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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 10, 2021 10:48:41 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 12 August 1944.
N. New Ireland: Eighteen Emirau Corsairs bombed several N. New Ireland targets with unreported results.
For the Record:
18 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr 13x1000
TARGET: TOBERA SUPPLIES
Main target yesterday was Tobera supply area No. 36, which was hit by more then 60 planes. After-strike photos showed nine buildings destroyed.
Green Island SBDs opened the attack, with some aiming at a nearly auto position, where they saw no guns. One pilot reported orange smoke to 2000 ft. in the SE part of the target. Canvas covered supply piles were noted in part of the target area. Three bombs which hung over the target were later direct hits on huts at Cape Tambakar. There was no AA.
Ten F4Us reported six bombs on the target, with unobserved results. Meagre inaccurate MG fire came from SW of the target and meagre inaccurate auto from N of Ralabang.
Coming next, 20 Emirau F4Us bombed with unobserved results and 15 SBDs were also unable to observe damage to specific targets. Moderate accurate MG fire from Vunapope holed one F4U.
For the Record:
18 SBDs Green 0856 load 1x500 dr. 17x500 fr. 1200/1500'
2x250 34x250
10 F4Us VMF 223 0901 " 1x1000 " 10x1000
0910
20 F4Us Emirau 0920 " 1x1000 " 20x1000 1 dam.
15 SBDs VMSB 243 0937 " 1x500 " 14x500 fr. 2500'
1x250 28x250
TARGET: RATAVAL
A notable fire rewarded the efforts of 22 F4Us over Rataval. The first 10-plane strike started three fires in the target - a small supply area. Three bombs overshot and four others from planes which went past the target scored three direct hits on five large huts near the Keravat gardens, leaving them blanketed with white smoke. There was no AA.
After putting eight of their bombs into the target area the second strike left a large fire covering about half the area with flames showing through brown smoke which rose from 2/3000 ft. A bomb which hung up later started a small fire among huts at Kubagada Pt. Again there was no AA.
Incomplete photos showed three fires burning W of the target. There were also (in photos taken at 1015) three large and several small fires burning at Wungaramut Pltn., although those would not appear to have been caused by the strikes.
For the Record:
10 F4Us NZ 21 1010 load 1x500 mag cl dr 10x500 fr 3000'.
12 F4Us NZ 19 1025 " " " " " 12x500 " 4000'.
OVER BOUGAINVILLE
Monoitu Mission: A reported troop concentration area, huts and gardens were hit by 7 PVs which destroyed five huts and put a dozen craters in the gardens. Other results, including the effect of 14,000 rounds of strafing, were unobserved. There was no AA.
For the Record:
7 PVs NZ 9 0800 load 6x250 dr 39x250 fr 250'.
0845
Muguai Mission: Two strikes of F4Us, 18 in all, hit this target. The first six left one column of dark smoke. The remaining dozen put all their bombs in the area, causing much debris and black smoke which made detailed observation impossible.
For the Records
6 F4Us NZ 19 1435 load 1x500 mag cl dr 6x500 fr 1000'.
12 " " 21 1505 " 1x500 " " " 12x500 " 2000' .
Arawa Pltn. Area: A wing TBF destroyed three large huts and one smaller one in the Arawa Plantation area. A great deal of white paper flew into the air from one of the huts.
For the Record:
1 TBF Wing 1410 load 6x250 dr 5x250.
1542 6x100 5x100
Jaba - Kieta: Two 2-plane patrols were flown, apart from the Able and Charlie searches. Various targets were strafed, including a 30 ft freshly camouflaged barge in a small inlet above East Pt. Meagre inaccurate MG came from Kahili. A single plane on the dawn patrol strafed huts with unobserved results.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 11
Squarepeg searches were negative. Sector William had full distance and cover. Sector Xray had full distance and 95% cover. Weather was excellent.
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sectors Sugar Uncle and Victor had full distance and cover. Sector Tare had 100% track and 95% cover. All sectors report ceiling and visibility unlimited with zero to 3 tenths clouds. There was a front building up to 50 miles North of Emirau.
Local Able and Charlie searches and the shipping count were negative.
The Torokina-Rabaul sweep circled a downed pilot WNW of Rabaul until picked up by Dumbo
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 10, 2021 11:11:29 GMT 12
Day Ending 13 August 1944.
Kavieng Patrols: Throughout the day 18 F4Us dropped 7 1/2 tons of bombs and strafed assigned targets. A direct hit was scored on Panemansu Pt bridge.
For the Record:
18 F4U Emirau load 1x1000 dr 15x1000.
TARGET: RATAVAL.
Two F4U strikes hit Rataval target 126. The first 12 planes reported all bombs on the target, from which three columns of white smoke rose to 400 ft. The second strike saw only several small and short-lived fires after its bombing. Before their bombing they saw a large glare in the centre of the target area. Moderate inaccurate AA, mostly light, came from known positions on the ridges E and SE of Rataval.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 21 1055 load 1x500 mag cl dr 12x500 fr 3000'.
10 F4Us NZ 19 1115 " 1x500 " " dr 10x500 fr 2500'.
NEW IRELAND.
Kalili Pltn - and other Targets: Of 20 Emirau SBDs which set out for this target, only four penetrated a front. These destroyed several buildings and native type houses, also oil drums on the pier. Hitting targets of opportunity the other planes reported hits on bridges at Kanam and Belik Pltn; damage to bridges at Laminnis and Katendam Pltn; damage to huts at Kanam Pltn and buildings at Kimidan Pltn. Intense inaccurate MG fire came from Kamiraba Pltn, moderate from Bulu Pltn and some from Kalili which put two bullet holes in one plane. One plane received moderate bomb blast damage.
Nineteen F4Us also went to Kalili where they reported good coverage with bomb smoke the only observed result. One plane fired a building and nine native huts at Danfu and another dropped at Borpop without observed result.
For the Record:
20 SBDs VMSB 243 load 1x500 dr 20x500 1 Dam.
2x250 40x250
19 F4Us Emirau 1000 " 1x500 mag cl 19x500
1020
Pinikindu Pt.: Attacking this area, 13 Emirau F4Us reported 11 hits along the road, destroying two bridges. The other two bombs destroyed a group of buildings and started three fires. Intense accurate light AA shot down one plane, the pilot being rescued uninjured by Dumbo.
For the Record:
13 F4Us Emirau 0905 load 1x1000 dr 13x1000 1 lost.
Kavieng Barges: In a special strafing attack on Kavieng barges at 0700 four F4Us found only one near Government Wharf. It was well covered by the fire but did not burn. MG fire from Nusa Island and Kavieng Town did no damage.
BOUGAINVILLE
Kaino: Attacking a reported bivouac area 8 PVs report complete coverage. Nine huts were soon to be destroyed.
For the Record:
8 PVs NZ 9 0700 load 6x250 dr 45x250 fr 200'.
Amio - Manetai: Attacking Amio and Taiai villages 8 F4Us put five bombs among huts in the former plane, lifting one hut 20 ft into the air before it disintegrated. There was much dust, smoke and debris. Two more bombs landed among Taiai huts. A second strike of 12 F4Us found Amio closed in so bombed Manetai, destroying two huts and damaging two others.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 21 1425 load 1x500 dr 7x500 fr 100'.
8 F4Us NZ 19 1500 " 1x500 " 8x500 fr 2000'.
Ebery's Lease: Two F4Us, unable to start in time for the Rataval strike, bombed about 23 huts 1 to 1 1/2 miles NE of Ebery's Lease. One fire among three or four huts lasted half an hour. There was no AA.
2 F4Us NZ 19 load 1x500 mag cl dr 2x500 fr 3000'.
Jaba R - Kieta: Three two-plane sweeps were flown. The first silenced AA firing from Numa Numa and Kieta, causing small explosions at the former place, where the fire was light, moderate and inaccurate. The second sweep strafed with unobserved results two two-story tower-like buildings two miles SE of Kara r/w. One plane was damaged when a seagull dived through the propellor. (It is presumed the seagull was also damaged). The third sweep fired two huts near Amapa.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 12:
Squarepeg searches were negative with full distance and cover. Weather was good and visibility 20 miles with cloud bases at 2000 feet.
Beefsteak searches all sectors full distance and cover with negative results. There was a slight front building up in Sector Uncle at 02 degrees North. Other sectors were calm.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 11, 2021 10:54:43 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 14 August
Kavieng Patrols: Sixteen F4Us over N New Ireland destroyed a large house at Panemane and fired two loaded trucks nearby by strafing. Hits were scored on huts at Amba Pt. and at another location.
For the Record:
16 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr. 15x1000
Put Put-Keravat: Both 4-plane sweeps were weathered out. The morning one strafed buildings in the Kieta area, the afternoon one came straight home.
target: rataval.
Twenty-three Torokina F4Us returned again to Rataval (126). Mag. clusters dropped by the first strike left the target sending black smoke to 1000 ft. One plane was holed twice by probable small arms fire from Watom Island.
The second strike covered part of target 126 where a small fire was reported, and put other bombs into target 125, where three fires were left burning. Two fires started by the previous strike were seen.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 21 1100 load 1x500 mag. cl. dr. 12x500 fr. 5000' 1 dam.
11 F4Us NZ 19 1105 " 1x500 " " " 11x500 " 3000'
NEW IRELAND
Belik to Porpor: Seeking targets of opportunity in ? area 10 Green Island SBDs landed bombs among several hut concentrations with unreported results. In the vicinity of Ramut Bay 4-5 MG positions put up intense inaccurate fire and MG or 20 MM fire from the Ujam River area holed one plane, killing the gunner.
For the Record:
19 SBDs Green 0930 load 1x500 dr. 17x500 fr. 1500' 1 dam.
2x250 33x250.
Lemakot Pltn: This target, on Fangelawa Bay, was the target of 16 Emirau F4Us, which also strafed the area. No results were seen. No AA was observed but one plane was holed by MG fire.
For the Record:
16 F4Us Emirau 0850 load 1x1000 dr. 15x1000 fr. 3000' 1 dam.
BOUGAINVILLE
Mosigetta: A reported Jap headquarters and bivouac area was attacked by seven PVs, which reported complete coverage. Three huts were destroyed but other results were obscurred by the jungle. Strafing also sent 8000 rounds into the area.
