crushedhat

[crushedhat]

Winged Fury
Pilot: 1LT Saul Villanova
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 10 September 1944
MISSION NBR. 84/This Bomber 5
TARGET: Stuttgart, Germany - Marshalling Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Saul Villanova (6) [0] BO: POW
Co-Pilot: 2LT Steven Martin (6) [0] BO: POW
Bombardier:2LT Karl Poole (6) [0] BO: KIA
Navigator: 2LT Connor Schmitt (6) [4] KIA
Engineer: TSgt Allen Brown (6) [3 5/6] ** BO: POW
Radio Operator: Sgt Oliver (Ollie) Rorke (6) [0] BO: POW
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Michael Falcon (6) [6 1/3] * BO: POW
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Edward (Eddie) Washburn (6) [1 1/2] BO: POW
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Henry Dunbar (6) [2/3] BO: POW
Tail Gunner: Sgt Peter Richards (6) [0] LW; BO: POW
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Enemy Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 2=1 to P-51m 1 Undamaged (1 Ace)
Me 109 7=2 KIA, 1 Damaged, 3 to P-51, 1 Undamaged (2 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 2=1 KIA, 1 to P-51 (1 Ace)
11

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Allen Brown: Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: AC Lost on Target Egress
Peckham Points: ALL OF THEM

Casualties:
Pilot: 1LT Saul Villanova: POW
Co-Pilot: 2LT Steven Martin: POW
Bombardier:2LT Karl Poole: KIA
Navigator: 2LT Connor Schmitt: KIA
Engineer: TSgt Allen Brown: POW
Radio Operator: Sgt Oliver (Ollie) Rorke: POW
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Michael Falcon: POW
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Edward (Eddie) Washburn: POW
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Henry Dunbar: POW
Tail Gunner: Sgt Peter Richards: LW; POW

Landing: AC lost over target

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Saul Villanova: POW Medal
Co-Pilot: 2LT Steven Martin: POW Medal
Bombardier:2LT Karl Poole: Purple Heart, posthumous
Navigator: 2LT Connor Schmitt: Heart, posthumous
Engineer: TSgt Allen Brown: POW Medal
Radio Operator: Sgt Oliver (Ollie) Rorke: POW Medal
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Michael Falcon: POW Medal
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Edward (Eddie) Washburn: POW Medal
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Henry Dunbar: POW Medal
Tail Gunner: Sgt Peter Richards: Purple Heart, POW Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

Coming off the target Winged Fury suffers a Flak hit shearing off the left wing. As the bomber spirals to earth, nine men parachute out. However, one chute opens prematurely and gets caught on the stricken bomber, hauling its unfortunate occupant to his death. Subsequent repots indicate the unfortunate man was 2LT Karl Poole, the bombardier. In addition, 2LT Connor Schmitt died onboard the aircraft while Sgt Peter Richards was injured by enemy fire earlier in the mission. Richards, as well as the rest of the crew is reported by the Red Cross to be a POW.

(OOC – I found it odd that a result of DR2 on TFT Table 5-15 B-7 (Wing rips Off) instructs me to roll on Table 7-3 Controlled Bailout rather than 7-4 Bailout From Uncontrolled Plane.)

[crushedhat]

B24J: My Girl
Pilot: 1LT Michael (Mitch) Haldon
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 9 October 1944
MISSION NBR. 86/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Schweinfurt, Germany - Ball Bearing Plant & Cycle and Clutch Works
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (1) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (1) [0]
Bombardier:2LT John Zhichisecki (1) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton (1) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood (1) [0] *#
Radio Operator: Sgt Bruce Allcot (1) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne (1) [0] ##
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz (1) [0] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Lee Swanson (1) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet (1) [0] #
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighter Encountered:
Fw 190 8=1KIA, 1 Damaged, 5 to P-51, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 109 11=2 KIA, 1 Damaged, 6 to P-51, 2 Undamaged (2 Ace, 2 Green)
19

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood: Fw 190, Me 109
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne: Fw 190
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz: 1/3 Fw 190

Bomb Run: DNB

B-24 Damage: Superficial x4 (8), Nose Turret Inop (20), Pilot/Co-Pilot O2 Out (10), Intercom Out (10), Rt rudder x1 (25), Lt Engine Fire Extinguishers Out (10)
Peckham Points: 83 Peckham Points, AC ready 10 Oct 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC & crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“I didn’t sign up to drop paper on the Krauts,” Sgt Lee Swanson complains as the crew of My Girl head out to their bomber. While he doesn’t say anything, Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz nods his head in agreement.

“What’re you complaining about?” 2LT John Zhichisecki chimes in. “I spent months learning how to be a bombardier, and now I’m just supposed to toggle a switch when I see a flare. A monkey could do my job.” Both Swanson and Guiteraz refrain from voicing their opinion on that topic.

“Can it!” 1LT Mitch Haldon commands. As AC, he feels an obligation to set the example, regardless of his own feeling on the subject. “We’ve got a mission to do, and people with more experience than us have decided this is the best way to do it.” Further discussion is cut short by arrival at the plane and each man setting about getting ready for his first combat mission.

The boys were nervous about our first combat mission. Especially in light of the fact that it wasn’t going to go the way we were trained. Still, we took off and formed up with the rest of the squadron.

We saw some enemy fighters as we hit the Dutch coast (Zone 3), but they kept their distance. There was some Flak, but it was light and inaccurate. As we got nearer the front lines (Zone 5), we again saw enemy fighters but encountered no direct resistance.

Crossing over into Germany (Zone 6), we were subjected to more Flak. While it was more intense, it was no more effective than what we’d experienced at the coast.

The sky got a bit more crowded as we flew further into Germany (Zone 7), with two waves of EA attacking. An FW tried for us from the first wave, but was chased off by the escorting P-51s. AS similar fate awaited the lone 109 form the second wave.

Near Frankfurt (Zone 8), things really started to heat up. First up were five 190s. The Mustangs chased off three and TSgt Linwood and Sgts Deanne and Guiteraz punched the ticket of another. The remaining FW dove past us so fast the neither he nor we got draw an accurate bead. The second wave consisted of a pair of 190s and a pair of 109s. Two bandits fell to the P-51s and one to us. The surviving 190 was last seen trailing thick smoke. Then another 109 dove on. But this one took his time and walked his fire form nose to tail, knocking out the nose turret, intercom, and he oxygen for the cockpit. With no O2 for me or 2LT Goetz, I had no choice but to drop out of formation to breathable altitude. With no bomb sight of our own, I saw no point of continuing on to the target alone, so ordered 2LT Zhichisecki to dump the bombs and turned for home. We experienced a mixture of light Falk and ground fire.

North of Mannheim (Zone 8), we were challenged by three 109s. Luckily, there was a trio of Mustangs in the area and they dealt with the bandits. We again were subjected to a mixture of Flak and ground fire.

Further along (Zone 7), we saw three groups of EA. But hey must have been going to intercept the formation as hey left us alone. We again took a mixture of Flak and groundfire, though this time we actually got hit. I’ve subsequently learned that the engine fire extinguisher system for the left wing got knocked out.

Back over the front lines (Zone 6), we were set upon by two waves of two Me 109s each. A solitary P-51 engaged one of the 109s of the first wave and TSgt Linwood forced the other to hit the silk. Sgt Beaullamet damaged one of the bandits in the second wave. While we saw some EA near Brussels, we steered clear of them and they left us alone, though their presence was enough to dissuade me from trying to land there. The rest of the flight home was uneventful.

TSgt Raleigh says that he’ll have My Girl patched up in no time and we should all be ready to go again tomorrow if necessary.

Michael Haldon, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24J, My Girl
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: My Girl
Pilot: 1LT Michael (Mitch) Haldon
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 6 November 1944
MISSION NBR. 87/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Bottrup, Germany - Synthetic Oil Refinery
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (2) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (2) [0]
Bombardier:2LT John Zhichisecki (2) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton (2) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood (2) [1 1/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Bruce Allcot (2) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne (2) [5/6]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz (2) [1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Lee Swanson (2) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet (1) [1/2]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighter Encountered: 0

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: DNB

B-24 Damage: Suit Heat System: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 10 Peckham Points, AC Ready 7 Nov 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC & crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“Um, Skipper,” Sgt Zack Beaullamet’s voice sounds over the interphone as My Girl approaches the Belgian coast. “My suit doesn’t seem ta be workin’.” As if to emphasize the point, his teeth canbe heard chattering.

“Mine either,” Lee Swanson.

“Or mine,” Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz echoes.

As a last straw, TSgt Adam Linwood chimes in, “Same here. I think the system’s gone down,” The engineer adds.

“Great,” 1LT Mitch Haldon grouses under his breath. Then, speaking into the mic to the radio operator, “Allcot, inform Squadron our heat’s out and we’re aborting.”

Beside Haldon, 2LT AB Goetz grumbles, “Won’t get credit for this one.”

Takeoff and assembly went well. However, shortly after we climbed above Angels 10 (Zone 3) it became clear the suit heat system had malfunctioned. Despite the S2’s assurances about the diminished threat form the Luftwaffe, I wasn’t going to fly into Germany with none of my gunners operational. Not to mention placing half the crew at risk of frostbite. I informed Squadron of our situation, then dropped to a warmer altitude and turned for home.

Once safely over the Channel (Zone 2) I had 2LT Zhichisecki salvo the bombs. Thankfully that didn’t require a bomb sight. Turned out ot be a wise decision as the conditions at Sudbury would’ve made it darn near impossible to land with them still onboard (OOC – would have resulted in a wrecked plane and injured crew). As it was, the landing was pretty dicey. Still, plane and crew are all intact.

Michael Haldon, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24J, My Girl
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: My Girl
Pilot: 1LT Michael (Mitch) Haldon
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 10 November 1944
MISSION NBR. 88/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Cologne, Germany - Butzweilerhof Airfield
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle – TEC from Z5 IB

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (2) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (2) [0]
Bombardier:2LT John Zhichisecki (2) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton (2) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood (2) [1 1/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Bruce Allcot (2) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne (2) [5/6]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz (2) [1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Lee Swanson (2) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet (1) [1/2]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighter Encountered:
Me 109 4=4 to P-51

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On Target, 60%

B-24 Damage: Instruments – Landing Gear: Mechanical Failure (25) & resulting landing w/o Landing Gear (75+35)
Peckham Points: 135 Peckham Points, AC ready 14 Nov 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC & crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“What the…!” 1LT Mitch Haldron taps some indicator lights on the instrument panel. When they remain lit, he gets on the interphone. “Deanne,” he asks the ball turret gunner. “Are the wheels down?”

2LT AB Goetz shoots his pilot a quizzical look, and then he notices the indicator lights as well.

“Don’t look like it from here,” comes back Sgt Tom Deanne’s voice.

“That A-Hole Raleigh,” Haldron mutters under his breath. To Goetz he says, “We’ll have to watch it at landing.” Goetz simply nods.

***

“Looks like it’s down on this side,” Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz states over the interphone.

“Same here,” Sgt Lee Swanson chimes in form the starboard waist.

“Alright,” 1LT Mitch Haldron says, “All the same, everybody assume crash positions.” Then, to 2LT Tom Goetz, “Here goes.”

As My Girl settles her weight onto the landing gear it collapses, sending the bomber down the tarmac screaming in mechanical agony and sporting large rooster tails of burning metal fragments. Somehow, Haldron and Goetz manage to maintain control and no one gets hurt.

As the big bomber comes to a stop Haldron informs no one in particular, “Raleigh’s gotta go!”

This should have been out third mission, but mechanical problems caused us to scrub our previous one, so this only counts as number 2.

Takeoff and assembly went off fairly well, and we wee soon winging our way across the English Channel nestled in the middle of the low squadron.

Everything was quiet till we neared the Front Lines (Zone 5), when the panel lights indicated the landing gear had deployed. I didn’t feel any drag and had Sgt Deanne in the ball turret check to see if they were down. They weren’t, but it didn’t give me a good feeling about what would happen when we finally landed. I couoldn’t help but think about suffering mechanical failures in this and our last mission, and recalling the rumors I’d heard about how many times the plane TSgt Raleigh was responsible for suffered such a fate; though I didn’t have much time to dwell on it with the target coming up.

There were a couple of waves of EA to greet us over the target (Zone 6). The first wave got tangled up with the rest of the formation and left us alone. A lone 109 from the second wave made for us, but fell to a P-51 from the 479th. While the Flak on target ingress didn’t bother us, we did see Black Widow lose her tail to a hit. The boys only counted two chutes. While 2LT Zhichisecki couldn’t tell how he did, with no bombsight, Sgt Beaullamet says it looked like over half our bombs hit the airfield.

