COMBAT CHRONOLOGY OF THE US ARMY AIR FORCES
MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS
AUGUST 1942 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
SATURDAY, 1 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
During the night of 1/2 Aug, B-24s hit a convoy in the Mediterranean,
scoring 3 direct hits on a large merchant ship which the last aircraft reports
sinking; 1 B-24 is lost in crashlanding at base.
SUNDAY, 2 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
82d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium), arrives
at Deversoir, Egypt from the US with B-25s; first mission is 16 Aug.
TUESDAY, 4 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-24s strike a convoy in the Mediterranean during the night of 4/5 Aug,
claiming hits on 2 merchant ships.
WEDNESDAY, 5 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
Lieutenant General Lewis H Brereton, in his first strategic estimate of the
Middle Eastern war, indicates that the 3 major objectives for the Allied Air
Forces are to assist in the destruction of General Erwin Rommel's Afrika Korps
by support to ground troops, secure sea and air communications on and over the
Mediterranean, and carry out a sustained air offensive against Italy and
against oil installations at Ploesti, Rumania and in the Caucasus, if the
latter should fall under Axis control.
Unit moves: 65th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group, from Muqueibile,
Palestine to Cyprus with P-40s; 345th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy) arrives at
Ramat David, Palestine from the US with B-24s; first mission is 12 Aug.
THURSDAY, 6 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-24s hit the harbor at Tobruk, Libya.
WEDNESDAY, 1 SEPTEMBER 1943
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
Colonel Harry A Halverson relinquishes command of Hal Bombardment Squadron,
to be succeeded by Lieutenant Colonel George F McGuire.
343d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy), arrives
at Ramat David, Palestine from the US with B-24s; first mission is in Aug.
THURSDAY, 13 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
83d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium), arrives
at Ismailia, Egypt from the US with B-25s; first mission is 16 Aug.
FRIDAY, 14 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-24s bomb the harbor at Tobruk, Libya during the night of 14/15 Aug.
434th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium),
arrives at Ismailia, Egypt from the US with B-25s; first mission is 28 Aug.
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
Personnel strength is greatly increased and supply and maintenance prospects
are much improved by the arrival of ground echelons of the 57th Fighter Group,
12th Bombardment Group (Medium), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and 323d
Service Group.
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-25s of the 81st Bombardment Squadron (Medium) hit stores, depot and tank
repair shops at Matruh, Egypt. This marks the debut of the B-25s of the 12th
Bombardment Group (Medium) in the Middle East.
WEDNESDAY, 19 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
64th and 66th Fighter Squadrons, 57th Fighter Group, arrive at Muqueibile
and Beit Daras, Palestine respectively from the US with P-40s; first mission is
7 Oct.
FRIDAY, 21 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-24s from 2 squadrons hit a convoy SW of Crete, claiming 2 ships probably
sunk; fighters attack a straggling B-24 and force it to crashland at sea.
343d and 344th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group
(Heavy), move from David to St Jean, Palestine with B-24s.
SATURDAY, 22 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-25s hit a tank and motor repair shop and storage dumps at Matruh, Egypt; a
B-25 is mistakenly shot down by an RAF Beaufighter.
MONDAY 24 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-24s attack Tobruk, Libya harbor.
TUESDAY, 25 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-25s bomb shipping and landing grounds. B-24s attack Corinth Canal, Greece.
THURSDAY, 27 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-24s bomb a convoy, hitting 1 merchant ship which is reported sinking.
FRIDAY, 28 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
2 B-24 squadrons bomb docks, shipping and jetties in Tobruk, Libya harbor.
SATURDAY, 29 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-24s fail to locate shipping near Crete and return without bombing. B-25s
bomb a landing ground during the night of 29/30 Aug.
65th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group, moves from Cyprus to Muqueibile,
Palestine with P-40s; first mission is 7 Oct.
SUNDAY, 30 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-24s bomb docks and jetties in Tobruk, Libya harbor.
MONDAY 31 AUGUST 1942
MTO, US Army, Middle East Air Force (USAMEAF):
B-25s attack aircraft on a landing ground, and B-24s raid the harbor at
Tobruk, Libya. P-40s of the 66th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group, escort
RAF bombers during raid on Maryut, Egypt. B-25s, in conjunction with RAF
Bostons, attack troop concentrations and military vehicles as the battle of
Alam-el-Halfa begins along the El Alamein line.
COMBAT CHRONOLOGY OF THE US ARMY AIR FORCES
MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS
August 1942
AUGUST 1943 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
SUNDAY, 1 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Rumania, 177 B-24's, of the IX Bomber Command (including B-24's on loan
from the Eighth Air Force) are dispatched to bomb oil refineries at Ploesti and
nearby Campina. The oper- ation (TIDALWAVE) is costly, 54 planes and 532 airmen
are lost, but damage to the targets is severe. 5 Medal of Honors are awarded
for this mission.
In Sicily, 230+ P-40's, the largest Ninth Air Force total to date, attack
Adrano, the area near Randazzo, Messina, Milazzo, Taormina, and shipping in the
Straits of Messina.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 31 Jul/l Aug Northwest African Strategic Air Force
(NASAF) Wellingtons drop leaflets on Rome and Naples, Italy, and bomb Randazzo
and Adrano, Sicily. During the following day, B-17's bomb Capodichino Airfield,
Italy, and B-25's hit Milazzo, Sicily. In Sicily, Northwest African Tactical
Air Force (NATAF) light and medium bombers hit Paterno, Randazzo, Adrano,
Bronte, Santa Maria di Licondia, and motor transport in the Orlandoarea area.
Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) Beaufighters score hits on shipping
between Sardinia and Italy.
On the ground in Sicily, US ground forces advance E along the coast,
approach Troina further inland, and begin a movement to flank defenses. The
British, to the S, penetrate into Regalbuto.
During the month of August, the 3d Air Defense Wing (64th Fighter Wing
effective 7 Aug 43) transfers from Licata to Gela, Sicily.
HQ 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy) transfers from Chateau-dun-du-Rhumel,
Algeria to Pont-du-Fahs, Tunisia.
The 2d, 4th and 5th Fighter Squadrons, 52d Fighter Group transfer from La
Sebala, Tunisia to Boccadifalco, Sicily with Spitfires.
The 307th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, transfers from Palermo to
Termini, Sicily with Spitfires.
The 429th Bombarmdent Squadron (Heavy), 2d Bombardment Group (Heavy),
transfers from Ain M'lila, Algeria to Massicault, Tunisia with B-17's.
MONDAY, 2 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, P-40's attack ship- ping in the Straits of Messina and off
Milazzo.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, North- west African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, and
light and medium bombers hit trucks, a dump and road junction in NE Sicily,
docks and ship- ping at Milazzo, Messina and in the Reggio di Calabria, Italy
area, and targets of opportunity (mainly motor transport) from Barcellona S to
Adrano.
On the ground in Sicily, US ground forces push slowly W while British troops
gain control of Regalbuto and fight indecisively in the streets of Centuripe.
HQ 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 81st, 82d, 83d and 434th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-25's transfer from Hergla, Tunisia to
Ponte Olivio, Sicily.
HQ 31st Fighter Group transfers from Agrigento to Termini, Sicily.
HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 488th and 489th Bombardment
Squadrons (Medium) transfer from Hergla, Tunisia to Comiso, Sicily with B-25's.
The 308th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group transfers from Agrigento to
Termini, Sicily with Spitfires.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-25's bomb Adrano and its highway approaches; and 300+ P-40's,
the largest Ninth Air Force total to date, attack harbors and shipping at
Milazzo and Messina, and give direct support to British ground forces in the
Catania-Bronte area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, North- west African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light bombers hit
tactical targets; and fighters, light and medium bombers hit shipping in the
Straits of Messina and at Milazzo and attack Adrano and Biancavilla and gun
emplace- ments and bridges in the area.
