RNZAF activity in the Pacific 1945

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 20 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(94 Sorties- 43 1/4 Tons)

500 Mobiai Nips Hit By 64 Corsairs: POW and patrol reports indicate that there is a strong force of 500 Nips entrenched along the Miobiai River from the crossing at 073347 to the bend at 077348. The 3rd Australian Division requested a preoccupation softening up strike on the area. At 0840 twelve NZ 16 Corsairs carried eight 1000 pounders and four 650 pound depth charges over the target. Two bombs fell 25 yards North and ten fell in the center of the target area. Results of this element of the strike were not observed.
At 0845 eleven Corsairs of NZ 15 brought in four 1000 pound stick bombs and fourteen 650 pound depth charges. Two of these bombs failed to release and were jettisoned at sea. The remainder all fell in their assigned area in the West central portion of the target. Results were unobserved.
At 0847 twelve more Corsairs of NZ 22 hit the area with ten 1000 pounders and two 650 pound depth charges. One half tonner hung up and was jettisoned at sea. One fell in the river. The remainder landed on the target for good line coverage. Results were unobserved.
Eight Corsairs of NZ 18 completed the morning half of the strike with six 1000 pounders, two 650 pound depth charges, and two 100 pound smokes. All bombs (including the smokes) fell on the target area for good coverage. One 650 pound depth charge was a dud. 24 strafing runs were carried out in addition to the bombing. Results were not observed.
An F4U on Able Charlie Search observed the execution of the strike and dropped a single half ton bomb in the Northern sector of the target.
In the afternoon the Mobiai River area was again struck. The target area skirts the South bank of the Mobiai River for a distance of 350 yards between the road junction at 08253490 and the river bend at 08553520. At 1255 twelve Corsairs of NZ 15 carried three 700 pound depth charges, sixteen 650 pound depth charges and two 325 pound depth charges in over the area. They were obliged to orbit for one hour before the weather cleared sufficiently to make the strike possible. All bombs fell in the target area. With the exception of the Southwest corner good coverage was obtained. Five strafing runs were carried out in addition to the bombing. Results were unobserved.
The day's strikes on the area were brought to a conclusion by eight Corsairs of NZ 18 which came in at 1300 with eight 1000 pounders. All of these bombs were put in the target area
with unobserved results.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 16 MOBIAI A 0840 dr 8x1000 G.P.
                                                 4x650 D.C.
11 F4Us NZ 15 0845 4x1000 G.P.
                             14x650 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 22 0847 dr 10x1000 G.P.
                                    2x650 D.C.
8 F4Us NZ 18 0850 dr 6x1000 G.P.
                                 2x650 D.C. (1 dud)
                                 2x100 Smokes.
1 F4U NZ 22 0850 dr 1x1000 G.P.
12 F4Us NZ 15 MOBIAI B 1255 dr 3x700 D.C.
                                               16x650 D.C.
                                                2x325 D.C.
8 F4Us NZ 18 1300 dr 8x1000 G.P.

Tabago Nips Hit Again: AIB has reported that there are numerous Nips still occupying "islands" of brush just Northeast of Tabago, and a strike was requested to clear these isolated patches.
At 1140 twelve NZ 22 Corsairs carried a dozen 1000 pounders and a pair of 100 pound smokes over the area. Four of those bombs were dropped on the hut area. However, low-lying clouds caused them to overshoot the position. The flight then proceeded to an active Muliko River area. A target at 329342 was smoked and covered with the remaining bombs and strafing. Observed results were excellent. One large hut (25' x 15'), five galvanized iron huts, and one 3-ton truck were destroyed. One galvanized iron hut was damaged. Much white paper and vehicle machinery were scattered in the area.
Nips in circular foxholes were strafed at 320340. Two of them got out of the foxhole dragging a third by the legs. Foxholes at 332338 (recorded as possible gun positions on 8 June) were strafed with unobserved results. Two Nips were killed in foxholes at 334341.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 22 NE TABAGO MULIKO 1140 dr 12x1000 G.P.
                                                                  2x100 Smokes.

Ruri Bay Strike Supports 11th Brigade: An enemy defended position in the west Ruri Bay area at 316723-315724 was hindering the advance of our forward patrols. At 1140 twelve NZ 16 Corsairs attacked the position with half a dozen 650 pound depth charges. Artillery smoked the target. Nine bombs fell in the area and cleared all but a small portion of the Southwest corner. Three bombs overshot. 18 strafing runs were also carried out. Results of the strike were unobserved.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 16 W RURI BAY 1140 dr 12x650 D.C.

Able Charlie Searches Observe Much Activity Shortland: At 0705 a pair of NZ 18 Corsairs flew Able Charlie search with negative results. At 1015 two NZ 18 Corsairs on Able Charlie Search noted much activity in the Harapa and Kupala Bay areas on the Northern coast of Shortland Island. The same search noted a number of leantos on the shore between Cape Putputun and Cape Tanbom on the East coast of Buka. At 1405 two NZ 22 Corsairs made a Recco flight of the Muguai area. One bomb was dropped in a hut area NE Tabago with negative results; the other was a dud. Three Nips were sighted at the edge of a garden near Kikibatsiago (343390).

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 18 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0705 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 18 1015 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 22 MUGUAI RECCO 1405 dr 2x1000 D.C. (1 dud).

NEW BRITAIN
(36 Sorties-21 1/2 Tons)

Mediums Hit Rabaul With 18 Tons: 12 Venturas of NZ 1 carried seventy-two 250 pounders over a personnel and truck storage area near Tawui Point (Rabaul #30) at 0922. Two bombs hung up and were jettisoned; two were returned; the remainder fell just North of the target area for unobserved results. Six Mitchells of VMB Emirau put 18 half tonners on a truck park, personnel area, supply dump on the Northeast edge of Rabaul town at 1025. One bomb hung up and was jettisoned at sea; the remaining 17 fell from the edge of the target about 500 feet Southeast. During the strike jamming of the emergency frequency was noted for five minutes. Results of the strike were not observed.

For the Record:

12 PV-1s NZ-1 RABAUL #30 0922 dr 70x250 G.P.
6 PBJs VMB Emirau RABAUL #59 1025 dr 18x1000 G.P.

Emirau Corsairs and Mitchells Hit Kabagada: A very large and active storage area 1 3/4 miles West of Malaguna has been noted. It was hit on 7 June with bombs falling mainly in the North-eastern corner or the target. Two Corsairs of NZ 25 smoked the area at 0933 putting four 100 pound smoke bombs on the target. Identification of the position was difficult, however, due to other fires in the section.
At 0938 six Mitchells brought seventy-two 100 pounders over the area. All the bombs fell 4500 feet Northwest of the target due to confusing smoke marks. Results of the strike were not observed.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 KABAGADA #5 0933 dr 4x100 Smokes. (2 duds)
6 PBJs VMB Emirau 0938 dr 72x100 G.P.

Jacquinot Patrols Kill Pair Mandres Nips: From 0630 to 0850 and again from 1020 to 1630 eight Corsairs of NZ 20 covered the Rabaul area on patrol. 2 Nips were strafed and killed at Mandres Point (in Ataliklikun Bay). Pair of Corsairs carried out Recconaisance flight over the Gazelle Peninsula from 1030 to 1130 with negative results.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ 20 RABAUL PATROL 0630-0850, 1020-1630 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 20 GAZELLE RECCO. 1030-1130 dr No bombs.

NEW IRELAND
(17 Sorties-15 1/4 Tons)

New Ireland Patrols Destroy Huts: On Monday a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs were on Kavieng patrol from 1630 to 1900. They dropped a pair of half ton bombs on huts between Kapsu and Ululnono. Two huts were destroyed. From 1500 to 1905 another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept the entire coast line of New Ireland. A pair of 1000 pounders were dived on two bridges in the Namatanai area. Strafing runs were also carried out on fires in the area. Results were not observed.
On Tuesday a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept the New Ireland coast from 0630 to 1020. A pair of half tonners was dropped on a Panapai machine gun at 132098. One was a near miss and one overshot the target. Smoke at Fatmilak was strafed. Results of this bombing and strafing were not observed. Persistent accurate light flak was received from the target area without damage to the aircraft.
Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs patrolled Kavieng from 0705 to 0920 on Tuesday morning. They put a pair of Half tonners on huts at 098110. One bomb fell short of the target; one was a near miss. Meagre inaccurate medium was received from 809811 without damaging the plane.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 18 June 1630-1900 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 18 June 1500-1900 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 19 June 0630-1020 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 19 June 0705-0920 dr 2x1000 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 21 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(58 Sorties-24 Tons)

32 Corsairs Hit Nip Positions in Mobiai Area: Patrols of the Australian 3rd Division located strong enemy positions from 072356-073354-074356) to 100 yards North of the Buin Road. These positions (about 700 yards Northwest of the Mobiai River ford) consist of trenches, pillboxes and gunpits including 37mm and possible 150 mm implacements. The positions are being held by 150 Japs. At 0835 twelve Corsairs of NZ 16 dropped eleven 1000 pounders and one 650 pound depth charge on target area (072356-073354-074356) which artillery had marked with smoke. All bombs were reported to have fallen in the target area for good coverage. The results of the mission were not observed. At 0840 eight more Corsairs of NZ 22 followed up with six 650 pound depth charges and two 1000 pounders. This strike achieved a good coverage of the target some bombs falling short of the area marked by 50 yards. After dropping their bombs, the Corsairs made 32 strafing runs on the area. The results of the strike were not observed.
At 0845 twelve Corsairs of NZ 18 completed the attack by releasing eight 1000 pounders and four 650 pound depth charges on the area marked. All of these bombs hit the target, which was well-cleared. One bomb produced a large red flash followed by smoke, otherwise the results of the strike were not observed.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 16 MOBIAI 0835 dr 1x650 D.C.
                                            11x1000 G.P.
8 F4Us NZ 22 0840 dr 6x650 D.C.
                                 2x1000 G.P.
12 F4Us NZ 18 0845 dr 8x1000 G.P.
                                  4x650 D.C.

12 Planes Blast Porton Hut Concentration: Recent Tac/R reports revealed huts, newly camouflaged, and fresh diggings for a possible trench system in an area 200 yards by 100 yards from 267717 to 269717 on the Porton Plantation. At 0800 twelve Corsairs of NZ 15 dropped four 700 pound depth charges fourteen 650 pound depth charges, and two 325 pound depth charges on the target. Artillery had smoked the target satisfactorily and all bombs fell in the area for good coverage, blasting it well. No huts were seen. 36 strafing runs were then made on the area. The results of the strafing were not observed.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 15 PORTON 0800 dr 4x700 D.C.
                                              14x650 D.C.
                                               2x325 D.C.

8 Planes Scrambled to Attack Tank: At 1400 eight Corsairs of NZ 18 took off to attack a moving tank reported by Tac/R near Chindawon (refer. 302748) about 2 miles Northeast of the Porton Plantation. The Tac/R plane indicated the location of the tank by strafing. The first bomb was said to have fallen about 400 yards South of the tank. The remainder of the bombs were scattered over a large area as directed by Tac/R. There was no sign of the tank and no results were observed.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ 18 CHINDAWON 1400 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                                     4x650 D.C.

Able Charlies Note Activity in South Buka: At 0700 two Corsairs NZ 22 on Able Charlie search observed signs of much activity on South Buka in the form of newly felled timber. Two Nips were strafed near Lonahan and three possible camoufaged gun positions inland from Cape Lalahan were strafed. The results were not observed. Two Corsairs NZ 22 carrying two 325 pound depth charges let go on a large hut near Cape Hanpan (Northern tip of Buka) for one near miss and one on the beach. The results were negative. On the return trip huts were strafed along the Northwest Coast of Buka from Tandoki to Kossa plantation. Also an occupied cave on the Northeastern shore of Buka was strafed. The results of the strafings were not observed.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 22 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0700 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 22 1025 dr 2x325 D.C.

Weather Hop by Piva Corsairs: At 1020 a pair of NZ 22 Corsairs were scrambled to make a weather check over Bougainville. No sightings were made no bombs were dropped.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 22 WEATHER RECCO 1020 dr. No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(2 Sorties- No Bombs)

2 Corsairs from NZ 20 took off from Jaquinot Bay 0745 to patrol Rabaul but were forced to land at Green 1024 because of bad weather. All other patrols were cancelled.

NEW IRELAND
(16 Sorties-8 1/2 Tons)

Emirau Corsairs Bomb and strafe New Ireland Nips: From 1705 to 1907 Tuesday 2 Corsairs of NZ 25 dropped two 1000 pounders on Lelet huts. The first bomb started a small fire in a nearby supply area, while the second succeeded in destroying 2 huts and damaging 7 others. Two more huts were burned by strafing. Two Corsairs of NZ 25 from 1500 to 1907 swept the Northeast coast to Mimas and then back to Ululnono. Crossing the island at Korobin they continued down to Waum. Two 1000 pounders were released on huts in the Kapsu area. The results of the bombing were not observed although both bombs were seen to hit the target area. Huts were strafed and burned at Cape Sona on the East coast and one Jap was killed by strafing on Panapai beach.
From 0710 to 1110 2 Corsairs patrolled the Northeast coast to Narum where they met a storm. They then crossed the island returning by way of the Southwest coast. Two 1000 pounders were released for near misses on Pinikindu bridge. Several cows were strafed and killed at Kalili. Strafing at Mageh encountered machine gun fire. The position was strafed killing one Nip in gun emplacement.
From 0745 to 1020 two Corsairs of NZ 25 struck at Kavieng with two 1000 pounders. One bomb hung up and was jettisoned, the other fell near Kavieng guns at 098113. Anti-aircraft fire was seen on North Cape and from four positions at Kavieng 098113. Machine gun fire was noted at Panapai (131096).
At this point the patrol leader missed his wigman, and noted an oil slick about 150 yards off the coast at Panapai. He saw no wreckage. A subsequent search revealed very 1ittle wreckage, an oil slick and no survivor.
At 1030 six Venturas of NZ 1 being weathered off their primary targets, dropped all 36 of their 250 pounders in center of A/A positions at Kavieng (070055). This was confirmed by photos. The Venturas also reported an oil slick off Panapai bay.
From 1045 to 1209 two PBJs of VMB 413 flew a special search mission for the missing flyer over the Kavieng area. The area from Fangelawa Bay Northwest Steffen Straits and Southeast to Dyaul was searched with negative results.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 LELET 19 June 1705-1907 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAPSU 19 June 1500-1907 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 PINIKINDU 20 June 0710-1110 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG 20 June 0745-1020 dr 2x1000 G.P.
6 Venturas NZ 1 KAVIENG 20 June 1030 dr 36x250 G.P.
2 PBJs VMB 413 PILOT SEARCH 20 June 1045-1209 dr No bombs.

[aircraftclocks]

WEEKLY REPORT OF AIRCRAFT AND PILOT AVAILABILITY AS OF 19 JUNE 1945.

UNIT AND LOCATION TYPE AND NO. OF PLANES AVAIL. PLANES OPERATIONAL PILOTS AVAIL. GROUND SUPPORT UNIT

ADMIRALTIES

NZ-17                                               18 F4U                         17                     26                   NZ #4 S.U.

