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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 1:55:29 GMT 12
Struck 16 June 1944.
TARGET: Malaguna Supply Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb & Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, inst. fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0815; T.O.T. 1000; Landed 1120.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 18 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: A/C # N.Z. 2520 was hit by 20 mm fire in the centre of the bomb-bay doors. There were 3 holes in the doors, the largest being 4" in diameter. An unexploded 20 mm shell was found inside the bomb bay doors.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached from N.N.W. and around Tawai Point at 15,000', pushed over at 11,000'/12,000' and released over Target at 5000'/6000'; the a/c then turned right & retired out into Talili Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 48 x 500 lb. bombs carried, 42 were hits in area, and 6 were Jettisoned. Strafing was carried out going in and during retirement.
WEATHER: En route - 2-3/10th Towering Cumulus, base 4000'/5000', going up to 12,000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Heavies N.W. of Rabaul town & West of the Target area were firing accurately & with moderate intensity. Moderate & fairly accurate M/G fire from Talili Bay. Autos North of the Target were fairly accurate & of moderate intensity. Meagre & inaccurate Heavy fire from North of Lakunai R/W. Meagre & fairly accurate Auto fire from Cape Liguan. 2. Enemy Shipping: A light-coloured barge, approximately 100' long, was seen lying close inshore in Escape Bay, West of Praed Point. The barge was partly hidden by overhanging bushes. 3. Enemy Activity: None. 4. Condition of Target after Attack: The area was well-covered with smoke & debris. 1 TBF obtained 2 direct hits on the large warehouse at the Northern end of the Target Area, and debris was blown sky-high. Black smoke was later observed going up to 1000'. 5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was again very good. 2 SBD bombs were seen to hit very close to the large warehouse & several bombs were reported to have gone on the 5 Autos North of the area. No cessation of fire was reported. 6. Miscellaneous Reports: 3 small yellow buoys were seen floating on the water in Talili Bay 1 mile N.E. of Kabagada Point. An oil slick, approximately 6 miles in length, was seen 5 miles N.W. of Buka Passage. 1 TBF pilot saw an SBD flying directly ahead after passing over the Target, it later hit the water about the middle of Simpson Harbour. The a/c hit the water, made a long bounce, and disappeared. No crew were seen to get out. Another SBD was observed going out into Talili Bay with smoke pouring out of the a/c.
A/C No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott . . 511 Willcox Stevenson, Claris . . 512 Jackson Smith, Walker EC . . 508 Stevenson Noman, Sole . . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham . . 517 Le Lievre Goodison, Alcock . . 525 Hannah Cameron, Arnesen . . 523 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker, A.F. . . 526 Halford Waters, Blaikie . . 520 Smart Logan, Dixon . . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams . . 533 Kissell Scott, K.R., Brown
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 1:45:38 GMT 12
16 June 1944
18 SBD (1x1000) and 12 TBF (4x500) hit the south third of Rabaul #1 and gun positions at 1000. Fifteen SBD's reporting, claimed 15x1000 dropped in the target area. TBF's dropped 42x500. One SBD crashed into Simpson Harbor. The crew, 1st. Lt. Major Alford, pilot and Corporal Gene T. Baler, gunner are missing. AA fire, principally from Rabaul Town and Talili Bay, was moderate to intense, inaccurate to accurate. 4 PV's made a return flight this morning from Nadzab searching for a missing B-24 enroute and reported negative results. The Able search from Numa Numa to Amun Point, Bougainville PV dropped 3x500 GP and 2x500 M69 incendiaries on northern Bougainville and Buka targets, destroying 6 huts, results otherwise unobserved. The Charlie search from Numa Numa to Motupena Point dropped 1x500 GP on a garden at Aku, and returned all other bombs when suitable targets not located. Some strafing was done in the Kieta area, results unobserved. The PV on the Torokina-Rabaul sweep made a two hour search for possible survivors of the downed SBD, which was unsuccessful. The Rabaul ship count was negative. Of 4 TBF's on the Potato Run, two were turned back by weather. One sprayed gardens at Tairogei, and the other released prematurely over Kateteiora. Two TBF's made an experimental bombing, each with 4x200, with generally unsatisfactory results. Two PV(N)'s on the night Rabaul patrol had negative results. One bogey, which was picked up by PT's, disappeared before interception could be made.