On the ground in Sicily, US forces continue E along the N coast toward the
Furiano River. At Troina, further inland, the enemy continues firm resistance.
HQ 82d Fighter Group transfers from Souk-el-Arba, Algeria to Grombalia,
Tunisia.
The 414th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy),
transfers with B-17's from Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to Pont-du-Fahs,
Tunisia.
The 486th and 487th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 340th Bombardment Group
(Medium), transfer with B-25's from Hergla, Tunisia to Comiso, Sicily.
WEDNESDAY, 4 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, P-40's attack ship- ping at Messina and support ground forces at
the N end of Mount Etna.
On the ground in Sicily, US troops are halted by fierce opposition at the
Furiano River and at Troina.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb the
submarine base at Naples; B-26's and B-25's hit the railroad bridge at
Cantanzaro and rail- road at Paola. In Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) medium and light bombers, and fighters attack communications
targets, gun positions, and storage areas in the Milazzo-Adrano-Biancavilla and
Bronte- Riposto-Fiumefreddo areas. A number of NATAF aircraft hit rail sidings
on the toe of Italy and attack shipping off Messina, Sicily.
On the ground in Sicily, the British cross the Salso River with 2 divisions,
while other forces prepare to drive on Catania and others continue toward
Misterbianco.
HQ 99th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 347th and 348th Bombardment
Squadrons (Heavy) transfer with B-17's from Navarin, Algeria to Oudna, Tunisia.
The 95th, 96th and 97th Fighter Squadrons, 82d Fighter Group, transfer from
Souk-el-Arba, Algeria to Grombalia, Tunisia with P-38's.
THURSDAY, 5 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-25's bomb the town, roads, and road junctions of Francavilla
and shipping in the Straits of Messina.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and light
and medium bombers attack troops, roads, and gun positions at Adrano and Troina
and surround- ing areas in support of Allied ground forces, hit motor transport
behind enemy lines in Sicily and on the toe of Italy, and sink or damage over
20 small vessels and barges at Milazzo and in the Straits of Messina; and
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's, operating in 2 forces,
hit the docks and railroad yards at Messina. B-25's bomb a switching station at
Guspini, Sardinia, and P-40's, after escorting the B-25's, attack and probably
sink a U-boat off SW Sardinia.
On the ground in Sicily, US forces open an assault on the San Fratello
ridge, and further inland gain positions overlooking Troina. The enemy
withdraws from the town during the night. The British 13 Corps overruns
Paterno, Misterbianco, and Catania; the British 30 Corps continues toward
Adrano.
HQ 310th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 379th, 380th, 381st and 428th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfer with B-25's from Dar el Koudia to
Menzel Temime, Tunisia.
The 91st Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group, transfers with P-39's from
Sfax to Sidi Ahmed, Tunisia.
The 309th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, transfers with Spitfires
from Agrigento to Termini, Sicily.
The 346th and 416th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 99th Bombardment Group
(Heavy), transfer from Navarin, Algeria to Oudna, Tunisia with B-17's.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, 60+ B-26's hit Bronte, Catania, and Randazzo and the area N of
the Adrano-Biancavilla road; 20+ others bomb road intersections in Adrano and
Bronte; and 100+ P-40's attack shipping and shore targets in the Messina area
while 30 others attack shipping on the W coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb coastal
roads near Messina; B-26's and B-25's hit a road junction SW of Badiazza and
railroad bridges N of Gesso; Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light
and medium bombers hit roads, junctions, and buildings in the Troina, Adrano,
Bianca- villa, Tortorici, Bronte, Piranino, and Randazzo areas and the Bagnara,
Italy area; and fighter-bombers hit shipping from Vibo Valentia S to the
Straits of Messina.
On the ground in Sicily, US troops are unable to cross the Furiano River as
fierce resistance continues. At Troina, troops push through the town and 1 mile
(1.6 km) to the E before opposition halts them. The British take Biancavilla,
and Adrano falls as the enemy pulls out during the night of 6/7 Aug.
HQ 301st Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 32d, 353d and 419th Bombard-
ment Squadrons (Heavy) transfer with B-17's from St-Donat, Algeria to Oudna,
Tunisia.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, 150 B-25's attack Randazzo; and 140+ P-40's attack shipping at
Messina and in the Straits, and shipping and shore-supply stores along the NE
coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily throughout the day Northwest African Tactical Bomber Force (NATBF)
medium and light bombers pound Randazzo, the enemy's key withdrawal point;
Maletto is also bombed; P-40's and A-36's strafe and bomb small craft between
Sicily and mainland Italy, motor transport near Randazzo, a warehouse N of
Messina, dumps on the toe of Italy, and vehicles and communications targets in
the Sant' Agata di Militello, Bronte, Cesaro, Tortorici, Castiglione di Sicilia
and Riposto areas. In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
B-25's in 2 forces hit the landing ground at Crotone while B-26's bomb the
railroad bridge at Marina di Cantanzaro and highway bridge over the Angi- tola
River.
On the ground in Sicily, US forces improve their positions on the N coast in
the San Fratello region against heavy resistance. During the night of 7/8 Aug,
a small amphibious force lands on the coast 2 miles (3.2 km) E of Sant' Agata
di Militello, greatly aiding progress along the coast. Other forces begin a
drive on Randazzo.
HQ 5th Bombardment Wing transfers from Chateaudun, Algeria to Depienne,
Tunisia.
HQ 47th Bombardment Wing (Medium) transfers from Souk-el-Arba to Hamma- met,
Tunisia.
SUNDAY, 8 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, 90+ B-25's bomb the Randazzo area; 130+ P-40's hit shipping at
Messina and provide ground support in NE Sicily as US and British forces push E
and N, capturing Sant' Agata di Militello, Monte Camolato, and Bronte.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's hit highway and rail
bridges at Angi- tola, Italy, while P-38's strafe trains and other targets of
opportunity SW of the town. In Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) light and medium bombers pound Randazzo; fighters hit road targets N of
Etna, shipping in the Straits of Messina and cover ground forces at Sant' Agata
di Militello.
HQ 63d Fighter Wing transfers from Maison Blanche to Rerhaia, Algeria.
HQ 321st Bombardment Group (Medium) transfers from Souk-el-Arba to Soli-
man, Tunisia.
The 352d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 301st Bombardment Group (Heavy),
transfers with B-17's from St-Donat, Algeria to Oudna, Tunisia.
The 416th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force, arrives at Algiers,
Algeria from England where it trained with Beaufighters.
The 417th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force, arrives at Tafara- oui,
Algeria from England where it trained with Beaufighters. The squadron flies
it's first combat mission today.
The 445th, 447th and 448th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 321st Bombard-
ment Group (Medium), transfer with B-25's from Souk-el-Arba to Soliman,
Tunisia
MONDAY, 9 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-25's hit Divieto and a nearby tunnel W of Spadafora San
Martino, and attack special points in the battle area of NE Sicily; P-40's hit
shipping at Messina, Milazzo, and Palmi.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb crossroads N of
Messina, Sicily. In Itlay, B-25's hit Cantanzaro and Soverato River bridges,
B-26's attack Angitola River bridges, P-40's sweep over S Sardinia, and P-38's
hit a lighthouse and other targets of opportunity in S Italy. In Sicily, North-
west African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) bombers hit the Gesso road junc- tion;
fighters concentrate on highways and junctions and also hit rall sidings and
gun positions in areas around Linguaglossa, Floresta, Falcone, Patti, Orlando,
Novara di Sicilia, and Milazzo.
On the ground in Sicily, US troops reach Torrenuovo, and, to the S, drive
the enemy back to the Simeto River between Cesaro and Randazzo.
HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) transfers from Malta to Torrente Comu-
nelli, Sicily.
The 446th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 321st Bombardment Group (Medium),
transfers with B-25's from Souk-el-Arba to Soliman, Tunisia.
TUESDAY, 10 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-25's attack Randazzo, Sicily while P-40's bomb and strafe shipping on the
SW coast of Italy and in the Straits of Messina.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Brigadier General Ray A Dunn takes command of the Northwest African Air
Force Troop Carrier Command (Provisional). In Italy, Northwest African
Strategic Air Force (NASAF) P-38's bomb and strafe communications targets on
the toe of Italy; and bridges at Angitola and N of Locri are attacked.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) planes fly anti-shipping sweeps
over coastal areas of NE Sicily and the Straits of Messina, carry out armored
reconnais- sance over the battle areas and toe of Italy, and bomb Randazzo,
Sicily.
On the ground in Sicily, US Seventh Army forces pursue the enemy to a point
W of Naso near the N coast. During the night of 10/11 Aug, the US 3d Infantry
Division makes an amphibious landing on the coast, outflanking the enemy E of
Capo d'Orlando. The US 9th Infantry Division reaches a point N of Bronte.
HQ Twelfth Air Force transfers from Algeria to Tunisia.
HQ 81st Fighter Group transfers from Monastir to Sidi Ahmed, Tunisia.
The 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light),
transfers from Malta to Torrente Comunelli, Sicily with A-20's.
The 342d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy),
transfers from Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to Pont-du-Fahs, Tunisia with
B-17's.
WEDNESDAY, 11 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, 90+ B-25's bomb a bridge, roads, railway, and the city area in
and about Randazzo. About 170 P-40's hit Randazzo, shipping at Milazzo and
Messina, roads and trains near Messina, and troop movements and evacuations in
NE Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, the North- west African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) again hits
communications targets on the toe of Italy; B-17's hit the marshalling yard at
Terni, B-25's bomb the Angitola River bridges and B-26's and P-38's attack a
bridge at Cantan- zaro. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
fighter-bombers support the US Seventh Army's landing E of Orlando, Sicily by
attacking troop con- centrations, gun positions, and communications lines
leading to the area.
On the ground in Sicily, US Seventh Army forces take Naso and press closer
to Randazzo. Medium bombers support the British Eighth Army by raiding the
Fiumefreddo and Randazzo areas.
The 111th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group,
transfers from Gela to Termini, Sicily with P-51's. A detachment continues to
operate from Gela until Sep 43.
The 341st Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy),
transfers from Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to Pont-du-Fahs, Tunisia with
B-17's.
THURSDAY, 12 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, 79 B-25's attack Falcone, Patti, Novara di Sicilia, and
Barcellona; P-40's bomb and strafe shipping at Messina.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's attack
landing grounds at Cro- tone, and B-26's hit Grazzanise Airfield; they claim 9
fighters shot down. In Sicily, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
P-40's and A-36's hit shipping along the NE coast and in the Straits of
Messina, attack gun positions and vehicles at Capo Calava and E of Randazzo,
and hit a bridge at Taormina and roads in the Maletto-Fiumefreddo areas; NATAF
bombers attack Patti, Falcone, Barcellona, and Nunziata.
On the ground in Sicily, the US Seventh Army continues to pursue the enemy E
along the N coast. Further inland, US forces gain a favorable position from
which to assault Randazzo, but the enemy withdraws during the night of 12/13
Aug, precluding an attack. The British Eighth Army seizes Maletto and Riposto.
The 85th and 97th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group
(Light), transfer from Malta to Torrente Comunelli, Sicily with A-20's.
The 340th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy),
transfers from Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to Pont-du-Fahs, Tunisia with
B-17's.
FRIDAY, 13 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
61 B-24's hit an aircraft factory at Wiener-Neustadt in the first Ninth Air
Force raid on Austria. 80+ B-25's hit Piedimonte, Italy, Falcone, Sicily, and
shipping at Messina, Sicily. 200+ P-40's attack shipping and bridges along the
SW Italian coast, hit shipping in the Straits of Messina, and fly armored
reconnaissance and fighter-bomber operations in NE Sicily.
The 67th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 44th Bombardment Group (Heavy),
ceases operating from Benina, Libya with B-24's and returns to it's base at
Shipdham, England.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb a
marshalling yard at Lorenzi, and B-25's and B-26's hit a marshalling yard at
Littoria; other B-25's hit a vessel off Pizzo. P-40's fly a sweep over S
Sardinia, strafing small boats, a power station, and railroad junction.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light and medium bombers bomb
Piedimonte, Italy, Falcone, Sicily, and bridges N of Scaletta, Sicily. A-36's
and fighters hit targets in NE Sicily, the Straits of Messina and on the toe of
Italy, including Gioia Tauro, Italy and in Sicily, the Barcellona road junction
E of Randazzo, the marshalling yard and trucks at Spadafora, trucks between
Taormina and Baracca, and barges, ferries, and small vessels in the Strait of
Messina.
On the ground in Sicily, the US Seventh Army enters Randazzo without
opposition. Coastal forces continue E toward Patti.
The 86th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light),
transfers from Malta to Torrente Comunelli, Sicily with A-20's.
SATURDAY, 14 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
61 B-24's, on loan from the Eighth Air Force, bomb the Bf 109 factory at
Wiener-Neustadt, Austria. B-25's attack road junctions and vehicle
concentrations along the NE coast of Sicily and bomb a crossroads N of Palmi,
Italy. P-40's hit shipping in the Milazzo and Messina, Sicily areas and along
the Italian coast in the Palmi area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) P-38's sweep the toe of Italy
but find little enemy movement. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
fighters, and medium and light bombers hit a refueling depot at Nicola and near
Gesso, Sicily, a road junction N of Palmi, Italy, shipping in the straits and
along the W coast of Italy N to Gioia, and numerous targets of opportunity in
NE Sicily and S Italy as the enemy continues an orderly evacuation from Sicily
to mainland Italy across the Straits of Messina.
On the ground in Sicily, US troops speed E along the coast to the Barcel-
lona area and also continue pursuit of the enemy E of Randazzo.
The 340th, 341st and 342d Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 97th Bombardment
Group (Heavy), transfer from Pont-du-Fahs to Depienne, Tunisia with B-17's.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-25's hit shipping along the beaches of Sant' Agata di
Militello; 180+ P-40's attack shipping at Messina and in the Straits of
Messina. Enemy forces withdrawing to main- land Italy are pounded severely by
constant air attacks.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's and B-26's
bomb Sibari railroad junction and marshalling yard, and P-38's hit trains,
troops, radar, and Staletti railroad tracks and tunnel. P-40's attack a bivouac
area near Monserrato, Sardinia.
On the ground in Sicily, US Seventh Army troops land on the Sicilian N coast
NW of Barcellona during the night of 15/16 Aug to block the enemy withdrawal.
The US 3d Infantry Division heads along the N coast to Spada- fora. British
Eighth Army troops complete a drive around Mount Etna as the
Randazzo-Linguaglossa road is closed. Linguaglossa and Taormina are taken.
HQ 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy) transfers from Pont-du-Fahs to Depienne,
Tunisia.
