RNZAF activity in the Pacific, 1944

[davidd]

aircraftclocks, "our man" at Emirau certainly gets things right about 99.9999999999999% of the time, so I think we can forgive him one small error, every once in a while - they are usually easy to spot if you can concentrate for long enough! I do enjoy his style and habit of trying to keep things just bouncing along without it getting boring, and dreaming up new ways of describing things that have happened before many times.

Interesting to see the RAAF Spitfire Squadron (No. 79) popping up - it was moved here (Admiralties) to keep away pesky Japanese reconnaissance aircraft, but as these were getting very scarce by this time, the Spitfires were withdrawn to undertake more pressing needs somewhere else. Typically the Japanese sensed this, and began to mount more small scale attacks against Allied positions, and more reconnaissance flights in November. The theatre commander heard the outcry about the lack of air defence over the Seadler anchorage, and called on RNZAF to transfer one of their F4U squadrons at Bougainville (and its SU, No. 4) to move up to Los Negros pronto, to plug the defence gap. I could be wrong, but have a feeling that 79 Squadron was equipped with some of the oldest Spitfires in operational use anywhere - Mark Vs!
David D

[aircraftclocks]

WEEKLY REPORT OF AIRCRAFT AND PILOT AVAILABILITY FOR WEEK ENDING TUESDAY, 31 OCTOBER, 1944.

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

ADMIRALTIES

VF-79 (RAAF)                                  12 SPIT-5                              11                         17                    VF-79
VS-61                                             15 SBD                                 14                         18                    VS-61
                                                       1 J2F-6                                 1
VPB-130                                         15 PV-1                                14                          38                    VPB-130
VPB-137                                         15 PV-1                                10                          38
FAW-10                                            7 PBY-5                                6                          13                    HEDRON-10
                                                     10 PBM                                  7

EMIRAU

VMF-115                                        22 F4U                                  22                         46                    VMF-115
VMF-211                                        24 F4U-1D                             24                         35                    VMF-211
VMF-313                                        22 FG-1A                               22                         27                    VMF-313
VMSB-142                                      21 SBD-6                              21                         38                    VMSB-142
VMSB-243                                      25 SBD-5                              25                         47                    VMSB-243
*VMD-254                                       0                                          0                          11                    VMD-254
VMB-413                                        10 PBJ-1D                              9                          51                    VMB-413
VMB-433                                        11 PBJ-1D                            11                          41                    VMB-433
VMB-443                                        11 PBJ-1D                              9                          41                    VMB-443
VMB-611                                        11 PBJ-1D                             11                         22                    SS-61
NZ-3                                              16 PV-1                                14                         13                     NZ #10 S.U.

GREEN

VMF-218                                         19 F4U                                19                          33                    VMF-218
VMF-222                                         19 F4U                                19                          44                    VMF-222
VMSB-244                                       25 SBD-5                            25                          45                    VMSB-244
VMSB-341                                       22 SBD-6                            22                          50                    VMSB-341
VMB-423                                         11 PBJ-1D                           11                          50                    VMB-423
VPB-44                                            15 PBY-5A                           15                         57                    PATSU 1-11
**VPB-52                                        15 PBY-5                             12                         51                    PATSU 1-11
NZ-20                                             18 F4U-1D                          18                          25                    NZ #3 S.U.

BOUGAINVILLE

VMO-251                                          5 F4U-1D                            5                          35                    VMO-251
VMF-212                                         22 F4U                                22                         30                    VMF-212
VMF-223                                         22 F4U                                22                         32                    VMF-223
VMSB-133                                       22 SBD-6                            21                         18                    VMSB-133
VMSB-236                                       24 SBD-6                            24                         41                    VMSB-236
VMR-152                                         17 R4D-5                            15                         66                    VMR-152
VMR-153                                         15 R4D-5                            15                         71                    VMR-153
17TH PHOTO                                     5 F5A                                 5                           8                    17TH PHOTO
                                                       1 RA-24B                            1
NZ-17                                            18 F4U-1                             18                         20                    NZ #2 S.U.
NZ-22                                            18 F4U-1                             18                          0                     NZ #4 S.U.