On Target egress, 1LT Richardson and his crew in Barrel Roll suffered the same fate as 2LT Campbell had going in, even down to only two chutes being seen. Three 109s were headed our way, but got intercepted by the Mustangs. After that, we had rockets exploding around us, though none hit.

With Barrel Roll gone, we were now TEC (Zone 5). Fortunately, the Luftwaffe didn’t put in another appearance and the flight home was uneventful.

The same can’t be said for the landing. Our earlier problem resurfaced as we landed. The indicators said the gear was down, and the waist gunners confirmed it. Even so, I ordered everyone to assume crash positions, and it’s a good thing I did. Apparently the gear wasn’t locked, and folded as soon as some weight was put on it. 2LT Goetz and I managed to keep My Girl on the runway and thankfully no one was injured. Despite what I’m told was a spectacular light show, My Girl came out of it relatively intact and should be flying again in a few days. Hopefully the repairs will be done under the watchful eye of someone other than TSgt Raleigh, who has lost my confidence.

Michael Haldon, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24J, My Girl
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: My Girl
Pilot: 1LT Michael (Mitch) Haldon
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 23 December 1944
MISSION NBR. 89/This Bomber 3
TARGET: Ehrang, Germany - Railroad Marshalling Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (3) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (3) [0]
Bombardier:2LT John Zhichisecki (3) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton (3) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood (3) [1 1/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Bruce Allcot (3) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne (3) [5/6]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz (3) [1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Lee Swanson (3) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet (3) [1/2]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 3=3 to P-51

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On Target, 50%

B-24 Damage: Instruments – Propeller Feathering: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 10 Peckhamn Points, AC ready 24 Dec 44

Casualties: None

Landing: AC & crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“San Antonio Rose’s on fire!” St Lee Swanson shouts over the interphone as My Gril makes her way through the intercepting German fighters. While the P-51s of the 20th kept the bandits off there back, it seems Rose wasn’t as lucky. “Come on!” Swanson urges the crew of the stricken B-24. “Get outta there!” A brief moment of relief overtakes him as Swanson then counts 10 chutes, although the last one took an agonizingly long time to appear.

Swanson has little time to ponder the crew of Rose’s fate as nearby flak bursts start rocking My Girl.
Almost as soon as 2LT John Zhichisecki announces, “Bombs away,” another B-24 falls out of formation. This time it’s the new crew of Gremlin Gus.

While not for some others, this was a milk run for us. The only problems, if you want to call them that, were a trio of Me 109s that made for us on target ingress and an instrument failure. The 109s were quickly dealt with by our Little Friends, and we didn’t learn about the failure of the propeller feathering controls till the ground crew had a chance to go over My Girl after our return to Sudbury. Not an auspicious beginning for our new Crew Chief. Both crew and aircraft will be ready for the next mission.

The crew noticed the loss of both San Antonio Rose and Gremlin Gus Over the target. Ten chutes were reported for the former and I understand that Gus made it back home.

Michael Haldon, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24J, My Girl
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: My Girl
Pilot: 1LT Michael (Mitch) Haldon
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 24 December 1944
MISSION NBR. 90/This Bomber 4
TARGET: Frankfort, Germany - Landing Field
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (4) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (4) [0]
Bombardier:2LT John Zhichisecki (4) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton (4) [0] LW – Treated & Released
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood (4) [1 1/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Bruce Allcot (4) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne (4) [5/6]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz (4) [1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Lee Swanson (4) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet (4) [1/2]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
He 162 1=Undamaged (1 Ace)
Fw 190 1=to P-51
2

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x3 (6), Control Cables x1 (10), Nose Turret Inop (20), LW x1 (5)
Peckham Points: 41 Peckham Points, AC ready 25 Dec 44.

Casualties: Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton: LW – Treated & Released

Landing: AC & crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton: Purple Heart

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Looks like there’s somethin’ comin’ outta the #1 engine,” Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz from his position at the left waist gun.

“Linwood, Deanne, you see anything?” Pilot 1LT Mitch Haldon asks the engineer and ball turret gunners.
After a short but uncomfortable silence Sgt Tom Deanne reports back, “Nothing here, Skip.”

TSgt Adam Linwood’s report isn’t as promising. “Looks like #1’s leaking oil. Hafta keep an eye on it ta make sure it doesn’t catch fire.”

“Turning back?” 2LT AB Goetz, sitting in the right-hand seat, asks Haldon.

“No.” Mitch replies firmly. Then, to Linwood, “Keep an eye on it, for now.” Once they’re over hostile territory Haldon knows the engineer’s attention will be on looking for EA.

Despite the lousy weather, takeoff and assembly went well. But, that wasn’t going to last long. We’d barely gotten over the North Sea (Zone 2) when the #1 engine sprang an oil leak. I decided to continue the mission. Turned out to be the right choice as #1 stopped leaking once we hit the coast (Zone 3). Others weren’t so lucky, Witch’s Tit and Hedy’s Ready both dropping out of formation. With Witch’s Tit gone, Cheers for Beer slid into TEC as we pushed further across the Netherlands (Zone 4).

Things were quiet, at least for us, as we crossed the German border (Zone 5). But further in (Zone 6) we ran into some resistance. We had the unnerving experience of bombs falling around us and then had our first run-in with one of those new-fangled wonder weapons. 2LT Carlton and TSgt Linwood both thought it was an He 162. They’re not completely sure, it was there and gone almost before they could fire. There was some light Flak, but it didn’t touch us.

Surprisingly no EA challenged us as we hit the IP (Zone 7). We weren’t as lucky with the Flak. We took several hits, though nothing we couldn’t handle. 2LT Zhichisecki dropped right on cue. Sgt Deanne said it looked like about 30% on target, though how he could tell through the cloud cover is beyond me.

We took more Flak hits on target egress. This time it was telling, knocking out the nose turret and putting a few pieces of shrapnel in 2LT Carlton. While it wasn’t enough to take Jay (2LT Carlton) out, without the nose turret he as at loose ends. Coming out of the Flak a lone FW made for us, but was driven off by a pair of Mustangs.

As we crossed the German border (Zone 6) there was some more Flak. While it didn’t hit us, someone reported Hit Parade falling out of formation. Then, as we passed south of Brussels (Zone 4) Maid in the Shade dropped out. At this point, there wasn’t much of a formation left. Thankfully, there weren’t any more problems and despite the beautiful English weather over Sudbury we landed without incident.

2LT Carlton’s injuries were minor. I think he was back in the billet before the rest of us finished debriefing. While My Girl took some damage, she’ll be ready to fly again tomorrow as well.

Michael Haldon, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24J, My Girl
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: My Girl
Pilot: 1LT Michael (Mitch) Haldon
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 15 January 1945
MISSION NBR. 91/This Bomber 5
TARGET: Ingolstadt, Germany - Marshalling Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, TEC

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (5) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (5) [0]
Bombardier:2LT John Zhichisecki (5) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton (5) [0] #
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood (5) [1 1/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Bruce Allcot (5) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne (5) [5/6] ###
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz (5) [1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Lee Swanson (5) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet (5) [1/2] ##
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 262 2=1 KIA, 1 Damaged (1 Ace)
Me 163 1=1 Damaged
Fw 190 1=1 to P-51
Me 109 6=2KIA, 1 Damaged, 3 to P-51 (2 Green)
10

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton: ½ Me 262
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne: ½ Me 262; 2 Me 109
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet: 1 ½ Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 20%

B-24 Damage: Rt Wing: NE (5)
Peckham Points: 5 Peckham Points, AC ready 16 Jan 45.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC & crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: Air Medal for entire crew

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Those Nazi wonder weapons ain ‘t so tough,” the crew of My Girl congratulate each other once they’re safely back on the ground at Sudbury.

“Yeah,” Sgt Tom Deanne chimes in. “Me and the Looey,” he indicates 2LT Jay Carlton, “Flamed one, and Adam tagged another.”

I also put more’n a few hole in one of them rocket planes,” TSgt Adam Linwood adds.

We took off and assumed our position as TEC for the low squadron. Not exactly and enviable position, but it turned out alright for us, this time anyway. Things were pretty quiet till we crossed the border into France (Zone 6). While Jerry made some desultory attempts to interfere, fire from the rest of the formation kept any bandits off us.

Once we were over Germany (Zone 8) it started to get a little warmer. Rockets were fired at us, though none hit. This was followed up by a pair of me 109s, one of which fell to the P-51s while we sent the other one off trialing smoke. Further into Germany (Zone 9) we faced a mixed bag of 109s, 190s, and an Me 163. Our Little Friends dealt with the conventional fighters while we gave the rocket plane something to remember us by.

Target Ingress (Zone 10) and it was more jets, a pair of Me 262s and a lone Me 109. The 109 got tangled up with the Mustangs while we flamed one of the jets and damaged the other. After that, it seemed Jerry was having a hard time getting his act together (OOC – Random Event: Bad Luftwaffe Communications). While the Flak managed to hit us, it wasn’t anything serious, though it did distract 2LT Zhichisecki enough to make him drop a few seconds late.

Flak on target egress was less effective and, while there was a flurry of activity, most of it seemed focused elsewhere. Our Little Friends chased off a lone 109, that was all of the first wave to challenge us. We then suffered through another rocket barrage. The third attacking wave never got past the rest of the formation. Others weren’t quite so lucky, Hit Parade bursting into flame. The boys counted only two chutes.

While we experienced sporadic ground fire for the next few miles (Zone 9-6), the biggest threat occurred shortly after turning for home (Zone 89) when several waves of attacking EA sent another bomber nearly right into us (OOC – Random Event: Mid-Air Collision). Quick reflexes saved the day, after which we downed a 109.

While we saw several waves of EA form up (Zones 7 & 6), none pressed the attack home. After tagging two of the Nazi wonder weapons, TSgt Linwopod was feeling pretty cocky (OOC – Random Event: Ace for a Day). As it turned out, he never got the chance to prove it as there were no more enemy encounters.

The Metro boys got it right, the sky being uncharacteristically clear and sunny as we put her down back at Sudbury. The boys were busy congratulating themselves on how well they did against the jets, and our temporary crew chief, wonder when we’ll get a permanent one, was pleased with how little we mangled ‘his airplane.’

Michael Haldon, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24J, My Girl
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: My Girl
Pilot: 1LT Michael (Mitch) Haldon
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 3 February 1945
MISSION NBR. 91/This Bomber 5
TARGET: Ingolstadt, BERLIN, Germany - Gas, Water, and Electricity Plants
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (6) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (6) [0]
Bombardier:2LT John Zhichisecki (6) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton (6) [1/2]
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood (6) [1 1/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Bruce Allcot (6) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne (6) [2 1/3] *
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz (6) [1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Lee Swanson (6) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet (6) [1 1/2]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
He 162H 2=1 Damaged, 1 Undamaged (2 Ace)
Me 210 3=1 KIA, 2 to P-51
5

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne: Me 210

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x2 (4), Rt WG Heat Out (10), Rt Aileron: NE (5), LT Tailplane x1 (25), Intercom Out (10), Rubber Raft (10), Bombs: NE (5), “1 Engine Fire (15+25+25), Instruments: Engine Fire Extinguishers: Mechanical Failure (15)
Peckham Points: 139 Peckham Points, AC ready 5 Feb 45.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC & crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

1LT Mitch Haldron feels a hand on his shoulder. Turning, he sees Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz, the port waist gunner. Rodrigo removes the temp O2 mask to speak. “Skipper, Lee’s startin’ ta shake pretty bad. I think that Flak hit knocked out his suit heat when we were makin’ our bomb run. I wanted ta tell ya, but the interphone’s out.”

“Removing his own mask, Mitch tells Rodrigo, “Tell Swanson to stop playing hero and get his ass up here right now. If he balks, tell him it’s an order.”

Guiteraz smiles before responding, “Yes, Sir!” Putting his mask back on, he heads back toward the waist.

This one didn’t start out well with Hedy’s Ready aborting on takeoff (Zone 1). That was followed by 2LT Carlton reporting the nose turret on the fritz as we headed out over the North Sea (Zone 2), about the same time Dotty dropped out of formation. Fortunately, between them 2LT Carlton and TSgt Linwood got it operational in short order (Zone 3).