The 92d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group, transfers from Warnier,
Algeria to Sidi Ahmed, Tunisia with P-39's.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
86 B-24's bomb the city area and airfields at Foggia, Italy. In Sicily, 50+
B-25's hit landing craft concen- trations near Ganzirri and Messina, and 100+
P-40's hit shipping at Messina and in the Straits of Messina, as the enemy
continues the withdrawal of rear guard troop to mainland Italy. Before
midnight, US patrols enter Messina, which is under fire from the Italian coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) medium bombers hit
Staletti and a tempo- rary bridge at Angitola. In Sicily, Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light and medium bombers hit shipping in the Straits
of Messina and from N of Messina to Capo Pelaro. A-36's and P-40's concentrate
on communi- cations targets on the toe of Italy, hitting trains, trucks,
railroad yards, and sidings at Nicastro, Lamezia, Amantea, and Sambiase. Also
bombed are barges, ferries, and small vessels off Messina, Sicily and in the
Golfo di Sant' Eufemia, Italy.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
200+ P-40's hit shipping at Messina, Sicily, at Palmi and in the Gulf of
Gioia, Italy.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
The Sicilian campaign ends with the official entry of the US Seventh Army's
3d Infantry Division into Messina at 1000 hours. The British force from Ali
arrives shortly thereafter. The fall of Sicily paves the way for the stepped-up
air offensive against Italy.
In France, about 180 Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's
attack Istres-Le-Tube Airfield and Salon-de-Provence Airfield. Around 100
medium bombers attack communications targets on the N part of the Italian toe,
hitting Battipaglia and Castrovillari with damaging effect; escorting P-38's
strafe vehicles in the area. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
fighters and light bombers pound shipping in the Straits of Messina and Gulf of
Gioia, Italy, hit the rail center at Lamezia, Italy, and har- rass enemy
movement on the Italian toe.
The 416th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force, transfers from Al-
giers to Bone, Algeria with Beaufighters. The squadron will fly it's first
combat mission on 4 Sep.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, P-40's attack motor transport between Scilla and Bagnara, and bomb
shipping off Scilla.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) fighters and medium
bombers hit barracks and railroad at Gonnesa, sink a small vessel in the Golfo
di Sant' Eufemia and bomb and strafe a railway station, bridge, and tracks at
Soverato, bridges and a road junction at Angitola, and highway and road
junction at Staletti. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) air- planes
hit gun positions and road and rail transport in S Italy.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
About 70 B-24's bomb the marshal- ling yard at Foggia, Italy. P-40's fly
coastal reconnaissance over the toe of Italy and bomb roads and buildings.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, 150+ Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb the
Foggia marshalling yard, while almost 100 medium bombers hit marshalling yards
at Sapri and Salerno; the bombers, and escorting P-38's claim 34 enemy planes
shot down, against 8 losses; Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
A-36's attack the Cantanzaro marshalling yard; P-40's on sweeps over the
Italian toe attack a train near Melito di Porto Salvo and strafe a small number
of trucks.
The 12th Photographic Squadron (Light), 3d Photographic Reconnaissance and
Mapping Group, ceases operating from Gela/Ponte Olivo, Sicily with F-4's and
returns to it's base at Ariana, Tunisia.
The 86th and 97th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group
(Light) transfer from Torrente Coumunelli to Gerbini, Sicily with A-20's.
FRIDAY, 20 AUGUST 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
P-40's strafe and bomb shipping off the Italian toe and communications
targets on land. Hits are scored on bridges, railway yards, and railway cars.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's hit the Capua
and Aversa marshal- ling yards, while B-25's bomb the Benevento marshalling
yard, and P-40's attack the airfield at Monserrato, Sardinia; Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters hit road and railway at Gioia and trucks
near Locri during missions along the E and W coasts of the Italian toe.
HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 84th and 85th Bombardment
Squadrons (Light) transfer with A-20's from Torrente Comunelli to Gerbini,
Sicily.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-24's attack a railroad station, marshalling yard, and air depot at
Cancello Arnone, Italy.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's and B-17's
bomb marshalling yards at Villa Literno and Aversa; the P-38 escort also
attacks Aversa; NASAF aircraft claim 20+ enemy fighters shot down; Northwest
African Tacti- cal Air Force (NATAF) fighter-bombers hit traffic on the
Bovalino-Bagnara road.
HQ 42d Bombardment Wing (Medium) transfers to Ariana, Tunisia where groups
are assigned.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
All fighter and medium bomber groups of the Ninth Air Force are transferred
to the Twelfth Air Force, i.e.:
12th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 81st, 82d, 83d and 434th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) at Gerbini, Sicily with B-25's,
57th Fighter Group and it's 64th, 65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons on Sicily
with P-40's,
79th Fighter Group and it's 85th, 86th and 87th Fighter Squadrons on Sicily
with P-40's,
324th Fighter Group and it's 314th, 315th and 316th Fighter Squadrons at El
Haouaria, Tunisia with P-40's, and
340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 486th, 487th, 488th and 489th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) at Comiso, Sicily with B-25's.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's, with an escort of
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-36's, bomb the marshalling yard
at Salerno, Italy; they claim 26 enemy fighters destroyed. NATAF fighters on
armored reconnaissance hit motor transport S of the Locri-Gioia Tauro, Italy
area and NE of Bagnara, Italy.
HQ 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 81st, 82d, 83d and 434th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfer from Ponte Olivo to Gerbini, Sicily.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-24's hit a marshalling yard at Bari, Italy.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's bomb the Battipaglia,
Italy marshalling yard. Fighter-bombers hit factory and barracks near Cagliari,
Sardinia. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) P-40's and A-36's escort
NASAF B-26's, and Spitfires fly uneventful tactical reconnaissance over NE
Sicily and the toe of Italy.
HQ 313th Troop Carrier Group transfers from Kairouan, Tunisia to Sciacca,
Sicily.
The 93d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group, transfers from Monastir to
Sidi Ahmed, Tunisia with P-39's.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighter-bombers hit a
railroad tunnel and cruiser offshore at Sibari, tracks and buildings at
Castrovillari, and the town area at Sibari; and Royal Air Force (RAF) Desert
Air Force air- planes strafe motor transport N of Reggio di Calabria and
provide withdrawal cover for the NATAF fighter-bombers.
HQ 314th Troop Carrier Group transfers from Kairouan, Tunisia to Castel-
vetrano, Sicily.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-24's bomb the marshalling yard at Foggia, Italy.
The 566th and 567th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 389th Bombardment Group
(Heavy), which have been operating from Bengasi, Libya with B-24's since Jul
43, return to their base at Hethel, England.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Around 135 B-17's and 140 P-38's attack satellite airfields at Foggia,
Italy. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighter-bombers hit trucks
S of Sino- poli, Italy.
The 414th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy)
transfers form Pont-du-Fahs to Depienne, Tunisia with B-17's.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
The 316th Troop Carrier Group and it's 36th, 37th, 44th and 45th Troop
Carrier Squadrons with C-47's are transferred to the Twelfth Air Force.
The 328th, 329th, 330th, and 409th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 93d
Bombardment Group (Heavy), which have been operating from Bengasi, Libya since
Jun 43 with B-24's, return to their base at Hardwick, England.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
The Royal Air Force (RAF) Desert Air Force (DAF) is assigned to the
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF), along with US units of the Ninth
Air Force which have been an operational part of DAF and Northwest African
Tactical Bomber Force (NATBF).
In Italy, 80+ Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's, with
P-38 escort bomb Capua Airfield; 100+ fighter-escorted medium bombers hit
Grazzanise Airfield and satellite field; P-40's bomb Carloforte on San Pietro
Island and strafe the S part of Sardinia; and NATAF medium and light bombers
bomb targets on the toe of Italy, including the railroad junction at Locri and
gun positions at Reggio di Calabria and Villa San Giovanni.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
The 564th and 565th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 389th Bombardment Group
(Heavy), which have been operating from Bengasi, Libya since Jul with B-24's,
returns to their base at Hethel, England.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb the
Sulmona marshalling yard, and medium bombers hit the Benevento and Caserta
marshalling yards; nearly 150 P-38's escort the bombers. Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) medium and light bombers, and fighters attack
targets in S Italy, including Cantanzaro rail and road junction, guns near
Reggio di Calabria, Sibari rail junctions, Cetraro marshalling yard, barracks
at Tarsia, train and repair shops at Paola, and a barge at Diamante.
HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 486th, 487th, 488th and 498th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfer from Comiso to Catania, Sicily with
B-25's.
The 527th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 86th Fighter-Bomber Group, transfers from
Gela to Barcelona, Sicily with A-36's.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb the
marshalling yard at Terni; B-26's hit the Aversa marshalling yard and
Sparanise; and B-25's hit the Cancello Arnone marshalling yard. P-40's fly
intruder missions over Sardinia, bombing and strafing industry and town area.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) light and medium bombers attack
railroad facili- ties at Lamezia and Catanzaro, Italy; fighter-bombers hit road
and rail junctions, and marshalling yards at Castrovillari, Cosenza, and
Catanzaro, Italy.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's hit the Orte
marshalling yard, and B-26's bomb Torre Annunziata; Northwest African Tactical
Air Force (NATAF) fighters escort the NASAF bombers, hit a rail junction at
Bagnara, bridge and town of Angitola, gun positions in the Villa San
Giovanni-Reggio di Calabria areas, and a marshalling yard at Lamezia.
HQ 51st Troop Carrier Wing transfers from Goubrine, Tunisia to Gela, Sicily.
HQ 57th Bombardment Wing transfers from Egypt to Tunisia.
HQ 64th Troop Carrier Group transfers from El Djem, Tunisia to Comiso,
Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, B-17's of the Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) bomb
Viterbo Airfield; B-25's hit the Civitavecchia marshalling yard; B-26's bomb
the Aversa marshalling yard. P-40's strafe a radar station at Pula, Sardinia.
Also in Italy, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) medium and light
bombers attack marshalling yards at Marina di Cantanzaro and Paola, and gun
emplacements and bivouac S of Reggio di Calabria; and A-36's bomb marshal- ling
yards at Sapri and Lamezia.
HQ 60th Troop Carrier Group transfers from El Djem, Tunisia to Gela, Sicily.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-24's bomb the marshalling yard at Pescara, Italy; they claim 9 enemy
fighters destroyed.
The 66th and 68th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 44th Bombardment Group
(Heavy), that have been operating from Benina, Libya with B-24's since Jun,
return to their base at Shipdham, England.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, about 150 Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's
blast the Pisa marshal- ling yard, doing a large amount of damage; Northwest
African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) medium and light bombers bomb the Cosenza
marshalling yard and road-railway junction in Cantanzaro during the morning,
and in the after- noon bomb the area around Cosenza when clouds prevent hitting
specific tar- gets; fighter-bombers hit Sapri railroad and seaplane base; and
during the night light bombers hit the bivouac areas SE of Reggio di Calabria.
AUGUST 1944 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force): Bad weather limits operations to
reconnaissance missions.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force): In Italy, medium bombers hit bridges
in the Po Valley, N of Genoa, at Canneto sull'Oglio, Balossa, Vigone, Ronco
Scrivia, and Ovada, and marshalling yard at Imperia; fighter-bombers
concentrate on airfields in the Po Valley (at Villanova d'Albenga, Airasca, and
Venaria Reale), hit small landing grounds throughout the area, and attack
several communications targets including roads, rail lines, bridges, and
railroad cars.
WEDNESDAY, 2 AUGUST 1944
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
330+ bombers are dispatched to hit targets in France and Italy; B-24s attack
Genoa, Italy harbor; B-17s hit targets in S France, including Le Pouzin oil
storage, Portes-les-Valences torpedo factory and marshalling yard, Le Pontet
oil storage, and Avignon railroad bridges; P-38s and P-51s provide escort.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, medium bombers strike at bridges near the border between Italy and
France, doing some damage at Gilette, Taggia, Alessandria, and at 2 points
along the Var River; fighter- bombers pound bridges and airfields in NW Italy
and S France and attack targets of opportunity in the area.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
600+ bombers hit targets in Germany; B-17s and B-24s hit industry in the
Friedrichshafen area, including chemical works, fabric works, and 2 aircraft
factories; B-24s also bomb communications targets in the Brenner Pass area,
attacking Avisio viaduct and bridges at Ora and San Michele all'Adige; fighters
fly about 300 sorties in support; the bombers and fighters claim 18 enemy
aircraft shot down; 11 AAF airplanes are destroyed.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, medium bombers achieve fair results in attacks on bridges at
Gilette, Levens, Lesegno, Albenga, and Asti, and at 2 locations along the Var
River; fighter-bombers have a successful day against communications targets
(mainly road and railroad bridges) and airfields in N Italy; at least 15
bridges are damaged or demolished and several parked aircraft are destroyed.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
In an attempt to comply with the first direct Soviet request for AAF air
strikes, 70+ P-38s and P-51s leave Italy, attack the airfield and town of
Focsani, Rumania and land at Operation FRANTIC bases in the USSR.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, weather severely hampers the day's operations. medium bombers
attacking bridges at Levens, Ventimiglia, Fontan, and along the Var River
achieve poor results; fighter- bombers in same the general area hit bridges,
tracks, guns, junction, and airfield, and strike at Nice, France harbor.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, weather again restricts operations; A-20s on armed reconnaissance
in the Po Valley during the night of 4/5 Aug attack lights and vehicles;
fighter-bombers fly a few unsuccessful missions against bridges; and the
detachment of the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 64th Fighter Wing (attached to
87th Fighter Wing), operating form Piombino, Italy returns to base at
Solonzara, Corsica with Beaufighters.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
60 fighters take off from Operation FRANTIC bases in the USSR, attack
Craiova marshalling yard and other railroad targets in the Bucharest-Ploesti,
Rumania area, and land at Italian bases. Close to 700 B-17s and B-24s,
operating against targets in SE France, attack oil storage at Le Pouziii, Le
Pontet, and Lyon, railroad bridges at Le Pouzin, Avignon, Tarascon, Rambert,
and Givors, marshalling yards at Portes-les-Valences and Miramas, and submarine
pens at Toulon; 43 P-38s dive-bomb airfields at Orange/Plan de Dieu, and
Valence; P-38s and P-51s fly about 200 sorties in support of bombing missions.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
Medium bombers strike bridges in SE France in the Rhone Valley and areas to
the E, in or near Tarascon and Arles, and alone the Var River; fighter-bombers
enjoy a successful day against targets in NW Italy and SE France, including
bridges, railroad lines, motor transport, trains, roads, airfields, and town
areas, plus shipping at Imperia, Genoa, and La Spezia, Italy.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
353 B-17s and B-24s bomb 2 synthetic oil reflneries at Blechhammer S (B-17s)
and Blechhammer N (B-24s); 300+ fighters provide support; 76 B-24s hit Alibunar
Airfield and Novi Sad oil facilities, Yugoslavia; the bombers and fighters
claim nearly 30 aircraft shot down.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, A-20s bomb shipping at Genoa, Finale Ligure, and Alassio and
Monaco, Monaco during the night of 6/7 Aug; during the day, B-25s and B-26s
bomb bridges at Les Censies, Ventimiglia, La Voulte-sur-Rhone, Livron, Avignon,
and Pont-Saint-Esprit; fighter-bombers hit rail and road bridges, marshalling
yards at Alessandria and Albenga, shipping at Imperia and Nice, and airfields
in NW Italy and S France.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
Bad weather limits operations to reconnaissance missions.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, medium bombers attack targets in Po Valley and Rhone Valley in
France, hitting bridges and railroad tracks in or near Alessandria, and
Avignon, Pont-Saint-Esprit, and along the Var River in France; A-20s hit a
storage dump and the nearby town of Savigliano; fighter-bombers hit a barge in
San Stefano al Mare harbor and pontoon and railroad bridges nearby, and attack
the Mantua causeway and nearby bridges, scoring many hits and destroying
several vehicles.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
Around 400 bombers, with fighter escort, hit targets in Hungary and
Yugoslavia; B-17s bomb an aircraft assembly plant and a rolling stock plant at
Gyor, Hungary and marshalling yard and oil refinery at Brod, Yugoslavia; B-24s
bomb 2 airfields and an oil refinery at Budapest, Hungary.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, medium bomber efforts are restricted by bad weather; however,
during the night of 8/9 Aug A-20s hit targets along the coastal road from Nice,
France to Genoa, and during the day B-25s hit the railroad at Ventimiglia and
B-26s attain excellent results on the Bergamo/Orio al Serio Airfield;
fighter-bombers sink a motor vessel in Imperia harbor and attack railroad
facilities in NW Italy; the detachment of the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance
Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, operating from Santa Maria with F-6s,
returns to base at Borgo, Corsica.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
450+ B-17s and B-24s, with fighter escort, hit 6 oil refineries in the
Ploesti, Rumania area. In Italy, the 37th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group,
ceases operating from Corsica with P-38s and returns to base at Triolo
Airfield; and the 94th Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group, based at Salsola
Airfield with P-38s, sends a detachment to operate from Aghione, Corsica.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
Medium bomber and A-20 missions are cancelled by bad weather;
fighter-bombers, operating on a reduced scale, hit gun positions along the S
coast of France in preparation for the Allied invasion of S France (Operation
DRAGOON).