MUNDA

VMSB-241                                      22 SBD-6                            22                         49                    VMSB-241

*Awaiting transportation to U.S.
**As of 17 October. (No current report received).

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 3 November 1944.

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(42 sorties-12 1/4 tons)

Tabago and Taki Huts: Huts in suspected Nip personnel areas at Tabago and 4 miles inland from Taki (SE Bougainville) were attacked by 9 F4Us and 12 SBDs which were weathered out of Kurakakaul, New Britain, their primary target. Results at Tabago, where the F4Us dropped 9 half-tonners, were unobserved because of cloud. At Taki the SBDs reported the confirmed destruction of 6 huts. They observed in the area seven to eight groups each of four to eight huts.

For the Record:

9 F4Us NZ 23 1105 load 1x1000 dr 9x1000.
12 SBDs VMSB 133 1015 load 1x500 dr 12x500
                                            2x250 22x250.

Bougainville Patrols: Four Bougainville patrols only were flown by VMF 223. The 8 F4Us on these patrols strafed and possibly killed one Jap at Cape L'Averdy. They strafed a road Junction N. of Malabita hill, Mabiri point, Ebery's Lease, and huts in NE Bougainville and on the west coast, in each case with unobserved results. The dawn patrol and the Torokina-Rabaul sweep were negative. The dusk patrol and the last two Bougainville patrols were cancelled on account of weather.

For the Record:

8 F4Us VMF 223 0616-1505 Bougainville patrols.
4 F4Us VMF 223 0605-0750 Dawn patrol.
1 PV NZ 3 0847-1131 Torokina-Rabaul sweep.

NEW IRELAND
(9 sorties-3 1/4 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: The usual Kavieng patrols were maintained only till 1145, when the weather closed in. With quarter-tonners 4 Emirau F4Us sank an empty 30 ft. barge in Balgai Bay and reported near misses on buildings at Kapsu and Ulunono plantations. The PV hit Katanu plantation with unobserved results. Weather was poor.

For the Record:

4 F4Us VMF 313 load 1x500 dr 4x500.
1 PV NZ 3 0540-1145 load 4x500 dr 4x500
                                       2x100 2x100.

NEW BRITAIN
(4 sorties-0 tons)

SEARCHES FOR 2 NOVEMBER

In cooperation with PT boats during the night of 1/2 November Charcoal bombed Borpop in area Fox east New Ireland while weather cancelled Sambo and Tarbaby.
Beefsteak Baker 31 searches for 2 November reported negative sigthings and poor weather with 75 percent track and cover in sector Uncle, 60 percent in Victor and Tare sector weathered.
Brewer Baker 32 searches for 2 November reported full track, very bad weather and only friendly sightings in both sectors with only 50 percent cover in sector Able and 30 percent cover in sector Baker.

For the Record:

1 PBY-5A (VPB-44) PT cooperation dr 1x500 Mag. cluster.
                                                     18x20 Frags.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile searches.
3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile searches.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 4 November 1944.

NEW IRELAND
(69 sorties-29 tons)

Borpop Attacked: The area around Borpop strip was heavily hit by a force of 8 Green PBJs, 16 F4Us, and 35 SBDs with 23 tons of bombs. They bombed and strafed the area thoroughly, starting 36 fires. The 16 F4Us were apparently employed for strafing only. Moderate to intense, inaccurate to accurate light and medium A/A holed one PBJ. Three PVs attacked Lamussong, where they reported good coverage with one hut destroyed.

For the Record:

8 PBJs VMB 423 load 6x100 dr 48x100. One plane damaged.
16 F4Us VMF 218 1130-1150 Apparently strafed only.
35 SBDs VMSB 244 1x640 D.C. (5) 1x1000(30)
                             2x325 D.C. 2x100
                           dr 5x650 D.C. 29x1000
                             10x325 D.C. 56x100.
3 PVs NZ 3 1015 load 4x500 dr 12x500
                               2x100 6x100. (incend. cl)

North New Ireland Patrols: The Kavieng patrols were maintained— during the morning only—by 6 Emirau F4Us and one PV. The PV bombed gardens at Kimidan pltn. and destroyed a cart at Karmiraba pltn. The F4Us bombed buildings at Roland Young plantation, Medina and Lossuk Bay, in each case with unobserved results.