The coastal guns (Zone 4) weren’t much of a problem and while we saw EA as he headed further inland (Zone 5), they kept their distance. Well into Germany (Zone 8) we saw more EA, but they were no more interested in a fight than the ones we saw earlier.

Jerry got more aggressive once we were over the target (Zone 10). Three twin-engine Me 210s made for us. Two got chased off by our Little Friends and the third fell to Sgt Deanne’s marksmanship. Apparently the Luftwaffe had enough of close in fighting as this was followed up by a barrage of rockets. Then the Flak started in. We took a couple of hits, one knocking out Sgt Deanne’s suit heat, though I didn’t learn of that till later.

The left tailplane got chewed up by Flak on target egress and then we ran into a pair of He 162s, both flown by aces. Thank God those things don’t have much flight time. One set the #1engine on fire and the other knocked out the interphone and shredded the rubber raft. The fire in #1 was quickly extinguished.

Heading for home we encountered the Luftwaffe a couple of times (Zones 8 & 4), but in both cases Jerry remained at a distance. The coastal Flak (Zone 4) was again ineffective.

As we headed back out over the North Sea (Zone 3) the panel indicated a malfunction of the engine fire extinguisher system. I’m glad it waited until the #1 fire to happen.

With the uncharacteristic good weather over Sudbury landing was no problem. My Girl shouldbe patched up and ready to fly again in a couple of days.

Michael Haldon, 1LT, USAAF commanding
B-24J, My Girl
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: My Girl LLS
Pilot: 1LT Michael (Mitch) Haldon
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 25 February 1945
MISSION NBR. 93/This Bomber 7
TARGET: Fredrichshafen, Germany - Tank Factory
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (7) [0] KIA
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (7) [0] KIA
Bombardier:2LT John Zhichisecki (7) [0] BO - POW
Navigator: 2LT Jay Carlton (7) [1/2] BO - POW
Engineer: TSgt Adam Linwood (7) [1 1/3] BO - POW
Radio Operator: Sgt Bruce Allcot (7) [0] BO - POW
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Thomas (Tom) Deanne (7) [3 1/3] BO - POW
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Rodrigo Guiteraz (7) [1/3] BO - POW
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Lee Swanson (7) [0] BO - POW
Tail Gunner: Sgt Zachary (Zack) Beaullamet (7) [1 1/2] BO - POW
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered: None

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: DNB

B-24 Damage: AC lost due to Mechanical Failure of all four engine turbo-superchargers
Peckham Points: All, AC lost

Casualties:
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon (7) [0] KIA
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz (7) [0] KIA

Landing: AC lost over Germany due to mechanical failure

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Mitchel (Mitch) Haldon: Purple Heart, posthumous
Co-Pilot: 2LT Albert (AB) Goetz: Purple Heart, posthumous
Rest of crew: POW Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

As reported by other members of the 78th Squadron: Crossing into Germany (Zone 8) all four engines on My Girl suddenly stopped working. Analysis is that it was most likely due to a freak mechanical failure of the entire engine turbo-supercharger system, other AC of the 78th reporting repeated issues with maintenance/reliability of the Squadron aircraft. Eight chutes were observed as My Girl lost altitude.

International Red Cross reports all crew except 1LT Haldon and 2LT Goetz are POWs.

Post war debriefing of surviving crew indicate that 1LT Haldon and 2LT Goetz remained at the controls to give the others a chance of bailing out.

(OOC - rolled a Mechanical Failure, then turbo-superchargers, then all turbos-superchargers fail. Used the LLS to reroll the last and again rolled all turbo-superchargers fail. TFT rule 5.10 says that with no engines operating, BO on Tables 7-3 or 7-4. I assume that, with the pilot/co-pilot at the controls, the others BO of a controlled plane while the pilot and co-pilot then BO of an uncontrolled plane – I have read that the B-24 was a physically demanding plane to fly, and that was with everything working, so it would take both pilot and co-pilot to control a dead-stick.)

[crushedhat]

B24J: High Society Dame
Pilot: 1LT Bryce Harrington Jr.
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 3 March 1945
MISSION NBR. 94/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Hanover, Germany - Tank Factory
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Bryce Harrington Jr. (1) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Michael (Mike) Connelly (1) [0]
Togglier: Sgt Martin (Marty) James (1) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Clement (Clem) Hodges (1) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Lawrence (Larry) Kilmore (1) [0]
Radio Operator: Sgt Adam Wing (1) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Charles (Chuck) Zenkowski
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Damon Short (1) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Steve Banyun (1) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt George Willers (1) [0]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 262 2=1 Damaged, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace)
Me 410 1=1 to P-51
3

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On target, 20%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x2 (4)
Peckham Points: 4 Peckham Points, AC ready 4 March 45.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

While we got our baptism by fire, listening to the old hands, it was a relatively tame one. Of course, it didn’t feel that way when the jets came screaming in.

It hardly seemed like we were in a war until we hit the enemy coast (Zone 4), when we experienced our first hostile Flak. While flying through the black clouds was a bit disconcerting, the German gunners couldn’t seem to find the range; not that I’m complaining. A little further inland (Zone 5) and we could see enemy fighters in the distance, but none bothered us.

Things settled back down till we approached the target (Zone 8). First the Germans fired rockets into the formation. While several exploded nearby, none caused us any damage. The rockets may have been a mistake, as it seemed the second wave of EA was reluctant to close, perhaps fearing being hit by their fellow flyers. While heavier than what we encountered at the coast, the Flak on target ingress was no more accurate. Sgt James may have been distracted by all the bursting Flak. Still, he wasn’t too late in dropping.

Flak on target egress was again more of a psychological than a physical danger. While we didn’t encounter any enemy fighters, I did close up on the rest of the squadron just in case.

Passing by Bielefeld (Zone 7), more rockets were fired into the formation. This time the succeeding waves followed up. First we faced an Me 410 which was quickly chased off by a couple of P-51s. Then we faced our first jet, an Me 262. 2LT Hodges managed to tag the bandit. While it wasn’t much of a hit, he didn’t come around for another pass. The Flak was as heavy as we faced on target ingress and, while equally ineffective against us, we saw Witch’s Tit get hit and go down. Three chutes were counted.

Near Osnabruch (Zone 6) there was more Flak, though less intense. Back over the Netherlands (Zone 5) and we tangled with another 262. This one an ace judging by the markings on his tail. It was now the Kraut’s turn to tag us, though fortunately not seriously.

After that there was no further excitement until trying to land amidst the rain. That went well and both plane and crew will be available for the next mission.

Bryce Harrington Jr. 1LT USAAF, commanding
B24J High Society Dame
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: High Society Dame
Pilot: 1LT Bryce Harrington Jr.
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 15 March 1945
MISSION NBR. 95/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Zossen, Germany - HQ of the German High Command
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Bryce Harrington Jr. (2) [0] KIA
Co-Pilot: 2LT Michael (Mike) Connelly (2) [0] KIA
Togglier: Sgt Martin (Marty) James (2) [0] KIA
Navigator: 2LT Clement (Clem) Hodges (2) [0] KIA
Engineer: TSgt Lawrence (Larry) Kilmore (2) [0] KIA
Radio Operator: Sgt Adam Wing (2) [0] KIA
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Charles (Chuck) Zenkowski (2) [0] KIA
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Damon Short (2) [0] KIA
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Steve Banyun (2) [0] KIA
Tail Gunner: Sgt George Willers (2) [0] KIA
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 2=2 to P-51
Me 410 1=1 KIA (Green)
Ta 152H 2=1KIA, 1 to P-51 (1 Green)
5

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: DNB

B-24 Damage: AC disintegrates when bombload explodes
Peckham Points: All

Casualties: Entire crew KIA

Landing: AC and crew did not return

Awards/Promotion Requests: Purple Heart, posthumous for entire crew

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

During target ingress a flak hit apparently hit the bomb load, detonating it as airplane and crew disappeared in a blinding flash. There were no survivors, as reported by other crews of the 78th.

[crushedhat]

B24J: Country Gal
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 20 March 1945
MISSION NBR. 96/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Hamburg, Germany - Oil Refinery
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince, (1) [0] BO
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) McCarthy, (1) [0] BO
Togglier: Sgt Isaiah Weinstein, (1) [0] BO
Navigator: 2LT Robert (Bobbie) Ziegler, (1) [0] BO
Engineer: TSgt Matthew Parsons, (1) [0] BO
Radio Operator: Sgt Wallace (Wally) Cleaver, (1) [0] BO
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt William (Bud) Sanders, (1) [0] BO
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Cleland (Clel) Doorne, (1) [0] BO
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt David Riggs, (1) [0] BO
Tail Gunner: Sgt Henry James* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 2=2 to P-51
Me 410 1=1 Undamaged
3

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On Target, 40%

B-24 Damage: AC Lost
Peckham Points: all of them

Casualties: None

Landing: Crew safe at Sudbury, but AC lost.

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“It’s no use, Skipper. We can’t get the damned gear down.” That report from TSgt Matthew Parsons working with Sgt Clel Doorne in the bomb bay seals Country Gal’s fate. With no hydraulics due to the failure of the #3 engine, and no landing gear, 1LT Albert Prince decides against trying to bring the unlucky bomber in.

“Alright everybody,” Prince announces. “I’ll circle the field while you hit the silk.” Turning to his co-pilot, 2LT Jack McCarthy, Prince says, “We’ll turn’er back over the North Sea and once we’re sure she won’t go down over land, then bail out ourselves.”

Our first mission wasn’t a very positive experience. It started out well enough with little trouble from the Germans. AS we crossed the German coast (Zone 7) we could see fighters in the distance, but none came close to us. AS for the coastal flak, it presented little problem as well.

Three EA challenged us on target ingress (Zone 8). Two FWs that got tangled up with the Mustangs and an Me 410 with whom we exchanged ineffective fire. While the flak on ingress was heavier than that along the coast, it was no more effective, and Sgt Weinstein dropped on cue.

Flak was a bit more of a problem on target egress, knocking out Sgt Doorne’s O2 and sending him to the radio room. Coming out of the flak, we again saw some enemy fighters, but none up close.

The coastal flak on the way home (Zone 7) was no more effective than it had been coming in. But, once we were over the North Sea and almost home (Zone 3), the Gremlins hit. At least, this was the first time we knew though as we would subsequently learn they were busy all along. The #3 engine caught fire and it looked for a moment like the extinguishers weren’t going to work. Thankfully they did.

As I said, the Gremlins were busy all along. As we circled the field waiting our turn in the landing que, the O2 system suddenly went out. At least we were at a low enough altitude that it didn’t matter. But then, was we came in, the landing gear wouldn’t deploy (OOC Mechanical Failure rolled in Zone 4 OB). TSgt Parsons and Sgt Doorne tried to lower it manually, but it wouldn’t budge. With no landing gear and the #3 engine out, I wasn’t about to risk everyone’s life on a landing and rose back up to an adequate altitude for the crew to bail out. Then 2LT McCarthy and I turned Country Gal back toward the North Sea. Once we could see the water, we put her on autopilot and hit the silk ourselves. I guess we’ll need a new plane.

Albert Prince, 1LT USAAF, commanding
B24J Country Gal
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: Lady Luck
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 30 March 1945
MISSION NBR. 97/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Bremen, Germany - Submarine Construction Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince, (2) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) McCarthy, (2) [0]
Togglier: Sgt Isaiah Weinstein, (2) [0] *
Navigator: 2LT Robert (Bobbie) Ziegler, (2) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Matthew Parsons, (2) [0] LW – RTD 3 Apr 45
Radio Operator: Sgt Wallace (Wally) Cleaver, (2) [0] SW – IH 13 Apr 45
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt William (Bud) Sanders, (2) [0]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Cleland (Clel) Doorne, (2) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt David Riggs, (2) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Henry James* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 163 2=2 Damaged (1 Ace)
Me 109 3=1 KIA, 2 Damaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
Fw 190 5=2 Damaged, 3to P-51 (2 Ace)
10

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Togglier: Sgt Isaiah Weinstein: Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x6 (12), SW x1 (5), LW x1 (2), Top Turret Inop (20), Rt Flap:NE x2 (10), Pilot Compartment Heat Out (10), Bomb Controls Inop (10), O2 System Out x2 (20), Togglier Heat Out (10)
Peckham Points: 99 Peckham Points, AC ready 31 Mar 45

Casualties:
Engineer: TSgt Matthew Parsons, (2) [0] LW – RTD 3 Apr 45
Radio Operator: Sgt Wallace (Wally) Cleaver, (2) [0] SW – IH 13 Apr 45

Landing: AC & Crew safe at Sudbury.

