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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 5, 2021 10:34:50 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 4 October 1944.
The main attack yesterday was directed against reported Nip bivouac areas at Waitavalo and Kanakdran Plantations. Twenty-two Piva SBDs and 11 F4Us hit Waitavalo, and 24 Torokina F4Us hit Kanakdran, with a total of 24 tons of bombs. Except for smoke, results were obscured. Five out of six Gazelle Peninsula sweeps - the largest number for several days - got through to their assigned areas, and Green F4Us were able to maintain their patrols over Rabaul throughout the morning.
Enemy concentrations in the Shortland area were attacked from Torokina and Munda, and 24 Green planes - F4Us, PBJs and SBDs - were out over New Ireland. Emirau planes alone were grounded, with the exception of the PV searches. One PBJ was apparently hit by A/A over New Ireland and water-landed off Namatanai, the crew being picked up by a PT boat.
Green F4Us reported destroying a single-engine plane on a taxiway off Vunakanau strip. The plane, they said, was not there the previous day, and it does not appear in recent photographs in the position described. The dispatch did not report the condition of the plane.
NEW BRITAIN
(89 sorties - 32 tons)
Waitavalo and Kanakdran: The attack on reported Nip bivouac areas in Waitavalo and Kanakdran Plantations, which has been projected for some days, was accomplished yesterday. Waitavalo was hit by 22 Piva SBDs and 11 Piva F4Us, and Kanakdran by 24 Torokina F4Us.
The two flights of SBDs reported good coverage from the E. end of Waitavalo Plantation through the suspected bivouac area to the edge of Tol Plantation. No results of the bombing were observed because of trees. One flight of SBDs reported that they could see no evidence of enmy activity. Moderate, inaccurate MG fire was encountered from the S. tip of Tol Plantation. Results of the F4Us bombing were also unobserved. Six SBDs strafed the area and put 50 rounds into an 80 ft. tower which they located in Tol Plantation.
Seventeen half tonners were put into the Kanakdran target area, which was then strafed by the F4Us in line abreast. They reported seeing a thin column of blue smoke 400 yds due E. of Kanakdran, and brown and black smoke rising to 200-300 ft. over Waitavalo.
The target and the surrounding area, the pilot's said, had an appearance of great activity. Many trees had been cut down and the undergrowth cleared. A number of large buildings at the mouth of the river looked like headquarters.
For the Record:
15 SBDs VMSB 133 0955 load 1x500 dr 15x500
2x100 30x100.
7 SBDs VMSB 236 1020 load 1x500 dr 6x500
2x250 13x250.
7 F4Us VMO 251 1025 load 1x1000 dr 7x1000.
4 F4Us VMF 212 1020 load 1x1000 dr 4x1000.
12 F4Us NZ 17 1048-1100 load 1x1000 dr 10x1000.
12 F4Us NZ 22 1025-1035 load 1x1000 dr 10x1000.
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(46 sorties-13 tons)
Shortland Concentrations: Enemy concentrations in the Kulitanai-Korovo-Faisi area (S.E. Shortland Island) were attacked by 16 Torokina F4Us carrying quarter-tonners.
Hits were observed on Kulitanai Point and near Korovo. Two fires were seen near Korovo ridge after the strike. Huts and beaches on the S. coast of Shortland were strafed.
Meagre (7-8 bursts), inaccurate heavy A/A was encountered from a known position on Poporang ridge. Six bursts of 40 mm were reported from the same position and from Korovo Point (half a mile inland in the center of the land area).
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 17 1425-36 load 1x500 dr 8x500.
8 F4Us NZ 22 1427-30 load 1x500 dr 8x500.
Bougainville Patrols were flown by Piva F4Us, one of these including the Able-Charlie search. The patrols killed two Nips out of 10 strafed near Kara. They strafed huts at Kara, Fauro Island, Numa Numa and Cape L'Averdy, and fired four huts at the mouth of the Kraiaowa river. The dawn and dusk patrols and the Torokina-Rabaul sweep were routine.
For the Record:
8 F4Us VMF 212(4) 0820-1805 Bougainville patrols (strafing).
VMF 223(4)
8 F4Us VMF 212 0605-0715 (4) Dawn and dusk patrols.
1720-1830 (4)
1 PV NZ 3 0830-1244 Torokina-Rabaul sweep.
NEW IRELAND
(26 sorties: 12 tons)
New Ireland Targets: A variety of targets in New Ireland were attacked by 15 F4Us, six PBJs and 3 SBDs from Green.
Dropping quarter-tonners, the F4Us reported a direct hit on the northernmost Belik Plantation bridge and damage to two huts at Kianbi Plantation. Many targets were strafed, including 20 white-shirted people who were seen running from Himau Plantation buildings as the planes approached.
The PBJs destroyed two or three 60 ft. buildings in the Muliama harbour area, damaged the Belik river bridge approach and reported a direct hit on two 80 ft. buildings in Dunup Plantation. Damage was done to buildings in the Chinese Plantation.
Intense, accurate 20 mm and MG fire was received from Halis Plantation, and one PBJ possibly because of a hit, water-landed two miles E. of Namatanai. The sea was too rough for Dumbo to land.
SEARCHES FOR 3 OCTOBER
Beefsteak and Brewer searches were negative. All Baker 31 searches went full distance except 7 Baker with 90 percent. Coverages were 5 and 8 Baker 100 percent, 6 Baker 85 percent, and 7 Baker 80 percent. Brewer Baker 32 sectors 1-4 reported track and cover, respectively: 383 and 90, 400 and 90, 400 and 100, 320 and 75. Weather was good in Brewer sectors, but Beefsteak encountered a front extending East-West at 01-30 N, 150-00 E.
Three Catalinas from Green cooperating with PT boats dropped a total of 3 and 1/2 tons, during the night of 2/3 October. Tarbaby bombed Sicacui Pltn with unobserved results and started several small fires on Roland Young Pltn. Sambo bombed Choiseul Bay area and a beached barge at Koudaranimboko Island with negative results. Charcoal strafed and dropped bombs and flares on buildings at Hunter Point, Cape Natat, Cape Obe and Maton Pltn with unobserved results.
Meagre inaccurate MG fire was received from Maton Pltn and some accurate 20 mm fire from Sicacui Pltn.
For the Record:
3 PBY5A (VP-44) Green: dr 9x500 G.P. 3x500 Incend. 60x20 Frag.
4 PBY from FAW-10 (Admiralties) 400 mile sector searches
4 PVs from VB-148 (Emirau)
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 5, 2021 11:06:13 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 5 October 1944.
Two hundred and seventy-nine sorties were flown by ComAirNorSols planes yesterday in their most active day for several weeks. The main target was the Ralum supply area, at the north of Gazelle peninsula, which was attacked by 61 Piva and Torokina planes carrying 25 tone of bombs. New Ireland targets also came in for a good deal of attention, no fewer than 112 sorties being flown in that area from Green and Emirau. Torokina and Munda planes again hit the Shortland-Fauro area, where the Nips appear to have a number of concentrations.
NEW BRITAIN
(106 sorties - 40 1/2 tons)
Ralum Supply Area: The Nip supply area at Ralum was the main target yesterday. Twenty-six Piva SBDs and 35 Torokina and Piva F4Us took off for the target and dropped 25 tons of of bombs.
Fourteen SBDs of VMSB 133, which were first over the target, reported as confirmed the destruction of one heavy gun position approximately 175 degrees 1600 yards from the main Ralum pier; and the destruction of a pier and of four huts. They claimed to have destroyed or damaged 3 more huts and one warehouse -like building, all in the Ralum area. The only result observed by the second flight of SBDs (VMSB 236) was a confirmed damaging hit on a possible warehouse. Two pilots reported alternating flashes from one mile NE of the target area; but no bursts or puffs were seen.
The first two flights of F4Us (VMF 223 and NZ 22) reported good coverage of the target area with their half-tonners. VMF 223 pilots reported 4 or 5 flashes of inaccurate heavy fire from a known position one mile N of Tobera.
NZ 17 were unable to hit the target because of the movement of other aircraft and released on a rubber plantation 700 yards to the south, scoring nine hits in the area. One of their bombs was dropped on three medium A/A guns in a clearing at Cape St. George. One position was reported destroyed, and all three guns ceased firing. No A/A was encountered in the Ralum area except for three white puffs of possible 20 or 40 MM which appeared to orginate at 50 yards inland from the base of Ralum pier.
Photographs of the actual target area (Ralum 45), taken after the strike, showed one building destroyed.
For the Record:
14 SBDs VMSB 133 0912 load 1x500 dr. 13x500 fr. 1500'
2x100 26x100
12 SBDs VMSB 236 0915 " 1x500 " 12x500
2x250(2) 4x250
2x100(10) 20x100
11 F4Us VMF 223 0925 " 1x1000 dr. 11x1000 fr. 3500'
12 F4Us NZ 22 0946 " 1x1000 " 10x1000 " 4000'
12 F4Us NZ 17 0945-0950 " 1x1000 " 11x1000 " 4000'
NEW IRELAND
(112 sorties - 50 tons)
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(50 sorties - 11 tons)
Shortland - Fauro Area: Targets on Fauro and in the Shortland Island area were again attacked by Torokina and Munda planes.
Concentrating on Faisi, 16 F4Us reported 13 hits with quarter-tonners in the target area. Five flashes of heavy A/A were seen in a known position on Poporang; light muzzle flashes near the
S tip of Falsi; and 2 inaccurate tracers at 4000 feet from Ballale.
