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B-24D Momma's Boys

Crew Chief TSgt Robert (Bobbie) Raleigh

Mission Flown: 7 (current through Mission 007)

First Mission: 001 Ploesti, Romania 12 Jun 42

Last Mission Flown: 007 Tel el Eisa, Egypt, 21 Jul 42, CAT E

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Momma’s Boys
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 12 June 1942
MISSION NBR. 1/1
TARGET: Ploesti, Romania, Astra Oil Refinery
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Bomber Stream

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (1) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (1) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (1) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (1) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (1) [0] ***
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (1) [0] LW(Rt Shoulder Grazed) RTD 15 June 42
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee (1) [0] *#
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule (1) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz (1) [0] #
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (1) [0] *

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 6=4 KIA, 2 Undamaged (2 Ace)
Me 110 1=1 KIA
G 50 2=1 KIA, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
9
Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: 1 1/3 Me 109
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee: ½ Me 110
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz: ½ Me 110

Bomb Run: On Target, 20%

B-17 Damage: Superficial x 7 (14), LW x1 (2), RT Tailplane x1 (25), Nose Gun Inoperable: Jam (10)
Peckham Points: = 51 Peckham Points, AC ready 13 June 42

Casualties:
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper LW(Rt Shoulder Grazed) RTD 15 June 42

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper: Purple Heart

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“We spend all that time sweating out formation flying and now we’re gonna go up one at a time!” Sgt Mike O’Doule grouses as the crew of Momma’s Boys bounces across the Egyptian desert in the back of a deuce-and-a-half. “Whatever happened ta the idea that we provide each other supportin’ fire?”

“You really want to try and maintain formation position in the dead of night?” Sgt Steven Harper asks O’Doule.

Sgt Tom Fitz chimes in, “Not me. ‘sides, the Major said this way we’ll have surprise.”

“Yeah,” Sgt Johnny Lee sounds less than convinced. “Maybe fer the first one or two ships. After that…the Krauts’ll know where to look for the rest of us as we com in like a bunch o’ mice followin’ the Pied Piper.”

“The who?” Fitz asks.

Seated beside his skipper, 2LT Mark Walstonburg waits for ‘The Old Man’ to put an end to the complaints. But, given that its talk just among them Capt Clark Martin isn’t too worried. Besides, the time to worry is when the men stop griping. As if to emphasize that point, the discussion ends with the truck’s arrival at the hardstand.

Despite the dark take off went well and, there being no assembly per se, we took up our position in the long string of bombers. As briefed, there was no enemy interference while the sun was down. Sunrise found us crossing the Greek coast (Zone 9) and we could just make out the bombers in front and behind us. Even with the daylight it looked like the Brass was right and, improbable as it seemed, we had achieved surprise!

It wasn’t until we neared the target (Zone 11) that we encountered any resistance. Of course, by then the enemy was on full alert and the sky was filled with both bandits and flak. We had a lone Me 109 come at us and he was quickly dispatched by Ted (TSgt Barnes). While we saw two more waves forming up, they focused on the bombers ahead of and behind us. Though intense, the flak failed to find us on the way in. Johnny (Sgt Lee) said he saw several of our bombs hit storage tanks; Jim (2LT Harmon) estimates about 20% effects on target. Though less intense, the flak gunners on the way out were more accurate. While we got hit, it proved to be inconsequential. Coming out of the flak we were met by a pair of G 50s, downing one while the other took a chunk out of Steven’s (Sgt Harper) right shoulder. Even so, Sgt Harper continued to man his post. Though he missed the other bandit as he flew by, Pappy (Sgt Monson) proclaimed he was feeling lucky (Random Event: Ace For A day).

Crossing into Bulgaria (Zone 10) we saw more EA in the distance but none approached. The same thing over Greece (Zone 9).

Once we hit the Aegean (Zone 8) the Luftwaffe got a bit more aggressive. A pair of Me 109s came in. TSgt Barnes claimed his second kill of the day, the biggest impact of the attack being that Jim’s (2LT Harmon) gun jammed, subsequently proving unrepairable. While another wave formed up it didn’t press the attack.

Over Crete (Zone 6) we ran into more trouble, a trio of 109s and a twin-engine 110. With the nose gun out of commission this proved to be a trickier fight. Even so, once the smoke cleared we had downed three bandits while coming through relatively unscathed. Of course the Review Board didn’t see things the same way.

Heading across the Med we spotted several enemy formations (Zones 5 and 4) but they remained in the distance. Closer to home (Zone 3) we ran into an unexpected cold front that froze up both the Left Cheek and Tail guns. Thankfully, we didn’t need them again the rest of the mission.

With daylight, CAVU conditions, and the Group’s AC spread out in a long string there were no delays or problems in landing. TSgt Raleigh says his boys will have Momma’s Boys all patched up and ready to go in no time, actually rather pleased we didn‘t bring her home in worse shape. Doc says that Sgt Harper will have to suffer under the care of the nurses for a couple of day before he returns to flight duty.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Momma’s Boys
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

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Momma’s Boys
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 15 June 1942
MISSION NBR. 2/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Mediterranean near Malta, Italian Fleet
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High/Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (2) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (2) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (2) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (2) [0] *# LW(Upper RT Arm) RTD 19 Jun 42
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (2) [3] ***##
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (2) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee (2) [1 1/2] **
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule (2) [0] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz (2) [1/2] #
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (2) [1] *

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 16=6 KIA, 5 Damaged, 2 to RAF, 3 Undamaged (6 Ace, 3 Green)
Fw 190 2=1 Damaged, 1 to RAF
C 202 8=3 KIA, 4 Damaged, 1 to RAF, 1 Undamaged (5 Ace, 3 Green)
26

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio: 1/3 C 202
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: 1 1/3 Me 109, ½ C 202
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee: ½ Me 109
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule: ½ Me 109
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: ½ Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target: Ship damaged & Slowed (subsequently lost to sub)

B-17 Damage: Superficial x3 (6), LW x1 (2), RT Flap: NE (5), Rudder x1 (10), Bomb Release Mechanism: Mechanical Failure (10), Elevator Instruments: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 43 Peckham Points, AC ready 16 June 42

Casualties: Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (2) [0] *# LW(Upper RT Arm) RTD 19 Jun 42

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio: Purple Heart

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

Takeoff and assembly went as briefed and we took up our position at the head of the high formation then headed out over the Med. Once we left our Little Friends behind (Zone 5) the enemy started to show up. Their first several appearances (Zone 6 & 8) were in the distance. But that wasn’t going to last forever. The first hit against us (Zone 10) was by the Gremlin Air Force; the controls for the elevators failing.

As we got nearer the Italian Fleet (Zone 11) we ran into their scouts, who were out in force as briefed. Fist in was a pair of C 202s and an Me 109 of the Regia Aeronautica. Ted (TSgt Barnes) made short work of the 109 while one of the 202s eventually fell to the combined fire of the Top Turret, Right Cheek, and Right Waist guns, though not before winging Carmel (2LT Defenzio). The other 202 took a hit and damn near crashed into us!

The sky over the Fleet (Zone 12) was even thicker with bandits. Three more 202s and another 109 bore in on us. Even though the trio of 202s all wore ace’s markings their marksmanship was off today, the only damage being to 2LT Defenzio’s equipment. We hit all three, sending two limping for Italia while Pappy (Sgt Monson) flamed the other when he passed by our tail. A Hurricane of either the RAF or RNAF made short work of the 109. While two more waves formed up, their attention was focused elsewhere in the formation. The flak was intense, but with the ships below maneuvering they didn’t have a solid base from which to fire. Even so, we took some damage to the rudder and right wing. Our bombs feel around what looked to be a cruiser. The ship slowed noticeably as an oil slick developed in its wake. Flak on target egress was totally ineffective, but we did encounter two large waves of bandits. First in were four 109s and an Fw, the latter chased of by the Brits. None of the Krauts hit anything despite two aces among their number. Carmel (2LT Defenzio) shot the tail off one bandit while Johnny (Sgt Lee) downed another. The next wave was four more 109s, reduced to three courtesy of a Spitfire. Sgt Lee bagged one while TSgt Barnes and Sgt O’Doule ganged up to claim another.

Heading for home, we ran into another patrol of the Regia Aeronautica (Zone 9) consisting of three 202s and a 109, again sporting a pair of aces. WE got the better end of that deal, taking no damage while flaming one bandit and sending another away trailing thick smoke.

Further on (Zone 5) we ran into another two waves of EA, this time the Luftwaffe. While the formation had linked back up with our escort, they were occupied elsewhere as a trio of Me 109s attacked. Ted (TSgt Barnes claimed yet another victim. This was followed up by two more 109s who, while they escaped with their lives, did no damage to us.

Almost home (Zone 2) and the Gremlin Air Force struck again as Jim (2LT Harmon) got a fault indicator on the bomb release. Fortunately, it wasn’t going to affect mission performance at this point.

With clear skies and tarmac and most systems working, the landing presented no problems. TSgt Raleigh says he’ll have the old girl back up and running tomorrow, though I told him to make sure and troubleshoot all the systems. Carmel (2LT Defenzio) is looking forward to his turn with the nurses, promising he’ll do better than Sgt Harper did. He’ll have until 19 Jun to make good on his boast.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Momma’s Boys
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

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Momma’s Boys
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 26 June 1942
MISSION NBR. 3/This Bomber 3
TARGET: Tobruk, Libya, Harbor
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low/Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (3) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (3) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (3) [0] ##
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (3) [1 1/3] #
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (3) [6 5/6] ###
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (3) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee (3) [2 1/2] *
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule (3) [1/2]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz (3) [5/6]
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (3) [2] *

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
FW 190A 3=1 KIA, 2 Damaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 109 5=2 KIA, 2 Damaged, 1 to P-40 (2 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 1=1 KIA (1 Ace)
C 202 4=1 KIA, 3 to P-40 (1 Ace)
13

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon: ½ Me 109
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: 2 Me 109, 1 C 202
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee: ½ Me 110

Bomb Run: On Target, 50%

B-17 Damage: Superficial x1 (2)
Peckham Points: 2 Peckhma Points, AC ready 27 Jun 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safew at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: DFC for 3 credited KIA in on mission

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
The big bomber starts to lumber down the runway as only a B-24 can. Just past the point of no return TSgt Ted Barnes, crouched between the pilot and co-pilot so he can watch the engine gauges calls out, “Pressure Drop on #2!”

Capt Clark Martin swears under his breath and steals a glance out the window. Near as he can tell #2 seems to be working just fine. “You sure ‘bout that, Ted?” he asks the flight engineer as Martin returns his attention to the ever shrinking runway ahead.

“Whadda we do, Skip?” 2LT Mark Walstonburg asks, a hint of panic in his voice.

“Pull back on the yoke and pray,” Martin says between gritted teeth.

Despite the gauge reading #2 continues to run and the big bomber lifts off the ground.

“Musta been a fluke,” TSgt Barnes announces, the relief evident in his voice. “Everything’s reading fine now.”

“OK. But let’s keep an eye on it anyhow,” Martin instructs his co-pilot and engineer.

There was a moment of panic on takeoff when it looked the #2 engine was failing, but it turned out to be a false alarm(Takeoff Incident) and we managed to take up our position at the head of the low squadron without any further trouble.