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Engineer: TSgt Matthew Parsons: Purple Heart
Radio Operator: Sgt Wallace (Wally) Cleaver: Purple Heart

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
After the rest of the formation has returned and settled into their hardstands, Lady Luck arrives. A red flare is fired, setting the ambulances and crash trucks into motion as the lumbering B24 makes her landing approach. The emergency vehicles pace the bomber as it rolls down the runway.

When the bomber comes to a stop the crew deplanes. One crewman climbs into the back of the waiting ambulance. Another is taken out on a stretcher. The remainder of the crew climb into the back of a 6x6 and head off for debriefing as their wounded comrades race to the hospital.

Our second mission in our second aircraft. This one went better than our previous mission, though not for everyone. Takeoff and assembly were uneventful, as was the flight across the North Sea.

We picked up some light flak as we crossed the Dutch coast (Zone 5), but it was weak and inaccurate. entering German airspace (Zone 6) we were met by one of their Me 163 rocket planes. We managed to get a few licks in, but then again, so did he. Sgt Cleaver took several hits, taking him out of action. There weas more flak, though it was no more of a problem than that at the coast.

Things started to warm up on target ingress (Zone 7), when three Fw 190s made for us. To our relief, they were diverted by the need to shake a trio of Mustangs off their tails. Seeing the reception their comrades received, the next wave of EA thought better of making the attempt. It was then that Sgt Riggs reported his gun was frozen. Though heavier than what we encountered earlier, the flak was no more accurate and we got through it unscathed. Sgt Weinstein was able to drop on cue.

Coming off the target the flak was lighter and no more accurate. As we exited the flak, we were met by another Me 163. WE again managed to hit him, though not fatally. And, as before, he was able to hit us, knocking out both my and 2LT McCarthy’s heat. Then we faced off Against three 109s, including an ace. Our Little Friends were busy elsewhere, leaving us to deal with the bandits on our own. WE flamed one, damaged one, and jammed the Lt Waist gun on one. In return, we suffered several hits. The top turret was taken out of action and TSgt Parsons suffered a light wound. This was followed up by a pair of 190s, both aces. We definitely came out on the short end of this exchange, doing minimal damage while losing the entire oxygen system. With the O2 out, I had no choice but to drop down to Angles 10.

Now on our own (Zone 6), a strange calm settled over us (Random Event: Lady Luck Smiles), perhaps fueled by the fact that both waist guns were back in operation. Though subjected to more flak, ass well as groundfire we nonetheless were unhurt. Over the Netherlands (Zone 5), we took more groundfire, knocking out Sgt Weinstein’s suit heat. Fortunately, it was no longer needed at our current altitude.

After that, it was an uneventful flight back to Sudbury where TSgt Parsons and Sgt Cleaver were taken to the hospital. Doc says Parsons will be back on flight status by the 3rd, but Sgt Cleaver will require an extended hospital stay followed by a trip back to the States. We’ll be needing a radio operator. Tsgt Rice, though unhappy with the condition of ‘his plane,’ says he’ll have her back in flying shape by tomorrow.

Albert Prince, 1LT USAAF, commanding
B24J Lady Luck
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: Lady Luck LLS
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 3 April 1945
MISSION NBR. 98/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Kiel, Germany - Oil Storage Depot
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince, (3) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) McCarthy, (3) [0]
Togglier: Sgt Isaiah Weinstein, (3) [1]
Navigator: 2LT Robert (Bobbie) Ziegler, (3) [0]
Engineer: TSgt Matthew Parsons, (3) [0]
Radio Operator: Sgt Rolland Knutson (1) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt William (Bud) Sanders, (3) [0]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Cleland (Clel) Doorne, (3) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt David Riggs, (3) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Henry James
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered: None

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On Target, 50%

B-24 Damage: None
Peckham Points: 0 Peckham Points, AC ready 4 Apr 45

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital:
Radio Operator: Sgt Wallace (Wally) Cleaver, (2) [0] SW – IH 13 Apr 45

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“There goes Gremlin Gus,” Sgt Henry James announces as the formation comes off the target. From his vantage point in the tail, he can clearly see the TEC bomber fall out of formation. “And Shenanigans, too.”

Sitting at his radio, the new Radioman, Sgt Rolland Knuttson wonders if it’s always this deadly. Then Henry’s voice comes over the interphone again. “Yankee Slugger’s slipped into last place.”

“Yankees were always overrated,” Comes another voice. “Me, I’m a Mets fan.”

This was an easy introduction for our new radio operator, though he was a bit concerned about two ships dropping out of formation over the target. We tried to reassure him, being helped by the fact that both birds made it back to Sudbury.

For us, things were pretty quiet till we crossed the German coast (Zone 7) when first, TSgt Parson reported the top turret was on the fritz. Then Fritz proper put in an appearance. The first wave of EA was reluctant to press the fight home, while the second stood off and fired rockets into the formation, none hitting us.

There were no enemy fighters to greet us on target ingress (Zone 8), and while there were a couple of close bursts from the flak, all they managed was to bounce us around a little andSgt Weinstein dropped right on the Pathfinder’s signal.

Target egress was even less of a problem, for us; Gremlin Gus in Tail position and Shenanigans both fell out of formation. Yankee Slugger took up the TEC slot. Again, the Luftwaffe whiel present, didn’t want to put up a fight. And we made it through the flak unscathed.

The rest of the flight home and landing were uneventful. Both us and Lady Luck will be ready to do it all again tomorrow.

Albert Prince, 1LT USAAF, commanding
B24J Lady Luck
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: Lady Luck LLS
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 9 April 1945
MISSION NBR. 99/This Bomber 3
TARGET: Wolfrathausen, Germany - Munitions Factory
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, TEC

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince, (4) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) McCarthy, (4) [0]
Togglier: Sgt Isaiah Weinstein, (4) [1]
Navigator: 2LT Robert (Bobbie) Ziegler, (4) [0] #
Engineer: TSgt Matthew Parsons, (4) [0] #
Radio Operator: Sgt Rolland Knutson (2) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt William (Bud) Sanders, (4) [0]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Cleland (Clel) Doorne, (4) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt David Riggs, (4) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Henry James (4) [0]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 163 1=1 Damaged (1 Green)
He 162 2=1 KIA, 1 Damaged (1 Green, 1 Ace)
Me 109 1=1 to P-51
4
Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Robert (Bobbie) Ziegler: He 162

Bomb Run: On Target, 40%

B-24 Damage: Tail Turret Inop: Mechanical Failure (20), O2 System Inop: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 30 Peckham Points, AC ready 10 Apr 45.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital:
Radio Operator: Sgt Wallace (Wally) Cleaver, (2) [0] SW – IH 13 Apr 45

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Ah…Skipper?” tail gunner Sgt Henry James’ voice comes hesitantly over the interphone. “Aren’t we ‘sposed ta be the last ship in the Squadron?”

“Yeah,” 1LT Albert Prince replies.

“Then how come another bomber’s pulled in behind us?”

Prince and his co-pilot, 2LT Jack McCarthy exchange confused looks. Then the pilot asks James, “Can you make out his markings?”

“No,” comes back James’ answer.

“Knutson,” Prince instructs the radio operator. “See if you can raise him.”

After a few minutes Knutson comes back. “No luck, Skip. I tried our frequency, the 80th’s, the 79th’s, Group, and even the fighter’s. No answer.”

“Could be one of those captured planes we heard the Krauts use to shadow formations. Keep a close eye on him, James.”

After a bit the tail gunner reports, “He’s leaving.”

Takeoff and assembly wen well, as did the rendezvous with the 20th. WE didn’t see any action until target ingress (Zone 10) when three jets hit us. First in was one of those rocket planes, an Me 163. While he didn’t hit us, we did manage to hit him. Then int was an He 162 that we knocked out of the sky, followed by another 162 that, while we didn’t shoot him down, we did hit him. All in all, these new wonder weapons don’t seem all that wonderful. The flak was light, as promised, and didn’t hit us, letting Sgt Weinstein drop right on Lead’s cue.

There was no flak coming off the targe, nor was there any interference from enemy fighters. WE did pick up a straggler that didn’t respond to any of our radio calls. He dropped out of formation shortly afterward (Zone 9), just as another wave of EA showed up. I suspect it may have been one of those captured bombers we were told about that shadow the formation to help guide in the fighters. A lone Me 109 made for us, but didn’t stand a chance against the Mustangs. I guess they were hungry for some action after being frustrated by all the jets.

After that, things quieted down until Lady Luck started to fall apart on us. We were almost out of France (Zone 5) when Sgt James reported a power failure in the tail turret. He was unable to fix it. Then, crossing over Belgium and back into France (Zone 3) the oxygen system failed on us. Luckily, the whole formation was at angles 10 by then so we didn’t have to leave the formation.

WE experienced no more problems and landed back at Sudbury without further incident. I instructed TSgt Rice to go over the old girl thoroughly before our next mission. Me and the boys plan to take Sgt Cleaver into town, for old times sake now that he’s ambulatory. I guess he’ll be shipping back Stateside in a few days.

Albert Prince, 1LT USAAF, commanding
B24J Lady Luck
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24J: Lady Luck LLS
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 25 April 1945
MISSION NBR. 100/This Bomber 4
TARGET: Pilsen, Czechoslovakia - Skoda Armament Works
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince, (5) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) McCarthy, (5) [0]
Togglier: Sgt Isaiah Weinstein, (5) [1]
Navigator: 2LT Robert (Bobbie) Ziegler, (5) [1/2]
Engineer: TSgt Matthew Parsons, (5) [1/2] #
Radio Operator: Sgt Rolland Knutson (4) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt William (Bud) Sanders, (5) [0]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Cleland (Clel) Doorne, (5) [0] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt David Riggs, (5) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Henry James (5) [0]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
FW 190 3=1 KIA, 1 Damaged, 1 to P-51 (1 Green)
Me 410 1=1 to P-51
Me 109 2=1 to P-51, 1 Undamaged (1 Green)
Ta 152 1=1 to P-51

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Cleland (Clel) Doorne: ½ Fw 190

Bomb Run: On Target, 60%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x1 (2), Bombs: NE (5), Radio x2 (10+5), Navigation Equipment (10), Auxiliary Hydraulic System (10), Brakes Out (25)
Peckham Points: 67 Peckham Points, AC ready 26 Apr 45.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Sudbury

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: 1LT Albert Prince: Air Medal
Co-Pilot: 2LT John (Jack) McCarthy: Air Medal
Togglier: Sgt Isaiah Weinstein: Air Medal
Navigator: 2LT Robert (Bobbie) Ziegler: Air Medal
Engineer: TSgt Matthew Parsons: Air Medal
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt William (Bud) Sanders: Air Medal
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Cleland (Clel) Doorne: Air Medal
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt David Riggs: Air Medal
Tail Gunner: Sgt Henry James: Air Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“El Tee,” Sgt Bud Sanders’ voice sounds nervous. But then again, trapped in the ball turret as the lumbering bomber comes in for a landing, who wouldn’t be? “I don’t want to be the last man to die in the war.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence,” 1LT Albert Prince replies.

A moment later it seems Sanders’ fear may be justified as, the right brakes failing to function the big bomber takes a sharp swing to the left and leaves the runway. Sgts Doorne and Riggs in the waist don’t need the interphone to hear Sanders’ panicked yelp.

While the only thing ending up being injured is Sanders’ pride, the ground crew still needs to hose out the ball turret.

Things were pretty quiet till we were well into Germany (Zone 9) when a lone Ta 152 showed up off our port beam. The Mustangs jumped right on his tail and Jerry quickly lost interest in us.

As we approached the target (Zone 10), a pair of 109s and an Me 410 made for us. Again, our Little Friends drove off tow of the bandits and the third dove past us so fast he couldn’t aim properly. The same can’t be said for the flak gunners, the radio getting knocked out ands a tense few seconds passed as shrapnel rattled around in the bomb bay. Fortunately, nothing exploded until after Sgt Weinstein dropped on the Pathfinder’s signal.

Coming off the target, the sky was full of EA, although the first two waves seemed to be occupied with other bombers. Not so the third wave. Three FWs made for us. The boys from the 20th chased off one and we flamed another. The third, coming up from behind sprayed bullets all over the place. Sgt Knutson swore as what was let of his radio was shot to pieces. The same with same with 2LT Zielger’s equipment. The bigger problem was the loss of the auxiliary hydraulic system and its impact on the tail and ball turrets. Also, but we wouldn’t find this out till landing, Jerry knocked out the brakes on the right main landing gear. At least the 190 took enough of a beating that he didn’t come around for another pass, although Sgt Sanders was none too happy about being stuck in the ball turret.

