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351st Bomb Group

Polebrook, England

Group Mission #110

Credited Mission #104
 
DATE: 20 Apr. 1944
Target: Two Noball Targets in France
 
Outline for Briefing:
  1. Airplane and Crew Assignment Check.
    C.O.’s Comment: These targets have highest priority until further notice.

  2. Time Schedule:
     A - C Box B - D Box
    Stations – 1535Stations - 1545
    Start Engines – 1545Start Engines – 1555
    Taxi - 1555Taxi - 1605
    Take Off - 1610Take Off - 1620
    Last Take Off - 1650Last Take Off - ____

  3. Targets:
    Primary:  26–C (NO BALL)   26–D NO BALL
    Secondary: ___
    Last Resort: ___

  4. Loading:
    High Box: 12 x 500# RDX [High Explosive] 1/10 Nose x 1/40 Tail [Fuse]
    Lead Box:
    Low Box:
    Nickels [Propaganda Leaflets] in Ship # - ___

  5. Gasoline Loading:
    Tokyos [Planes with extra wing fuel tanks]: Normal
    Non-Tokyos:
    Remarks:

  6. Wing Formation94th (A) CBW94th (B) CBWComp. GroupComp. CBW
    Lead______
    Low______
    High______

  7. Division Formation:
    PositionCBW [Combat Wing]TargetDeparture Time at Coast
    Lead41stA-C-B-D
    2nd94thA-C-B-D
    3rd
    4th
    5th
    6th
    7th
    8th
    2nd Division
    3rd Division
    Marauders [B-26]
    RAF [Royal Air Force]

    Remarks: Zero Hour - 1830.

  8. Fighter Cover: Area Cover
    •  _ Groups, __ 
       _ Groups, __ 
       _ Groups, __ 
       _ Groups, __ 

  9. Group Assembly is:
    BoxAltitudePlace
    A8,000' Polebrook 
    B7,000’ Polebrook 
    C6,000’ Polebrook 
    D5,000’ Polebrook 

  10. Navigator - _____
  11. S-2 - _____
  12. Weather - _____
  13. Special Instructions to Navigators, Bombardiers and Radio Operators:
    No bomber strike on W/T - Grp. Lead will call Cycle [Division Leader] on VHF giving results.
    Tail gunner of each Grp. Lead to carefully observe bombing results.

  14. Squadron Leaders and Group Deputy report to Target Room. All but Pilots Dismissed.
  15. (A) Code Words –
    PFF Bombing –
    Visual Bombing -Bull Pen
    Authenticator –Hot House
    Recall -Charlie-Queen-Sugar-King
    Division LeadCycle
    ChaffTin Hat, Vabit, Dizi

    (B) Call Signs:
    Call SignFlaresTail Letters
    351st AWoodcraft RedR [Red]J
    351st BWoodcraft BrownRG [Red Green]J
    351st CWoodcraft PinkY [Yellow]J
    351st DWoodcraft GoldYY [Yellow Yellow]J
    401st AWoodcraft WhiteG [Green]S
    401st BWoodcraft SilverGGS
    457th AWoodcraft BlueRYU
    457th BWoodcraft GreenGYU
    Composite
    1st C.B.W.SwordfishR - R [Red Red]A L
    40th C.B.W.FoxholeY - Y [Yellow Yellow]B G H
    41st C.B.W.CowboyG - G [Green Green]C K P
    Composite C.B.W.

    (C)
    U.S. FightersBalance One
    R.A.F. FightersGarlic One
     BombersVinegrove One
    U.S. Grnd. ControlColgate
    R.A.F. Grnd. Control
    Remarks:

    (D)
    Colors of the Day
    TimeColorLetterChallenge
    1400 – 2000RGPD
    2000 – 2400Y-YRXJ

    (E) Ships To Monitor [Radio Channels A, B, C & D]
    1. - All Ships:
    2. - #3 on each Box Lead.
    3. - #2 on each Box Lead.
    4. -

  16. Let-Down on Buncher, if overcast.
    351st "A" 36° Mag. [Magnetic Compass Heading]
    351st "B"   ° Mag. [Magnetic Compass Heading]
    401st "A" 030° Mag.
    457th "A" 15° Mag.