As briefed, the flight out was pretty uneventful – other than that initial shot of adrenalin at takeoff. Our first encounter with the Luftwaffe didn’t happen until we were almost on top of Tobruk (Zone 7), then the Luftwaffe came out in force to greet us. First in were a pair of 190s and a 109, two of the bandits being aces. We hit all three, though only downed one when Pappy (Sgt Monson) caught him as he passed the tail. Jerry did much worse, although this attack did inflict the only damage we took this mission. After seeing the beating their comrades took, the second wave broke off before attacking. A third wave consisting of a 110 and a 109 were made of sterner stuff, much to their detriment as Johnny (Sgt Lee) flamed the twin-engine fighter while the 109 flew into the crossfire of Jim (2LT Harmon) and TSgt Barnes. Then it was into the Flak after which 2LT Harmon put at least half our bombs squarely on the port facilities. There was no Flak on the way out, though we did run into another FW and 109, both sent on their way trailing smoke. Then we headed back out over the Med with Jerry in pursuit.

As we drew nearer our own fighters (Zone 6) several made an attempt to reach us. While still out of their range, their demonstrated aggressiveness was enough to discourage our pursuers (Random Event: Aggressive Little Friends and a second wave result of None).

The Luftwaffe left it to the Italians once we were back in fighter range (Zone 5) and we found ourselves facing a pair of C 202s and a 109 of the Regia Aeronautica. The boys in the P-40s chased off the 202s while 2LT Harmon and TSgt Barnes double teamed the 109. It was enough to discourage a second wave from trying their luck.

Nearer home (Zone 3) we had a repeat performance, though this time the P-40s left us one of the 202s and Ted’s (TSgt Branes) partner on the kill was 2LT Defenzio, fresh from the hospital and eager to avenge the injury to his pride.

The landing back at Fayid was right out of the textbook and, as reported earlier, we took minimal damage. While the boys got a number of kills the Review Board didn’t quite see it that way. On the other hand, they did credit TSgt Barnes with three kills so I’m putting him in for a DFC.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Momma’s Boys
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

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Momma’s Boys
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 8 July 1942
MISSION NBR. 4/This Bomber 4
TARGET: Behghazi,, Libya, Port Facilities
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Night Mission, Bomber Stream,

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (4) [0]
Co-Pilot: Maj Winston (Wink) Martindale (1) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (4) [1] #
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (4) [1 5/6]
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (4) [6 1/6] #
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (4) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee (4) [3 1/2]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule (4) [1/2]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz (4) [5/6]
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (4) [3]

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 2=1 KIA, 1 to P-40 (1 Green)
2

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon: Me 109
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: ½ Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-17 Damage: None
Peckham Points: 0, AC ready 9 Jul 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Lydda

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (3) [0]

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
The absence of 2LT Mark Walstonburg, Momma’s Boys co-pilot, in the deuce-and-a-half bouncing across the darkened desert confirms the rumors that the Old Man, Maj Wink Martindale will be flying with them on this mission. Not surprisingly, it generates a number of comments. Half listening, Capt Clark Martin tries to assure that none get too disrespectful.

Once at the aircraft, the men stand about joking among themselves in an effort to bolster their courage, or at least to avoid thinking about what might happen in the next several hours. The conversation comes to sudden end as a jeep pulls up and a lone figure steps out.

“Capt Martin?” the Maj calls out, as the jeep drives off.

“Here, sir!” Clark shoots his men a cautionary look, wasted in the darkness, and approaches Martindale. When he finally gets the Major in view, he is almost taken aback. The Major is wearing a standard-issue AAF officer's hat, instead of his usual pith helmet.

“Let’s get this show on the road, Capt.”

They climb into the Bomb Bay. At the ladder, Clark steps aside to let the Maj go first.

Once in the cockpit, Martindale notices the control panel is much busier than the one he used in the B-18. "Too bad I didn't have the opportunity to get certified on one of these before my transfer.", he thought to himself.

“The Liberator’s a little different than the Bolo,” Clark comments, immediately regretting it and preparing for a browbeating.

To Martin’s surprise, Martindale simply says, “Yes. I see that. Just tell me what I need to know.”

“Best way to get familiar with everything is to go through the pre-flight.” From behind them, TSgt Barnes hands Maj Martindale a clipboard with the checklist on it. He remains in place, ready to point out anything should the Maj seem to hesitate. Unlike the joking earlier, Barnes’ attitude is on of respectful assistance, if for no other reason than that his life may well depend on the Major’s performance.

Feeling a little less tense, Martin says, “Alright, Wink, what's item one?” When the Maj glares at him, ready to dress him down, Clark reminds him of their previous conversation, “I’m in command on my ship. And we keep things pretty informal, to reduce the tension…sir. Now, item number one?”

Other than the stress of having the Old Man sitting beside me the whole way, evaluating every move and order I gave, this mission was a milk run. Carmel (2LT Defenzio) earned his keep, getting us to the target and back despite the occasional patch of clouds.

Approaching the target (Zone 10), we could see the flares dropped by the RAF. While the Brits had stirred up the Jerries, none of the searchlights crisscrossing the sky found us, nor did any of the Flak bursts which appeared to be fired at random. Even so, I didn’t envy the guys further back in the stream. While the flares helped us find the target they also raised havoc with Jim’s (2LT (Harmon) vision. He figures only about a third of our ordnance hit the target. Target egress was easy, the searchlights and flak already seeking out the next arrival.

The flight home was equally uneventful until just after sunrise (Zone 2) when we ran across a pair of Me 109s. Fortunately for us, we also encountered a P-40 who chased one Jerry off while Jim (2LT Harmon) and Ted (TSgt Barnes) put paid to the other.

I’m glad we had daylight for the landing, Lydda being an unfamiliar airfield, and everything went off without a hitch. Not sure what Maj Martindale thought of the whole thing, but I’m happy with the way the boys, and Momma’s Boys, performed. We’ll all be ready for the next mission.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Momma’s Boys
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

Read more: 509th-vbw.proboards.com/thread/1648/mission-004-bengasi-libya-night?page=1#ixzz5yIaAOmkc

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Momma’s Boys
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 14 July 1942
MISSION NBR. 5/This Bomber 5
TARGET: Ruweisat Ridge, Egypt, Italian Troops
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Lead,

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (5) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (4) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (5) [1 1/2]
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (5) [1 5/6]
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (5) [6 5/6] *
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (5) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee (5) [3 1/2] #
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule (5) [1/2]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz (5) [5/6]
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (5) [3] #

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 6=2 KIA, 1 Damaged, 3 to P-39 (1 Ace, 2 Green)

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: Me 109
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: 1/3 Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 40%

B-17 Damage: Instruments: Propeller Feathering – Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 10 Peckham Points, AC ready 15 Jul 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Lydda

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin: Air Medal
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon: Air Medal
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio: Air Medal
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: Air Medal
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper: Air Medal
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee: Air Medal
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule: Air Medal
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz: Air Medal
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: Air Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Where’s all that air cover we’re supposed to have?” Sgt Mike O’Doule’s voice is drowned out by the chattering of his .50 MG as three Me 109s bear down on Momma’s Boys uncontested by any Little Friends.

“Busy helpin’ others out, as what needs it more’n us,” Sgt Pappy Monson’s steady voice answers over the roar of his own twin .50s.

Takeoff and assembly went well and we were soon winging our way toward the target at the head of the low squadron. I’d heard others complaining about maintenance issues, and we had experienced some of our own before. Looked like this time we were once more in the sights of the Gremlin Air Force as getting near the target (Zone 3) the controls for feathering the props went on the fritz; how apropos that expression seems. Knowing that if an engine got hit we might have to bailout over enemy territory I considered aborting. However, being this close to the target and leading the squadron I decided to press on.

The skies over the target (Zone 4) were full of EA as promised, thought the promised friendly support seemed a bit scarcer. We saw three separate waves form up to attack. The first one, for whatever reason balked. Then a trio of 109s bore in on us unfettered by any Little Friends. While led by an ace, his wingman seemed a bit greener and we managed to flame two and send the third bandit off trailing thick smoke. Seeing what happened to their friends, the third wave thought better of attacking us, choosing to bother someone less inclined to put up a fight. Flak was light and inaccurate and Jim (2LT Harmon) managed to put 40% of our bombs along the Italian positions.

While there seemed to be more EA as we left the target we only found ourselves up against another trio of 109s. This time some P-39s that were strafing the Italian positions came up to chase the bandits away. After that we turned for the Med and the rest of the flight home and landing were uneventful. The only damage being the defective feathering controls, Momma’s Boys, both bomber and crew, will be ready for the next mission.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Momma’s Boys
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Momma’s Boys
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 17 July 1942
MISSION NBR. 6/This Bomber 6
TARGET: Bardia, Libya, Port Facilities
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Lead,

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (6) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (5) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (6) [1 1/2] #
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (6) [1 5/6]
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (6) [7 5/6] *#
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (6) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee (6) [4] **#
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule (6) [1/2] *
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz (6) [5/6]
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (6) [4] ***#

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 15=5 KIA, 2 Damaged, 4 to P-40, 4 Undamaged (5 Ace, 2 Green)
Fw 190A 5=2 Damaged, 2 to P-40, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
C 202 10=4 KIA, 3 Damaged, 2 to P-40, 1 Undamaged (3 Ace, 3 Green)
30

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee: 1.2 Me 109
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule: ½ Me 109
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 40%

B-17 Damage: Superficial x 6 (12), Pilot compartment Heat (10), Tail Heat (10), Left Tailplane (25), Left Wing root x1 (25), Ball Turret Power: Mechanical Failure (20), Back Up Hydraulic Pump (10)
Peckham Points: 112 Peckham Points, AC ready 19 Jul 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Lydda

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg: Air Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Think the Skipper’d drop outta formation if it was one o’ us was without heat?” Sgt Mike O’Doule asks his partner in the waist, Sgt Johnny Lee when Capt Clark Martin announces they’ll be dropping out of formation due to a heat loss in the cockpit.

“Ta be honest,” Lee looks directly at O’Doule, who always seems to be looking for a fight, “I’d jus’ as soon the man flyin’ this thing have the use of his hands.”

“Yeah. I suppose that would be better,” O’Doule concedes.

“Now turn back to y’all’s side o’ the plane an’ watch fer bandits.”

Takeoff and assembly went well, if you discount the griping about drawing low cell again, and we were soon winging our way over the blue waters of the Med at the front of the 78th.

We were a little over halfway to the target (Zone 5) when we had our first run in with the Luftwaffe, but when they came they came in force. The first wave had four Me 109s. Two fell to our Little Friends. While that was good, it made me worry about what was going to happen once we were beyond their range. The boys were on the ball, flaming one bandit and sending the other limping for home. It was enough to discourage the second wave forming up, thought the third got up their courage, an FW and another 109 coming in. The 109 got tangled up with some P-40s and while the 190 hit us, it was all superficial. He must have ben diving too fast to get a good shot, not that I’m complaining.

As we drew nearer the target (Zone 6) we could see more bandits in the distance. Thankfully they stayed there.

