Text File

COMBAT CHRONOLOGY OF THE US ARMY AIR FORCES

THURSDAY, 1 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss P-47, Republic Thunderbolt Wellington, Vickers (RAF) Zeke, Mitsubishi A6M, Navy Type 0 Carrier Fighter

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force) A joint directive by Commander-in-Chief, Pacific and Commanding General Western Defense Command orders preparations for Operation LANDGRAB, the invasion of Attu Island. In the Aleutians, 16 B-24, 5 B-25, and 12 P-38 sorties are flown against Kiska Island from Adak and Amchitka Islands. Targets include a ship in Gertrude Cove, the North Head area, the Main Camp and the beach. AA fire damages 2 bombers. Reconnaissance covers Kiska, Attu, Buldir, and Semichis Islands. During April, the 73d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 28th Composite Group with B-25's transfers from Elmendorf Field, Anchorage, Alaska to Umnak Island.

CARIBBEAN (Sixth Air Force) The 3d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 6th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with B-24's transfers from David, Panama to Talara, Peru.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Tenth Air Force)

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 16 B-25's bomb the Maymyo railroad sheds. Eight others hit the railroad yards at Ywatsung.

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In China, a Japanese force of 9 fighters is intercepted in the Lingling area by P-40's. We claim 7 fighters shot down; we lose 1 P-40.

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force) The 83d and 84th Fighter Squadron, 78th Fighter Group with P-47C's transfer from Goxhill, England to Duxford, England.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, P-40's escort bomber missions. Medium and light bombers hit parked airplanes and AA batteries at El Maou Airfield at Sfax.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia during the night of 31 Mar/1 Apr, RAF Wellingtons bomb the Bizerte docks and Karouba Bay seaplane base. During the day, A-20's bomb La Fauconnerie and El Djem Airfields. Fighters, carrying out reconnaissance missions over wide areas of Tunisia, attack motor transport, tanks, and guns in the Sidi Mansour-Djebel Tebaga areas. British medium and light bombers, and fighters hit gun positions N of Oued el Akarit and hit the Sfax-El Maou Airfield. The 17th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 27th Bombardment Group (Light) with A-20's transfers from Nouvion, Algeria to Ras El Ma, French Morocco. The 96th Fighter Squadron, 92d Fighter Group with P-38's transfers from Telergma, Algeria to Berteaux, Algeria.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, 42 fighters (P-38's and Navy and Marine aircraft) are sent over the Russell Islands to intercept Japanese aircraft trying to hit US stockpiles on Guadalcanal, the naval base at Tulagi, and the incomplete airstrips in the Russells. The air battle lasts for nearly 3 hours. Six US fighters are lost, against claims of 20 Japanese airplanes destroyed.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In the Bismarck Archipelago, B-17's attack a convoy off Kavieng, and airfields at Gasmata and Cape Gloucester. In New Guinea, B-17's attack the town of Madang. Flights of from l to 3 medium or heavy bombers hit several other targets, mostly isolated shipping and coastline targets in the Netherlands East Indies and in the Solomon Sea.

FRIDAY, 2 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Liberator, Consolidated (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 18 B-24's bomb Kiska targets including North Head. Six B-25's, 16 P-38's, and 24 P-40's in 6 missions from Amchitka to Kiska, bomb the Main Camp and submarine base areas. Four B-24's bomb the runway at Attu. All aircraft, including 2 B-25's colliding in the air, return safely.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 8 B-25's hit the Thazi railroad junction. A detachment of the 25th Fighter Squadron, 51st Fighter Group with P-40's which has been operating from Sadiya, India since Nov 42 transfers to Jorhat, India.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy during the night of 1/2 Apr, RAF Liberators, under the operational control of the IX Bomber Command, bomb the ferry terminal at Messina and the airfield at Crotone. During the day, 2 B-24's on a special mission bomb the ferry terminals at Messina and Villa San Giovanni; 27 B-24's sent against Naples find the target totally obscured by clouds; 9 bomb the area through overcast and 3 bomb Augusta and Crotone. In Sicily, 24 B-24's sent to attack Palermo abort because of heavy clouds over the target. In Tunisia, P-40's fly 9 armored reconnaissance and 6 fighter-bomber and escort missions.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, B-25's and A-20's bomb the airfield at La Fauconnerie.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, P-38's and P-40's attack and set fire to a small cargo vessel in Kokolope Bay.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, A-20's hit the Kitchen Creek area and the Labiabi-Duali area. Single B-24's attack Salamaua, Finschhafen and the bridge at Rempi. In the Bismarck Archipelago, single B-24's hit the airfields at Gasmata and Cape Gloucester.

SATURDAY, 3 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell P-39, Bell Airacobra P-40, Curtiss

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 17 B-25's, operating in 2 forces, bomb the Myitnge bridge, scoring hits on both approaches.

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force) HQ, 78th Fighter Group transfers from Goxhill, England to Duxford, England.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, B-25's the bomb Sfax-El Maou area during the night of 2/3 Apr. P-40's fly fighter-bomber missions N of Gabes. HQ, 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 434th Bombardment Squadron (Medium) with B-25's transfer from El Assa, Libya to Medenine, Tunisia.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) Weather cancels Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) bomber operations. In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters strafe tanks and trucks at Kebira and Jabal Nasir Allah, and claim 14 aircraft downed in aerial combat over Djebel Berda. B-25's bomb the airfield at Sainte-Marie du Zit. Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) light bombers hit motor transport and gun positions N of Oued el Akarit. HQ, 81st Fighter Group and its 93d Fighter Squadron with P-39's transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Bone, Algeria to patrol the coast of Africa and protect Allied shipping in the Mediterranean.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, A-20's hit Kitchen Creek while single B-24's bomb Korindindi. In the Bismarck Archipelago, B-17's pound shipping and the airfield at Kavieng while single B-24's bomb Kavieng.

SUNDAY, 4 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell F-5, Lockheed Lightning Liberator, Consolidated (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-39, Bell Airacobra

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 8 B-25's hit the Maymyo engine sheds. Nine others bomb the Pyawbwe railroad yards. Seven B-24's heavily damage the Thilawa oil refinery.

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force) VIII Bomber Command Mission 49: 97 B-17's of the 1st Bombardment Wing are dispatched against industrial installations in the Paris, France area including the Renault armament works and motor works. 85 aircraft drop 251 tons of bombs on the target between 1414 and 1417 local and cause severe damage. We claim 47-13-6 Luftwaffe aircraft; we lose 4 B-17s and 16 others are damaged by fierce fighter opposition. Casualties are 6 WIA and 39 MIA. The 13th Photographic Squadron (Light) flew 3 F-5 sorties in Belgium and France; 1 F-5 is missing.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, B-24's attack Naples, concentrating on the dock area. In Sicily, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber Command, bomb Palermo. The 83d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with B-25's transfers from El Assa, Libya to Medenine, Tunisia.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Italy, B-25's bomb small shipping at Carloforte on San Pietro Island. B-17's hit Capodichino Airfield and the marshalling yards at Naples. In Tunisia, P-38's dive-bomb a beached freighter off Cape Zebib. Other P-38's escort the bombing raids. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20's hit La Fauconnerie Airfield while B-25's hit El Djem and Sainte-Marie du Zit airfields. Fighters accompany light and medium bombers on attacks, and carry out numerous patrols, reconnaissance flights, and fighter sweeps over the battle areas of Tunisia. The 16th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 27th Bombardment Group (Light) with A-20's transfers from Nouvion, Algeria to Ras el Ma, French Morocco. The 111th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with A-20's and P-39's transfers from Oujda, French Morocco to Guercif, French Morocco.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) Vice Admiral Marc A. Mitscher assumes the position of Commander Air Solomons (COMAIRSOL) which has operational control of all Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), USAAF, USMC and USN aircraft in the South Pacific. A detachment of the 18th Photographic Squadron (Heavy), 4th Photographic Group with B-25's begins operating from Espiritu Santo.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-25's and A-20's pound areas along the Huon Gulf, around Kitchen Creek and the Heaths and Lane Plantations. Single B-17's bomb Salamaua. In the Bismarck Archipelago, B-17's bomb the town area and airfield at Kavieng. Single B-17's bomb Cape Gloucester.