  17. Flying Control. –
    1. Taxi Plan.
    2. Emergency Fields. - Manston
    3. Landing Aids.

  18. Special Instructions: ____


Operational Narrative – “A”, “B”, “C”, and “D” Groups – Noball Installations:
  1. “A” Group (Gaylord – 511th). The nine aircraft scheduled to fly in “A” Group took off at 1606 – 1614 hours. The assembly over the base was accomplished without incident in spite of 7/10 cloud cover and being pressed for time on the assembly. “A” Group departed on course two minutes late, arriving at Point Z nine minutes early and 2,000 feet above the briefed altitude. This was due to a wind shift from 240° to 340°. Rather than stay at Point Z and cause the following groups to also lose time to maintain their interval, the Group Leader made the decision to leave early.
     The route to the IP was as briefed with the turn to the left on a course of 98° to the target. On the first run the target area was picked up but the briefed MPI [Mean Point of Impact] could not be located – so the bombs were not dropped. After making a 360° turn, another run was made on the briefed heading, but, owing to the wind shift, drift could not be killed completely. Taking the new wind into consideration, another 360° turn was made and bombs were dropped on a north heading with the observed results good.
     The turn after bombs away was to the left, due to a heavy concentration of flak on the right, to a point west of Alderney Island. From there a course direct to base was flown without incident.
  2. “B” Group (McCafferty – 508th). The nine aircraft scheduled to fly in the “B” Group formation took off at 1618 – 1623 hours. Assembly was accomplished over the field at 9,000 feet. By the time assembly altitude had been reached, the formation was complete, including the aircraft furnished by the 401st Group. No difficulty was encountered in the assembly.
     The departure from base was made one and one-half minutes late, but it was made up by the time London was reached. A wind change necessitated making a double drift to arrive at the point of departure on time. The formation left England on time at the briefed altitude with the “D” Group a few miles behind.
     The IP was reached a few minutes early at the briefed altitude. It was impossible to pick up the target in time to drop bombs. The formation executed a 360° and made a second run on the target. The approach was somewhat off course and the nearness of other ships made a good bombing run difficult. The decision was made to make a third run on the target. Bombs were released on the third attempt. They were observed to fall to the right of the target. The formation during the bombing run was good.
     After “Bombs Away”, the formation returned to base as planned. Light flak was encountered in the target area after the bombs were dropped. A let down to 11,000 feet was made over the Channel. This altitude was held until after the formation passed over London. Between London and base, a let-down was made through broken cloud without difficulty.
     The only difficulty encountered on the mission was the trouble encountered in picking up the exceptionally small target. The “B” Group landings were made at 2033 – 2048 hours.
  3. “C” Group (Harris – 509th). The nine aircraft scheduled to fly in the “C” Group formation took off at 1610 – 1617 hours, climbed and assembled at 8,000 feet over the field. The assembly was made slower than planned and the formation left the field three minutes late, following in trail of “A” Group. The aircraft furnished by the 401st Group joined the formation as it was leaving the field.
     The briefed course was followed over England, the departure point being reached a few minutes early. A double drift was made in order to kill time and then the formation proceeded on course and still in trail of “A” Group.
     The turn at the IP [Initial Point of Bombing Run] was made as planned and the run started. It was impossible to pick up the target on this run. A 360° turn was made to the right, and a second run was made on a different heading. After considerable difficulty, the target was picked up in time to permit a bombing run. The group was in good formation at the time of bombs away. The observations of results were conflicting, but the general consensus of opinion indicated poor results. Photographs indicate that the assigned target was missed completely, the bombs striking Noball 16 and causing considerable damage.
     Intense and accurate flak was encountered in the target area.
     The return to base was made as briefed. No difficulty was encountered. Landings at base were made at 2001 – 2007 hours.
  4. “D” Group (McClelland – 510th). The nine aircraft scheduled to fly in the “D” Group took off at 1623 – 1645 hours. The group formed over the field at the briefed altitude. Due to some difficulty experienced in forming the group, departure from the field was made eight minutes late. A course was laid for Point Z and the formation climbed to 10,000 feet. The navigator reported that the arrival at Point Z would be early, and so the formation flew west for ten minutes. A climb was started, Point Z being reached six minutes early and 3,000 feet below the briefed altitude. Upon completing a 360° turn, departure was made from Point Z on course and on time, but 1,500 feet below the briefed altitude.
     The IP [Initial Point of Bombing Run] was reached at 1817 – the formation being on course and on time, and at the briefed altitude. The turn at the IP was overshot. As a result, the enemy coast was reached slightly south of the briefed course. After some difficulty in locating the target, bombs were dropped on a magnetic heading of 40°. On the turn to the right after bombing, severe flak was encountered while flying on a magnetic heading of 140°. Evasive action was taken. The enemy coast was departed five miles south of the briefed point. The formation proceeded to 49°49’N-00°48’W [off coast of France NW of Le Havre], and started a let down below the undercast. The Group Leader made the decision to go under the clouds and after doing so, reached England at 1910 at an altitude of 6,000 feet at 50°46’N-00°37’W [just east of Bognor Regis, on the southern coast of England]. A course was laid to the base; and landings were made at 2008 – 2015 hours.


AIRCRAFT NOT ATTACKING
  1. “A” Group. Nine aircraft took off and were dispatched. Aircraft 42-38153, pilot Lt. Lemley, failed to drop its bombs due to an engine having been knocked out on the second run over the target. The bombs were jettisoned in the channel to enable the aircraft to maintain its place in the formation. The other eight aircraft attacked the target as briefed.
  2. “B” Group. Nine aircraft took off and were dispatched. All dropped their bombs in the target area. One aircraft could not release six bombs due to a rack malfunction. The remaining six bombs were later jettisoned in the channel in order to enable the aircraft to maintain its position in the formation.
  3. “C” Group. Nine aircraft took off and were dispatched. All attacked, the bombs hitting a Noball target other than the one assigned.
  4. “D” Group. Nine aircraft took off and were dispatched. Aircraft 42-39835, pilot Lt. McIntyre, jettisoned its bombs in the channel in order to keep in formation. Aircraft 42-37714, pilot Lt. Peters, and 42-30857, pilot Lt. Morris, jettisoned their bombs in the channel after rack malfunctions. For further details, see the Armament Report.
  5. Each of the above groups was accompanied by one aircraft and crew of the 401st Group, flying as a fourth ship in the lead element.


AIRCRAFT LOST
  1. No aircraft were lost on the Mission of 20 April, 1944.


GROUP LEADERS
GroupNameRankAircraft
"A"Donald A. GaylordCaptain 42-97381 
"B"Daniel E. McCafferty 1st Lt. 42-31879 
"C"Douglas L. HarrisCaptain 42-38005 
"D"Clyde W. McClelland 1st Lt. 42-38038 


STATISTICAL SUMMARY
"A""B""C""D"TOTAL
No. of A/C Scheduled999936
No. of A/C Taking Off999936
No. of A/C Dispatched999936
No. of A/C Attacking899632
No. of A/C Not Attacking10034
No. of A/C Lost00000

[Signed] Clinton F. Ball, Lt. Colonel, Air Corps, Operations Officer






Bombardier’s Data:

Group: 351st ["A"]
Target: Noball
Method of Bombing: Visual
Altitude: 21,000’
Direction of Attack: 355° Mag. Heading
Wind Direction: 340°
Wind Velocity: 70 MPH
Bombardier’s Narrative: Reached the I.P. at briefed time. Visibility was good, but target was hard to pick up. Three runs were made on the target before target was found. Bombs were away at 1847 on a magnetic heading of 355°. Good results were observed.

[Signed:] Harry Fireman, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier, 511th Bombardment Sqdn.



Bombardier’s Data:

Group: 351st ["B"]
Target: Noball at La Glacerie, Fr.
Method of Bombing: Visual
Altitude: 21,200’
Direction of Attack: 30° Mag. Heading
Wind Direction: 340°
Wind Velocity: 62 MPH
Bombardier’s Narrative: Made two runs on the target. On the first run I was not sure of the target. Made a 360° turn and made a second run on a mag. heading of 30°. Bombs were away at 1901. Results were unobserved as a sharp turn to the left was made after “Bombs Away”.