EMIRAU

VMB-413                                          12 PBJ-1D                     12                    40                    VMB-413
VMB-423                                          12 PBJ-1J                      12                    46                    VMB-423
VMB-433                                          12 PBJ                          12                    48                    VMB-433
VMB-443                                          11 PBJ                          11                    43                    VMB-443
NZ-1                                                14 PV-1                        13                    12                    NZ #10 S.U.
NZ-25                                              19 F4U                         18                    26                     NZ #5 S.U.

GREEN

NZ-6                                                 6 PBY-5                         6                   12                     *OWN

JACQUINOT

NZ-3                                               16 PV-1                         14                   13                     NZ #14 S.U.
NZ-20                                             18 F4U-1D                     16                   26                     NZ #3 S.U.
NZ-21                                             18 F4U-1                       18                   26                     NZ #30 S.U.

BOUGAINVILLE

VMR-152                                         11 R4D-5                       11                   51                    VMR-152
VMR-153                                         10 R4D-5                         9                   51                    VMR-153
NZ-15                                             18 F4U-1                       16                   25                    NZ #2 S.U.
NZ-16                                             18 F4U-1                       14                   23                    NZ #25 S.U.
NZ-18                                             18 F4U-1                       15                   26                    NZ #1 S.U.
NZ-22                                             18 F4U-1                       14                   24                    NZ #31 S.U.

* Minor maintenance and repair by flight echelon personnel. Squadron based at HALAVO.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 22 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(89 Sorties-40 Tons)

67 Corsairs Strike Uguimo River Personnel Concentration: The Australian 2nd Corps reported a concentration of Jap Naval units recently arrived from Shortland Island in the Uguimo river area. The units were dispersed 100 yards on both sides of a road from gardens at 284317 to road junction at 294316. The heaviest possible strike was requested.
At 0835 nine Corsairs of NZ 16 opened the attack on the concentration dropping fourteen 650 pound depth charges, and two 700 pound depth charges. Smoky Joe of NZ 22 had marked the target and all bombs fell in the area except two which failed to release and were safely jettisoned at sea. Results unobserved. At 0837 twelve Corsairs of NZ 18 toting twelve 1000 G.P. followed up putting eleven bombs on the target. One plane crashed on the strip during take off. The results were not observed. At 0840 thirteen Corsairs of NZ 22 including one Smokey Joe completed the early strike with seven 1000 pound stick bombs, four 1000 pounders, one 650 depth charge, and two 100 pound smokes. All bombs fell in the target area, and 23 strafing runs were also made. However, Smokey Joe reported that the bombs dropped were not sufficient to completely clear the entire area. Otherwise the results of the strike were not seen. At 1100 thirty-three Corsairs of NZ 18, NZ 22 and NZ 15 took off to attack a Jap camp South of Barillo. Low clouds prevented the identification of the target, and the strike was diverted to the Uguimo River target.
At 1145 twelve Corsairs of NZ 18 loosed eight 1000 pounders and four 700 pound depth charges on the West half of the target which was marked by Smokey Joe. The results of strike were not observed.
At 1150 thirteen Corsairs including a Smokey Joe sortied with twelve 650 pound depth charges and three 100 pound smokes to follow NZ 18 over the target. All bombs were dropped near the smoke as directed by Smokey Joe. The results of the combined strike as reported by Smokey Joe were as follows: six straw huts and one iron hut 30x20 were destroyed; one large straw hut undamaged; 3 Nips strafed and killed in adjoining garden area; plus others strafed with unobserved results.
At 1155 eight Corsairs of NZ 15 completed the strike on the Eastern end of the target as marked by Smokey Joe (Ref 294315) dropping eight 1000 pounders and four 700 pound depth charges. Eleven of the bombs hit near the smoke marker with one bomb over shooting the area. The results were not observed.
Smokey Joe reported a large number of Japs in the surrounding gardens and other signs of recent activity such as Motor Transport tracks.

For the Record:

9 F4Us NZ 16 UGUIMO 0835 dr 14x650 D.C.
                                                2x700 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 18 0837 dr 12x1000 G.P.
13 F4Us NZ 22 0840 dr 7x1000 S.B.
                                   4x1000 G.P.
                                   1x650 D.C.
                                   2x100 Smoke.
12 F4Us NZ 18 UGUIMO 1145 dr 8x1000 G.P.
                                               4x700 D.C.
13 F4Us NZ 22 1150 dr 12x650 D.C.
                                    3x100 Smoke.
8 F4Us NZ 15 1155 dr 12x650 D.C.
                                  2x700 D.C.

Corsairs Attack Staff Cars near Mobiai Ford: TAC/R reported sighting five staff cars and quite a few Japs just East of the Mobiai river ford. An enemy gun was also spotted at the same place (088344).
At 1500 eight Corsairs with two 700 Pound depth charges and twelve 650 pound depth charges attacked the E Mobiai target, dropping on the smoke markers as directed by TAC/R. 7 bombs fell on the first smoke, and 7 remaining bombs on a target south of the road. The results of the bombing were not seen. At 1510 eight more Corsairs of NZ 18 followed up on this target with eight 1000 pounders. All bombs were dropped 100 yards East of last smoke marker used by the previous strike as was directed by TAC/R. The results were not observed. After the strike two of the NZ 15 Corsairs made a Recco flight over the Maiki area (East of Kahili) before returning to base. Huts were reported at the following reference points: eight at 431 329; twelve at 433329; six at 428319; and six at 439328. Well worn tracks indicated activity in the vicinity.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ 15 E MOBIAI 1500 dr 12x6350 D.C.
                                                 2x700 D.C.
8 F4Us NZ 18 1310 dr 8x1000 G.P.

Bonis Recco Corsairs Destroy Huts: At 1335 two Corsairs of NZ 22 took off on a recco flight over the Bonis area (Northern tip of Bougainville). They dropped one 325 pound depth charge on a suspected motor transport parking area at 265787 with negative results. The other 325 pound depth charge was dropped on 3 huts at 245808 destroying all three. A tank hit on 13 June was confirmed as being permanently disabled.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 22 RECCO BONIS 1335 dr 2x325 D.C.

Able Charlies Report Activity in Arawa Area: At 0655 two Corsairs flew an able charlie search with negative results. At 1025 two Corsairs on Able Charlie searches sighted five Nips carrying rifles at Arawa Bay and two Japs on the Iwi plantation. About 40 yards Southwest of the mouth of the Iwi river a Quonset Hut was seen with well worn tracks leading up to it.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 15 ABLE CHARLIE 0655 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 15 1025 dr No bombs.

Surface Vessels Continue Support Northeast Bougainville Coast: Targets along the Northeast coast of Bougainville near Asitavi, Kevisia and the Aita river were gunned by three Australian surface vessels. Shrapnel, 40mm and lower calibre fire was put on the targets; particular attention was paid to the Aita sector. Surface vessel gunning was followed by strafing from TAC/R aircraft.

NEW BRITAIN
(42 Sorties-23 Tons )

Venturas Strike Tobera A/A Positions: At 0910 six Venturas of NZ 1 and one of NZ 4 went in over Tobera #26 (a supply and personnel area) with forty-two 250 pounders. Eleven of the bombs fell on the West end of the target at 104134; 23 fell in a cleared area smothering two medium and 11 1ight positions. Two of these positions, of undetermined size, are reported to have been destroyed or badly damaged. 7 bombs hung up and were jettisoned; one hung up and was returned.

For the Record:

7 PV-1s NZ 1, NZ 4, TOBERA #26 0910 dr 41x250 G.P.

Jacquinot Plane Lost Ulu Island: Two Corsairs of NZ 21 which had landed at Green due to bad weather took over Rabaul Patrol from 0900 to 0950 on Wednesday. On Thursday, from 0630 to 1630 five pairs of NZ 20 Corsairs patrolled the Rabaul area. While strafing a canoe (at 0920) on the Northwest coast of Ulu Island (Duke of York group), Warrant Officer Warren was lost from the view of his wingman, who searched the area with negative results. An orgainzed search located a crashed aircraft on the Northwest coast of Ulu Island. The plane appeared to be completely wrecked and there was no sign of the pilot. During the search over Ulu, meagre, inaccurate, light flak was received from Manwan Point and Uri.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 21 RABAUL PATROL 20 June 0900-0950 dr No bombs.
10 F4Us NZ 20 RABAUL PATROL 21 June 0630-1630 dr No bombs.

Recco Flight Interrupted: A Recco flight of 2 NZ 20 Corsairs which were over the Vunakanau-Keravat area, was interrupted to aid in the search for downed plane over Ulu Island.

2 F4Us NZ 20 RECCO VUNAKANAU 0930 dr No bombs.

NEW IRELAND
(8 Sorties-4 Tons)

New Ireland Patrols Crater Roads Near Mumu and Kapsu: On Wednesday from 1705 to 1855 a pair of Emirau Corsairs patrolled Kavieng. Two half ton bombs were dropped on guns in the area at 098113. One fell short of the target; one was a dud. A pair of Emirau Corsairs swept the New Ireland coast from 1500 to 1855 on Wednesday. They put two half tonners on Kavieng machine guns at 131096. One bomb fell short; one was a near miss; the guns continued to fire. A few huts along the coast were strafed. An oil slick was observed off Panapai but there was no wreckage in evidence.
On Thursday from 0630 to 1020 a pair of Corsairs swept the New Ireland coast, crossing the island from Cape Sona to Huru Point. A pair of half tonners cratered the coastal road opposite Numa island. Strafing was carried out in nearby hills with unobserved results.
From 0700 to 0940 on Thursday a pair of Corsairs guarded the Kavieng area. With one half tonner they cratered the road near Kapsu. Another was dropped among Kavieng buildings with unseen results. Intense inaccurate 20 and 40mm flak was received from Kavieng positions at 074084 and 094116.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 20 June 1705-1855 dr 2x1000 G.P. (1 dud)
2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 20 June 1500-1855 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 21 June 0630-1020 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 21 June 0700-0940 dr 2x1000 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 23 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(82 Sorties-31 1/4 Tons)

Strongly Defended Rusei Positions Hit by 42 Sorties: Strong enemy defendes have been reported in the vicinity of East Rusei by ground troops advancing into the area along the Buin Road. Two targets have been defined. The first was an area extending about 500 yards along the Buin Road from 067364 to 071359 (in the morning); the second extends along the Buin Road for about 300 yards from 074356 to 077355, East of the first target (at noon).
At 0840 twelve Corsairs of NZ 22 carried a dozen 1000 pounders and two 100 pound smokes in over E Rusei. Smoke was laid down on the target by Smokey Joe. All bombs fell in the area. Good results are expected although damage was not seen. As the smoke drifted away it appeared that the boat concentration of bombs had been in the Southwest portions of the target area.
At 0845 twelve more Corsairs of NZ 15 followed in over the same target. They got good coverage on the area with their entire load of three 700 pound depth charges, sixteen 650 pound depth charges, and two 350 pound depth charges. Results unobserved.
At 0850 the early morning element of the strike was completed by eight NZ B Corsairs carrying one 1000 pounder and seven 700 pound depth charges. One 700 pounder was jettisoned at sea due to electrical trouble, but the other seven bombs gave good coverage of the target. These aircraft noted two large columus of black smoke which resulted from bombs of the preceding NZ 15 aircraft.
At 1145 another flight of 10 Corsairs of NZ 15 carried a pair of 700 pound depth charges, fourteen 650 pound depth charges and one 325 pound depth charge over the more easterly of the two target areas (074356-077355). 13 bombs fell in the target area being particularly well grouped South of the road; three fell 40 yards South; and one fell 30 yards North of the area. 32 strafing runs were also carried out. Results of the strike were not seen. Possible empty gun emplacements were sighted at 076355 (near where the Buin Road crosses the Mobiai River East of Rusei).

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 22 E RUSEI 0840 dr 12x1000 G.P.
                                                 2x100 Smokes.
12 F4Us NZ 15 0845 dr 3x700 D.C.
                                16x650 D.C.
                                 2x350 D.C.
8 F4Us NZ 18 0850 dr 1x1000 G.P.
                                 7x700 D.C.
10 F4Us NZ 15 1145 dr 2x700 D.C.
                                 14x650 D.C.
                                  1x325 D.C.

Kandas Headquarters Hit Again: AIB reports that Lt. General Kanda's headquarters have now been moved to a position N.E. of Maika at 391358-397358. A target area about 600x300 yards was laid out in the area. At 1135 eight Corsairs of NZ 18 carried eight half ton bombs in an attack on this target. A Smokey Joe of NZ 22 marked the target. All bombs fell in the target with the exception of one 150 yards East. Results were not observed. A pair of Corsairs made a reconnaisance of the strike immediately following the first eight planes. They strafed and damaged rowboats at 408299.
At 1140 twelve more Corsairs of NZ 22 carried a dozen half tonners and a pair of 100 pound smokes over two same target. One bomb failed to release and was returned to base. The remainder fell in the target for good coverage. Results were unobserved. The pilots in this flight reported no sign of any activity in the area.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ 18 NE MAIKA 1135 dr 8x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 18 1136 dr No bombs.
12 F4Us NZ 22 1140 dr 11x1000 G.P.
                                    2x100 Smokes.

Buka Recco Planes Smoke Huts: A pair of NZ 22 Corsairs dropped two 325 pound depth charges on six huts and two leantos at 188124 under a Banyan tree. Near misses were scored; no damage was noted. The huts appeared to contain food stuffs. Two (or more) huts and a cave were strafed and set on fire at 193125. They were still smoking 15 minutes after being hit. Six Nips were in swimming at 060044. They were strafed. Their splashing ceased. 10 or more huts were sighted at 193117 and a channel in the beach suitable for barge traffic was noted at 052040. At the same location a series of long poles were noted laid out over marshy ground.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 22 BUKA RECCO 1350 dr 2x325 D.C.

Able Charlies Report Ripening Rice: At 0700 two Corsairs of NZ 18 on Able Charlies search strafed one hut at tabago with negative results. Six poor huts and what appeared to be a rice crop were sighted in the same area. At 1020 two NZ 18 Corsairs on Able Charlie search strafed two huts and an iron roofed leanto at Kiwiwana Plantation. Results negative. In this same area there were definite signs of activity. Four fields of what appeared to be ripening rice were noted.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 18 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0700 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 18 1020 dr No bombs.

Corsairs in Army Support Practice: Three flights of four Corsairs each took off in the afternoon to practice close army support methods. An effort is being made to coordinate artillery smoking and aircraft attack so closely that a maximum surprise affect will be achieved.

For the Record:

4 F4Us NZ 22 SUPPORT PRACTICE 1400 to 1500 dr 4x250 G.P.
4 F4Us NZ 15 1355 to 1455 dr 7x250 G.P.
4 F4Us NZ 18 1405 to 1500 dr 2x350 D.C.
                                             2x250 G.P.

NEW BRITAIN
(36 Sorties-22 3/4 Tons)

Jacquinot Corsairs Bag Truck and Dinghy: From 0630 to 1500 4 pairs of NZ 20 Corsairs patrolled the Rabaul area. Adverse weather conditions precluded the last patrol. No flak was encountered during the day. One truck was destroyed and one dinghy was sunk in the Liguan Bay area. A pair of NZ 20 Corsairs flew a target recco search from 0910 to 1130 over the Adler Bay area. No strafing or bombing were carried out.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ 20 RABAUL PATROL 0630-1500 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 20 ADLER BAY 0910-1130 dr No bombs.