MONDAY, 5 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss P-47, Republic Thunderbolt Wellington, Vickers (RAF)

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, reconnaissance covers all islands W of Kiska with negative results. 16 B-24's and 6 B-25's bomb the Attu runway and Kiska's Main Camp and runway. 4 P-38's fly top cover. Later, 3 B-25's, 16 P-4O's, and 16 P-38's bomb Kiska again.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 17 B-25's bomb railroad targets at Mandalay; 2 others hit Ngamya. Three B-24's bomb the Prome railroad yards; 5 hit the Mahlwagon yards and roundhouse. 12 P-40's and a B-25 support ground forces in N Burma.

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In Burma, P-40's on armored reconnaissance strafe 15 horse-drawn wagons at Wanling.

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force) VIII Bomber Command Mission 50: 104 B-17's of the 1st Bombardment Wing are dispatched against industrial targets in the Antwerp, Belgium area. The main force is directed at the Erla aircraft factory and Erla engine works. 82 B-17's drop 245.5 tons of bombs at 1530 hours local. We claim 23-8-4 Luftwaffe aircraft; we lose 4 to strong Luftwaffe fighter opposition; 13 aircraft are damaged. Casualties are 3 WIA and 40 MIA. HQ 56th Fighter Group and it's 61st, 62d and 63d Fighter Squadrons with P-47C's transfer from Horsham St Faith, England to Halesworth, England.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sicily during the night of 4/5 Apr, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the Trapani docks and shipping. During the day, B-17's bomb the airfields at Boccadifalco and Milo. In Tunisia, B-17's bomb airfields at Sidi Ahmed and Tunis. B-25's hit the airfield at Bo Rizzo and attack a convoy off Cap Bon. P-38's fly several fighter sweeps over the Straits of Sicily. One force of fighters claims 16 airplanes destroyed. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20's hit the Airfield at El Djem and La Fauconnerie. Fighters attack E-boats off Pont-du-Fahs and vehicles S of Bou Hamran, and fly sweeps, reconnaissance, and patrol over the battle area in Tunisia. Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) and Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) aircraft hit motor transport W of Cekhira, bomb Djebel Zitouna Airfield, and strike shipping in the Straits of Sicily. During the day Northwest African Air Force (NAAF) aircraft claim destruction of nearly 50 aircraft in aerial combat. Today starts Operations FLAX (5-22 Apr) which is designed to destroy, in the air and on the ground, enemy air transports and escorts employed in ferrying personnel and supplies to Tunisia. HQ 325th Fighter Group transfers from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria. The 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with A-20's transfers from Canrobert, Algeria to Thelepte, Tunisia. The 91st and 93d Fighter Squadrons, 81st Fighter Group with P-39's transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Bone, Algeria.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, single B-17's attack occupied areas at several points along the Huon Gulf coast, hit Finschaffen on the Huon Peninsula, bomb Madang and other points on the N coast of New Guinea and hit Cape Gloucester on New Britain Island in the Bismarck Archipelago.

TUESDAY, 6 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Liberator, Consolidated (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-39, Bell Airacobra P-40, Curtiss P-51, North American Mustang Wellington, Vickers (RAF)

CENTRAL PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Seventh Air Force) The 333d Fighter Squadron, 318th Fighter Group with P-39's transfers from Canton Island to Hilo, Territory of Hawaii.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 6 B-24's attack Pazundaung bridge, damaging the S approach.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Sicily, B-24's hit the ferry and slips at Messina harbor. In Italy, RAF Liberators, under IX Bomber Command control, bomb the Naples area and rail facilities in Messina, Sicily. In Tunisia, B-25's fly 2 missions against concentrations in the Oued el Akarit region, scoring hits on buildings, tanks, and numerous vehicles. P-40's fly escort, fighter sweep, and strafing operations, attacking guns, vehicles and personnel as the British Eighth Army begin their assault on Oued el Akarit from which the enemy begins withdrawing during the night. HQ 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it"s 514th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy) with B-24's transfer from Soluch, Libya to Bengasi, Libya.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sicily, B-17's bomb the docks and ships at Trapani. In Tunisia during the night of 5/6 April, Wellingtons bomb the dock and shipping at Tunis. During the day, B-25's and P-38's attack shipping in the Straits of Sicily. Two forces of B-17's bomb a convoy further W, near Zembra Island and hit a convoy off Bizerte. B-25's and A-20's attack landing grounds and airfields at Enfidaville, La Fauconnerie, and El Djem. La Fauconnerie bears the brunt of the attacks and is well covered. Fighters escort the bombing raids, fly reconnaissance missions, and attack scattered enemy movement. HQ 27th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 91st Bombardment Squadron (Light) with A-20's transfer from Nouvion, Algeria to Ras el Ma, French Morocco. The 92d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group with P-39's transfers from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Maison Blanche, Algeria. The 154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with P-39's and P-51's transfers from Thelepte, Tunisia to Sbeitla, Tunisia.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) The 70th Fighter Squadron, 18th Fighter Group based on Fiji but operating from Guadalcanal with P-39's, transfers to Guadalcanal.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER F OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-25's bomb the town area and AA positions at Salamaua. Single B-17's bomb Finschhafen. In the Bismarck Archipelago, single B-17's bomb Gasmata while another strafes Cape Gloucester.