For the Record:

6 F4Us VMF 115 load 1x500 dr 6x500.
1 PV NZ 3 0650-1245 load 4x500 dr 4x500
                                       2x100 2x100. (incend. cl.)

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(37 sorties-12 tons)

Aku Bivouac Area Hit Again: Buildings and a truck park on the W. side of the Porro river, near Aku (S. Bougainville), were again under attack yesterday by 24 NZ F4Us carrying 12 tons of bombs. The target was hit by 31 F4Us and SBDs on October 29. The first flight of 12 F4Us dropped 10 half-tonners into the target area with unobserved results. The second 12 F4Us reported
11 of their bombs in the target area and the 12th hitting the centre of the east-west road just west of the target. During a strafing run pilots saw a large flash, accompanied by smoke and debris, rise right through the trees. The whole area was reported covered with white smoke. Three or four huts were strafed, and tracers were seen to enter them.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 15 0750 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000.
12 F4Us NZ 23 0810 load 1x1000 dr 12x1000.

Bougainville Patrols: Three Bougainville patrols were flown by VMF 223, and the Able-Charlie search by NZ 15. The remainder of the patrols were cancelled because of weather.
All three patrols strafed the road Junction NW of Malabita hill with unobserved results. Other targets were a bridge 1 1/2 miles S. of Koromira point, Kieta airfield, Chinatown, caves at Lemanmanu, and huts between Kara and Kahili and at Koromira. The F4Us riddled huts about 3 miles inland from Aropa and Iwi plantations and an empty barge (probably already unserviceable) in Tonolei harbour.
Two F4Us on the Able-Charlie search killed 9 Japs around Numa Numa and damaged a barge covered with a tarpaulin on the N. side of Burunatui pltn., W. Buka. They encountered one burst of accurate medium (40mm) fire 5 miles inland from Numa Numa; several bursts of medium (20mm) at Papas, and MG fire from Cape Tosahui (E. Buka) and Karsorila (SW Buka).
An FMAW TBF dropped 15,000 leaflets between Monoitu and Mosigetta and at Kieta, Ibu, and Sisivie; and smoked one hut at Kieta by strafing.
The dawn patrol was negative. The dusk patrol was cancelled.

For the Record:

6 F4Us VMF 223 0650-1305 Bougainville patrols,
2 F4Us NZ 15 1000-1215 Able-Charlie search.
1 TBF FMAW 0935-1105 Leaflet drop.
4 F4Us VMF 223 0625-0721 Dawn patrol.

NEW BRITAIN
(26 sorties-10 tons)

SEARCHES FOR 3 NOVEMBER

Emirau Baker 31 searches reported negative sightings, fair to poor weather, and incomplete cover in all sectors with 95 percent track in sector Tare, 85 percent in sector Uncle and 35 percent in sector Victor. Admiralties Baker 32 searches reported full track negative sightings with scattered squalls in both sectors. Sector Able reported 60 percent cover while Baker reported only 75 percent.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile searches.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile searches.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 5 November 1944.

NEW IRELAND
(97 sorties-46 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: The Kavieng north New Ireland patrols were maintained, in fair to bad weather, by 12 Emirau F4Us and one PV. Two patrols were cancelled by weather. The patrol planes destroyed two huts at Kaut plantation, and fired a building at Malapai by strafing.

For the Record:

12 F4Us VMF 211 load 1x500(2) 2x500
0612-1610 1x260(10)frag. dr 10x260
1 PV NZ 3 load 4x500 dr 4x500
                      2x100 2x100.

NEW BRITAIN

SEARCHES FOR 4 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak Baker searches were negative and reported very bad weather with percent of track and cover as follows: Tare 50, Uncle 40, and Victor 88. Brewer Baker 32 searches were negative with full track and averaging 55 percent cover. Showers were reported in Able and continuous rain in Baker. The Cat cooperation with PT's was weathered out.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors,
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 6 November 1944.