As we neared the Belgian coast (Zone 3), Sgt James reported that in addition to his hydraulics, the power had failed to the tail turret. Gremlins. Sgt James got the power back over the North Sea (Zone 2).

As I said, we learned upon landing that the right main brakes were out when, applying them, Lady Luck made a hard left into the grass alongside the runway. Sgt Sanders was none to happy about the experience. But at least he lived to express his displeasure.

TSgt Rice says he’ll have the old girl patched up and ready to fly by tomorrow. I think it may take Sgt Sanders a bit longer before he’s ready to climb back into the ball turret.

Albert Prince, 1LT USAAF, commanding
B24J Lady Luck
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

HERE BEGINS A NEW CAMPAIGN

B24D: Laid Back Lady
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 7 Jan 44
MISSION NBR. 1/This Bomber 1
TARGET: Mostar, Yugoslavia - Airdrome
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Paul Garfield, Capt, (1) [0]
Co-Pilot: Elliott Peterson, 2LT, 22, (1) [0]
Bombardier: Charles (Charlie) Martell, 2LT, (1) [0]
Navigator: Bruce Ellison, 2LT, 27, (1) [0]
Engineer: Michael Newton, TSgt, 20, (1) [0]
Radio Operator: Daniel (Danny) Garson, Sgt, (1) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Joseph (Joe) Blaston, Sgt, (1) [0]
Port Waist Gunner: Peter Carson, Sgt, (1) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Donald Davila, Sgt, (1) [0]
Tail Gunner: Douglas (Doug), Richard. Sgt, (1) [0]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 2=1 to P-47, 1 Undamaged (1 Green)
Me 109 1=1 Damaged
3

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: Of Target, 0%

B-24 Damage: Instruments – Elevators: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 10 Peckham Points, AC read 8 Jan44

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Hey, Captain, jeep’s here!” TSgt Michael Newton calls out to Capt Paul Garfield announcing the arrival of their ride to the deb

“Go on without me,” Garfield tells his crew. “I’ll walk. It'll help blow off my anger,” he thinks.

The news brings frowns to the faces of the men of Laid Ba Lady. If they have to wait for their AC before debriefing t means a long wait before they can get out of their flying gear and relax. Garfield doesn’t care.

“Serves ‘em right,” Garfield thinks, reflecting on how they all embarrassed him on today’s mission. “I’m the XO, and one of the few officers in this Squadron that’s made a career of the AAC. To completely miss the target!” But first, Garfield needs to have a few choice words with TSgt James Mason, Lady’s Crew Chief, about the ‘little problem’ with the elevator controls.

Takeoff and assembly went well, with exception of Stupid Dragon’s malfunction. It was a short flight, though we ran into trouble over the Adriatic (Zone 2) when the elevator controls went out. I have already had words with TSgt Mason about that issue.

The enemy showed up as promised as we neared the coast (Zone 3). We had to deal with a pair of Fw 190s. One actually, as the P-47s of the 325h chased one off. The other, an apparent rookie, dove past us so fast he couldn’t get an accurate shot. I won’t go into details about how miserably we did. There was also a lone Me 109 with whom we did marginally better. At least we hit him, though not enough to send him down in flames.

While others had their approach to the target (Zone 4) contested. No EA bothered us. The same with the Flak. Despite being unmolested on target ingress, 2LT Martell completely missed the target. We had no enemy encounters on target egress, or the rest of the flight back to Giulia.

The only damage sustained was the faulty elevator controls. The Lady should be ready to fly again tomorrow. If there isn’t a mission, the crew will be conducting drills.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 12 Jan 44
MISSION NBR. 2/This Bomber 2
TARGET: Pisa, Italy - Marshalling Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (2) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, 22, (2) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (2) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, 27, (2) [0] #
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, 20, (2) [0] **#
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (2) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (2) [0] **
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (2) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila, (2) [0] #
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (2) [0] *
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 5=2KIA, 3 to P-38 (1 Green)
Me 109 1=1 to P-38
Me 110 6=4KIA, 2 to P-38 (1 Ace, 2 Green)
12

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison: Fw 190
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: Fw 190
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila: ½ Fw 190

Bomb Run: On Target, 60%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x2 (4), Nose Turret Power: Mechanical Failure (20)
Peckham Points: 24 Peckham Points, AC ready 13 Jan 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Uh, Cap’n, sir?” Sgt Doug Richard’s voice conveys confusion, though he’s not so confused as to forget to add ‘sir’ at the end of hius sentence as required by his RA command pilot. “I think a Fort just took over Floogie’s spot in the tail.”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Sgt!” Capt Paul Garfield fires back. “There aren’t any B17s in h 78th.”

“No. Richard’s right…sir,” Tsgt Michael Newton confirms the tail gunner’s report. “I saw her drop down from above…sir. She had the 79th’s insignia.”

“Damn bunch of reserve amateurs,” Garfleld mutters under his breath. Leave it to them to screw up this man’s Army.”

This mission was FUBAR form the get go. We lost two aircraft before even getting started, with Valkyrie never getting off the ground and Bones aborting before we were out of sight of Giulia.

As we drew nearer the front lines (Zone 2) a lone Me 109 made for us, but was driven off by the escorting P-38s. Then, as we approached the coast (Zone 3) our fighter escort started to thin out.

Over the Tyrrhenian Sea (Zone 4) the boys from the 1st FG chased away an Fw 190. Flat Foot Floogie, flying tail, reported they were aborting. To my surprise, though I suppose I shouldn’t be considering most of these planes are being flown by men with no real appreciation for discipline and organization, a B17 from one of the other squadrons swooped down to take over the tail position (Zone 5).

Nearer the target (Zone 6) the Luftwaffe made another attempt at the formation, though no EA made through the formation’s fire to reach us.

The air over the target (Zone 7) was lousy with Krauts, though I understand some had it worse than us. First, Rockets were fired into the formation, one exploding off our nose. While it was unsettling, it did no appreciable damage, though I’m sure TSgt Mason will disagree. That was followed by a trio of Me 110’s. The P-38s chased one off and, our luck seeming to turn, we managed to flame the other two. This was followed by another three 110s, with similar results, though we did sustain some light damage. Flak was hardly a problem and I guess my talk with 2LT Martell after his dismal performance last mission must have worked as he managed to put 60% on target this time.

Target egress was pretty much a repeat of ingress, replacing the trios of 110s with pairs of 190s – one each wave to the 1st FG, one each wave to the Lady. After seeing the first two waves take a beating, the third wave slunk off.

Back over the Tyrrhenian Sea (Zone 6) we saw enemy fighters forming up, but none attacked us. Then Arkansas Traveler reported they were diverting to Corsica (Zone 5). A bit further on (Zone 4) we encountered another group of EA that had no stomach for the fight.

Afte that, things were uneventful until, upon our landing approach, Sgt Richard had a bit of a problem getting out of the tail turret, the power having mysteriously failed. It looks like I need to have another talk with TSgt Mason. Otherwise, both crew and plane will be ready to fly again tomorrow.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 15 Jan 44
MISSION NBR. 3/This Bomber 3
TARGET: Perugia, Italy - Airdrome
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (3) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, 22, (3) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (3) [0]
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, 27, (3) [1/3]
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, 20, (3) [2 1/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (3) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (3) [2] *
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (3) [0]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila, (3) [1/3]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (3) [1] *
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 1=1 to P-47
Me 109 5=2 KIA, 1 Damaged, 2 to P-47 (2 Green)
6

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: Instruments: Ailerons – Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 10 Peckham Points, AC ready 16 Jan 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

Almost before the props stop turning, Capt Paul Garfield is out of the bomber and very deliberately making his way toward the waiting crew chief.

“How’d it go?” TSgt James Mason asks casually, apparently not noticing that Garfield’s face is beet red.

“How’d it go, SIR!” Garfield shouts at Laid Back Lady’s Crew Chief. “And you’ll stand at attention when addressing me, SERGEANT!” The rest of Lady’s crew, disembarking, watch the exchange, as do the ground crew. “I don’t know what kind of circus you’re running here, Sergeant. But it’s going to stop right now.”

Mason starts to say something and Garfield cuts him off. “Your incompetence is placing men’s lives at risk. We experienced two systems fail today! Fortunately, the enemy didn’t bother us much and Sgt Carson was able to address the one, or we’d have had to abort almost before leaving. With today’s failures, we’ve suffered a total of four over the last three missions! Do you know what that means?”

Seeing that Garfield is actually giving him a chance to respond this time, Mason decides the wiser course of action it to remain silent.

“Then I’ll tell you,” Garfield resumes. “If it happens again, you’ll be looking for a new job.” With that, Garfield turns and stomps away.

“Looks like the Skipper’s on a rampage,” SGt Douglas Richard, the tail gunner comments.

“Aint he always?” port waist gunner, Sgt Peter Carson replies.

Voicing what they’re all thinking, radio operator, Sgt Danny Garson says, “Least it aint us, this time.”

Despite the poor weather, takeoff and assembly went well. But that luck wasn’t to last long. As we were crossing the Front (Zone 3), the control panel for the fuel transfer pump shorted. Sgt Carson had to leave the waist to try and fix it as a quartet of Me 109s swooped in for the attack. The escorting P-47s chased off two, we flamed one and sent the other one limping for home.

Surprisingly, there were no EA to greet us as we began our bomb run (Zone 5). The flak was light and inaccurate. 2LT Martel put 30% of the payload within the CEP. As briefed, there was no flak on target egress, though we did have some aerial opposition. The boys form the 325th dissuaded an Fw 190 and we put paid to an Me 109.

After that, things quieted down until, as we were making our landing approach (Zone 1)the ailerons stopped responding to the controls. Our second Mechanical failure this mission, and the fourth such failure out of the last three missions. I have put TSgt Mason on notice that a repeat of this shoddy performance will earn him a permanent reassignment as mess orderly. Even without functioning ailerons, and the rain, I managed to put the Lady down without any damage to aircraft or crew.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 20 Jan 44
MISSION NBR. 4/This Bomber 4
TARGET: Istres/Le Tube, France - Airdrome
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (4) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, 22, (4) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (4) [0] *
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, 27, (4) [1/3] #
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, 20, (4) [2 1/3] **
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (4) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (4) [3] #
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (4) [0] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila, (4) [1/3] # SW - IH
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (4) [2] *
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 12=4 KIA, 3 Damaged, 4 to Spitfire, 1 Undamaged (3 Ace, 4 Green)
Me 109 3=2 KIA, 1 to P-38 (2 Green)
Me 110 1=1 to P-47
16

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell: 1/3 Fw 190
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: ½ Fw 190. ½ Me 109
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: Me 109
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila: 1/3 Fw 190
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard: ½ Fw 190

Bomb Run: On Target, 40%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x1 (2), SW x1 (5)
Peckham Points: 7 Peckham Points, Ac ready 21 Jan 44

Casualties: Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila: SW - IH 3 Feb 44

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests: Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila: Purple Heart

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“That’s just great!” 2LT Elliot Peterson mutters as Laid Back Lady executes a series of climbing turns to reach the assembly point.

Prompted by his Co-Pilot’s comment, Capt Paul Garfield looks over to see Peterson tapping one of the gauges on the instrument panel. The manifold pressure for the #1 engine is dancing all over the place.

A moment later, both men breathe a sigh of relief as the gauge settles down on a normal operating reading.

We had a bit of a hiccup during takeoff when the #1 engine started to act up. But, it quickly resolved itself and I’m happy to say that after my heart-to-heart with TSgt Mason last mission, we didn’t experience any other mechanical issues.

I have to say that this mission was a bit more active than the previous ones. We’d barely formed up when (Zone 2) the Luftwaffe began harassing the formation. A lone Me 110 made for us, but was driven off by a couple of P-47s from the 325th. As we headed out over the Tyrrhenian Sea (Zone 3), Wood’s Chopper II, reported they were aborting.

It felt a bit exposed when our escorts left us (Zone 5). But we weren’t bothered again before we picked up the RAF Spitfires (Zone 10). As we drew nearer the French coast (Zone 11), the Luftwaffe reappeared, though no EA bothered us. Guess it must’ve been our lucky day (Random Event: Lady Luck Smiles).

Over the target (Zone 12) our luck still held, a lone Fw 190 making for us, but falling prey to our British allies. This was followed up by another wave of four more 190s. he Spits dealt with one and we flamed two others, suffering only minor damage ourselves. The flak on target ingress was inaccurate. 2LT Martell put a respectable 40% of bombs on target.