WEDNESDAY, 7 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell F4F, Grumman Wildcat (USN) F4U, Chance Vought Corsair (USN) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-39, Bell Airacobra P-40, Curtiss Spitfire, Vickers Supermarine Wellington, Vickers (RAF)

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, the reconnaissance airplane aborts shortly after takeoff due to weather.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA AND INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 2 B-25's temporarily knock out a bridge on the Ye-u railroad branch, crossing the Mu River between Ywataung and Monywa. Eighteen B-25's, in 2 forces, bomb the Ywataung Marshalling Yard. P-40's support ground forces N of Shingbwiyang. Six B-24's bomb Japanese HQ at Toungoo.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Sicily, B-24's attack Palermo harbor. In Tunisia, B-25's bomb retreating columns which are being pursued N of Oued el Akarit by the the British Eighth Army's 30 and 10 Corps. Fighters carry out bombing and strafing operations the battle area.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons attack Tunis and the Jabal al Jallud Marshalling Yard. Weather cancels all other NASAF missions except for 2 reconnaissance sorties. All available airplanes of the XII Air Support Command and Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) hit ground forces which are retreating in all sectors. Fighters fly sweeps over Medjez el Bab (claiming 3 fighters downed), a scramble mission NW of Oued Zarga (5 fighters are claimed destroyed), and over 100 other sorties (no encounters). Highway and motor transport are bombed between Sfax and Sousse. Light and medium bombers, and fighter-bombers attack concentrations N of the Oued el Akarit line. Units of the US II Corps make contact with the British Eighth Army on the Gabes-Gafsa road. HQ 31st Fighter Group and it's 307th, 308th and 309th Fighter Squadrons with Spitfires transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Djilma, Tunisia. The 318th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group with P-40F's transfers from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria. The squadron will fly it's first combat mission on 17 Apr 43.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, a large force of Japanese dive bombers and fighters is reported by coast watchers to be moving down the "Slot." In its path are a convoy off the E coast of Guadalcanal, shipping at Koli Point, and a Task Force at Tulagi. Every operable fighter (76) on Guadalcanal is sent up, and the bombers are moved to the SW tip of the island for safety. The air battle takes place off the Russells, near Tulagi, and over the convoy. USAAF P-38's and P-39's and Marine and Navy F4F's and F4U's claim 39 aircraft shot down, 13 by USAAF fighters. Allied losses total 7 fighters.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-25's hit areas along the NE coast from Mur to Singor. B-24's bomb the landing ground at Babo and town area of Fak Fak. Single heavy bombers attack shipping and coastal targets at Lae, Salamaua, Finschhafen and Wewak; Cape Gloucester and Kavieng in the Bismarck Archipelago; and off Lorengau, in the Admiralty Islands.

THURSDAY, 8 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell P-40, Curtiss Spitfire, Vickers Supermarine

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, The weather airplane scouts Kiska and islands W of it with negative results.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 9 B-25's bomb Meiktila Airfield; 6 B-24's attack the airfield at Heho; and Ft Bayard Airfield is strafed by 9 P-40's. Enemy stores at Ningam are hit by 4 P-40's and a B-25.

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force) In England, 56th and 78th Fighter Groups become operational. Added to the 4th Fighter Group (already operational), this enables VIII Fighter Command to increase activity and paves the way for its coming role of escorting bombers on deep penetrations into enemy territory.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, P-40's fly 29 bomber escort, armed reconnaissance, and fighter-bomber missions against retreating column along coast N of Gabes.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) Weather prevents all Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) operations except minimum weather reconnaissance. In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) P-40's and Spitfires fly sweeps and armed reconnaissance over the Faid Pass-Fondouk el Aouareb-Kairouan-Ousseltia area as the British X Corps attacks Fondouk. Other fighters fly widespread reconnaissance and sweeps, attacking motor transport S of Zaghouan. Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) fighters hit retreating columns in the Cekhira-Sfax area.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) HQ 11th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 4 squadrons, the 26th, 42d, 98th and 431st Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy) with B-17E's and F's, transfer from Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides Islands to the Territory of Hawaii. Group HQ and the 431st go to Hickam Field; the 26th to Bellows Field, the 42d to Kualoa Point; and the 98th to Mokuleia.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In the Bismarck Archipelago, B-17's and B-24's carry out small harassing strikes, bombing Ulamoa, Finschhafen, and the airfield at Kavieng.

FRIDAY, 9 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, a B-24 flies reconnaissance over Kiska, Attu and the Semichis. P-40's fly reconnaissance over Kiska.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, P-40's in a fighter-bomber role attack Sfax, as the British Eighth Army, in pursuit of the retreating enemy, reaches a position a few miles to the SW of the coast.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, fighters continue reconnaissance of the N half of Tunisia and the Straits of Sicily and hit enemy movement and defenses over wide areas between Sfax and Enfidaville. HQ 320th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 443d Bombardment Squadron (Medium) with B-26B's transfer from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria. The 319th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group with P-40F's transfers from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria. The squadron will fly it's first mission on 17 Apr 43.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-25's bomb and strafe the airfield and town and dock areas of Madang. A-20's hit the Kitchen Creek-Mubo area. Single B-17's attack barges at Bogia, Alexishafen and Finschhafen and hit the town of Wewak. In the Admiralities, vehicles at Lorengau on Manus Island are strafed.

SATURDAY, 10 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder Liberator, Consolidated (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss Wellington, Vickers (RAF)

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, the weather reconnaissance B-24 observes 4 unidentified aircraft near Segula. Three B-25's, 17 P-40's, and 6 P-38's fly 5 attack missions to Kiska, and negative searches for the unidentified airplanes at Segula. The last mission finds Kiska closed in and returns with bombs.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, B-24's bomb the harbor at Naples. In Sicily, RAF Liberators, under operation control of the IX Bomber Command, hit Palermo. In Tunisia, Allied ground forces take Sfax and continue N to La Hencha. HQ IX Fighter Command is transferred from Egypt to Tripoli, Libya. Personnel are to be moved from Egypt over a period of several weeks.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sardinia, B-17's hit ships at La Madallena. In Tunisia during the night of 9/10 Apr, Wellingtons bomb troops and transport on roads in the area surrounding Enfidaville. The following day, B-26's follow up the Wellingtons with raids on roads and military concentrations near Enfidaville. Fighter-bombers also hit ground targets in the Enfidaville areas. Fighters escort bombers, carry out reconnaissance, and fly sweeps over the battle area from Medjez el Rah to Sousse.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, B-24's continue to fly harassing strikes as 3 of the heavy bombers hit Kahili Airfield.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-17's and B-24's pound the town and dock area of Wewak. Some of the B-17's also bomb Cape Boram and Kairiru Island while some of the B-24's hit Alexishafen and shipping off Wewak. B-25's pound the harbors at Bobia and Uligan. A lone B-17 strafes barges SE of Bogia and trucks at Cape Croisilles while another bombs the airfield at Arawe. The 8th Bombardment Squadron (Dive), 3d Bombardment Group (Dive) with A-20's transfers from Port Moresby, New Guinea to Dobodura, New Guinea. On 25 May 43, the group and it's 4 squadrons will be redesignated Bombardment Group/Squadron (Light) to reflect it's true mission.

SUNDAY, 11 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss Wellington, Vickers (RAF)

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 4 B-25's, 22 P-40's, and 8 P-38's hit Kiska 5 times. The last mission aborts due to weather. The other 4 missions bomb various targets starting large fires. Some fighters strafe Little Kiska.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, B-24's attack Naples harbor. AA is intense and fighters attack B-24's from all sides, knocking 1 down. The B-24's claim destruction of 3 fighters. In Tunisia, B-25's attack motor transport and concentrations N of Sfax as Allied ground troops push toward Sousse. HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 486th and 487th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-25C's transfer from El Kabrit, Egypt to Medenine, Tunisia.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sardinia during the night of 10/11 Apr, Wellingtons bomb airfields at Decimomannu and Monserrato. In Sicily, B-17's strike the harbors of Marsala and Trapani. In Tunisia, P-38's carry out fighter sweeps and reconnaissance flights, claiming numerous aircraft shot down, including 21 transports destroyed between Cap Bon and Marsala. B-26's bomb Oudna Airfield, B-25's hit Sainte-Marie du Zit Airfield, and B-17's strike the harbor of Tunis. Fighter-bombers and light bombers blast trucks S of the Enfidaville road, trucks E of Kairouan, the Sousse docks, and numerous other targets in the NE quarter of Tunisia.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, P-38's and Navy fighters strafe gun positions in the Rekata Bay area. B-17's bomb airfields at Kahili and on Ballale Island.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-17's bomb Lae and Finschhafen. Single B-24's bomb Finschhafen 3 times and hit Madang once. Enemy airplanes attack Oro Bay and destroy 2 merchant vessels. In Timor, B-25's hit Vila Salazar and another village.