NEW BRITAIN
(53 sorties-28tons)

NEW IRELAND
(64 sorties-21 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: For the first day this month a full schedule of north New Ireland patrols was flown by 18 F4Us and 2 PVs from Emirau. The planes destroyed a boat shed on Nusalik Island; killed 3 Nips manning an A/A position north of Panapai; and holed and stopped a truck south of Panapai. An Army weather observer aboard a PV was wounded by intense, accurate light A/A from N. of Panapai. Moderate, inaccurate light was encountered from Kavieng. The patrol planes apparently did not carry bombs.

For the Record:

18 F4Us VMF 313(14)
VMF 211(4) 0540-1830
2 PVs NZ 3

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA

Bougainville Patrol: A single Bougainville patrol was airborne for 20 minutes at 0910 hours, but was recalled to base because of bad weather. All other patrols and missions from Piva were cancelled.

SEARCHES FOR 5 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative with the percent of track and cover averaging as follows: Tare 70, Uncle 20, and Victor 75. Poor weather in all sectors. Brewer searches were likewise negative with full track and averaging 68 percent cover. Squalls and poor weather reported. The Cat PT cooperation was weathered out.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 7 November 1944.

NEW IRELAND
(62 sorties-21 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: A full schedule of patrols over north New Ireland was again maintained yesterday by 14 F4Us and 2 PVs from Emirau. The F4Us dropped their bombs on Lakurafange and on Roland Young, Koka and Fessoa plantations with unobserved results. The PVs destroyed huts and cratered a garden at Karmiraba and bombed Lamussong plantation with unobserved results.
The PVs drew meagre, inaccurate medium (20mm) fire from an unspecified point.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 115 load 1x500(2) dr 2x500
0545-1800 1x260 frag(12) 12x260.
2 PVs NZ 3 load 4x500 dr 7x500
                        2x100 incend. 4x100.

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(2 sorties)

SEARCHES FOR 6 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative except for friendly shipping. The percent of track and cover for the three sectors averaged as follows: Tare 100, Uncle 80, Victor 75. Fair weather was reported.
Brewer searches were negative except for friendly sightings, with full track and averaging 58 percent cover. Weather was below average. The Cat PT cooperation was weathered out.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 8 November 1944

NEW BRITAIN
(94 sorties - 50 tons)

NEW IRELAND
(67 sorties - 31 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: A varitey of targets were hit by 14 Emirau F4Us and 2 PVs during their patrols of the Kavieng area. Bombing and strafing attacks were made on Fileba plantation, a personnel area and garden plot between Roland Young plantation and Fangelawa, Korabin, Balus, Panaras and Lamussong plantations, Amba and Katanu. Apart from the destruction of one building at Katanu, results were unobserved.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 211) (load 1x500 (2) dr. 2x500
                        ) 0604-1915 ( 1x260 frag (12.) 12x260
2 PVs NZ 3 ) ( " 2x500 " 4x500
                        3x250 6x250
                        1x100 inst 2x100

Lamussong Plantation: The Lamussong plantation area was attacked by 3 Emirau PVs carrying 12 quarter-tonners and 6 incendiary centuries. Results were unobserved. Truck activity was noted in the area.

For the Record:

3 PVs NZ 3 1117 load 4x500 dr. 12x500
                                2x100 incend. 6x100

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(37 sorties - 9 tons)

Tabago Bivouac Area: Gardens and huts in the Tabago and adjacent areas were hit with 9 tons by 21 Piva F4Us which had been weathered out of their primary target, Tenekau.
The first flight of 9 F4Us (NZ 15) dropped one half-tonner on a hut N of Takasago farms, and six half-tonners in the target area. They saw one burst of accurate, heavy A/A from Ebery's lease.
The remaining 12 F4Us (NZ 23) dropped eight half-tonners in the target area, producing a sheet of flame followed by a column of brown smoke 500 ft. high. They smoked 3 huts by strafing. Two thousand-pounders were dropped in the gardens, and another destroyed 5 huts 5 miles N of Kara. A single Nip in this area was strafed with unobserved results.