On Hand Available SBD 20 20 TBF 19 18 PV 10 7 PV(N) 7 3
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 1:38:12 GMT 12
Carried out - 15 June 1944
TARGET: Garden Plots (A) Local, Experimental within the perimeter; (B) at Kurur; (C) at Sarime.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF. (B) F/Lt J. Hannah, RNZAF. (C) F/O R. Lamason, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c, on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: On all 3 Flights - 75 gallons of Diesel oil in special bomb-bay tanks.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1008; T.O.T. -; Landed 1028. (B) . . 1343; . . 1405; . . 1435. (C) . . 1625; . . 1645; . . 1710.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The a/c sprayed from approximately 60'. Strafing was carried out from various heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: (A) One run was made over an experimental 3-acre patch within the perimeter. The correct amount of oil was sprayed on the crops with one run. Two runs would have made an excessive coverage. 1 a/c failed to release. (B) The large garden at Kurur was found to be abandoned, so both a/c sprayed small plots in the vicinity. Strafing was carried out between Sepaai Mission and Sarimo. Results were unobserved. (C) A plot of about 1 1/2 acres E. of Sarime was given good coverage by 1 a/c. One a/c failed to release oil. Sepaai and Sarime were Strafed by both a/c.
WEATHER: (A) Clear. (B) En route - Clear up coast; cloud over hills. Over target - Clear. (C) En route - 6-7/10th scattered cumulus, base 3000'. Over target - Overcast.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: None. 4. Miscellaneous Reports: 25 Friendly Troops were seen marching in single line, in a Northerly direction, along the beach near Cape Moltke, South of Cape Moltke, inland about 2 miles, 3 huts were observed, 2 being under construction.
A/C No. Pilot Crew (A) 19 Adams Davis, Scott SC N.Z. 2545 + Willcox Stephenson, Claris (B) N.Z. 2545 Hannah Cameron, Arneson 19 Halford Waters, Blaikie (C) N.Z. 2545 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh 19 + Jackson Smith, Walker EC
+ DID NOT RELEASE.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 1:27:06 GMT 12
Struck - 15 June 1944.
TARGET: AA Target C, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c - each loaded with 1 x 2000 lb. bomb, 1/100th sec. fuze. TIMES: T.O. 0739; T.O.T. 0925; Landed 1050.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 18 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The Formation approached from the East at 14,000' ober Kabanga Bay, turned Right at Mokurapan Plantation & pushed over at 10,000', releasing at 3000'/ 4000'. The first 3 sections retired Northwards, West of Rapopo into Blanche Bay, and the fourth section who were on the Southern Heavies, retired South of Rapopop into Tamalili Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 12 x 2000 lb. bombs carried, 11 were hits in area and 1 was Jettiesoned over Cape St. George. Several a/c Strafed as far as the coast during retirement and 3 a/c strafed the South side of Gredner Island. Ressults of Strafing unobserved.
WEATHER: En route - 2/10th Cumulus, base 2000' Over target - Clear. OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: The only A/A over the Target Area was seen during the retirement & this was meagre & inaccurate fire from a couple of Heavies in the position North of the area. Meagre & inaccurate Auto fire was observed by 2 a/c coming from the Southern side of Gredner Island. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: None. 4. Condition of Target after Attack: The area was well-covered by bomb bursts & dust. Dust & debris were seen flying up into the air from hits in the centre Auto positions. 5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination was reported, with SBD bombs falling in close proximity to all gun positions, especially the Northern Heavies & the Eastern central Auto positions. 6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
A/C No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 508 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus . . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham . . 512 Kilgour Fuller, Harrison . . 530 Smart Logan, Dixon . . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams . . 542 Kissel Scott KR, Bower . . 535 Register Murphy, Gillanders . . 516 Stephenson Weir, Walker J . . 525 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell . . 509 Stevenson Sole . . 510 McGechie Henderson . . 513 Le Lievre Alcock
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 11:23:19 GMT 12
Carried out - 14 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at Wariki, N. Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) S/Ldr. M. Wilkes, RNZAF. (B) F/O R.H. Lamason, RNZAF. (C) P/O R.A. Falconer, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on Flights (A) & (C); 1 a/c on Flight (B)
A/C & LOADING: (A) & (C) 2 a/c each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks; (B) 1 a/c loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil, & 1 SBD escort.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1005; T.O.T. 1040; Landed 1115. (B) .. 1445; .. 1515; .. 1545. (C) .. 1640; .. 1710; .. 1750.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 1 SBD escort, on Flight (B).
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The oil was sprayed from a height of 50'/60'. Strafing was carried out, from tree-top height to an altitude of 400'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: (A) Complete coverage was obtained on approximately 2 acres. A/C Strafed from Sarime to Sipaai Mission & villages at Wariki were given a few bursts. (B) Good Coverage by one a/c. 6-8 small gardens in close proximity were sprayed. Strafing was carried out from Ruri Bay Northwards. The SBD escort Strafed a white marker on the beach slightly N. of Wariki, & huts in N. Wariki from tree-top height. (C) About 6 small gardens S. of Wariki were given a good coverage from tree-top height. Strafing was carried out against native villages below Ruri Bay, road above Ruri Bay & huts at Metetsiora.