MONDAY, 12 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Liberator, Consolidated (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-39, Bell Airacobra P-40, Curtiss P-51, North American Mustang Spitfire, Vickers Supermarine

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 3 B-25's, 24 P-40's, and 13 P-38's fly 7 missions to Kiska. The fighters also strafe Little Kiska. AA fire damages 1 P-40 and 1 P-38. The P-38 force-lands safely.

AAF ANTISUBMARINE COMMAND The 6th Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy), 25th Antisubmarine Wing arrives at Gander Lake, Newfoundland, Canada from the U.S. with B-24's.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 9 B-25's hit the airfield at Magwe. P-40's bomb and strafe the ammunition and supply dump at Walawbum.

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In Burma, P-40's strafe more than 20 vehicles 25 mi (40 km) E of Loiwing.

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force) In England, a Board of 5 officers of the Eighth Air Force and 1 of the Royal Air Force complete formulation of a plan for the Combined Bomber Offensive (CBO) from the United Kingdom in accordance with the mission prescribed by the Combined Chiefs of Staff (CCS) in the Casablanca Directive.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, B-24's of the 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) sent to attack Naples harbor, are prevented by bad weather from bombing the primary target. About half return without bombing while the others hit Cosenza and Crotone. Other heavy bombers of the same group, in a subsequent mission, bomb Naples and the secondary target of Pizzo. In Sicily, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber Command, are dispatched against Palermo. The primary target is attacked, in spite of total cloud cover, but most of bomb tonnage is dropped in Messina, Italy harbor. In ground action in Tunisia, the British 10 Corps captures Sousse and heads north.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sicily, B-17's bomb the harbor at Trapani and hit shipping in the Straits of Sicily. In Tunisia, B-17's bomb the harbor at Bizerte. B-25's and A-20's bomb airfields at Oudna and Sainte-Made du Zit. Aircraft of tactical units hit enemy movements and fly sweep and reconnaissance throughout NE Tunisia following the attack during the night of 11/12 Apr by British aircraft, mainly in the Enfidaville, Zaghouan, and Bou Ficha areas. HQ 31st Fighter Group and it's 307th, 308th and 309th Fighter Squadrons with Spitfires transfer from Djilma, Tunisia to Le Sers, Tunisia. HQ 33d Fighter Group and it's 59th and 60th Fighter Squadrons with P- 40's transfer from Berteaux, Algeria to Ebba Ksour, Tunisia. The 59th has been operating from Thelepte, Tunisia since 20 Mar. The 2d, 4th and 5th Fighter Squadrons, 52d Fighter Group with Spitfires transfer from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Le Sers, Tunisia. The 154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with P-39's and P-51's transfers from Sbeitla, Tunisia to Le Sers, Tunisia.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, single B-24's continue snooper strikes, hitting Kahili Airfield twice during the evening. The 68th Fighter Squadron, 347th Fighter Group with P-40's (and some P- 39's) transfers from Guadalcanal to Fiji but continues to operate from Guadalcanal until Dec 43.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In the Bismarck Archipelago, B-24's and B-17's pound the airfields at Rabaul and Gasmata, shipping in the Saint George Channel, and targets of opportunity in the Ubili and Talasea areas. In New Guinea, B-24's and B-17s hit shipping in Hansa Bay, the airfields at Lae and Nubia and Bogia harbor. B-24's, operating individually, attack several targets, scoring hits on the Madang dock area and at Toeal. Japanese planes attack Port Moresby.

TUESDAY, 13 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 15 B-24's, 15 B-25's, 28 P-38's and 20 P-40's fly 11 attacks to Kiska; 43 tons of bombs are dropped on the Main Camp, North Head, and runway. Fighters attack the Main Camp causing large fires, and also strafe aircraft on the beach. Heavy AA fire damages 2 P-38's, 1 of which later crashes into the sea, and 1 B-25.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 9 B-25's bomb the Myitnge bridge without inflicting further damage to the structure. Nine others hit Monywa Airfield. Six P-40's knock out a bridge at Shaduzup.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Sicily, B-24's are dispatched against the harbor at Catania. Total cloud cover prevents visual contact with the target. One drops bombs in the target area, but others jettison their load or return to base without bombing. In the Mediterranean, P-40's fly convoy escort. In Tunisia, the British Eight Army's 10 Corps, continuing N reaches an anti-tank ditch guarding new enemy positions at Enfidaville and unsuccessfully attempts, on a limited scale, to force a retreat before the line can be strengthened. The 488th and 489th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) with B-25's transfer from El Kabrit, Egypt to Medenine, Tunisia.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sicily, B-17's pound the airfields at Castelvetrano and Milo. In Sardinia, P-38's bomb a cruiser at La Maddalena and other shipping at Porto Torres. In Tunisia, B-25's hit Oudna Airfield. Fighters maintain sweeps and armored reconnaissance over NE Tunisia and the Straits of Sicily. During the night of 12/13 Mar, British airplanes bomb Megrine landing ground. HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light) with A-20's transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia. The 58th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group with P-40's transfers from Berteaux, Algeria to Ebba Ksour, Tunisia.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, P-38's and Navy aircraft bomb the airfield at Munda and strafe a barge at Bambatana

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, A-20's bomb and strafe the Labiabi area while a single B-l7 bombs the runway at Finschhafen.

WEDNESDAY, 14 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Betty, Mitsubishi G4M, Navy Type 1 Attack Bomber Blenheim, Bristol (RAF) Hurricane, Hawker (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force) 30 P-40's, 17 P-38's, 9 B-24's and 6 B-25's fly 10 missions to Kiska, bombing and strafing the runway, North Head area, installations, parked seaplanes, and facilities on Little Kiska.

ZONE OF INTERIOR (HQ USAAF) The Weather Wing is activated at Asheville, North Carolina to provide scientific weather information for the USAAF and the rest of the Army. This new wing assumes responsibility from HQ USAAF for the supervision of the Army Air Forces Weather Service which was established in 1937.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, P-40's dropping 1,000 pound (454 kg) bombs, hit airfields at Myitkyina and Manywet, rendering the runways at both unusable.