For the Record:

9 F4Us NZ 15 0900 load 1x1000 dr. 7x1000
12 F4Us NZ 23 0905 " 1x1000 " 11x1000

SEARCHES 7 NOVEMBER

Emirau searches reported 100 percent track, negative sightings and good weather in sectors Tare and Uncle. Cover was 100 percent and 80 percent in Tare and Uncle respectively. Victor sector plane returned early. Admiralties searches were negative, 100 percent track and 80 percent cover and poor weather in both sectors. Because of bad weather the cat PT cooperation was cancelled.

For the Record:

3 PV-1s (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile searches.
2 PV-1s (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile searches.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 9 November 1944.

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(90 sorties-23 tons)

Suspected Headquarters at Ratsoa: What is believed to be a Nip Brigade headquarters in the Ratsoa (Matchin Bay) area was hit by 36 Piva F4Us and 16 SBDs with 16 1/2 tons.
The F4Us (VMF 223, NZ 15 and NZ 23) reported covering the area thoroughly. A fire was started N. of the target, but other results were obscured by jungle. The F4Us also strafed the area. The SBDs, which followed the fighters in, dropped 5 half-tonners, 10 quarter-tonners, and 17 250-pounders into the target area. Results were again obscured. One SBD received two holes, possibly from a bomb fragment.

For the Record:

          VMF 223(13) 0745
36 F4Us NZ 23 (11) 0748 load 1x500 dr 35x500.
            NZ 15 (12) 0730
16 SBDs VMSB 236 0820 load 1x1000(5) 5x1000
                                            1x500 dr 10x500
                                            2x250 (11) 21x250.

Possible Munition Dump Destroyed: A concrete hut at the N. tip of Kekere plantation—a possible ammunition dump—was shattered as a result of an attack by 8 F4Us of NZ 15. Dropping eight half-tonners, the F4Us scored one direct hit and one near miss on the hut, which was 30 ft. long and had walls 8 inches thick. Half the hut was destroyed and the remaining walls were shattered.
A large sheet of red flame was seen, with much black smoke, and debris from the explosion was seen felling 50 yards out to sea.
Four other F4Us made a strafing attack without bombs. They killed 5 Nips—2 in the Arawa area, one at Ruri Bay, and two in a large black rubber dinghy in Komaliai Bay. Two other Nips in Kobuan Bay were strafed with unobserved results. Meagre, inaccurate MG fire was received from a hill inland from Tolotapako point (SE coast).
Eight F4Us of NZ 23 dropped their quarter-tonners on a supposed concrete dam at Raua, which pilots said had rather the appearance of a metal plate covered with sand. They reported 2 direct hits but no damage. Two F4Us of VMF 223, briefed to hit a large camouflaged hut NE of the Ratsoa river, could not find their target. With quarter-tonners, they destroyed 2 huts at Tarlena point and cratered a garden at Porton.

For the Record:

12 F4Us NZ 15 1015 load 1x1000(8) dr 8x1000.
8 F4Us NZ 23 1035 load 1x500 dr 8x500.
2 F4Us VMF 223 1130 load 1x500 dr 2x500.

Bougainville Patrols: Four Bougainville patrols were flown by VMF 212. Three of these were negative. The fourth strafed the vicinity of Makaka, with unobserved results. Eight thousand leaflets were dropped by an FMAW TBF between Mosigetta and Monoitu and in the Kieta area. The dawn and dusk patrols were negative.

For the Record:

8 F4Us VMF 212 0613-1420 Bougainville patrols.
8 F4Us VMF 212 0610-0710(4)
1725-1827(4) Dawn and dusk patrols.

NEW IRELAND
(59 sorties-25 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: With the exception of one patrol, which returned on account of weather, the Kavieng patrols were flown throughout the day by 14 Emirau F4Us and 2 PVs. The PVs destroyed 3 huts N. of Lamernewei plantation and 5 huts at Kolube plantation. Results of the F4Us' bombing were unobserved. Moderate, accurate light A/A S. of the Kavieng strip damaged one F4U.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 313 0540-1920 load 1x260 frag dr 12x260.
2 PVs NZ 3 load 6x250 dr 12x250.
One F4U damaged.