Target egress was a different story. While there was no flak to contend with, it simply meant that Jerry had more time to engage us, three waves attacking. First in was a trio of 190s. The RAF engaged one, but that was to be the last help we’d get form them for a while. We damaged another, dampening his interest. But the third made a total of three passes before paying for his persistence with his life. In return, Sgt Davilla was seriously wounded and 2LT Martell reported his gun jammed. Two FWs came in on the second wave, but only one left. Then rockets started bursting among the formation, though we avoided taking any damage.

Heading back over the Ligurian Sea (Zone 11), two Fw 190s attacked. The RAF was back in the game and chased off one while the other dove past us so fast he couldn’t get in a decent shot, a rookie move. Others didn’t fair as well, Valkyrie falling out of formation. A bit further on (Zone 10) we saw two more waves of EA forming up, but none attacked us.

As we approached Corsica (Zone 8), Bonkers fell out of formation. After that things quieted down until we were back over Italy (Zone 2). A trio of Me 109s bore in. We flamed two and a P-38 shot down the third.

The rain-slicked runway made the landing touch and go (OOC – rolled a modified 2). Sgt Davila was loaded into the ambulance as soon as we came to a stop. Reports from the hospital are that he’ll recover, but his flying days are over. We’ll need a new waist gunner.

Back at the hardstand, I commended TSgt Mason and his crew for the job they did in preparing Lady for this mission, encouraging them to keep up the good work. I privately mentioned to TSgt Mason about the little problem with the #1 engine at takeoff. He promised to look into it.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

New crewman: Right Waist Gunner Sgt Brett Hoppe beginning with Mission 5. Replaces Sgt Donald Davila, SW on mission 4 and scheduled to IH on 3 Feb 44.

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 26 Jan 44
MISSION NBR. 5/This Bomber 5
TARGET: Udine, Italy - Airdrome
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (5) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (5) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (5) [1]
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (5) [5/6] #
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (5) [4 1/3] ***####
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (5) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (5) [3 1/2] **#
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (5) [1/2] ##
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Brett Hoppe, (1) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (5) [3] *
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 9=3 KIA, 2 Damaged, 4 Undamaged (4 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 109 16=5 KIA, 4 Damaged, 5 to P-38, 2 Undamaged (2 Ace, 4 Green)
Ju 88 3=2 KIA, 1 to P-38 (1 Ace)
28

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: Fw 190, Me 109
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: Fw 190, ½ Me 109
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: ½ Fw 190
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard: Ju 88c

Bomb Run: On Target. 30%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x14 (28), Lt Elevator Inop (10), Lt Wing Root x1 (25)Hydraulic Pump: NE (5), Rt Aileron Inop (10), Hydraulic System: NE (5), Control Cables x1 (10)
Peckham Points: 78 Peckham Points, AC ready 27 Jan 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield: Air Medal
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson: Air Medal
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell: Air Medal
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison: Air Medal
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: Air Medal
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson: Air Medal
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: Air Medal
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: Air Medal
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard: Air Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila: SW - IH 3 Feb 44

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“Whooee! Will ya look at that.” Laid Back Lady’s new starboard waist gunner comments as, dismounting, he looks over the riddled bomber. “Who’d a thunk a plane could have that many bullet holes and not get hit anywhere where it counts. They all like this?” Sgt Brett Hoppe asks Sgt Peter Carson, his opposite number.

“Naw,” Carson replies. Having some fun at the new guy’s expense, he adds, “This un was an easy un.”

Hoppe whistles in amazement as the rest of the crew tries to suppress their amused smiles, all glad that, as Hoppe observed, they didn’t get hit anywhere that counted. Of course, TSgt James Mason and his crew of mechanics see it differently.

Takeoff and assembly went well, with Laid Back Lady leading the 78th in the low position. WE weren’t very far over the Adriatic (Zone 3) when it got hot real fast. We could see two waves of EA forming up, though the first one didn’t seem to want to press home the attack. Four Fw 10s and an Me 109 of the second wave had no such reservations. Our escort being busy elsewhere, we were left to deal with the threat on our own. By the time the lead stopped flying we’d downed two bandits and sent a third limping for home. While we took multiple hits, the only real damage was to the Lt wing root and elevator. Although we did have a tense moment as some enemy bullets bounced around the bombs.

A bit further on (Zone 4) we got the word that Bonkers was falling out of formation, with Louisiana Belle taking over as TEC. Then (Zone 5), the P-38s chased off a Ju 88 and an Me 109 that were headed out way.

A short while later (Zone 6) and we ran into another couple of waves of EA. As earlier, the first wave didn’t seem to have much fight in them. A trio of Me 109s from the second wave bore in on us. The boys from the 14th chased off one, and we gave the other two some pretty good reasons to reconsider their career choices.

Nearing the Italian coast (Zone 7) the sky grew lousy with German fighters. A 190 dove past us, causing some minor damage, and the Lightnings tangled with a 109. Then five 109s were on us. One fell to a P-38 and we managed to flame two others, though Sgt Richard reported that one of his guns in the tail had jammed. Despite the jammed gun, the crew was feeling pretty about how we’d faired so far (Random Event: Lady Luck Smiles).

By now (Zone 8) the pilots of the 14th were starting to feel their confidence as well (Random Event: Aggressive Little Friends), which helped keep that Luftwaffe at bay. We did have a close call as an enemy fired rocket flew right under our wing (Used the just acquired LLS to reroll a BIP result from rocket fire). Flak on ingress wasn’t much of a problem and 2LT Martell placed about 30% of payload on the airdrome.

Coming off the target, we encountered three waves of enemy fighters. First up was a quartet of Me 109s. While Jerry put a number of holes in us, the only real damage was to the Rt aileron, and the bomb bay doors which were no longer needed. In exchange the Luftwaffe lost three fighters, tow to us and one to the 14th. The next wave, a pair of Ju 88s and an Me 109, didn’t fair any better, losing two fighters. The last wave was three 190s and a 109. While one bandit managed to walk his fire the entire length of Lady, our luck still held and noting vital was hit. Jerry can’t say the same, losing tow of the FWs.

Heading back over the Adriatic (Zone 7) and we took some more rocket fire. Once again, Jerry was reluctant to press the attack, though this time it was the second wave that held back. Further on (Zone 5) we saw more EA in the distance, but not up close. That changed (Zone 4) when the Luftwaffe got a but more aggressive. But by then it was too little, too late as the EA were held at bay by the formation’s combined fire. After that, it was relatively quiet for us the rest of the way home.

While we took a lot of hits, we came through surprisingly undamaged, although TSgt Mason sees it differently. Lady will be ready to fly tomorrow and none of the men got injured.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 29 Jan 44
MISSION NBR. 6/This Bomber 6
TARGET: Ferrara, Italy - Marshalling Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Tail

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (6) [0] LW – RTD 30 Jan 44
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (6) [0] SW – RTD 6 Feb 44
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (6) [1]
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (6) [1 1/3]
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (6) [9 1/3] *#
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (6) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (6) [6] **##
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (6) [1 1/2] LW – RTD 30 Jan 44
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Brett Hoppe, (2) [0] KIA
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (6) [4] **##
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 4=2 KIA, 1 to 1st FG, 1 Undamaged (2 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 4=2 KIA, 11 to 1st FG, Damaged,(1 Ace)
Me 109 8=1 KIA, 3 to 1st FG, 2 Damaged, 2 Undamaged (3 Ace)
Ju 88 3=2 KIA, 1 to 1st FG (2 Green)
19

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: 1/3 Fw 190
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: 5/6 Ju 88

Bomb Run: On Target, 40%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x9 (18), Kia x1 (10), SW x1 (5), LW x2 (4), Lt Wing Root x2 (50), Nav Equip Inop (10), Instruments: Flaps (10), Ball Turret Power: Mechanical Failure (20)
Peckham Points: 125 Peckham Points, AC ready 31 Jan 44.

Casualties:
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield: LW RTD 30 Jan 44
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson: SW – RTD 6 Feb 44
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: LW – RTD 30 Jan 44
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Brett Hoppe: KIA

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield: Purple Heart
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson: Purple Heart
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: Purple Heart
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Brett Hoppe: Purple Heart, posthumous

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt Donald Davila: SW - IH 3 Feb 44

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

Trapped in the ball turret, which is still expended below the belly of the bombe, Sgt Hoe Blaston watches the approaching ground with a fatalistic fascination. While his body reflexively recoils when the tarmac approaches to within mere inches of his feet, Blaston’s eyes stay fixed on the scene below him, not wanting to miss a single moment of what may well be his last minutes on earth. Fortunately the big bomber’s landing gear holds and the ball turret, and Hoe, suffer no damage.

Even though we fly lead every other mission, I decided that we should take a turn as Tail-end-Charlie. This was a tough mission. While we’ve taken casualties before, this is the first time death has ridden aboard the Lady. Thankfully only one of the wounded didn’t make it.

Takeoff and assemble went well despite the steady rain over Giulia and we took up our position at the end of the middle squadron. We were opposite Arcona (Zone 4) when we had our first encounter with the Luftwaffe. A trio of 109s made for us. The boys from the 1st FG chased off two. We discouraged the third from making another pass. While we saw more EA forming up, they didn’t bother us. From this point on, the Luftwaffe was a constant presence till we’d left the targe and were headed back home.

It wasn’t long (Zone 5) before another couple of waves of enemy fighters bore in on us. First up was a pair of bombers turned fighters, Ju 88s. One fell to the p-38s and the other to us. This was followed by a lone 88 who fared no better than his predecessors. As we neared the Italian coast (Zone 6) there were more bandits. The first wave left us alone, while a single Me 109 form the second wave ran afoul of a pair of P-38s.

Target ingress (Zone 7) was a repeat of our last encounter, only in reverse order with an Me 110 standing in for the 109. The flak gunners seemed to have our number, Lady taking multiple hits. The most serious being to the left wing root. 2LT Martell put a respectable 40% on target.

Flak found us again on target egress, though the damage was minimal. Then we got hit by three Fw 190s. 1st FG eliminated one and we got the other two, though not before Jerry managed to add to the damage to the left wing root. At this point the 1st FG handed us off to the 82nd and the difference was noticeable, it was like we had not fighter support at all.

Heading back over the Adriatic (Zone 6) and we were swarmed by EA. The first wave was a lone Fw 190. Though he was marked up like an ace, he did us no harm. Of course, we didn’t do anything to him either. Next in was a trio of Me 109s. Two were marked up as aces and this time we could see why. We finally flamed one on his third pass. But, we took our lumps as well, four of us getting hit. There was no time for assessing casualties as this attack was immediately followed up by a trio of Me 110s. This time Jerry got the short end of the stick, losing two fighters and the third uncertainly limping for home.

With a short breather, I had 2LT Ellison move 2LT Peterson to the radio room. Ellison then took over as co-pilot, his navigation instruments having been destroyed in an earlier attack. Once Ellison was at the controls, I took a moment to bandage my own wounds. While this was happening, Sgt Carson reported he was injured, but able to soldier on. Not so his opposite number in the waist, Sgt Hoppe having been killed outright.

We had our last engagement where we‘d had our first, opposite Arcona (Zone 4). This was a lone Me 109, another ace. Last we saw him, Jerry was leaving an oily smoke trail.

Just before the 109 put in his appearance, Sgt Blaston reported the power had failed for the ball turret. Despite repeated attempts, we were unable to raise the turret and Sgt Blaston had to sit tight till we were once more on the ground. I have to admire his stoicism, it couldn’t have been easy watching the ground come up to meet him.

The meat wagon met us upon landing and carted 2LT Peterson off. Sgt Carson and myself could wait, and it wasn’t going to make any difference for Sgt Hoppe. Needless to say, we’ll be needing a new starboard waist gunner. TSgt Mason wasn’t very happy with the shape Lady was in, but promised to have her ready to fly again in a couple of days.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

New crewman: Right Waist Gunner Sgt John Ringle beginning with Mission 7. Replaces Sgt Brett Hoppe, KIA on mission 6.

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 7 Feb 44
MISSION NBR. 7/This Bomber 7
TARGET: Pontassive, Italy - Marshalling Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (7) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (7) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (7) [1] *
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (7) [1 1/3] #
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (7) [10 2/3] *
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (7) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (7) [8 5/6]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (7) [1 1/2] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (1) [0]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (7) [6 5/6]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 4-3 KIA, 1 to 83nd FG (1 Ace, 2 Green)

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: Me 109
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 40%

B-24 Damage: Bombs: NE (5)
Peckham Points: 5 Peckham Points, AC ready 8 Feb 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: 1st Oak Leaf to Air Medal for achieving five confirmed kills.