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
The 27th and 71st Fighter Squadrons, 1st Fighter Group, based at Salsola
Airfield with P-38s, Italy, send detachments to operate from Aghione, Corsica
for 10 days
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
B-25s, B-26s, and P-47s strike gun positions along the French and Italian
coasts W of Genoa as the Operation DRAGOON assault force begins a movement from
the Naples area toward targets in S France.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
Almost 550 fighter-escorted B-17s and B-24s attack targets in France and
Italy; the B-17s bomb gun positions in the Savona, Italy area; B-24s attack gun
positions in the Genoa, Italy and the Marseille, Toulon, and Sete areas of
France; 100+ P-51s strafe radar installations and other coast-watching
facilities along the French S coast; these and Twelfth AF strikes are
preparatory to Operation DRAGOON.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
Medium bombers, A-20s, and fighter-bombers attack targets, mainly gun
positions, in the battle area N of the Arno River and in S France.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
Almost 500 B-17s and B-24s attack gun positions around Genoa, Italy and
Toulon, and Sete, France, and strike at bridges at Pont-Saint-Esprit, Avignon,
Orange, and Crest, France; 31 P-38s dive-bomb Montelimar Airfield; other
fighters fly 180+ sorties in support of the bombers; and 28 bombers hit
military installations at Pec, Yugoslavia.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In France, medium bombers blast coastal defense guns in the Marseille area
while A-20s during the night of 12/13 Aug attack targets along the
Monaco-Toulon road, and fighter-bombers hit guns and barracks in the area; and
fighters strafe airfields at Les Chanoines, Montreal, Avignon, La Jasse,
Istres-Le-Tube, Valence, and Bergamo. In Italy, A-20s attack explosive stores
in the battle area in the Arno River Valley.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
540 B-24s and B-17s bomb gun positions in the Toulon, France and Genoa,
Italy areas as the Operation DRAGOON convoy heads for the French Mediterranean
coast; 145 P-38s and P-51s strafe radar installations at several coastal
points.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In France, medium bombers hit coastal defenses while fighter-bombers pound
various gun positions, tracks, enemy HQ, and targets of opportunity in the
Toulon-Nice area; fighters strafe radar installations and targets of
opportunity along the S coast as Operation DRAGOON forces approach. In Italy
during the night of 13/14 Aug, A-20s hit targets of opportunity in the W Po
Valley and a fuel dump N of the battle area; and the 416th Night Fighter
Squadron, 62d Fighter Wing, based at Pomigliano with Beaufighters and
Mosquitos, sends detachments to operate from Alghero, Sicily and Borgo,
Corsica.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
In the Fifteenth AF's first mass night raid, 252 B-17s and B-24s after a
predawn takeoff pound beaches in the Cannes-Toulon, France area in immediate
advance of Operation DRAGOON; 28 other fighter-escorted B-17s bomb highway
bridges over the Rhone River; B-17s sent against coastal gun positions abort
the mission owing to poor visibility; and 166 P-51s escort Mediterranean
Tactical Air Force (MATAF) C-47s carrying airborne invasion troops.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In France during the night of 14/15 Aug A-20s bomb Le Vallon, Istres, and
Orange/Plan de Dieu Airfields and other Rhone Valley targets while the US
Seventh Army carries out preliminary operations to isolate Operation DRAGOON
invasion beaches; the US Special Service Force invades Levant and Port-Cros
Island and secures the left flank of the assault area; French commandoes land E
of Cap Negre and clear coastal defenses, the French Naval Assault Group lands
SW of Cannes and secures the right flank; the 1st Airborne Task Force drops in
the rear of assault beaches and blocks off the invasion area from the interior;
the main force, the US VI Corps, lands 3 divisions abreast between Nice and
Toulon at 0800 hours local; A-20s bomb barracks in the invasion area while
B-25s, B-26s, P-38s, and P-47s, supporting the invasion, pound beaches, enemy
concentrations, and gun positions in coastal areas and later in the day move
attacks inland to interdict enemy communications lines successfully hitting
numerous bridges; fighters maintain constant patrol over the convoys and
invasion area; HQ 64th Fighter Wing moves from Santa Maria di Caputa, Italy to
St Tropez; and the 111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air
Command, based at Borgo, Corsica, sends a detachment to operate from St Maxime
and Grimaud with F-6s.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
89 B-24s, with fighter escort, bomb a chemical works at Friedrichshafen,
Germany. In France, 108 B-17s, supporting Operation DRAGOON, attack railroad
bridges at Saint-Vallier, Saint-Pierre-d'Albigny, Grenoble, and Isere-Valence;
42 P-51s escort MATAF C-47s on a supply dropping mission to DRAGOON beachheads.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In support of Operation DRAGOON forces, fighters and fighter-bombers
continue to blast enemy defenses and communications on the beaches and in the
invasion area of S France; A-20s hit lights and vehicles during the night of
15/16 Aug from N of the beachhead to the Rhone River and during the day raid
ammunition stores; medium bombers pound Rhone River bridges and gun positions
throughout the general area.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
53 B-17s, with fighter cover, bomb Nish Airfield, Yugoslavia. 250 B-24s,
escorted by P-51s, bomb 3 oil refineries and targets of opportunity in the
Ploesti, Rumania area.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In France, despite bad weather, medium bombers attack railroad bridges
leading to the beachhead area of the S coast and hit coastal guns SW of Toulon;
A-20s hit motor transport during the night and drop ammunition to invasion
forces; fighter-bombers and fighters on armed reconnaissance and patrol score
excellent results against motor transport and rail cars and destroy several
airplanes on airfields in the S.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
370 fighter-escorted B-17s and B-24s bomb 5 oil refineries around Ploesti,
Rumania; 89 B-24s, with fighter cover, bomb Alibunar Airfield, Yugoslavia. The
detachment of the 94th Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group, operating from
Aghione, Corsica with P-38s returns to base at Salsola Airfield, Italy.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In France, medium bombers blast coastal guns in the Toulon area and shipping
in Toulon harbor; fighter- bombers closely support beachhead troops, hit
rolling stock and rail lines, and generally disrupt communications as the US VI
Corps overruns the primary defenses in the coastal area of SE France; fighters
maintain beachhead patrols and area cover for the bombers; and HQ XII Tactical
Air Command moves from Italy to France.