NEW IRELAND
(15 Sorties-9 Tons)

Venturas Hit Northern New Ireland Guns: Five Venturas of NZ 1 and a single one from NZ 4 went in over Kavieng and Panapai at 0839 with three dozen 250 pounders. Guns in the Panapai area (128095) received 18 of the bombs. They fell West of their target. Guns in the Kavieng area received 17 of the bombs which were observed to overshoot the positions. One bomb hung up and was jettisoned. Results of the strike were not seen.

For the Record:

6 PV-1s NZ 1, NZ 4, KAVIENG-PANAPAI 0839 dr 36x250 G.P.

Patrols Put 4 Tons on New Ireland: On Thursday a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept New Ireland from 1450 to 1845. Bad weather over the Southeastern section of the Island caused them to cross over from Cape Lemeris to Dampit, leaving the southern sector unswept. A pair of 1000 pounders were put on Panapai Guns (131096) with unobserved results. Huts were strafed with unassesed damage. The same track was covered twice. From 1750 to 1910 on Thursday a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs guarded Kavieng. They dropped a pair of half tonners on a building in the area. The structure was missed but a revetted area was hit with unseen results. On Friday two NZ 25 Corsairs patrolled Kavieng from 0700 to 0855. A pair of Half ton stick bombs were dumped in a hut area at 150130 just below North Cape. Damage was not assessed. Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs made a complete sweep of the New Ireland coast from 0630 to 1045 on Friday. They delivered a pair of half tonners to a bridge at Pinikindu and strafed fires and huts with unobserved results.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 21 June 1450-1845 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 21 June 1750-1910 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 22 June 0700-0855 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 22 June 0630-1045 dr 2x1000 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 24 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(76 Sorties-37 1/2 Tons)

Corsairs Destroy 14 Maika Huts: At 0800 the leader of a flight of 12 NZ 22 Corsairs sighted a collection of Huts Northeast of Maika and smoked them. In addition to the smoke, 12 half ton bombs were put on the area for good coverage. At least 14 huts were destroyed (confirmed by aircraft making flight over the position at about noon).

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 22 NE MAIKA 0800 dr 12x1000 G.P.

Corsairs Support Aussie Mobiai Advances: On the 22 June Australian patrols operating in the vicinity of the point where the Buin road crosses the Mobiai River located well defended enemy positions (at 075356-081353) along the river. Two targets were defined for air support to hit. At 0840 twelve Corsairs of NZ 18 carried 7 half tonners and five 700 pound depth charges in over the area (075356-081353). Two bombs fell West of the target area; the remainder were in for good coverage, but damage was not seen.
These aircraft were followed at 0845 by another 12 Corsairs of NZ 15 carrying three 700 pound depth charges and eighteen 650 pound depth charges. Two of the 650 pound depth charges proved to be duds. The remainder of the bombs fell in the area for good coverage, but results were not seen. In addition to bombing, 36 strafing runs were carried. One run produced a small yellow ground flash from the Northeast corner of the target.
At 1135 another twelve Corsairs of NZ 18 carried ten 1000 pounders and two 700 pound depth charges in over the area. One half tonner was a dud; the remaining 11 bombs produced good coverage of artillery-smoked target (083352-084349). Results were not observed.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 18 MOBIAI-A 0840 dr 7x1000 G.P.
                                                  5x700 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 15 0845 dr 3x700 D.C.
                                 18x650 D.C. (2 duds).
12 F4Us NZ 18 MOBIAI-B 1135 dr 10x1000 G.P. (1 dud).
                                                   2x700 D.C.

Nabaku Huts Hit with 7 1/2 Tons: At 1138 one Corsairs from NZ 22 smoked a collection of huts near Nabaku (SW Interior Bougainville). The target was then struck by 12 Corsairs of NZ 15 carrying twenty-two 650 pound depth charges and one 700 pound depth charge. Three bombs fell wide of the target to the North; the remainder fell in the area for fair coverage. Smokey-Joe reported that one
30'x15' thatched hut was probably destroyed.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 15 NABAKU 1140 dr 22x650 D.C.
                                                 1x700 D.C.

Tabago Huts Destroyed: At 1145 eleven Corsairs of NZ 22 carried 11 half tonners over a hutted area Northeast of Tabago. Two bombs were jettisoned at sea due to engine trouble in the aircraft that were carrying them. The other nine bombs fell in the target area (324428) to destroy 5 large huts.

For the Record:

11 F4Us NZ 22 N.E. TABAGO 1145 dr 11x1000 G.P.

Recco Corsairs Confirms Maika Strike Damage: A mid-day target-marking and recco flight was made by a Corsair of NZ 22. The Nabaku hutted area was smoked for attack by aircraft of NZ 15 (see above). A single half ton bomb was dropped on huts near Makaroi (SW Interior Bougainville). It proved to be a dud.
Reconnaisance of the Muguai area was made. A 25 foot powered caravan with 3 windows on one side was noted at 351362. Although it appeared to be unservicable, half a dozen strafing runs were carried out.
The results of this mornings strike on Maika (see above) were looked over. 14 huts were seen to be destroyed, and many others were exposed. A hut at 367362 was still burning.
A stack of possible sandbags or oil drums was observed and strafed. Nips in foxholes near Tabago were strafed. Signs of much vehicular traffic were seen on the road across the Muliko River and up the Buin road as far as Shishigatero.

For the Record:

1 F4U NZ 22 RECCO S. BOUGAINVILLE 1200 dr 1x1000 G.P. (dud).
                                                                     2x100 Smokes.

Able Charlies Sight New Buka Garden Huts: From 0710 to 1055 four Corsairs of NZ 23 were on familiarization Able Charlie searches. At 0900 they sighted a newly cleared garden at Koto (SW Buka) and three huts, One of which was under construction, on the coast at Hanahan. At 0955 a possible gun position was noted on the Buka coast at 140270.

For the Record:

4 F4Us NZ 23 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCHES 0710-1055 dr No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(23 Sorties-19 3/4 Tons)

Bismark Sea Search Negative: A Catalina (PBY-5) has been reported missing some place between the Admiralty and the Norsols area. Four Venturas searched for it over the Bismark Sea from 0940 to 1416. A single friendly AK was sighted but there was no sign of the Missing PBY.

For the Record:

4 PV-1s NZ 1 BISMARK SEARCH 0940-1416 dr. No bombs.

Jacquinot Rabaul Patrols Destroy Trucks: Two pairs of Corsairs of NZ 20 patrolled the Gazelle Peninsula from 0630 to 1030. Adverse weather conditions cancelled further patrols. The second patrol was weathered off base and landed at Green. The first patrol strafed and destroyed a truck at Napapar Mission and another one at Bailu Plantation. No flak was encountered.

For the Record:

4 F4Us NZ 20 RABAUL PATROL 0630-1030 dr. No bombs.

NEW IRELAND

New Ireland Patrols Kill Kapsu Nips: Evening Kavieng patrol was maintained by a pair of Emirau Corsairs on Friday. They put a pair of 1000 pounders on the road at Kapsu. It was cratered.
Another pair of Emirau Corsairs swept the coast of New Ireland as fas as Borpop from 1455 to 1856 on Friday. They crossed the Island there and returned. A pair of half ton stick bombs destroyed four huts at Lelet. They strafed and burned down five more at the same Location. A sand barge and six whale boats were noted at Djaul Island.
From 0935 to 1250 on Saturday a pair of Emirau Corsairs swept New Ireland. Weather kept them off half of the Island from Namatanai Southeast. A pair of Half ton daisy cutters were dropped on huts at Konebio Plantation (Central East coast New Ireland) with unobserved results. 2 Nips were strafed and killed at Kapsu. Intense inaccurate light flak was met near Namatanai (103092)
Another pair of Emirau Corsairs guarded Kavieng from 1010 to 1150. They put a pair of half ton stick bombs on a bivouac at the Southeast end of Kavieng strip. Both bombs fell in the target area, but the damage done was not assessed. The Southwest end of the runway appeared to be under repair.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ Emirau KAVIENG PATROL 22 June 1715-1857 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ Emirau AFTERNOON SWEEP 22 June 1455-1856 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ Emirau MORNING SWEEP 23 June 0935-1250 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ Emirau KAVIENG PATROL 23 June 1010-1150 dr 2x1000 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 25 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(96 Sorties-37 1/2 Tons)

Three Flights Hit Mobiai Nips: Enemy are still reported dug in in positions defending Mobiai Ford (where the Buin Road crosses the River). The Australian 3rd Division has requested sofening up strikes prior to moving ground forces into the area. Two targets were defined: Mobiai. Ford 078349-083351, 500 by 100 yards; and S.E. Mobiai Ford 084349-086345 also 500 by 100 yards. At 0825 eleven Corsairs of NZ 22 carried 11 half tonners in over Mobiai Ford. Artillery smoked the target. All bombs fell along the East shore of the river, in the west portion of the target, for good coverage. Results were unobserved.
Twelve NZ 15 Corsairs followed in over the same target with three 700 pound depth charges and eighteen 650 pound depth charges at 0830. One bomb fell 150 yards East; the remainder fell in the Eastern portion of the target for good coverage. 37 strafing runs were also carried out. Results were unobserved. Later in the morning, at 1135, twelve Corsairs of NZ 22 put a dozen 1000 pounders on the S.E. Mobiai target. Artillery smoke was accurate. The bombs gave good general coverage of the target area. 24 strafing runs were carried out. Results were not observed.

For the Record:

11 F4Us NZ 22 MOBIAI FORD 0825 dr 11x1000 G.P.
12 F4Us NZ 15 0830 dr 3x700 D.C.
                                 18x650 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 22 SE MOBIAI FORD 1135 dr 12x1000 G.P.

Six Tons on Maika Huts: Twelve NZ 18 Corsairs carrying a dozen 1000 pounders and two 100 pound smokes took off intending to strike a force of from 70 to 80 Japs at Kaukausina. That target was weathered out. The flight leader smoked a group of six good and three unservicable huts at Maika (439328). Both smoke bombs proved to be duds. 10 of the half tonners fell 200 to 300 yards East of the target. A pair of the bombs were jettisoned at sea by a plane with hydraulic trouble and his wing man, while they were returning to base.

For the Record:

12 NZ 18 MAIKA 0855 dr 12x1000 G.P.
                                       2x100 Smokes (2 duds)

Muliko Enemy in 30 Huts Hit: AIB reports a large force of enemy occupying 30 huts on the Muliko River Northeast of the Kara Strip (311395). At 1230 thirteen Corsairs of NZ 18 carried 12 half tonners and a pair of 100 pound smokes in over the area. The smoke was accurate. Two bombs fell West of the area; the remaining eight fell on the target. Smokey Joe reported seeing three large huts at 316396 about a mile South of Tabago. At 1240 twelve more Corsairs of NZ 15 followed in on the same target with three 700 pound depth charges and sixteen 650 pound depth charges. All bombs fell in the target area with unobserved results. 24 strafing runs were also carried out with unseen affect. Although no huts were sighted in the bombed area, two or three were noted in the dense jungle 200 yards North. These huts were strafed with unobserved results.

For the Record:

13 F4Us NZ 18 MULIKO RIVER 1230 dr 12x1000 G.P.
                                                          2x100 Smokes.
12 F4Us NZ 15 1240 dr 3x700 D.C.
                                 16x650 D.C.

Buka Nips Killed by Able Charlies: Two NZ 23 Corsairs scrambled at 1035 for a weather check. Nil sightings; nil bombs. Four NZ 23 Corsairs flew Able Charlie at 0710 with negative negative results.
Four more NZ 23 Corsairs flew Able Charlie at 0810 with negative results. At 0930 four NZ 23 Corsairs on Able Charlie strafed and killed one Nip at Tanamala on the Northwest coast of Buka. One was also strafed killed at Mahalis on the Central East coast of Buka. Six more were strafed without confirmation of results at the following Buka localities: Tohatsi (NE Central), Gogohe (central E coast), and Lemanmanu (N interior). At 1020 four NZ 23 Corsairs strafed a tin hut in the vicinity of Maliusalai (Shortland Island) with unobserved results. Four more NZ 23 Corsairs flew Able Charlie searches at 1215 with negative results.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 23 WEATHER CHECK 1035 dr No bombs.
4 F4Us NZ 23 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0710 dr No bombs.
4 F4Us NZ 23 0810 dr No bombs.
4 F4Us NZ 23 0930 dr No bombs.
4 F4Us NZ 23 1020 dr No bombs.
4 F4Us NZ 23 1215 dr No bombs.

Six Huts Two Leantos Smashed by Buka Recco: At 1400 a pair of NZ 22 Corsairs took four 325 pound depth charges on a Buka target Recco flight. Two of the bombs destroyed half a dozen huts and two leantos at 189129 (Buka). One bomb was a dud; one undershot a pair of huts at 195138 with negative results. Strafing runs produced smoke from leantos at 195145.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 22 BUKA RECCO 1400 dr 4x325 D.C.

NEW BRITAIN
(17 Sorties-4 1/2 Tons)

Venturas Hit Buildings and Parks NE Edge Rabaul: An area of buildings and vehicle parks on the Northeast edge of the town of Rabaul were hit at 1014 by six Venturas of NZ 1. Three dozen 250 pounders were dropped on the target. Good coverage was obtained but results were not observed.

For the Record:

6 PV-1s NZ 1 RABAUL #60 dr 36x250 G.P.

Search for Missing PBY Negative: Four Mitchells of VMB Emirau searched from 0700 to 1600 in the area between the Admiralties and New Britain for Catalina reported missing. Searches were negative. A single Emirau Mitchell investigated an object reported at sea North of New Ireland. Results negative. Another four Mitchells and 2 Venturas of Emirau were on sub search North of New Hanover and Southeast of Emirau with negative results. Reports of Fighter action out of Jacquinot Bay have not yet been received.

For the Record:

5 PBJs VMB Emirau AIRCRAFT SEARCH 0700-1600 dr No bombs.
4 PBJs VMB Emirau SUB SEARCH dr No bombs.
2 PV-1s NZ 1 SUB PATROL dr No bombs.

NEW IRELAND
(8 Sorties-4 Tons)

Patrols Destroy New Ireland Huts and Cows: From 1700 to 1800 on Saturday a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs patrolled Kavieng. A pair of half ton daisy cutters were dropped in a hut area at Kaselok (near But But Bay NS Coast New Ireland). Damage was not assessed. Another pair of Corsairs swept the New Ireland coast as far South as Pinikindu on Saturday from 1450-1805. They were weathered off the Southeast section of the Island. One half ton daisy cutter dropped on Kapsu huts proved to be a dud, and another dropped on Lossuk bridge missed the target. A canoe, was strafed and ruined at Waum.
On Sunday two NZ 25 Corsairs patrolled Kavieng from 0725 to 0855. A pair of Half ton bombs were dropped on huts at Globig with unobserved results.
Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept the coast from 0645 to 1115. They went as far Southeast as Bopire Plantation. One 1000 pound stick bomb was dropped on huts at Amba. 3 were destroyed and several were damaged. The second bomb dropped was a dud. Huts at Bopire and Fessoa were strafed; several were left smoking; a dozen cows were killed by strafing at Patlangat.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 23 June 1700-1800 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 23 June 1450-1805 dr 2x1000 G.P. (1 dud).
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 24 June 0725- 0855 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 24 June 0645- 1115 dr 2x1000 G.P. (1 dud).