WEATHER: (A) En route - 2-3/10th Strato-Cumulus, base 4000', tops 6000'/7000'. Over target - Fairly clear. (B) En route - 8/10th over hills; heavy up the whole coast. Over target - Ceiling 2500' -scattered cumulus. (C) 1000' ceiling over Target.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre but fairly accurate Auto fire was encountered at Wariki on Flight (A). No A/A was observed on Flights (B) & (C). 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: (A) About 5 groups of huts, set out systematically in rows, were observed S. of Wariki; they did not appear to be native huts. A 2000' high column of white smoke was seen in the vicinity of Tsumpets. (B) White camp fire smoke was seen at Sarime Plantation. A white object, presumed to be a marker, was observed on the beach slightly North of Wariki.
A/C No. Pilot Crew (A) N.Z. 545 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus 20 Rollo Walker, Powell (B) N.Z. 545 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh SBD Anderson (C) N.Z. 545 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham 19 Stephenson Weir, Walker J.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 11:17:47 GMT 12
Struck - 14 June 1944.
TARGET: Rabaul 105 (A & B) Suppy Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c attacked - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Inst. fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 0745; T.O.T. 0935; Landed 1110.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 18 SBDs. ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached from the N.W. at 14,000', pushed over at 8000'/10,000' & released at 3000'/4000', retiring out through Simpson Harbour between Matupi Island & Vulcan Crater. The formation rallied at Cape Gazelle.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: All of the 40 x 500 lb. bombs carried were hits in the Target Area. A/C Strafed going in and coming out of the Target Area, and a couple of a/c Strafed Gredner Island. WEATHER: En route - 2/10th scattered cumulus. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Auto positions S. of the Target Area, at Vulcan Crater and Praed Point, & Autos & Heavies on Matupi Island were firing, intensely at first, later easing down to moderate from Matupi Island, & meagre from other positions. Fire varied from fairly accurate to inaccurate, guns on Matupi Island being the most accurate. Black puffs were seen coming up from Raluana Point, & white puffs from the Western side of Rabaul town. Fairly accurate M/G fire was seen by one pilot coming from the Southern side of Gredner Island. Heavy & Auto fire in the Target Area was lower than usual - 2000'/5000'. Fire from Heavies on Matupi Island followed one a/c out into Blanche Bay. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: None. 4. Condition of Target after Attack: Black smoke & debris were seen over the Target Area, good coverage being reported with the greatest concentration of bombs in the central section of the area. Heavy black smoke covered the area & 3 large columns of smoke were seen, the centre one going up to 1000', during retirement. 5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination was reported. Very good SBD hits were seen in the area & 2 damaging hits on the 2 Autos South of the area were also reported, causing a cessation of fire from this position. 6. Miscellaneous Reports: About a dozen small parachute bombs were seen floating at 3000'/4000' N. of Vulcan Crater. White parachutes, with black bombs attached. Thin pencils of smoke were seen coming up from Matupi Island, presumably from Autos.
A/C No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott . . 510 Willcox Stevenson, Claris . . 511 Jackson Smith, Walker EC . . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch . . 522+ +Stevenson Buckingham, Sole . . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody . . 525 Hannah Cameron, Arnesen . . 523 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker AF . . 508 Halford Waters, Blaikie . . 540 Holmes Lesley, Alexander . . 512 Le Lievre Goodison, Alcock . . 514+ +Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
+ Returned to Base.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 11:13:25 GMT 12
Just writing it as it is reported, sometimes hard to make out.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 10:05:23 GMT 12
Carried out - 13 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at (A) Kunapopo; (B) Torongen (C) Kaviroro, Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) & (C) F/O T. Stevenson; (B) P/O F.W. Holmes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: (A) & (B) Flights - 1 a/c loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil & 1 a/c escort. (C) 2 a/c each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1043; T.O.T. 1105; Landed 1135. (B) .. 1340; .. 1410; .. 1445. (C) .. 1635; .. 1705; .. 1745.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: (A) Spray was released at 60' on this flight (B) .. .. .. .. 800'/100' .. .. (C) .. .. .. .. 20'/30' .. .. Strafing was carried out from low-level, up to 700'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: (A) Several runs were made over Porapora, the scheduled gardens, but the a/c would not release the oil. On the way home the pilot made runs over small gardens at Kunapopo & the spray released. Height 60'. Personnel & bush around the edge of the gardens at Porapora were Strafed 3 times from low level. Sarime Plantation was Strafed. (B) Heavy rain North of Matetsiora prevented the a/c from reaching Porapora so a small garden of approximately 1 1/2 acres at Torongen was sprayed from a height of 100'. Slit trenches on the shore N.E. of Lalum were Strafed, & Strafing was carried out at Lalum & Torongen. (C) Good coverage, from a height of 20'/30', of 2 to 3 acres of gardens at Kaviroro was made by both a/c. Strafing was carried out in the vicinity of the gardens. Results of all Strafing were unobserved.