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

If the idea was to give the boys from the 82nd FG some practice escorting bombers, we didn’t give them much of an opportunity. Not that I’m complaining. This mission was about was close to a milk run as you could wish for. Again, no complaints.

The only action we saw was over the target (Zone 6). On ingress, we experienced a tense moment as flak shrapnel rattled around in the bomb bay. Fortunately, it didn’t hit anything vital. Then, on egress we were challenged by four Me 109s, though ‘challenged’ is a generous description, as one was chased off by the 82nd and we knocked the other three out of the sky; giving TSgt Newton his fifth confirmed kill.

As we crossed the coast (Zone 4), someone reported a strange B-17 following the formation, but he didn’t hang around long. Despite the poor weather, both takeoff and landing were uneventful.

The flak put a few holes in Lady, But TSgt Mason will have those patched up before the day is through.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 11 Feb 44
MISSION NBR. 8/This Bomber 8
TARGET: Toulon, France - Harbor Facilities
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (8) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (8) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (8) [2]
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (8) [1 5/6] #
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (8) [11 2/3] ##
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (8) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (8) [8 5/6] ##
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (8) [2] #
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (2) [0] #
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (8) [6 5/6]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 4=1 KIA, 1 Damage, 2 to Hurricane (1 Green)
Me 109 8=2 KIA, 1 Damaged, 4 to Hurricane, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace, 1 Green)
Me 110 1=1 to P-7
13

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison: 1/3 Fw 190
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: 1 1/3 Me 109
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: ½ Fw 190, ½ Me 09

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: None
Peckham Points: 0 Peckham Points, AC ready 12 Feb 44

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

Takeoff and assembly was uneventful, with things starting to heat up as we headed out over the Tyrrhenian Sea (Zone 3) when, though there were many EA in the sky, they seemed to attack in dribbles. First in was a lone Me 110 that got chased off by a pair of Jugs from the 325th. With our escort pulled away, an Me 109 gave it a go, exchanging ineffective fire with us. After that, the third wave sought out targets elsewhere, one of them being Gremlin’s Delight who aborted. Apparently Jerry did more damage as shortly afterward (Zone 4) Bonkers fell out of formation, Bit O’ Lace taking over as Tail-End-Charlie.

Things then quieted down till we drew near the French coast (Zone 10) when two waves of EA attacked. The first wave focused its attention elsewhere, but a trio of Me 109s form the second wave made for us. The RAF downed one and we flamed another while damaging the third.

The sky over Toulon (Zone 11) was teeming with Jerry aircraft. The Hurricanes drove off a pair of 109s from the first wave, as well as one from the second wave, with us downing the other. I guess that was enough to discourage the third wave. Flak was light and inaccurate, though the crew reported Fire Belle going down. Nine chutes were observed. 2 LT Martell put 30% on target.

Flak coming of the target was much lighter, as was the effort by the Luftwaffe. We faced a pair of FWs, with one falling to the RAF and us damaging the other.

Back over the Ligurian Sea (Zone 10) we had the unusual experience of being bombed, though none hit us. That was followed up by a pair of 190s. Again, the Hurricanes harried one and we downed the other. Others didn’t fair as well, Black Maria falling out of formation.

I’m not sure when it happened, but somewhere over the Tyrrhenian Sea we both Betty Anne and T-Tailed Bathtub fell out of formation.

As we approached Italy (Zone 3) no one bothered us, but Flat Foot Floogie II got hit by enemy fighters. Only 2 chutes were seen. We avoided any further entanglements and landed safely at Giulia. TSgt Mason was very pleased that we didn’t put any dings in ‘his airplane.’

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 15 Feb 44
MISSION NBR. 9/This Bomber 9
TARGET: Verona, Italy - Marshalling Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, Lead

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (9) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (9) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (9) [2]
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (9) [2 1/6]
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (9) [12 2/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (9) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (9) [9 1/3]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (9) [2 1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (3) [1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (9) [6 5/6]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 4=2 to P-47, 2 Undamaged (1 Green)
Me 109 4=2 Damaged, 2 to P-47 (1 Ace, a Green)
8

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: DNB

B-24 Damage: Superficial x1 (4), Tail Gunner Suit Heat (10), #2 Turbocharger: Mechanical Failure (25)
Peckham Points: 39 Peckham Points, AC ready 16 Feb 44

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Remember that little glitch #2 gave us on runup?" Elliot Peterson asks his pilot, Capt Pal Garfield. When Garfield grunts his acknowledgement, Peterson taps the tachometer for #2. “It’s just crapped pout on us. Looks like we’ll have to abort,” Peterson says, knowing that they can’t stay in formation with one engine out and a full bomb bay.

“Like hell! Garfield grumbles. “It’s our job to lead the entire formation to Verona, and that’s just what we’re going to do. We’re safely over the Adriatic. Martell,” Garfield calls to the bombardier over the interphone. Jettison the bombs.”

2LT Charles Martell has learned not to question his pilot’s orders and despite being over open water, opens the bomb bay doors and hits the salvo switch. As the bombs fall harmlessly to the water below, Garfield informs the rest of the group what is happening.

The runup before takeoff provide a harbinger of what was to come as the #2 engine started to act up. It settled down into a regular rhythm by the time we were at the end of the runway and I thought everything would be alright. I was wrong. About a half hour later while over the Adriatic (Zone 3) the turbocharger on #2 failed. Rather than abort, I decided to jettison our bomb load so that we could continue to lead the formation to the target.

The Gremlins weren’t done with us yet as shortly afterward (Zone 4) Sgt Blaston reported the ball turret wasn’t responding to controls. Fortunately, there was no immediate threat and TSgt Newton was bale to go back and quickly brought the turret back on line.

A bit further on (Zone5) we had our first encounter with the Luftwaffe. Two bandits, an FW and an Me 109 made for us, but both were driven off by the P-47s of the 325th.

WE experienced some light flak when crossing the coast (Zone 6). Then things picked up again on target ingress (Zone 7) when we were opposed by a 190 and tow 109s, one being an Italian ace. Our escort dissuade the 190 and one of the 109s, leaving us to tangle with the ace. After a couple of passes the Italian left trailing smoke, though not before knocking out Sgt Richard’s heat in the tail. This was followed up by a rocket barrage. Flak was thankfully inaccurate though, with no bombs on board, 2LT Martell had nothing to drop. Flak on egress was light and inaccurate, and there were no enemy fighters waiting for us.

Heading back out over the Adriatic, (Zone 6), TSgt Newton reported seeing a rainbow in some distant clouds, which he claimed was a sign of luck (random event: Lady Luck Smiles). This, despite our multiple mechanical issues to this point. We didn’t have long to ponder this omen as a pair of 190s and a 109 bore in on us, our Little Friends being otherwise occupied. Perhaps TSgt Newton was correct as none of the bandits score any hits.

The rest of the mission was uneventful as was the landing back at Giulia.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 17 Feb 44
MISSION NBR. 10/This Bomber 10
TARGET: Anzio Beachhead - German Supply Dumps
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Middle

Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (10) [0]
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (10) [0]
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (10) [2]
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (10) [2 1/6]
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (10) [12 2/3]
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (10) [0]
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (10) [9 1/3]
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (10) [2 1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (4) [1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (10) [6 5/6]
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Me 109 3=3 to P-38
G55 1=1 to P-38

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On Target, 20%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x 3 (6)
Peckham Points: 6 Peckham Points, AC ready 18 Feb 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard: Air Medal 1st Oak Leaf

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“There goes Jersey Bounce!” Sgt Peter Carson calls over the interphone. Not aware he still as the mike keyed, Carson’s frantic, “Come on! Come on!” echoes in the ears of the rest of Laid Back Lady’s crew. Fortunately it is quickly followed by his count of, “One…two…three…” until all ten chuteare reported.

Almost immediately afterward, Carson’s partner in the waist, Sgt John Ringle announces, “Bit O’ Lace is falling out of formation.”

While some had a rough go of it this mission, it proved to be a relative milk run for us. The clear skies over Giulia made takeoff and assembly easy. And, while we ran into the enemy shortly thereafter (Zone 2), no EA reached us. They did however manage to disrupt the formation. It wouldn’t be until target egress that the 78th tightened things back up.

Target ingress (Zone 3) wasn’t as difficult as expected, only two Me 109s opposing us. Both were driven off the Lightnings of the 1st FG. Flak was heavy, but not particularly accurate, Lady suffering only superficial damage. Still, the bouncing around was enough to throw 2LT Martell’s aim off. Estimate only 20% effect on target.

We got hit again by flak on target egress. Though again the damage was minor. This was followed up with another pair of bandits, an Me 109 and a G55. Both driven off by the p-38s. Others weren’t so lucky; Bit O’ Lace falling out of formation and Jersey Bounce going down. The crew counted ten chutes from the latter. This was to be our last enemy encounter for the mission, ending with a textbook landing at Giulia.

Both Lady and her crew will be ready to fly again tomorrow.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 22 Feb 44
MISSION NBR. 11/This Bomber 11
TARGET: Regensburg, Germany - Prufening Aircraft Factory
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Lead


Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (11) [0] LC
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (11) [0] LC
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (11) [2] LC *###
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (11) [2 1/6] LC #
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (11) [12 2/3] LC **####
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (11) [0] LC
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (11) [9 1/3] LC ##
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (11) [2 1/3] LC LW – RTD 23 Feb 44
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (5) [1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (11) [6 5/6] LC *##
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 12=3 Damaged, 6 to P-38, 2 to P-47, 1 Undamaged (1 Ace)
Me 109 17=8 KIA, 1 Damaged, 6 to P-38, 1 to P-47, 1 Undamaged (5 ace, 3 Green)
Me 110 3=2 KIA, 1 to P-38
Ju 88 2=2 to P-38
34

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell: ½ Me 109, 1/3 Me 110
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison: Me 109
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: 3 Me 109, ½ Me 110
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: Me 110, ½ Me 109
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard: <e 110, Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x5 (10), LW x1 (5), Nose Wheel (25), O2 System: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 50 Peckham Points, AC ready 24 Feb 44.

Casualties: Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (11) [2 1/3] LC LW – RTD 23 Feb 44

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: Air Medal 3rd OLC for achieving confirmed Double Ace status
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston: Air Medal 2nd OLC for achieving confirmed Ace status
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson: Purple Hear 1st OLC
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle: Air Medal

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“I’m hit! I’m hit!” Sgt Peter Carson cries out, his hand going to his head. Pulling it away, his glove is covered in blood and he can feel more of the warm liquid running down his cold forehead. “I’m Done for!”

Turning to face his mate in the waist, Sgt John Ringle says, “It’s just a graze. You’ll live.”

“But all the blood,” Carson protests, though he admits he doesn’t exactly feel like he’s at death’s door.

“Head wounds always bleed excessively,” Ringle reassures Carson.

Realizing he’s not about to drop, Carson feels a bit sheepish about his outburst. “You’re right. Lets get some Krauts,” he says, hoping his show of bravado makes up for his earlier panic.

Takeoff and assembly went well and we took up our position as lead bomber of the low squadron. Despite the warning of possible earlier engagement by the Luftwaffe, our first encounter with EA was as we crossed the Italian coast (Zone 7). A pair of FWs and an Me 109 bore in us only to get tangled up with the Lightnings of the 82nd instead.

Heading further inland (Zone 8) things got more intense, two waves of enemy fighters challenging our progress. The first wave consisted of three twin-engine Me 110s and another 109. Two bandits fell to the P-38s, and we shot down the other two. Having ben drawn off by the first wave, there were fewer Little Friends to help with the second wave. The Lightnings chased off one FW, leaving three more, and a 109, for us to deal with. We hit all four, flaming one And sending another off trailing thick oily smoke.

We went over the Alps (Zone 9) and then into Germany itself (Zone 10). It was briefed that the Lightnings would have problems past the Alps, but you couldn’t prove it by me. They drove off the two attacking EA in the first wave, a Ju 88 and an Me 109, although we did have the unnerving experience of being bombed ourselves. The P-38s engaged a 109 in the second wave, leaving u
S to contend with an FW diving on us. While neither side hit, TSgt Newton said he though the 190’s tail was decorated with kill marks. The third wave was a repeat of the first except that this time we downed the 109. Once again the bombs missed us.