ARMY AIR FORCE, MTO:
The 72d Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), moves from
Santa Maria, Italy to St Tropez, France with L-5s; a flight is operating from
Caserta, Italy.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
Bombing the Ploesti, Rumania area for the fourth consecutive day, 65 B-17s
supported by 125 P-51s blast 2 oil refineries.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In France, A-20s hit marshalling yards while B-25s and B-26s bomb road and
rail bridges throughout SE France; fighter-bombers and fighters continue to
pound enemy communications N and W, of the beachhead and guns in the immediate
battle area as the US Seventh Army's Task Force Butler crosses the Durance
River and moves N to Sisteron and Digne.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
460+ B-24s and B-17s, some fighter-escorted, bomb the airfield and
marshalling yard at Szolnok, Hungary and oil refineries at Dubova,
Czechoslovakia, and Czechowice and Auschwitz, Poland.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In France during the night of 19/20 Aug A-20s attack lights and motor
transport from the battleline NW to the Rhone River; B-26s, joined by
fighter-bombers and fighters, hit coastal defense guns in the Toulon area,
while B-25s bomb Rhone Valley bridges and airfields achieving especially good
results at the airfield near Valence; and the 23d Photographic Reconnaissance
Squadron, 5th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, based at Borgo, Corsica with
F-5s, sends a detachment to Le Luc, France.
ARMY AIR FORCE, MTO:
The 14th Liaison Squadron, AAF, MTO (attached to Seventh Army), moves from
St Tropez to Brignoles with L-5s (a detachment is operating from Caserta,
Italy).
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
117 B-24s, escorted by P-51s, bomb Nish Airfield, Yugoslavia. 102 B-24s,
with P-51 escort, hit Hajduboszormeny Airfield, Hungary which 46 other P-51s
sweep, some making low-level strafings on parked aircraft. In Italy, the
detachments of the 27th and 71st Fighter Squadrons, 1st Fighter Group,
operating from Aghione, Corsica with P-38s, return to base at Salsola Airfield;
and the detachment of the 37th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group, operating
from Corsica with P-38s, returns to base at Triolo Airfield.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, medium bombers hit roads and bridges in the Po Valley while A-20s
during the night of 20/21 Aug strike motor transport in the W part of the
Valley and bomb Alessandria barracks during the day. Fighter-bombers and
fighters again blast enemy communications lines and gun positions in S France,
marshalling yard and rail lines at Alessandria and Casale Monferrato, and motor
transport and train cars in NW Italy and SE France. The detachments of the
111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, operating
from St Maxime and Grimaud, France with F-6s returns to base at Borgo, Corsica;
another detachment begins operating from St Raphael, France.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
Around 530 B-17s and B-24s supported by P-51s and P-38s bomb hit targets in
Austria and Germany; B-17s bomb oil refineries at Odertal, Germany; B-24s bomb
oil refineries at Korneuburg, Austria and Blechhammer, Germany, and oil storage
at Lobau, Austria.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
Weather restricts operation in SE France; B-26s attack targets in the Po
Valley of Italy where they destroy 1 bridge and severely damage another; A-20s
hit motor transport SW of Alessandria, Italy and in the Nice, France area
during the night of 21/22 Aug and hit industrial buildings in S France during
the day; fighters hit motor transport W of the Rhone River and in scattered
parts of SE France; the 85th, 86th and 87th Fighter Squadrons, 79th Fighter
Group, move from Corsica to Southern France with P-47s; and the 315th Fighter
Squadron, 324th Fighter Group, moves from Corsica to Le Luc, France with P-47s.
The detachment of the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62d Fighter Wing, operating
from Alghero, Sicily with Mosquitos, returns to base at Pomigliano, Italy.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
In Austria, 472 B-24s and B-17s supported by P-51s and P-38s bomb the S
industrial area of Vienna, the Wiener-Neudorf aircraft engine factory,
Vosendorf oil refinery, and Markersdorf Airfield, and attack targets at
Ferrara, Italy, missing a river bridge but hitting a synthetic rubber factory.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, medium bombers attack road and rail bridges N of the Arno River
and roads leading N from Florence, and also hit bridges in the Rhone Valley of
France; widespread haze in parts of France and Italy prevents accurate bombing;
fighter-bombers continue to attack communications, gun positions, and road
movements in the Provence battle areas; the 314th Fighter Squadron, 324th
Fighter Group, moves from Corsica to Le Luc, France with P-47s; and the
detachment of the 416th Night Fighter Squadron, 62d Fighter Wing, operating
from Borgo, Corsica with Mosquitos returns to base at Pomigliano.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
530+ B-17s and B-24s bomb 3 oil refineries at Kolin and Pardubice,
Czechoslovakia; marshalling yard at Vinkovci, Yugoslavia; Szeged, Hungary; and
Ferrara, Italy railroad bridge and several targets of opportunity; around 70-80
fighters escort the Czechoslovakian missions; and US bombers and escorting
fighters claim nearly 40 air victories.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
During the night of 23/24 Aug, A-20s hit motor transport and targets of
opportunity in the Rhone Valley of France and at Genoa, Milan, and Turin,
Italy; medium bombers bomb bridges at Montpellier, Avignon, and Lunel, France
and Solignano Nuovo, and Castel del Rio, Italy, and score direct hits on gun
positions in the Marseille, France area; and fighters bomb and strafe gun
positions, vehicles, roads and bridges throughout SE France. In Italy, the
346th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group, moves from Pomigliano to Tarquinia
with P-47s (the detachment at Piombino also moves to the new base).
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
In Czechoslovakia, 300+ B-17s and B-24s supported by P-38s and P-51s bomb
aircraft factories at Brno and Kurim and airfields at Brno and Prostejov. The
885th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), Fifteenth Air Force (attached to
Mediterranean Allied Air Forces), moves from Blida to Maison Blance, Algeria
with B-17s and B-24s (the squadron transports supplies to partisans and drop
leaflets in the MTO).
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
A-20s hit targets of opportunity during the night of 24/25 Aug, and during
the day fly armed reconnaissance over the Po and Rhone Valleys in Italy and
France respectively, and hit ammunition stores in S France. In France, B-25s
and B-26s attack Rhone River bridges at Avignon, Culoz, Saint-Alban-du-Rhone,
Pont d'Ain, and Loyes, and hit gun positions around Marseille; fighter-bombers
on armed reconnaissance in the battle area and in Italy, along the battleline N
of the Arno River attack gun positions, roads, and bridges. HQ 27th Fighter
Group and the 522d, 523d and 524th Fighter Squadrons move from Serragia,
Corsica to Le Luc France with P-47s; HQ 79th Fighter Group moves from Corsica
to S France; HQ 324th Fighter Group moves from Corsica to Le Luc, France.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
470+ bombers escorted by P-38s and P-51s attack targets in Italy and
Rumania; B-17s hit viaducts and bridges at Venzone, Avisio, and Latisana,
Italy; in Rumania, B-24s hit a train ferry and terminal at Giurgiu, Otopeni
Airfield, barracks and troops in the Baneasa area and a viaduct at Borovnica.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
During the night of 25/26 Aug fighter-bombers on armed reconnaissance over
the W Po Valley, Italy, and over the Nice, France area bomb vehicles and other
targets of opportunity, and during the day bomb ammunition dumps in SE France
and in NC Italy; in France, medium bombers hit guns in the Marseille area but
several missions into the Rhone Valley are aborted due to bad weather;
fighter-bombers and fighters fly armed reconnaissance over N Italy and SE
France, attacking rail lines, roads, guns, vehicles, and other targets of
opportunity.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
530+ fighter-escorted bombers attack targets in Germany and Italy; the B-17s
hit an oil refinery in Blechhammer, Germany; the B-24s also hit an oil refinery
in Blechhammer and in Italy, a railroad bridge at Ferrara, and viaducts at
Avisio, Venzone, and Borovnica.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In France, medium bombers hit gun emplacements in the Marseille area and the
111th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, XII Tactical Air Command, moves from
Borgo, Corsica to St Rahael with F-6s. In Italy, medium bombers attack bridges
at Berceto; fighter- bombers continue armed reconnaissance in the Po Valley and
over roads leading N from the battle line N of the Arno River; A-20s bomb
targets of opportunity in the Po Valley during the night of 26/27 Aug, fly
armed reconnaissance and during the day hit ammunition stores in NC Italy; and
the detachment of the 12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3d
Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), moves from Cecina to Malignano with F-5s
(the squadron is based at Follonica).