As we approached the target (Zone 7) we were challenged by a pair of C 202s and a 109 of the Regia Aeronautica. The Italians came out on the short end of that exchange, one pilot hitting the silk and the other two trailing smoke as they fled. Flak wasn’t a problem, though we did have a couple of near misses (rolls of 3 and 11). Jim (2LT Harmon) estimates 40% of our bombs hit the port facilities based upon a break in the storm. Flak on egress was no worse, thought the sky was now full of EA, 3 waves hitting us. The Luftwaffe was first in with two 190s and a 109. While we hit Jerry, we didn’t down any. The Krauts managed to knock out the heat in both the cockpit and the tail. Not wanting to be shown up by their allies, the Italians came at us next with five 202s and a 109. WE did better there, blowing three bandits out of the sky in exchange for a losing the left tailplane. Apparently miffed by the Italian’s success, the Krauts came back in with five 109s. Proving they were the Italian’s equal, Jerry lost three fighters, though not before taking out the back up hydraulic pump and hitting the left wing root.

To add insult to injury, as we headed back over the Egyptian desert (Zone 6) the power went out on the ball turret. By this time, the cold was starting to affect my and Mark’s (2LT Walstonburg) ability to handle the controls so I had to drop out of formation to a warmer altitude.

We saw more enemy formations in the distance (1 in Zone 5 and 2 in Zone 4), but they didn’t bother us. Crossing over various Italian and German formations we drew some ground fire but didn’t take any damage. Then as we crossed the lines (Zone 3) we ran into a pair of Fw 190s and an Me 109. By then there were plenty of P-40s n the area and they made short work of Jerry. This was followed by a trio of 202s and another 109. The boys in the Warhawks claimed two and we got another, the fourth just barely making it out of there. After that it was just a short hop to Lydda.

Momma’s Boys got shot up more than usual. TSgt Raleigh and his gang will be busy for a couple of days. Fortunately we didn’t suffer any crew casualties.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Momma’s Boys
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Momma’s Boys (BIP in Waist and Belly Landing: CAT E)
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 21 July 1942
MISSION NBR. 7/This Bomber 7
TARGET: Tel el Eisa, Egypt, Artillery Emplacements
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Lead,

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (7) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (6) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (7) [2] *
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (7) [1 5/6]
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (7) [9 1/3] ***#
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (7) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee (7) [6 1/2] *# KIA from BIP
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule (7) [1 1/2] KIA from BIP
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz (7) [5/6] KIA from BIP
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (7) [7 1/2] **

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 8=4 KIA, 2 Damaged, 2 Undamaged (4 Ace, 1 Green)
Fw 190A 4=1 KIA, 3 Damaged (2 Ace, 2 Green)
Me 110 1=1 to P-40
C 202 5=2 KIA, 1 Damaged, 2 Undamaged (2 Ace, 1 Green)
G 50 2=1 KIA, 1 to P-40
20

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: Me 109, C 202, 1/3 Fw 190
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: ½ Me 109, 1/3 C 202

Bomb Run: On Target, 20%

B-17 Damage: BIP in Waist, AC CAT E
Peckham Points: AC CAT E

Casualties:
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee: KIA from BIP
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule: KIA from BIP
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz: KIA from BIP

Landing: Crew safe at Lydda but Bomber CAT E

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Johnny Lee: Purple Heart, posthumous
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Michael (Mike) O’Doule: Purple Heart, posthumous
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Fitz: Purple Heart, posthumous

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
Long after the other bombers have returned there comes the familiar droning of Pratt and Whitney cyclones. A moment later a lone B-24 comes into view.

“My God!” one of the tower personnel exclaims. “What’s holding that thing together?”

As other look, they see the reason for his amazement, the entire waist of the bomber seemingly gone!

I guess this was the mission where we paid for having it easy up to now. Takeoff and assembly went well, with Momma’s Boys taking up position at the front of the High Squadron. Things stayed pretty quiet until we got to the target (Zone 4) when it hit the fan in spades!

First up were the EA. They were everywhere and out promised escort was nowhere to be found save a lone P-40, Leaving us to square off against a pair of ace 109s. While we flamed one, the other walked his fire across our wings. On the plus side, all he achieved was putting in a bunch of holes before coming around for what proved to be his final pass. Then we were facing four FWs and another 109, with three aces among them. While we only got one, the others were pretty well shot up by the time they left. In exchange, they knocked out my O2. But before I could react the Italians had a go at us with five C 202s and a 109, with another three aces. By the end of that engagement the Regia Aeronautica was short three fighters while we lost control of the Ailerons.

Then the Flak started in. By now we had already dropped out of formation when the whole plane shook, accompanied by a loud noise. I had people check in and there was no response form the waist. Still, despite being out of Formation I figured we might as well try to bomb the target. Jim (2LT Harmon) estimates about 20% within the CEP. It was about then that Ted (TSgt Barnes) swore over the interphone. I guess he’d just noticed the cause of our loud noise and jolt: the entire waist was a shambles, apparently having taken a direct hit from the Flak. That also helped explain why there was no response from the waist and why the controls were so sluggish.

We took some more Flak damage on the way out, but nothing like the way in. While there were still plenty of EA circling, I guess most of them figured we were already finished, two of the three waves not bothering us. There was a group of four 109s that found out we weren’t quite as finished as we looked. We downed one and sent another limping for home. Still no friendly fighters though.

As we watched the rest of the formation fly off (second turn in Zone 4 homebound) we saw one wave form up and then race off after the formation. Passing over the enemy lines, we took some ground fire but suffered no damage.

As we continued on (Zone 3 1st Turn) we encountered a pair of G 50s. A P-40 appeared out of the blew and engaged one bandit while we got the other. Then, adding insult to injury (Zone 3 2nd Turn) the Main Landing Gear suddenly just dropped. By now it was obvious that Momma’s Boys wasn’t going to fly again, assuming we even made it home.

Fortunately nothing more happened until we were approaching Lydda (2nd turn Zone 1). I considered bailing out but figured I’d try to get Sgts Lee, O’Doule, and Fitz home for a proper burial. The rest of the crew decided to take their chances with the Old Girl as well. Those B-17 boys can say what they like about their Fortresses. All I know is that Momma’s Boys held together for us.

With no Ailerons and inoperable landing gear, it was a touchy landing. Momma’s Boys is a total loss, but she got us home unharmed. I guess we’ll need a new bomber for the next mission, as well as replacements for Lee, O’Doule, and Fitz. In the meantime, I need a stiff drink, or five.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Momma’s Boys
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B-24D Golem

Crew Chief TSgt Robert (Bobbie) Raleigh

Mission Flown: 4 (current through Mission 011)

First Mission: 008 Suda Bay, Crete 22 Jul 42

Last Mission Flown: 011, Tobruk, Libya, 7/8 Aug 42 CAT E

[crushedhat]

Golem
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 22 July 1942
MISSION NBR. 8/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Suda Bay, Crete, Shipping
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Middle,

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (8) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (7) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (8) [3]
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (8) [1 5/6]
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (8) [12 5/6] ###
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (8) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez (1) [0]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack (1) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa (1) [0] #
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (8) [9 1/2] **##

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 12=3 KIA, 7 Damaged, 2 Undamaged (4 Ace, 3 Green)
Me 110 1=1 KIA
C 202 2=1 KIA, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace,)
15

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: ½ Me 110
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: 1 1/6 Me 109, C 202

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-17 Damage: Superficial x 1 (2)
Peckham Points: 2 Peckham Points, AC ready 23 Jul 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and Crew safe at Lydda

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Didya see that? Didya see that?” Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa grabs the shoulder of Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack and points excitedly out the Starboard waist opening at the plummeting Me 100. “I got ‘im! My first kill!”

“Great” Mack replies, shrugging off Brzechwa’s grip and turning back to his own station. Under his breath he mutters, “Just don’t let it be your last.” Still, he can’t help but be upset that he lost his bet as to which o the new waist gunners would score first.

The survivors of Momma’s Boys along with the new men boarded Golem and took up our position in the squadron. While I now the crew didn’t mind being nestled safely in the middle of the formation, It felt strange not leading.

The flight to the target went as briefed, with our first encounter with the Luftwaffe taking place shortly after turning for Crete (Zone 7) when a lone Me 109 attacked. Ted (TSgt Barnes) shot him up enough to throw off his aim and discourage any further attacks.

More 109s, three, and a twin-engine Me 110 greeted us as we began our bomb run (Zone 8). We hit all four, blasting the 110 out of the sky and seriously chewing up two of the 109s. Then it was into the Flak. Thankfully the Flak gunners didn’t have our number. Jim (2LT Hanson) estimates about 30% of our bombs found a ship to call home. There was no Flak on the way out, though enemy fighter resistance was stronger. The first wave was distracted and didn’t manage to hit us. Four Me 109s out of the second wave bore in. There were a couple of green pilots among them yet surprisingly it was the other two we shot down, taking a superficial hit in return.

Heading across Crete and back over the Med (Zone 7) a pair of Italian C 202s attacked. Pappy (Sgt Monson) flamed one and the other dove on past us. Then four more Me 109s gave it a try. The tails of all four marked them as aces. We flamed one, hit another, and sent a third off trailing thick smoke.

The rest of the flight home was a Sunday drive with an uneventful landing to initiate our new plane and crewmembers.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Golem
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Golem
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 30 July 1942
MISSION NBR. 9/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Pylos Bay, Greece, Port Facilities
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle,

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (9) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (8) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (9) [3]
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (9) [1 5/6]
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (9) [14 1/6] *#
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (9) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez (2) [0] *#
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack (2) [0] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa (2) [1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (9) [12 1/2] #

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190A 1=1 Undamaged (1 Ace)
Me 109 4=2 KIA, 2 Undamaged (2 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 1=1 KIA (1 Green)
C 202 2=1 KIA, 1 Undamaged (2 Green,)
8

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: 1/3 Me 109, 1/3 C 202
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez: Me 109, 1/3 Me 110
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack: ½ Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 50%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x1 (2), Tail O2 (10)
Peckham Points: 12 Peckham Points, AC ready 31 July 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

The first half of the mission, Takeoff/Assembly/ flight to the target, was uneventful. Once we reached the target (Zone 9) that all changed. While there were lots of EA in the skies over Pylos Bay (3 Waves) most were occupied with other bomber. The only bandit to challenge us on target ingress was a lone Fw 190 diving out of the sun. He missed us and we missed him. After that the Flak started, possibly discouraging the third wave from attacking. Though the Flak was light, we did take a couple of hits, one stopping the oxygen flow to the tail. Not nearly as bad as we saw Christine get hit. With no other choice, I dropped out of formation and to Angels 10 to continue the bomb run. Perhaps this was a good thing as Jim (2LT Harmon) put half our bombs squarely on the docks and associated facilities.

Flak on target egress was less effective, Golem suffering no damage. Coming out of the Flak we were met by four Me 109s, including two aces. No longer constrained by the need to maintain position, I put Golem through series of jinks and other maneuvers in hopes of throwing Jerry’s aim off. It worked as we took no damage. Despite the unsteady firing platform, we did manage to down two bandits.

Heading back for home (Zone 8) we had an Me 110 climb up to meet us. I again took evasive action. I swear the guy was using Sgt Dominez’ tracers as a guide, flying right into them and oblivion.