NEW BRITAIN
(20 sorties-6 tons)

SEARCHES FOR 8 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches reported negative with 90 percent track and cover in sectors Tare and Victor and full track with 70 percent cover in Uncle. Fair weather was encountered. Brewer searches were negative and the weather was found to be good, with both searches going full distance and attaining 80 percent cover. Charcoal, cooperating with PTs, bombed Cape Lemeris, and Himau, Fessoa, Kaf Kaf, and Lamerika Plantations. Tarbaby bombed King Bay, Cape Natat, Hunter Point and Tambakar Point, starting fires in the latter area. Sambo was weathered out.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors,
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.
2 PBY-5A (VPB-44) PT cooperation 2030-0145 dr 6x500 GP.
                                                                       1x500 Incend.
                                                                     40x20 Frags.

[aircraftclocks]

WEEKLY REPORT OF AIRCRAFT AND PILOT AVAILABILITY FOR WEEK ENDING TUESDAY, 7 NOVEMBER, 1944.

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

ADMIRALTIES

VF-79 (RAAF)                               10 SPIT-5                         8                               17                      VF-79
VS-61                                          15 SBD                          14                               18                      VS-61
                                                    1 J2F-6                          1
VPB-52                                        11 PBY-5                          6                               51                      VPB-52
VPB-137                                      15 PV-1                          10                               38                      VPB-137
FAW-10                                         9 PBY-5                          0                               23                      HEDRON-10
                                                    3 PBM-3                         3

EMIRAU

VMF-115                                      22 F4U                           22                              40                       VMF-115
VMF-211                                      22 F4U-1D                     22                               36                       VMF-211
VMF-313                                      22 FG-1A                       21                               29                       VMF-313
VMSB-142                                    21 SBD-6                       21                              38                       VMSB-142
VMSB-243                                   25 SBD-5                        25                              39                       VMSB-243
VMB-413                                     11 PBJ-1D                       11                              52                       VMB-413
VMB-433                                     10 PBJ-1D                       10                              42                       VMB-433
VMB-443                                     10 PBJ-1D                       10                              52                       VMB-443
VMB-611                                     12 PBJ-1D                       12                              24                      S.S.61
NZ-3                                           16 PV-1                          16                              15                       NZ #10 S.U.

GREEN

VMF-218                                     13 F4U                            13                              33                      VMF-218
VMF-222                                     19 F4U                            19                              41                      VMF-222
VMSB-244                                   25 SBD-5                        25                              45                      VMSB-244
VMSB-341                                   22 SBD-6                        22                              45                      VMSB-341
VMB-423                                     11 PBJ-1D                       11                              40                      VMB-423
VPB-44                                       15 PBY-5A                       15                              57                      PATSU 1-11
NZ-20                                         18 F4U-1D                      18                              24                      NZ #3 S.U.
NZ-1                                             9 PV-1                           0                                9

BOUGAINVILLE

VMO-251                                    22 F4U-1D                      22                              34                       VMO-251
VMF-212                                     22 F4U                           22                              31                       VMF-212
VMF-223                                     21 F4U                           21                              34                       VMF-223
VMSB-133                                   21 SBD-6                       20                              18                       VMSB-133
VMSB-236                                   24 SBD-6                       24                              46                       VMSB-236
VMR-152                                     17 R4D-5                       15                              65                       VMR-152
VMR-153                                     14 R4D-5                       13                              71                       VMR-153
17TH PHOTO                                 5 F5A                             5                               8                        17TH PHOTO
                                                   1 RA-24B                        1
NZ-15                                        18 F4U-1                         18                              27                      NZ #2 S.U.
NZ-23                                        18 F4U                            16                              25                      NZ #4 S.U.

MUNDA

VMSB-241                                  22 SBD-6                        22                              50                      VMSB-241

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 10 November 1944.