For the Record:
7 PVs NZ 9 0645 load 6x250 dr. 40x250 fr. 150'
Searches for August 13.
Squarepeg searches were negative traveling 475 mile for 85% cover. There were frontal conditions throughout the area.
Beefsteak searches in sector SUGAR traveled full distance with 90% cover encountering a front extending from 03 to 05 degrees north. Sector TARE with 80% track and 60% cover sighted at 0800 at 00-30 north 151-30 east a bluish gray partially burned ships life raft. 15 miles northwest of this sighting was an 8x10 foot metal Navy type construction float with 15 foot spar. There was no sign of life. A heavy southeast northwest front was moving southwest at 03 degrees north. Sector UNCLE had 85% track and 75% cover with a front from 02 to 04 degrees north. Sector VICTOR had full track and 75% cover with heavy rain squalls.
Local searches were negative.
Motupena Pt.-Kieta: Two two-plane patrols strafed huts in several locations with unobserved results. A number of probable campfires were seen W of Kara and 3-4 at Kahili and there was a large fire just W of Metong Pt. (where the morning patrol had strafed) and a hut was seen on fire at Kikimogu.
The four F4Us on the dawn patrol strafed 4 campfires at Mamagata mission with unobserved results.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 11, 2021 10:58:19 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 15 August 1944.
North New Ireland Patrols: Fourteen F4Us on patrols from Emirau scored direct hits on a large building at Kimedan and a bridge at Medina. A truck was fired at Fangelawa by strafing. Meagre AA from Medina holed one plane.
For the Record:
14 F4Us Emirau load ----- dr. 5 3/4 tons 1 dam.
Put Put-Keravat: A morning flight of 4 F4Us was unable to reach the Put Put-Keravat area because of weather. However in the afternoon 3 of 4 other F4Us strafed huts and buildings in the area with unobserved results. One plane returned to base before reaching the target area when it developed hydraulic trouble. A large fire pushing white smoke to 1000 feet was observed just north of Vunakanau and 6 other fires were seen between Vunakanau, Malabunga and Mt. Varzin.
TARGET: WAITAVALO PLTN., HENRY REID BAY, NEW BRITAIN
Although the dawn PBJ strike was weathered out of Waitavalo Pltn. 20 F4Us kept the area under strafing attack to 1030. The first flight of 4 planes reported no visible results but the next flight of 8 planes fired a hut 50' x 20' near the mouth of the Henry Reid River. They also destroyed a 60-foot single span bridge across a small inlet at the mouth of the same river. The last flight of 8 planes made repeated passes at the 2 assigned targets and at a group of 16 buildings below the Mevelo River among which one large and 2 small fires were observed when the planes reached the area.
Meagre M/G fire came from north of Tol Pltn. A wrecked possible Zeke or Hamp was sighted on the beach at Tol.
Four other F4Us carrying quarter tonners next bombed and strafed the area with unobserved results. However they observed one burned-out hut and 2 small huts still smoking near the mouth of the river.
For the Record:
24 F4Us NZ 21 load 1x500 4-5 sec. dr. 4x500 fr. 200
NZ 19
VMO 251
TARGET: KANAKDRAN PLTN. TO CAPE TURNER, NEW BRITAIN
In a dawn attack 6 PVs planted their 250 pounders in the reported Jap concentration at Kanakdran Plantation on Wide Bay, New Britain and strafed the area with 12,000 rounds but the jungle prevented observation of results. Later 8 F4Us put their quarter tonners in the assigned target area then in strafing attacks fired 2 huts and started 3 grass fires. Near the target area 3-4 sunken barges were sighted and the jetty is unserviceable. No A/A was reported.
For the Record:
6 PVs NZ 9 0720 load 6x250 4-5 sec. dr. 34x250
0750
8 F4Us NZ 19 1005 " 1x500 inst. dr. 8x500 fr. 2000-2500
1110
NEW IRELAND
Katendan-Kimidan Pltns: Eighteen of 20 Emirau F4Us bombed targets between Katendan and Kimidan Pltns. Two other Corsairs returned early with engine trouble one jettisoning its bomb. Reported results were: 2 direct hits on buildings in Kimidan Village, a damaging hit near the bridge in the dame area, and a direct hit on a building described as barracks or quarters near Kimidan. The F4Us also strafed during the attack. Three inaccurate bursts of 40mm fire came from Pinikindu Pt. and meagre inaccurate light auto fire from Laminnis Pltn.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Emirau 0945 load 1x1000 inst. dr 18x1000 fr 2000/3000'
Targets of Opportunity: Green SBDs, due to go to Kalili, were weathered out so bombed targets of opportunity. They fired a group of houses on the coast three miles N of Ulaputur Pltn, the resultant smoke climbing to 500 ft. Damage was also caused to buildings at Kokolu and Komalu Pltn. Five or six large tents were noted under trees at Ulapulur. Moderate inaccurate MG fire came from a cove at Kokola.
For the Record:
17 SBDs Green 0945 load 1x500 dr 17x500 fr 1000'
2x250 34x250
BOUGAINVILLE
Motupena Pt. - Kieta: Three 2-plane F4U patrols covered this area during the day. The first patrol strafed huts at Motupena, Kara, Piano Mission and Kekere Plantation with unobserved results. Many small fires were sighted north and east of Mt Taroka. The second patrol after sighting a truck in a garden just south of Monoitu Mission was unable to locate it on returning to strafe. The third strafed several fires in the Koromira and Ebery's Lease areas.
Tugiogu and Porepuru: At 1435L 8 F4Us dropped 8 quarter tonners on huts at Tugiogu, in the interior of south central Bougainville, securing 2 direct hits. Both sides of the road were strafed with unobserved results.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 21 load 1x500 inst. dr 8x500 fr 2500'.
Bakatang: Several groups of 7-10 huts at Bakatang near Kieta were the target of 4 F4Us prevented fron striking the Kaimo Bivouac area at 1445. Four quarter tonners were dropped but results were completely obscured by clouds.
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 19 1445 load 1x500 inst. dr 4x500 fr 4-5000.
Ebery's Lease: Three F4Us dropped their quarter tonners on Ebery's Lease with unobserved results. A fourth Corsair turned back before reaching the target when it was discovered that the wing tanks would not function and bombed an unspecified local target. Moderate inaccurate 40mm fire bursting between 4000-5000 feet was noted from a position between Ebery's Lease and Kahili.
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 19 1240 load 1x500 45 sec. dr. 4x500 fr 3000'
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 14
Squarepeg searches were negative traveling 485 miles for 94% cover. Squalls and frontal conditions encountered throughout the area.
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sector Sugar had 90% track and 80% cover with a heavy front at 05 degrees North and a weak front in the vicinity of the equator. Sector Tare had 75% track and 60% cover with a heavy front at 03 degrees north moving north. Sector Uncle had 85% track and 80% cover with a front building up north of 05 degrees north. Sector Victor had 95% track and cover encountering a front extending, 01 degrees south to 04-40 north.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 11, 2021 11:14:37 GMT 12
Day Ending 16 August 1944.
RABAUL - KAVIENG - BOUGAINVILLE BLOCKADE
Kavieng Patrols: With six tons of bombs Kavieng F4U patrols hit two buildings at each of Katsu and Lossuk Pltns. There was some AA fire from the latter place.
Put Put - Keravat: Three F4Us on the morning strafing sweep slightly smoked a number of huts. They reported a dust cloud on the NE end of Tobera strip. The afternoon 4-plane sweep strafed huts with unobserved results.
TARGET: VUNAKANAU GUNS
AA targets surrounding Vunakanau also revetments round the field, were blitzed by 83 planes yesterday.
Ten Torokina F4Us reported a direct hit on an auto position S. of the SE end of the strip, with three bombs close to two other positions. The fall of the other bombs was not observed. There was inaccurate meagre heavy AA from Vunakanau and inaccurate meagre MG from W. of Raluana Pt. Three buildings with probable hospital markings were seen between Taliligap and Kuradui Pltn.
Another 10 Torokina F4Us reported no direct hits on guns from the bomb bursts observed but claimed two hits on a revetment S. of the SE end of the strip. Some AA fire was seen but not from the guns attacked.
Fifteen Piva F4Us reported good coverage but were unable to make detailed observation except for two hits in the SE revetments. From the general target area five autos and five MGs sent up meagre and inaccurate fire.
Emirau SBDs reported three damaging hits on heavy positions NW of the strip. No fewer than 30 Emirau F4Us provided the climax for the attack. They reported a direct hit and three near misses on 6 guns W of the strip, with most of the remainder of the bombs in the assigned area.
Intense light and medium inaccurate to accurate AA continued throughout the approach and holed one F4U. Two new heavy guns were reported 2200 yds N of the NW end of the strip and two new autos in the pltn 2000 yds NE of the same end of the strip. Photos after the strikes revealed new craters round two gun positions but no apparent damage to guns.
For the Record:
10 F4Us NZ 19 0900 load 1x1000 dr 10x1000 fr 2000'
10 F4Us NZ 21 0900 load 1x1000 dr 10x1000 fr 4000'
15 F4Us VMO 251 0900 load 1x1000 dr 14x1000 fr 2000-3500'
VMF 223 0905
18 SBDs VMSB 243 0900 load 1x1000 dr 17x1000
30 F4Us Emirau 0920 load 1x2000 dr 30x1000 fr 2000-2500' 1 Dam.
NEW IRELAND:
Kalili: Excellent coverage of this target was reported by 17 Green Island SBDs. Two 100' buildings were destroyed and two fires smoking to 300 ft were started in a group of 26 buildings. A direct hit was scored on another group of buildings. Eight F4Us covered the SBDs and then bombed the same target with unobserved results. They confirmed the good results of the SBDs bombing. There was no AA.