WEATHER: (A) En route - Clear. Over target - Clear. (B) En route - Clear as far as Lalum; heavy rain from Lalum to Matetsiora. Cloud over hills. Over target - Fairly clear. 2/10th scattered Strat-Cumulus, base 2000'. (C) En route - 7-8/10th lowering cumulus over Ranges, base 3000', Tops up to 15,000'. Over Target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: (A) During the second run over Porapora gardens, 3 personnel dressed in khaki were seen running into the bush round the edge of the gardens. (B) 4 or 5 slit trenches were observed on the coast line N.E. of Lalum. (C) 4 Serviceable native canoes were seen on the shore by Tenekau Plantation.
Red-roofed huts which appeared well-battered by bombing & strafing were observed at Keriwini. A high column of white smoke was observed in the hills about 8 miles West of Kaviroro.
A/C No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 513 Stevenson Harrison . . 525 + Rollo Walker MJ, Powell B. N.Z. 513 Holmes Alexander . . 508 + Le Lievre Harrison C. N.Z. 513 Stevenson Sole 20 Rollo Powell
+ Escort - no oil.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 9:57:52 GMT 12
Struck - 13 June 1944.
TARGET: AA Target C, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 11 a/c - each loaded with 1 x 2000 lb. bombs, 8-11 seconds delay.
TIMES: T.O. 0745; T.O.T. 0935; Landed 1055.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 18 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The Formation approached at 14,000' from the East over Kabanga Bay, turned Right at Gunanur Plantation & pushed over at 11,000'. releasing at 3500'/4000'. The first three sections carried on in a Northerly direction over the Target Area, & retired West of Rapopo into Blanche Bay. The fourth section retired South of Rapopo into Tamalili Bay. All sections rallied into formation at Cape Gazelle.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 11 x 2000 lb. bombs carried, 10 were hits in the area and 1 was Jettisoned. Several a/c Strafed during retirement, 1 a/c Strafed Gredner Island, & 1 a/c Strafed Tamalili Bay. Results of Strafing unobserved.
WEATHER: En route - 2/10th scattered Cumulus, otherwise clear. Over Target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: All Known Heavy & Auto Positions were firing moderately as the a/c approached but fire was intense during the attack. The Target Area was blamketted by a Barrage, Heavy at 8000'/ 9000', and Auto at 4000'/5000'. Light Auto, meagre and inaccurate, from a position North of Rapopo. One pilot flying at a height of 50?' South of Gredner Island, observed Auto fire, bursting on his port side. The fire was meagre but accurate. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: None. 4. Condition of Target after Attack: The area appeared well-covered with bomb burst and dust. 5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination was reported, with damaging hits by SBDs on the 2 Auto positions. The last 2 TBFs out, reported a cessation of fire from the Right-hand Auto position. No cessation of fire from the other positions. 6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
A/C No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 508 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus . . 517 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh . . 514 : :Kilgour Fuller, Harrison . . 510 Hannah Cameron, Arnesen . . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody . . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham . . 542 Adams Davies, Scott . . 510 Willcox Stevenson, Claris . . 512 Jackson Smith, Walker E.C. . . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch . . 545 Register Murphy, Gillanders . . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker J.
: Returned to Base - Did not attack.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 16:08:34 GMT 12
Carried out - 12 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at Ruri Bay, on all 3 Flights. MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) F/O I. McGechie, RNZAF. (B) F/Sgt L.F. Le Lievre, RNZAF. (C) F/O T.M. Stevenson, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 1 a/c on (A); 2 a/c on (B) & (C)
A/C & LOADING: On 2 Flights 2 a/c & on 1 Flight 1 a/c - all loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1010; T.O.T. 1040; Landed 1110 (B) .. .1330; T.O.T. 1400; .. 1435 (C) . . 1630; T.O.T. 1655; .. 1730
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 1 SBD on Flight (A).
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The a/c sprayed from heights varying from 50'/70'. Strafing was carried out from varying heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: All a/c released oil on all flights and good coverage was reported. (A) & (B) Flights covered 2 plots of a total area of 2-3 acres, just West of Ruri Bay. (C) Flight covered a plot of 4 acres 1 mile South from Ruri Bay. Strafing - (A) Trees & perimeter of gardens. (B) N.E. of Lalum, Puto & Matetsiora. (C) In vicinity of gardens. No results from Strafing observed.
WEATHER: (A) En route - 2/10th scattered Cumulus, base 3000'. Over Target - Clear. (B) En route - Clear on Coast, cloud over hills. Over target - Clear. (C) En route - Cloud over Buka, base 2000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: (A) Several well-worn tracks from clearings into thick bush on the Northern side of Ruri Bay. (B) 17 natives at Kaviki. (C) 12 natives were seen in a large clearing at Ruri Bay. They quickly disappeared when they saw the a/c. 4. Observation of Garden Plots: (B) Gardens at Papas sprayed previously have turned brown over 2/3 of the area & appear to be well dried up. Two patches at Tsumpets - 1 was beginning to turn brown and the other was still green. A New Plot of approximately 3 acres was observed 3 miles East of Puto. A lean-to thatch shelter was seen in the centre of the garden.