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In China, P-40's strafe pack horses S of Tengchung, barracks and warehouses in Lungling, and cattle and trucks N of Lungling.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, P-40's fly convoy escort, and carry out fighter sweeps over the battle area as the British Eighth Army's 10 Corps continues to make quick jabs at positions at Enfidaville. These attempts to force an enemy retreat are unsuccessful. The 314th, 315th and 316th Fighter Squadrons, 324th Fighter Group with P-40's transfer from Libya to Tunisia.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sardinia, B-17's bomb the Elmas and Monserrato Airfields. In Tunisia during the night of 13/14 Apr, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) Hurricanes and Blenheims bomb La Sebala Airfield and attack transport on the Tunis-Pont-du-Fahs road, and Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) light and medium bombers hit the Airfields at Sainte-Marie du Zit and Korba. During the day, B-17's bomb El Aouina Airfield. P-38's escort the heavy bombers and fly a bombing and strafing mission against a beached vessel SE of Cape Zebib. A-20's bomb Bordj Toum. Fighter-bombers hit a motor convoy near Grich el Oued and trucks NE of Dechret Ben Saidane and a battery E of Djedeida. Fighters fly reconnaissance and sweeps throughout the Tunisian battle area. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) planes maintain sea reconnaissance and patrols. HQ 52d Fighter Group transfers from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Le Sers, Tunisia. The 441st, 442d and 444th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 320th Bombardment Group (Medium) with B-26B's transfer from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, heavy and medium bombers carry out widespread but unsuccessful attacks on individual enemy vessels. Japanese aircraft carry out a heavy attack on the Milne Bay area, severely damaging 1 vessel, beaching 1 vessel, and hitting 2 others, but doing very little damage to USAAF facilities in the area. AA defenses and the 40+ P-40's and P-38's that intercept the enemy strike claim 14 airplanes shot down. Dick Bong becomes a Double Ace when he gets his 10th kill, a Betty.

THURSDAY, 15 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder F-5, Lockheed Lightning P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss Wellington, Vickers (RAF)

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, reconnaissance over Kiska, Attu, Semichis, and Agattu spots no new enemy activities. Two bomber missions from Adak and 11 fighter missions from Amchitka, composed of 23 B-24's, 20 B-25's, 25 P-38's, and 44 P-40's, hit Kiska; 1 F-5A takes photos; 85 tons of bombs are dropped. Fires result on North Head and Little Kiska. One B-24 is shot down in flames and 4 bombers receive battle damage.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 10 B-25's bomb the Mandalay Marshaling Yard; 9 more bomb the marshaling yard at Ywataung. Eight B-24's hit the Thilawa oil refinery while 7 others hit Prome.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber Command, hit Naples and Messina. In Sicily, B-24's attack Catania and Palermo. In Tunisia, B-25's hit the airfield and area near a fuel dump at Sainte-Marie du Zit. P-40's fly reconnaissance and sea patrol. HQ 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) transfers from Medenine, Tunisia to Sfax, Tunisia. The 515th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with B-24D's transfers from Soluch, Libya to Bengasi, Libya.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Italy, Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) B-26's on armed reconnaissance of the Naples area attack a vessel S of Ustica Island. In Sardinia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Decimomannu, Villacidro, and Elmas Airfields during the night of 14/15 Apr. In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters attack tanks and trucks at Oum EL Djema and a concentration near Sidi Ahmed, while others fly reconnaissance and patrols during the day.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) The 390th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 42d Bombardment Group (Medium) with B-25's arrives on Guadalcanal from the U.S.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In the Bismarck Archipelago, B-17's bomb the airfields at Rabaul and Gasmata. In New Guinea, B-17's bomb the airfield at Lae. The 7th and 8th Fighter Squadrons, 49th Fighter Group with P-40's transfer from Port Moresby, New Guinea to Dobodura, New Guinea.

FRIDAY, 16 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder F-5, Lockheed Lightning P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, Kiska is bombed and strafed 13 times. A total of 13 B-24's, 12 B-25's, 32 P-40's, 29 P-38's, and 2 F-5A's cover targets which include installations in the Holtz Bay area and gun positions on North Head.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, P-40's, bombing a railroad bridge near Mogaung, score a direct hit on the target and blow up both approaches, leaving the bridge temporarily unserviceable. Later in the day the bridge near Pinbaw is demolished by direct hits. Eight B-24's hit the Rangoon Marshaling Yard, 9 B-25's bomb the Thazi rail junction, while 9 more, weathered out of Maymyo, hit rail targets in Mandalay.

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In China, P-40's strafe a group of buildings E of Tenchung.

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force) VIII Bomber Command Mission Number 51: 25 B-24's are dispatched against the Brest, France U-Boat base while 83 B-17's are dispatched against the Lorient, France U-Boat base. 19 B-24's drop 52 tons on Brest at 1337-1338 hours; the B-24's claim 2-3-1 Luftwaffe aircraft; 3 B-24's are lost, 1 is damaged beyond repair and 9 are damaged; casualties are 3 WIA and 31 MIA. 59 B-17's bomb Lorient at 1412-1414 hours dropping 147 tons of bombs; they claim 9-4-2 Luftwaffe aircraft; 1 B-17 is lost and 8 are damaged; casualties are 7 WIA and 10 MIA. The attack is hindered by an effective smoke screen and strong fighter opposition. HQ 96th Bombardment Group (Heavy) arrives at Great Saling, England from the U.S.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Sicily, B-24's attack a tanker in Catania harbor, scoring several hits on the target and in surrounding areas. In Tunisia, fighters fly sea patrol. The British Eighth Army abandons their attempts to force a German retreat from Enfidaville by quick jabs and prepares to launch a full-scale assault during the night of 19/20 Apr. The 83d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) and 488th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 340th Bombardment Group (Medium), both with B-25's, transfer from Medenine, Tunisia to Sfax, Tunisia. The 512th and 513th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with B-24's transfer from Soluch, Libya to Bengasi, Libya;.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb the dock area at Palermo. In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters strafe trucks during the night of 15/16 Apr and during the following day. A-20's and fighter-bombers bomb Djqobel el Raar and concentrations located in various wadis in the battle area. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) aircraft maintain sea reconnaissance and patrols. NASAF B-25's and B-26's hit the Oudns landing ground while P-38's bomb vessels near Cape Zebib and at Cape el Ahmar. The 85th and 86th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with A-20's transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, B-17's bomb Kahili Airfield.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-24's bomb Kaimana, Wewak, Madang, and Lae. B-17's pound shipping at Wewak, leaving 3 vessels sunk or in sinking condition. In Timor, B-25's bomb Vila Salazar.

SATURDAY, 17 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Blenheim, Bristol (RAF) F-5, Lockheed Lightning Liberator, Consolidated (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss Wellington, Vickers (RAF)

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 7 B-24's bomb and score 8 direct hits on the runway and gun emplacements at Attu. One B-24 and 2 F-5A's abort due to weather. 4 B-25's, 31 P-38's, and 14 P-40's hit Kiska 9 times, bombing installations and strafing gun emplacements and 3 parked airplanes.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 7 B-25's bomb the Myitnge bridge, scoring 4 damaging hits. Ten others hit the Myitnge railroad works. Sixteen P-40's damage the bridge at Kamaing, attack the town of Nanyaseik, and score hits on the N approach to the bridge at Namti. Six B-24's damage the S approach to the Pazundaung railroad bridge.

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force) VIII Bomber Command Mission Number 52: 115 B-17's are dispatched against the Focke-Wulf factory at Bremen, Germany the Eighth Air Force's largest mission to date. A mass of fighters attacks during bomb run, shooting down 15 while flak claims another. We claim 63-15-17 Luftwaffe aircraft; 39 B-17's are damaged; casualties are 2 KIA, 4 WIA and 159 MIA. The Commanding General, VIII Fighter Command, expresses the need for 20 fighter groups to neutralize growing German fighter opposition to the Combined Bomber Offensive (CBO).