NEW BRITAIN
(92 sorties-40 tons)

NEW IRELAND
(63 sorties-17 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: Huts at Roland Young plantation and Lossuk Bay were damaged, gardens at Kimidan were strafed and Nemesalang, Lamussong plantation and Kavieng town were bombed by 12 Emirau F4Us and 2 F4Us on the north New Ireland patrols yesterday. The planes also strafed 3 trucks at Katu plantation.

For the Record:

12 F4Us VMF 211 load 1x500(2) 2x500
                                 1x260(10) dr 10x260. frag.
2 PVs NZ 3 load 6x250 dr 12x250.

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(89 sorties-25 tons)

Ratsoa Headquarters Area: The reported Nip headquarters area at Ratsoa (NW Bougainville) was hit yesterday—for the second successive day—by 39 Piva F4Us and 15 SBDs carrying 16 3/4 tons of bombs.
Results were again unobserved except for a small amount of smoke after the SBDs' bomb run. On retirement the F4Us strafed the Ruri Bay area and huts NW of the target.
The SBDs reported moderate, inaccurate medium A/A from a position E. of the target close to Ruri Bay.

For the Record:

             NZ 15(12) 0800
39 F4Us NZ 23(11) 0817 load 1x500 dr 37x500.
VMO 251(16) 0720
15 SBDs VMSB 133 0845 load 1x500 dr 15x500
                                            2x250 30x250.

Teop Buildings Destroyed: Buildings on Teop Island were destroyed by 15 Piva F4Us with 7 1/2 tons of bombs. The first flight of 8 F4Us reported destroying a hut on the S. end of the island, and causing smoke. The second flight, which reached the target an hour later, destroyed two buildings on the SW tip of the island, and 5 small huts. Pilots reported that the area of the bigger buildings and huts had been flattened, but they saw two more huts in the trees which they heavily strafed. Two F4Us of VMF 223 missed huts at Lemankoa with their bombs, and strafed them with unobserved results.

For the Record:

             NZ 15(8) 1015
15 F4Us NZ 23(7) 1110 load 1x1000 dr 15x1000.
2 F4Us VMF 223 1335 load 1x500 dr 2x500.

Bougainville Patrols: Five two-plane Bougainville patrols including 2 Able-Charlie searches were flown by VMF 223. An additional Able-Charlie search was conducted by 4 F4Us of NZ 15. The planes strafed huts and gardens between Kara and the Samiei river, and huts at Lemankoa, Arawa, Cape Mabiri, Cape L'Averdy, and on Shortland, Fauro and Ovau Islands. They killed 6 Nips, destroyed a canoe on the beach st Luluai Pt., and burned 2 huts and strafed a bridge on Kieta peninsula. The dawn patrol was negative. The dusk patrol was cancelled because of weather.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 223(10)
NZ 15(4) 0615-1750 Strafing only.
4 F4Us VMF 223 0614-0712 Dawn patrol.

SEARCHES FOR 9 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative with weather fair to good. The percentage of track and cover in the three sectors averaged as follows: Tare 95, Uncle 80, Victor 100. Brewer searches were negative with full track and averaging 95 percent cover in both sectors. The weather was fine with scattered showers. Charcoal was turned back by weather. Tarbaby visited SW New Ireland to bomb Cape Natat and Chinese Plantation, and reported sighting an unidentified single-engine plane twice in the Cape Roloss area being signalled to by a green light from shore. Sambo bombed Barimbara, Nukiki, and Panama Island. NW Choiseul, and Matsunkei, Mosiga, and Aitara, SW Bougainville. At Aitara a 10 minute fire was started. Otherwise results were unobserved.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.
3 PBY-5A(VPB-44) PT Cooperation 2040-0230 dr 6x500 GP
                                                                      2x500 Incend.
                                                                    36x20 Frags.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 11 November 1944.

