Zone 3-7: Nothing to report.

Zone 8: Five 109 came in at us with two turning away to deal with our P-51’s. We took a hit to the windshield from one at 1:30 H. It cracked but thankfully held up. That fighter turned back for another go at us but fell to one of our escorts.

Another 109 at 9 H hit us in the tail area and returned to hit again, but overall, he didn’t cause much in the way of damage.

A second wave of three 190 were lining us but were chased off by several mustangs.

The flak was intense stuff. We took a hit to the #4 engine that jostled us just a hair before Romsberg called “Bombs away”. The result was maybe 10% onto the target.

INBOUND

Continuing on instead of swinging back the way we had come must have confused the flak gunners. The light stuff they threw up didn’t find us.
Zone 9-6: Nothing to report.

Zone 5: The Luftwaffe wasn’t ready to call it a day and a 190 thought he’d try to ruin our day. Instead, his was ruined by a P-51.
Zone 4: Nothing to report.
Zone 3: Two 190 came across us and gambled that they could take us out. One lost his gamble to an escort and the other to Stelmach’s twin fifties.
Zone 2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We passed over those white cliffs we’ve heard so much about. I had brought my camera along and snapped off a few pics to sent to the folks back home.

We landed at what is now our new base of operations – in other words – home. At our hardstand, we met our new ground crew led by S/Sgt Jay Decker, who says that he can have Sue ready to go by tomorrow.

We’re all headed out tonight to see if we like warm beer.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle,
Mission Date: 6 June 44
Mission Number: 076
Missions This Bomber: 16
Target: Marseille, France - St. Charles Marshaling Yard

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	21	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Morland	21	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	8	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Tom Kassel	2	0	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado	6	4	0	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	10	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	8	4	0	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Horsburgh	2	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Duncan Markland	2	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit	7	2	0	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Observer/MG in Radio Room mission 075: Capt. Greg Sanders, 509 Group Personnel Officer
Bomb Run: On

On Target: 30%
B-17 Damage: 0 Hit
Peckham Points: 0
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Manny Manzano, average, modifier +0.

Landing: Safe at Sudburry, England

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	3	0	0	0	3
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	5	0	1	0	2
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	1
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	8	0	1	0	5

Confirmed Claims: 0
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:

After Action report(using QOTS):
Shantz huddled under the wing with his crew.
“You all know that I’m not prone to making rah-rah speeches before a mission, but this one is different. You all heard Major Frazer. This is D-Day. The worlds been waiting for this one. We’re the squadron lead and we need to hit that bridge! If we don’t, it’s going to be rough on a lot of Joe’s hitting the beaches and hanging on to them. If our troops fail and get pushed back into the sea, then the war will drag on for years after. We have a chance to shorten it. Let’s make that happen. Mount up.”

Zone 1: The weather was definitely different than Italy. It has a certain gloomy chill to it, but didn’t cause us any problems on takeoff and we formed up without any complications.

Zone 2-6a: Nothing to report except that we caught a small glimpse of the Allied armada heading across the channel. Still, the little that we could make out off in the distance was impressive in its scope.
Zone 6b: Our first contact with the Krauts was a nonevent as a P-47 was all over a lone 109 that never came close enough to fire on us.

A second wave of four 190 turned out to be more determined, and only one was taken out by an escort. The other three (1:30 & 3 level, 12 high) fanned out and came in with guns blazing. Mercado hammered the 12 high who fell away down into the clouds (denied at interrogation) while the other two goons swapped ammo with us to no effect.

The flak popped off but didn’t come near us. Lesniak was able to make out the bridge through gaps in the cloud cover and hit for an estimated 30% and we turned for home.
INBOUND
The flak was lighter and missed us as we headed for the rally point. Once past the flak, a single 190 attempted to move on us but suffered from a strike by a Thunderbolt. The Kraut was able to bail out.
Zone 6a: Two more of Goering’s Goons in 190’s came at us, but the boys of the 367th FG took exception to that. We continued on our way unmolested.
Zone 5-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed without any hiccups and made our way to our hardstand. The ground crew were ecstatic that we returned unscathed, giving them an easy workload.

We did our part. Now we wait for word on how our guys on the ground did and wait for our next mission to take back Europe, end this lousy war and hopefully return home.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

Attachment Deleted

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron

Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group [/font]
Formation/Position: Low / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 18
Mission Date: 6 June 44
Mission Number: 076
Mission Target: Caen France - Bridge - In support of the D-Day Invasion

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	18	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	18	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	18	2	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	18	1	1	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	18	5	2	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	18	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	18	4	1	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	9	1	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Jim Muzzarelli	3	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	9	0	0	RTD

Bomb Run: Off
On Target: 0%
B-24 Damage: 1 Hits
Tail x 1
-superficial (2)
Peckham Points: 2
Repair Time: Overnight maintenance
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Jay Decker (mod base =0)
Landing: Safe at Sudburry, England
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROB/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	11	2	0	0	6
Bf-110	2	0	0	0	2
Fw-190	7	0	0	0	7
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	1	0	0	0	1
TOTALS	21	2	0	0	16

Confirmed Claims: 2
2nd Lt Ken Hamilton 1 x Bf-109
Sgt Bill Kadlec 1 x Bf-109
Casualties: 0

Award/ Promotions Requests:

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: It was dark and drizzling when we took off, but all formed up without any problems. .
Zone 2-4: Nothing to report.