For the Record:
17 SBDs Green 1045 load 1x500 dr 17x500 fr 1500-2000'
2x250 34x250
8 F4Us VMF 218 1045 load 1x500 dr 7x500
1105
Monoitu Mission: Keeping up the pressure on the Nips in this area 4 F4Us bombed a reported bivouac area with unobserved results. Four others, finding the target clouded out, bombed an area near Tonu where five Japs were seen. Two bombs cratered the road and another sent up brown smoke from nearby.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 19 1330 load 1x500 dr 8x500
Amio and Arawa: Amio Village and the Arawa Pltn area were targets for 12 F4Us weathered out from South Bougainville. Results were not observed because of low cloud.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 21 1245 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000 fr 200'
Tonuru Mission: One PV bombed this area, with resutls hidden by the jungle, and strafed with 2000 rounds.
For the Record:
1 PV NZ 9 0830 load 6x250 dr 6x250.
0905
Motupena - Kieta: Three two-plane F4U patrols operated. One strafed huts near Kieta strip and had a plane holed by moderate accurate MG fire from Kangu Hill. The second, after causing a grass fire on Kieta Peninsula by strafing, went on to pepper huts in the vicinity of Kara and Piano Mission with unobserved results. The final one strafed fires and hnts at Kieta and huts at Kara.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 15
Squarepeg searches were negative with full distance and cover. Visibility was 25 miles, cloud bases 1200 feet with occasional showers.
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sector Sugar had 90% track and cover with a moderate east west frontal area north of 05 degrees north. Sector Tare had 95% track and 90% cover sighting a yellow spherical floating mine at 00-47 north 150-40 east at 1430 Love. 200 rounds failed to explode the mine. Sectors Uncle and Victor both had full distance and cover with 1-3 tenths clouds.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 11, 2021 11:27:12 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 17 August 1944.
With bad weather prevailing, no strikes were conducted by ComAirNorSols planes yesterday. The only aircraft to operate were fighters patroling South Bougainville and North New Ireland.
BOUGAINVILLE PATROLS
Yesterday responsibility for the South Bougainville patrols passed to Torokina for the latter half of the month.
Four 2-plane patrols were flown. The first strafed an apparent bivouac fire at Mabiri Pltn. and at least three native-type huts under the trees on the W bank of the Monoitu R. They appeared occupied. The fire at Mabiri Pltn. another at Arigua Pltn. and 3-4 natives on the beach at Tiaraka were targets for the second sweep. Results were again unobserved.
The third sweep strafed huts at Monoitu Mission, Amio, Arawa, and Taiai with unobserved results and at Inus Pltn. smoked one hut. Campfires were seen in the trees at the base of one of five jetties on the E side of Tonolei Hbr. Gardens and huts at various points were strafed by the final sweep with unobserved results.
NEW IRELAND PATROLS
Although their strike was cancelled, Emirau was able to operate fighter patrols over Northern New Ireland, where seven pairs of F4Us worked. They demolished one end of a bridge S of Cape Pinikindu, scored three hits in the A/A area S of Kavieng strip, smoked a house at Roland Young Pltn, and another at Cape Bolegila.
For the Record:
14 F4Us Emirau dr. 5 tons.
Searches for August 16.
Squarepeg searches were negative. Sector William went full distance with full cover. Sector Xray went 480 miles for 90% cover. There was a heavy front at the 150 mile line to a depth of 40 miles with squalls the rest of the distance.
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sector SUGAR went full distance for 90% cover with 9 tenths clouds and a North-South frontal area from 05 to 06 degrees north. Sector TARE had 100% track and 95% cover with 8 tenths clouds, an extensive front at 05 degrees north and a moderate front from 01 to 13 degrees North. Sector UNCLE had 100% track 85% cover, average flying conditions with a heavy East-West front 60 miles North of Emirau. Sector VICTOR had 100% track 70% cover with a frontal area north to 01 degree north and a light front at 05 degrees north.
Local searches negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 12, 2021 10:44:09 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 18 August 1944.
Kavieng Patrols: One large fire was started and a number of native huts destroyed by nine 2-plane patrols which bombed the north New Ireland area. Light inaccurate AA came from Lakurafange and Katu Pltns and S. of Panapai strip.
For the Record:
18 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr 16x1000
Duke of York - Cape Lambert: Four Torokina F4Us on this sweep got among the Nip trucks to good effect. Four trucks on a road in Tavilo Pltn, after being narrowly missed by bombs, were all flamed by strafing. Two other trucks on a road N. of the E. end of Karavat strip were strafed but did not burn. Several other trucks were not attacked.
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 19 1230 load 1x500 dr 4x500.
1550
BOUGAINVILLE
Mibo - Mobiai Bivouac: A reported Nip bivouac area between these two rivers was under bombing and strafing attack for a considerable part of the morning by 2-plane sections of Torokina which dropped 500-pound bombs and made numerous strafing runs. No results were seen because of the jungle.
For the Record:
24 F4Us NZ 19 0935 load 1x500 dr 24x500.
1125
Monoitu Mission: Huts in this area provided the target for four F4Us. Two mag. clusters which fell W. of the target area fired two huts which burnt merrily and sent black smoke to 1000 ft. A half-ton bomb which also missed the main target huts sent up a large amount of debris. A second strike of 4 planes, however, was right on the target. Bombing destroyed two huts and the third was riddled by strafing.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 19 1400 load 1x500 dr 4x500 mag. cl.
1735 or 1x1000 1x500 3x1000
South Bougainville Patrols: One of five 2-plane patrols strafed gardens S. of Koromira Mission and on the N. bank of the Luluai. In both places persons were seen diving for cover. Another sweep (the earliest) caught 20 Nips on the beach at Kieta. They ran into some light scrub, which offered only poor protection, and there were thoroughly strafed. It is considered extremely likely that some were liquidated. The third sweep also caught a couple of Nips in the open at Motupena Pt and bowled then both over. Three huts were fired in the Koombaroona area. The last two were negative.
The dawn patrol saw a new-looking oil slick extending W. from the mouth of the Puriata R.
Two F4Us of VMF 212 strafed the area from Arawa Pltn inland, firing a hut on a hillside N of the Bovo River.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 17
Squarepeg searches were negative with full track and cover. The weather was generally good with intermittent squalls throughout.
Beefsteak searches had full distance and cover in sectors Sugar Tare and Uncle, with above average flying conditions and 2 to 4 tenths clouds. There was a heavy squall at 02-00 North 151-22 East. Sector Victor had 90% track and cover with a bad NW-SE front above 04 degrees North. At 1030 Love sector Uncle sighted a 40 foot dark brown steel barge manned by a single Nip in cast end Lukunor Lagoon on a course of 120 degrees SOA 2 knots. 500 rounds failed to sink it and the craft was left dead in the water. The Nip was believed left dead. The searches were otherwise negative.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 12, 2021 10:46:47 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 19, August. 1944.
Rabaul Patrols: Four of the scheduled five patrols were over Rabaul. The 15 half-ton bombs dropped included a direct hit on buildings at Wunawatung Pltn. and a damaging hit on buildings in E Rabaul. Trucks and huts were strafed with unobserved results.
For the Record:
16 F4Us Green 0715 load 1x1000 dr. 15x1000
1440 * For Kavieng patrols see below
TARGET: VUNAKANAU FLAK
This target was attacked yesterday by 77 F4Us and 15 Emirau SBDs with some attention also given to the underground storage area.
Piva F4Us, 35 strong, opened the attack. Twelve bombs from the first 17 planes (VMG 223) fell in the target area with generally unobserved results. The next 18 (VMO 251) succeded in putting 16 of their bombs in the area. A truck NE of Vunakanau was hit by strafing but did not burn.
VMF 223 planes received moderate to intense accurate heavy and inaccurate fire from the target area. VMO 251 planes report intense accurate heavy medium and light fire from the target area, Tobera and Rapopo. Many phosphorous-type bursts were seen over the target at 3000 ft. The pilot of one VMO 251 plane which was hit bailed out 15 miles NE of Praed Pt. and was rescued by Dumbo. He received a broken leg and internal injuries. Another plane was hit by both medium and light fire.
A dozen Torokina F4Us report putting all their bombs in the target area, with heavy cloud obscuring observation of results. Moderate and inaccurate fire came from 3 M/Gs and there was some heavy. About 20 white puffs resembling smoke shells were seen at about 200 ft. in a rough circle over the target area.
Last on the scene were the Emirau planes. They reported one confirmed and four reported damaging hits on AA positions and one reported damaging hit on the underground supplies.
Heavy and intense AA of barrage type at 6-8000' was received from the target area, also moderate accurate auto fire from there and S of Raluana Pt. A mortar barrage bursting 15 ft. above the trees was reported "between the strip and Ataliklikun Bay." One SBD crashed with its crew a mile N of Keravat. Three more SBDs and two F4Us were holed.
For the Record:
17 F4Us VMF 223 0845 load 1x1000 dr. 15x1000 fr. 2/3000'
18 F4Us VMO 251 0855 " 1x1000 " 17x1000 " 2/3000' 1 lost 1 dam.
12 F4Us NZ 21 0915 " 1x1000 " 12x1000 fr. 2000'
30 F4Us Emirau 0920 " 1x1000 " 30x1000 " 2/3000' 2 dam
15 SBDs VMSB 243 0920 " 1x1000 " 15x1000 " 1000-1500' 1 lost 3 dam.
TARGET: TAMBAKAR-KING BAY AREA
The above area was the target for 17 Green Island SBDs. They reported damaging buildings at Maton Pltn., and hitting others in the King Bay area. A few flashes of possible 20 MM fire were seen S of the Kait R. A 125 ft. beached boat, apparently in good condition, was seen at Tambakar. Buildings at Maton appeared in good repair.
For the Record:
17 SBDs Green 1025 load 1x500 dr. 17x500 from 1700'
1045 2x250 34x250
* Kavieng Patrols: Eight 2-plane F4U patrols with quarter tonners fired a house at Fangelawa, smoked another at Patlarant, damaged a bridge and burnt a house and three huts at Pinikindu Point.
BOUGAINVILLE SWEEPS
Four 2-plane South Bougainville sweeps were flown. The first smoked a bridge at Koromira Mission. The second probably killed one of two Nips hastening into the jungle at Moila Pt. The third contrived to convince a lot of Nips that beaches are unhealthy places for them. Four were bowled over at four different places and another was wounded. The fourth sweep had no notable results.
Searches for August 18.
Squarepeg searches were negative with full distance and cover. The weather was calm.