[Signed:]George W. Gross, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier, 508th Bombardment Sqdn.



Bombardier’s Narrative – Target Noball 26-C:

Group: 351st ["C"]
Target: Noball (26-C) La Glacerie, Fr.
Method of Bombing: Visual
Altitude: 20,000’
Direction of Attack: 15° Mag. Heading
Wind Direction: 340°
Wind Velocity: 62 MPH
Bombardier’s Narrative: Two runs were made on the target. Target could not be located on first run. Second run was made on a magnetic heading of 15°. Bombs were away at 1836. Hits were not observed.

[Signed:] George W. Arnold, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier, 509th Bombardment Sqdn.



Bombardier’s Narrative – Noball Target A-26:

Group: 351st ["D"]
Target: Noball (A-26) La Glacerie, Fr.
Method of Bombing: Visual
Altitude: 20,000’
Direction of Attack: 40° Mag. Heading
Wind Direction: 240°
Wind Velocity: 62 MPH
Bombardier’s Narrative: Two runs were made on the target. On the first run the target was not picked up. The second run was made on a magnetic heading of 40°. Bombs were away at 1828. Results were not observed due to a sharp turn to the left after “Bombs Away”.

[Signed:] Manuel J. Giswein, Jr., 2nd Lt., Air Corps, Lead Bombardier, 510th Squadron



Combat Bombing Flight Record:

Bombardier - 1st Lt. George W. Arnold  Pilot - Capt. Douglas L. Harris Navigator - Capt. Banton, Herbert L.
Aircraft B-17G   005-G  Take-off - 1610¼  Landed - 2001
Objective - Noball (26-C) at La Glacerie, France
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - As briefed
Initial Point - As briefed
Method of Attack - Squadron
No. of Attacking A/C in Group: - 10   Composite Group -
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own Sighting Operation: 1
Deflection and Range Sighting, Group: 1   Composite Group -
Range Sighting only, Group - 1   Composite Group -
Bombs, Types and Sizes - AN-M43 500 LB. RDX [High Explosive]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 12   Released - 12
Fusing, Nose - 1/10   Tail - 1/40
Synchronization - Slow
Information at Release Point:

Altitude of Target - 600'Magnetic Heading Ordered 98° Actual 15°
True Altitude Above Target - 19,400'True Heading 4°
Indicated Altitude - 20,000'Drift, Estimated 9° Left - Actual 9° Right
Pressure Altitude of Target +389True Track 0°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 12,364'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - M-9 2389
True Air Speed - 206 M.P.H.Time of Release 1835
Ground Speed Est. 210 Actual 164Length of Bombing Run - 120 seconds
Wind Direction Metro - 230° Actual - 340°Intervalometer Setting - Salvo
Wind Velocity Metro 52 Actual 62 C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] _____
D.S. - 145.5  Trail - 51   ATF - 36.42A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. .60 Actual .41 Manual Pilot - Yes

Type of Release - Salvo
Point of Impact If Seen - No
Mean Temp. Metro -7 Actual -7
Winds - Altitude - 20,000 Ft.  Direction - Metro 230°  Actual 340°  Velocity - Metro 52  Actual 62
Temp C. - Metro -27° C. Actual -22° C.



Combat Bombing Flight Record:

Bombardier - 1st Lt. Harry Fireman  Pilot - Capt. Donald A. Gaylord Navigator - 1st Lt. Max G. Simmons
Aircraft B-17G   381-U  Take-off - 1606  Landed - 2033
Objective - Noball at La Glacerie, France
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - A/26 (D)
Initial Point -
Method of Attack -Squadron
No. of Attacking A/C in Group: - 9   Composite Group -
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own Sighting Operation:
Deflection and Range Sighting, Group: 1   Composite Group -
Range Sighting only, Group - 1   Composite Group -
Bombs, Types and Sizes - AN-M43 500 LB. RDX [High Explosive]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 12   Released - 12
Fusing, Nose - 1/10   Tail - 1/40
Synchronization - On
Information at Release Point:

Altitude of Target - 532'Magnetic Heading Ordered 98° Actual 355°
True Altitude Above Target - 20,500'True Heading 344°
Indicated Altitude - 21,000'Drift, Estimated 9° Left - Actual 3° Left
Pressure Altitude of Target +322True Track 341°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 12,364'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - M-9 Mercury
True Air Speed - 210 M.P.H.Time of Release 1847
Ground Speed Est. 252 Actual 138Length of Bombing Run - 120 seconds
Wind Direction Metro - 230° Actual - 340°Intervalometer Setting - Minimum
Wind Velocity Metro 45 Actual 70 C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] Yes
D.S. - 141.5  Trail - 51   ATF - 36.42A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. .63 Actual .34 Manual Pilot - ____

Type of Release - Salvo
Point of Impact If Seen - In Target Area
Mean Temp. Metro -7 Actual -6
Winds - Altitude - 20,000 Ft.  Direction - Metro 230°  Actual 340°  Velocity - Metro 52  Actual 70
Temp C. - Metro -27° C. Actual -21° C.