Six Munda SBDs reported a damaging hit on a gun position on the E bank of Sinasora Bay, Fauro Island, and three area hits. Four Munda PBJs dropped 15 quarter-tonners on huts on Taukuna and Farumo Islands and on Harapa, Saenai Point, Kingeriai Point, and Lorau. Bomb hits were observed among huts at Lorau and white smoke near Farumo. A small explosion resulted from strafing at Saenai.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 22 1345-45 load 1x500 dr. 6x500 fr. 2500'
8 F4Us NZ 17 1315-17 " 1x500 " 7x500 " 4-5000'
6 SBDs VMSB 241 0940 " 1x500 " 5x500
2x250 10x250
4 PBJs VMB 413 1035 " 4x500 " 15x500
Bougainville Patrols: Six two-plane Bougainville patrols, (including the Able-Charlie search) were flown by VMF 212 and VMO 251. They strafed 11 Nips with unobserved results; smoked a hut at Luluai Point and another at Kieta; and fired two huts at the mouth of the Tauraua river. The dawn and dusk patrols, and the Torokina-Rabaul sweep were negative.
For the Record:
12 F4Us VMF 212 (6) 0615-1745 Bougainville patrols - strafing.
VMO 251 (6)
8 F4Us VMF 212 0605-0710 (4) Dawn and dusk patrols.
1713-1830 (4)
1 PV NZ 3 0910-1130 Torokina-Rabaul.
SEARCHES FOR 4 OCTOBER
Beefsteak and Brewer 400 mile searches were negative in all sectors. Baker 31 searches were reported 100 percent track and cover. Brewer, Baker 32 searches, sectors 1 to 4, went the full distance averaging coverage of 95 percent. Weather was reported good to very good.
Three Cats cooperating with PT boats in their assigned sectors used three and one half tons on targets of opportunity, during the night of 3/4 October. Tarbaby bombed a gun position 75 yards inland between Namatanai and Cape Namaroda. Charcoal hit huts on Navwaum Pltn. and Tambaker Pt. and dropped three quarter-tonners on a loaded operating barge at Huru Pt. The bombs missed the target but the barge was beached and later destroyed by fire from PT's and gunboats. Sambo bombed huts at the mouth of Warrior River on Choiseul Island. Meagre inaccurate M/G fire was received from 3 positions at Cape Namaroda.
On October 3, Tarbaby orbited the downed PBJ crew off NE New Ireland until all were rescued by a Green PT boat.
For the Record:
3 PBYs (VP-44) Green: dr. 9x500 GP
3x500 Inst. 40x20 Frags.
4 PBYs (FAW010) Admiralties: 400 mile search sectors.
4 PBYs (VB-148) Emirau: 400 mile search sectors.
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Post by chinapilot on Mar 5, 2021 15:30:35 GMT 12
Great stuff - thanks aircraftclocks.
The PBJ shot down just off Namatanai and the F4U further up the coast a few weeks before are interesting and probably relatively unknown to researchers.
Photos are mentioned - Are there any clear photos in these reels or are they much like the previous ones which didn't reproduce very well?
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 6, 2021 0:55:22 GMT 12
Chinapilot
There are no photos at all. There are some maps which are outlines and indications of where plantations and airstrips are. I suggest finding records of the 17th photo squadron would help with that question of photos.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 6, 2021 11:48:49 GMT 12
WEEKLY REPORT OF AIRCRAFT AND PILOT AVAILABILITY FOR WEEK ENDING TUESDAY, 3 OCTOBER, 1944.
UNITS AND LOCATIONS TYPE AND NO. OF PLANES AVAIL. PLANES OPERATIONAL PILOTS AVAIL. GROUND SUPPORT UNIT
ADMIRALTIES
*VF-79 (RAAF) 14 SPIT 7 13 VF-79
*VS-61 14 SBD 11 18 VS-61
*VPB-146 14 PV-1 13 43 VPB-146
*FAW-10 15 PBY-5 6 33 HEDRON 10
EMIRAU
VMF-115 19 F4U 18 41 VMF-115
VMF-211 22 F4U-1D 22 33 VMF-211
VMF-313 19 F4U 19 36 VMF-313
VMSB-142 22 SBD-6 22 20 VMSB-142
VMSB-243 22 SBD-5 21 21 VMSB-243
VMD-254 8 PB4Y-1P 8 21 VMD-254
VMB-433 11 PBJ-1D 11 53 VMB-433
VMB-443 11 PBJ-1D 11 40 VMB-443
VPB-148 15 PV-1 15 36 PATSU 1-9
GREEN
VMF-218 19 F4U 19 34 VMF-218
VMF-222 22 F4U 22 39 VMF-222
VMSB-244 22 SBD-5 22 34 VMSB-244
VMSB-341 22 SBD-6 22 36 VMSB-341
VMB-423 11 PBJ-1D 11 42 VMB-423
VPB-44 15 PBY-5A 15 50 PATSU 1-11
VPB-52 12 PBY-5 8 51 PATSU 1-11
BOUGAINVILLE
VMO-251 18 F4U 18 38 VMO-251
VMF-212 22 F4U 22 53 VMF-212
VMF-223 21 F4U 21 39 VMF-223
VMSB-133 22 SBD-6 22 31 VMSB-133
VMSB-236 22 SBD-5 22 15 VMSB-236
VMR-152 18 R4D-5 14 58 VMR-152
VMR-153 16 R4D-5 14 58 VMR-153
17TH PHOTO 5 F5A 5 9 17TH PHOTO
1 RA-24B 1
NZ-3 17 PV-1 2 16 NZ #10 S.U.
NZ-17 18 F4U 18 21 NZ #2 S.U.
NZ-22 18 F4U-1 17 26 NZ #4 S.U.
MUNDA
VMSB-241 21 SBD-5 21 13 VMSB-241
VMB-413 12 PBJ-1D 11 42 VMB-413
* Data taken from daily report of 3 October.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 6, 2021 12:10:36 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 6 October 1944.
Practically the full weight of yesterday's attacks was thrown against targets in the Rabaul area, which were hit by a total of 238 planes carrying 103 tons of bombs. All types of planes, including TDRs, participated. Photographs showed particularly good results in the Wunawutung area, where two MG positions and 13 buildings were destroyed; and in the Tobera supply area, where SBDs and F4Us knocked out 15 buildings. Four buildings were demolished in the Vulcan Crater barge area, and pilots claimed the destruction of an MG position here also. A/A fire was fairly constant, but only two planes were holed during the day, and those lightly.
The waist-gunner on a PBY returning to Green from the Bougainville-Choiseul area on the night of October 4/5 reported seeing an unidentified single engine plane, with "smooth undercarrige", leaving the clouds just south of Feni Island. The PBY turned, but the plane made a 180-degree turn into clouds and disappeared.
NEW BRITAIN
(238 sorties-103 tons)
TDR Strike on Keravia: Four TDR were expended yesterday in an attack on the caves along the shore of Keravia Bay.
One hit was reported in the vicinity of a cave mouth, and one miss immediately N. of Vulcan Crater. The other two TDRs were lost because of technical difficulties.
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(48 sorties-14 1/2 tons)
Bougainville Patrols: The first of four Bougainville patrols, flown by VMF 223 and VMF 212, strafed a 50 ft barge moored alongside three other barges in Tonolei harbour. The barge gave off heavy black smoke and then burst into flames, burning furiously. Another patrol 3 1/2 hours later reported that the barge was still burning, but that the other barges appeared to be derelicts.
A warehouse—described as well-filled—along the coast of Buka between Lemanmanu Mission and Cape Lemankoa was strafed by two flights of planes with unobserved results. Another flight reported moderate inaccurate MG fire from the inner harbour at Kieta.
The Torokina-Rabaul sweep was negative.
For the Record:
8 F4Us VMF 223(6) VMF 212(2) 0621-1410 Bougainville patrols. Strafing.
1 PV NZ 3 0750-1210 Torokina-Rabaul sweep.
Gomai Huts: Huts at Gomai (SW tip of Shorthand Island) were attacked by eight Torokina F4Us with two tons of bombs. Five quarter-tonners fell close to two groups each of five huts, damaging an undetermined number. Two move quarter-tonners destroyed two new huts at Komaliai Point. The eighth bomb was dropped on huts at Halola, where the planes also strafed.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 17 1120 load 1x500 dr 8x500 fr 2000'.
Numa Numa Bivouac: The bivouac area at Numa Numa, which was heavily hit on October 2, was attacked again yesterday by eight Torokina F4Us carrying quarter-tonners.
The pilots reported five bombs well placed lenghtwise along the target area. A column of gray smoke rising to 300 feet was observed as the planes withdrew. Two strafing runs were made.
The flight leader declared that the whole area appeared to be active.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 22 1115-1125 load 1x500 dr 8x500 fr 4000'.
Hahela Mission: A Nips bivouac area at Hahela (S. Buka) was the target for 23 Torokina F4Us. They dropped 21 half-tonners in and near the target area, but results were unobserved. Pilots reported that their appeared to be little activity and that the roadways seemed overgrown.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 22 0910-0916 load 1x1000 dr 11x1000 fr 2500'.
11 F4Us NZ 17 - - - - - load 1x1000 dr 10x1000 fr 3000'.
NEW IRELAND
(16 sorties-4 tons)
SEARCHES FOR 5 OCTOBER
Brewer and Beefsteak 400 mile searches were negative in all sectors. Brewer, Baker 32 searches, sectors 1 to 4, went the full distance averaging coverage of 95 percent. Baker 31 searches were full track and cover. Weather was reported excellent.