Beefsteak searches were negative with full distance and cover. All sectors reporting that ceiling and visibility was unlimited.
The Torokina-Rabaul sweep by a New Zealand PV observed DUMBO picking up a downed pilot in the water at 0915 at 152-15 East 04-15 South. Received a report from SBDs that an SBD was down in the vicinity of Keravat and went to the scene where they observed 1 burning plane 1 mile north of East end of Keravat strip, assumed to be the SBD. They circled the area but did not see the pilot.
Other local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 12, 2021 10:58:11 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 20 August 1944.
Kavieng Patrols: Nine 2-plane F4U patrols were over N. New Ireland. They knocked out two bridges destroyed two houses and fired a number of huts. A large fire smoking to 1000 ft was seen at Cape Sali.
For the Record:
18 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr 5 1/4 Tons.
or 1x500
NEW IRELAND
Kalili Pltn: This target suffered again at the hands of 17 Green Island SBDs. One plane scored direct hits on a building which smoked to 500 ft in protest and there were other damaging hits. There was no AA.
For the Record:
17 SBDs Green 1030 load 1x500 dr 17x500 fr 2000'.
1045 2x250 32x250
Lakurafange - Fangelawa: This stretch of coast was hit by 20 F4Us and 15 SBDs from Emirau with unobserved results. The area was also strafed. Intense and very accurate light AA fire came from Cape Sass with possibly some meagre MG fire from positions farther south. One F4U crashed between Cape Sass and Fangelawa and another, damaged by AA, crash-landed at Emirau. A third was holed.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr 20x1000 fr 2/3500' 1 lost 2 dam.
15 SBDs VMSB 243 " 1x1000 " 15x1000 fr 1500'
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 19
Beefsteak searches were negative, all sectors going full distance with full cover,
August 19 marks the beginning of a new search plan. The searches out of Squarepeg have been discontinued. Beefsteak searches continue with a slight re-adjustment in search sectors.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 12, 2021 11:23:28 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 21 August 1944.
N. New Ireland Patrols: Although they dropped their bombs with unobserved results 9 2-plane F4U patrols had fun and games with their strafing. Near Koka Pltn a small boat was sent to the bottom and a similar fate over took a bathing Nip. At another point a truck was exploded and the passengers chased across the countryside into the tall timber. At Fessoa Pltn two trucks, two smaller vehicles and huts were thoroughly shot up and a barge near Patlangat Pltn was holed but not fired. AA from the Fessoa area was heavy, meagre and inaccurate and from Medina light and medium fire were inaccurate. Over Kimidan Pltn, however, one plane had its hydraulic system put out of commission by a bullet but it was safety landed.
For the Record:
18 F4Us Emirau load 1x500 dr 18x500 1 Dam.
Rabaul Patrols: Weather prevented two of the scheduled five 4-plane patrols from getting through. The other planes destroyed two and badly damaged another 60x20' building, besides destroying a hut, at Wunabugbug Pltn. Several truck targets were found and one vehicle was fired in the Liliei area. Off Duke of York Island an outrigger canoe was sunk and the two Nip occupants killed and of four 40 ft barges on the NE coast of Watom. Island two were sunk and the other two left unserviceable. Meagre but accurate light and heavy flak came from the Vunakanau area, the former holing one plane.
For the Record:
12 F4Us Green load 1x1000 dr 10x1000 fr 1200/3000' 1 Dam.
or 1x500 2x500
NEW IRELAND
Kalili Pltn: Once again Green Island planes hit this target. Two planes planted their bombs on a large building in a concentration of eight, starting an intense fire which sent planes to 400' and smoke to 2000'. Damaging hits were seen on other buildings and fires which were started sent grey smoke to 1000'. A plantation house at the E end of Kalili Pltn was damaged and buildings at Dampit Pltn directly hit. There was no AA but bomb blast slightly damaged two planes.
For the Record:
16 SBDs Green 1415 load 1x500 dr 16x500
2x250 32x250
Lemusmus Village: Emirau F4Us put 17 bombs in the target area with unobserved results. SBDs reported three damaging hits, with other bombs falling in the target area, from which columns of smoke rose. There was no AA.
For the Record:
17 F4Us Emirau 0940 load 1x1000 dr 17x1000 fr 3/4000'
or 1x500 1x500
17 SBDs VMSB 243 1000 load 1x500 dr 17x500 fr 1500'
2x250 34x250
S. New Ireland: Two 8-plane F4U strikes went out from Green Island. Most of the bombs were aimed without success at bridges over the Puk River and in Ramut Pltn. However, four direct hits were scored on two groups of buildings at Tambakar Pt., destroying three of them.
For the Record:
16 F4Us Green load 1x500 dr 16x500 fr 1500'.
BOUGAINVILLE
Tonolei Hbr: AA positions and a supply area were the target of two strikes. Piva F4Us, 22 strong, claimed no positive results from their bombing of AA positions but put 4 bombs in a supply area and apparently started two large fires on Kleine Island. Meagre inaccurate MG and auto fire was received and one plane returned with a large hole in one wing. Twelve NZ F4Us likewise claimed no direct hits on AA positions but put 4 bombs into the supply area. No AA fire was received.
For the Record:
22 F4Us VMO 251 1200 load 1x1000 dr 22x1000 fr 2300/3500 1 Dam.
VMF 223
12 F4Us NZ 21 1210 load 1x1000 dr 12xl000 fr 3000'.
S. Bougainville Patrols: Imprudent Nips who allowed themselves to be caught in gardens or on beaches provided the main target for four 2-plane patrols. The final score added up to four Nips killed, one wounded and two "probables". In addition a hut into which one Jap fled with great rapidity, was very thoroughly strafed and another Nip was toppled out of a palm tree. At Cape Hanpan some 30 Nips and natives were seen. The Nips took off for the jungle, which was strafed, while the natives stood still. The Sterling dawn patrol reported two mines on a shoal E. of Ballale and three on a reef E. of Onua Island.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 20
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sectors Sugar and Tare had full distance and cover with excellent weather. Sector Uncle had 100% track and 75% cover, encountering heavy rain and a NW-SE frontal area N. of 03-30 N. Sector Victor had 85% track and 75% cover with a front at 04-30 N. for 80 miles.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 13, 2021 12:14:19 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 22 August 1944.
N. New Ireland Patrols: Emirau F4U patrols scored two hits on huts SE of Roland Young Pltn and two near misses on a 50 ft boat in Kavieng Hbr. Several Nips were strafed at Patlangat Pltn. Two of the five patrols which set out were forced to return because of bad weather.
For the Record:
6 F4Us Emirau load 1x500 dr 6x500
TARGET: MEDINA PLTN
This target was hit by six Emirau SBDs which reported four hits on buildings and damage to a bridge.
For the Record:
6 SBDs Emirau load 1x500 dr 6x500
2x250 12x250
BOUGAINVILLE.
Samiei River Barge: Dropping four bombs within a 15 yard radius and then making six strafing runs, 4 Torokina F4Us left a barge in the river lying on the bottom full of water. Smoke soaring to 1500 or 2000' was seen just W. of Kahili strip (see below).
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 21 1005 load 1x500 dr 4x500 fr 800'.
Monoitu Mission: Weathered out from Rataval, 8 Torokina F4Us bombed huts in the vicinity of the mission and other targets of opportunity. Flying debris constituted the only observed result. After the bombing two huts were fired by strafing. One pilot reported seeing a few MG tracers.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 19 1000 load 1x500 dr 8x500 fr 800'.
South Bougainville Patrols: Only 2 patrols were flown yesterday because of dirty weather. The first one gave the day a good start. After bowling over three stray Nips on the SE coast for a modest start, it then went on to surprise some 20 Nips just off Kahili strip. The Nips, excusably, made for the bush, which was thoroughly strafed. It is likely that some Nips were bagged. More important, the strafing apparently hit a petrol dump for black smoke had soon climbed to 2000' and when the planes returned for another look they found a large shed 25 yards from the beach an inferno of flame.
Round about midday anothor patrol pounced on 30 Nips working in a garden at Moro (SE of Kara). Two strafing runs killed an estimated 15 Nips and when the planes returned later to the scene of execution, the bodies were still sprawled on the ground. Many Japs were also seen in gardens round Muguai Mission but the weather was too bad to strafe.
TARGET: FAISI - POPORANG AREA.
Unable to bomb the assigned area because of weather, five Munda PBJs dropped most of their centuries on Lagugu Pltn. Shortland Island. Six inaccurate bursts were sent up by the Poporang heavies.
SBDs reached the target. They report hitting a warehouse at Faisi, damaging hits on a heavy AA battery at Bambagiai Pltn. Gun positions at Poporang and Bambagiai were generally reported well covered. AA fire was generally moderate and inaccurate but three auto guns in the NE corner of Bambagiai Pltn were more on the mark, holing one SBD and wounding the gunner.
For the Record:
5 PBJs VMB(M) 413 0800 load 14x100 dr 69x100
29 SBDs Munda 0805 " 1x500 dr 26x500 fr 1500'
2x250 50x250 1 Dam.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 21
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sectors Victor and Uncle had 60% track and 50% cover encountering fronts at the equator 02 and 04 degrees N. and heavy rains with a ceiling of 400 feet. Between the fronts were 7 to 8 tenths clouds. Sector Sugar had 80% track and cover with a frontal area from the equator to 01 degrees N and 9 tenths clouds in the rest of the sector. Sector Tare had 75% track 50% cover with fronts at 00-20 and, 03-40 N.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 13, 2021 12:15:53 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 23 August 1944.
For the fourth successive day bad weather exercised a restraining influence on air activity yesterday. Except for patrols over N. New Ireland, Bougainville and Buka were the only places to feel the fall of bombs. SBDs bombed the Nip trail block at Sisivie and F4Us destroyed a number of huts and contrived to kill about a dozen Nips.
BOUGAINVILLE
Tulean Pltn: Once again weathered out from Rataval, 12 Torokina F4Us bombed five huts at Tulean Pltn as a secondary target. The huts ceased to exist.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 21 0915 load 1x500 incend. dr 12x500 fr 2000'.