Just before reaching the limits of friendly air cover (Zone 6) the Italians gave us a try with a pair of C 202s. Once more I used as much of the sky as I could to throw the enemy's aim off. It worked as one hit the silk and the other didn’t hit anything. The rest of the flight home was quiet, though the landing got a bit dicey (rolled a 2).

Golem and crew will be ready for the next mission.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Golem
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Golem
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 3 August 1942
MISSION NBR. 10/This Bomber 3
TARGET: Maleme, Crete, Airfield
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle,

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (10) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (9) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (10) [3]
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (10) [1 5/6] #
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (10) [15 2/3] **
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (10) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez (3) [1 1/2] ##
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack (3) [1/2]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa (3) [1/2] ##
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (10) [13]

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190A 1=1 Damaged
Me 109 5=3 KIA, 2 to P-40 (1 Green)
C 202 3=1 KIA, 2 Damaged (2 Ace)
G 50 1=1 Damaged (1 Ace)
10

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio: 1/3 Me 109
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: Me 109, C202
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez: Me 109
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa: 1 1/3 Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 98%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x6 (12), LT Wing Flap: NE (5), Window x1 (5), Navigator Equipment Out (10), #1 Turbocharger: Mechanical Failure (25)
Peckham Points: 52 Peckham Points, AC ready 4 Aug 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf, DFC for 98% On Target
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
Deplaning, Capt Clark Martin approaches Golem’s bombardier, 2LT Jim Hanson. “That was some impressive work you did today, Jim. I’m going to put you in for a DFC.”

“Yeah. Great job,” 2LT Carmel Defenzio echoes his skipper’s sentiments. Then he punches Hanson in the arm and adds, “Thanks to you we’ll lose our cozy spot in the center of the squadron.”

“And I was just getting used to it,” chimes in TSgt Ted Barnes.

Ted (TSgt Barnes) reported problems as we started our run up for takeoff. It looked like our #1 engine was running rough. Fortunately it settled down by the time we reached the end of the tarmac and we got airborne without any problem. Little did we know at the time that #1 wasn’t done acting up. The rest of the flight to the target was uneventful.

As we began our bomb run (Zone 7) we were met by a couple of waves of EA. First in was a trio of Me 109s. We made short work of two of them, one pilot hitting the silk while the other rode his crippled plane to the ground. The third bandit hit us, scoring minimal damage, then came around for another pass, which proved to be his undoing as he joined his comrades in Valhalla. Next a lone FW 190 dove past us so fast the neither party had much of a shot. Flak on target ingress was light and inaccurate, causing no damage. Jim (2LT Hanson) managed a medal worthy near perfect bomb drop then we turned for home. Though no heavier on target egress, the Flak was more accurate. Thankfully the damage inflicted was again minimal. Coming out of the Flak we were challenged by a lone FW 19G 50 bearing the markings of an ace. He splattered the windscreen and managed to get Pappy’s (Sgt Monson) guns jammed as he flew past our tail. Due to the G 50’s limited fuel capacity the Eye-Tie wasn’t able to make another pass. Then we were over the Aegean.

The Italians gave it another try (Zone 6) with a trio of C 202s, two flown by aces. Carmel (2LT Defenzio) filled the interphone with colorful if unintelligible Italian as one of the bandits missed him, but chewed up his table and charts. We took some more superficial damage, thought the enemy paid for it with one KIA and two probables.

Next (Zone 5) the Luftwaffe gave it another try, a pair of 109s bearing in on us. But by now we were in range of friendly support and the Krauts got tangled up with a pair of P-40s.

After that it was quiet till we were almost home (Zone 2) when the #1 engine started acting up again, the turbocharger failing. Despite the one engine out and the rain over Fayid the landing went off flawlessly.

Tsgt Raleigh wasn’t happy with the damage but says he’ll have Golem ready to fly by the next mission. They boys were all congratulating Jim (2LT Hanson) on his 98% drop until they realized it probably marked us for Squadron Lead next mission.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Golem
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Golem
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 7/8 August 1942
MISSION NBR. 11/This Bomber 4
TARGET: Tobruk, Libya, Port Facilities
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Bomber Stream, Middle,

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (11) [0] LC
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (10) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (11) [3] LC
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (11) [2 1/6] LC
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (11) [17 2/3] LC
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (11) [0] LC
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez (4) [2 1/3]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack (4) [1/2]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa (4) [1 1/3]
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (11) [13] LC

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered: None

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: DNB

B-24 Damage: Crash Landing
Peckham Points: CAT E

Casualties: None

Landing: AC lost in crash landing at Fayid but crew safe

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“Again!” 2LT Mark Walstonburg grouses as the number 3 engine starts acting up on takeoff. A moment later his complaint becomes a frantic, “Fire on number 3!”

From behind Walstonburg TSgt Ted Barnes leans over to slap the fire extinguisher button even as Capt Clark Martin banks the bomber out of its position in the bomber stream toward an empty stretch of the Med to jettison the bombs.

“Fayid,” Walstonburg speaks into the radio. “We’ve lost #3. Aborting. Request crash crew ready.” Walstonburg’s voice sounds much calmer than he feels.

“Hang on everybody. It’s going to be a rough landing,” Martin informs the crew.

For the second mission in a row we suffered an engine malfunction on takeoff. Unlike last time, this one didn’t work itself out. With the loss of #3 I decided to abort, heading out over the Med just far enough to jettison our bombs safely. Turing back to Fayid, we had to wait for the rest of the Group to get airborne before attempting to land; a dicey proposition given that it was #3 that was out. Not surprisingly, Golem didn’t survive the crash landing. On the plus side, the crew were all able to walk away. Any landing you can walk away form as the saying goes. Needless to say, we’ll need a new ship before the next mission.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Golem
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B-24D Banshee

Crew Chief TSgt Robert (Bobbie) Raleigh

Mission Flown: 3 (current through Mission 014)

First Mission: 012 Porto Lago Bay, Agean Sea 10 Aug 42

Last Mission Flown: 014, Ploetsi, Romania, 20 Aug 42 Aircraft lost to enemy action, crew all POW or KIA.

[crushedhat]

Banshee
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 10 August 1942
MISSION NBR. 112/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Porto Lago Bay, Fournoi/Aegean Sea, Shipping
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Lead
Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (11) [0] LC
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (10) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (11) [3] LC
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (11) [2 1/6] LC
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (11) [17 2/3] LC * LW(Left Leg) RTD 11 Aug 42
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (11) [0] LC
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez (4) [2 1/3] #
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack (4) [1/2]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa (4) [1 1/3] *
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (11) [13] LC **#

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 3=2 Damaged, 1 to FF
Ju 88 1=1 KIA (1 Ace)
Bf 109 11=4 KIA, 2 Damaged, 3 to FF, 2 Undamaged (2 Ace, 4 Green)
15

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: ½ Bf 109
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa: ½ Ju 88
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: ½ Bf 109

Bomb Run: On Target, Ship Dead in Water & Sinking

B-24 Damage: Top Turret Out (20), Fuel Tank Leak (10), Left Waist Gun Out: Jam (10), LW x1 (2)
Peckham Points: 42 Peckham Points, AC ready 12 Aug 42 (Extra day due to being at RAF Aboukir)

Casualties: Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: LW(Left Leg) RTD 11 Aug 42

Landing: AC and crew safe at RAF Aboukir

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: Purple Heart

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“UH, Skipper,” 2LT Mark Walstonburg sounds nervous as the big B-24 descends upon the RAF fighter base at Aboukir. “That runway looks awful short.”

It’ll hafta do,” Capt Clark Martin states matter of factly. Turning to grin at his Co-Pilot he adds, “Guess we’ll just hafta stop on the brakes hard.”

Takeoff and assembly went off without a hitch, thankfully, and Banshee took up her position at the head of the low squadron. Things were pretty quiet till we got near the target (Zone 5) when the sky started to get lousy with bandits. The Luftwaffe seemed to be having a problem getting their act together and the first wave never made an attack. The second wave consisted of three Bf 109s, one of which fell to the escorting P-40s. Raoul and Pappy (Sgts Dominez and Monson) made short work of one trying to come up low on our six. The third bandit dove past like the proverbial bat out of hell. While he didn’t hit us, he damn near clipped our wing off!

There were even more EA over the target (Zone 6) though Jerry still hadn’t gotten his act together (three waves but the first two ended up being ‘None’), only the third wave making any attempt to impede our progress when a Ju 88 and another 109 attacked from below. Pappy (Sgt Monson) skewered the Messerschmidt while Brez (Sgt Brzechwa) set the twin-engine Junkers on fire. After that we made for the ships, easily threading their Flak. Jim (2LT Hanson) put out eggs on and around a fat freighter, the ship burning and sinking as we flew off.

Turning for home we encountered three more 109s, including two aces. Pappy (Sgt Monson) got one while Sgt Dominez sent the other ace limping for home, though not before Jerry took out the top turret and wounded TSgt Barnes. Jerry also put a leak into the fuel tank, TSgt Barnes quickly determining that we wouldn’t have enough to make it back to Fayid, though we could reach Aboukir. Donny (Sgt Mack) reported his gun jammed.

Just about the time Sgt Mack reported his gun was jammed beyond repair (Zone 5) a trio of Fws and another 109 hit us. An RAF Hurricane drove off one bandit and Sgt Dominez claimed another. The remaining two took a beating, inflicting no damage in return.

About halfway home (Zone 4) the formation tightened up (Random Event). Then (Zone 3) three more 109s bore in. Spitfires chased off two and the third one dove past us to quickly for either side to draw a bead on. As we neared the Egyptian coast (Zone 2) we fell out of formation and turned for RAF Aboukir. Let me tell you that runway looks awful short, but Mark (2LT Walstonburg) and I managed to put Banshee down on it. It’ll take a couple of days to fly in supplies and get her repaired, but we should be back in Fayid by the 12th. TSgt Barnes’ injuries proved to be minor so he’ll be coming back with us.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Banshee
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Banshee
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 14 August 1942
MISSION NBR. 13/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Matruh, Egypt, Tank Farm
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Lead out, Tail Home

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (12) [0] LC
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (11) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (12) [3] LC *#
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (12) [2 1/6] LC #
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (12) [18 2/3] LC ##
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (12) [0] LC
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez (5) [2 5/6] #
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack (5) [1/2]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa (5) [2 1/3] #
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (12) [15 1/2] LC #

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 2=2 to FF
Bf 109 11=4 KIA, 3 Damaged, 3 to FF, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace, 3 Green)
C 202 5=1 KIA, 1 Damaged, 2 to FF, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace, 2 Green)
G 50 1=1 to FF
19

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio: ½ Bf 109
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: Bf 109
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa: 1/3 Bf 109
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: ½ BF 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 20%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x2 (4)
Peckham Points: 4 Peckham Points, AC ready 15 Aug 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez: Air Medal
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack: Air Medal
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa: Air Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“There goes Bunny Hop,” Sgt Pappy Monson reports matter-of-factly over the interphone as Banshee rocks while a nearby Flak burst peppers her wing with shrapnel. “Guess that makes us Tail-End-Charlie.”