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 26 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(98 Sorties-47 1/2 Tons)

Corsairs Destroy 5 Maika Huts: Two flights of Corsairs were scheduled to strike huts at Kaukausina. However they were weathered off that target and proceeded to lay their bombs on huts in the Maika area. At 0855 12 Corsairs of NZ-18 went in over two huts at 454330, dropped 7 of the 12 thousand pounders they carried, and destroyed the huts. At 0900 the same aircraft went in over huts at reference 436-324, smoked the target, and dropped the remainder of the bomb load. 8 Corsairs of NZ-23, carrying 8 half tonners put another 4 bombs on the same target. At approximately 0905 NZ-18 smoked further huts at 473336 for NZ-23 which dropped their remaining four half tonners on the target and destroyed one hut.

For the Records

12 F NZ-18 MAIKA 0855 dr. 12x1000 G.P.
                                          2x100 Smokes.
8 F NZ-23 0900 dr. 8x1000 G.P.

Corsairs Support Aussies Moving on Mivo Nips: At 0800 twelve NZ-15 Corsairs carried three 700-pound depth charges and eighteen 650-pound depth charges over an area of Jap resistance on the Mivo River (11153405-11153430-very nearly at the three way junction of the Wapiai and Mivo Rivers and the Buin Road). Two bombs fell slightly southwest of the target; two, with delayed release, fell 200 yards south of the target, and 17 fell in the area for good coverage. Damage done was not seen. Another target in the same area was defined from 11453395 to 11503419. At 1115 twelve more Corsairs of NZ-15 carried two 700-pound depth charges, eighteen 650-pound depth charges and two 325-pound depth charges over this target. Two bombs overshot the target. 40 yards to the southwest. One bomb landed in what timber remained in the southeast portion of the target. 19 bombs gave good coverage of the northwest portion of the target. Twenty-four strafing runs were also carried out. Other results of the strike were not observed.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-15 MIVO A 0800 dr. 3x700 D.C.
                                              18x650 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ-15 MIVO B 1115 dr. 2x700 D.C.
                                              18x650 D.C.
                                                2x325 D.C.

Corsairs Destroy 13 Muguai Huts: At 1155 8 Corsairs of NZ-22 hit huts in the Muguai area (369362) with 7 half tonners and three 100-pound smokes. All the bombs fell in the area, destroying four large malthoid-roofed huts. A white-clad sailor was sighted at 361362. He disappeared before strafing could be accomplished. The main road at 362368 was observed to be deeply rutted due to much use by motor transport vehicles. Attempts have been made to camouflage the ruts by using coconut fronds. At 1436 eight more Corsairs of NZ-22 carried eight half tonners in over the same area. Six bombs fell at 369362. They destroyed a single hut 20'x15' and exposed half a dozen slit trenches. Determined machine gun fire was heard, seeming to be from gardens at 355335. One aircraft was noticed to be smoking badly and the oil pressure decreased. The plane was ditched three or four hundred yards off shore from Puriata (SW Coast Bougainville) and the pilot was rescued without injury.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ-22 MUGUAI 1155 dr. 7x1000 G.P.
                                               3x100 Smokes.
8 F4Us NZ-22 1435 dr. 8x1000 G.P.

Fire Started at Kikibatsiago: AIB reports that a large number of Nips are occupying huts at Kikibatsiago 2 miles northwest of Muguai (335403). At 1125 twelve NZ-18 Corsairs put a dozen half tonners on the area. One bomb produced a column of thick black smoke which rose to 150'; otherwise results of the strike were unobserved. At 1135 eight more Corsairs of NZ-23 followed in with eight more half tonners. All bombs were loosed in the target area with unobserved results.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-18 KIKIBATSIAGO 1125 dr. 12x1000 G.P.
8 F4Us NZ-23 1135 dr. 8x1000 G.P.

Corsairs Destroy Hut at Kanaura: AIB reports that about 100 or so Japs occupy an area at Kanaura 3 1/2 miles northwest of Kara strip. At 0805 twelve NZ-22 Corsairs hit the site (228369-226367) with a dozen half tonners and a pair of 100-pound smokes. One smoke was a dud. 10 bombs fell on the second smoke at 226367. Two bombs fell on the east side of a garden at 218347 destroying one hut and one stores shack. An unidentified vehicle under scrub foliage at 167324 was strafed and smoked. MT activity was noted in the area, and many surrender leaflets were seen on the left bank of the Mivo River near Shishigatero.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-22 KANAURA 0805 dr. 12x1000 G.P.
                                                    2x100 Smokes (1 dud).

Northeast Buka Nips Strafed: A pair of NZ-23 Corsairs on 0700 Able Charlie search strafed a single Nip between Ketskets and Hagus (northeast Buka) and two others at Cape Tanabom. Results were not observed. Another 2 NZ-23 Corsairs on Able Charlie search at 1015 strafed some huts on Laumono Island (just west of Shortland Island) with unseen results. New gardens were noted on cliffs in the vicinity of Hanahan (northeast Buka Island). A pair of NZ-23 Corsairs were scrambled at 1125 to look for a barge reported by coastwatchers. They searched from Mabiri to Tinputs (central east coast Bougainville) with negative results. Huts among trees at Arigua (central east coast Bougainville) were strafed with unobserved results.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ-23 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0700 dr. No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ-23 1015 dr. No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ-23 1125 dr. No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(46 Sorties-31 1/4 Tons)

Corsairs and Mitchells Strike Kabagada: Kabagada #11 is defined as a personell area with many active tracks and huts southwest of Talili Bay. At 0920 a pair of NZ-25 Corsairs went in over the target with four 100-pound smoke bombs. Two of the smokes were dropped on the centre of the target and one pair was returned. Four minutes later (0924) nine Mitchells dropped twenty-seven 650-pounders over the area. Two dozen of the bombs fell in the target area and three hung up to be jettisoned. Results of the strike were not observed.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ-25 KABAGADA #11 0920 dr. 2x100 Smokes.
9 PBJs VMB-EMIRAU 0924 dr. 27x650 D.C.

Venturas Strike Tobera Personnel and Supplies: Three Ventures of NZ-1 and six more of NZ-4 bombed Tobera #25 (a supply and personnel area south of Tobera airdrome) with fifty-three 250-pounders. 26 of the bombs fell in the west half of Tobera 24A; 26 fell outside the west edge of the same target area; one hang-up was jettisoned, another was returned. Damage done by the strike was not assessed.

For the Record:

9 PV-1s NZ-1, NZ-4, TOBERA #24 0924 dr. 53x250 G.P.

Ventura Practice Bombs Rokunda: In the morning a single Ventura of NZ-2 carried half a dozen quarter ton bombs to Duke of York. The load was released on Rokunda plantation. One direct hit was obtained on a jetty, with the remaining bombs clustered about the target. No flak was encountered.

For the Record:

1 PV-1 NZ-2 ROKUNDA dr. 6x500 G.P.

Gazelle Patrols Negative: From 0630 to 1640 five pairs of NZ-20 Corsairs took off from Jacquinot Bay and patrolled the Gazelle Peninsula for negative results.

For the Record:

10 F4Us NZ-20 RABAUL PATROL 0630-1640 dr. No bombs.

NEW IRELAND
(8 Sorties-3 Tons)

Corsairs Drop 3 Tons Northwest New Ireland: On Sunday a pair of Corsairs of NZ-25 swept New Ireland as far southeast as Cape Lemeris from 1450 to 1710. They were closed off the southeast portion of the target by unsatisfactory weather. A pair of half tonners were dived on huts near Lossuk Bay with unseen results. Strafing was also carried out with unobserved results. On Monday morning from 0640 to 1048 another pair of Corsairs made a 100% sweep of New Ireland. A pair of 1000-pound stick bombs were dived on a bridge at Katenbuang (E. Cent. New Ireland), for near misses. A canoe was strafed and destroyed on Duke of York. Another pair of NZ-25 Corsairs got a late start on the Monday morning Kavieng patrol due to engine troubles, They were over the area from 0715 to 0910. Two half ton daisycutters were dropped on guns at Panapai. One bomb proved to be a dud, and the other one overshot the target. Meagre inaccurate 50 calibre flak was received from 131096.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ-25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 24 June 1450-1710 dr. 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ-25 MORNING SWEEP 25 June 0640-1048 dr. 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ-25 KAVIENG PATROL 25 June 0715-0910 dr. 2x1000 G.P. (1 dud).

Pair Emirau Venturas Sub Search: Two Venturas of NZ-1 were on sub search all day northwest of Emirau. No sightings were made.

For the Record:

2 PV-1s NZ-1 SUB SEARCH 25 June dr. No bombs.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 27 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(101 Sorties-47 Tons)

Another 18 1/4 Tons On Buin Nips: Japs are still well entrenched in the area along the Buin Road between the Mivo and Mobiai Rivers, Further strikes have been requested by the 3rd Australian division to soften up the positions before ground troops move in on them. Two targets have been defined: Buin Road A, east side of Mobiai Ford (086345 to 088342) and Buin Road B, west side of Mivo ford (108338 to 111339). At 0865 twelve NZ-18 Corsairs carried seven half tonners and five 325-pound depth charges in over Buin Road A. Artillery smoke was accurate. All bombs fell in the target area for good coverage. Results were unobserved. Eight more fighters of NZ-22 followed in over the same target with 8 half tonners at 0807. All these bombs fell on the target for good coverage. Damage done was not recorded. Several hours later NZ-18 put another 12 Corsairs on the same area. They struck Buin Road B with a dozen half tonners at 1140. Eight fighters of NZ-22 followed in over Buin Road B at 1145, putting eight half tonners in the target area. 8 strafing runs were also made. Results were unobserved.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-18 BUIN ROAD A. 0805 dr. 7x1000 G.P.
                                                         5x325 D.C.
8 F4Us NZ-22 0807 dr. 8x1000 G.P.
12 F4Us NZ-18 BUIN ROAD B. 1140 dr. 12x1000 G.P.
8 F4Us NZ-22 1145 dr. 8x1000 G.P.

Ula Plastered again by 23 Corsairs: A large concentration of enemy in the Ula area were hit on the 10th and 18th of June by successful strikes. AIB reports that a pocket of enemy troops remains, however, northwest of the Kara strip from 273384 to 274381. At 1230 twelve NZ-15 Corsairs took three 700-pounders, sixteen 650-pound depth charges and two 325-pound depth charges in over the area. All bombs were strung along the centre of the target area opening it up well from 273334 to 274381. Bomb smoke prevented observation of the results. These aircraft were followed at 1235 by eleven more NZ-23 Corsairs. They dropped 11 half tonners in the target area. Results were unobserved. Many good gardens were noted along the Silibai River (southwest coast Bougainville).

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-15 ULA #1 1230 dr. 3x700 D.C.
                                              16x650 D.C.
                                               2x325 D.C.
11 F4Us NZ-23 1235 dr. 11x1000 G.P.

Uguimo Nips get 6 Tons: Twelve NZ 23 Corsairs took off to strike an enemy camp at Kaukausina. (Note: Reports just come to hand state that natives endeavored to indicate target with panels. Nips discovered them, engaged them, captured two of the panels, but all natives escaped.) The Corsairs were not able to contact TAC/R or to locate the target, so they diverted their bomb load of 12 half tonners and a pair of smokes to a Naval camp in the Uguimo area, 2 miles Southeast of the Kara strip between Makaru and Luagoa (Ref. 301318). Good coverage of the target was obtained with unobserved results. Meagre inaccurate medium flak was received from 314328.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 23 UGUIMO 0835 dr. 12x1000 G.P.
                                                  2x100 Smokes.

Muguai Huts Destroyed: 13 Corsairs of NZ 15 took off at 0740 with two 700 pound depth charges, eighteen 650 pound depth charges, and two 325 pound depth charges to attack a defended locality at Wearne's Hill. That target was weathered out, however. Two aircraft were obliged to jettison two 650 pound depth charges at sea. Due to oil trouble in one of the planes they had to return to base.
One plane located, bombed, and destroyed a single hut near Numa Numa Harbor (794306). The remaining bombs carried by the flight were put on a group of 4-plus huts near Muguai (383375). Two of the huts were destroyed.

For the Record:

13 F4Us NZ 15 NUMA NUMA-MUGUAI 0750 dr 2x700 D.C.
                                                                 18x650 D.C.
                                                                  2x325 D.C.

Maika Huts Hit: At 1435 nine NZ 18 Corsairs carried four half tonners and four 325 pound depth charges and a 100 pound smoke over the Maika area. This load of explosives was dumped on a collection of huts along the Ambutuai River at 433329. Most of the bombs fell west of the target area. The Western most area of the target was cleared, damage was not assessed. Three strafing runs were also carried out with unobserved results.

For the Record:

9 F4Us NZ 18 MAIKA 1435 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                           4x325 D.C.
                                           1x100 Smoke.

Able Charlies Strafe Launch Huts and Nips: A pair of NZ 22 Corsairs on 0700 Able Charlies search smoked 3 huts in caves on the East coast of Buka. Another pair of NZ 22 Corsairs on 1030 Able Charlie Search dropped one half ton bomb on huts near the Silibai River just Southeast of Kanaura. One was damaged. The other 1000 pounder was dropped on huts near the same river between Kanaura and Kukomara with unobserved results. Two dozen men were seen working on a wreck in Moisuru (Muguai) Bay (443312). They were strafed. One was probably killed. A small (20') launch was sighted in a cave near Numa Numa 844282. It was strafed and left smoking. A single hut on the Northeast tip of Buka was strafed with unobserved results.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 22 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0700 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 22 1030 dr 2x1000 G.P.

NEW BRITAIN
(25 Sorties-25 Tons)

Corsairs Weathered off Kabagada: A pair of Corsairs made an effort to smoke a target at Kabagada, but low clouds made the attempt unsuccessful. The fighters withdrew and covered a Dumbo from 0900 to 1320.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 GAZELLE PATROL 0900-1320 dr No bombs.

Jacquinot Corsairs Weathered off Rabaul: Usual patrols made by Jacquinot Corsairs over the Rabaul area were cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.

NEW IRELAND
(20 Sorties-16 1/2 Tons)

Venturas Strike Panapai A/A: At 1004 six Venturas of NZ 4 put three dozen 500 pounders on guns at 130097 in the Panapai area. 24 of the bombs fell about 400 yards Northwest of the target; 12 fell on the beach. Results were not noted.

For the Record:

6 PV 1s NZ 4 PANAPAI 1004 36x500 G.P.

Patrols Destroy Amba Huts Panaras Cows: On Monday a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept the New Ireland Coast from 1455 to 1915. A pair of Half ton daisycutters were deposited on Amba to destroy two huts. Another hut at Cape Sena was smoked by strafing. Four cows at Panaras (45 miles South Kavieng on West coast) were killed by strafing. Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs patrolled Kavieng from 1645 to 1915 on Monday. They put two half ton daisy cutters on huts in the Kavieng area without doing any damage observable from the air. On Tuesday two NZ 25 Corsairs swept the coast as far as Nabuto Bay from 0630 to 0935. Although they were obliged to return to base early due to electrical trouble, they did put a pair of half tonners on huts at Amba and strafed fires at Nabuto with unobserved results.
Another two Corsairs of NZ 25 guarded Kavieng from 0810 to 0905. They delivered a pair 1000 pounders to a Kavieng waterfront building. No damage to the target was seen.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 25 June 1455-1915 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 25 June 1645-1915 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 26 June 0630-0935 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 26 June 0710-0905 dr 2x1000 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

WEEKLY REPORT OF AIRCRAFT AND PILOT AVAILABILITY AS OF 26 JUNE 1945.