South Bougainville Patrols: Eleven Nips and one possible comprised the "bag" of five 2-plane patrols flown from Torokina. The Nips were almost all caught in ones and two on beaches at widely - separated points. Some of them were in full fighting kit. One patrol reported that on the W side of Moila Pt there is a small hut. A pillbox, then a gun emplacement with a gun of about 3" calibre and finally another pillbox.
Other Missions: Planes on the poop sheet hop smoked a hut at Kessa Pltn. They reported scattered groups of huts, many with new roofs, at the foot of the high cliff all the way from Kessa to Cape Hanpan. A weathered-out Put Put sweep of four F4Us killed one Nip on the W const of Taiof Is.
N. NEW IRELAND PATROLS
Of the scheduled Rabaul and Kavieng day and night blockading, all that was flown was the day cover over N. New Ireland where 14 F4Us operated. One fire was started among houses on Roland Young Pltn, a hut was fired at Lossuk Bay and others at Balgai and Balus Pltn were damaged. One plane was holed by light AA near Balus.
For the Record:
14 F4Us Emirau load dr 5 1/2 tons 1 Dam.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 22
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sectors Sugar Tare and Victor were grounded by the weather. Sector Uncle went full distance for 75% cover. There was a heavy front extending to 150 miles north of Emirau. There was a small front at 04 degrees north. The remainder of the sector had a high overcast.
Two Corsairs were alerted from Emirau at 1715 Love to search for a Navy-type life raft reported by Scat near Tench Island. The search was negative.
Other local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 13, 2021 12:50:44 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 24 August 1944
Yesterday the weather improved at last and planes were able to reach Rabaul. Principal targets for the day were one of the Rataval supply areas, buildings and bridges at many points in New Ireland, and a reported Nip bivouac area near where Moroni village used to be.
BLOCKADE
Rabaul Patrols: Results achieved by these patrols included the following: 3 direct hits on huts in canyon 2 miles S of Talili Bay., 1 direct hit on tin-roofed building at same place., 1 direct hit on Rember Village, Watom., 1 barge sunk at Rapatur (Watom), six other camouflaged barges strafed with unobserved results. Trucks were seen in several places.
For the Record:
F4Us Green 0700 load 1x1000 dr. 18x1000 fr. 2500' 1800
Duke of York-Cape Lambert: Four F4Us on this sweep straddled the sawmill three-quarters of a mile due E of Keravat. Strafing smoked a couple of native-type huts half a mile W of Ragaga Bay and in the same area half a dozen cows were killed. On the coast road at Wangaramut Pltn. one truck was fired and two others damaged. They were carrying vegetables. Meagre inaccurate MG fire came from the Pltn.
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 19 1300 load 1x500 dr. 4x500 fr. 8/1500'.
1630
Put Put-Keravat: Two four-plane sweeps were run from Torokina. The first smoked a 30'x20' green-roofed building midway between Keravat and Vunakanau. Meagre inaccurate 50 calibre fire was received from about the centre of the Keravat experimental gardens, also meagre and inaccurate auto fire from S of Vunakanau. The second sweep discovered alongside a tributary of the Keravat River a timber-fronted structure with several openings built into the side of a bank. Strafing left it burning furiously.
Six runs were made on 6-7 MG's in a clearing 2 1/2 miles S of Vunakanau. All stopped firing and only one opened up when the planes were over the spot later. A truck at the highest point on the Tobera-Vunakanau road was treated as a decoy as meagre inaccurate 20MM fire was received as the planes prepared to strafe.
TARGET: RATAVAL
After having been protected by weather for several days, Rataval 127 was bombed yesterday by 33 fighter-bombers.
Twelve Torokina F4Us with oil incendiaries put 10 of their bombs in the area and left three small fires with thin columns of black smoke to 1500 ft. Meagre inaccurate light and auto AA came from known positions on ridges E of the target.
Eleven VMO 251 planes reported all their bombs in the area with unobserved results. A twelfth plane, off late, fired three huts just W of Hapan, Buka, with a direct hit. The Rataval planes reported seeing three small fires in the target area when at the R/V point after the strike. There was no AA.
Finally 10 VMF 223 F4Us reported five of their bombs in the target area, with the fall of the other five unobserved. No large fires or explosions were seen. One plane developed engine trouble on reaching the target and returned with its wingman, both jettisoning their bombs. There was no AA.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 19 0930 load 1x500 incend. dr. 12x500 fr. 3000'
12 F4Us VMO 251 1030 " 1x500 mag. cl. " 12x500 fr, 2500' (1 on Buka)
12 F4Us VMF 223 1025 " 1x500 mag. cl. dr. 10x500 fr. 1500/2500'
NEW IRELAND
Kokola-Labur: Sixteen Green Island SBDs hit targets between these two points. Main results were: direct hit on building at Komalu, one bridge at Kokola destroyed, another damaged; one large building destroyed at Labur. There was no AA.
For the Record:
16 SBDs Green 1100 load 1x500 13x500
or 2x250 25x250 fr. 1500/2000'
1x650 DC 3x650
1x325 DC 3x325
Kianbi Pltn: This target was attacked by eight Green Island F4Us which reported one hit on huts. The pilots reported the plantation area largely burnt out. There was no AA.
For the Record:
8 F4Us Green 0920 load 1x1000 fr. 3000'
0950 or 1x500 dr. 7x1000
1x500
N New Ireland: Working over this area by divisions 19 Emirau SBDs scored 6 hits on buildings in the Cape Sass area, starting one fire; five hits on buildings at Bolegila Pltn, starting five fires; 11 hits on buildings and a bridge approach at Mongai. One burst of heavy AA was noted over Kavieng.
Flying in pairs and divisions 38 F4Us fired a house at Konabin and another at Koka Pltn., and directly hit hut clusters at Mongai Bay and Lamussung Pltn. One plane was holed by intense MG fire from SE of Koka Pltn.; 20 MM fire was received from Lamussong Pltn.
For the Record:
19 SBDs Emirau load 1x500 dr. 19x500
2x250 38x250
38 F4Us Emirau dr. 14 1/2 tons 1 dam.
BOUGAINVILLE
Moroni Bivouac area: Led by a Wing TBF, 15 SBDs and 12 strafing F4Us from Piva attacked a reported Nip bivouac area at Moroni, to which surviving Nips retired after the village was obbiterated a short time ago. The strike was at the request of XIV Corps.
The SBDs reported good coverage. Then the F4Us made two strafing passes ever the target. Jungle hid the results. The TBF contributed 11 centuries and reported that most of the SBDs bombs found the target area. One which did not, however, caused some little excitement when a 250 lb. bomb fell off just after the take-off and fell- unarmed - into a camp within the perimeter.
For the Record:
15 SBDs VMSB 236 1005 load 1x500 dr. 14x500 fr. 2000'
2x250 25x250
1 TBF FMAW 1005 " 12x100 " 11x100
Bougainville Patrols: Even though the weather was fine, live targets provided the main interest for the five 2-plane patrols run from Torokina. Twelve naked Nips scrambling from the beach to the brush at Metong Pt. were strafed with unobserved results, likewise three more in the Luluai Pt area. Five more Nips, burdened with full kit, raced into the bush three miles S of Motupena Pt. The spot where they disappeared was strafed. Two huts were smoked 3 miles N of Metong.
Searches for August 23.
Beefsteak searches went full distance in all sectors: Sector SUGAR had 100% cover with 4 tenths cumulus clouds. Sector TARE had 95% cover with a dissipating weak front at 00-30 south to 03 degrees north. Sector UNCLE had 95% cover with a weak front at 01 degrees south to 00-30 north. Sector VICTOR had 100% cover with a small front at 02-30 north. Sector VICTOR sighted at 1015 LOVE a surfaced sub with a course of 090 SOA 12 knots at 04-28 north 151-23 east. The sub crash dived. No action was taken. Searches were otherwise negative.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 14, 2021 12:52:29 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 25 August 1944.
Rabaul Patrols: Results of bombing were as follows:
Village of many huts and several 100x150 ft buildings on SW coast of Watom Island left mostly demolished or burning. Three direct hits on concentration of 10-12 buildings 2 1/2 miles S. of Talili Bay, destroying 7. Direct hit on hut at Talili Bay. Possible damage to 100x50' warehouse at Lassul Bay and 120x60' building at Rokunda Pltn.
Thirty foot barge left burning at SW point of Watom Is.
Meagre inaccurate MG came from E of Ravalue and light flak from an unidentified position holed one plane.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Green 0700 load 1x1000 dr 20x1000 fr 2600' 1 Dam. 1800
Put Put - Keravat: Four Torokina F4Us strafed several targets, including a possible storage area in Wat Wat Pltn, without observed result. Several MG or 20mm guns were firing from Londip Pltn and light and medium fire which was intense and accurate came from positions S. of Vunakanau.
Duke of York - Cape Lambert: Three of the planes which took part in this sweep stayed at Green Island. One is reported to have been damaged by AA. The fourth pilot, who returned early because of hydraulic trouble, reported that the sweep had fired on truck in Wunawatung Pltn and was attacking others W. of Vulcan Crater when he had to break off.
Kavieng Patrols: Ten 2-plane F4U patrols with quarter - tonners destroyed single houses at Lakurumau Pltn and Pinikindu and huts at Rittmeyer Pltn, and fired a house at each of Patlangat and Libba Pltns. No AA fire was received. One F4U pilot on a test hop was forced to bail out but was rescued by PT boats.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Emirau load 1x500 dr 19x500.
TARGET: KARMIRABA PLTN
Armed with one quarter - tonner and two eighth tonners three SBDs bombed a reported Nip bivouac area at the above plantation with unobserved results.
For the Record:
3 SBDs Emirau load 1x500 dr 3x500
2x250 6x250
BOUGAINVILLE
Moila Pt. Guns: Two missions from Torokina went down to hit the coast guns sighted there by a plane from the strip a couple of days ago. The first 12 planes reported two direct hits on the emplacement of a possible 3" gun in a steel turret. Planes on another mission took a look at the area and reported the bombing appeared to blow away the camouflage and the turret. There were a series of apparently unused dug-outs in the area, no gardens and only one well-worn track.