There was brief lull (Zone 11) and then it was on to the target (Zone 12). We faced surprisingly little opposition on target ingress, a pair of Me 109s. Guess Jerry must have been busy harassing other bombers. The boys from the 82nd claimed one kill and we got the other. Flak was heavy and we took some minor damage, but came through OK overall. 2LT Martell out about a third of our bombs on target.

Flak on target egress was minimal, but coming out of it we ran into the proverbial hornet’s nest. We were greeted by three 190s and a 109. The P-38s chased off three and we flamed the fourth. Despite all the bandits, it seemed Jerry was having a hard time coordinating his efforts (OOC – Random Event: Bad Luftwaffe Comms). The last, but most effective wave, had five 109s, including an ace. While we ended up claiming tow kills, Jerry got his licks in too. I’m told Sgt Carson had quite the injury, at least to his pride (OOC – used a LC to reroll a KIA toa LW). And, as we learned on landing, the nose wheel was also damaged. Heading back home (Zone 11) we saw some EA forming up, but none bothered us.

As we approached the Italian coast we once more found ourselves being bombed. Thankfully Jerry’s aim was worse than our and we took no damage. Over the Adriatic (Zone 6) we encountered a pair of Me 109s. By now the 82nd was starting to show the stain and we had to contend with the bandits ourselves, flaming both. Shortly afterward (Zone 5) the 82nd handed us over to the 325th. The Jugs got their chance as we passed near the Front Line trace, the P-47s downing two FWs and a 109.

As we began our landing approach (Zone 1) TSgt Newton reported that the O2 system was on the fritz. At least till waited till we didn’t need it. Upon landing, we learned about the damaged nose wheel, though it didn’t create too much of a problem. More an issue for TSgt Mason as he says it’ll add a day to repair time. Lady should be ready by the 24th. As for Sgt Carson’s injury, Doc put in a few stitches and returned him to flying duty.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 7 Mar 44
MISSION NBR. 12/This Bomber 12
TARGET: Certaldo, Italy - Marshalling Yard
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Middle Squadron, TEC


Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (12) [0] LC
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (12) [0] LC
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (12) [4 1/2] LC LW – RTD 8 Mar 44
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (12) [2 2/3] LC SW – RTD 14 Mar 44
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (12) [16 2/3] LC **
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (12) [0] LC
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (12) [10 1/3] LC
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (12) [2 1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (6) [1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (12) [8 5/6] LC
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
Fw 190 3=2 KIA, 1 to P-47 (1 Ace)
Me 109 1=1 to P-47
4

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
None

Bomb Run: On target, 52%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x1 (2), LW x1 (2), SW x1 (5), Rt Wing Flap Inop (10), Instruments: Elevators (10)
Peckham Points: 29 Peckham Points, AC ready 8 Mar 44.

Casualties:
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell: LW – RTD 8 Mar 44
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison: SW – RTD 14 Mar 44

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests:
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell: Purple Heart
Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison: Purple Heart

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Holy Sh—” 2LT Elliott Peterson swears as he watches the bullets form the 190 tear through the nose section.

Getting on the interphone, Capt Paul Garfield asks, “You guys in the nose OK?”

A tense moment passes before 2LT Charles Martell’s voice comes back. “I’m hit. Not bad. Bruce’s hurt though. I’ve patched him up best I can, but he’ll need the meat wagon when we get back.”

“Alright. Hang in there and let me know if the situation changes,” Garfield tells the bombardier.

“Roger that.”

Takeoff and assembly went well despite the ‘sunny Italian weather.’ And we took up the tail position for the 78th. As briefed, we did encounter some resistance as we neared Ascoli Pireno (Zone 4). The boys from the 325th made short work of the lone Me 109 that tried for us.

While there were several waves of EA over the target (Zone 6), the first never made it through the fire form the rest of the formation and I guess their failure discouraged the second wave. Though the flak was light, at least one shell had our number, knocking out the starboard flaps and control of the elevators. Even so, 2LT Martell managed to put about 50% of bombs onto the marshalling yard. The Krauts left us alone on target egress.

Back by Ascoli Pireno (Zone 4) we ran into a trio of 190s. The P-47s engaged one and TSgt Newton flamed the other two, including an ace, though the Review Board isn’t crediting him with either. Unfortunately, TSgt Newton’s downing of the Ace didn’t happen till after Jerry short up the nose, injuring both LTs Martell and Ellison. While 2LT Martell was able to soldier on, Ellison’s injuries were more serious.

Arriving back at Giulia, the rain-slicked runway and lack of elevator control made the landing challenging, but not too much so.

While 2LT Ellison’s injury is serious, not so much as it originally appeared. Doc says he’ll spend about a week harassing the nurses and then return to flying duty. TSgt Mason says he and his crew will have Lady back in flying condition by tomorrow.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 11 Mar 44
MISSION NBR. 13/This Bomber 13
TARGET: Toulon, France - Submarine Repair Facilities
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: High Squadron, Lead


Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (13) [0] LC
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (13) [0] LC
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (13) [4 1/2]
Navigator: 2LT Rodney (Rod) Towsley (Temp) (6) [0] *
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (13) [18 2/3] LC *
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (13) [0] LC
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (13) [10 1/3] LC
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (13) [2 1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (7) [1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (13) [8 5/6] LC **
* = 1 Kill This Mission
# = Shared Kill This Mission

Fighters Encountered:
FW 190 5=1 Damaged, 3 to Hurricane, 1 Undamaged,(1 Ace, 2 Green)
Me 410 1=1 KIA (1 Ace)
Me 110 1=1 KIA
Me 109 8=2 KIA, 2 Damaged, 2 to P-38, 1 to P-47, 1 Undamaged (2 Green)
15

Claims: Only credited kills reported here
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton: Me 410
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard: Me 109

Bomb Run: On Target, 30%

B-24 Damage: Superficial x4 (8), Intercom: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 18 Peckham Points, AC ready 12 Mar 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (12) [2 2/3] SW – RTD 14 Mar 44

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)

“Whoa!” 2LT Charlie Martell’s aim is thrown off as he reflexively flinches in reaction to the German fighter almost colliding head-on with his position in the nose of the bomber. Unawae that the intercom has just failed, he tries to warn his crewmates, “Watch out for the crazy Kraut that just flew under us! I think he may be suicidal.”

Could be Martell’s assessment of the German pilot is correct. Or, it could be that the pilot hopes to avoid getting caught by the tail guns by hugging the big bomber as he passes underneath. If the latter is his goal, he fails. Sgt Doug Richard’s quick reflexes enable him to get off a shot as the Me 109 pops into view. While he doesn’t down the bandit, the fighter does leave trailing thick oily smoke.

With Lady leading the Squadron and 2LT Ellison still recovering from the last mission, I secured pone of the more experienced navigators from the spare pool, 2LT Towsley. With out new navigator on board, we took up our position in the lead.

As we headed out over the Tyrrhenian Sea (Zone 3) we encountered a pair of Me 109s. The boys form the 1st FG made short work of that problem.

The next action we saw was on target ingress (Zone 11). Jerry seemed to be having problems and the first wave of EA never made it to us. (OOC – I seem to have the disturbing habit of rolling ‘None’ for the first wave of a multi-wave attack, essentially soaking off my maximum fighter support.) A pair of 190s, an Me 410, and a 109 did. The RAF chased off one of the FW’s leaving us to deal with the other three bandits, including two aces. We hit all three attacking fighters, downing the 410. While several of the bandits hit us, it turned out to be minor damage. Then another FW and three more 109s came in. The Hurricanes engaged the 190. We downed one of the 109s and sent another limping for home. Flak was thankfully inaccurate and 2LT Martell managed to put 30% on target.

Flak on target egress was minimal. Once again, Jerry seemed to be having problems getting his act together (OOC – Random Event: Bad Luftwaffe Comms; and once again soaking off my maximum fighter support). Eventually a pair of bandits did make for us, an Fw 190 and an Me 109. The FW fell to the RAF and we flamed the 109.

Off the French coast (Zone 10) the intercom in conveniently failed just before an Fw and a 109 bore in. The RAF got the 190 and despite the poor internal comms we sent the 109 off trialing smoke. WE subsequently learned form 2LT Martell that the 109 nearly collided with us. While another wave of EA formed up, they didn’t have the stomach to press the attack.

Near home (Zone 2) we had our last encounter of the mission; an Me 110 and a 109. The p-47s chased off the twin-engine fighter and we blew the 109 out of the sky. After that it was back to Giulia and a smooth landing.

Depending upon when the next mission is, we may be keeping 2LT Towsley, 2LT Ellison is off flying duty another three days. I’ve instructed TSgt Mason to go over the intercom system. Don’t need it crapping out just as we’re facing a wave of EA.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron

[crushedhat]

B24D: Laid Back Lady LLS LLS
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield
Squadron: 78th (H) Bomb Squadron, 509th (H) Bombardment Group
MISSION DATE: 15 Mar 44
MISSION NBR. 14/This Bomber 14
TARGET: Steyr, Austria - Welzergenswerk Ball Bearing Plant
SECONDARY TARGET:
POSITION: Low Squadron, Middle


Crew
Position – Rank (Current Mission) [Previous Kills]
Pilot: Capt Paul Garfield, (14) [0] LC
Co-Pilot: 2LT Elliott Peterson, (14) [0] LC
Bombardier: 2LT Charles (Charlie) Martell, (14) [4 1/2]
Navigator: Navigator: 2LT Bruce Ellison, (13) [2 2/3]
Engineer: TSgt Michael Newton, (14) [18 2/3] LC
Radio Operator: Sgt Daniel (Danny) Garson, (14) [0] LC
Ball Turret Gunner: Sgt Joseph (Joe) Blaston, (14) [10 1/3] LC
Port Waist Gunner: Sgt Peter Carson, (14) [2 1/3]
Starboard Waist Gunner: Sgt John Ringle, (8) [1/2]
Tail Gunner: Sgt Douglas (Doug), Richard, (14) [10 5/6] 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: #4 Engine Fire: Mechanical Failure (25+25, 1sr Ext+50, 2nd Ext), Suit Heat System Inop: Mechanical Failure (10)
Peckham Points: 110 Peckham Points, AC ready 17 Mar 44.

Casualties: None

Landing: AC and crew safe at Giulia

Awards/Promotion Requests: None

Sitting Out: None

In Hospital: None

Completed 25 Missions: None

After Action Report: (Flown using TFT)
“FIRE!” The shouted alarm roars out over the intercom. “#4 engine!” Sgt John Ringle warns the rest of the crew as Laid Back Lady begins the slow process of spiraling up to altitude.

“Whadda we do, Cap’n?” 2LT Elliott Peterson asks, knowing that his AC, Capt Paul Garfield doesn’t like the informality of being called, ‘Skipper.’

“Hope the automatic extinguishers work,” is Garfield’s steady reply. Fortunately, it does, though not until the second attempt.

“Guess we won’t be going on this one,” Garfield says, more than a hint of disappointment in his voice, knowing there is no way they can carry their bombs to the target and stay with the formation with an engine out. “We’re not leading this time.” Over the intercom he says, “Brace yourselves, everybody, We’re going to try landing with an engine out, a full bomb load, and uncooperative weather. “We’ll have to circle till the rest of the formation is up in the air,” Garfield tells his co-pilot.

Turns out the lousy weather over Guilia was the least of our worries. The #4 engine started acting up on takeoff and then, while circling to form up it burst into flames. While the automatic extinguishers worked, there were a few tense moments before that became clear. (OOC - Got through the second extinguisher roll, luckily it was ‘Fire Extinguished’ rather than ‘Spreads to Wing.’) With a full bomb load we wouldn’t be able to stay in formation. And, since we weren’t lead AC, I decided not to jettison them to stay with the Group. Not that there was anywhere we could jettison them over Giulia.

The decision being made, we circled well clear of the assembly area until the last plane was up in the air before trying to land. Landing was a bit tricky. With one engine out and a full bomb load, Lady was a bit sluggish and slow to respond to the controls. A situation made worse by the constant drizzle turning the tarmac into the perfect surface for hydroplaning. Still, we managed it. (OOC – modified 1 for the landing roll.) Turns out we would have had to abort anyway once we reached altitude. TSgt Mason says that the Suit Heat System was also on the fritz (OOC – Mechanical Failure rolled while waiting to land). Seems that the Gremlins, or more likely lax maintenance procedures, are more of a threat than the Luftwaffe.

Paul Garfield, Capt USAAF, commanding
B24D Laid Back Lady
78th (H) Bomb Squadron