A/C No. Pilot Crew (A) N.Z. 513 McGechie Henderson (B) N.Z. 513 Le Lievre Alcock 19 Hannah Arnesen (C) 20 Stevenson Norman, Sole N.Z. 513 Falconer Ripley
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 14:55:01 GMT 12
Carried out - 9 June 1944
TARGET: Garden Plots at (A) Tsumpets, (B) & (C) Tokapa, North Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens and strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT LEADER: F/S L.S. Le Lievre, R.N.Z.A.F.
SQUADRON: N.Z.T.B.-31 - 2 a/c on all flights.
A/C & LOADING: On all three flights - 2 a/c each loaded with 75 gallons of diesel oil in special bomb bay tank.
TIMES: A. T.O. 1005; T.O.T. 1030; Landed 1100. B. T.O. 1340; T.O.T. 1410; Landed 1443. C. T.O. 1640; T.O.T. 1710; Landed 1745.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The a/c sprayed from an altitude of 50/75' on all flights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: (A) Tsumpets Gardens. (2-3 acres in 3 small areas.) Both a/c released the oil and the area was well covered. This area has had 3 coverings of oil recently. Huts and gardens at Papas, Tsumpets and Baniu Harbour and huts at Kunapope were strafed from a height of 500/800 ft. (B) TOKAPA GARDENS. A/C #2513 did not release oil. The other a/c gave the gardens a good covering. Strafing was carried out against targets on route. The three red drums in the clearing on the eastern side of Raua Hbr. (see Observations) were strafed without result. Some tracers were seen to enter the drum and others to ricochet off the sides. (C) Tokapa Gardens. A/C # 19 failed to release its oil. The second a/c covered the area fairly well. Huts around the area were strafed.
WEATHER: A. Enroute.- 10/10ths Stratus. Base 1500/2000'. Over target. Clear. B. En route. 2-3/10th Strato-cumulus. Base ? Over target. Clear. Cloud down over hills C. En route. 4/10th Low cloud. Base 4000/6000'. Over target. 4/10th Stratus. Base 8000 ft.
OBSERVATIONS: (1)Anti-aircraft Fire: None. (2) Enemy Shipping: None. (3) Enemy Activity: A. What appeared to be three 45 gallon drums painted red with yellow tops were seen in the shape of a triangle in a clearing on the Eastern side of Raua hbr. Distance between drums was approx. 15/20 yds. White smoke was observed coming from edge of the clearing. B. The drums mentioned above were observed again and strafed without result. C. Three new patches of gardens covering an area of approx. 3-4 acres were observed 2 miles East of Kaviki.
A/C No. Pilot Crew. A. N.Z. 2513 Le Lievre Alcock 19 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh. B. N.Z. 2513 ++Le Lievre Alcock 19 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 13:52:49 GMT 12
Struck - 9 June 1944.
TARGET: Rabaul 127, Supply Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb, Strafe & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31. - 12 aircraft, ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c - each loaded with 12 x 100 lb. 1/100th sec. delay fragmentation bombs.
TIMES: T.O. 0805; T.O.T. 1015; Landed 1145.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 18 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached around Cape Tawa at 12,000', turned Left & started to push over at 10,000'/11,000', & released bombs between 5000'/6000', then retired to the Right into Talili Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 120 x 100 lbs. bombs carried, 101 were hits in the target area, 5 fell short into Talili Bay, 13 were Jettisoned, & 1 was Returned to Base. 1 a/c Strafed Huts on Watom Island.
WEATHER: En route - 8/10th cumulus & strato-cumulus, base varying from 1500'/8000'. Over Target - 1-2/10th scattered cumulus otherwise clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: The following A/A fire was encountered: - (A) 5 Autos East of Target Area - meagre but fairly accurate. (B) Heavy position South of Target Area meagre & inaccurate. Few black puffs at 5000'/6000'. (C) M/Gs on Shore S.W. of Target Area -moderate & fairly accurate. 2. Enemy Shipping: 2 Barge Hulks were seen, 1 on the Western Shore of Ulu Island approximately 80' in length, & 1 on the Southern Shore of Moko Island, Duke of York group. Both appeared to be Unserviceable. 3. Enemy Activity: None. 4. Condition of Target After Attack: The Target Area appeared well-covered. Several columns of black smoke in the area were seen by the a/c during their retirement, 2 of the columns going up as high as 200'. SBDs report good TBF hits in the Target Area. 5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was quite good. 6. Friendly Shipping: 3 boats, thought to be 2 PTs or Escort vessels, & 1 small Coaster or AK, were seen approximately half way between Buka Passage & Cape St. George. Due to low patches of cloud & the height of the a/c the direction of the boats could not be determined. 7. Miscellaneous Reports: A/C #N.Z. 2512 & N.Z. 2525 did not take off, because of mechanical trouble.