UNIT AND LOCATION TYPE AND NO. OF PLANES AVAIL. PLANES OPERATIONAL PILOTS AVAIL. GROUND SUPPORT UNIT

ADMIRALTIES

NZ-17                                    18 F4U                               17                          26                 NZ #4 S.U.
NZ-6FB                                    2 PBY-5                              2                           2                 *OWN
EMIRAU
VMB-413                                12 PBJ-1D                          12                         44                 VMB-413
VMB-423                                12 PBJ-1J                           12                         47                 VMB-423
VMB-433                                12 PBJ                               12                         43                 VMB-433
VMB-443                                12 PBJ                               12                         48                 VMB-443
NZ-4                                      16 PV-1                             14                          14                 NZ #10 S.U.
NZ-25                                    18 F4U                               17                         25                 NZ #5 S.U.
NZ-6FB                                    2 PBY-5                              2                          2                 *OWN

GREEN

NZ-6FB                                    3 PBY-5                              3                          3                 *OWN

JACQUINOT

NZ-2                                      15 PV-1                             13                        16                   NZ #14 S.U.
NZ-20                                    18 F4U-1D                         15                        26                   NZ #3 S.U.
NZ-21                                    18 F4U-1                           17                        26                   NZ #30 S.U.

BOUGANVILLE

VMR-152                                11 R4D-5                          11                         51                  VMR-152
VMR-153                                11 R4D-5                          10                         49                  VMR-153
NZ-15                                    18 F4U-1D                        15                         26                  NZ #2 S.U.
NZ-18                                    18 F4U-1                          16                         26                  NZ #1 S.U.
NZ-22                                    18 F4U-1                          11                         23                  NZ #31 S.U.
NZ-23                                    18 F4U-1                          15                         25                  NZ #25 S.U.

* Minor maintenance and repair by flight echelon personnel. Squadron based at HALAVO.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 28 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(75 Sorties-35 3/4 Tons)

16 Plus Maiki Huts Destroyed: On the 26 June Recco aircraft of NZ 18 located scattered groups of huts in the Maiki area, Northeast of Kahili strip. A strike on these groups of huts was planned. At 0825 twelve NZ 18 Corsairs took 12 half ton bombs and three 100 pound smokes in over the area. (defined. 431329-433329-426319-439328). The target was marked by Smoky Joe. Good coverage was obtained with the entire bomb load. Observation was difficult. It is estimated that eight huts were destroyed or damaged. Two strafing runs were made along the beach with unobserved results. At 1130 another 11 Corsairs returned to attack the same area with ten half tonners and two 100 pound smokes. The first smoke fell on the exact centre of the target at 412318. The second smoke was returned to base. One bomb undershot 30 yards; the remainder gave good coverage, and Smoky Joe reports 16 huts destroyed. Three strafing runs were made along the beach. A group of good huts were noted at 414316. One Corsair then went back on a Maiki Recco flight and noted groups of huts at 361353 and 359355.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 18 MAIKI AREA 0825 dr 12x1000 G.P.
                                                       3x100 Smokes.
11 F4Us NZ 18 1130 dr 10x1000 G.P.
                                    1x100 Smokes.

Damage 15 Destroy 8 Korasa Huts: Nine NZ 23 Corsairs, weathered off their scheduled Uguimo target, carried out a number of separate strikes as follows:
3 Corsairs put 3 half tonners on a hutted area at Korasa, 15 huts were damaged; eight were destroyed. These huts were of foreign as well as of native type. Strafing was carried out from Vasu to Cape Alexander. A hut under trees at West Cape (Poroporo) was strafed with unobserved results. Three huts on Moli Island were also strafed with unobserved results. A 20' open boat found in the same area was strafed and damaged. Two 6x6 foot white sheets were noticed on the trees, one at West Cape and one at Cape Alexander. Smoke was noted rising to 2,000 feet between Kahili end Tonolei. This appeared to be the result of the Maiki strike. A barge sighted moored to the shore at the top of Tonolei harbor. Two bursts of inaccurate medium or light were received from Mamaraua (6 degrees 45 minutes S., 156 degrees 30 minutes E).
Three of the Corsairs dropped one bomb on a jetty, West Bauvo Island (Fauro Group), for a near miss. Two bombs were layed on five huts on a ridge in the vicinity of Kariki (on the Northeast Coast of Fauro Island). Four of the huts were destroyed; one was damaged; a fire was started in the bush. Three strafing runs were made with unobserved results.
The remaining three planes put their three bombs on a garden West of Halola (South coast Shortland Island). One was a dud; the other 2 cratered the garden. A 400 gallon tank in the same area was strafed and damaged. A new hut at Manualai, South coast of Shortland, strafed with unobserved results. Many good gardens were noted at the North tip of Shortland near Komaliai Point and four good dug-outs were observed between Aliang and Halola on the South Shortland coast.

For the Record:

9 F4Us NZ 23 FAURO-SHORTLAND 1230 dr 9x1000 G.P.

Shishigatero Defenses bombed: Jungle Cleared: At 0810 nine NZ 22 Corsairs carried 9 half ton bombs in over the enemy defended positions at Shishigatero (near Buin Road Mivo River Crossing-105338-107338). There was no artillery smoke and the flight was unable to contact the ground station. The target was indicated by the bomb of the lead plane. The area was well cleared, the clearing extended further East than required and the first Western 50 yards of the area was neglected. 27 strafing runs were made over the whole area. Results of the strike were not observed.

For the Record:

9 F4Us NZ 22 SHISHIGATIRO 0810 dr 9x1000 G.P.

Tobago Huts Destroyed: Eleven NZ 23 Corsairs carried 11 half ton bombs in over Tobago at 0845. Eight bombs landed in the target area (326416); three fell along the road 100 yards North. Two huts were destroyed and a pile of de-barked logs was scattered. No other evidences of fuel and supply storage were noted although POW and AIB reports state that the Jap 17th Army has supplies in the area.

For the Record:

11 F4Us NZ 23 TOBAGO 0845 dr 11x1000 G.P.

Last Mobiai Hit Again: Softening up of Jap defenses in the Mobiai area continued with a strike on a target defined as an area of 200 yards along the Buin Road and fifty yards on either side (from 093338 to 095338). At 1110 nine Corsairs of NZ 22 dropped 9 half tonners on the area. Six bombs fell in the target area; one overshot 50 yards to the South; one 100 yards to the North; one bomb was a dud. Artillery smoke was accurate; good coverage was obtained; results were not observed.

For the Record:

9 F4Us NZ 22 E. MOBIAI 1110 dr 9x1000 G.P. (1 dud).

Aussies Supported at Wearne's Hill: The 23rd Brigade made a
request for the bombing and strafing of an area East of Old Vivie (693175-695177) defended by 30 to 40 Japs. The object of the strike is to open up the jungle and expose the defenses to coordinated attack from ground units. The target consists of in area about 100 by 300 yards in extent. At 1130 eight NZ 15 Corsairs hit this Wearne's Hill target with a dozen 650, one 700, and a pair of 325 pound depth charges. Contact with the ground station was very good. Drifting low cloud cover patially obscured the target and delayed the bombing. Four of the bombs undershot; the balance were reported by ground station to be right on the centre of the target. 24 strafing runs were executed with unobserved results.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ 15 WEARNE'S HILL 1130 dr 12x650 D.C.
                                                          1x700 D.C.
                                                          2x325 D.C.

Recco and Able Charlies Locate Gardens Huts and Barge: A pair of NZ 15 Fighters made a recco flight over the Tabago area at 1340. Well worn tracks and huts were sighted near Tabago (at 320417 and 323419). Six huts just West of Kikibatsiago (310393) were hit with the three 650 pound depth charges that the planes were carrying. One bomb overshot 20 yards; two undershot; results probably negative. A pair of NZ 15 Corsairs were on Able Charlie search at 0700. A possible enemy barge was sighted just South of Madehas Island on the Northwest coast of Bougainville (not positively identified-not strafed). Cave dwellings along the coast of Hanahan Bay were strafed with unobserved results. Conical mounds, possibly camouflaged huts, 200-300 yards inland from the Northeast Buka coast road, were strafed with unobserved results. At 1010 another pair of NZ 15 Corsairs were on Able Charlie search. The barge reported by previous flight was definitely identified as Australian. The conical mounds on North Buka were observed closely; it was thought that they might be rubbish piles.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 15 TABAGO RECCO 1340 dr 3x650 D.C.
2 F4Us NZ 15 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0700 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 15 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 1010 dr No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(No Sorties-No Bombs)

Due to bad weather all flights over New Britain planned by Jacquinot and Emirau units were cancelled.

NEW IRELAND
(4 Sorties-2 Tons)

Bad Weather Curtails Wednesday New Ireland Operations: A pair of NZ 25 Corsairs guarded Kavieng from 1700 to 1815 on Tuesday. Two 1000 pounders were dropped on huts at Baudissin Plantation. One was a dud; the other was a direct hit on two huts; results were not seen. Weather obliged an early return to base. Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept the New Ireland Coast as far as Pinikindu from 1500 to 1815. A couple of half tonners scored near misses on a bridge at Mongai (About 22 miles SE Kavieng). Coastal huts were also strafed with unobserved results.
All Wednesday morning flights and strikes cancelled due to bad weather.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 26 June 1700-1815 dr 2x1000 G.P. (1 dud)
2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 26 June 1500-1815 dr 2x1000 G.P.

[chinapilot]

Jacquinot Plane Lost Ulu Island: Two Corsairs of NZ 21 which had landed at Green due to bad weather took over Rabaul Patrol from 0900 to 0950 on Wednesday. On Thursday, from 0630 to 1630 five pairs of NZ 20 Corsairs patrolled the Rabaul area. While strafing a canoe (at 0920) on the Northwest coast of Ulu Island (Duke of York group), Warrant Officer Warren was lost from the view of his wingman, who searched the area with negative results. An orgainzed search located a crashed aircraft on the Northwest coast of Ulu Island. The plane appeared to be completely wrecked and there was no sign of the pilot. During the search over Ulu, meagre, inaccurate, light flak was received from Manwan Point and Uri.

Charles Warren was captured and became one of the few POWs to survive in the Rabaul POW ‘camp’ - most were murdered or died of sickness.

The other known NZ POWs held there;

Frank Keefe

Norman Vickers

‘Died due to disease and neglect’

John McFarlane

‘Fate unknown’

These official terms don’t really sum up the hellhole that would have been that ‘camp’ and the suffering they, along with the others , would have had to endure.

Warren was fortunate that he wasn’t there a few months earlier when a large number were murdered and buried in a mass grave which was discovered in c1970.

Officers were normally flown to Japan and mostly survived - ‘Pappy’ Boyington being the most well known.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 29 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(49 Sorties-l7 3/4 Tons)

Corsairs Clear Jungle Along Mivo River: This strike on the Mivo Ford district is one of several calculated to soften up the enemy defended positions so that ground forces can occupy the area on the 29 June. The strike was not coordinated with troop movement. At 0840 twelve NZ 15 Corsairs carried one 700, eight 350 and fourteen 325 pound depth charges over the area. All bombs fell in the East portion of the target area (at 111346-113345) for good coverage. One bomb produced dense black smoke. Strafing was carried out. Other results of the strike were unobserved.
At 0850 ten NZ 22 Corsairs followed in over the same area with ten half ton bombs. The principal portion of the target and an area extending slightly further to the West were fairly well cleared. Two small belts of timber are left standing, 36 strafing runs were carried out. Results of the strike were unobserved.
Three freshly camouflaged leantos were noted on the Buin road (125342). Directly opposite the leantos on the Northern side of the road, vehicle tracks turning off the road could be observed. The appearance of the area seems to indicate that it contains store dumps and a truck park.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 15 MIVO RIVER A 0840 dr. 1x700 D.C.
                                                        14x325 D.C.
                                                          8x350 D.C.
10 F4Us NZ 22 0850 dr 10x1000 D.C.

19 Piva Corsairs Blast Uguimo: At 0950 twelve NZ 23 Corsairs which were weathered off their scheduled Maiki strike put their load of 12 half tonners on a naval unit camp in the Uguimo district (295316-297318). They were followed over the the same area at 0955 by seven NZ 18 Corsairs carrying four 1000 pounders, two 650 pound depth charges, and a pair of 100 pound smokes. The lather flight put their entire bomb load in a line across the area (at about 297318). Results of the strike were not observed.
At Maiki many footprints were noted, going from the beach to a track at approximately 440337. At 20 degrees from Cape Torokina, 20 statute miles out, a 100 yard square of river debris was noted.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 23 UGUIMO 0950 dr 12x1000 G.P.
7 F4Us NZ 18 0955 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                 2x650 D.C.
                                 2x100 Smokes.

Able Charlies Sight Activity at Arigua and Toimonapu: A pair of NZ 18 Corsairs were scrambled at 0735, and two more of NZ 18 were scrambled at 1015 for weather checks. A pair of NZ 18 Corsairs went on Able Charlie at 1635 with negative results. Two more NZ 18 Corsairs were on Able Charlie search at 1015. They sighted what appeared to be a covered slit trench on the Northeast corner of Arigua plantation (Central East Coast Bougainville). There were well-kept gardens in the Vicinity; and huts were noted in nearby wooded area.
At Toimonapu, Southeast coast of Bougainville, a large, well-kept, new-looking hut was noted (at 415778). About 80 yards North was a shelter 6' high by 10' by 10' with three possible oil drums outside it.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 18 WEATHER RECCO 0735 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 18 1015 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 18 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 1635 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 18 1015 dr No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(6 Sorties-9 Tons)

Rabaul gets 9 More Tons: At 1040 six Venturas of NZ Emirau carried three dozen quarter ton bombs over Rabaul. The load was dumped on a very active personnel area situated on the East coast, due East of "the Mother" mountain. 35 of the bombs fell on the target for unseen damage; one hung up and was jettisoned at sea.

For the Record:

6 PV-1s NZ Emirau RABAUL #15 1040 dr 36x500 G.P.

Nip PW Reports Allied Bombs Accurate: It is of interest to quote an extract from a recent Bougainville PW report: "Allied bombing is very accurate. There isn't a unit that has not been bombed to some extent. 17 Army HQ was completely destroyed at one time. Since PW's unit was located in an out of the way location in the open field, it has not been bombed."

NEW IRELAND
(8 Sorties-4 Tons)

Emirau Corsairs Sweep New Ireland Coast: Two Corsairs of NZ 25 swept the coast of New Ireland from 1455-1900 to Cape St George on Wednesday. Two 1000 pounders cratered the Kimadan road and huts along the road were strafed. The results of the strafing were not seen.
From 1705 to 1900 Wed., 2 Corsairs of NZ 25 patrolled Kavieng dropping two 1000 pounders on huts at Ululnono. Three huts were destroyed and four more were damaged.
From 0620 to 1000 Thu., 2 NZ 25 Corsairs on the dawn sweep attacked huts at Lamussong with two 1000 pounders, but no damage was reported.
From 0700 to 0920 a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs patrolling Kavieng dropped two 1000 pounders both bombs hitting in the water. They proceeded to strafe huts at Kono which is located on the Sourthern shore of the Northern tip of the island. No smoke was seen as a result of the strafing.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 1455-1900 dr 2x1000 G.P. (27 June).
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 1705-1900 dr 2x1000 G.P. (27 Jure).
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 0620-1000 dr 2x1000 G.P. (28 June).
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 0700-0920 dr 2x1000 G.P. (28 June).