Three PBY's operating in cooperation with PT boats bombed targets in their assigned areas on the night of 4/5 October. Sambo dropped bombs and flares on Cape Alexander, the Warrior River area and Siposia Island with results unobserved. Tarbaby hit targets on Hunter, Huru, and Sperber Points while Charcoal bombed a possible bivouac area 1 mile S of Medina Pltn and dropped incendiaries, frags and flares in the vicinity of Bulu Pltn. Enemy activities and shipping count in all sectors were negative, however, enroute to base, Charcoal observed an unidentified single-engine plane (with smoothe undercarriage) come out of the clouds south of Feni Island. Charcoal turned but bogey made a 180 degree turn into the clouds and disappeared.
For the Record:
4 PBY's (FAW-10) Admiralties: 400 mile search sector.
4 PV's (VB-148) Emirau: 400 mile search sector.
3 PBY's (VP-44) Green: dr. 9x500 GP
3x500 Incend.
43x20 Frag.
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Post by davidd on Mar 7, 2021 11:04:32 GMT 12
If forumites think that the RNZAF representation in the above excellent summary (dated week ending 3rd October 1944) seems pretty light, then they would be right, but there is a (rather involved) explanation.
During October, 1944, the RNZAF finally achieved its planned expansion to 20 active squadrons (12 of Corsairs, 6 of Venturas, and 2 of Catalinas). However the 12th Corsair squadron (No. 25) was only formed at Ardmore on 30th October, so had to carry out its training programme which was not completed till 7th December; it departed for overseas on its first tour on the 10th of month, to Espiritu Santo. The existing eleven Corsair squadrons were located as follows:
At Ardmore, NZ (working up, etc): No. 14 (pilots on emb leave from 12th, 13th October, due to depart for rear area 27th, delayed till 31st October); No. 19 (due to depart for rear area 25th October); No. 24 (due to depart for rear area 29th October).
On disembarkation leave in New Zealand (following previous tour): No. 16, due to reform at Ardmore on 16th Oct; No. 21, also due to reform Ardmore 16th October.
At Pallikulo, New Hebrides: No. 15 (31 SU); No. 23 (25 SU), operational training.
At Henderson Field, Guadalcanal: No. 18 (30 SU); No. 20 (1 SU), also operational training.
At Torokina, Bougainville: No. 17 (2 SU), and No. 22 (4 SU), operations.
The 6th Ventura squadron (No. 8), formed at Whenuapai (Whenuapai Maintenance Wing) on 1st October, but its training programme was initially frustrated because of a distinct shortage of PV-1s, as "their aircraft" were still being used by another squadron at Whenuapai (No. 9), also working up for its next tour. The other PV-1-equipped squadrons were at Gisborne (No. 2, based on 11 SU, to depart for forward area in last week of month); at Nausori, Fiji (No. 4 Sqdn, 13 SU, still some Hudsons on strength, this squadron due to depart for forward area mid-November); at Henderson Field, Guadalcanal (No. 1 Sqdn, 12 SU, operational training, also local anti-sub defence); and at Piva Uncle, Bougainville (No. 3 Sqdn, 10 SU), nominally operational. Latter was still preparing to move forward to Emirau at this point, so was barely operational; nine of their PV-1s were finally ferried north on the 10th October, but weather turned them back. They set off again following day, eight arrived but one had to return to Piva with engine trouble. The commander of the NORSOLS strike force required that 2 of their PV-1s be retained at Piva, along with three crews and an operations officer, to maintain the Torokina - Rabaul sweeps, until rest of squadron was properly established at Emirau. Four other PV-1s remained at Piva awaiting arrival of new engines.
The two RNZAF Catalina squadrons were both located administratively in the rear area (New Hebrides, and Solomons), at Segond Channel (Espiritu Santo), No. 5 Sqdn, and at Halavo Bay (Florida Island, just to north of Guadalcanal), No. 6 Sqdn. As such they were mainly used for anti-sub patrols, Dumbo duty, and for supplying remote radar stations on islands with no airfields, so cannot undertake any other type of offensive operations as out of range of Japanese-occupied islands. Later in war detached flights of these aircraft operated from more-forward bases.
Thus the only NZ Squadrons to appear in the "forward" or operational area are those aircraft located at Bougainville (Corsairs at Torokina and Venturas at Piva North). Later in the month of October, the two Corsair squadrons at Torokina are moved to Piva North (but servicing area remains at Piva South), and 10 SU with its Venturas was soon to move far northward to Emirau, while three new SU's are being moved to the forward area directly from NZ during late October and early November. Also 4 SU to move to Los Negros in November at request of NORSOLS commander, to supply fighter cover for the large naval base located there. The new servicing units from NZ were 3 SU and 14 SU (to Green Island), and 5 SU (to Emirau), to give a greatly enhanced force of two PV-1 and four F4U squadrons "forward". By April of 1945 the four fighter SUs/Sqdns located at the "rear" bases in New Hebrides and Solomons were also moved forward into the operational area, to give eight squadrons on operations simultaneously. A thirteenth Corsair squadron (No. 26) was introduced into the mix in March 1945, but ultimately proved to be unnecessary, so only completed one operational tour before being disbanded in July. It was also decided by the American commanders that the RNZAF Ventura force should be gradually run down from March 1945 onwards, from six to just two squadrons by about July 1945, the last to survive being Nos. 2 and 4 Squadrons; the squadrons/SUs located at Nausori (Fiji) and Henderson Field (Guadalcanal) were by now considered unnecessary.
The logistics of constantly rotating these squadrons from New Zealand and through the island-based servicing units kept the RNZAF air transport system in a healthy state of activity until the end of the war. The local American commander would have been fully aware of the RNZAF's logistic problems, and would offer to assist if he had the means to do so. The location of all these aircraft/units/personnel was dictated by the theatre commander, so the New Zealand government really had no say at all as to where our aircraft ended up. However the US Navy's Chief of Naval Operations (Fleet Admiral Ernest J King, famously an "Anglophobe" - never forgave the UK for trying to keep the new American colonies "English"!) keenly oversaw all these movements and plans, and was adamant that "the British" (New Zealand was but a British colony in his eyes) had no business being located on any territory in the vast Pacific that were not formerly British territory, as were Fiji, Gilbert & Ellice Islands, British Solomon Islands, PNG, etc., and that policy was continued to end of the war. However, they had to make an exception when things got a bit out of hand in the Philippines later in 1944, and the operational commanders were screaming out for additional aerodrome construction units; apparently the Australians were able to oblige, as they had the odd squadron in the forward area north of that continent, although NZ by this time would have been unable to supply any such equipment, as no such formed unit was available.
David D
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 7, 2021 13:32:49 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 7 October, 1944.
New Britain was again the main target yesterday, but weather reduced activity below the previous day's scale. The Vunakanau revetments were hit by only 61 of more than 100 planes scheduled, Piva SBDs and F4Us being forced to return to targets in their own ares. Nine guns were reported damaged at Vunakanau and five fires were started. Intense, inaccurate to accurate A/A of all calibres was encountered, and one of two SBDs damaged had to make a water-landing. The crew was rescued.
Torokina F4Us set out to harass the Nips in bivouac areas they have recently established at Milim, Wide Bay. The planes dropped 12 tons and thoroughly strafed their targets, but no results could be observed except two columns of smoke. Only the morning Gazelle sweeps and Rabaul patrols were flown before the weather closed down.
NEW BRITAIN
(110 sorties-49 tons)
Nips at Milim: The Milim area in Wide Bay, to which the Nips have recently returned, overland and by barge, in some strength, was attacked yesterday by 24 Torokina F4Us carrying 12 tons of bombs.
The first flight of 4 F4Us reported three hits in a 300-yard triangle enclosing their target area. They observed a column of gray smoke as they retired. Attacking nearly an hour later, eight more F4Us claimed good coverage with 5 hits in an adjacent area. A bomb to the east of the target raised a 500 ft. column of dense black smoke which lasted only about four minutes. The planes made two strafing runs across the target.
The other 12 planes hit areas S. of the Kiep Plantation-a reported concentration on the Mu river, and Mu village. Good coverage was reported, and the areas were strafed.
The last flight alone reported A/A—white muzzle flashes from a gun position on the coast N. of Mu river mouth.
For the Record:
4 F4Us NZ 22 1010-1020 load 1x1000 dr 4x1000 fr 2500'.
8 F4Us NZ 22 1110-1125 load 1x1000 dr 8x1000 fr 4000'.
12 F4Us NZ 17 1120-1130 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000 fr 3000'.
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(65 sorties-18 tons)
Numa Numa Bivouac: Weathered out from New Britain, where they were scheduled to hit the revetments at Vunakanau, 30 Piva SBDs and 16 F4Us attacked targets in N. Bougainville and Buka, notably the Numa bivouac area.
Seventeen tons were dropped on Numa Numa by 16 F4Us and 15 SBDs. They claimed good coverage of the area, but jungle and smoke obscure results.
The remaining 15 SBDs destroyed several huts and one house at Gagan, or a nearby village, in central Buka, and also attacked the Tarlena supply area and targets in the vicinity.
SEARCHES FOR 6 OCTOBER
Beefsteak 400 mile searches were negative. Baker 31, sectors 5 and 6 were reported 100 percent track and 40 percent cover with sector. 8, 100 percent track and 95 percent cover. Sector 7 Baker 31 was unreported.
Brewer 400 mile searches, sectors 1 to 4 were all negative with an average of 98 percent track and 92 percent cover. Weather was good in all sectors.