“Guess it does,” Capt Clark Martin agrees. With the loss of Sour Apple and now Bunny Hop, Banshee is the rearmost plane in the 78th’s formation. “Better keep your eyes open back there.”

“I sleep with my eyes open,” Pappy relies, still sounding nonplussed.

“It’s true,” Sgt Donny Mack tells his partner in the waist, Sgt Raoul Dominez. “I’ve seen it.” Dominez simply rolls his eyes then turns his attention back out the waist window, leaving Mack no choice but to do the same.

Takeoff and assembly went well and we were soon on our way, safely nestled in the middle of the middle squadron. Of course, that wasn’t going to last. But at least the SNAFU over our being slotted in the 79th had been straightened out.

As briefed, the enemy was on us from the get go, a trio of C 202s hitting us before we’d barely cleared Fayid (Zone 2). The RAF chased off one, Jim (2LT Hanson) flamed another, and the third left with something to remember us by.

Thinking they could do better than their mates another set of 202 gave it a go (Zone 3). Again, Spitfires claimed one while the other dove past us so fast nobody could get a bead on the other.

As we approached the target (Zone 4) the air was thick with bandits. Three waves challenged us on the way in. First up was a trio of 109s and a pair of 190s. The FWs ended up tangling with the RAF. Our encounter with the 109s was Banshee 1, Luftwaffe 0. Next up was a lone G 50 that never had a chance against the Spits. Then a pair of 109s gave it a try. Again, one dove by so fast nobody had time to do anything while the other fled with a Spitfire on his tail. Others weren’t so lucky, Sour Apple taking a hit and exploding. Then the Flak started up. We managed not to get hit and put 20% of payload within the CEP. We weren’t quite as lucky on target egress, suffering a near hit from the Flak. Still, we were luckier than some as Bunny Hop took a flak hit and burst into flame leaving us the rearmost ship in the middle squadron. The crew reported counting nine chutes. Coming out of the Flak we were met by four 109s. The RAF cut that down to two and then we cut it down to zero.

Heading back home over Egypt (Zone 3) we passed through one wave of EA unmolested. Then a pair of 109s bore in. One walked right into Pappy’s (Sgt Monson) gunsight as though he had a death wish, to use Pappy’s words. The other’s fate is uncertain as he left trailing thick smoke.

Almost home (Zone 2) and there were still more bandits, but none took notice of us. Then it was Fayid, Landing, and The Goat. We took a little damage to the right wing from the egress flak but TSgt Raleigh says that’ll be patched up before the sun sets.

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Banshee
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Banshee Lost to enemy action
Pilot: Capt Clark Martin
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 20 August 1942
MISSION NBR. 14/This Bomber 3
TARGET: Ploesti, Romania, Oil Refinery
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin (13) [0] LC BO - POW
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg (12) [0] LC BO - POW
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon (13) [4 1/2] LC * BO – KIA
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio (13) [3] LC BO - POW
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes (13) [19 2/3] LC BO - POW
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper (13) [0] LC BO - POW
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez (6) [3 1/3] BO – KIA
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack (6) [1/2] BO - POW
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa (6) [2 5/6] BO – KIA
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson (13) [16] LC BO – KIA

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 1=1Undamaged (1 Ace)
Bf 109 7=1 KIA, 2 Damaged, 4 Undamaged (3 Ace)
8

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon: Bf 109

Bomb Run: DNB

B-24 Damage: Lost to enemy action
Peckham Points: NA

Casualties:
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon: BO – KIA
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez: BO – KIA
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa: BO – KIA
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: BO – KIA

Landing: Aircraft Lost over Ploesti

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Clark Martin: POW Medal
Co-Pilot: 2LT Mark Walstonburg: POW Medal
Bombardier: 2LT James (Jim) Harmon: Purple Heart, posthumous
Navigator: 2LT Carmel Defenzio: POW Medal
Engineer: TSgt Theodore (Ted) Barnes: POW Medal
Radio Operator: Sgt Steven Harper: POW Medal
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Raoul Dominez: Purple Heart, posthumous
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald (Donny) Mack: POW Medal
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Artur (Brez) Brzechwa: Purple Heart, posthumous
Tail Gunner: Sgt John (Pappy) Monson: Purple Heart, posthumous

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

The boys couldn’t seem to hit a thing and in the end we paid for it. We’d barely begun our target approach when a bandit hit the fuel lines in the bomb bay starting a fire. I put Banshee into a steep dive hoping it might extinguish the flames but they only spread and we had to bail out. Pappy (Sgt Monson) and Brez (Sgt Brzechwa) both popped their chutes too early and they caught fire. I saw another drift too close to the burning refinery, frying the poor soul before he ever reached the ground. I don’t know if that was Jim (2LT Hanson) or Raoul (Sgt Dominez). I never did hear what happened to either one. As for the rest of us, the Krauts quickly rounded us up.

Post war debriefing of

Clark Martin, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Banshee
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

The Red Cross eventually reports the capture of Capt Clark Martin, 2LT Mark Walstonburg, 2LT Carmel Defenzio, TSgt Ted Barnes, Sgt Steven Harper, and Sgt Donald Mack.

Read more: 509th-vbw.proboards.com/thread/1658/mission-014-ploesti-romania?page=1#ixzz6CI9rBBKQ

[crushedhat]

B-24D Maryland Momma

Crew Chief TSgt Robert (Bobbie) Raleigh

Missions Flown: 5 (current through Mission 019)

First Mission: 015 Tobruk, Libya, 30 Aug 42

Last Mission Flown: 019 Suda Bay, Crete, 29 Sep 42, Crashed due to engine malfunction, AC lost

[crushedhat]

Maryland Momma
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 30 August 1942
MISSION NBR. 15/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Tobruk, Libya, Port Facilities
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (1) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (1) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (1) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (1) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (1) [0] ##
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (1) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (1) [0]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (1) [0] ##
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Louis Beaulot (1) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (1) [0] *

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 2=1 KIA, 1 Damaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
C 202 5=2 KIA, 2 to FF, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace, 2 Green)
7

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: 2 C 202
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann: 1 ½ C 202

Bomb Run: On Target, 50%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x5 (10), Autopilot Out (10)
Peckham Points: 20 Peckham Points, AC ready 31 Aug 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Alright, boys,” 1LT Derek Walters addresses the crew of Maryland Momma as they gather under the bomber’s wing. “I know you’re chafing at the less than warm reception we’ve received thus far from the veteran crews.” Heads nod and there are one or two mumbled ‘Jerks.’

“Well, they’re wondering if they can depend on us up there. They’ve all paid their dues and now it’s our turn to show ‘em we’ve got what it takes. So, let’s go do this.” The entire crew joins in a cheer and then disperses to do their last minutes checks, each man feeling less confident than he demonstrated a moment ago.

This was our baptism by fire, and we managed to acquit ourselves. Takeoff and assembly went well. A bit more congested than in training, but otherwise pretty similar and soon we were winging our way across the Med toward Libya.

As was briefed, we ran into the enemy just about the time our own fighter cover had to peel off (Zone 5). Fortunately for us, while we saw bandits, none ventured closed enough to be a problem, or target.

As we began our bomb run (Zone 7) we saw more EA, though they were tied up with other bombers and left us alone. The Flak failed to find us and Ralph (2LT Peter) put 50% of bombs within the CEP. On target egress we managed to avoid both Flak and enemy fighters.

Our luck changed as we neared the Libyan coast (Zone 6) when a pair of Fw 190s bore in. One bandit put a few holes in us but paid for it when he flew into Sgt Rice’s sights and got shot down, though I understand he isn’t being given credit. LTs Peter and Lake sent the other bandit packing.

Further along (Zone 4) and we ran into more EA. This time it was the Regia Aeronautica, with a pair of C 202s targeting us. One bandit got chased of by a pair of Hurricanes from the RAF while Lee (TSgt Brown) and Rammie (Sgt Gundermann) forced the other pilot to hit the silk.

Then things started to heat up (Zone 3). The first wave tangled with other ships in the formation, but then a trio of 202s from the second wave had out number. One bandit fell to a Spitfire, leaving us to tangle with the other two. One, I assume a green pilot by the way he flew, met his fate at the hands of TSgt Brown and Sgt Gundermann. The other bandit, an Ace, knocked pout our autopilot. He came around for two more passes, doing only minor damage but deftly avoiding our return fire.

Then (Zone 2) Randy (Sgt Myers) reported the Ball Turret was on the fritz. Luckily, we’d had our last enemy encounter of the mission even though the problem was quickly fixed.

The landing back at Fayid went just like training. TSgt Raleigh seemed pleased that we didn’t wreck ‘his new bird,’ and said she’d be back in shape by tomorrow. The crew have a bit more confidence now, though there is some confusion over the operations of higher HQ with Sgt Rice denied his kill while TSgt Brown and Sgt Gundermann were credited with more kills than claimed. (OOC – I go with whatever result the roll on the Review Board provides, figuring if the Review Board can take away credit it can also award undeserved credit. I use the actual mission results for determining Ace Bonus modifiers, but the Review Board Credited kills for requesting medals/promotions.)

1LT Derek Walters, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Maryland Momma
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Maryland Momma
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 31 August 1942
MISSION NBR. 16/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Alam-ei-Halfa, Egypt, Troop Concentrations
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Middle, Altitude 8K

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (2) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (2) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (2) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (2) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (2) [1]
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (2) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (2) [0]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (2) [1]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Louis Beaulot (2) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (2) [1]

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Bf 109 6=6 to Friendly Air
C 202 2=1 to Friendly Air, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace)
8

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: None
Peckham Points: 0 Peckham Points, AC ready 1 Sep 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

This, our second combat mission proved to be a milk run safely nestled in the middle of the middle squadron. Takeoff and assembly was right out of the textbook, though it did feel strange to be flying so low.

As we neared the fighting (Zone 2) a pair of C 202s made for us. One got jumped by a Spitfire from the RAF. The other, an ace to judge by the markings on his AC, exchanged ineffective fire with us and moved on.

Approaching the target (Zone 3) things got a bit heavier. The sky was full of bandits but the first wave was tied up elsewhere and left us alone. A pair of Bf 109s from the second wave noticed us but couldn’t get past an aggressive group of P-40s operating in the area. Flak on target ingress was light and presented no problems, Ralph (2LT Peter) putting at least a third of our bombs on the Axis troops below. Hopefully some of the misses fell into the enemy’s rear area, complicating their supply and communications.

The Flak on target egress was heavier, but thankfully no more accurate. There was a trio of 109s waiting for us to come out of the Flak, but our Little Friends in the Warhawks made short work of them.

Heading for home (Zone 2) we encountered a lone Bf 109. It seems that Jerry also caught the attention of a pair of P-39s who, thanks to the lower altitude of this mission, were able to take a pause in strafing enemy positions to bring their 37mm cannons to bear.

After that it was clear flying and a smooth landing back at Fayid. Maryland Momma and crew will both be ready for the next mission.