Combat Bombing Flight Record:

Bombardier - 1st Lt. George W. Gross  Pilot - 1st Lt. Daniel E. McCafferty Navigator - 2nd Lt. William N. Roberts
Aircraft B-17G   879-Q  Take-off - 1618  Landed - 2033
Objective - Noball at La Glacerie, [France]
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - As briefed
Initial Point - As briefed
Method of Attack -Squadron
No. of Attacking A/C in Group: - 11   Composite Group -
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own Sighting Operation:
Deflection and Range Sighting, Group: 1   Composite Group -
Range Sighting only, Group - 1   Composite Group -
Bombs, Types and Sizes - AN-M43 500 LB. RDX [High Explosive]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 12   Released - 12
Fusing, Nose - 1/10   Tail - 1/40
Synchronization - On
Information at Release Point:

Altitude of Target - 532'Magnetic Heading Ordered 98° Actual 030°
True Altitude Above Target - 21,200'True Heading 35°
Indicated Altitude - 21,000'Drift, Estimated 9° Left - Actual 5° Right
Pressure Altitude of Target +322True Track 25°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 12,576'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - M-9 Mercury
True Air Speed - 210 M.P.H.Time of Release 1901
Ground Speed Est. 252 Actual 214Length of Bombing Run - 90 seconds
Wind Direction Metro - 230° Actual - 25 KIntervalometer Setting - Salvo
Wind Velocity Metro 340 Actual 70 C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] Yes
D.S. - 137  Trail - 52   ATF - 36.8A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. .63 Actual .60 Manual Pilot - ___

Type of Release - Salvo
Point of Impact If Seen - No
Mean Temp. Metro -7 Actual -7
Winds - Altitude - 20,000 Ft.  Direction - Metro 230°  Actual 340°  Velocity - Metro 52  Actual 62
Temp C. - Metro -27° C. Actual -22° C.



Combat Bombing Flight Record:

Bombardier - 2nd Lt. Giswein, Manuel J. Jr.  Pilot - 1st Lt. McClelland, Clyde W. Navigator - 2nd Lt. Miller, Richard G.
Aircraft B-17G   038-R  Take-off - 1610¼  Landed - 2008
Objective - Noball (A-26) at La Glacerie
Aiming Point (MPI) [Mean Point of Impact] - As briefed
Initial Point - As briefed
Method of Attack - Squadron
No. of Attacking A/C in Group: - 10   Composite Group -
Number A/C Dropping Bombs by own Sighting Operation:
Deflection and Range Sighting, Group: 1   Composite Group -
Range Sighting only, Group - 1   Composite Group -
Bombs, Types and Sizes - AN-M43 500 LB. RDX [High Explosive]
Number of Bombs Loaded - 12   Released - 12
Fusing, Nose - 1/10   Tail - 1/40
Synchronization - On
Information at Release Point:

Altitude of Target - 600'Magnetic Heading Ordered 98° Actual 40°
True Altitude Above Target - 19,450'True Heading 29°
Indicated Altitude - 20,000'Drift, Estimated 9° Left - Actual 8° Right
Pressure Altitude of Target +389True Track 48°
Altimeter Setting 29.92Actual Range 12,364'
Calculated Indicated Air Speed - 150 M.P.H.B.S. Type - M-9 Mercury
True Air Speed - 205 M.P.H.Time of Release 1828
Ground Speed Est. 252 Actual ___Length of Bombing Run - 35 seconds
Wind Direction Metro - 230° Actual - 340°Intervalometer Setting - Minimum
Wind Velocity Metro 45 Actual 62 C-1 Pilot [Autopilot] Yes
D.S. - 141.7  Trail - 50   ATF - 36.42A-5 Pilot _____
Tan. D.A, Est. .63 Actual .67 Manual Pilot - ____

Type of Release - Salvo
Point of Impact If Seen - No
Mean Temp. Metro -7 Actual -7
Winds - Altitude - 20,000 Ft.  Direction - Metro 230°  Actual 340°  Velocity - Metro 52  Actual 62
Temp C. - Metro -27° C. Actual -25° C.



Preliminary Damage Assessment:
  1. This Group was assigned the two targets in the La Glacerie area. Photo coverage was excellent for all four squadrons.
  2. The 508th Squadron was approximately two miles due South of the briefed target. The pattern was V-shaped and measured 2,052 feet by 2,394 feet. One ship dropped late. The area is agricultural and very little damage will be done.
  3. The 509th Squadron dropped approximately four and a quarter miles to the SE of their briefed target. The pattern was compact and measured 1,710 feet by 2,183 feet. This pattern landed in the target area of Noball number 18 and damage will be done to installation there.
  4. The bombs of the 510th Squadron dropped in open fields approximately three miles SE of the briefed target. The pattern was loose and measured 2,565 by 1,368 feet. No damage.
  5. The bombs from the 511th Squadron fell into the briefed target area. The pattern was compact measuring 1,710 by 1,026 feet and the actual MPI was 615 feet right and 752 feet over the briefed MPI. The area is covered with bursts and damage was probably done to installations.
[Signed:] Thomas L. Cooper, 1st Lt., Air Corps, Group P.I. [Photo Intelligence] Officer


Intelligence S-2 Reports – 2 Squadrons on Target 26-C:
  1. No leaflets were dropped during today’s mission.
  2. One squadron bombing 26-C reports poor results. Preliminary examination of the photographs shows that one squadron bombed Noball XI/A/18 with good results. Smoke from previous bombings and some haze made observation of results by the crews difficult.
  3. There was no E/A opposition during the mission.
  4. Intense accurate flak was fired from the general target area, particularly from the Cherbourg area. There was also some flak from Guernsey Island, only fairly accurate for our ships.
  5. Three to four tenths clouds in the target area, but this did not prevent visual bombing.
  6. One crew reported a submarine submerging at 49°18’N-01°53’W [off French Coast NE of Jersey Island]. Three small ships were noted in the Cherbourg Harbor. Many buoys were noted along the French Coast on the route out.
  7. Fighter support was reported to be excellent. No friendly A/C were seen in distress.
[Signed] Donald A. Buschenfield, 2nd Lt., Air Corps, Ass’t. Group S-2 [Intelligence]


Intelligence S-2 Reports – 2 Squadrons on Target 26-D:
  1. No leaflets were dropped during today’s mission.
  2. One of the two squadrons bombing 26-D reports poor results. The other squadron has photographs which show bomb patterns on the primary 26-D and also in the SW corner of XI/A/10a. Smoke made observation difficult.
  3. There was no enemy opposition during the mission.
  4. Intense, accurate flak was fired from the Cherbourg area and the target area; continuous following fire control evidently was used to good effect. There was also some flak from Guernsey Island which was only fairly accurate for our planes.
  5. There were 3-4/10ths clouds in the target area, but this did not prevent visual bombing.
  6. One B-17, unidentified as to group or number, flying behind the planes of this group, was seen to blow up in the target area at about 10,000 feet as a result of flak. This observation was made at 1856. One crew reported encountering flak from flak boats near the coast of Alderney Island. A balloon barrage was seen on the SE corner of Guernsey Island.
  7. Fighter escort provided good area cover.