Bad weather restricted the activities of Black Cats cooperating with PT boats on the night of 5/6 October. Charcoal dropped flares and bombs on Roland Young Plantation with unobserved results while Tarbaby was grounded and Sambo forced back by weather.
6 SBDs from Admiralties searches for a reported enemy submarine near Seeadler Harbour from 1720 till dark, October 6 with negative results.
For the Record:
2 PBY's (VP-44) Green dr 3x500 GP
1x500 Incend.
20x20 Frag.
4 PVs (VB-148) Emirau
2 PVs (VB-146) Admiralties 400 mile sector searches.
2 PBYs (FAW-10) Admiralties
6 SBDs Admiralties Anti-Sub patrol.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 7, 2021 14:15:13 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 8 October, 1944.
The greatest activity yesterday was over New Ireland, where 100 planes from Green and Emirau dropped 46 tons of bombs on bridges, buildings, bivouac areas and roads. The Nips on New Britain were again protected by the weather, which caused cancellation of the projected strike on Wide Bay and reduced the scale of the Kanakdran strike. Seventy sorties, however, were carried out in the New Britain area, and 30 tons of bombs were dropped. On Bougainville the main attacks were made in the north and in the south—against Hahela and Chabai, and against the Shortland area.
Two PBJs over Kavieng in the early morning of October 7 sighted an unidentified plane with a large red light which attempted interception at 11,000 feet. An unidentified plane was last reported over Kavieng on the night of September 17/18, this report being made as a result of radar as well as visual contact.
NEW IRELAND
(100 sorties-46 tons)
NEW BRITAIN
(70 sorties-30 tons)
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(73 sorties-27 1\2 tons)
Shortland Area Again Hit: Weathered out from Wide Bay, Torokina F4Us again attacked the SE Shortland area—Kulitanai, Falsi and Poporang.
The first flight of 12 F4Us dropped four bombs on the N. ridge on Poporang Island (all were reported as falling within 250-300 yds. of known A/A positions), and the others on Korovo Peninsula, Morgu-siai Island and the W. coast of Poporang. Seven to eight accurate black bursts from the Poporang guns were seen at 4000 ft, and one plane received superficial damage. Tracers were seen from among coconut trees in the middle of Falsi Island.
The second flight hit the S. tip of Falsi and Kulitanai. A fire was started half way down the Kulitanai Peninsula. Moderate, inaccurate fire was received from auto and heavy known positions on Poporang and Kulitanai. Black puffs and tracer were seen at 3500-5000 feet.
At 0755 on bearing 290 degrees 90 nautical miles from base the flight leader saw a spout of water rising to 300-400 feet. An oil slick was seen after the spout subsided.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 17 0855-0900 load 1x1000 dr 11x1000 fr 4000'.
12 F4Us NZ 22 0902-0906 load 1x1000 dr 11x1000 fr 2500'. One plane damaged.
Hahela and Chabai: Buildings at Hahela (S. Buka) were hit by 16 Torokina F4Us, and the 14 SBDs which could not reach Kanakdran concentrated on the Chabai area (N. Bougainville). The first flight of F4Us over Hahela reported all bombs in the target area, but no observed results. The second flight claimed 6 area hits and saw four or five huts collapse after the second bomb. The whole area was covered with smoke as they retired. The SBDs put the majority of their bombs on gardens and clearings within a one mile radius of Chabai. All results were unobserved.
For the Record:
16 F4Us NZ 17(8) 1110-1120 load 1x1000 dr 16x1000 fr 4000'.
NZ 22(8) 1150-1205
14 SBDs VMSB 236 0935 load 1x500 dr 14x500
2x100 28x100 fr 1000'.
Bougainville Patrols: Four patrols of Bougainville were carried out, and, in addition, two of the Gazelle Peninsula sweeps, weathered out, hit targets in Bougainville and Buka.
The first three Bougainville patrols were uneventful; the fourth (1150-1400) encountered 6 to 10 short, inaccurate bursts from an MG south of Koromira Mission.
Of the two flights redirected from New Britain, one dropped its bombs on huts at Cape Hatsia, with unobserved results, and encountered MG fire, accurate at 1000 feet for 10 seconds, from Erventa and Popotala Islands. The other flight destroyed one hut of a group of 8 to 10 at Butchkombo, south of Tinputs, and scored a hit on possible caves along a creek bank S of Tinputs.
The dawn patrol and the Torokina-Rabaul sweep were negative. The dusk patrol and two of the Bougainville patrols were cancelled on account of weather.
The FMAW TBFs dropped their bombs on Mobina bridge and its approaches. The road approaches were hit.
For the Record:
8 F4Us VMF 212 0615-1400 Bougainville patrols. Strafing.
8 F4Us VMO 251 1210-1435 load 1x500 dr. 8x500. Dawn patrol.
1 PV NZ 3 0700-1015 Torokina-Rabaul sweep.
2 TBFs FMAW 1030-1100(1) load 12x100(1) dr. 8x250
1016-1140(1) 8x250(1) 11x100
3x100
SEARCHES FOR 7 OCTOBER
Beefsteak and Brewer 400 mile searches were negative. Beefsteak, Baker 31 searches were 100 percent track and cover with weather reported excellent in all sectors except in sector 5 Baker 31 a front was encountered at 01 degrees north 149 degrees east. Brewer searches averaged 95 percent track and 90 percent cover with weather good in all sectors.
Admiralties special searches for a P-38 lost south of Los Negros and for the enemy submarine contact at the entrance to Soeadler harbor were all negative.
Eight PBJs and 2 PV's from Emirau searched for a Life Raft and possible survivors which was sighted at 1600 yesterday at 150° 31' East 00° 06' South. The raft was twice sighted at 150° 26' East 00° 06' South but contact was lost and searches finally negative.
During the night of 6/7 October, Sambo, cooperating with PT's in area Queen-Oboe-Easy, dropped bombs and flares on the Kieta Barracks and airdrome area, Nukiki Village, Koromira Mission and Cape Alexander, all with unobserved results.
Tarbaby and Charcoal were forced to return to base without reaching the assigned areas due to bad weather and equipment failure.
For the Record:
4 PV's (VB-148) Emirau
2 PV's (VB-146) Admiralties 400 mile search sectors.
2 PBY's (FAW-10) Admiralties
8 PBJ's (VB-443) Emirau
2 PV's (VB-148) Emirau Special search.
3 PBY's (VPB-44) Green dr. 3x500 G.P.
1x500 Incend. 20x20 Frag.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 8, 2021 11:14:05 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 9 October 1944.
A projected heavy bomber strike from New Guinea caused a reduction in activity by ComAirNorSols planes over New Britain yesterday. Buildings end bivouac areas in New Ireland were hit by 69 planes from Emirau and Green which reported good results for the expenditure of 33 tons of bombs.
On Bougainville the two main strikes were directed against the Numa Numa and Baniu bivouac areas, but results in both cases were obscured by jungle. The patrols and sweeps in all areas yesterday were uneventful.
NEW IRELAND
(69 sorties-33 tons)
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(82 sorties-32 1/8 tons)
Numa Numa Bivouac: Twenty tons of bomba were dropped on reported Nip bivouac area and island headquarters at Numa Numa by 40 Toro-kin a F4Us. Good coverage of the target was reported, though results were obscured by jungle. Bombs were dropped in the bivouac area itself, and near suspected headquarters and officers' sleeping quarters. The whole area was thoroughly strafed. MG flashes were reported from the west edge of the plantation.
For the Record:
40 F4Us NZ 17 (20) 0940-1015(20) load 1x1000 dr 40x1000 fr 2500'-4000'.
NZ 20 (20) 1200-1225 (20)
NEW BRITAIN
(16 sorties-6 tons)
SEARCHES FOR 8 OCTOBER
Beefsteak, Baker 31 searches, were 100 percent track and cover and negative in all sectors. Weather was reported excellent with scattered cumulus clouds providing one tenth cover. Brewer, Baker 32 searches, with 100 percent track and an average of 87 percent cover, were all negative.
Searches for an enemy sub contact by Admiralties planes, patroling the entrance to Seeadler Harbour, were all negative on 8 October.
Eight PBJ's from Munda searching for a C-47 Scat plane observed an oil slick 200 yards square at 0915 L, position 08° 13' south 156° 14' east. Otherwise, this search was negative and other special search planes from Treasury and Munda were weathered out.
Charcoal operating in cooperation with Emirau PT's dropped bombs and flares on Lossuk Bay and Katu Pltn. Weather forced Sambo to return to base and Tarbaby returned due to communications failure. Sambo and Tarbaby's bomb load were jettisoned.
For the Record:
8 PBJs (VB-413) Munda Search for C-47.
2 PV's (VPB-134) Admiralties)
2 PBY's (FAW-10) Admiralties)—400 mile search sectors.
4 PV's (VPB-148) Emirau )
3 PBY's (VPB-44) Green: PT cooperation. dr 3x500 GP.
1x500 Incend. 20x20 Frag.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 9, 2021 10:34:04 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 10 October 1944.
Piva SBDs and F4Us hit Kanakdran yesterday, and photos confirmed the destruction of a motor bridge over the Melkone river and of two buildings in Kalai plantation. Emirau planes were grounded by weather for the greater part of the day, and the major strike from Green - against the Waitavalo bivouac area — had to be redirected to assorted targets in New Ireland. Torokina F4Us attacked the Numa Numa and Chabai bivouac and supply areas and Poporang ridge. Four Piva F4Us had a vain hunt for a reported Nip night fighter at Vunakanau.