1LT Derek Walters, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Maryland Momma
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Maryland Momma
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 7 September 1942
MISSION NBR. 17/This Bomber 3
TARGET: Kaastelli, Crete, Airfield
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Hig Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (3) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (3) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (3) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (3) [0] *
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (3) [1] #
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (3) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (3) [0] *#
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (3) [1] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Louis Beaulot (3) [0] # KIA(Head)
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (3) [1] **

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 5=1 KIA, 3 Damaged, 1 Undamaged (3 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 109 5=3 KIA, 2 Damaged (2 Ace, 2 Green)
C 202 3=2 KIA, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace)

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: 1/3 C 202
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers: ½ Me 109
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann: Me 109
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Louis Beaulot: C 202
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice: ½ Fw 190, ½ Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 40%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x =6 (12), KIA x1 (10), Co-Pilot O2 Out (10), Pilot Compartment Heat Out (10), Intercom Out (10), Left Aileron Out (10)
Peckham Points: 62 Peckham Points, AC ready 8 Sep 42.

Casualties:
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Louis Beaulot: KIA(Head)

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Louis Beaulot: Purple Heart, posthumous

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

After this mission we’re no longer innocents. Things started out well enough. Takeoff and assembly went off without a hitch, our first problem being a pocket of extra cold air about halfway to the target (Zone 4). While the boys reported their guns icing up, they all remained operational. A good thing as we were going to need all the firepower we could muster.

All Hell broke loose once we hit Crete (Zone 6), three waves of EA contesting our approach. First in the barrel was a trio of C 202s. The Italians didn’t fare so well, losing two of their number. Next up was a pair of Me 109s who did even worse than the Italians, both bandits falling to our fire. This was followed up by three more 109s. While we only flamed one of them, the Luftwaffe scored no hit on us. Their Flak was any more effective and Ralph (2LT Peter) dropped 40% of our bombs squarely on the airfield. So far, so good.

Things changed as we began our target egress. Though lighter in intensity, the Flak proved more accurate, knocking out Jack’s (2LT Hope) oxygen. Then five FWs bore in. While we ultimately shot down three of the bandits, we paid a price; lost cabin heat and the intercom, though the biggest hit was the death of Louis (Sgt Beaulot).

Without cabin heat and the co-pilot’s oxygen out, I had to drop out of formation (Zone 5). Fortunately we saw no more EA and landed safely back at Fayid despite the lousy weather over the airfield.

TSgt Raleigh say he’ll have Maryland Momma back in flying condition by tomorrow. It’s going to take a bit longer to get over the loss of Sgt Beaulot.

1LT Derek Walters, Capt, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Maryland Momma
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Maryland Momma
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 13/14 September 1942
MISSION NBR. 18/This Bomber 4
TARGET: Bengazi, Libya, Port
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Bomber Stream, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (4) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (4) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (4) [0] #
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (4) [1]
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (4) [1 1/2] #
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (4) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (4) [1 1/2]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (4) [1 1/2]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche (1) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (4) [3]

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 110 1=1 KIA (1 Green)
Me 109 1=1 to Friendly Fighters
Total 2

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter: 1/3 Me 110
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: Me 110

Bomb Run: Off Target due to faulty Bomb Release, 10%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x1 (2), Left Rudder x1 (25), Bomb Release: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 37 Peckham Points, AC ready 15 Sep 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“All that practice on station keeping and here we are, all by ourselves. It’s a bit unnerving actually,” grouses 2LT Jack Hope.

“Personally, I wouldn’t mind if it stayed that way the whole mission,” 1LT Derek Walters replies. “What’s the manifold pressure on #3?” he asks in an attempt to keep his co-pilot focused. Touching hhis throat mike, Walters says, “Alright everybody, stay alert. Jerry’ll be counting on our falling asleep to sneak in and slit our throats.”

“Stay alert?” Sgt Rammie Gundermann grumbles at the left waist gun. “As if there’s anything to see.”

“It always this quiet?” the new right waist gunner, Sgt John Rauche asks.

Gundermann simply shakes his head in amazement at the newbie’s ignorance and turns back to the open window on his side of the aircraft.

This was our first experience flying a night mission and the biggest enemy seemed to be the gremlins; our bomb release failing to function properly. When it happened, I don’t know, but obviously we discovered it when we tried to drop. (Mechanical Failure rolled in Zone 4 but not discovered until trying to drop the bombs in Zone 9.)

While we could see the searchlights crisscrossing the sky as we approached the target (Zone 9), none managed to find us. Still, for ‘light Flak’ there was enough bursting in the sky that some managed to find us anyway. Fortunately it didn’t do too much damage. When 2LT Peter learned the Bomb Release wasn’t working her took immediate action and managed to achieve ‘Bomb’s Away.’ But by then we were pretty much past the target. Estimates are that no more than 10% hit the airfield. What was beyond it, I don’t know.

The trip home was quiet until just after sun up (Zone 3) when two bandits made for us. Some nearby P-40s chased off an me 109, leaving us to face a twin-engine Me 110. The German pilot must’ve been green as he flew right into the interlocking fire of 2LT Peter and Tsgt Brown, losing a wing and plummeting to the ground below.

Landing at Fayid was without incident. TSgt Raleigh says that his boys will have Maryland Momma back in flying condition by tomorrow. But, as this was a night mission, taking off on the 13th and retuning on the 14th, that won’t be until the 15th.

1LT Derek Walters, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Maryland Momma
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Maryland Momma Crash landing due to engine malfunction, AC lost
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 29 September 1942
MISSION NBR. 19/This Bomber 5
TARGET: Suda Bay, Crete, Port
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle, Lead Zone 5 Home

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (5) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (5) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (5) [1/2] #
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (5) [1] #
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (5) [2] ###
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (5) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (5) [1 1/2] *##
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (5) [1 1/2] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche (2) [0] # KIA (Parachute Malfunction)
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (5) [3] *

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 3=1 Damaged, 2 Undamaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 109 2=2 KIA (1 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 3=1 KIA, 1 Damaged, 1 to Friendly Fighters (1 Green)
C 202 5=3 KIA, 2 to Friendly Fighters (2 Green)
G 50 1=1 Damaged (1 Green)
Total 14

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake: C 202
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: 1/3 Me 109, 1 ½ C 202
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers: ½ Me 109, C 202
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche: ½ Me 109
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice: ½ Me 110

Bomb Run: On Target, 60%

B-24 Damage: Destroyed upon crashing
Peckham Points: Total Loss

Casualties:
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche: KIA (Parachute Malfunction)

Landing: Crew BO over Fayid, AC crashed due to engine malfunction

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters : Air Medal
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope: Air Medal
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter: Air Medal
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake: Air Medal
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: Air Medal
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski: Air Medal
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers: Air Medal
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann: Air Medal
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche: Purple Heart, posthumous
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice: Air Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Holy – -“ The crew of Maryland Momma tumble about as 1LT Derek Walters yanks the yoke hard back and the right in a desperate move to avoid hitting another bomber that just materialized out of the clouds as they were climbing to the assembly point.

Later in the mission:

“There goes Desert Fury!” 2LT Jack Hope points the lead bomber of the 78th as she falls out of position.

“Guess that means we’re it,” 1LT Derek Walters responds as he throttles the bomber’s four engines to move into the lead slot.

And still later in the mission:

“Jesus! #3s on fire!” 1LT Jack Hope points out the window at the flames licking out from beneath the cowling. Leaning over him, TSgt Lee Brown punches the button for the fire extinguisher.

“It had to be #3,” 1LT Derek Walters mutters under his breath. Addressing Hope and Brown he says, “If the weather over Fayid hasn’t improved by the time we get home there’s no way this baby’s gonna land. Looks like the Gremlin Airforce has accomplished what the Germans and Italians couldn’t.”

Things started off poorly, the lousy weather over Fayid almost leading to collision in the clouds during assembly (Rolled a 2 on Takeoff but since all the other bombers in the squadron are PCs figured it was a near miss rather than a collision.) After that, things settled down, for now, as we headed out over the Med.

About halfway to the target (Zone 4) we saw some EA in the distance, but no one approached us.

Nearer the target (Zone 6) the enemy wasn’t as reticent, a lone G 50 bearing in on us. While the Italian missed, we sent him off trailing smoke.

Then it was on to Crete (Zone 7) where a warmer reception awaited us. First out of the chute was a trio of FWs. While they didn’t do any damage, we didn’t exactly earn any bragging rights either. This was followed by a pair of 109s. They faired even worse than their brothers, scoring no hits on us while both going down in flames. The Flak, though of moderate intensity was inaccurate and after Ralph (2LT Peter) called ‘Bombs Away!” Sgts Myers and Rice both said it looked like about 60% fell within the port facilities. They saw at least one derrick fall and a large mushroom erupt from a warehouse. Flak on target egress was less intense but no more accurate. AS we emerged form the Flak field the formation tightened up (Randon Event: Tight Formation) which seemed to discourage any EA from bothering us.

As we headed back out over the Aegean (Zone 6) a lone Me 110 attacked. Jerry missed, we didn’t and he went into the drink. That’s when we saw Desert Fury drop out of formation.

We moved up to the Lead slot as the blue waters of the Med appeared below (Zone 5). I don’t know if was moving into Lead that did it, but suddenly we were the focus of enemy attention with EA everywhere. The first wave was a 110 climbing up form below. He started his attack as a twin-engine fighter and left with only one. Apparently that was enough to discourage the next wave who never pressed their attack home. Then the Italians gave it a try with a trio of C 202s. One fell victim to some nearby P-40s while the other two met their fate at the hands of our gunners, both bandits flying into a crossfire.

Moving on (Zone 4) we suffered what was to ultimately be our death blow; delivered not by the two waves of EA tha hit us, but by the Gremlins that knocked out our #3 engine. The escorting P-40s chased off a lone Me 100. They then did the same to one of the two C 202s that made up the second wave. The other Italian’s plane literally flew apart under the combined fire of the top and ball turrets and the left waist gun all converging on him. Of course, with the #3 engine out, Maryland Momma’s fate was sealed unless the weather had improved over Fayid in our absence.

Closer to home (Zone 3) and there were EA in the distance, but none close enough to bother us.

Reaching Fayid (Zone 1) we were met with the same rainy overcast we’d left in. Between the lousy weather and runway conditions and the problems presented by the loss of the #3 engine I decided not to bother with trying to land, ordering the crew to bail out. After turning Marlyland Momma back out to sea and setting the autopilot I followed suit. Upon landing I learned that Sgt Rauche’s chute failed to open. We’ll need a new plane and a new right waist gunner.