Track Chart:
Click on Chart to Enlarge



A.A. Gunfire (Flak) Report:

1.Target: Assigned - Noball 26-C and 26-D Bombed - Noball XI/A/18
2. Route as Flown. - As briefed to target area. Two 360° turns were made in target area; then some of the ships returned between Alderney and Cap de la Hague, some between Cap Lévi and Point de Barfleur.
3. Weather Conditions - A. at Target. - 3 – 4/10 cloud  B. En route - 3 – 4/10 cloud
4. Were our A/C "Seen" or "Unseen" targets? (a) At Target - seen (b) Enroute - seen
 Any Condensation Trails? - No
5. Description of Flak, including type of Fire Control: 5. Intense, accurate continuous following; black bursts and a few red and white bursts were encountered.
6. Flak encountered or observed en route. (In the order experienced) -
 Guernsey, 21,000 – 6 – 8 guns, fairly accurate.
 Cap de la Hague, 20,000 – meager, accurate.
 Octeville – 4 very accurate guns in wooded area.
 Cherbourg, 21,000 – Intense, very accurate.
 Valognes, 21,000 – meager, inaccurate – low and to the right.
 Quettehou, 20,000 – meager, accurate.
 Alderney, 21,000 – low, inaccurate bursts from 6 small ships in harbor.
 All flak appeared to be continuous following.
 Exact time of individual encounters are not known.
7. Was Chaff carried? - Yes How discharged? As briefed
8. Position of Group - ____
9. Group – 351 (2 Sqdns.) A/C over enemy terr. – 18 A/C damaged – 16 (4s) A/C lost to flak – 0 Time over Target – 1828 – 1835 Time of bombs away – 1828 Height – 20,000’ Axis of attack – 30 Bomb run – 60 sec.
 Group – 351 (2 Sqdns.) A/C over enemy terr. – 18 A/C damaged – 14 (4s) A/C lost to flak – 0 Time over Target – 1847 – 1901 Time of bombs away – 1847 Height – 20,000’ Axis of attack – 360 Bomb run – 60 sec.
10. Comments - Phenomena: None



Combat Crew Comments:

1. Following are the comments made by crew members during today’s interrogation:

    508th Squadron
A/C 325-H: Sun glass on sight in ball turret too dark. - Pfc. Wallace.
A/C 258-P: More flak suits and helmets for crews. – Entire Crew.
A/C 066-O: Should reach bombing altitude before IP; we were still climbing at IP. – Lt. Russeth.
A/C 305-L: No rations in ship; let’s have them. – Entire Crew.
  Had trouble with new type tail feed. – Sgt. Weatherholt.
A/C 151-M: Crew should be briefed on target if results of bombing are to be observed. - Lt. Crowe.

    509th Squadron
A/C 216-U: Why not change altitude if additional run is necessary. – Lts. Balliott, Underhill, Roehlk.

    510th Squadron
A/C 975-O: Too much uncertainty about who is flying; when to report for briefing, etc. – Lt. Hopkins.

    511th Squadron
A/C 987-D: During taxiing for take-off several ships for other sqdns. taxied down 07 and took off in improper position and also prevented several of our ships in the element from getting into formation in time. – Lt. Power.
A/C 714-R: Get some water out to ships; we need it for long hops. – Sgt. Martin.
A/C 191-X: Poor formation. – Lt. Miller.
  Element leaders are unable to fly this type formation. – Lt. Fikes.
A/C 848-C: Gunners should attend briefing. – Sgt. Soles.

[Signed] Robert P. Ramsey, Captain, Air Corps, Group S-2 [Intelligence]



Mission Summary Report – Squadron “A”:
  1. Abortives: None.
  2. Battle Damage:
    1. Airplane No. 42-31748, 511th Squadron. Small flak hole through right wing outer panel, skin and Tokyo tank damaged. Four small flak holes through left wing behind #1 Engine, skin, corrugation and electrical wiring for #1 and #2 supercharger shot away. Two small flak holes through both bomb bay doors, skin damage only. Flak hole on right side of fuselage near waist window, skin and ring former damaged.
    2. Airplane No. 42-31238, 511th Squadron. Flak hole through left wing near connection of wing panels, skin, corrugation and spar damaged. Small flak hole through left wing tip. Two small flak holes through left flap, skin and stiffeners damaged. Induction system and impeller wheel of #4 supercharger damaged by flak.
    3. Airplane No. 42-97318, 511th Squadron. Flak hole in right wing underside in fairing. Skin, corrugation, fairing and fuel tank damaged. Small flak hole underside of left horizontal stabilizer. Skin damage only.
    4. Airplane No. 42-39987, 511th Squadron. Small flak hole through right flap, skin and stiffener damaged.
    5. Airplane No. 42-39848, 511th Squadron. Small flak hole through tail gunner’s compartment, skin damage only. Small flak hole in leading edge of wing between #3 and #4 Engines, skin damage only. Small flak hole through trailing edge of right wing near fuselage. Skin and corrugation damaged.
    6. Airplane No. 42-31714, 511th Squadron. Flak hole through left wing outer panel, skin, corrugation and Tokyo tank damaged. Flak entered nose section of #3 Engine, damaged engine cylinders and oil lines of engine.
    7. Airplane No. 42-38153, 511th Squadron. Small flak hole in left wing under side outer panel, skin and corrugation damaged. Small flak hole in leading edge of right wing underside near #4 Engine, skin damage only.
    8. Airplane No. 42-97191, 511th Squadron. Small flak hole in Plexiglass nose section. Small flak hole in right wing near connection of wing panels, skin and corrugation damaged. Small flak hole through center of vertical stabilizer, skin and former damaged.
    9. Airplane No. 42-97381, 511th Squadron. Small flak hole through left wing tip. Fabric of left aileron torn by flak. Flak hole underside of left wing inner panel. Skin, corrugation and Tokyo tank damaged. Push rod housing of #1 Engine damaged. Small flak hole behind #3 Engine, skin, corrugation and fuel tank damaged.
    TOTAL A/C DAMAGEDMINOR DAMAGEDAMAGED BY FLAK
    999
[Signed:] Otto R. Vasak, Captain, Air Corps, Station S-4 Officer [Engineering]