A/C No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott . . 508 Willcox Stevenson, Claris . . 517 Jackson Smith, Walker E.C. . . 540 Holmes Kelsey, Alexander . . 520 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker A . . 545 Halford Waters, Blaikie . . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch . . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody . . 510 Stevenson Norman, Sole . . 525 : :Register Murphy, Gillanders . . 512 : :Kilgour Fuller, Harrison . . 522 Rollo Walker M.J., Powell
: Did not take off.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 13:15:33 GMT 12
Aircraft, 19 is most likely an American aircraft, as this is the style in which they are recorded in these reports.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 13:13:44 GMT 12
Carried out - 7 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at Tokapa, B.
MISSION: Spray & Bomb Gardens & Strafe Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Sgt L.P. Le Lievre, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 3 a/c.
A/C & LOADINGS: 2 a/c each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in specual bomb bay tank; & 1 a/c loaded with 1 x 2000 lb. experimental "daisy-cutter" type bomb. Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T. O. 1010; T.O.T. 1110; Landed 1130.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: Oil spray was not released, but the a/c Strafed Huts round Kiakara & Sarime. The bomb was released at 2500'.
SUMMARY RESULTS: The bomb was released on a garden plot on a ridge 2-3 miles E. of Kaikara, because the gardens at Tokapa were weathered out. The bomb failed to explode.
WEATHER: En route - 10/10th Stratus down low, and fine drizzle of rain.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: None. A well-used track was seen running from the Southern end of Soroken Harbour in a S.E. direction for approximately 1/2 mile. 4. Miscellaneous Reports: The 2 a/c carrying oil returned to Base because of unfavourable weather conditions.
A/C No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 513 Le Lievre Alcock 19 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody N.Z. 522 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:48:37 GMT 12
Struck - 6th June 1944.
TARGET: Guns & Trucks on Road S.E. of Hari, South Bougainville. MISSION: Bomb, Strafe & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 aircraft.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 1125; T.O.T. 1205; Landed 1230.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The a/c approached from the N.W. at 5000' and made a glide approach over the target. 1 a.c released all bombs at 800' and the other a/c released some on the N.W. run in & returned from the S.E. to release the rest.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: The 24 bombs carried were released in the Target Area. Strafing was carried out in the area. Results of the bombing & strafing were not observed.
WEATHER: En route : Clear. Over Target: Clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: 2 blazing trucks were all that were seen 4. Condition of Target after Attack: Area appeared well-covered, with dust & smoke, etc., otherwise no results were observed 5. Miscellaneous Reports: 2 tracks were on fire & blazing well on the road, 2 miles S.E. of Hari. This was the result of the attack of the F4Us.
A/C No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 523 Adams Davies, Scott, EC . . 525 Stephenson Weir, Walker, J.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:44:27 GMT 12
Carried Out - 6 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at (A) Ton & (B) Tsumpets, North Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Sgt L.F. Le Lievre, RNZAF - on both flights.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks on both flights.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1020; T.O.T. 1050; Landed 1120 (B) T.O. 1340; T.O.T. 1405; Landed 1430
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: A/C released spray from altitude of 50'/70' on both flights. Strafing was carried out from an altitude of 100'/400'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: (A) Garden at Ton, South of Ruri Bay, was well-covered. Strafing was carried out against huts at Papas & Baniu Hbrs. (B) Tsumpets gardens were very well covered. Strafing was carried out against Huts on route.
WEATHER: (A) En route - 6/10th Stratus & Strato - Cumulus, Base 4000'. Over Target - 8/10th Stratus, Base 3000'. Stratus low over the hills (B) En route - 10/10th Stratus down to 5000' along the Coast. Over target - 8/10th Stratus, Base 6000'/8000'.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: (A) White smoke from fires was observed on the Western side of Baniu Hbr. and on S.W. side of Ruri Bay. 3 mls. E of Lalun, a new clearing has been cut in the trees. (B) 3 people were seen near the Kaviki River, 1 ml. E. of Kaviki. 4. Observation of Garden Plots: (A) Papas Gardens were looked at again & it is reported that the brown patches observed yesterday are not very bad and the gardens are in good condition. Tokapa gardens were also green & healthy (B) On the E. side of Tsumpets gardens a small area of crops appeared to have been piled in heaps and burned. An area of about 4 acres of several patches was observed about 4 mls. inland directly E. of Mikmik Island on the W. Coast; in the valley between hills. 5. Miscellaneous Reports: Both a/c released all spray on both trips. Detonators are now checked on the ground before a/c take off.