1LT Derek Walters, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Maryland Momma
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B-24D Roll n Tuck

Crew Chief TSgt Robert (Bobbie) Raleigh

Missions Flown: 29 (current through Mission 050)

First Mission: 020 Convoy at Sea 11 Oct 42

Last Mission Flown: 050, Antheor, France, 31 Oct 43

Other AC used:
Shady Lady mission 021, Corinth Canal, 15 Oct 42

No credit Abort:
Mission 047, Salerno, Italy, 10 Sep 43

[crushedhat]

Roll n Tuck
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 11 October 1942
MISSION NBR. 20/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Convoy at Sea
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle, 5000 Ft

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (6) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (6) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (6) [1]
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (6) [1 1/2]
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (6) [3 1/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (6) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (6) [3 1/3] SW(Rt Leg) RTD 16 Oct 42
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (6) [1 5/6]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche (1) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (6) [4] **

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 1=1 to Friendly Fighters
Me 109 9=2 KIA, 2 Damaged, 5 Undamaged (7 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 2=1 Damaged, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
12

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice: ½ Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, Superficial Damage

B-24 Damage: Superficial x4 (8), Nose Wheel (25+108), Lt Aileron Inop (10), SW x1 (5), Nose Gun Inop: Mechanical Failure (10), Rt IB Fuel Tank; Self Seal (5), #2 Engine Out: Mechanical Failure (25
Peckham Points: ), = 191 Peckham Points, AC ready 16 Oct 42 (3 days +1 for Landing Mods +1 for Engine Out)

Casualties:
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers: SW(Rt Leg) RTD 16 Oct 42

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers: Purple Heart

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“They gotta stop rushing these babies off the assembly line,” 2LT Jack Hope grouses as his new B-24 suffers its third system failure on her maiden combat flight.

“Yeah,” chimes in Tsgt Brown as he ducks down from his position in the top turret. “I don’t know which is worse; that, or the fact that the Luftwaffe seems to have nothing but aces flying today.”

“I’ll tell you what’s worse,” 2LT Ralph Peter’s voice sounds over the interphone from his temporary assignment in the ball turret. “Tryin’ ta fit into this fishbowl!”

“I think Randy’s gonna make it,” Sgt Rammie Gundermann’s optimistic voice joins in on the conversation.

“Alright,” interrupts 1LT Derek Walters. “We aren’t home yet so cut the chit chat and keep your eyes peeled.”

No sooner has the Pilot spoken than Brown, back in his turret shouts, “Bandit! 12 High! Another Ace!”

We took off in our new ship with high hopes that were soon to be dashed. I’ll be having a ‘come to Jesus’ talk with TSgt Raleigh about the number of mechanical failures we experienced.

Things were quiet till we switched over to the attack formation (Zone 8) when it seemed that everything that could go wrong did. First, Lee (TSgt Brown) reported a problem with the power traverse on the top turret. He had no time to fix it a s pair of Me 109s and an Me 110 bore in on us. While we flamed one of the 109s, the other, an ace, walked his fire along us. Randy (Sgt Myers got hit pretty bad and, what we wouldn’t find pout till later, Jerry also damaged the nose wheel strut.

The sky over the convoy (Zone 9) was lousy with bandits but the first wave never made it to us. Another pair of 109s and a 110 form the second wave did, all aces! Surprisingly the only damage done by either side was that Ralph (2LT Peter) jammed his gun with an overly long burst. After that the Flak missed us and, while Ralph managed to straddle one of the ships, none of the bombs fell close enough to have any noticeable effect. As we pulled a way, Roll n Tuck shook as shrapnel from a nearby Flak burst punctured the right wing. Fortunately the fuel tank self-seal system worked. The sky was still dark with EA but they all seemed interested in somebody else (3 Waves – None/Random Event/None). Charlie (Sgt Rice) reported an unidentified B-17 tacking onto our formation. Meanwhile, with nothing else to occupy his time, Lee (TSgt Brown) managed to bring the top turret power back on line, though Ralph (2LT Peter) reported the nose gun was jammed beyond his ability to fix, so I had him move back to take over the ball turret.

Heading back home (Zone 8) we encountered a lone 109, an ace. While we hit him, it wasn’t hard. And Charlie (Sgt Rice) reported his gun jammed, though only one barrel. Luckily as he needed the other a short while later (Zone 7) when three more 109s, including two aces, hit us. With his single gun, Charlie scored the only kill in that engagement.

Further on (Zone 6) we saw two waves forming up but neither pressed the attack home and Sgt Rice was able to bring both barrels back on line. Then (Zone 5) the #2 engine just up and quit as a pair of bandits swooped in. One fell to the newly arrived P-40s and the other, yet another ace, flew off with minor damage. While we saw some more EA (Zone 4) it was thankfully from a distance.

The next problem didn’t occur until landing when our damaged front wheel collapsed on us. Luckily, Roll n Tuck slid along the runway without flipping over and we all managed to walk away, except for Randy (Sgt Myer) who was carted off in a meat wagon. Doc tells me he’ll be back on flight duty in about a week. About the same time TSgt Raleigh tells me it’ll take to fix Roll n Tuck.

1LT Derek Walters, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Roll n Tuck
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Shady Lady ILO Roll n Tuck
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 5 October 1942
MISSION NBR. 21/This Bomber 1 w/this crew
TARGET: Corinth Canal, Greece
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (7) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (7) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (7) [1]
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (7) [1 1/2] *#
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (7) [3 1/3] *#
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (7) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Jim Lane (temp) (11) [2 ½] *##
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (7) [1 5/6] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche (2) [0] *#
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (7) [6]

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 11=5 KIA, 3 Damaged, 2 to Escort, 1 Undamaged (3 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 2=2 KIA
13

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake: 1/3 Me 109
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: 1/3 Me 109
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Jim Lane (temp): Me 109
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann: Me 109
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche: Me 109

Bomb Run: Off Target, 9%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x4 (2), Tail turret Power: Mechanical Failure (20), Navigator Heat Out (10), Lt Inboard Fuel Tank: Self Seal (5)
Peckham Points: 37 Peckham Points, AC ready 16 Oct 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (6) [3 1/3] RTD 16 Oct 42

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Not again!” Sgt Chafrlie Rice’s voice complains over the interphone.

“Not again, what?” 1iLt Derek Walters is hesitant to ask, but does so anyway.

“More Gremlins,” Rice explains. The power just went out in the tail turret. I’ll see if I can fix it, but if past is prologue I’m not holding out any hope.” As it turns out, Sgt Rice is correct, the tail turret remaining on manual operation for the duration of the mission.

We were flying a borrowed AC this mission, Shady Lady, and hoped she’d prove more reliable than our new AC had. As it turned out, she was only marginally so. Still, she got us there and back again, so I guess we can’t complain too much.

Our first encounter with the enemy was well over the Med (Zone 4) when the Gremlin Air Force struck the power in the tail turret. Though he tried, Sgt Rice wasn’t able to bring it back on line, hampering his effectiveness for the duration of the mission.

Our first contact with a real enemy wasn’t until we were almost upon the target (Zone 8) when we saw some EA forming up in the distance, though none bothered us.

It was a different story over the target (Zone 9) when we encountered multiple waves of EA. The first wave focused it’s attention elsewhere, but three 109s and a 110 form the second wave made for us. We flamed one of the 109s and damaged another in exchange for no hits form them. While we hit the 110, it bit back, knocking out Roger’s (2LT Lake) heat among other things. Jerry got greedy and came around for another pass. This time Roger paid him back in spades, the rear gunner hitting the silk but the pilot going down with his AC. Then it was through the Flak which was of moderate intensity but thankfully inaccurate. Unfortunately, so were we, most of our bombs missing the canal. Flak wasn’t a problem on the way out, and we made short work of the two Me 109s that were there to greet us. After that, the second wave gave us a wide berth. It was like Lady Luck suddenly smiled upon us.

Heading back over the Aegean (Zone 8) we saw some EA in the distance and I had 2LT Lake move into the radio room to keep warm. Things quieted down till we were ready to leave the Aegean (Zone 6) when another trio of 109s and a 110 attacked. Jerry lost two fighters with another one trailing smoke.

We saw some fighters in the distance (Zone 4) and I thought maybe the battle was over. But closer to home (Zone 2) three more 109s attacked. By now we’d picked up our escort which drove off two of the bandits and we made short work of the third.

The landing went off OK and, with no causalities, we’re looking forward to getting our own plane as well as Randy (Sgt Myers) back tomorrow. I have to commend Sgt Lane for a job well done in the ball turret. While he only got credit for one 109, he shot down another.

1LT Derek Walters, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Shady Lady ILO Roll n Tuck
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Roll n Tuck LLS
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 23 October 1942
MISSION NBR. 22/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Tobruk, Libya, Port
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Tail

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (8) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (8) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (8) [1]
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (8) [3]
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (8) [4 5/6] *#
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (8) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (7) [3 1/3]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (8) [2 1/3] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche (3) [1 1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (8) [6]

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 3=1 KIA, 1 Damaged, 1 to Escort
C 202 7=1KIA, 1 to Escrot, 1 Undamaged (1 Green)
10

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: ½ Fw 190, 1/3 C 202

Bomb Run: DNB

B-24 Damage: Superficial x2 (4), #1 Engine Fire (20+35+25), Heat Suit System: Mechanical Failure (10), Aileron Controls (10)

Peckham Points: 104 Peckham Points, AC ready 25 Oct 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

1LT Derek Walters practically flies out of his aircraft once the bomber pulls back into her hardstand. Throwing his hat down on the tarmac her shouts, “Damnit, Sergeant, this is the second time she’s failed us! Unless you’re gonna tell me there’s a permanent crew of gremlins onboard you and your boys aren’t doing your job! You’re gonna go over every inch of this plane. And I’m gonna be right her to make sure you do!”

TSgt Bobbie Raleigh stops chewing on his cigar. While he’s tempted to give back as good as he gets, Raleigh knows better than to argue with an officer who’s got his dander up and his pride hurt. “Yes Sir,” is all he says. Turing to his maintenance crew he hollers, “All right! You heard the Lootent!”

This is the second mission of two with our new bomber where the Gremlins did more damage than the enemy. I don’t know if it’s poor maintenance or, as the crew’s beginning to suspect, she’s just unlucky. I plan to monitor the ground crew to make sure it isn’t the former, but God help us if it’s the latter.

We’d barely gotten started when, crossing the Egyptian coast (Zone 2) the heating system for all the suits failed. Given we’d barely started and still had a ways to go I saw no sense in rendering half the crew inoperative due to frostbite so aborted. As we fell out of formation the enemy swarmed us. First in we a trio of C 202s. Thankfully, we were still under full escort and the P-40s chased off two of the bandits. Lee (TSgt Brown) and Rammie (Sgt Gundermann) made short work of the other. Then it was three FWs. One fell to the escort and we hit the other two, though not hard enough to keep one from knocking out our #1 engine and the aileron controls. When Jerry came back for a second pass Lee (TSgt Brown) put an end to his flying career. A third wave was forming up but decided better of it after seeing what happened to the brothers.

Since we were now over the Med I jettisoned the bombs as per Squadron SOP and turned for home when four more 202s bore in. Three of them got tangled up with the P-40s. We exchanged ineffectual fire with the fourth. Then it was back to the barn and, between the foul weather and the aileron controls being out, a tricky landing. But it went well.

Roll n Tuck should be patched up in a couple of days. And she’d darn well better be rid of her gremlins by then as well.

1LT Derek Walters, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Roll n Tuck
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Roll n Tuck LLS
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 28 October 1942
MISSION NBR. 23/This Bomber 3
TARGET: Pylos Bay, Greece, Port
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle – Tail Zone 5 Home

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (9) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (9) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (9) [1] *#
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (9) [3] #
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (9) [6 1/3] **##
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (9) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (8) [3 1/3]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (9) [2 5/6]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche (4) [1 1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (9) [6] *

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 10=6 KIA, 3 Damaged, 1 1 Undamaged (2 Ace, 3 Green)
10

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter: Me 109
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x1 (2), Nose Wheel Damaged (25+75+33), Bomb Release Mechanism: Mechanical Failure) (10)
Peckham Points: 145 Peckham Points, AC ready 31 Oct 42 (2 days +1 day for -2 mod from nose wheel)

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

1LT Derek Walters puts Roll n Tuck’s nose down as the big bomber settles onto the wet tarmac. A moment later there’s a shout from up front and the bomber cants at a strange angle. Sparks fly and a deafening scream of tortured metal drowns out all other sound.