A second strike missed the mark with its bombs but after a reconnaissance from 20 ft without opposition the pilots believed the guns were either dummies or abandoned. There were two barrels pointing west but no track activity or signs of life. The planes cruised over the area for 20 minutes without drawing any ground fire.
A Wing TBF pilot over the area at the time of the second attack reported seeing two guns under tall trees. A blockhouse was seen near the guns. The TBF's bombs all hung up.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 19 0900 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000 fr 1000'
4 F4Us NZ 21 1500 load 1x500 dr 4x500 fr 1500'
Komai area villages: Attacking this area three F4Us dropped two bombs on a group of huts on the E bank of the Samiei and one on a village a little SW of Komai. Fire and smoke from the bombs was the only observed result. Numerous groups of huts were strafed and one was left burning.
For the Record:
3 F4Us NZ 19 1040 load 1x500 incend dr 3x500 fr 500/2000'
Teanin Area: A single SBD dropped three bombs on a group of huts two miles inland from Teanin. One bomb was a damaging hit, the other two duds. Six Japs, one with a sword, were seen on the beach 4 miles N of Amun and another was swimming two miles N of Tsimba Mission.
For the Record:
1 SBD 1410 lead 1x500 dr 1x500
2x250 2x250
South Bougainville Patrols: Two two-plane patrols from Torokina killed two Nips and possibly a third. Several others were seen. Two outrigger canoes found drawn up under trees at Puk Puk are considered to have been destroyed. An MG in a clearing at Casuarinas stopped firing after being strafed. One plane was holed by a single 50 calibre run firing from Kangu Hill.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 24
Beefsteak searches were negative. All sectors had full distance and cover. The weather was excellent with 3 to 4 tenths clouds.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 14, 2021 13:32:49 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 26 August 1944.
Put Put-Keravat: One sweep of 4 NZ F4Us covering this area smoked three trucks, two in the Talili Bay area and one near BITA PAKA. One of the trucks was laden with white trays, another with sacks. East of the Keravat gardens a native hut was smoked. One plane was hit by light AA from near Vunakanau. A second sweep smoked two huts. Meagre inaccurate heavy fire came from near Toma Pltn., meagre inaccurate auto from known positions on the Malabunga Rd.
Duke of York-Cape Lambert: Four more F4Us on this sweep, with bombs, stripped the cover off a truck at Wangaramut Pltn. and then riddled it by strafing. Later they fired a stationary gasoline truck in the Rataval area. They saw a good many other trucks but lost sight of most of them when they tried to strafe.
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 19 1245 load 1x500 dr. 4x500
1610
A delayed report of one of the previous day's sweeps, from which three of four planes remained overnight at Green Island, reveals it to have been an eventful mission. One truck was blown up by a bomb, one was fired, four were smoked and two others hit. One bomb caused considerable damage among huts and what appeared to be a storage dump in the Wunawatung area. A Nip manning a MG near Vunakanau was killed.
The Nips got some of their own back when one plane was badly hit in the aileron and flaps by two bursts of 40 MM fire from a point being strafed near Vunakanau. The pilot regained control of the plane only at the last possible moment and landed at Green Island.
Pilots reported what was apparently a considerable truck park in a ravine near a road junction in the Keravia Bay area. There was camouflage netting and trucks were seen in revetments but strafing was impossible because of the nature of the terrain. Slit trenches and an apparent supply area were seen in Wangaramut Pltn., where large green tarpaulins were reported spread on the ground.
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 19 24th load 1x500 dr. 4x500 1 dam.
Rabaul Patrols: Five Rabaul patrols with half tonners scored two hits on Tobera strip and destroyed a hut on Watom Island. Other bombs cratered roads and possibly damaged several buildings. Moderate light accurate AA came from revetted positions 100 yards inshore at Nauwaum Pltn. and meagre light accurate MG from the vicinity of Manton Pltn.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Green 0715 load 1x1000 dr. 18x1000 fr. 2500'
1800
N New Ireland Patrols: Nine 2-plane F4U patrols obliterated 2 MG positions at Libba; damaged a warehouse at Koka Pltn.; smoked two huts at Panaris; caused a large fire at Lamussong, where a station wagon was strafed; and strafed two whaleboats North of Lakurafange. Light AA came from Fangelawa and intense MG fire from Pinikindu.
For the Record:
18 F4Us Emirau load 1x500 dr. 18x500
TARGET: KERAVAT BRIDGE
Two of three spans in a wooden bridge on the main road through the Keravat experimental gardens were knocked out by the bombs of four Torokina F4Us. Strafing fired two sheds near Bita Paka and riddled a nearby truck. Smoke rose to 500 ft.
For the Record:
4 F4Us 19 1335 load 1x1000 dr. 4x1000 fr. 500'
1610
TARGET: NEW IRELAND
SW New Ireland: Eighteen of 19 Green Island SBDs, weathered out from Rabaul, hit targets of opportunity in SW New Ireland. Results were: Direct hits on building at Tambakar Pt, several small huts damaged, beached boat damaged. Huts on NW shore of Lamassa Island damaged. Two 50 ft. buildings N of Malaban R. destroyed, other buildings damaged.
For the Record:
18 SBDs Green 0940 load 1x1000 dr. 18x1000 fr 1/2000'
0955 2x100 36x100
Nauwaun Pltn.; Hitting this target 8 F4Us with three direct hits destroyed a large building (100'x100') and three huts.
For the Record:
8 F4Us Green 0925 load 1x500 dr. 8x500 fr. 2000' 0938
N. New Ireland; Five flights of four F4Us destroyed three huts at Lakurafange and damaged buildings at Koka Pltn. Three flights of six SBDs scored two direct hits on buildings at Panaras. There was no AA.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr. 18x1000
1x500 18x500
18 SBDs Emirau " 2x250 " 30x250
TARGET: TONOLEI
Targets for Munda planes were Tonolei Harbor guns, installations and supply areas. First 23 SBDs reported scoring direct hits on three piers and damaging possibly two more. One plane's bombs were described as confirmed damaging hits on two autos. Meagre inaccurate auto fire came from Taurato Is. and from an MG on the E shore of the hbr. Two planes were holed and three more collected pieces of sharpnel from their own bombs.
Five PBJs put 28 centuries of their load on a supply area just E of Kleine Island but the remaining part of the load missed another supply area which was obscured by cloud. No AA fire was seen.
For the Record:
23 SBDs Munda 1555 load 1x500 dr. 22x500 fr. 1500'
2x250 44x250 2 dam.
5 PBJs Munda 1600 " 14x100 " 70x100 " 10,000'
BOUGAINVILLE
Rovovana Guns: Coast guns reported in this position were attacked by 9 F4Us, which put 6 of their bombs into the designated area without observed results. The area was also thoroughly strafed, with results again obscured by jungle. No guns were seen.
For the Record:
9 F4Us NZ 19 1040 load 1x500 dr. 8x500 fr. 1200' 1140
Searches for August 25.
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sector SUGAR went full distance had 80% cover with 3 tenths clouds to 03-30 north and a solid overcast beyond. Sector TARE had 90% track and 80% cover encountering line squalls 01 to 05 degrees north and an East West front at 05 degrees north. Sector VICTOR had 100% track 90% cover and a large squall line at 05-30 north. Sector UNCLE had 100% track 85% cover with a frontal area at 06 degrees north.
Local Able-Charlie searches killed 7 Japs fishing 15 yards offshore at Tenekau Plantation. Local searches otherwise negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 15, 2021 10:31:46 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 27 August 1944.
N. New Ireland Patrols: Nine two-plane F4U patrols from Emirau fired a house at Lamerniwi, demolished a boathouse on Limonak Island and wrecked several buildings at Kaut Bay. One plane was holed by meagre MG fire from Lossuk.
For the Record:
8 F4Us Emirau load 1x500 dr 18x500 1 Dam.
Rabaul Patrols: Patrols from Green Island had a net unprofitable day, highlighted by the feat of one pilot in landing a bomb in the middle of a group of 30 Nips in the Keravat gardens. It is estimated that at least 20 departed this life while a building fell over in sympathy. In addition two huts were destroyed at Nakukuru Pt, a building damaged at Tobera, and two huts destroyed at Laweo. One of two barges at Rember appeared serviceable. Ten AA flashes were seen from the SE end of Vunakanau.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Green 0700 load 1x1000 dr 20x1000 fr 100-3500'. 1635
Duke of York - Cape Lambert: Three Torokina planes on this sweep smoked three new-looking huts along the coast road between Talili Bay and Liguan Bay.
Put Put - Keravat: A juicy target fell to two of the four planes on the first of these sweeps (they were unable to contact the other two). Headed west on Tunnel Hill road about half a mile from Talili Bay they discovered a convoy of 15-20 trucks, spaced at 50 yard intervals and in motion when they were first sighted. After three strafing runs by each plane six trucks were smoking and another had been riddled. For good measure the sweep later smoked another small truck near Vunakanau and abruptly terminated the career of a sprinting Nip south of Cape Gazelle. Intense inaccurate medium AA came from Tunnel Hill; and intense accurate light fire from the vicinity of Vunakanau holed one plane 9 times.
With one of its bombs the second sweep brought the southern Keravat sawmill tumbling down. Of three camouflaged trucks one was smoked and the other two well riddled. One Nip did his last day's work in the Keravat gardens. Intense but inaccurate light and possible medium fire came from Tunnel Hill ridge.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 21 load 1x1000 dr 4x1000 1 dam.
TARGET: RABAUL AA AND BARGES
Repeating the previous day's co-ordinated strike, 68 SBD's and F4Us struck AA positions and barges. Photos showed two auto guns on Observatory Hill, also a large building there, destroyed as a result of yesterday's or the previous day's attacks.
Opening the attack, 19 Green Island SBDs hit AA positions on Hospital Ridge and Matupi Is. They reported direct hits on MG positions ard damaging hits on two lots of autos. AA, mostly moderate and of varying accuracy, came from a number of points with the Praed Pt Nips putting up the best performance by sending up intense accurate auto fire from 3 positions. Two planes were holed.
Guns in the Tunnel Hill Road area were the target of 15
Piva SBDs, which were unable to pin-point results of their attack. However, one F4U pilot reported seeing one gun blown into the air. None of the target guns were firing and the only AA seen was MG fire from the shore of Talili Bay.