A/C No. Pilot Crew (A) N.Z. 513 Le Lievre Alcock . . 522 Rollo Walker, M.J., Powell (B) N.Z. 513 Le Lievre Alcock . . 522 Rollo Walker, M.J., Powell
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:39:11 GMT 12
Struck - 6 June 1944.
TARGET: Supply Area, South of Vulcan Crater, N.B.
MISSION: Bomb & Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 planes.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c each loaded with 12 x 100 lb. bombs. Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 1005; T.O.T. 1215; Landed 1355.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 14 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS. The formation approached over the East Coast of New Britain near the Warangoi River, and flew in a N.W. direction, peeling off to the Right, East of Kerava Airfield & then going over the Target Area which was obscured by low cloud. They continued out through Blanche Bay, turned N.W. and over Tawai Pt. the SBDs split formation & the TBFs carried on and down across Talili Bay, and released over the Vulcan Crater area, at 6000'/8000'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 144 x 100 lb. bombs carried, 67 were dropped in the Vulcan Crater area, 12 were Jettisoned over Cape Gazelle. 5 were dropped in Raluana Point, 6 were dropped in the sea. 18 were Returned to Base. Strafing was carried out in Keravia Bay & over Gredner Island.
WEATHER: En route - 9/10th strato-cumulus, base 12,000'/15,000'. Over target - 8/10th low cumulus and strut-cumulus. The Target Area was obscured on the first run over and on the second run there were a few clear patches.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre & inaccurate fire was encountered from the following positions: (A) Heavy fire from S.W. end of Tobera R/W. (B) Heavy fire from a position half way along the S.W. side of Vunakanau R/W. (C) Auto fire from Praed Point. (D) Auto fire or Heavy MG from W, end of Keravia Bay. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: Four Piers at the N.E. end of Simpson Harbour were in good order & appeared to have been recently repaired. 4. Condition of Target after Attack: Several bomb bursts were seen on the N.W. and E. sides of Vulcan Crater near the shore. White smoke went up to a height of 60'. The bombs Jettisoned on Cape Gazelle shot up a high column of white smoke, to 200'. The bombs on Raluana Point were not observed. 5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was good up to Tawai Point where the SBDs split up and scattered on the secondary target. TBFs then carried on to Vulcan Crater, and released. 6. Miscellaneous Reports: A shiny object thought to be an a/c was seen on the S.E. end of Vunakanau R/W, about 300 yds. away from the strip.
A/C No Pilot Crew N.Z. 508 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus . . 512 Register Murphy, Gillanders . . 517 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham . . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch . . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody . . 520 Stevenson Norman, Sole . . 540 Holmes Kelsey, Alexander . . 545 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh . . 514 Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:31:23 GMT 12
Carried out - 5 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden plots at (A) Papas, (B) Tsumpets, (C) West of Ton, North Bougainville; & Targets of Opportunity.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT LEADER: F/O F.W. Holmes, RNZAF, on all flights - A, B, & C.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on all flights.
A/C & LOADING: On all 3 flights - 2 a/c, each with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil, in special bomb bay tanks.
TIMES: A. T.O. 1016; T.O.T. 1040; Landed 1120. B. T.O. 1330; T.O.T. 1400; Landed 1440. C. T.O. 1630; T.O.T. - ; Landed 1645.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: 3 Flights were carried out, and the a/c sprayed from an altitude of about 30'/60'. Strafing was carried out on thatched huts.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
A. Gardens at Papas, Baniu Plantation. A/C #N.Z. 2522 did not release oil. A/C #N.Z. 2513 covered the area of 1 1/2/2 acres fairly well. Strafing was carried out against huts inland about 3 miles from Sipaai Mission, & also at Baniu and Raua Harbours. B. Gardens at Tsumpets, East of Baniu Hbr. A/C # N. Z. 2513 did not release oil. A/C # N.Z. 2522 sprayed the area of 2-3 acres. Huts were Strafed near Tokapa and Kunapopo. C. No results.
WEATHER: A. En route - 3/10th cumulus, base 8000'. Fairly clear. Low stratus over the hills Over target - Clear. B. En route - 7-8/10th cumulus, base 2000'/3000'. Over target - As above. Base 3000'/ 4000'. Light drizzle of rain as a/c were leaving. C. Rainy - visibility nil.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: A. 1 a/c saw a flash of flame in front of his port wing when a/c was over Sipaai Mission. A/c was flying at 800'. B. None. C. None. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: A. A line of approximately 15 fires, running N.W. from Mt. Balbi for about a mile were observed. White smoke 50'/100' high. About 15 - 20 thatched huts in good condition partly hidden under trees, South of Mt. Balbi. One column of white smoke from huts East of Sipaai Mission. B. 1 small camp fire at Baniu Harbour. C. Mission weathered out. 4. Observation of Garden Plots: The gardens at Papas are beginning to show several brown patches. A New Garden of approximately 3 acres, very green & in good condition, was observed just West of Ton, South of Ruri Bay. 5. Miscellaneous Reports: A. A/c # N.Z. 2522 failed to release oil. B. .. .. .. 2513 .. .. .. .. C. None.