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Sicily, B-24's (including Liberator Mk II's of the RAF 178 Squadron, under operational control of the IX Bomber Command) bomb Catania. In Tunisia, P-40's fly sweeps, sea patrol, and fighter-bomber missions. HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 486th and 487th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-25's and the 434th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with B-25's transfer from Medenine, Tunisia to Sfax, Tunisia.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sicily, B-17's bomb shipping and docks at Palermo. In Tunisia during the night of 16/17 April, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellington's bomb the N quay in Bizerte harbor. Shortly after noon, B-17's bomb shipping and docks at Ferryville. B-25's hit the town area and marshaling yard at Mateur. Fighters provide escort. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) Blenheims bomb La Sebala Airfield and A-20's hit Ksar Tyr and concentrations NE of Grich el Oued. Fighters fly escort and reconnaissance missions. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) airplanes fly sea patrol and reconnaissance and attack shipping in the Strait of Sicily.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, B-17's during the night of 16/17 Apr again fly a strike against Kahili Airfield. HQ 18th Fighter Group transfers from Espiritu Santo to Guadalcanal.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In the Moluccas, B-24's bomb Amboina. In New Guinea, a single B-24 scores hits on the NW shore of Hollandia Bay.

SUNDAY, 18 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Beaufighter, Bristol Beaufort, Bristol Betty, Mitsubishi G4M, Navy Type 1 Attack Bomber Bf 109, Messerschmitt Bf 110, Messerschmitt Ju 52/3m, Junkers Mc 202, Macchi Folgore (Thunderbolt) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss P-70, Douglas Spitfire, Vickers Supermarine Wellington, Vickers Zeke, Mitsubishi A6M, Navy Type 0 Carrier Fighter

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 22 P-38's (some flown by Royal Canadian Air Force pilots) and 37 P-40's hit Kiska 9 times. The submarine base and gun emplacements on North Head are bombed and gun emplacements near the submarine base are silenced.

CENTRAL PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Seventh Air Force) In the Ellice Islands, the 371st and 372d Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 307th Bombardment Group (Heavy) based at Wheeler Field, Territory of Hawaii with B-24's begin operating from Funafuti.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In China, P-40's strafe an enemy-held supply village SE of Tengchung.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) Off Cap Bon, 46 P-40F's of the 57th Fighter Group's three squadrons (64th, 65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons) and the attached 314th Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group, plus 11 Spitfires of the RAF 92 Squadron flying top cover, take off to patrol. At approximately 1800 hours, they spot 2 Bf 109's and an armada of 65 Ju 52/3m transports heading back to Sicily for more supplies. The transports are in three great vees, covered by 16 Bf 109's and Mc 202's and 5 Bf 110's. The 64th Fighter Squadron and the RAF Spitfires stay high; the remaining 3 squadrons of P-40's attack the Luftwaffe formation and down 24 Ju 53/3m's and 16 fighters; another 35 Ju 52/3m's crash along the coast. In Sicily, B-24's attack Catania. In Tunisia, P-40's fly sweeps, armored reconnaissance, escort, and fighter-bomber missions. B-25's hit landing grounds.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia during the night of 17/18 Ap, RAF Wellingtons bomb the Tunis docks and marshaling yard. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) Blenheims hit the La Marsa landing ground while fighter fly reconnaissance and scramble missions. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) fighters fly reconnaissance and patrols, attacking vessels, troop columns, and truck in the Tunisian coastal area, In Sicily, over 75 B-17's, escorted by P-38's, attack Boccadifalco Airfield and the Palermo Marshaling Yard. In Sardinia, B-25's, escorted by P-38's, hit the Alghero-Fertilia Airfield and shipping at Porto Torres while Beaufighters attack the Decimomannu Airfield.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, Major John W Mitchell leads a flight of 16 P-38's (2 others abort) on a low-level, circuitous, over-water trip from Guadalcanal to a spot up the Bougainville coast from Kahili to intercept the fight of Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, head of the Imperial Japanese Navy, who, according to US intelligence, is on an inspection trip in the S Pacific and is due in Ballale at 0945 local. Admiral Yamamoto's well-known punctuality is calculated to allow the interception to take place at 0935 local at a point 35 mi (56 km) from Kahili. Two hours and 15 minutes after takeoff at 0725 local, as the P-38's streak toward Bougainville at almost sea level, a flight of 2 Betty bombers and 6 Zekes appears just ahead. The 4-aircraft attack section under Captain Thomas G. Lanphier, Jr bores in. The Zekes spot the attacking P-38's at about 1 mi (0.6 km) and try in vain to cut off the attack as the bombers attempt to escape. In the air battle, Captain Lanphier and First Lieutenant Rex T. Barber shoot down the bomber carrying Yamamoto.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In Timor, B-25's bomb the airfield at Penfoei. In New Guinea, single B-24's hit the Finschhafen and Saidor areas. A detachment of the 6th Night Fighter Squadron, 15th Fighter Group based at Kipapa, Territory of Hawaii begins operating from New Guinea with P-70's.

MONDAY, 19 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Blenheim, Bristol P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 9 missions involving 14 B-24's, 12 B-25's, 32 P-40's, and 23 P-38's are flown to Kiska. The first mission is weathered out of the primary target, Attu, and directed to Kiska. Bombing and strafing concentrates on 4 grounded ships and the submarine base area where fires are started. One ship, believed to serve as a power station, is set afire.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) P-40's hit bridges in Burma, seriously damaging the Namti railroad bridge between Mogaung and Myitkyina. Nine B-24's bomb Rangoon's main railroad station.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, B-25's hit landing grounds and defensive positions, and P-40's escort bombers and fly fighter sweeps as the British Eighth Army opens an assault on Enfidaville positions.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia during the night of 18/19 Apr, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) Blenheims bomb La Marsa landing ground and roads nearby, and attack activity on beach at Reyville. During the day, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb shipping at Tunis. B-25's and A -20's raid the La Sebala Airfield. Fighter-bombers attack tanks in the battle area. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) maintains sea reconnaissance and patrols as far as Sardinia and sea approaches to Naples. NAAF aircraft claim over 100 aircraft destroyed during the day.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) Single medium or heavy bombers bomb airfields at Hollandia and Lae, New Guinea and Cape Gloucester and Gasmata in the Bismarck Archipelago.

TUESDAY, 20 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-18, Douglas Bolo B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 10 bombing and strafing missions by 15 B-24's, 16 B-25's, 10 P-38's, and 32 P-40's hit shipping in the harbor at Kiska and gun positions in North Head. Other targets include buildings in the Main Camp area and the runway.

CARIBBEAN (AAF Antisubmarine Command) The 7th Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy), 26th Antisubmarine Wing based at Jacksonville, Florida with B-18's begins operating from Edinburgh Field, Trinidad.