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 30 June 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(91 Sorties-31 3/4 Tons)

85 Corsair Sorties Support Troops near Shishigatero: The 57/60 BN and the 24 BN of the 3rd Australian Division were scheduled to move into Jap held positions on the Buin Road in the Shishigatero area (between the Mivo and Mobiai Rivers). A maximum strike was requested to coordinate with the movement of the troops. Three target areas were defined: Shishigatero, 800 yards along the Buin road, extending 100 yards North and 25 to 50 yards South from 107338 to 115339; West Shishigatero, 750 yards along the Buin road extending 100 yards North and 50 yards South from 091339 to 098337, covering the Western approach to Mivo Ford; East Mivo Ford, 117340 to 123342, astride the Buin road on the East side of Mivo River, area containing Nips available for possible counter attack.
The first two targets were struck at 0807 and 1109. Unfortunately weather prevented going in over the East Mivo Ford target.
Shishigatero: At 0807, 12 Corsairs of NZ 22 carried a dozen half tonners over the target. Artillery smoke was accurate. Concentrated and effective coverage of the target was obtained with the entire bomb load. The only portions of the target left uncleared by the strike were small areas on the South side of the road.
At 0810 twelve NZ 15 Corsairs followed in over the same target with a pair of 700 and twenty 350 pound depth charges. All bombs fell in the Northwest section of the target area with unobserved results.
At 0812 eleven NZ 18 Corsairs followed in with four half tonners and seven 650 pound depth charges. All bombs fell in the target area with unobserved results.
At 0820 eight NZ 23 Corsairs completed the strike with a pair of half tonners, and six 650 pound depth charges. Bombs gave good coverage of the target area; thirty-two strafing runs were also carried out. Results of the strike were not observed. West Shishigatero: At 1109 eleven Corsairs of NZ 15 carried one 700 pound depth charge and twenty 350 pound depth charges over the West Shishigatero target area from 091339 to 098337. No contact with the ground station was obtained; ground troop indicator panels were not seen. Artillery smoke was satisfactory. All bombs fell on the target from the West edge 100 yards into the area, causing two flashes to tree top height followed by smoke up to 1,000 feet.
At 1111 twelve Corsairs of NZ 18 went in over the target with four half tonners and eight 650 pound depth charges. Good coverage of the second 100 yards (from the West edge of the target) was obtained. Results were not observed.
At 1115 twelve Corsairs of NZ 22 took a dozen 650 pound depth charges in to the same target. All bombs gave good coverage, tending toward the Western portion of the area. Damage done was not seen.
At 1120 seven NZ 23 Corsairs completed the strike with a pair of half tonners and three 250 pound depth charges. All bombs fell on the target, mainly in the West portion of the area.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 22 SHISHIGATERO 0807 dr 12x1000 G.P.
12 F4Us NZ 15 0810 dr 2x700 D.C.
                                 20x350 D.C.
11 F4Us NZ 18 0812 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                  7x650 D.C.
8 F4Us NZ 23 0820 dr 2x1000 G.P.
                                6x650 D.C.
11 F4Us NZ 15 WEST SHISHIGATERO 1109 dr 1x700 D.C.
                                                                 20x350 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 18 1111 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                  8x650 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 22 1115 dr 12x650 D.C.
7 F4Us NZ 23 1120 dr 2x1000 G.P.
                                2x650 D.C.
                                3x250 D.C.

Late Strikes Weathered Out: At 0700 a pair of NZ 23 Corsairs carried out an Able Charlie Search with negative results. At 0930 and at 1235 two aircraft of NZ 23 were scrambled for weather checks. Late-scheduled afternoon flights did not take off, due to unsatisfactory weather.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 23 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0700 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 23 WEATHER RECCO 0930 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 23 1235 dr No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(No Sorties-No Bombs)

All Friday strikes and Patrols cancelled due to bad weather. 29 June dispatch from Jacquinot Bay reports: ".... 12.5 inches for last 24 hours.......''.

NEW IRELAND (4 Sorties-2 Tons)

Belik Beach Nip Killed: All Friday strikes and Patrols were weathered out of the New Ireland area. On Thursday a pair of Emirau Corsairs patrolled Kavieng 1710 to 1900 put a pair of dud half tonners on Kapsu huts. Another pair of Emirau Corsairs swept the coast as far as Namatanai from 1450 to 1900, putting two 1000 pounders on huts at Panemans, South Fangelawa Bay. Neither bomb exploded. One Nip was strafed and killed at Belik Beach.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ-Emirau KAVIENG PATROL 28 June 1710-1900 dr 2x1000 (2 dud).
2 F4Us NZ-Emirau AFTERNOON SWEEP 28 June 1450-1900 dr 2x1000 (2 dud).

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 01 July 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(51 Sorties-14 Tons)

Corsairs Put 9 1/2 Tons on Kikibatsiago: A large number of high-ranking Jap officers and men are reported by AIB to be in the Kikibatsiago area 316398-318399-315394. The area is reported to contain many huts, various small arms ammo dumps and machine guns. No Anti-aircraft is reported in the area however. It is said that large stocks of rice are held in the area and issued to troops leaving for the combat zone. Three flights struck the Kikibatsiago area from 0800 to 0815.
At 0800 seven NZ 22 Corsairs carried five 250 pounders and four 650 pounders over the target area. One aircraft had engine trouble, returned to base, and jettisoned its single 250 pounder at sea. Five bombs overshot; one was on the target. Low clouds hampered bombing operations. 20 strafing runs were also carried out.
At 0805 twelve NZ 18 Corsairs took two 1000 pounders five 650 pound depth charges and five 350 pound depth charges in over the target for good coverage.
At 0815 the strike was completed by twelve NZ 15 Corsairs carrying one 700 pound depth charge, two 650 pound depth charges and eighteen 350 pound depth charges. One bomb produced a large flash and moderate columm of black smoke inside the target area.
Some of the damage done by the over-all strike was noted. Three huts were destroyed and one was damaged. Foxholes were uncovered and fresh MT tracks were noted leading into the area. A number of piles of split logs were seen.
A large concentration of huts was noticed (at 363374) near Muguai. In the same area on Nip was strafed and probably killed (at 356371).

For the Record:

7 F4Us NZ 22 KIKIBATSIAGO 0800 dr 5x250 G.P.
                                                       4x650 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 18 0805 dr 2x1000 G.P.
                                  5x650 D.C.
                                 5x350 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 15 0815 dr 1x700 D.C.
                                  2x650 D.C.
                                18x350 D.C.

Corsairs Support Wearne's Hill Troops: At 1145 twelve NZ 15 Corsairs carried three 650 pound depth charges and eighteen 350 pound depth charges over the Wearne's Hill area. A target was layed out (from 695174 to 695176) which framed Jap defensive positions in the area. Artillery layed down smoke which appeared to be very close to Australian troops. However, it was repeated, so the smoke was bombed. One aircraft returned early due to engine trouble, jettisoning two 350 pound depth charges at sea. A single 650 pound depth charge failed to release and was jettisoned at sea. One bomb overshot the target 100 yards to the Northeast. All the remainder fell in the area for good coverage. In addition six strafing runs were made. Results of the strike were not seen.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 15 WEARNE'S HILL 1145 dr 3x650 D.C.
18x350 D.C.

Able Charlies Strafe Buka Huts: A pair of NZ 22 Corsairs were on Able Charlie search at 0700. They strafed four Nips in a garden near Old Umbo (355436) with unseen results. Two groups of huts in good condition were observed on the West coast of choiseul near Moli Island. At 1010 two NZ 22 Corsairs were on Able Charlie search. They strafed a fire under trees on the shore directly South of the Little Siwi River (325226). What appeared to be a pair of oil drums lashed together with a mast and a white flags were sighted in the water between Maifu Island and Kangu. A group of about two dozen huts of diverse sizes, apparently new and in good condition, were seen in a cluster under trees near Gagan (Central interior Buka-150030). Sixteen strafing runs were made with unobserved results. Two or three other huts were noted under trees on the shore near the Southwest tip of Buka (108780). A possible camouflaged barge was also noted under bushes in the area.
At 0835 and again at 1005 two plane weather check hops were scrambled by NZ 22.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 22 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0700 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 22 1010 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 22 WEATHER RECCO 0835 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 22 1005 dr No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(No Sorties-No Bombs )

All sorties scheduled for the New Britain area were cancelled due to bad weather. All Jacquinot Bay flights were grounded due to bad weather.

NEW IRELAND
(37 Sorties-43 Tons)

Venturas Bomb Strafe Pinikindu and Pire: At 1006 a trio of Venuras (NZ-4) took 16 quarter ton bombs to the tip of the point at Pinikinu. One hangup was jettisoned; one was returned to base. The remainder fell in the area for probable damage, but results were not observed. 3o00 rounds of MG ammo were expended in strafing. At 1035 another three NZ 4 Venturas went in over New Ireland with 18 quarter tonners. 17 of these bombs fell in a hut area at Pire villiage. One fell in the sea. Strafing was carried out; three Nips were killed thereby.

For the Record:

3 PV-1s NZ 4 PITIKINDU 1006 dr 17x500 G.P.
3 PV-1s NZ 4 PIRE TOWN 1035 dr 18x500 G.P.

Corsairs Destroy Huts Crater Road New Ireland: A pair of NZ 25 Corsairs were on Kavieng patrol from 0700 to 0855. They dived a pair of half tonners on a bridge at Balus. One bomb was a dud, one cratered the road. Huts in the Mongai Bay area and on Globig Island were strafed with unobserved results. Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs made a full sweep of New Ireland from 0705 to 1055. Four 500 pounders were dropped in huts opposite Bit Island. One hut was destroyed; others received possible damage.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 0700-0855 dr 2x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 0705-1055 dr 4x500 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 02 July 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(96 Sorties-32 Tons)

First Jap BN Plastered at Maika: AIB reports that the Nips are occupying the Maika area Northwest of Kahili strip in some force and that they have some stores in that area. Two targets for air strike were defined: Maika A (361353-359355), 27-32 huts, reported to be living quarters 1st BN of Jap 4th South Seas Garrison Unit with a strength of approximately 200 Nips. (the target was weathered over on 30th June, when strike was also planned).
Maika B (354352-354349), four large houses, each about 100 feet long reported by AIB to be in use for the storage of meat, rice, tobacco, clothing, and small arms equipment.
At 0805 twelve NZ 23 Corsairs went in over Maika A with four half tonners, four 650 pound depth charges, and four 250 pound GPs. All the bombs were dropped at approximately 361353 (as smoked by NZ 15). Results of this element of the strike were not seen due to the presence of a low ground fog.
At about 0810 eight NZ 15 Corsairs were over the same area. They dropped one 650 and twelve 350 pound depth charges plus two 100 pound smokes at approximately 359355. One smoke was was a dud, so the target was indicated by strafing. During the strafing a dozen Nips were seen to run for cover. All bombs fell on the target area except three which landed slightly South. Three huts were destroyed; several were seen to be left intact in the North portion of the target. Smoky Joe returned and made one strafing run, hoping to surprise the Nips. The results of the run were not observed.
Later in the day, at 1210, an eight Corsair flight of NZ 15 led a strike on Maika B with one 650 and twelve 350 pound smokes, one 100 pound incendiary, and one 100 pound smoke. It was necessary to orbit the target for 30 minutes until the weather cleared. All bombs fell in the target area after it had been smoked by Smoky Joe.
At 1220 NZ 23 put twelve Corsairs over the target with four 1000 pounders, four 650 pound depth charges, and four 250 pound GPs. All bombs fell in the target area as marked by NZ 15 Smoky Joe. Four Nips in a garden Southwest of the target were strafed and probably killed. Meagre medium inaccurate flak was reported from 062080 and 070070 (Kara Flak Mosaic F373).
As a result of this strike, twelve huts were destroyed. Many were observed to be still intact warranting another strike. A group of three huts were also noted at about 353348. Two columns of smoke were noted over the target after the strike. One column was white; one was black.
At 1515 four Corsairs (a pair from NZ 15, and pair from NZ 23) went back over the Maika area. The two NZ-15 aircraft carried four 1000 pounders with 4/5 seconds delay. The two NZ 23 planes carried a pair of similar bombs. Four trucks, loaded with what appeared to be rice, were strafed (at 354353) with unobserved results. Many more huts were seen in the same area and a camouflaged depression surrounded by sandbages was seen in a garden near the target. Three huts were destroyed; one Nip was killed (in a garden near target). A vehicular bridge, a fifty foot hut, a thatched hut, three other huts, sacks of vegetables, and mg position and a smoke fire were also strafed with unobserved results. A considerable amount of stored material was noted scattered from the huts as a result of the earlier strikes.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 23 MAIKA-A 0805 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                                4x650 D.C.
                                                4x250 G.P.
8 F4Us NZ 15 0810 dr 1x650 D.C.
                               12x350 D.C.
                                2x100 Smokes. (2 duds).
8 F4Us NZ 15 MAIKA-B 1210 dr 1x650 D.C.
                                            12x350 D.C.
                                             1x100 Incend.
                                             1x100 Smokes.
12 F4Us NZ 23 1220 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                  4x650 D.C.
                                  4x250 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 15 1515 dr 4x1000 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 23 1515 dr 2x1000 G.P.

Eight Assorted Tons for Kikimogu Nips: At Kikimogu, approximately 5 1/2 miles Northwest of Kara strip (at 228373) AIB reports a collection of huts occupied by about 100 Japs.
At 0825 twelve NZ 18 Corsairs went in over the area with four 1000 pounders, four 650 and four 350 pound depth charges plus a pair of 100 pound smokes. The first three bombs fell from 50 to 100 yards West of the South portion of the target. The remainder strung through from the Southern edge to the center of the target. One house was destroyed and one was damaged. The jungle in the area was well cleared. At 1210 twelve NZ 18 Corsairs returned to the same target with four 1000 pounders, four 650 and three 350 pound depth charges, one 250 pound stick bomb and two 100 pound smokes. The target was indicated by the smokes. The 250 pound stick bomb failed to explode for unknown reason. One bomb fell 150 yards Southwest of the target, two in the center, and the remainder in an area of about 100 by 50 yards square just South of the center of the target. Two small huts were badly damaged; otherwise the results of the strike were unobserved.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 18 KIKIMOGU 0825 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                                  4x650 D.C.
                                                  4x350 D.C.
                                                  2x100 Smokes.
12 F4Us NZ 18 1210 dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                  4x650 D.C.
                                  2x350 D.C.
                                  1x250 S.B. (1 dud).
                                  2x100 Smoke.