A/C No. Pilot Crew A. N.Z. 513 Holmes Kelsey, Alexander .. 522 Le Lievre Norman, Alcock B. N.Z. 513 Holmes Alexander . . 522 Le Lievre Alcock, Buckingham C. N.Z. 513 Holmes Alexander . . 522 Le Lievre Alcock
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:25:00 GMT 12
Struck - 5 June 1944.
TARGET: Vunapope Supply Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt. F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31. - 12 aircraft.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c, each loaded, with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 0835; T.O.T. 1045; Landed: 1140.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 16 SBDs, VMSB-36
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: # N.Z. 2523 - shrapnel hole approximately 3" x 3", in port flap. # N.Z. 2510 - Starboard elevator, and half of starboard tail-plane shot away. Several medium-sized holes in rudder. # N.Z. 2509 - Port panel smashed by blast - hole 3" in diameter. # N.Z. 2518 was lost.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: A/C # N. Z. 2518 - Pilot: F/Lt C.G.G. Prior, RNZAF. Navigator: F/O S.E. Clayton, RNZAF. Gunner: W/O T.R. Scarlett, RNZAF. - were the Crew of the Missing a/c.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached the Target Area from the North-West at 14,000', pushed over at 10,000'/11,000', and released at 3500'/4000' indicated.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 144 x 100 lb. bombs carried, 94 were hits in target area, 23 were Jettisoned & 15 were Returned. 12 bombs on the missing a/c were not accounted for. Several a/c Strafed on the way in to the Target, and some on the way out. Results of Strafing not observed.
WEATHER: En route - 3-4/10ths scattered cumulus, base 4000'. Over Target - Light scattered cumulus, otherwise clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: All fire was very intense and accurate. The general opinion of both SBD & TBF pilots was that the guns withhold their fire until the SBDs had gone through, and then all positions opened up. Heavy A/A fire was bursting from 6000'/ 8000' and the sky was filled with black puffs. A. The 4 Heavies at the Northern end of the Target Area - Intense & Accurate. B. The 2 Auto positions on the S.E. & S.W. of the Target Area were also Intense & Accurate. C. The 4-5 Heavies S.S.E. of the Target Area were also Intense & Accurate. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: None. 4. Condition of Target after Attack: Black smoke was seen in the Target Area going up to 400'/500' when the a/c were retiring. 5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was good, but the general opinion of the TBF pilots was that, numerically, SBD support appeared insufficient. 6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
SPECIAL REPORT: N.Z. A/C # N.Z. 2518 crashed during the attack. Pilot: N.Z. 39935, F/Lt C.G.G. Prior. Navigator: N.Z. 426214, F/O S.E. Clayton. Gunner: N.Z. 411234, W/O T.R. Scarlett - were the crew of the a/c. One TBF pilot saw the a/c spin slowly into the ground. It appeared as though the pilot had been hit. Another pilot saw part of a wing fly past him, and another saw two metal fuselage or wing plates falling. An SBD pilot saw the TBF go in and burst into flames on hitting the ground. None of the crew were seen to get out of the a/c.
Plane No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott . . 509 Wilcox Stevenson, D.B, Dunwoody . . 510 Jackson Smith, Walker, E.C. . . 533 Hannah Cameron, Arneson . . 517 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker A.C. . . 512 Halford Waters, Blaikie . . 518 : : Prior Clayton, Scarlett . . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker, J. . . 523 Rollo Walker, M.J., Powell . . 514 Worsp Goss, Williams . . 520 Smart Logon, Dixon . . 525 Kissel Scott, K.R., Bower
: Did Not Return.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:16:20 GMT 12
Struck - 5 June 1944.
TARGET: Gun Position, near Meivo, Maririci River, Empress Augusta Bay.
MISSION: Bomb & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 3 planes.
A/C & LOADING: 3 a/c each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, 4 - 5 seconds delay.
TIMES: T.O. 0710; T.O.T. 0755; Landed 0830.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 3 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: A good approach was made at 6000', from the N.W., and bombs were released from 1500'/ 2500'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 12 x 500 lb. bombs carried, 11 were direct hits in area & 1 was Returned. 1 a/c Strafed in area - results unobserved. WEATHER: En route - Clear. Over Target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None. 2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: A small camp fire, white smoke at ground level, was seen just South of Target. 4. Condition of Target After Attack: Target Area appeared to be very well covered by both SBD & TBF bombs. 5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination, the TBFs following the SBDs on to the target at the correct time. 6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
Plane No. Pilot Crew N.Z. 2540 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus . . 2508 Register Murphy, Gillanders . . 2545 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
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