CENTRAL PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Seventh Air Force) In the Gilberts, 22 B-24's, from Funafuti, carry out a photo-bombing mission over Nauru. Several direct hits on runways and the dispersal areas are claimed.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 8 B-25's bomb the engine sheds at Thazai.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, P-40's fly sweeps, reconnaissance, and fighter-bomber missions as British ground forces take Enfidaville E and push N. Forces on the left are checked by stubborn enemy resistance at Djebel Garci.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's and B-25's bomb the landing grounds of Mabtouha, La Marsa, La Sebala, Sidi Ahmed, Creteville, and near Protville. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters fly escort, carry out reconnaissance, and attack various Tunisian airfields. The Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) continues sea patrols and reconnaissance as far-reaching as the approaches to Naples, Italy.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-17's bomb Wewak, Nubia, and Boram Airfields and shipping off Wewak. B-24's bomb Kaimana and targets of opportunity on Kendari Island in the Celebes.

WEDNESDAY, 21 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Liberator, Consolidated (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-39, Bell Airacobra P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, Commander North Pacific Forces (NORPACFOR) places all Army and Navy Air Forces [Task Group (TG) 16.1] under Brigadier General William O. Butler, Commanding General Eleventh Air Force. The Army Air Striking Unit (Eleventh Air Force) is designated Task Unit 16.1.1 (TU 16.1.1) and the Naval Air Search Unit (Patrol Wing Four) is designated TU l6.l.2. Two P-38's take off for Kiska but abort the mission.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 8 B-25's bomb the railroad yards at Maymyo, and 9 more bomb the area around the Myitnge bridge. In Thailand, 16 B-24's are dispatched to bomb the Bangsue Arsenal and other targets in Bangkok, but only 4 reach the target area and loose bombs over the city.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber Command, bomb Naples. In Tunisia, P-40's bomb and strafe barges along the coast. The British Eighth Army meets such fierce opposition at Takrouna that General Montgomery decides to confine the offensive to the coastal region.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, weather prevents completion of any missions by the Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF). Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and A-20's hit landing grounds and military traffic on roads, fly sweeps and armed reconnaissance, and attack ground forces and aircraft in the Medjez el Bab-Goubellat area where an enemy counterattack by armored and infantry columns during the night of 20/21 Apr ends in costly failure. The 346th and 347th Fighter Squadrons, 350th Fighter Group with P-39's swap bases; the 346th moves from La Senia, Algeria to Orleansville, Algeria; the 347th moves from Orleansville to Le Sers, Tunisia.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-25's bomb Kaimana and Laga. Single B-17's attack coastal villages in NE New Guinea and hit Ubili and Gasmata in the Bismarck Archipelago.

THURSDAY, 22 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder P-40, Curtiss

CENTRAL PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Seventh Air Force) In the Ellice Islands, the airfield on Funafuti is bombed twice during the night of 21/22 Apr by the Japanese. Two B-24's are destroyed and 5 others damaged.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, P-40's fly fighter sweeps over the battle area along the Gulf of Hammamet.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's bomb 2 landing grounds near Protville. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and A-20's fly sweeps, reconnaissance, and patrols and attack positions at Djebel el Ahmera (Longstop Ridge), Sidi Nsir, Djebel el Ajred (Bald Hill), and other points as the British First Army's 5 Corps launches the start of the final phase of the assault on Tunis and Bizerte, attacking on a front N and S of Medjez el Bab. In Italy, B-26's hit the harbor at Carloforte on San Pietro Island.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) HQ 42d Bombardment Group (Medium) arrives in Fiji from the U.S.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, A-20's and B-25's pound the Lababia-Duali area on Nassau Bay. Single B-17's bomb the Dobo and Nubia area, and strafe Ubili in the Bismarck Archipelago.

FRIDAY, 23 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS U.S.: The Combined Chiefs of Staff (CCS) issues a directive making British Lieutenant General Frederick E. Morgan Chief of Staff to Supreme Allied Commander (Designate). This title, COSSAC, describes both the office and the man who heads it. COSSAC is the seed of Supreme Headquarters, Allied Expeditionary Force (SHAEF). It is charged with continuance of planning for the eventual invasion of Western Europe.

CENTRAL PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Seventh Air Force) In the Gilberts, 12 B-24's from Funafuti attack Tarawa Atoll, bombing fuel storage and barracks areas. After this mission, the 371st and 372d Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 307th Bombardment Group (Heavy) cease operating from Funafuti and return to their base at Wheeler Field and Kahuku, Territory of Hawaii respectively. The 78th Fighter Squadron, 15th Fighter Group with P-40's transfers from Midway Island to Barking Sands, Territory of Hawaii.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 9 B-25's bomb the Mandalay warehouse area. Five P-40's damage the approaches to the bridge at Shaduzup.

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In China, P-40's strafe a 15-truck convoy SW of Lungling.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, B-25's attack a landing ground, troops, and artillery N of Enfidaville. P-40's fly escort, sweeps, and fighter-bomber missions in the battle area.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's and B-26's bomb vehicles and the railroad at Mateur, the Mateur-Bedja road and Arbatax harbor in Italy. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, A-20's, and medium bombers carry out a large number of missions against positions in NE Tunisia and particularly along the battleline area from near Pont-du-Fahs N to the Mediterranean as the US II Corps begins a drive on Bizerte in the Jefna-Sidi Meftah area. In the Mediterranean, B-17's attack vessels N of Sicily.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) The 390th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 42d Bombardment Group (Medium) with B-25's transfers from New Caledonia to Fiji.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, single B-24's bomb the airfield and town area at Finschhafen and score a direct hit on a cargo vessel SE of Kavieng in the Bismarck Archipelago.

SATURDAY, 24 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc A-29, Lockheed Hudson B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell Liberator, Consolidated (RAF) P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss Wellington, Vickers (RAF)

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 2 P-38's bomb Kiska and strafe personnel near Mutton Cove. Weather cancels other missions.

CARIBBEAN (AAF Antisubmarine Command) The 23d Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy), 26th Antisubmarine Wing with A-29's returns to it's base at Drew Field, Florida after operating from Batista Field, Cuba since 28 Feb 43.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In Burma, 9 B-25's, escorted by 11 P-40's, bomb the Namtu mines and railroad yards. 7 of the P-40's strafe the mine and smelter area. In China, 13 P-40's intercept 25 fighters near Lingling and shoot down 5.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber Command, bomb Naples. In Tunisia, P-40's escort bombers, fly sweeps, and carry out fighter-bomber operations against troops in the battle area N of Enfidaville.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the N quay at Bizerte harbor during the night of 23/24 Apr. Bad weather the following morning cancels NASAF operations. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, although hampered by bad weather, attack guns, troops, and trucks in the battle area from Pont-du-Fahs N to the sea. Fierce ground fighting continues in the Jefna area. The 99th Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force with P-40's arrives at Casablanca, French Morocco from the U.S. The 99th is the first black USAAF unit to serve overseas.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In the Bismarck Archipelago, single B-24's bomb the runway at Cape Gloucester. In the Celebes, B-24's bomb Kendari Airfield. In New Guinea, A-20's bomb and strafe positions in the Mubo area. Single B-24's attack Lae, Gumbi, and Singor. In Timor, B-25's pound Dili Airfield.