Mivo Jungle Cleared Leantos Destroyed by 24 Corsairs: The 3rd Australian Division requested softening up strikes on Jap defenses in the Mivo area. Two targets were layed out as follows:
East Mivo A, (117340-119340), enemy defended area 300x100 yards, defensive position East bank Mivo River covering Buin road.
East Mivo B, (119340-122341), 300x100 yards enemy defended territory containing three 75mm guns used as anti-tank weapons.
Allied patrols have had difficulty getting close to this area due to alertness of enemy sentries.
The attacks on these targets are not coordinated with ground troop movement. They are part of a six day softening up program.
At 0815 twelve NZ 22 Corsairs carried four 1000 pounders, four 650 pound depth charges and seven 250 pound GPs over East Mivo "A". Artillery smoke was accurate. One 1000 pounder hung due to electrical trouble. It was returned to base due to inability to jettison. The remainder of the bombs gave good coverage of the area, leaving only one small patch of brush standing in the Northeast corner.
At 1115 another twelve NZ 22 Corsairs carried three 1000 and three 250 pounders plus a pair of 325 and five 650 pound depth charges over East Mivo B.
The leaders bomb marked the target. Very good coverage of the area was obtained, tending toward the East portion of the target.
Cloud cover was too low to carry out strafing which had been planned. Three leantos were destroyed.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 22 E. MIVO A 0815 dr 3x1000 G.P. 4x650 D.C. 7x250 G.P.
12 F4Us NZ 22 E. MIVO B 1115 dr 3x1000 G.P.
3x250 G.P. 2x325 D.C. 5x650 D.C.

Able Charlies Strafe Bougainville-Buka Structures: A pair of NZ 15 Corsairs on 0655 Able Charlie search sighted a native type canoe in Kobuan Bay (central East coast Bougainville). A pillbox facing seawards 2 miles South of Lontis (Northwest Buka) and a 10 by 15 foot blue structure (possibly a raft) East of Cape Dunganon were strafed with unobserved results. A new looking hut near Gagan was strafed. There were well-worn tracks in the vicinity. At 1055 a pair of NZ 15 Corsairs went on Able Charlie. Two huts were strafed half way down the cliff at Hanahan Bay. An unidentified dinghy was sighted outside the reef West of Sal Island (off the Northwest coast of Bougainville).

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 15 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0655 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 15 1055 dr No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(29 Sorties-39 Tons)

Venturas and Mitchells Deliver 20 Tons Rabaul: Eight Venturas of NZ 4 loaded with four dozen 250 pounders took off to strike a collection of under ground shelters and living quarters off Sulphur Creek on the East side of Simpson Harbor. The bomb load was delivered at 0846. It was strung along Sulphur Creek to the Northeast end of the target without damage to the target.
One plane crashed on take off, killing three, seriously wounding one, and leaving one man unhurt. At 0939 nine Emirau Mitchells hit a large concentration of huts in the Rabaul area with 108 two hundred and sixty pound fragmentation bombs. Half the load fell fell 200 yards West and half about 250 yards North without doing any observable damage.

For the Record:

8 PV-1s NZ 4 RABAUL 39 0846 dr 48x250 G.P.
9 PBJs VMB Emirau RABAUL 4 0939 dr 108x260 Frag.

Weather Grounds Jacquinot Planes: Patrols scheduled by Corsairs stationed at Jacquinot Bay were all grounded due to bad weather, heavy rains.

NEW IRELAND
(16 Sorties -15 Tons)

Patrols Smash Four New Ireland Huts: On Saturday a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs were on dusk sweep over New Ireland from 1525 to 1955. Four 500 pounders were dropped on a trio of huts at Pinikindu. Two were duds; one was a direct hit; two huts were destroyed. A bridge opposite Pinis Island was just missed by the fourth bomb. Nips and huts at Sali and the Soalaba River were strafed with unobserved results. Another Pair of NZ 25 Corsairs on late Kavieng patrol (from 1735 to 1845 Saturday) dived four 500 pounders on huts between Kaut and Korabin. Damage was unobserved.
On Sunday 2 NZ 25 Corsairs watched Kavieng from 0700 to 0855. A pair of 500 pounders were dived at A/A positions on Panapai strip; a pair were dropped on huts at Lebrechtshof.
Two huts were destroyed; there was no damage to the guns. Meagre inaccurate light A/A was received from 132096. It was not tracered.
Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept as for as Cape Narum on Saturday from 0700 to 1045. They dived four 500 pounders into huts at Robert Young plantation (near Doi Island). There was no visible damage. Huts were strafed and smoked at Elizabeth Bay.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 30 June 1525-1955 dr 4x500 G.P. (2 dud)
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 30 June 1735-1845 dr 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 1 July 0700-0855 dr 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 1 July 0700-1045 dr 4x500 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

WEEKLY REPORT OF AIRCRAFT AND PILOT AVAILABILITY AS OF 3 JULY 1945.

UNIT AND LOCATION TYPE AND NO. OF PLANES AVAIL. PLANES OPERATIONAL PILOTS AVAIL. GROUND SUPPORT UNIT

ADMIRALTIES

NZ-17                                                  18 F4U                          17                       26                NZ # 4 S.U.
NZ-6FB                                                  2 PBY-5                        2                         4                *OWN

EMIRAU

VMB-413                                             12 PBJ-1D                     12                        44               VMB-413
VMB-423                                             12 PBJ-1J                      12                        45               VMB-423
VMB-433                                             12 PBJ                          12                        46               VMB-433
VMB-443                                             12 PBJ                          12                        46               VMB-443  
NZ-4                                                   15 PV-1                        15                        14               NZ #10 S.U.
NZ-25                                                 18 F4U                          17                       25                NZ #5 S.U.
NZ-6FB                                                 2 PBY-5                        2                         4                *OWN

JACQUINOT

NZ-2                                                  15 PV-1                         13                       16               NZ #14 S.U.
NZ-19                                                18 F4U-1                       12                       27               NZ #30 S.U.
NZ-20                                                18 F4U-1D                     15                       26               NZ #3 S.U.
NZ-6FB                                                3 PBY-5                         3                         6               *OWN 

BOUGAINVILLE

VMR-152                                            11 R4D-5                      11                        50              VMR-152
VMR-153                                            11 R4D-5                      10                        51              VMR-153
NZ-15                                                18 F4U-1D                    14                        26              NZ #2 S.U.
NZ-18                                                18 F4U-1                      14                        26              NZ #1 S.U.
NZ-22                                                17 F4U-1                      12                        24              NZ #31 S.U.
NZ-23                                                18 F4U-1                      14                        23              NZ #25 S.U.

* Minor maintenance and repair by flight echelon personnel. Squadron based at HALAVO.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 03 July 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(91 Sorties-24 Tons)

Maika MT Park Hit: Jap 17th Army Headquarters in this area were hit on the 6, 7, and 9 June. AIB reported many huts destroyed and personnel killed. Pilots participating in the strikes brought back reports indicating the possibility of an MT Park at 360357-360362. At 0800 12 NZ 23 Corsairs took 2 half tonners, six 250 pounders and four 650 pound depth charges over the area. All bombs fell in the target for good coverage but results were not observed.
At 0805 another 12 Corsairs of NZ 22 followed in with five 250 pounders, three 650 pound depth charges and four 1000 pounders. One 250 pounder was jettisoned at sea by an aircraft returning to base with fumes in the cockpit. The remaining bombs gave reasonable coverage of the target. The combined strike destroyed five huts, damaged several others and disclosed slit trenches in addition to well built air raid shelters.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 23 MAIKA 0800 dr 2x1000 G.P.
                                             6x250 G.P.
                                             4x650 D.C.
12 F4Us NZ 22 0805 dr 5x250 G.P.
                                  3x650 D.C.
                                  4x1000 G.P.

Mivo Softening Continues: A strip of high ground (known as target East Mivo B) has been developed by the enemy to command the Buin Road bridge (at 135335). The 3rd Australian Division has requested bombing and strafing of the area. Another strongly defended piece of terrain just West of East Mivo B is known as East Mivo A.
At 0810 twelve NZ 15 Corsairs went in over the E Mivo A area with three 650, and two 350 pound depth charges and sixteen 250 pounders. Neither ground radio contact nor artillery smoke were altogether satisfactory. Fairly good coverage of the Southern portion of the target was obtained however.
At 0815 eight NZ 18 Corsairs followed, carrying two 1000 pounders, one 650 and one 350 pound depth charge, plus four 250 pound stick bombs. The stick extensions came from two of the bombs when they were released; the bombs were seen to explode, however. One bomb fell about 75 yards Northeast of the target: the remainder fell in the North portion of the area for good coverage.
Three hours later, at 1120, another 12 NZ 15 Corsairs carrried one 700 and two 650 pound depth charges plus four 250 pound stick bombs and eight 250 pound GPs over E Mivo "B" (135338-134335).
Artillery smoke was satisfactory. All bombs fell in the target area for good coverage. Clearance was poor, however. 48 strafing runs were made with unobserved results.
At 127338 two camouflaged positions (possibly concealing guns) were sighted in such a position that they commanded the bend in the road East of Mivo ford.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 15 E MIVO A 0810 dr 3x650 D.C.
                                                 2x350 D.C.
                                               16x250 G.P.
8 F4Us NZ18 dr 2x1000 G.P.
                       1x650 D.C.
                       1x350 D.C.
                       4x250 S.B.
12 F4Us NZ 15 E MIVO B 1120 dr 1x700 D.C.
                                                 2x650 D.C.
                                                 4x250 S.B.
                                                 8x250 G.P.

Score Corsairs Hit Maiko and Umbo: AIB reports that Jap Naval forces have moved in to areas (in the 3543 square) near Umbo, 4 miles North of Muguai. The second Corps requested a strike on the area.
At 1145 eight Corsairs of NZ 18 carried a pair of 1000 pounders, two 650 pound depth charges and four 250 pounders over the Old Umbo area. The first bomb acted as an indicator for the briefed target. With the exception of one which overshot 50 yards, the bombs all fell near the target. Results were unobserved; no installations or personnel were sighted.
A little later twelve NZ 23 Corsairs carried four half tonners, four 650 pound depth charges and four 250 pounders over the Umbo area. The loader indicated the target with a single 1000 pound G.P. The weather then closed in and the flight proceeded to Maiki, where the remainder of the bomb load was put on a hutted area (441317-449317). All bombs fell in the target area with unobserved results. Shiny silvery objects, unidentified, were noted at the South end of Kahili strip. Four gun positions, appearing to be in disrepair, were sighted off the South coast of Bougainville on Erventa Island (433274). A fenced-off dugout with log side protection was also seen (433274).

For the Record:

F4Us NZ 18 UMBO 1145 dr 2x1000 G.P.
                                       2x650 D.C.
                                       4x250 S.B.
12 F4Us NZ 18 UMBO-MAIKI dr 4x1000 G.P.
                                              4x650 D.C.
                                              4x250 G.P.

Eleven Corsairs Bomb Chabai: The 23rd Brigade requested bombing and strafing of a suspected dump and MT Park in the Chabai area (289734) about one mile Northeast of Porton Plantation. TAC/R observed fresh track activity between trees in the area on 29 June. At 1150 eleven NZ 22 Corsairs went in over the target with four 250 pounders, three half tonners and four 650 pound depth charges.
The first bomb was used as a target marker; two overshot to the South; eight fell in the area. Although the area was fairly well opened up, no sightings were made.
After the strike a pair of the aircraft made a reconnaissance flight over Buka. Thirty good huts in two long rows were noted just North of Bekut (138004). The ground in the vicinity of these huts is well worn. Another dozen huts in good condition were noted slightly closer to Bekut. Bouth groups of huts appear to be inhabited.

For the Record:

11 F4Us NZ 22 CHABAI 1150 dr 4x250 G.P.
                                              3x1000 G.P.
                                              4x650 D.C.

Able Charlies Strafe Totabu, Maiki and Olava Nips: A pair of NZ 18 Corsairs on 0655 Able Charlie search sighted oil slicks in the channel off the Southwest coast of Bougainville (at 840290). Half a mile or so to the Southeast a jetty ten yards long was sighted. It appeared to be constructed of oil drums with earth tamped down over them. Possible foxholes covered by logs were noted on the edge of Numa Numa Plantation, about 1 1/2 miles inland, four camouflaged huts were noted in the same area. Six Nips were observed on the beach just North of Serum (Northeast coast of Bougainville). Nips were strafed with unobserved results at Totabu, Maiki, and Olava (Southeast coast of Bougainville). Another pair of NZ 18 Corsairs on 1010 Able Charlie search sighted a cave with oil drums in its mouth hidden behind a wreck in the Ruri Bay area. Many good gardens were noted from the Birieina River to Tonolei Harbor. Bunker positions camouflaged with foliage were also noted in this district. A possible gun position with a canvas top was sighted at Pupukuna.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 18 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0655 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 18 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 1010 dr No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(15 Sorties-4 Tons)

Matalai River Enemy Hit: At 1045 eleven (see note) NZ 20 Corsairs carried six 625 pound depth charges and ten 500 pounders over Jap positions at the mouth of the Matalai River on the West coast of Gazelle Peninsula. All bombs fell in the target area; four were duds; a pair of bombs caused 2 columus of white smoke. Two strafing runs were also made. Results of the strike were not observed. No A/A was encountered.

For the Record:

11 F4Us NZ 20 MATALAI RIVER 1045 dr 6x625 D.C.
                                                        10x500 G.P. (4 duds)

(Note: Number of planes in strike not reported. Above figure estimated from probable bomb leading of F4U-1D).

Weather Curtails Gazelle Patrols: The Rabaul area was covered from 0815 to 0830 by a pair of NZ 20 Corsairs. The patrol was cancelled when clouds lowered. Sightings nil. Another pair of Jacquinot Corsairs patrolled from 1345 to 1459 during temporary weather clearing. Sightings nil.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 20 RABAUL PATROL 0815-0830 dr No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ 20 1345-1459 dr No bombs.

NEW IRELAND
(8 Sorties-4 Tons)

Corsair Patrols destroy Kinebug Huts: A pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept New Ireland from 1535 to 1850 on Sunday with four quarter tonners. Two bombs were dived on Kolube huts. The area was also strafed. Fires were started. One bomb, aimed at Fessoa bridge, hung up and missed the target. The last bomb was put on Kono huts in addition to strafing, with unobserved results. A Nip was killed by strafing at Medina.
Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs were on Kavieng patrol from 1755 to 1850. Fur 500 pounders were released on Kavieng buildings (near 073086). One bomb was a near miss and the others fell wide. Results were unobserved.
A pair of NZ 25 Corsairs guarded Kavieng from 0730 to 0925. Four quarter tonners were dived on huts in the Ululnono and Kapsu areas. One miss felled trees to block the coast road; otherwise effects were unobserved.
Another pair of NZ 20 Corsairs swept the entire periphery of New Ireland from 0710 to 1056. Several huts were destroyed at Kinebug with four 500 pounders. Strafing was carried out at Konebio, Kabotorosch Harbor, and Awanlik Point, where a whale boat was sighted. Radar at Cape St. George was reported as appearing to be in servicable condition.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 1 July 1535-1850 dr 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 1 July 1755-1850 dr 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 2 July 0730-0925 dr 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 2 July 0710-1056 dr 4x500 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 04 July 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(105 Sorties - 15 Tons )

Nips Threatening AIB Hit Near Silibai: A force of Nips on the upper Silibai River were threatening an AIB camp. Target was defined (at 252468-236462) and indicated for aircraft by a flouroescent arrow.
At 1645 four NZ-22 Corsairs took four 650-pound depth charges in over the area. One bomb was jettisoned at sea due to hydraulic trouble. Although low cloud cover interferred with the bombing, the other three fell in the target area. Twelve strafing runs were carried out. Results of this element of the strike were not observed.
Another four Corsairs of NZ-15 followed over the target at 1650 with three half tonners and a pair of 250-pounders. Low cloud interferred with the bombing; but all bombs fell in the area with the exception of one which may have overshot the target.
Ten minutes later the strike was completed by eight NZ-18 Corsairs carrying eight 250-pound general purpose bombs and a pair of 100-pound smokes. Four strafing runs were carried out. Results of the strike were not seen. The area covered ran for about 600 yards along the top of a ridge.