Mission Summary Report – Squadron “B”:
  1. Abortives: None.
  2. Battle Damage:
    1. Airplane No. 42-31711, 508th Squadron. Fabric of left elevator torn by flak. Small flak hole underside of left wing inner panel between #1 and #2 Engines. Skin and corrugation damaged. Two small flak holes in leading edge of right wing inner panel, skin damage only. Two flak holes rear and above left waist window, skin damage only.
    2. Airplane No. 42-97258, 508th Squadron. Small flak hole in leading edge of right wing near fuselage, skin, corrugation and electrical wiring of instruments and racks damaged. Small flak hole underside of fuselage forward of tail wheel, skin damage only.
    3. Airplane No. 42-97325, 508th Squadron. Small flak hole in skin of right horizontal stabilizer. Small flak hole underside of right wing tip. Small flak hole in right bomb bay door, skin damage only. Two small flak holes in underside of left wing inner panel, skin damage only.
    4. Airplane No. 42-38146, 508th Squadron. Flak hole rear of forward escape hatch, damage to skin and oxygen system. Small flak hole in frame of forward escape hatch.
    5. Airplane No. 42-97157, 508th Squadron. Air Duct of #2 Engine damaged by flak.
    6. Airplane No. 42-97066, 508th Squadron. Small flak hole underside of left wing, main fuel tank damaged, also skin and corrugation. Small flak hole underside of left wing outer panel, skin, corrugation and Tokyo tank damaged.
    TOTAL A/C DAMAGEDMINOR DAMAGEDAMAGED BY FLAK
    666
[Signed:] Otto R. Vasak, Captain, Air Corps, Station S-4 Officer [Engineering]


Mission Summary Report – Squadron “C”:
  1. Abortives: None.
  2. Battle Damage:
    1. Airplane No. 42-97202, 509th Squadron. Small flak hole in leading edge of right horizontal stabilizer, skin damage only. Small flak hole in leading edge of left horizontal stabilizer, skin damage only.
    2. Airplane No. 42-39914, 509th Squadron. Fabric of left aileron torn by flak. Flak hole in right wing underside inner panel, skin and Tokyo tank damaged.
    3. Airplane No. 42-97144, 509th Squadron. Flak hole in corrugation of right wing underside between #3 and #4 Engines. Flak hole through fuselage below waist window, skin and stiffeners damaged.
    4. Airplane No. 42-97216, 509th Squadron. Small flak in vertical stabilizer. Skin damage only. Flak hole on right side of vertical base, skin and stiffener damaged.
    5. Airplane No. 42-97149, 509th Squadron. Small flak hole underside of right horizontal stabilizer. Three small flak holes in trailing edge of right wing inboard panel, skin and corrugation and stiffeners damaged. Flak hole on top of right wing at base of #4 nacelle, skin and electrical wiring damaged. Flak hole through left wing tip. Flak hole on top of #2 Engine nacelle. Flak hole in right cowling of #4 Engine. Flak hole in right side of navigator’s compartment, skin and wiring damaged. Three small flak holes on right side of Dinghy compartment.
    6. Airplane No. 42-30499, 509th Squadron. Flak tear in skin of fuselage on right side of radio compartment. Small flak hole in cowling of #4 Engine. Skin damage only.
    7. Airplane No. 42-97169, 509th Squadron. Small flak hole in leading edge of right wing tip. Flak hole in leading edge of wing near right landing light lens, skin, corrugation, and spar damaged. Two flak holes in leading edge of right wing between #3 and #4 Engines, skin and air ducts damaged.
    8. Airplane No. 42-38005, 509th Squadron. Flak hole through left flap, skin, corrugation and stiffener damaged. Small flak hole in left wing outer panel underside, skin and corrugation damaged. Small flak hole in left wing tip underside.
    TOTAL A/C DAMAGEDMINOR DAMAGEDAMAGED BY FLAK
    888
[Signed:] Otto R. Vasak, Captain, Air Corps, Station S-4 Officer [Engineering]