Another TDR strike was made, this time against the Matupi Island bridge. The 3 TDRs which reached the target area all detonated on land, one possibly damaging a heavy A/A position, but the bridge was not hit.
NEW BRITAIN
(67 sorties - 24 tons)
Matupi Causeway Bridge: The bridge joining Matupi Island to the Rabaul mainland was the target for 4 TDRs operating from Green.
Three of the 4 TDRs reached the target area, and two of these were shot down while running against the bridge. Both detonated — one a quarter mile N of the causeway, the other in the saddle between the "Mother" and the south "Daughter". The third, which was possibly also shot down, was detonated on the NW slope of the "Mother" about 100 yards from heavy A/A positions.
Medium and heavy A/A were intense and accurate.
Search For Reported Night Fighter: The south-west revetments at Vunakanau was strafed by Piva F4Us which were looking for a twin-engine Nip night fighter in this area.
Two F4Us made the strafing fun while two others remained as high cover. No Nip plane was seen in the area.
The 4 F4Us subsequently strafed huts W of Mount Varzin and destroyed seven tents at Pau (Buoi) plantation. No A/A was encountered.
The SW revetment area at Vunakanau was also attacked by 4 F4Us which were were weathered out of Waitavalo. They dropped four quarter-tonners with unobserved results.
For the Record:
4 F4Us VMF 223 1205 6200 rds. .50 cal.
4 F4Us Green 0825-0925 load 1x500 dr. 4x500
Waitavalo Bivouac Area: Only 4 F4Us of a large projected strike from Green was able to reach their primary target, the Waitavalo bivouac area, on which they dropped quarter-tonners with unobserved results. Three strafing runs were also made on the target.
For the Record:
4 F4Us Green 0825-0925 load 1x500 dr. 4x500
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(59 sorties - 19 tons)
Numa Numa Bivouac: Twenty Torokina F4Us returned to the Numa Numa bivouac area and dropped another 10 tons on the target.
Results were again unobserved because of jungle, but a large column of blue smoke was seen rising to 500 feet as the first strike of 12 planes left the target. Good coverage was reported.
Photos taken after the strike showed the majority of bomb craters on the E side of the plantation area.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 22 0745-53 load 1x1000 dr, 12x1000 fr. 2500'
8 F4Us NZ 17 1150-58 " 1x1000 " 8x1000 " 4000'
Chabai Supply Dump: The Chabai supply dump was bombed and strafed by 8 Torokina F4Us, which concentrated on the SW end of the target. Results were unobserved.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 22 1045-50 load 1x1000 dr. 8x1000
Attack on Poporang: Weathered out from Milim Bay, 11 Torokina F4Us returned to the Poporang area with thousand pounders.
They dropped 9 bombs over the target from 5000 feet. Three fell in a tight group destroying two buildings on Poporang ridge. A fourth fell on Korovo ridge, with unobserved results.
Five to six bursts of inaccurate medium A/A were encountered at 4000-5000 feet from an undetermined position in the Poporang area.
For the Record:
11 F4Us NZ 17 ?05-0908 load 1x1000 dr. 9x1000
Bougainville Patrols: VMO 251 flew four Bougainville patrols as well as the dawn and dusk patrols (both of which were routine).
The 8 F4Us on Bougainville patrols strafed huts, gardens and reported concentration areas at Kaino, Kupei, Arawa Bay, Rorovana, Kahili, Koromira and Bonamu, where one hut was fired. They strafed a reported Nip observation post, consisting of a small lean-to with thatched roof, just below the crest of a hill west of Koromira mission.
The Torokina - Wide Bay sweep was negative.
Weathered out from Gazelle peninsula, three Piva F4Us dropped quarter-tonners on huts at Lemanmanu, on the NW tip of Buka.
For the Record:
8 F4Us VMO 251 0632-1014 Bougainville patrols. Strafing.
8 F4Us VMO 251 0602-0704(4) Dawn and Dusk patrols.
1739-1804(4)
1 PV NZ 3 0645-1030 Torokina - Wide Bay sweep.
3 F4Us Piva 1510-1545 load 1x500 dr. 3x500
NEW IRELAND
(70 sorties - 33 tons)
SEARCHES FOR 9 OCTOBER
Beefsteak, Baker 31 searches, were negative. Sectors 5,6, and 8 averaged 85 percent track and 65 percent cover while 7 Baker 31 was unable to search due to a heavy front over its entire sector. Heavy fronts wore reported in sector 5 at 02° north; in sector 6 at 03° North and sector 8 at 01° 30' North.
Brewer searches were also negative with an average of 90 percent track and 85 percent cover. Weather was reported good but with a front developing 100 miles from base.
A Treasury PBJ sent to investigate a rift and possible sighting of the C-47 Scat plane survivors reported negative. The raft was of a large cork variety not carried by aircraft.
6 SBDs from Piva flew special search sectors with reference point the Oil slick reported at 08 13' South 156° 16' East; 270° T, 13 miles from the center of Simbo Island. All searches were negative,
A Scat plane arriving at Munda at 1100L 9 October reported observing what was possibly the wreckage of the missing Scat plane at 07° 43' S 156° 40' E. on the West side of Vella La Vella Island approximately one quarter mile inland. A rescue party was dispatched from Munda to the location.
Charcoal cooperating with Emirau PT's bombed Lamernewi Pltn. and a bridge and gun position on Lossak Bay. Several fires were started at Lamernewi Pltn. and buildings probably damaged. Tarbaby dropped bombs and flares at Sum Sum and Adler Bay on the East coast of the Gazelle Peninsula while Sambo was grounded since Treasury boats did not operate.
For the Record:
6 SBDs (VMSB-236) Piva - Special Search Sector.
2 PBYs (VPB-44) Green: PT Cooperation dr. 6x500 G.P.
2x500 Incend.
23x20 Frags.
4 PVs (VPB-148) Emirau
4 PVs (FAW-10) Admiralties 400 mile search sectors.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 10, 2021 9:24:35 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 11 October 1944.
Yesterday's air activity centred over New Britain, where 170 NorSols planes dropped 76 tons of bombs. The main targets were the Ralum and Waitavalo bivouac and supply areas. Photos confirmed the destruction of 14 buildings at Ralum during an effective attack by 29 Piva SBDs and 36 Torokina and Piva F4Us. Moderate to intense, accurate to inaccurate A/A of all calibres was encountered from at least 8 positions. Results at Waitavalo, where 57 Green planes dropped 29 tons, were unobserved on account of jungle. Kanakdran also bombed, and the usual sweeps and patrols were maintained.
A 40 ft. Nip boat, which was reported entering the Toriu river on Monday night, was hunted down yesterday morning and sunk after two attacks by Piva F4Us.
NEW BRITAIN
(189 sorties-85 tons)
Ralum Supply Area: The Nip supply area at Ralum, last attacked on October 4, was the main target yesterday. It was hit by 29 SBDs and 36 F4Us with a total of 31 tons of bombs. Photos taken after the strike showed 13 buildings destroyed, one building burning, another small fire, and the wooded area of the target well hit with bombs.
The first flight of SBDs over the target (VMSB 236) reported effective bombing of the building area starting five fires with smoke rising to 300-500 feet. One large building was seen partially destroyed. The second flight (VMSB 133) claimed 5 huts possibly destroyed in the target area. The three flights of F4Us also reported good coverage and said the area was left a mass of flame and smoke. The majority of planes strafed the target.
A/A was encountered as follows:
(1) Five bursts of heavy at 7000 feet from Tobera.
(2) Meagre, inaccurate MG from the shore end of Ralum pier.
(3) Intense, inaccurate MG from 270 degrees 200 yds from the row of huts in Ralum 45.
(4) Intense, accurate MG to heavy fire at 3000-12000 ft from 225 degrees, 3000 yds from the pier.
(5) Moderate, accurate medium and heavy from Kenabot and Raniola Plantations.
(6) Fifteen to 20 puffs at 4000-6000 ft. possibly from known position Vunapope.
Two bombs which had hung up over Ralum were dropped on huts on Duke of York. One hut was possibly destroyed.
For the Record:
15 SBDs VMSB 236 0900 load 1x500 dr 13x500
2x250 28x250
14 SBDs VMSB 133 0903 load 1x500 dr 14x500.
2x250 28x250.
12 F4Us VMF 223 0907 load 1x1000 dr 10x1000.
12 F4Us NZ 17 0928 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000.
12 F4Us NZ 22 0930 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000.
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(37 sorties-9 tons)
Bougainville Patrols: Five two-plane Bougainville patrols, in addition to the regular dawn and dusk patrols and including the Able-Charlie search, were flown by VMF 212.
One of the patrols carried quarter-tonners which were dropped, unsuccessfully, on huts at Monoitu Mission. In strafing attacks the 10 F4Us set one hut afire at Lemanmanu, set afire and destroyed at least two huts north of Kara strip, killed some of 20 Nip troops caught in a garden at Maigi and killed or wounded some of 10-15 Nips at the mouth of the Puriata river. The last patrol was turned back by a front covering the entire S. of the Island.
The dawn and dusk and dusk patrols, and the Torokina-Rabaul sweep were negative.
For the Record:
10 F4Us VMF 212 0630-1450 load 1x500(2) dr 2x500.
8 F4Us VMF 212 0615-0710(4) Dawn and dusk patrols.
1730-1828(4)
1 PV NZ 3 0730-1132 Torokina-Rabaul sweep.
One SBD, returning early from the Ralum mission because of engine trouble, dropped its bombs on Tinputs harbour, possibly destroying an apparently serviceable barge.