“Nose wheel must’ve gotten damaged when that 109 hit us,” 2LT Jack Hope mouths he and Walters fight to keep the bomber on the tarmac.

“Hell of a way to find out!” Walters thinks.

Takeoff and assembly went well despite the steady rain over Fayid and we were soon winging our way toward Pylos Bay safely nestled in the middle of the Squadron. Little did we know that neither condition would last.

We were well on our way (Zone 6) before we caught our first glimpse of the Luftwaffe. But, the sight of the formation was enough to discourage any attack. A little further on (Zone 7) and Jerry showed more fight, an ace in an Me 109 making straight for us. He took a few hits and moved on. Next another 109 bore in. this is the one that ended up damaging our nose wheel, though we wouldn’t find out till we tried to land on it. He got greedy and came in for a second pass, flying right into TSgt Brown’s gunsights.

Things quieted down till we were over the target (Zone 9) when the enemy formed up, but didn’t press the attack. The Flak was of moderate intensity but not particularly accurate. Ralph (2LT Peter) put about 30% of our payload squarely on a pier with warehouses. There were a lot more fighters in the air (3 waves) as we came off the target though only one group pressed home the attack; a trio of 109s making for us. This just didn’t seem to be Jerry’s day, none of the EA hitting, but two pilot hitting the silk and another fighter disintegrating under the combined fire of several of our guns.

It was then (Zone 8) that 2LT Peter noticed a malfunction indicator on the bomb release. Guess we got one over on the gremlins this time.

Further over the Med (Zone 7) three more 109s came at us. They faired no better than the earlier trio, again losing two of their number and the third limping form home trailing thick smoke. It was then (Zone 6) that we noticed Swiss Miss get hit and fall out of formation.

Shortly thereafter (Zone 5) we found ourselves leading the Squadron. Two waves of EA formed up, but only the second one hit us with a lone 109. One less flyer for the Fuhrer.

Moving on (Zone 4) and we had a repeat of our last experience. Though this time it was an ace and that made the difference; he’ll fight again.

After that it was smooth sailing until the shock of discovering our damaged nose wheel the hard way. Still, with 2LT Hope’s capable assistance we managed to keep Roll n Truck on the straight and narrow. TSgt Raleigh was none too pleased, but says he’ll have her back up and running in a few days.

1LT Derek Walters, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Roll n Tuck
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Roll n Tuck LLS
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 3 November 1942
MISSION NBR. 24/This Bomber 4
TARGET: Fuka, Egypt, Supply Depot
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (10) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (10) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (10) [2 1/2]
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (10) [3 1/2]
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (10) [9 1/3] #
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (10) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (9) [3 1/3] #
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (10) [2 5/6]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche (5) [1 1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (10) [7]

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 1=1 Damaged
Me 109 1=1 KIA (1 Ace)
2

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: Me 109
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers: Me 109

Bomb Run: On target, 30%

B-24 Damage: None
Peckham Points: 0 Peckham Points, AC ready 4 Nov 42

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Fayid

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf for missions, DFC for achieving Ace w/5+ Confirmed KIA
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche: Air Medal
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“That’s our tenth mission. Another Air Medal,” Sgt Mike Polowski enthuses as the crew of Roll n Tuck deplanes.

“An’ what’re ya gonna do with it?” Sgt Rammie Gundermann teases. “What matters is twenty-five mission, not how many baubles ya collect.”

“Maybe so,” 1LT Derek Walters seeks to ease Polowski’s disappointment, just thankful that they all got back home from another, albeit flukey mission. Turning to Roll n Tuck’s Engineer, Walters says, “And you’ll end up with a DFC, Lee. If all the other skippers are putting their men in when they achieve Ace, then you deserve one with eight confirmed kills.” The rest of the crew gather round Brown, slapping him on the back and voicing their approval.

“I’d rather get another stripe and the pay raise. Like Rammie said…” The rest of Brown’s comment is drowned out by the congratulatory hubbub.

This mission ended up being a milk run for Roll n Tuck. For a change the fates were with us and we barely saw any enemy action; Two bandits and an Fw 200 recon plane.

Despite the misty skies and damp runway takeoff an assembly went well with Roll n Tuck taking up a position in the High Squadron.

Heading pout over the Med (Zone 2) we encountered the first of our two bandits, a lone Fw 190. While Jerry failed to score any hits, he left the worse for wear.

Things were quiet till we reached the target (Zone 4) when it got kinda strange. First we noticed a Fw 200 shadowing us. Then, despite the presence of the recon AC the Krauts seemed to be having problems getting their act together (Bad Luftwaffe Communications), not that I’m complaining. In any event, while they swirled around us, none made any attempt to do us harm. (3 Waves: 2 Random Events & a None!). The Flak was off the mark as well. The same can’t be said for Ralph (2LT Peter) who put a respectable 30% of our bombs squarely on the supply depot. Flak on target egress was lighter and inaccurate as well, and there were no bandits to meet us despite the efforts of the Fw 200 (1 Wave, rolled None).

Flying over the Front Lines (Zone 3) we encountered a single Me 109, this one flown by an ace; though it didn’t do him much good as the Bandit fell to the combined fire of TSG Brown and Sgt Myers. This being Lee (TSgt Brown’s eighth confirmed kill I’m putting him in for a DFC.

After that it was home to Fayid and a smooth landing despite the weather and runway conditions. Needless to say, TSgt Raleigh was happy to see the absence of holes in Roll n Tuck, while I was happy to see the absence of holes in the crew.

1LT Derek Walters, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Roll n Tuck
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

Roll n Tuck LLS
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters
Squadron: 78th (H) Composite Bomber Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 8 November 1942
MISSION NBR. 25/This Bomber 5
TARGET: Sfax, Tunisia, Airfield
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (11) [0] LC LW(Lt Leg) RTD 12 Nov 42
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (11) [0] LC LW(Rt Hand) RTD 12 Nov 42
Bombardier: 2LT Ralph Peter (11) [2 1/2] LC
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake (11) [3 1/2] LC #
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown (11) [9 5/6] LC **##
Radio Operator: Sgt Mike Polowski (11) [0] LC
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers (10) [3 5/6] LC ##
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann (11) [2 5/6] LC ##
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Rauche (6) [1 1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice (11) [7] LC *##

* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 1=1 to Friendly Fighters
Me 109 6=1 KIA, 2 Damaged, 2 to Friendly Fighters, 1 Undamaged (2 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 2=1 KIA, 1 to Friendly Fighters (1 Ace)
Re 2001 4=2 KIA, 1 Damaged, 1 to Friendly Fighters (2 Ace)
Re 2000 4=1 KIA, 3 to Friendly Fighters
C 202 3=2 KIA, 1 to Friendly Fighters (1 Green)
G 50 1=1 To Friendly Fighters
21

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Roger Lake: Re 2000
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: Re 2001, ½ Me 100, ½ Re 2000
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers: Re 2001, C 202
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Avram (Rammie) Gundermann: Me 110, Re 2000
Tail Gunner: Sgt Charles (Charlie) Rice: ½ Re 2001, ½ C 202

Bomb Run: On target, 30%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x 7 (14), LW x2 (4), Navigation Equipment Destroyed (10), Instruments: Flaps: Mechanical Failure (10), Bomb Bay NE (5)
Peckham Points: 43 Peckham Points, AC ready 9 Nov 42.

Casualties:
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters (11) [0] LC LW(Lt Leg) RTD 12 Nov 42
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope (11) [0] LC LW(Rt Hand) RTD 12 Nov 42

Landing: AC and crew safe at Malta

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Derek Walters: Purple Heart
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) Hope: Purple Heart
Engineer: TSgt Leland (Lee) Brown: DFC for becoming Double Ace
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Randolf (Randy) Myers: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf, DFC for becoming Ace

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“Jack! You OK?” 1LT Derek Walters asks his Co-Pilot after a passing bandit fills the cockpit with MG rounds. Hope is covered in a bright red liquid.

“Hurt, but not too badly,” 2LT Jack Hope replies. “But how’re you even conscious?”

It’s then that Walters notices he’s covered with the same substance. While his leg hurts, it is enough to justify all the blood covering both men. It’s then that Hope reaches down and picks up an object from the flight deck. Holding up a punctured thermos of tomato soup, both men laugh nervously before returning their attention to the battle raging around them. (Fortunately both had just earned their Lucky Charms as they needed them to convert a SW and KIA to LWs.)

Takeoff an assembly went well, though that wasn’t going to last for long. We’d barely started out when the Flap Controls went out on us. I sure hoped it wasn’t a harbinger of things to come. Thankfully we had no further mechanical problems during the long flight over the Med.

As we drew nearer Tunisia (Zone 14) we ran into the enemy. Resistance seemed heaier than briefed with two waves attacking. By now we’d linked up with the Hurricanes from Malt and the RAF chased off the first pair of Re 2000s. They also got one of the second wave, leaving us to deal with a lone 2000. We removed one pilot from Il Duce’s forces.

Beginning the bomb run (Zone 15) the Hurricanes chased off the first wave of bandits, a lone Fw 190, as well as one of a trio of C 202s form the second wave. We made short work of the other two bandits. Flak on target ingress as more accurate than usual; Roger (2LT Lake) will have to requisition a new set of instruments. WE had a slight break in the cloud cover and Ralph (2LT Peter) but 30% of bombs on the airfield.

Flak on target egress was light and inaccurate. Coming out of the Flak we were met by four Me 109s. the Brits shot down one and we sent another two limping for home. While we did take some damage in the exchange, it was minor.

Heading for Malta (Zone 14) we ran into three more waves of EA. First was a lone G 50 that got tangled up with a Hurricane. The Me 110 that comprised the second wave fared no better. Then it was four Re 2001s. The RAF claimed one and we flamed tow more. The one that got through ruined my thermos full of tomato soup. Thankfully it had gotten cold by then as it ended up all over Jack (2LT Hope) and me. While we both got injured, it looked a lot worse than it was.

Approaching Malta (Zone 13) we had to fight our way through more bandits before we could land. The first wave of EA formed up but then attacked elsewhere. A pair of 109s and a 110 from the second wave made for us. Again the Hurricanes discouraged one – I’m going to buy those RAF pilots a round. Despite markings identifying the other two bandits as aces, they both fell to our guns.

The landing went well in spite of the lousy weather and malfunctioning flaps. Roll n Tuck should be ready to fly again tomorrow. 2LT Hope and I will take a little longer, the doctors tell me we won’t be back on Flight Status until the 12th. Hopefully that’ll be in time for the next mission as I don’t want someone else taking my boys up.

1LT Derek Walters, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24D, Roll n Tuck
78th (H) Composite Bomb Squadron