Zone 5: A 109 with a 110 tagging along started to make a beeline for us, but the 109 was engaged by one of our P-47’s. Nothing came of the 110, good or bad.
Zone 6a: A 190 and 110 were both chased off by our little friends before they could open up on us.

Zone 6b: Two waves of Krauts tried to single us out, but the first wave was taken on by P-47’s while two in the second wave made it through to us. Hamilton tore a wing off of a 109 at 1:30 while the second fighter did a ‘shoot and scoot’ and made a clean getaway.

The weather was dismal and it was hard to see the bridge from angels 16. To add to our difficulty, flak hit our tail just before Romsberg drop our bombs, and we missed (and my talent for rolling a 1 on bomb drops continues!).

INBOUND

Past the flak, two more waves of fighters, but our escorts took care of them both.
Zone 6a: Another two waves. The first had three 190, but they were all chased off. In the second, five 109 roared in with three getting past our fighter screen. Kadlec became an Ace when his long burst blew the prop off one at 6:00, the fighter dropping and the pilot bailing out. The other two traded fire with us, but we parted ways without causing any damage to one another.

Zone 5-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: We landed without any issues.

Another goose egg on our bomb run. Fighters, flak, fighters, the weather. It doesn’t matter. A miss is a miss is a miss.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th BS

[medic1]

B-17G VICIOUS VIXEN 5-BO-44-22727

Pilot: 1st Lt Dan Shantz
Squadron: 79th Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group, 8th Air Force
Formation/Position: Middle / Middle,
Mission Date: 10 June 44
Mission Number: 077
Missions This Bomber: 16
Target: Nantes/Bougeumaie, France - Airdrome

NAME/POSITION	MISSION#	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Dan Shantz	22	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Mike Morland	22	.5*	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Paul Resniak	9	0	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Tom Kassel	3	0	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Curt Mercado	4	4	0	RTD
Radio Operator T/Sgt Bruce Woodside	11	0	0	RTD
Ball Gunner S/Sgt Ed Kostnaro	9	4	0	RTD
PWG S/Sgt Curtis Horsburgh	3	0	0	RTD
SWG Sgt Duncan Markland	3	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Charlie Talking Spirit	8	2	0	RTD

Observer/ RR MG: *2nd Lt Mike Morland ½ credit RR MG mission 067
Bomb Run: On

On Target: 20%
B-17 Damage: 4 Hit
Port Wing x 1
-wing root (25)
Starboard Wing x 2
-superficial (1)
-inboard fuel tank, self sealed (5)
Bomb Bay x 1
-superficial (1)
Peckham Points: 32
Repair Time: Overnight
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Manny Manzano, average, modifier +0.

Landing: Safe at Sudburry, England

E/A Encountered: 0

A/C TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	4	0	0	0	3
Bf-110	0	0	0	0	0
Fw-190	1	0	0	0	1
Ju-88	0	0	0	0	0
Me-410	3	0	1	0	2
Me-163	0	0	0	0	0
Me-262	0	0	0	0	0
Ta-152	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	8	0	1	0	6

Confirmed Claims: 0
Casualties: 0
Award/ Promotions Requests:

After Action report(using QOTS):
Zone 1: We took off in gloomy weather but formed up after breaking through the clouds without incident.
Zone 2-4: Nothing to report. 
Zone 5: Random Event – tight formation

Zone 6: Nothing to report.
Zone 7: Other than some light, inconsequential flak, nothing to report.
Zone 8a: The first fighter opposition arrived with a P-47 taking care of one of them while we traded shots with the other with nothing being decided.
Zone 8b: At the IP we were met by two more of Goering’s Goon’s, but our escorts cleared them out and we entered the flak field and received three hits, the port wing root and starboard fuel tank, which sealed itself being the worst of it.
Lesniak managed 20% of our payload on target, hitting some buildings and the tower.
INBOUND
The flak was lighter and missed us as we headed for the rally point. Once past the flak, two 410 started to move in. But our escorts knocked one away, the other heavily damaged by Talking Spirit as it passed by the tail after failing to hit us from 10:30. While it was doubtful that the Kraut made it very far after this, it could only be listed as probable.
Zone 7: Two more of Goering’s Goons came at us, but the boys of the 367th FG took exception to that. We continued on our way taking some light flak that was inaccurate.
Zone 6: Some fighters appeared, but formation fire turned them away. Some careless gunner in another bomber put a round into our bomb bay area, but it was thankfully only minor damage.
Zone 5-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: The weather was far better than it was when we took off and we landed without any problems.