For the Record:
1 SBD VMSB 133 load 1x500 dr 1x500
2x250 2x250.
Numa Numa Bivouac: Another 4 tons were dropped on the reported bivouac area at Numa Numa by 8 Torokina F4Us. Good coverage was reported.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 22 1220 load 1x1000 dr 8x1000.
Gomai Mission: The Gomai Mission area (SW Shortland Is.) was attacked by 8 Torokina F4Us carrying quarter-tonners. Results were unobserved.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 17 1210 load 1x1000 dr 6x1000.
NEW IRELAND
(14 sorties-3 tons)
SEARCHES FOR 10 OCTOBER
Brewer 400 mile search sectors were negative in all sectors with 100 percent track and an average of 90 percent cover. Beefsteak searches, 5 to 8 Baker 31, averaged 88 percent track and 85 percent cover. A front was reported at 02 degrees north extending from southeast to northwest, with scattered showers throughout the search sectors.
Tarbaby operating in cooperation with Green PT boats bombed and strafed Sperber Point starting a small fire. Weather forced Charcoal to land at Emirau and grounded Sambo.
For the Record:
4 PV's (VPB-146) Admiralties: 400 mile search sectors.
4 PV's (VPB-148) Emirau: 400 mile search sectors.
2 PBY's (VPB-44) Green: PT cooperation dr 3x500 G.P.
1x500 Incend. 8x20 Frags.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 10, 2021 9:52:53 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 12 October 1944.
A heavy front prevented NorSols planes from reaching New Britain yesterday, and not only the projected strikes but the daily sweeps and patrols of Gazelle peninsula had to be abandoned. New Ireland also had a relatively quiet day. What activity there was, was centred on Bougainville, where 67 planes hit assigned and opportunity targets with 17 tons of bombs.
Green planes were completely grounded by weather, and Emirau planes were able to carry out only the morning patrols of northern New Ireland.
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(67 sorties-17 tons)
Numa Numa Supply And Bivouac Area: With eight quarter-ton Napalm incendiaries and 16 half-tonners 24 Torokina F4Us returned yesterday to the Numa Numa supply and bivouac area.
They reported good coverage, but results were again unobserved except for two columns of smoke and fires which continued burning for some time after each strike. The area was thoroughly strafed.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 22 0808-0815 load 1x1000(8) dr 8x1000
1x500 (4) 4x500.
12 F4Us NZ 17 0845-0852 load 1x1000(8) dr 8x1000
1x500 (4) 4x500.
Miscellaneous Targets: Miscellaneous targets in Bougainville and Buka were bombed by 16 Torokina F4Us.
The planes destroyed one hut and damaged two at Tandeki; destroyed one hut at Cape Putputun; scored a direct hit with a 500 lb. Napalm incendiary on the centre hut of a row of eight huts at Lemanmanu, causing blue-gray smoke to rise to 1000 feet; dropped seven quarter-tonners on Kaino village with unobserved results; and possibly damaged huts at Gohi.
For the Record:
16 F4Us NZ 17(8) 1155 load 1x500 dr 16x500.
NZ 22(8) 1050
NEW IRELAND
(10 sorties-2 tons)
SEARCHES FOR 11 OCTOBER
Brewer searches were negative with full track and averaging in sectors 1, 2, 3, 4 Baker 32 a coverage of 94 percent. The weather was reported good with light squalls.
Beefsteak searches were negative with full track and averaging in sectors 5, 6, 7, 8 Baker 31 a coverage of 98 percent. Weather was reported good in sectors 7 and 8 with 6 Baker 31 encountering heavy thunder showers locally and scattered to the north, while 5 Baker 31 found a moderate front at the Equator.
For the Record:
2 PV-1 (VPB-146) Admiralties 400 mile search sectors.
2 PBY5 (FAW-10) Admiralties 400 mile search sectors.
4 PV-1 (VPB-148) Emirau 400 mile search sectors.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 11, 2021 10:33:21 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 13 October, 1944.
Bougainville was again the centre of activity for NorSols planes yesterday. Ninety-four sorties were flown in this area and 28 tons of bombs were dropped—mostly on Maliai and Poporang, in the SE Shortland region, which were attacked by Piva SBDs and Piva and Torokina F4Us. An FMAW TBF destroyed an apparent twin-mount 40 mm gun at Mission Point.
Emirau planes had the day free for training, and the Green command concentrated on targets in the southern half of New Ireland, where 42 planes—SBDs, F4Us and PBJs—dropped a total of 21 tons. Because of projected bomber strikes from New Guinea, only the afternoon sweeps and patrols were flown in the New Britain area.
BOUGAINVILLE
(94 sorties-28 tons)
Maliai and Poporang: Maliai, at the eastern end of Morgusiai Island, was the target for 27 SBDs and 6 F4Us from Piva, while 24 Torokina F4Us returned to Poporang ridge.
The first flight of SBDs to hit Maliai village (VMSB 133) reported the destruction of two huts and the possible destruction of two more. All bombs dropped appeared to hit the village area, and fires and dark smoke were seen as the planes retired. The second flight (VMSB 236) scored confirmed damaging hits on two houses, and good coverage of the south part of the village.
Two gunners reported possible light A/A from a position north of Maliai.
The SBDs were followed on to the target by 6 F4Us of VMF 212 which dropped 5 half-tonners (three of these overshooting into the water) and strafed the area with 2400 rounds of .50 cal.
Two flights each of 12 F4Us (NZ 17 and NZ 22) dropped 20 half-tonners and 4 Napalm quarter-tonners on buildings and gun postions at Poporang. One half-tonner was a direct hit or very near miss on a close group of two or three buildings, and debris was seen in the air. A hut was demolished, and a number of bombs landed close to gun positions. Coverage by both flights was reported good.
Moderate, inaccurate fire was received from known medium and heavy positions on Poporang, and from a heavy gun on Kulitanai Point. The first flight reported about 11 bursts of heavy calibre at from 2000 to 4000 feet, and this fire was maintained as the second flight came in on the target.
Photographs taken during the Maliai strike showed 4 near misses on one large hut at the N. end of Maliai. The hut was still standing but was possibly damaged. Photographs taken after the strike at Poporang showed one hut demolished but no near hits were to be seen on A/A positions.
For the Record:
27 SBDs VMSB 133(12) 0900 load 1x500 dr 24x500
VMSB 236 (15) 0910 2x250 46x250.
24 F4Us NZ 17(12) 0840 load 1x1000 (20) dr 18x1000
NZ 22(12) 0848 1x500 (4) incend. 4x500.
6 F4Us VMF 212 0915 load 1x1000 dr 2x1000.
Kaino and Mission Point Guns: Kaino village was attacked by 8 Torokina F4Us carrying quarter-ton Napalm incendiaries. No results were observed other than smoke.
Another flight of 8 F4Us was weathered out of Kupei village and hit a small village west of Arawa Plantation. Their bombs—Napalm incendiaries—overshot the target by about 20 yards.
A TBF and a TBM, both from FMAW, missed the gun positions reported at Mission Point but damaged a camouflaged house 100 yards north of the guns. They strafed around Chinatown (where they received meagre, inaccurate MG fire), and also dropped 10,000 leaflets.
Their sightings included what may be a new volcanic fissure in the Mount Taroka range in the centre of southern Bougainville. One of the pilots reported seeing a fissure in the mountainside, with high clouds of steam rising from a nearby stream as though lava was flowing into it.
In a later attack, another TBF destroyed the apparent twin mount 40 mm gun at Mission Point by a direct hit with a quarter-tonner. A number of sightings were made, at low altitude, of other probable gun positions near Cape Friendship and Moila Point.
For the Record:
16 F4Us NZ 17(8) 1120 load 1x500 (incend.) dr 16x500.
NZ 22(8)
2 TBF(M) FMAW 0925-1135 load 4x250 dr 4x250
8x100 9x100.
1 TBF FMAW 1415-1515 load 4x500 dr 2x500.
NEW BRITAIN
(20 sorties-6 tons)
NEW IRELAND
(54 sorties-24 tons)
SEARCHES FOR 12 OCTOBER
Beefsteak searches 5, 6, 7, 8 Baker 31 were negative with full track and cover. Weather was excellent except for a hazy 8 tenths cloud cover out to 50 miles north of base.
Brewer searches 1, 2, 3, 4 Baker 32 were negative will full track and averaging 95 percent cover. Weather was reported good to excellent.
Tarbaby cooperating with Green PT's which reported negative, dropped its bombs and flares on Ulaputur and Matakan Plantations, and Huru and Tambakar Points, area Uncle, SW New Ireland. Charcoal dropped its bombs and flares in the vicinity of Lamerneui, area Foyle, and Lossuk Bay, area Dublin, with 3x500 GP on Lossuk being duds. Otherwise results were unobserved.
For the Record:
4 PV-1 (VPB-146) Admiralties 400 mile search sectors.
4 PV-1 (VPB-148) Emirau 400 mile search sectors.
2 PBY5A (VPB-44) Green—PT cooperation:
Tarbaby, 2152-0215) dr 6x500 GP Inst.
) 2x500 Incend.
Charcoal 0100-0355) 4x20 Frags.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 11, 2021 10:52:57 GMT 12
WEEKLY REPORT OF AIRCRAFT AND PILOT AVAILABILITY FOR WEEK ENDING TUESDAY, 10 OCTOBER, 1944.