Mission Summary Report – Squadron “D”:
  1. Abortives: None.
  2. Battle Damage:
    1. Airplane No. 42-31560, 510th Squadron. Small flak hole through left wing tip. Small flak hole underside of left wing, skin, corrugation and feeder tank damaged. Small flak hole through tip of vertical stabilizer. Small flak hole in leading edge of right horizontal stabilizer, skin damage only.
    2. Airplane No. 42-31975, 510th Squadron. Nine small flak holes in left horizontal stabilizer. Stabilizer is being changed. Eleven small flak holes through left wing outer panel, damage to skin, corrugation and stiffeners, also Tokyo tank damaged. Left side of dorsal fin peppered with small flak holes, damage to skin, channels, and stiffeners. Two flak holes through tail gunner’s compartment, damage to skin, tail gun sight, communication wires, and bulkhead #10 and #11. Small flak hole underside of right wing, skin, corrugation and #3 fuel tank damaged.
    3. Airplane No. 42-39835, 510th Squadron. Small flak hole in center of plexi-glass nose section. Flak hole on top of #3 Engine nacelle, damage to electrical wiring, primer line, and two stiffeners. Flak hole in leading edge of wing near fuselage and #3 Engine. Skin, battery cover, engine control cable and vacuum line damaged. Flak hole on top of right wing inner panel between #3 and #4 Engines, damage to skin, corrugation and #4 tank. Three flak holes behind #2 Engine, damage to skin, corrugation and spar. Flak hole in leading edge of right horizontal stabilizer, damage to skin and bulkhead. Small flak hole in base of dorsal fin, left side. Damage to skin and vacuum line. Small flak hole on right side of navigator’s compartment, skin, interphone wiring and static tube damaged.
    4. Airplane No. 42-37714, 510th Squadron. Flak hole through right flap behind #4 Engine. Flap rod, stiffeners and longerons damaged. Small flak hole underside of wing behind #3 Engine, skin, corrugation and feeder tank damaged. Flak hole in leading edge of right horizontal stabilizer, skin and channel damaged. Flak hole in leading edge of left horizontal stabilizer. Damage to channel, skin and rear bulkhead. Small flak hole in leading edge of right wing near #3 Engine, skin damage only.
    5. Airplane No. 42-30857, 510th Squadron. Small flak hole in left outer wing panel underside. Skin, corrugation and Tokyo tank damaged. Small flak hole in fairing of left, skin and stiffener damaged. Small flak hole on right side of ball turret, skin damage only. Flak hole in leading edge of right horizontal stabilizer, skin and channel damaged. Small flak hole in left horizontal stabilizer, skin damage only. Small flak hole in plexi-glass nose section. Small flak hole in tip of vertical stabilizer.
    6. Airplane No. 42-38038, 510th Squadron. Small flak hole in left outer wing panel underside. Skin, corrugation and Tokyo tank damaged. Small flak hole in right bomb bay door, skin and release wiring damaged. Small flak hole in fairing of left wing underside. Skin and electrical wiring damaged. Small flak hole in base of dorsal fin. Small flak hole in right wing tip leading edge.
    7. Airplane No. 42-97196, 510th Squadron. Flak hole near #1 Engine underside. Skin, corrugation and #1 tank damaged. Three small flak holes in left flap, skin, corrugation and stiffeners damaged. Two small flak holes in leading edge of right wing between fuselage and #3 engine. Skin, battery jar and air duct damaged. Small flak hole in center of plexi-glass nose section. Flak hole in right wing underside between #3 and #4 Engines. Skin, corrugation and #3 tank damaged. Flak hole through base of dorsal fin forward of waist window, skin, rudder control cables and trim tab cables damaged. Flak hole aft of right waist window. Skin and circumferential stiffener damaged. Two small flak holes in bottom of tail gunner’s compartment, skin and radio wiring damaged.
    TOTAL A/C DAMAGEDMINOR DAMAGEDAMAGED BY FLAK
    777
[Signed:] Otto R. Vasak, Captain, Air Corps, Station S-4 Officer [Engineering]


Armament Report – “A” and “B” Groups:
  1. The following armament malfunctions and failures were reported by the “A” Group on the Mission of 20 April, 1944.
    1. A/C 42-97149 – The left bomb rack did not release electrically, and bombs had to be salvoed. Investigation showed that flak had hit the wires to the left rack.
    2. A/C 42-97318 – (All electrical system) Bombardier reports he tried to salvo with no results. A moment later the ship was violently rocked by flak, and the bombs then dropped. This ship checks out OK on the ground, but will be checked at high altitude before its next mission.
  2. The “B” Group reported the following armament malfunctions and failures.
    1. A/C 42-97196 – In the ball turret, the left ammunition can was hit by flak. The window was also broken by flak.
    2. A/C 42-37714 – The bomb bay door indicator light, on both the bombardier’s and the pilot’s panels, came on before the doors were fully open, with the result that bombs could not be dropped. Doors were cranked down and bombs jettisoned in Channel. The bomb bay door motor is being replaced. The door indicator light relay has fused closed.
    3. A/C 42-38146 – Bomb bay doors had to be cranked open. The limit switch was found to be out of adjustment.
    4. A/C 42-97258 – (All electrical system) Bombs did not release on bombing run. They were jettisoned in the Channel, dropping ten seconds after the co-pilot had hit his salvo switch. The bomb bay wiring was found to be shot up by flak in the main power lead. Also, the fuse in the #3 nacelle was burned out.
    5. A/C 42-97325 – (All electrical system) The left bomb bay failed to release on the bombing run. Investigation shows that the left bomb bay selector switch had not been turned on.
    6. A/C 42-30857 – Bomb bay doors could not be opened with emergency release or with the crank before the bombing run. On returning to base, bombs were jettisoned in the Channel after doors were finally cranked down. Investigation disclosed the bomb bay door motor clutch stuck.
[Signed:] Michael Steele, CWO, USA, Group Armament Officer


Ammunition Expenditure – “A” and “B” Groups:

1. Following is the expenditure of Caliber .50 ammunition on the Mission of 20 April, 1944, as Reported by the Station Ordnance Officer.
a. “A” Group – 2,130 rounds.
b. “B” Group – 4,680 rounds


[Signed:] Robert B. Stratton, Captain, Air Corps, Statistical Officer


Disposition of Bombs:

1. Following is the disposition of bombs on the Mission of 20 April, 1944.

"A" Group
AIRCRAFTBOMBS
Main BombfallsOver TargetBombingNumberSizeTypeFusing: NoseTail
(Noball #26 D)9896500 lb. RDX [High Explosive] 1/101/40
(Noball #26 C)98108500 lb.RDX [High Explosive]1/101/40
Total Bombs Dropped204500 lb.RDX [High Explosive]1/101/40
Jettisoned in Channel12500 lb.RDX [High Explosive]1/101/40
TOTAL BOMBS LOADED216500 lb.RDX [High Explosive]1/101/40


"B" Group
AIRCRAFTBOMBS
Main BombfallsOver TargetBombingNumberSizeTypeFusing: NoseTail
(Noball #26 D)99102500 lb. RDX [High Explosive] 1/101/40
(Noball #26 C)9672500 lb.RDX [High Explosive]1/101/40
Total Bombs Dropped174500 lb.RDX [High Explosive]1/101/40
Jettisoned in Channel42500 lb.RDX [High Explosive]1/101/40
TOTAL BOMBS LOADED216500 lb.RDX [High Explosive]1/101/40