SUNDAY, 25 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell F-5, Lockheed Lightning P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 15 B-24's, 12 B-25's, 32 P-40's, 23 P-38's, and 1 F-5A fly 12 missions to Kiska and Attu. Targets include Holtz Bay, North Head, South Head, the beach areas, the runway, shipping, and the submarine base.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 11 B-25's attack the Ywataung railroad yards and vicinity. The 492d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 7th Bombardment Group (Heavy) transfers with B-24's from Bishnupur, India to Panagarh, India.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, B-25's attack landings grounds, concentrations, and vehicles N and NW of Enfidaville. P-40's escort bombers and fly fighter sweeps over the battle area.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, weather prevents Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) bombing missions. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters attack positions and vehicles in the battle area. A-20's and medium bombers bomb the S landing ground at Soliman, positions NW of Enfidaville, and several other points in the battle area as Allied ground forces continue their advance on Bizerte and Tunis. HQ 2d Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 20th, 49th, and 96th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy) with B-17's arrive at Navarin, Algeria from the US. HQ 319th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 437, and 438th, 439th and 440th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-26B's transfer from Oujda, French Morocco to Rabat Sale, French Morocco. The group has been undergoing reorganization and training since Feb 43.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, 3 B-24's fly a harassing strike during the night of 25/26 Apr against Kahili Airfield. 12 others bomb the same target later during the night. The 394th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 5th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with B-24's, based on Fiji, begins operating from Guadalcanal.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-17's bomb Wewak Airfield and the towns of Madang and Saidor. A-20's bomb and strafe positions at Green's Hill. Single B-24's hit airfields at Madang and Finschhafen.

TUESDAY, 27 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 1 B-25 unsuccessfully investigates a reported submarine 4 mi (6.4 km) W of Bay Island. Four P-38's bomb the Main Camp, then scout Buldir.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 19 B-25's bomb the engine sheds at Thazi. P-40's hit positions S of Sarenghkyet.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Tunisia, P-40's bomb and strafe concentrations N and NW of Enfidaville.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Sardinia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's, with P-38 escort, bomb Villacidro Airfield. In Tunisia, NASAF B-25's hit shipping W of Zembra Island off Cap Bon. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) planes (fighters, A-20's, and medium bombers) hit numerous tactical targets in NE Tunisia, including Sidi Ahmed Airfield and troops, tank, trucks, and gun positions at Massicault, on the Pont-du-Fahs road, Ksar Tyr, Bir Meherga, and other points along the battleline. HQ 2d Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 20th, 49th and 96th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy) with B-17's transfer from Navarin, Algeria to Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria. The Group's fourth squadron, the 429th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), arrives at Chateaudun-du-Rhumel from the US today. The group will fly it's first combat mission tomorrow.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, B-24's pound Vila and the airfield on Ballale Island. B-17's hit Kahili Airfield.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In the Bismarck Archipelago, heavy bombers, operating individually, attack vessels off Cape Gloucester, Cape Goltz and Gasmata. In New Guinea, A-20's bomb and strafe forces in the Green's Hill-Mubo area. B-25's bomb a village near Beru. Heavy bombers, operating individually, attack vessels NNW of Dobo and Nabire and small vessels and targets of opportunity in the Marienberg, Wewak, and Finschhafen areas.

WEDNESDAY, 28 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 9 B-25's pound the docks at Monywa; 10 others attack river traffic in the Katha vicinity.

CHINA (Fourteenth Air Force) In China, about 20 Japanese medium bombers and a like number of fighters attack airfields at Kunming. High winds prevent bombing accuracy and little damage is done to the airfield. Several Chinese villagers near the field are killed. Defending P-40's shoot down 10 aircraft.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, B-24's attack the harbor at Naples and the ferry slip at Messina. Gunners claim 5 fighters destroyed. In Tunisia, P-40's escort bombers and attack troops in the battle area N of Enfidaville.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's and P-38's attack 2 vessels off NE Tunisia in the Straits of Sicily. Other B-25's hit Tunis shipping while B-26's bomb the landing grounds at Mabouban and Mabtouha. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) aircraft bomb concentrations near Saint-Cyprien and Ksar Tyr, shipping off Tunis, and numerous positions and vehicles along the Tunisian battleline and surrounding areas as the US 9th Infantry Division continues W astride the Sedjenane River and the 1st and 34th Infantry Divisions continue to face fierce opposition S of Jefna in Sidi Meftah area.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, 3 B-24's continue snooper missions over Bougainville, bombing the airfield at Kahili.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In New Guinea, B-25's attack 2 vessels NNW of Dobo. Single B-17's hit buildings N of Finschhafen Airfield, Wilwilan village, and targets of opportunity along the coast of NE New Guinea from the Nankina River to Mur. HQ 380th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 528th, 529th, 530th and 531st Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy) arrive in Australia from the U.S. Group HQ, and the 528th and 530th Squadrons are based at Fenton; the 529th and 531st are at Manbulloo. The group is assigned to the Fifth Air Force but will be attached to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) until Jan 45. One of it's primary missions is the training of RAAF crews in operating the B-24. The group will fly it's first mission on 21 May 43.

FRIDAY, 30 APRIL 1943

AIRCRAFT MENTIONED IN THIS REPORT: A-20, Douglas Havoc B-17, Boeing Flying Fortress B-24, Consolidated Liberator B-25, North American Mitchell B-26, Martin Marauder Bf 109, Messerschmitt P-38, Lockheed Lightning P-40, Curtiss

AMERICAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force) In the Aleutians, 4 B-25's, 17 P-38's, and 7 P-40's fly 4 missions to Kiska. Only the P-38's get through and blast Gertrude Cove, Main Camp, the submarine base and a ship.

CARIBBEAN (Sixth Air Force) The XXXVI Fighter Command, based at Waller Field, Trinidad is disbanded.

CHINA-BURMA-INDIA THEATER OF OPERATIONS

BURMA-INDIA (Tenth Air Force) In Burma, 16 B-25's pound the Gokteik Viaduct, damaging the N end. Four others bomb the Maymyo railroad yards. Five B-24's bomb the Sule Pagoda wharves at Rangoon. Four P-40's and a B-25 hit Mohnyin, while 6 P-4O's attack a camp S of Weshi.

MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force) In Italy, B-24's attack the Messina ferry; bombs hit the target area and nearby marshalling yard and the city area. In the Mediterranean, P-4O's fly fighter-bomber missions against shipping with excellent results, claiming 1 destroyer and 3 other vessels sunk, and 2 destroyers and 2 boats damaged. Fighters claim 5 Bf 109's shotdown; 3 P-40's are lost.

WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force) In Tunisia, Northwest Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's and P-38's hit shipping off Tunisia while B-26's strike shipping near Cap Bon and the Tunis-Medjez el Bab highway. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, A-20's, and medium bombers, hit positions near Mateur, Bir Meherga, and Ksar Tyr, concentrations near Furna, shipping in the Gulf of Tunis and near Cap Bon, and attack isolated vehicles and troops along the battleline as the US II Corps makes substantial gains in the Jefna area. The 97th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with A-20's transfers from Thelepte, Tunisia to Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia.

SOUTH PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Thirteenth Air Force) In the Solomons, 5 B-17's bomb a bivouac area and revetments at Kahili Airfield.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER OF OPERATIONS (Fifth Air Force) In the Bismarck Archipelago, single B-24's bomb Lae and airfields at Cape Gloucester and Gasmata.

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