Overall, we had a successful mission. We had some heavier damage than we’ve experienced in a while, but our ground crew is already hard at work to ensure that we’ll be in the air for the next one.

1st Lt, Dan Shantz, Pilot Commanding, 79th BS

[medic1]

B24D-CO-42-72991 INCENDIARY SUE

Pilot: 1st Lt Joe Waldron
Squadron: 78th Bombardment Squadron (Composite), 509th (H) Bombardment Group
Formation/Position: High / Middle
Missions This Bomber: 19
Mission Date: 10 June 44
Mission Number: 077
Mission Target: Nantes/Bougeumaie, France - Airdrome

CREW	MISSION #	CLAIMS	TODAY	STATUS
Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron	19	0	0	RTD
Co-Pilot 2nd Lt Dave Arnock	19	0	0	RTD
Bombardier 2nd Lt Tony Romsberg	19	2	0	RTD
Navigator 2nd Lt Ken Hamilton	19	2	0	RTD
Engineer S/Sgt Roy Stelmach	19	7	1	RTD
RO T/Sgt Roger Druce	19	0	0	RTD
Tunnel Gunner Sgt Bill Kadlec	19	5	.5	RTD
PWG Sgt Thomas Cantrall	10	1	0	RTD
SWG S/Sgt Jim Muzzarelli	4	0	0	RTD
Tail Gunner Sgt Clay Shipman	10	0	.5	RTD

Bomb Run: On
On Target: 50%
B-24 Damage: 1 Hit
Superficial (2)
Peckham Points: 2
Repair Time: Overnight maintenance
Crew Chief: S/Sgt Jay Decker (mod base =0)
Landing: Safe at Sudburry, England
E/A Encountered:

E/A TYPE	ENCOUNTERED	DESTROYED	PROBABLE/DENIED	DAMAGED	INTERCEPTED
Bf-109	9	2	1	1	3
Bf-110	1	0	0	0	1
Fw-190	10	0	0	1	7
Ju-88	1	0	0	0	1
Me-410	0	0	0	0	0
Me-163	0	0	0	0	0
Me-262	0	0	0	0	0
Ta-152	0	0	0	0	0
TOTALS	21	2	1	2	12

Confirmed Claims: 2
S/Sgt Roy Stelmach 1 x Bf-109
Sgt Bill Kadlec .5 x Bf-109
Sgt Clay Shipman .5 x Bf-109
Casualties: 0

Award/ Promotions Requests:

AM (2nd awarded) Sgt Thomas Cantrell, Sgt Clay Shipman

After Action Report (using QOTS):

Zone 1: It was dark and drizzling when we took off, but all formed up without any problems. .
Zone 2-5: Nothing to report.

Zone 6: Five 109 came in from different angles of attack. Three were intercepted by P-47’s and Stelmach damaged another that was diving on us, throwing off the pilot’s aim who continued his dive towards the lower squadrons.
The remaining fighter put a harmless round into us and circled around for another run but had to bug out to avoid our escorts.
Zone 7: Encountered some light flak that was well off the mark.

Zone 8a: Three 190 singled us out, but two had to turn away and meet some P-47’s who had latched onto them. The other 190 approached on our six and received damage from Shipman’s tail guns, the fighter snapped off a short burst and left in a hurry.

Zone 8b: As we turned and started to line up our bomb run, we were met by two waves of opposition:
1st wave – one Ju-88 climbed towards us but fell to a diving Thunderbolt.
2nd wave – Two 109 and a 110. The 110 was chased off and one 109 was heavily damaged (probable) by Hamilton at 10:30.
The flak didn’t find us, and that gave us a bit of a smoother ride which allowed Romsberg to focus on his task, and he finally did some damage – 50%!
INBOUND

Past the flak, five more fighters swarmed in. Two of the three 190 were intercepted by escorts leaving a 190 (1:30 level) and two 109 (3 level, 6 low). Stelmach drew a bead on the 3:00, his fire shredding the canopy and cockpit area sending the 109 corkscrewing towards the ground. Kadlec and Shipman tag teamed the other 109 as one set the engine on fire while the other snapped off a wing, the fighter dropping to earth to join his countryman. The 190 escaped.
Zone 7: : Experienced some light flak and four 190. Three were intercepted and nothing came from the only one to get through.

Zone 6-2: Nothing to report.
Zone 1: The weather was far better as we returned and landed without any complications.

It’s been a while since we all felt like we had a good mission. Not only did we hit the target, we walloped it hard and caused some significant damage to the Kraut base. We also showed up with our guns, taking out two or three of the Luftwaffe’s ever dwindling fighter force and damaged a couple of others.

All in all, we’re one satisfied crew and plan to put a major dent in the beer supply tonight at the Eagle.

1st Lt Pilot 1st Lt Joe Waldron, Pilot Commanding, Incendiary Sue, 78th BS