[Signed:] Robert B. Stratton, Captain, Air Corps, Statistical Officer



“J” Form:
  1. Call Letter and Last Four numbers of A/C in each Squadron:
    a. 94th "A" Combat Wing   "A" Group (A & C Sqdns.)
    Sqdn 508th A/C:
    Sqdn 509th A/C: 8005–G, 0499–Q, 7149–X, 7845–F, 7144–R, 7202–Z, 9914–S, 7216–U, 7169–N
    Sqdn 510th A/C:
    Sqdn 511th A/C: 7381–U, 1748–V, 7318–S, 1238–A, 9848–C, 9987–D, 1714–R, 7191–X, 8153–F
    P.F.F. Sqdn ___ A/C:

    b. 94th "B" Combat Wing   "B" Group (B & D Sqdns.)
    Sqdn 508th A/C: 1879–Q, 7305–L, 7157–N, 7066–O, 1711–F, 8146–D, 7325–H, 6151–M, 7258–P
    Sqdn 509th A/C:
    Sqdn 510th A/C: 8038–R, 0857–J, 1975–O, 1560–A, 9853–P, 1721–S, 7714–T, 9835–N, 7196–M
    Sqdn 511th A/C:
  2. Target: "A" Box - Z-3045  "B" Box - Z-3102
  3. W/T and R/T Operational Call Sign of each Squadron:
    Squadron508 [Call Sign]W/T NSX R/T CARLTONSquadron510 [Call Sign]W/T LWH R/T TIPSTAFF
    Squadron509 [Call Sign]W/T UBU R/T HOTMINTSquadron511 [Call Sign]W/T KBK R/T PARTNERSHIP
  4. a. "A" Box: Taxi–1555; Take-Off –1610; E.T.D. Field–1635
    b. "B" Box: Taxi–1605; Take-Off –1620; E.T.D. Field–1645
  5. BoxTime:Height:  Place of Crossing English Coast: (OUT)
    (a)175018,000 Ft Portland Bill
    (b)180018,000 Ft Portland Bill
  6. BoxTime:Height:  Place of Recrossing Enemy Coast: (IN)
    (a)182020,000 Ft 49°30'N-02°10'W [Above the Channel, 17 miles E of Guernsey Island]
    (b)183020,000 Ft 49°30'N-02°10'W
  7. BoxTime:Height:  Place of Recrossing Enemy Coast: (Out)
    (a)182620,000 Ft 54°30'N-01°05'W [Above the Channel, 12 miles NE of Sainte-Mère-Église, France]
    (b)183620,000 Ft 54°30'N-01°05'W
  8. BoxTime:Height:  Place of Crossing English Coast: (IN)
    (a)185210,000 Ft Selsey Bill
    (b)190210,000 Ft Selsey Bill
  9. E.T.R.(Estimated Time of Return) Base: 1934 - 1944 Hours
  10. MF/DF [Medium Frequency/Direction Finder] Section: "N"
  11. Bomb load of Each A/C: "A" Box
    508 Squadron:
    509 Squadron: 12 x 500# RDX 1/10 Nose x 1/40 Tail [Fuse]
    510 Squadron:
    511 Squadron: 12 x 500# RDX 1/10 Nose x 1/40 Tail [Fuse]


    Bomb load of Each A/C: "B" Box
    508 Squadron: 12 x 500# RDX 1/10 Nose x 1/40 Tail [Fuse]
    509 Squadron:
    510 Squadron: 12 x 500# RDX 1/10 Nose x 1/40 Tail [Fuse]
    511 Squadron:
  12. Fuel Load of each A/C: 1700 Gallons
  13. Group Leader:
    a. "A" Box:  Name: Gaylord, Donald Rank: Capt. A/C: 7381-U  Sqdn. 511th
    b. "B" Box:  Name: McCafferty, Donald Rank: 1st Lt. A/C: 1879-Q Sqdn. 508th
  14. Passengers, if any: (Full Name, Rank, A/C and Squadron Passenger flying with)
    [None]
  15. Actual Times Off and Return by Squadrons and A/C Letters:
  16. Lead Box
    SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.SquadronA/C No. & LetterA.T.O.A.T.R.
    [This part of Form was not completed.]

    Report Compiled By C.A.Blanchard, M/Sgt.



Formation Chart:
351st "A" Box Lead Group Formation Take–Off and Over–Target
511th Squadron
Gaylord
A/C 42-97381 U
Brooks
A/C 42-97318 S
Turbyne
A/C 42-31748 V
401st Group
A/C
Heller
A/C 42-31714 R
Crews
A/C 42-31238 A
Lemley
A/C 42-38153 F
Miller
A/C 42-97191 X
Power
A/C 42-39987 D
Hoder
A/C 42-39848 C


351st "A" Box Low Group Formation Take–Off and Over–Target
509th Squadron
Harris
A/C 42-38005 G
Keese
A/C 42-97149 X
Redmond
A/C 42-30499 Q
401st Group
A/C
Wroblewski
A/C 42-39914 S
Bartzocas
A/C 42-37845 F
Hatten
A/C 42-97169 N
Roehlk
A/C 42-97216 U
Viste
A/C 42-97202 Z
Fowler
A/C 42-97144 R

Time Schedule:
Zero Hour: 1830  Briefing: ____ Stations: 1535  Start Engines: 1545  Taxi: 15550  Take-off: 1610  Leave Base: 1635


351st "B" Box Lead Group Formation Take–Off and Over–Target
508th Squadron
McCafferty
A/C 42-31879 Q
Nall
A/C 42-97157 N
Roper
A/C 42-97325 H
401st Group
A/C
Sengstock
A/C 42-97305 L
Nelson
A/C 42-97066 O
Crowe
A/C 42-6151 M
Evans
A/C 42-97258 P
Blaisdell
A/C 42-38146 D
Pattison
A/C 42-31711 F


351st "B" Box Low Group Formation Take–Off and Over–Target
510th Squadron
McClelland
A/C 42-38038 R
Hopkins
A/C 42-31975 O
Morris
A/C 42-30857 J
401st Group
A/C
Peters
A/C 42-37714 T
Raser
A/C 42-31560 A
McIntyre
A/C 42-39835 N
Scarlett
A/C 42-97196 M
Chalmers
A/C 42-31721 S
Walker
A/C 42-39853 P

Time Schedule:
Zero Hour: 1830  Briefing: ____ Stations: 1545  Start Engines: 1555  Taxi: 1605  Take-off: 1620  Leave Base: 1645

 [Wounded - 1 minor]
The above records were obtained at the National Archives Records Administration and have been declassified by authority NND 745005
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