Of 34 Piva F4Us, 18 bombed and 16 strafed barges. Except for one possible direct hit on an auto in the Malaguna area, results of the bombing were generally unobserved. The strafing planes fired a couple of barges near Toboi Wharf, riddled three more at Walaur and hit another in the same place. AA fire from several points was meagre and inaccurate. The target guns did not fire.
For the Record:
19 SBDs Green 0925 load 1x1000 dr 19x1000 fr 1500/3000' 2x100 dr 38x100 1 Dam.
15 SBDs VMSB 236 0935 " 1x500 dr 14x500
2x250 26x250
34 F4Us VMF 223 0935 " 1x1000 dr 15x1000 fr 2/2500'.
NEW IRELAND
Bridges: Eight Green Island F4Us attacked New Ireland bridges, destroying one at Rabulut Pltn. Eight shacks N of Borpop were strafed and left smoking.
For the Record:
8 F4Us Green 0945 load 1x500 dt 8x500 fr 280'.
1015
Amba and Medina: Over this area 23 Emirau F4Us hit a bridge at Dallum Pltn and demolished buildings and started three fires at Medina Pltn. One plane was holed at Amba and another at Logagon by meagre MG fire.
Three flights of 6 SBDs hit buildings and a bridge and destroyed huts at Amba, also hit buildings and a bridge at Medina Pltn. Moderate accurate auto AA from Amba hit one plane in the propeller.
For the Record:
23 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr 23x1000 2 Dam.
18 SBDs Emirau " 1x500 18x500
2x250 dr 36x250 1 Dam.
BOUGAINVILLE
Bridges: A dozen Torokina F4Us set out to attack the Pororei, Uguimo and Muliko bridges but failed to destroy them, although one was left covered with debris. Light, meagre and inaccurate AA came from the E slopes of Kangu Hill.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 21 1130 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000 fr 2000'.
Bougainville Patrols: The pursuit of Nips continued yesterday and five two-plane patrols from Torokina totted up a score of eight. In addition four VMF 212 F4Us put a familiarisation flight to good use by killing three or four more. The first Torokina patrol strafed with unobserved results an apparently serviceable small barge just off the beach at Anewa, slightly smoked a log-laden truck in the Kara area and killed one of the 4 Nips on the back. The third patrol left a fire spreading among eight native type huts at Cape L'Averdy and burnt out another hut on Teop Island. The next patrol saw this hut completely burnt out and also a couple of dead cows at Cape L'Averdy. The last patrol saw three small camouflaged barge of doubtful serviceability in the Samiei River.
A few rounds of light AA fire came from between the Samiei and Mal river and meagre inaccurate MG fire from East Point (Tonolei).
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 26
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sector Victor had 100% track and 95% cover with heavy rain squalls and frontal conditions at 04 north. Sector Uncle had full track and cover with 4 tenths clouds. Sector Sugar had 100% track and cover with 3 tenths clouds.
Local Able and Charlie searches by the NZ 19 killed 7 Japs by strafing at various points on Buka and Bougainville.
Other local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 15, 2021 10:35:31 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 28 August 1944.
Rabaul Patrols: Carrying 1000 lb bombs, 20 F4Us caused a fire smoking to 2000 ft by hits on and among houses at Nordup, another smoking to 1000 ft after a hit in a Rapopo revetment. In addition they damaged huts and building at several points, fired a truck at Rapitok and killed a Nip in a canoe. Moderate accurate 20 mm fire came from Nordup, meagre inaccurate MG from NE of Mieka Island. One plane was holed.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Green 0715 load 1x1000 dr 20x1000 fr 2900' 1 Damaged.
1730
Duke of York - Cape Lambert: Bombs from this Torokina sweep demolished a 30 ft bridge over the main coast road at Wangaramut Pltn and similarly treated two corrugated iron buildings in a gully a mile SW of Kabagada Pt. Four or five revetments, possibly for trucks, were seen in the same area. Strafing smoked three huts, fired a staff car and riddled a small truck.
For the Record:
3 F4Us NZ 19 1215 load 1x500 dr 3x500 fr 500'
1540
Put Put - Keravat: Four strafing planes on this search smoked two trucks and hit a third, smoked a European-type building in the Liguan Bay area and a hut in Natava Pltn. Five Nips were killed, two as they jumped from one of the strafed trucks.
New Ireland Patrols: Nine pairs of F4Us fired 2 huts at Dallum and damaged several on Pinis Island. A fire with thick smoke to 1000 ft was noted at Fatmilak Pltn. Meagre inaccurate 20 mm came from Lossuk.
For the Record:
18 F4Us Emirau load 1x500 dr 18x500
RABAUL
Keravia Bay Truck Park: Eleven Torokina F4Us left a pall of black smoke in the target area but reported that the transport park was apparently not hit. There was no AA.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 19 0955 load 1x1000 dr 11x1000 fr 2500'.
NEW IRELAND
Bridges: Between Mumu Island and Cape Bakan 18 SBDs directly hit one bridge and damaged three others.
For the Record:
18 SBDs Green 1050 load 1x500 dr 18x500 fr 1500'
1100 2x250 36x250
SW New Ireland: Eight F4Us knocked out the side of a building at Maton Pltn and scored a direct hit in the centre of a group of buildings at Cape Semalu.
For the Record:
8 F4Us Green 0925 load 1x500 dr 8x500 fr 1000'.
0945
Libba Pltn: Two flights of 8 and one flight of 7 F4Us, bombing designated New Ireland targets, reported demolishing a 20 mm gun position and directly hitting a bridge at Libba Pltn. The result of the rest of the bombs was unobserved. Light inaccurate AA was received.
For the Record:
23 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr 23x1000
N. New Ireland: Nineteen SBDs reported firing buildings at Libba Pltn and damaging several huts at Patlangat Pltn. Meagre inaccurate auto AA came from Pinikindu Pt.
For the Record:
19 SBDs Emirau load 1x500 dr 19x500 2x250 dr 36x250.
BOUGAINVILLE
Sisivie Road Block: Fifteen SBDs bombed this target as marked by a TBF with smoke grenades. However, the TBF pilot reported that the smoke was quickly blown down the valley, leading the SBDs to bomb 150 yards from the correct spot.
For the Record:
15 SBDs VMSB 236 0705 load 1x500 dr 15x500 fr 1500'
2x250 25x250
Nakaro Bivouac: Four Torokina F4Us put three of their bombs into the target area without observed results and then made four strafing runs. They saw numerous gardens, with tracks all running to the target area. They also found the Pororei bridge, bombed the day before, to be destroyed.
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 19 1530 load 1x500 dr 4x500 fr 500'
Bougainville Patrols: An "island" in Lake Lahala, which has been intriguing Torokina pilots for some time by moving hither and yon across the lake, came in for some attention. Strafing brought no results and the final report was that it was probably a collection of weed and brush. Four patrols were flown. The first reported a look-out tower on a hill in Toimonapu Pltn. The second patrol killed four Nips (two of them fishing in a canoe at Kieta), raised a vivid sheet of flame and black smoke to 500 ft by strafing Ballale Island. A multiple MG there sent up a lot of inaccurate tracer but the Nip gunners had seen enough of tracer before the show was over as strafing apparently hit the ammunition. There was another vivid flame and then tracer started flying in all directions, quite possibly perforating some of the over-zealous gun crew. The next sweep sank an outrigger canoe in Arawa Bay and the final one killed three more Nips and sent a couple of huts in the Shortlands up in flames. A 20 mm situated near the two coast guns at Hahela (Buka) opened an accurate fire. The coast guns were reported destroyed some time ago.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 27
Beefsteak searches were negative. Sector Sugar had full distance and cover with a front at 03 north. Sector Tare had 100% track with heavy rain squalls up to 03 north and frontal activity from 03 to 05 north. Sector Uncle had 80% track and 75% cover with an east west front at 05 north. Sector Victor had 100% track 80% cover with an east west front at 05 north.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 15, 2021 10:55:08 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 29 August 1944.
N New Ireland Patrols: Nine 2-plane patrols destroyed a bridge at Katendan, smoked houses at Medina, demolished a house at Katanu, and damaged a bridge at Panemansu Pt. There was no AA.
For the Record:
18 F4Us Emirau load 1x500 dr. 16x500
Rabaul Patrols: These five patrols demolished two huts at Kabagada and one at Tambakar, damaged another at Vunakanau and destroyed a house at Manwan Pt., Duke of York. Two trucks covered with palm fronds were fired at Kenabot Pltn. Another uncamouflaged truck at a road junction near Toma Village was attacked but the planes were fired on by four twin-mount MGs. Inaccurate 20 MM fire was also received from Rataval.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Green 0715-1800 load 1x1000 dr. 20x1000 fr. 2700'
Put Put-Malabunga-Keravat: Two sweeps were flown over this area from Torokina. In the Tobera area the first sweep killed four of six Nips pushing a handcart containing what looked like two MGs. For good measure two more Nips were killed in gardens W of Put Put Pltn. The second sweep smoked a couple of huts near Tobers. These planes received moderate inaccurate auto fire from Mt. Varzin. A brilliant cylindrical object, seen shining in the sun at one end of Keravat strip, was put down as a possible AA trap.
Duke of York-Cape Lambert: Four planes on this sweep found a truckload of soldiers headed west half a mile E of the Keravat gardens. The truck went up flames and the soldiers went into the bush, which was strafed. Another truck was riddled and a jetty plus a serviceable-looking barge shot up at Bulup (Ataliklikun Bay). Moderate inaccurate 50 calibre fire came from the ridge over Tunnel Hill road.
RABAUL
N New Ireland: Twenty F4Us in three flights damaged a bridge at Mongai and several houses at Koka Pltn., where light MG was received.
Three flights of six SBDs fired buildings at Soubu Pltn., where smoke rose to 1500 ft. Meagre inaccurate, auto fire came from Kaf Kaf Pltn.