For the Record:

4 F4Us NZ-22 UPPER SILIBAI 1645 dr. 4x650 D.C.
4 F4Us NZ-15 1650 dr. 3x1000 G.P.
                                  2x250 G.P.
8 F4Us NZ-18 1700 dr. 8x250 G.P.
                                  2x100 Smokes.

Maika Huts Plastered Again: AIB reported a large concentration of enemy camped around a clearing in the Maika area (345355). Five huts were reported to be visible. The 2nd. Corps requested a strike for 200 yards all around the clearing.
At 0805 twelve NZ-22 Corsairs went in over Maika with four 250-pounders, four 650-pound depth charges and four half tonners. The target was indicated by the leaders bomb and the rest of the bombs fell in the area for fairly good coverage.
At 0810 eight more Corsairs of NZ-8 came in with a pair of half tonners, two 650-pound depth charges and four 250-pound general purpose bombs. Smoke coming from a wreck at Moisuru Bay (443312) was strafed with unobserved results.
This combined strike destroyed six and damaged five huts. Slit trenches and foxholes were uncovered. Two small camouflaged loaded trucks were damaged by near misses. There were many MT tracks observed leading toward the target area.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-22 MAIKA 0805 dr. 4x250 G.P.
                                              4x650 D.C.
                                              4x1000 G.P.
8 F4Us NZ-23 0810 dr. 2x1000 G.P.
                                  2x650 D.C.
                                  4x250 G.P.

Fire Started at West Aku: The third Australian Division requested bombing and strafing of an area 400 yards along the Buin Road and 50 yards on either side in the vicinity of Aku. Commando patrols have been unable to reach Buin Road between the target area and the Oamai River. They reported a field peice (of unknown calibre) firing from approximately 173324. Track activity, fresh cut coconut palms, and three dugouts were noted in the area by TAC/R aircraft.
At 0830 twelve NZ-15 Corsairs carried three 650-pound depth charges and eighteen 250-pounders. All bombs fell in the west part of the target area for good coverage. 32 strafing runs were made over the entire area. A fire with blueish smoke climbing from 40 to 50 was started (173324). The fire was still burning when the aircraft left the area. It was noted that guns sighted (127338) on the 2nd of July have been removed.
At 0835 eleven NZ-18 Corsairs followed over the same target. They carried four half ton bombs, four 650-pound depth charges, three 250-pounders and a pair of smokes. This flight smoked the target for NZ-15 and then put all bombs in the east portion of the target area. Aside from the fire started (mentioned above), no results were observed.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-15 WEST AKU 0830 dr. 3x650 D.C.
                                                  18x250 G.P.
11 F4Us NZ-18 0835 dr. 4x1000 G.P.
                                   4x650 D.C.
                                   3x250 G.P.
                                  2x100 Smokes.

Mivo Softening Continues: The six day softening up program for the Mivo River was continued on an area 200 yards along the Buin Road and 50 yards either side of the road from 123341 to 125341. A POW confirmed that defenses are being constructed to cover the approaches to Mivo Ford.
At 1100 twelve NZ-18 Corsairs went in over the target with four 1000-pounders, four 650-pound depth charges, and four 250-pounders. Artillery smoke was accurate. All bombs fell in the target area along both sides of the road. Coverage was good. Twenty-four strafing runs were also made. The area was observed to be well cleared by this and previous strikes.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-18 MIVO RIVER 1100 dr. 4x1000 G.P.
                                                      4x650 D.C.
                                                      4x250 G.P.

Twenty Corsairs Hit Luirau: On 2 July TAC/R reported eight canvas-covered objects approximately 14x7 feet placed end to end in the Luirau area; four pits about 10x7 feet are situated between the covered objects; and there are six new huts on the south bank of the river. The entire area, approximately 3 miles north northwest of Muguai, 348427, shows signs of considerable recent activity.
Twelve NZ-15 Corsairs carrying three 1000 pounders and eight NZ-23 Corsairs carrying two 1000-pounders, two 650-pound depth charges, and four 250-pounders combined to strike the area. TAC/R smoked the area and directed the bombing. All bombs were dropped on the target area.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-15 LUIRAU dr. 3x1000 G.P.
                                      18x250 G.P.
8 F4Us NZ-23 dr. 2x1000 G.P.
                         2x650 D.C.
                        4x250 G.P.

Wearne's Hill Hit Again: 30 or 40 Nips are still holding out, dug in in the Wearne's Hill area. The seventh Australian BN has requested a strike on the area (695174 to 695176) to clear the jungle, expose the defenses, and soften the position up sufficiently so that they can occupy it.
At 1100 ten NZ-22 Corsairs carried four half tonners, four 650-pound depth charges and four 250-pounders over the area. A cloud build up made accurate bombing difficult, and the strike was considered to be unsuccessful. One 650-pound depth charge was jettisoned at sea due to electrical trouble. Two bombs overshot the target; the remainder were scattered about the area. 24 strafing runs were carried out with unobserved results. Contact with the ground station was good and artillery smoke was accurate; but it lost effectiveness by drifting rapidly toward the Australian troops.

For the Record:

10 F4Us NZ-22 WEARNE'S HILL 1100 dr. 4x1000 G.P.
                                                           4x650 D.C.
                                                           4x250 G.P.

Able Charlies Strafe Lemankoa: A pair of NZ-23 Corsairs on 0700 Able Charlie Search strafed fire smoke on the northwest coast of Buka near Lemankoa. A tin shelter on piles at Kessa Plantation (NW Buka Coast) was also strafed with unobserved results. Another pair of NZ-23 Corsairs on 1030 Able Charlie strafed bush smoke near Lemankoa with unobserved results.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ-23 ABLE CHARLIE SEARCH 0700 dr. No bombs.
2 F4Us NZ-23 1030 dr. No bombs.

NEW BRITAIN
(40 Sorties-31 Tons)

Ventura Practice Bombs Duke of York: One Ventura of NZ-2 carried out a practice bombing of Makada Jetty, Duke of York group, from 0815 to 0915. Six 500-pounders were dropped. A large explosion was caused and the jetty appeared as a black spot in the water. No Flak encountered.

For the Record:

1 PV-1 NZ-2 MAKADA 0815 dr. 6x500 G.P.

Jacquinot Corsairs Fly Negative Rabaul Patrols: From 0645 to 1645 five pair Jacquinot Corsairs guarded the Gazelle Peninsula for nil sightings, nil bombs dropped.

For the Record:

10 F4Us NZ-20 RABAUL PATROL 0645-1645 dr. No bombs.

NEW IRELAND
(8 Sorties-4 Tons)

New Ireland Patrols Report Borpop Guns: On Monday a pair of NZ-25 Corsairs swept the entire periphery of New Ireland from 1520 to 1845. A quartet of 500-pounders and strafing harassed coastal Nips and huts at Kapsu. Results unobserved.
From 1705 to 1820 on the same day, another pair of NZ-25 Corsairs dropped four quarter tonners on a personnel area (185098) while on Kavieng patrol. Results were not seen. Heavy clouds shortened the patrol. On Tuesday a pair of NZ-25 Corsairs patrolled Kavieng from 0700 to 0900, diving four 500-pounders on huts at Kapsu and Ululnono. One bomb fell in the water; the remainder were on the target for unobserved results.
Another pair of NZ-25 Corsairs swept New Ireland as far as Borpop from 0705 to 1100 on Tuesday. Four quarter tonners were dropped on the Kimidan, Cape Lemeris, and Bulu areas. Seven huts were destroyed. Gun positions were reported in the Borpop area at 123144.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ-25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 2 July 1520-1845 dr. 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ-25 KAVIENG PATROL 2 July 1705-1820 dr. 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ-25 KAVIENG PATROL 3 July 0700-0900 dr. 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ-25 MORNING SWEEP 3 July 0700-1100 dr. 4x500 G.P.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 05 July 1945.

BOUGAINVILLE-BUKA
(54 Sorties-19 Tons)

Fourth Successive Mivo Softener: The 3rd Australian Division requested softening up strikes on Nips defending the Mivo area. The target for the strike was a strip of 200 yards along the Buin Road extending 50 yards on either side of the road (125339-127341). This area was struck for the fourth successive day in a six day softening up program. The strike was not coordinated with ground troop movement. At 0820 twelve NZ-23 Corsairs carried four half tonners, three 650-pound depth charges and five 250-pounders over the position. All bombs fell on the target for good coverage. Twenty strafing runs were carried out. Results of the strike were unobserved. One aircraft (piloted by Flying Sergeant H.H. Donaldson) smoked at the root of the wing as it left the area. It was ditched and sank at sea about 2 3/4 miles southeast of Mamagata (000293). The pilot was not seen to escape.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-23 EAST MIVO FORD 0820 dr. 4x1000 G.P.
                                                              3x650 D.C.
                                                              5x250 G.P.

Siar Nips Hit: The 23rd Australian Brigade, operating in the Ruri Bay area, has been troubled by enemy infiltration parties on their right flanks. These infiltration units are believed to be coming from a base in the Siar Plantation area. A suspected troop concentration area 200x100 yards wide was defined as a target (328722-328724) and a strike was requested.
At 0830 twelve NZ-15 Corsairs carried a trio of half ton stick bombs and eighteen 250-pounders over the area. A pair of 250-pounders overshot 300 yards to the north; one 250-pounder fell 200 yards to the northwest and one 250-pounder fell fifty yards to the south. The remainder fell on the target area, which was well covered except for the northwest corner. Thirty-six strafing runs were carried out. Results of the strike were unobserved.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ-15 SIAR 0830 dr. 3x1000 G.P.
                                          18x250 G.P.

100 Kikibatsiago Nips Plastered: AIB reported that about 100 Japs were occupying an unknown number of huts at Kikibatsiago (2 miles northwest of Muguai-341405). The Second Australian Corps requested a strike on the position, taking in an area defined by a fifty yard radius around the reference point.
Eight NZ-22 and 12 NZ-18 Corsairs struck the target in a combined strike from 0755 to 0757. All twenty aircraft carried a total load of ten 250-pounders, seven 650-pound depth charges, and five half tonners. The majority of the bombs fell on the target area for good coverage. In addition to the bombing, 24 strafing runs were made.
The combined strike destroyed two huts and completely cleared the target area.
Upon completion of the strike two NZ-22 Corsairs made a reconnaissance flight over the Muguai and Maika areas.
Many vehicle tracks were noted 1 1/2 miles southeast Kikibatsiago (345385), where a POW had reported the presence of a MT park.
A large number of camouflaged huts were noted about a mile southeast of Muguai (357378). A pair of 250-pounders were dropped there destroying two huts. Many more camouflaged huts were noted somewhat closer and more nearly due south of Muguai (357356). A grey staff car was strafed and smoked in this same area.
MT tracks camouflaged with banana leaves were noted leading to a garden about 3/4 mile southeast of Muguai (363362). Eight or ten more camouflaged huts were noted nearby (363362-364359). Quantities of oil in rain puddles were seen in this area.
In the same locality (just southeast Muguai) Nips in foxholes were strafed. A number of them tried to evacuate and run for cover during strafing. At least ten were left lying on the ground.
Two possible MG positions were noted in a garden 1 1/2 miles northwest of Luagoa. They consisted of circular foxholes covered with net.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ-22 KIKIBATSIAGO 0756 dr. 6x250 G.P.
                                                        3x650 D.C.
                                                        1x1000 G.P.
12 F4Us NZ-18 KIKIBATSIAGO 0756 dr. 4x1000 G.P.
                                                          4x650 D.C.
                                                          4x250 G.P.

Able Charlies and Ditched Plane Searches Negative: At 0700 two NZ-22 Corsairs took off on Able Charlie Search. One hut strafed at Hanahan, Buka Island (081115) with unobserved results. The search was cut short; the aircraft returned to base due to smoke in the cockpit of one plane.
Two NZ-22 Corsairs took off on Able Charlie search at 1000. The search returned to base early due to fumes in the cockpit of one plane.
Two NZ-22 Corsairs scrambled at 0850 to cover the NZ-23 aircraft that ditched southeast of Mamagata. This pair also returned to base (at 0905) due to fumes in the cockpit of one aircraft.
Another pair of NZ-22 Corsairs were scrambled at 0915 to cover the position of the ditched aircraft until they were recalled at 1020. No sighting of either aircraft or pilot was obtained.

For the Record:

8 F4Us NZ-22 SEARCH AND PATROL 0700-1020 dr. No bombs.

Moisuru Bay Huts Damaged and Destroyed: At 1350 a pair of NZ 18 Corsairs took of on a reconnaissance mission over the Tabago area in search of the Headquarters of the Jap Fourth South Seas (Garrison unit, which has been reported about 1 1/2 miles Northwest of Kikibatsiago (315407)). The planes carried one half tonner and three 250 pound general purpose bombs.
Groups of huts were seen Southeast of Tabago at 322417-325419 and 326417-328413; but there were no signs of activity in the vicinity.
Scattered huts with well worn ground around them were noted in the vicinity of Maika, Moisuru Bay (476303-476310).
A large and a small hut were bombed between Kahihi strip and Maiki (435316). The large one was damaged; the small one was destroyed.
Six strafing runs were carried out with unobserved results on oil drums on a wreck in Moisuru Bay (443312).

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 18 TABAGO RECCO dr 1x1000 G.P.
                                                 3x250 G.P.

NEW BRITAIN
(37 Sorties-40 Tons)

Rabaul Patrols from Jacquinot Negative: From 0645 to 1110 and 1315 to 1645 five pair Jacquinot Corsairs patrolled the Gazelle Peninsula with negative results.

For the Record:

10 F4Us NZ Jacquinot RABAUL PATROL 0645-1645 dr No bombs.

NEW IRELAND
(12 Sorties-7 Tons)

Corsair Patrols Smash Tambakr Kapsu Huts: On Tuesday from 1710 to 1900 a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs patrolled Kavieng. Four quarter ton bombs in addition to strafing accounted for four huts in the Kapsu-Yatu area. Nausen Island (about 3 miles due South Kavieng) was strafed with unobserved results.
Another pair NZ 25 Corsairs swept New Ireland on Tuesday from 1535 to 1900. Four quarter tonners were put on SAE Bridge (Nabuto Bay area). Huts and canoes at Waum were strafed with unobserved results. The entire periphery of the island was swept. On Wednesday a pair of NZ 25 Corsairs swept from 0705 to 1050. Three 500 pounders were dropped in an effort to block the road along the cliff at Dallum. Results negative. One destroyed two huts at Tambakar. Huts along the route to and from Cape St. George were strafed with unobserved results.
Another pair of NZ 25 Corsairs patrolled Kavieng from 0710 to 0925. Four 500 pounders were off-loaded, 3 of them fell in a personnel area (at 158077), one bomb missed an Ack Ack position (at 098113). Huts at Globig, Baudissen and Ululnono were strafed with unobserved results.

For the Record:

2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 3 July 1700-1900 dr 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 AFTERNOON SWEEP 3 July 1535-1900 dr 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 MORNING SWEEP 4 July 0705-1050 dr 4x500 G.P.
2 F4Us NZ 25 KAVIENG PATROL 4 July 0710-0925 dr 4x500 G.P.