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
560+ bombers escorted by P-38s and P-51s strike targets in Austria, Hungary
and Italy; B-17s hit Moosbierbaum oil refinery and adjacent chemical works in
Austria; B-24s hit an oil refinery at Szony and marshalling yards at Miskolc,
Hungary; and railroad bridges and viaducts at Szolnok, Hungary; and Zambana,
Avisio, and Ora Italy.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
B-25s bomb railroad bridges in the Lyon, France area. In Italy, B-26s
destroy several airplanes at Villafranca di Verona Airfield and a bridge at
Parma; A-20s hit motor transport and other targets of opportunity during the
night of 27/28 Aug, fly armed reconnaissance over the Po Valley and blast a
command post SE of Genoa; fighter-bombers hit vehicles in the Rhone Valley of
France, bomb and strafe roads and bridges in the battle area N of Arno River
and hit shipping in Imperia and Savona harbors.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
550 bombers strike targets in Italy, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and
Yugoslavia; in Italy, communications targets in the Po Valley and railway
bridges at Ferrara, Salzano, and Ferrara; in Czechoslovakia, oil refineries and
communications targets in the Silesian Plain, including the Bohumin area, steel
works and marshalling yard, Moravska-Ostrava marshalling yard, oil refineries
and industrial area including, tank works, and marshalling yards; in the
Hungarian Plain, marshalling yards at Szolnok and Szeged, and a railway bridge
at Szeged; and in Yugoslavia, a railway bridge at Borovnica; P-38s bomb
Latisana Bridge, Italy.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, medium bombers hit 4 bridges and a viaduct in NE Italy while A-20s
hit a fuel station; fighter- bombers hit roads and bridges in N Italy and
support ground forces in the Arno River Valley; P-47s fly medium bomber escort
and armed reconnaissance, claiming 100 vehicles destroyed. In France, fighters
attack targets in the Rhone Valley; and the 316th Fighter Squadron, 324th
Fighter Group, moves from Corsica to Le Luc with P-47s.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
100+ B-24s and B-17s hit targets in Yugoslavia; the B-17s bomb railroad
bridges at Novi Sad and Vranjeco; the B-24s attack bridges at Cuprija. Nearly
100 P-51s strafe airfields at Kecskemet, Hungary and Oradea, Rumania.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
Weather grounds the medium bombers; A-20s hit targets of opportunity during
the night of 29/30 Aug and fuel storage while fighter-bombers pound roads and
railroads in the Po Valley in Italy and, on armed reconnaissance over the Rhone
Valley in France, attack rail lines and motor and horsedrawn vehicles, as US
Seventh Army elements continue up the Rhone Valley toward Lyon. HQ 27th Fighter
Group and 522d, 523d and 524th Fighter Squadrons move from Le Luc to Salon,
France with P-47s.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
In Rumania, 45 P-51s strafe the airfield at Reghin, while 97 others strafe
airfields at Oradea and Kecskemet, Hungary; fighters claim a record number of
150+ aircraft destroyed on the ground; and starting Operation REUNION (the
evacuation of US airmen interned in Rumania), 36 B-17s evacuate US airmen from
Bucharest (which falls to the Soviet Army today) to Bari, Italy.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
In Italy, medium bombers attack railroad bridges in the Po Valley, cutting
the bridge at Mira; and A-20s attack targets of opportunity in the Po Valley
during the night of 30/31 Aug and along with fighter-bombers hit communications
N of the Arno River. Other fighter-bombers attack communications targets in
France as the US Seventh Army pushes toward Lyon.
AUGUST 1945 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
HQ 52d Fighter Group and 2d, 4th and 5th Fighter Squadrons begin a movement
from Lesina, Italy to the US.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
Unit moves in Italy to Pomigliano during Aug 45:
- HQ XXII Tactical Air Command from Florence;
- HQ 57th Bombardment Wing from Fano;
- HQ 62d Fighter Wing from Antignano;
- the 5th and 12th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadrons, 3d Reconnaissance
Group, from Peretola Airfield, Florence with F-5s.
Units beginning a movement from Italy to the US during Aug 45:
- 121st Liaison Squadron, Twelfth AF, from Florence;
- 445th, 446th, 447th and 448th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 321st
Bombardment Group (Medium), from Falconara.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
HQ 459th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and 756th, 757th, 758th and 759th
Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy) begin a movement from Giulia Airfield, Italy to
the US with B-24s.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
Brigadier General William L Lee takes command of the Fifteenth AF.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
HQ 31st Fighter Group and 307th, 308th, and 309th Fighter Squadrons begin a
movement from Triolo Airfield, Italy to the US.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
HQ 57th Fighter Group and 65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons begin a movement
from Bagnoli, Italy to the US.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
The 64th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group, begins a movement from
Bagnoli, Italy to the US.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
The 414th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth AF, begins a movement from
Bagnoli, Italy to the US.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
The 37th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Reconnaissance Group,
moves from San Severo to Bari, Italy with F-5s.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
The 32d Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Reconnaissance Group,
moves from San Severo to Bari, Italy with F-5s.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
The 416th Night Fighter Squadron, XXII Tactical Air Command, moves from
Pontedera, Italy to Horsching, Austria with P-61s.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
HQ 310th Bombardment Group (Medium) and 379th, 380th, 381st and 428th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) move from Fano to Pomigliano, Italy with B-25s.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
All units are transferred or redeployed with the exception of the 6719th WAC
HQ Platoon (an assigned unit) and a Detachment, 1054th MP Company, Aviation.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
The 23d Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 3d Reconnaissance Group, moves
from Peretola Airfield, Florence to Pomigliano, Italy with F-5s.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
HQ 3d Reconnaissance Group moves from Florence to Pomigliano, Italy.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
With the discontinuance of the 6719th WAC HQ Platoon, the Detachment, 1054th
MP Company, Aviation, remains the only unit still attached to Twelfth AF.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
HQ 82d Fighter Group and 95th, 96th and 97th Fighter Squadrons move from
Vincenzo Airfield to Lesina, Italy with P-38s.
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Fifteenth Air Force):
Colonel Elmer J Rogers Jr assumes command of HQ Fifteenth AF until it's
inactivation on 15 Sep 45.
TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Twelfth Air Force):
HQ Twelfth AF is inactivated in Italy.
SOURCES:
AIR FORCE COMBAT UNITS OF WORLD WAR II, Office of Air Force History,
Headquarters USAF, 1961, ISBN 0-912799-02-1
COMBAT SQUADRONS OF THE AIR FORCE, WORLD WAR II, Office of Air Force
History, Headquarters USAF 1982
THE ARMY AIR FORCES IN WORLD WAR II: COMBAT CHRONOLOGY, 1941-1945 by the
Office of Air Force History, Headquarters USAF, 1973
THE MIGHTY EIGHTH WAR DIARY by Roger A. Freeman, ISBN 1-85409-071-2
Jack McKillop
USAF (Airways and Air Communications Service)
1955-59
LAST UPDATE 11/21/2011