UNITS AND LOCATIONS TYPE AND NO. OF PLANES AVAIL. PLANES OPERATIONAL PLOTS AVAIL. GROUND SUPPORT UNIT
ADMIRALTIES
VF-79 (RAAF) 14 SPIT 10 15 VF-79
VS-61 14 SBD-5 14 18 VS-61
VPB-146 14 PV-1 13 43 VPB-146
FAW-10 15 PBY-5 13 27 HEDRON 10
EMIRAU
VMF-115 20 F4U 19 26 VMF-115
VMF-211 22 F4U-1D 22 45 VMF-211
VMF-313 22 F4U 22 38 VMF-313
VMSB-142 20 SBD-6 20 40 VMSB-142
VMSB-243 22 SBD-5 21 40 VMSB-243
*VMD-254 0 0 11 VMD-254
VMB-433 11 PBJ-1D 11 44 VMB-433
VMB-443 11 PBJ-1D 11 45 VMB-443
VPB-148 14 PV-1 14 36 PATSU 1-9
NZ- 3 17 PV-1 10 16 NZ #10 S.U.
GREEN
VMF-218 20 F4U 20 32 VMF-218
VMF-222 19 F4U 19 39 VMF-222
VMSB-244 21 SBD-5 21 28 VMSB-244
VMSB-341 22 SBD-6 22 37 VMSB-341
VMB-423 10 PBJ-1D 10 40 VMB-423
VPB-44 15 PBY-5A 15 56 PATSU 1-11
VPB-52 15 PBY-5 11 51 PATSU 1-11
BOUGAINVILLE
VMO-251 21 F4U 21 39 VMO-251
VMF-212 22 F4U 22 44 VMF-212
VMF-223 22 F4U 20 30 VMF-223
VMSB-133 22 SBD-6 20 32 VMSB-133
VMSB-236 22 SBD-5 22 47 VMSB-236
VMR-152 18 R4D-5 15 58 VMR-152
VMR-153 14 R4D-5 12 58 VMR-153
17TH PHOTO 5 F5A 5 9 17TH PHOTO
1 RA-24B 1
NZ-17 18 F4U-1 18 23 NZ #2 S.U.
NZ-22 18 F4U-1 17 26 NZ #4 S.U.
VMSB-241 21 SBD-5 21 41 VMSB-241
VMB-413 12 PBJ-1D 12 42 VMB-413
* Awaiting transportation to U.S.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 11, 2021 11:05:32 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 14 October 1944.
The weather again threw a protective mantle around New Britain yesterday, and all projected strikes and patrols in that area had to be abandoned. North New Ireland was the centre of the day's activity. Emirau F4Us flew 60 sorties, and dropped 25 tons of bombs on plantation areas and villages and on the reported caves at Cape Siwusat. Green planes were grounded throughout the day by weather.
On Bougainville the main strike was directed against the Numa Numa bivouac and supply area, which was hit by 20 planes with eight tons. Weather reduced the patrols to three, and these were uneventful.
NEW IRELAND
(60 sorties-25 tons)
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(47 sorties-14 tons)
NEW BRITAIN
(1 sortie-3/4 ton)
SEARCHES FOR 13 OCTOBER
Beefsteak searches were negative with full track and cover. Sectors 5, 6, 7 Baker 31 reported ceiling and visibility unlimited; sector 5 with 1 tenth cloud cover to 1500 feet, sector 7 encountering a weak front at 05 N 153 E, and sector 8 meeting a mild front running N-S at 02-03 N 152 E.
Brewer searches were negative averaging 380 miles out and 87 percent cover. Weather reported excellent except for bad front encountered by sectors 3 and 4 Baker 32 at 360 miles from base.
Sambo was weathered out. Charcoal was inoperative because of the Emirau PT's being weathered out. Charcoal cooperated with Green PT's in disabling a 85 foot barge as described in the paragraph on Naval activity.
For the Record:
4 PBY5 (FAW-10) Admiralties 400 mile search sectors.
4 PV-1 (VPB-148) Emirau 400 mile search sectors (0645-1245).
2 PBY5A (VPB-44) Green PT Cooperation 2125-0230 dr 3x500 GP Inst.
1x500 Incend.
20x20 Frag.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 12, 2021 10:55:46 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 15 October 1944.
Green planes were grounded by weather yesterday, and as Piva planes were scheduled for training, activity in the area was again much reduced. F4Us and SBDs from Emirau made 42 sorties over New Ireland and dropped 17 1/2 tons on bridges, buildings and plantation bivouac areas. On Bougainville the main targets were Uguimo and Kupei, but bombing results could not be observed in either case. By carrying quarter-tonners, pilots of VMF 223 made the Bougainville patrols more productive than they have been recently.
The Gazelle peninsula sweeps were also more eventful than usual, and for the first time in more than a week all six sweeps were flown.
NEW IRELAND
(42 sorties - 17 1/2 tons)
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(39 sorties-11 tons)
Good Coverage of Uguimo: The Uguimo supply area, SW of Kahili, where there have been signs of recent activity by the Nips, was attacked by 12 Torokina F4Us with 6 tons of bombs.
The planes reported one direct hit on the transport area and seven direct hits on the target with good coverage.
One plane observed an inaccurate black puff at 7000 feet. Two trails of smoke, similar to the trails left by burned-out pyrotechnics, were reported from the Kahili Maru area. The target, pilots said, appeared inactive. A thick haze prevented damage assessment by photographs, but a number of huts were shown destroyed.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 22 0830 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000 fr 3000'.
Attack on Kupei: A reported revival of Nip activity at Kupei, south of Arawa Bay, where enemy troops were formerly concentrated, took 7 Torokina F4Us to this target yesterday morning. They carried quarter-ton incendiaries.
Pilots found the target difficult to bomb because of high hills on all sides, and reported poor coverage. One bombs was a direct hit on the target area, and six hits were scored around the perimeter.
The last pilot over the target saw several huts which appeared to be scorched but were not burning, possibly because of the dampness.
For the Record:
7 F4Us NZ 22 1050 load 1x500 dr 7x500 fr 4000'. (incend.)
NEW BRITAIN
(26 sorties-7 tons)
SEARCHES FOR 14 OCTOBER
Beefsteak searches were negative, except for friendly sightings, track averaging 69 percent and cover 65 percent. A heavy front was encountered extending E-W at the Equator.
Brewer searches were negative, averaging 390 miles out and 93 percent cover. Weather was reported average to good.
For the Record:
4 PBYs (FAW-10) Admiralties 400 mile search sectors.
4 PV-1s (VPB-148) Emirau 400 mile search sectors, (0700-1256)
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 12, 2021 11:16:29 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 16 October 1944.
Yesterday was the most active day in the NorSols area since October 5. A total of 264 sorties were flown and 105 tons of bombs were dropped on enemy positions. The main weight of the attack was directed against targets in the Gazelle Peninsula, where 155 planes dropped 71 tons. The principal missions were a diversionary attack against gun positions around Rabaul to cover a TDR strike on Matupi bridge; and attacks on the Kurakakaul and Ralum supply areas. Prevented by weather from reaching Praed Point, 51 Emirau planes dropped 25 tons on New Ireland plantation areas. The full programme of sweeps and patrols was carried out.
The possibility of a Nip night fighter being operational is revived by a report from Emirau of a radar plot showing three planes over Kavieng at a time when two PBJs were in that area.
Five F4Us were damaged during yesterday's strikes and patrols, and one SBD was shot down, the crew being recovered.
NEW BRITAIN
(155 sorties-71 tons)
TDR Attack on Matupi Bridge: Under cover of a diversionary attack by 60 Green planes on gun positions around Simpson harbour, 4 TDRs were launched against the bridge connecting Matupi Island with the mainland. Through materiel failure one TDR crashed and sank midway between Duke of York Island and Cape Gazelle. One TDR passed through the saddle between the "Mother" and the south "Daughter" — opposed by light, inaccurate A/A — passed over the Matupi bridge, cruised inside Simpson harbour for nine minutes, circling Vulcan Crater and Matupi, and crashed on the W. side of the harbour. The third crashed and exploded on the SW side of Hospital ridge, and the fourth hit a secondary target area.
Ralum Supply Area: A group of buildings, estimated at 40, west of Ralum, was the target for 12 F4Us of NZ 22 carrying eight thousand-pounders and four quarter-ton incendiaries.
The planes reported good coverage and grouping. During the attack a large explosion took place in the centre of the target, debris was hurled in all directions and a large column of greyish-black smoke rose to 500 feet. Two black puffs of A/A were observed at 6000 feet off Ralum. The last aircraft on the target reported 2 black puffs below it while it was in a dive at 3000-4000 feet.
Photos taken at 1051-56 did not show any damage in the specified Ralum target area.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 22 0845 load 1x1000(8) dr 8x1000 1x500 4x500 fr 2500'.
incend(4)
NEW IRELAND
(72 sorties-30 tons)
BOUGAINVILLE
(27 sorties-2 tons)
Rigu Buildings: Huts and buildings S. of Kieta harbour, in the Rigu area, were bombed by 8 F4Us of NZ 22. Dropping quarter-ton incendiaries, the F4Us possibly damaged one group of 6-7 huts, raising a column of grayish smoke to 500'; and completely demolished another group of five huts.
For the Record:
8 F4Us NZ 22 1135 load 1x500 (incend.) dr 8x500.
Bougainville Patrols: Five two-plane Bougainville patrols, incorporating the Able-Charlie search, were flown by VMO 251. The first patrol strafed three Nips in a canoe in Tonolei harbour, killing the Nips and sinking the canoe. They also strafed a small boat on the NW shore of the harbour, and many camouflaged nets covering boxes along the shore. Later patrols strafed huts in the Kieta area, at Numa Numa, and north of Kahili. A barge hideout was reported under overhanging trees at the mouth of a river flowing into Lake Lahala.