For the Record:
20 F4Us Emirau load 1x1000 dr. 19x1000
18 SBDs " " 1x500 " 17x500
2x250 36x250
NEW IRELAND
Bridges: Seventeen SBDs destroyed a bridge over the first river S of the Soalaba; destroyed a hut near another bridge; damaged a bridge in the centre of Belik Pltn.; destroyed a bridge at the S end of the pltn. and damaged a group of huts in the vicinity. A few possible small calibre tracers came from the Belik area.
Eight F4Us, despite having their numbers reduced by mechanical trouble, destroyed the Sae River bridge. Various targets were strafed.
For the Record:
8 F4Us Green 0930-1115 load 1x500 dr. 5x500
18 SBDs Green 1055 " 1x500 " 17x500
2x250 34x250 fr. 2000'
BOUGAINVILLE
Bridges; Separate missions of 4 F4Us attacked the Uguimo, Mulilo and Pororei bridges. Three bombs fell within five yards of the first named bridge which is considered certain to have been damaged. Both the other two bridges were missed. Meagre and inaccurate light fire came from the cliff by the Pororei bridge. One mission made up for missing its bridges by killing a couple of Nips.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 21 1300 load 1x1000 dr. 12x1000 fr. 2000'
1410
S Bougainville Patrols: Four 2-plane patrols, the second two provided from Piva, were flown. The first pair got two Nips and a probable at Sorum, fired an empty truck and riddled two more near Kara — an unusually good "bag" of trucks for Bougainville. The second patrol riddled a rowboat on the beach just W of the Mal R. During this strafing the port wing and engine of one plane burst into flames. The pilot pulled up to 600 ft. and bailed out, halfway between West Point and Erventa Is. but the 'chute was not seen to open. Search was made without success.
The final two patrols were uneventful except for the killing of one Nip at Hahela and the sighting of 10 more 25 miles up the coast from Torokina.
An additional Nip was killed by VMF 212 planes on a familiarisation flight.
Meagre inaccurate heavy AA from Buka, and moderate accurate light and possible 20 MM from Kara, were encountered by the first sweep.
Searches for August 28.
Beefsteak searches sector TARE sighted Nip hospital ship 06-10 north 147-58 East at 1050 LOVE course 90 degrees SOA 12 knots, with 100% track 95% cover. There was a deep frontal area at 01 degrees south.
Sector SUGAR had 100% track and 95% cover. Sector UNCLE had full distance and cover.
Sector VICTOR had 100% track and 98% cover with 4 tenths clouds based at 1500 feet and scattered showers above the equator.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 15, 2021 11:29:37 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 30 August 1944.
N New Ireland Patrols: Eight F4U patrols scored a direct hit on an MG position at Koka Pltn, destroyed a house at Lakurafange and smoked several huts at Pinikindu Pt. Intense inaccurate MG fire was received from Koka.
For the Record:
16 F4U Emirau load 1x500 dr 14x500
Rabaul Patrols: Three of the five scheduled patrols were stymied by weather. Those which did get through destroyed several huts near Keravat and a house on Duke of York Island. Piles of drums were seen under cocoanut trees 300 yards inland from the pier at Garerr Bay.
For the Record:
12 F4Us Green load 1x1000 dr 12x1000 fr 2500'
Duke of York - Cape Lambert: The first of two four-plane patrols from Piva strafed a hut at Tawui Pt. and five Japs who ran from it. The second flight was turned back by weather at Cape Narum, where it received meagre medium inaccurate AA.
Put Put - Keravat: The first of these two patrols fired a hut about 3 miles inland from Keravat. The second strafed two trucks and a sedan, also two groups of 10 Nips, all with unobserved results.
TARGET: PONDO - TORIU AREAS
Reported Nip personnel areas in the Pondo and Toriu districts were hit yesterday with 66 tons of bombs by, 147 planes, which were over the target from 0725 until after midday.
Photos covering five of the eight target areas and taken before the completion of the attack showed a 50x20' building at Pondo Hbr destroyed and one 90'x40' damaged. At Pondo Pltn an 80'x70' building was destroyed and a 40'x30' one was burning. Two small builings on the Toriu were also seen to have been destroyed.
Nine PBJs, opening the attack, left much white smoke over Pondo targets. Meagre inaccurate MG fire holed one plane. Green Island SBDs and F4Us were weathered out.
Fifteen Piva SBDs recorded two bomb loads as direct hits on Pondo buildings. They started two fires. Flashes from two possible autos were seen.
VMO 251 F4Us from Piva had results of their attacks obscured by jungle. No AA was seen but one plane was holed and the pilot had lens part of his goggles fractured. VMF 223 planes saw one direct hit on a Pondo area building and fired a hut by strafing. Smoke columns were seen in the Pondo target area.
Emirau's contribution was 23 F4Us which hit Toriu targets, 16 PBJs and 17 SBDs which bombed both Pondo and Toriu. Results were obscured by jungle, though one building was seen to be hit. One PBJ was holed.
16 Green Island F4Us after being weathered out earlier took up the attack without observed results. Meagre inaccurate 20 mm fire was encountered from the Pondo area.
Finally 22 Green Island SBDs started a small fire in the Pondo area. Splashes from meagre MG fire were seen offshore. A 120' serviceable - looking barge was seen up a river and two more, possibly serviceable, at Wunabalo Island.
For the Record:
8 PBJs Green 0725-0730 load 14x100 dr 112x100 1 dam
23 F4Us Emirau 0910 " 1x1000 " 21x1000 fr 3500'
16 PBJs Emirau 0913-0932 " 14x100 " 204x100 fr 120' 1 dam
15 SBDs VMSB 236 0935 " 1x500 " 15x500 fr 1500'
2x250 28x250
15 F4Us VMO 251 1010 " 1x500 " 15x500 fr 1800' 1 dam
15 F4Us VMF 223 1020-1050 " 1x500 " 15x500 fr 1500'
17 SBDs Emirau 1030 " 1x500 " 17x500 fr 1500'
2x250 33x250
16 F4Us Green 1150-1220 " 1x500 " 16x500 fr 1/3000'
22 SBDs Green 1215-1225 " 1x500 " 22x500 fr 2500'
2x250 44x250
Bougainville Sweeps: Five of these were run, four from Torokina and one from Piva. One of the planes on the first sweep apparently hit a tree when strafing 3-4 Nips in gardens S of Kara. It crashed in flares. The second pair killed a Jap on the beach N of Lake Lahala and strafed what looked like a Nip landing craft a mile south of Pupukuna Pt (Tonolei). This was smoking before being strafed and smoked more afterward. On the third sweep a truck near Kahili was fired. Thirty minutes later it appeared that an attempt had been made to unload it so it was again strafed and left burning. The coast gun near Moila Pt was reported to have been either hit by a bomb or dismantled as it appeared to be in pieces with the revetment empty. In a garden at Kara the Nips had been up to some of their old tricks for a tree stump was seen adorned with coat and hat to represent a man.
Two huts at Nakoi were riddled by the fourth patrol and the fifth killed three Japs.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 29.
Sectors Sugar and Tare were both negative with 100% track 60% cover, rain squalls and a front north of the equator. Sector Victor had 95% track and 90% cover. At 1024 Love it sighted the previously reported Nip hospital ship at 05-53 north 151-40 East course 030 true speed 12 knots. The ship did not reply to challenge. Sector Uncle was forced back after 50% track 25% cover due to engine trouble and heavy weather. There was a heavy front east-west of the equator.
Local searches were negative.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Feb 16, 2021 10:46:34 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 31 August 1944
New Ireland Patrols: Bad weather in the north relented sufficiently to allow only one two-plane F4U patrol to reach its objective. It dropped a couple of bombs with unobserved results.
For the Record:
2 F4Us Emirau load 1x500 dr. 2x500
Rabaul Patrols: The first patrol destroyed several buildings at Manwan Pt., Duke of York. The second demolished a bridge S of Keravat. The third hit a truck with strafing and smoked a 50 ft barge on a reef near Orara Island. Weather foiled the last two patrols.
For the Record:
12 F4Us Green load 1x1000 dr. 11x1000
or 1x500 1x500
NEW IRELAND
Maton and Naumaun: Eight Green Island Corsairs destroyed two 60' x 20' buildings at Maton Pltn. and damaged buildings at Nauwaun Pltn.
For the Record:
8 F4Us Green 0930-1000 load 1x500 dr. 8x500 fr. 100'
Cape Bakan-Nabuto Bay: This area was covered by 22 Green SBDs, which made bridges their main objective. They hit two and damaged two more. Meagre inaccurate 50 calibre or 20 MM came from near a river 100 yards from the shore at Ramut Pltn.
For the Record:
22 SBDs Green 1045-1100 load 1x500 dr. 21x500 fr. 1/2000'
2x250 42x250
Himau Pltn.: No. 3 squadron of PV-1s resumed operations modestly when one plane bombed a jetty and shed just N of Himau Pltn. Four bombs missed but another cratered a road near a bridge in the same area.
For the Record:
1 PV NZ 3 load 6x250 dr. 5x250
BOUGAINVILLE
Bridges: The Pororei, Aguimo and Muliko bridges were again attacked. The first-named two escaped but the third collected a direct hit which sent debris flying into the air. Poor weather handicapped the bombing.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 21 0930 load 1x1000 dr. 12x1000 fr. 2000'
Bougainville Patrols: On the whole the day was uneventful. The first patrol strafed various targets with unobserved results. It received moderate and fairly accurate MG fire on both sides of Kahili strip. The second patrol was forced ? ward by weather, strafing huts with unobserved results. The third was weathered out altogether.
Two NZ F4Us returning from Green left a 30 ft. boat burning and sinking by the stern at the NE corner of Taiof Island. From 12-15 uniformed Japs on Katitj Island escaped into the bush, which was well strafed.
SEARCHES FOR AUGUST 30.
Beefsteak searches. Sector SUGAR was forced back by weather. Sector TARE had 90% track and 85% cover with dissipating frontal activity running east west at 04 degrees north. Sectors UNCLE and VICTOR had 100% track and 90% cover. At 0945 LOVE sector UNCLE saw much debris including 1 white life preserver at 02-30 north 150-20 east. Sector VICTOR had 4 tenths cloud cover based at 2000 feet. Sector UNCLE reported a frontal area from base to 00-10 south and from the equator to 04 north disappearing on return trip.
Local searches were negative.
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