The dawn and dusk patrols were uneventful. The PV on the Torokina-Rabaul sweep reported 4 puffs of fairly accurate medium A/A bursting at 5000' from Tobera.
For the Record:
10 F4Us VMO 251 0611-1545 Bougainville patrols. Strafing.
8 F4Us VMO 251 0607-0705(4) Dawn and dusk patrols.
1733-1814 (4)
1 PV NZ 3 0740-1125 Torokina-Rabaul sweep.
SEARCHES FOR 15 OCTOBER
Beefsteak searches were negative with full track and cover. The weather was reported excellent, ceiling and visibility unlimited, with a few scattered squalls. This is the final VPB-148 Baker 31 search report since RNZAF takes over on 16 October.
Brewer searches were negative with full track and averaging 98 percent cover.
Tarbaby bombed Hunter Point, area Victor, and Matakan Plantation, area Uncle, SW New Ireland. Charcoal cooperated with Treasury PT's in area Queen and bombed Nukiki. It also bombed Kieta Airdrome with unobserved results and dropped 20-pound frags on the road from Kieta to Chivorante. Communication, and cooperation with PT's were reported good. Shipping count negative.
For the Record:
4 PBY-5 (FAW-10) Admiralties 400 mile search sectors.
4 PV-1 (VPB-148) Emirau 400 mile search sectors (0619-1405).
2 PBY5A (VPB-44) Green PT cooperation:—
Charcoal (2215-0215) 6x500 GP Inst.
) dr 2x500 Incend.
Tarbaby (2105-0235) 40x20 Frag.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 13, 2021 12:15:54 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 17 October 1944.
Bad weather and the regular projected strike from New Guinea yesterday again reduced NorSols activity over New Britain to very small proportions. Only the afternoon Rabaul patrols were flown in that region. Forty-seven Green and Emirau planes were out over New Ireland, where they attacked huts, bridges and roads in areas of Nip concentration.
On Bougainville the target for the main strike was Tenekau where the attacking planes were reported to have scored hits on a group of huts. The full schedule of Bougainville patrols were flown.
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(49 sorties-12 1/2 tons)
Bougainville Patrols: Six two-plane Bougainville patrols (incorporating the Able-Charlie search) were flown by NZ 17. Eight of the planes carried quarter-tonners on the patrols, and six of the bombs were dropped. Huts and cooking fires were strafed in many Nip concentration areas, including Shortland and Fauro Islands. A hut on Fauro was left in flames, and near misses were reported on huts near Komaliai Point. A 15 ft. native canoe 20 yards off shore at Cape Friendship was hit in a strafing attack. It appeared to be loaded with cased stores, but carried no passengers. A camouflaged barge or 25' to 30' boat was sighted in a cove on the south side of Raua harbour, but had disappeared when the F4Us returned to strafe.
Many individual Nips and groups of Nips were strafed. In most cases results were unobserved, but seven were reported killed.
Muzzle flashes were seen from a probable MG on Moila Point, and from the shore of a small inlet just south of Numa Numa.
The dawn patrol was routine. Dusk patrol was cancelled.
An FMAW TBF on an observation tour strafed Mabiri Point, and reported two possible storage dumps at this point and the disappearance of a canoe previously docked there.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 17 0610-1805 load 1x500(8) dr 6x500.
4 F4Us NZ 17 0610-0725 Dawn patrol.
1 TBF FMAW 0930-1045 Observation and strafing.
NEW IRELAND
(47 sorties-22 tons)
NEW BRITAIN (8 sorties-4 tons)
Gazelle Peninsula Sweeps: Four F4Us took off from Piva for the afternoon Put Put-Keravat sweep (the morning sweeps were cancelled on account of projected strikes from New Guinea), but encountered a solid front and were forced to turn back. The other two sweeps were cancelled.
SEARCHES FOR 16 OCTOBER
Beefsteak searches were weathered out. Brewer searches reported only friendly sightings, averaging 360(?) miles out and 78 percent cover. The weather was fair to poor.
Charcoal in cooperation with Green PT's bombed Huru Point causing a large fire with explosions. Six flashes of probable MG fire were spotted from Huru Point. Cape Hanpan was bombed with unobserved results.
For the Record:
2 PBY5 (FAW-10) Admiralties (300?) mile search sectors.
2 PBY5A (VPB-44) Green PT Cooperation: Charcoal (1915-0035) dr 6x500 GP Inst.
2x500 Incend.
26x20 Frags.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Mar 13, 2021 14:11:06 GMT 12
Day Ending 0800 18 October 1944.
One hundred and thirty-one sorties were flown over New Britain yesterday, the main targets being Nip concentration areas in Henry Reid Bay, on the east coast of Gazelle peninsula, and in Open Bay, on the west coast. A total of 91 planes dropped 35 tons on these two areas, with apparently good results.
Four TDRs were used against buildings below Hospital Ridge in the Rabaul area. One of them hit the target, another caused a large explosion in the NW section of the town, and a third exploded on a ridge W. of Rabaul.
On Bougainville an FMAW TBF dropped a scroll addressed to the Commanding General of the 17th Japanese Army, inviting him to enter into negotiations for the surrender of the Nip forces on Bougainville. The two NZ F4Us on the last Bougainville patrol failed to return to base and are missing.
A Green PBY5A operating off the W. coast of southern New Ireland made a radar contact with a possible unidentified plane at 0355 hours yesterday. No visual contact was made, but reports from PT boats were reported to confirm the presence of an unidentified plane.
NEW BRITAIN
(131 sorties-50 tons)
TDRs Attack Hospital Ridge Buildings: Buildings below Hospital Ridge were the target for 4 TDRs. The first was lost off New Ireland because of control failure. The second approached from over Tunnel Hill road and hit buildings in the target area. The third approached over Tunnel Hill road, proceeded south over Simpson harbour, circled Matupi Island twice, oriented on Gredner Island, turned north and made a final approach over Hospital Ridge hitting buildings at the junction of Tunnel Hill road and Main street, Rabaul. The explosion was followed by another explosion of greater intensity with fire and smoke for 10 minutes. The fourth TDR approached from the SE passing near Vulcan Crater barge hide-out and thence over the Beehives to a ridge west of Rabaul Town where it exploded.
No A/A fire was observed against the TDRs, but the control planes drew meagre A/A.
BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(19 sorties-2 1/2 tons)
Surrender Terms for Nips: A scroll addressed to Lt. General Hyakutake, commanding general of the 17th Japanese Army, inviting him to enter into negotiations for the surrender of the Nips forces on Bougainville, was dropped by an FMAW TBM yesterday in Ebery's lease clearing about 3/4 mile SW of Toburai. The scroll was signed by the Commander of the United States Forces on Bougainville.
The drop was made from 100 feet, and the gunner reported seeing the red streamers attached to the scroll lying on the ground in the clearing.
The terms of the offer provide for Lt. General Hyakutake sending an emissary to Torokina to arrange for the safe conduct of the Nip forces to that area. If no reply has been received at the end of a week, copies of the message, with an explanatory text, are to be dropped to the Nips all over Bougainville.
Bougainville Patrols: Six Bougainville patrols, incorporating Able-Charlie searches, were flown by NZ 17. The two planes on the last patrol, which took off at 1640, failed to return and are still missing. Their ETA was 1800. All of the F4Us again carried quarter-tonners, with which they possibly damaged several huts at Sirukiai; demolished 3 huts and a two-stroy building at Koheno; scored a hit on two huts on Fatsigan Island; and destroyed 5 huts south of Skotolan. Two bombs were dropped on the reported Nip bivouac area at Numa Numa, with unobserved results; and two more on a naval type 5 in. coastal gun 500 yards NE from Moila point towards Kahili. The gun was missed, but the position was strafed.
Nips were strafed in mangy places, for the most part with unobserved results. Four were reported killed, and one wounded. Strafing blew out the side of a 12 ft. white, wooden dinghy drawn up on the beach E. of Komaliai point, and started a small fire in the bush opposite the dinghy.
The dawn and dusk patrols were routine.
For the Record:
12 F4Us NZ 17 0610-1640 load 1x500 dr 10x500. Two planes missing.
7 F4Us NZ 17 0610-0720(4) Dawn and dusk patrols.
1720-1830(3)
NEW IRELAND
(40 sorties- 14 tons)
SEARCHES FOR 17 OCTOBER
Beefsteak searches 1, 2, 3 Baker 31 reported only friendly sightings with 100 percent track and cover. Weather was unreported except for 4 tenths cumulus cloud cover.
Brewer searches 1, 2 Baker 32 reported all sightings friendly with 100 percent track and cover. Weather was reported above average with 4 tenths cloud cover.
In cooperation with Green PTs Tarbaby bombed Huru, Hunter and Sperber Points.
Sambo dropped its bombs on Sipasai Island and Nukiki village and Mokiki and Charcoal bombed Kimidan plantation all with unobserved results. Tarbaby reported radar indications of a possible airborne bogey in Uncle and later reports from the PT tended to confirm this bogey.
For the Record:
3 PV-1 (NZ 3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-130) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.
4 PBY5A (VPB-44) Green PT cooperation: Tarbaby (1941-0455)
Sambo (2200-0100) dr 12x500 GP Inst.
4x500 Incend.
39x20 Frags.
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