NEW IRELAND
(72 sorties-29 1/2 tons)

Plantation Bivouac Areas: Plantation bivouac areas in New Ireland were attacked by 16 F4Us, 17 PBJs and 3 PVs from Emirau and by 4 PBJs from Green.
Nemasalang plantation area was the target for 8 F4Us and 9 PBJs, which reported the majority of bombs on the target and three direct hits on huts. Photographs showed a possible barge hide-out south of the target. Eight PBJs and 8 F4Us dropped 8 1/2 tons on the Lamernewei plantation bivouac area with unobserved results. Four bursts of inaccurate light A/A were received.
Three PVs reported good coverage of the Dallum plantation area with their 18 250-pounders. A low-level bombing and strafing attack was made by 4 Green PBJs on Matangahurl plantation. Most of their 24 centuries fell in the area, but no results were observed.
One PBJ was hit by shrapnel and another was holed 15 times by MG bullets. Intense, accurate probably heavy fire, and intense, accurate light were received from one mile E. of the Ujam river mouth.

For the Record:

8 F4Us VMF 115 1400 load 1x250 dr 8x250.
9 PBJs VMB 433 load 14x100 dr 97x100.
8 F4Us VMF 115 0955 lead 1x1000 dr 8x1000.
8 PBJs VMB 443 load 14x100 dr 89x100.
3 PVs NZ 3 1055 load 6x250 dr 18x250.
4 PBJs VMB 423 1055 load 6x100 dr 24x100. 2 PBJs damaged.

North New Ireland patrols: Dawn-to-dusk patrols over Kavieng were maintained by 14 Emirau F4Us and 2 PVs. Six of the planes bombed Kavieng with unobserved results. One hut was destroyed at Medina. Huts at Kono and at Lamussong plantation were bombed with unobserved results. One hut was fired, a number of cattle and goats were killed and 2 Nips were strafed at Dampit plantation.
For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 313(12) load 1x260 frag(12) dr 12x260
VMF 211(2) 0543-1920 load 1x250(2) dr 2x250.
2 PVs NZ 3 load 6x250 dr 12x250.

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(58 sorties-14 1/4 tons)

Ratsoa Again Hit Heavily: The reported Nip headquarters bivouac area at Ratsoa (NW Bougainville) was attacked—for the third successive day—by 29 Piva F4Us and 15 SBDs with 14 1/4 tons. All these planes were weathered out of their primary target, Kurakakaul. The SBDs reported that all their bombs fell on the target. They strafed the area and islands along the coast, encountering moderate and accurate MG fire from a small horse-shoe shaped island N. of Juniper Island and E. of Tenwa in Matchin Bay. One SBD was holed.
The F4Us dropped 27 quarter-tonners at Ratsoa. One flight strafed huts and gardens along the NE coast of Buka, killing a Nip at Lonahan and smoking huts at Lontis. Other F4Us killed a Nip on the beach near Mosiga, and probably killed 2 more on the beach near Tabut. Twelve Nips were strafed near Teopasina, and a hut was fired on Matzungan Island.

For the Record:

                                     1x1000(6) 6x1000
15 SBDs VMSB 236 0935 1x500 (9) dr 9x500
                                                        2x25018x250
                  NZ 15(8) 1000
29 F4Us VMF 212(16) 1000 1x500 dr 27x500.
                 NZ 23(5) 1035

Bougainville Patrols: Five Bougainville patrols, and the dawn patrol, were flown by VMO 251 and NZ 23. The patrol planes strafed huts, fires and Nips in many areas, mostly with unobserved results. They fired on a hut at Teihup and probably killed a Nip on the beach at Dio Dio. Four strafing runs were made on a well-concealed village of 10 huts on the coast of Shortland Island, 10 miles W. of Piaggi Island, but results were not observed. An FMAW TBF dropped 9500 propaganda leaflets between Mosigetta and Monoitu and at Kieta.

For the Record:

        VMO 251 (6)
10 F4Us NZ 23(4) 0615-1515 Bougainville patrols. Strafing only.
4 F4Us WMO 251 0616-0725 Dawn patrol.

NEW BRITAIN
(26 sorties-8 1/4 tons)

SEARCHES FOR 10 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative except for friendlies and the weather was fair to bad. The percentage of track and cover averaged as follows: Tare 90, Uncle 20, and Victor 0. The Uncle search was curtailed by the illness of a crew member and the Victor search was forced back by weather. Brewer searches reported negative with full distance, averaging only 68 percent cover because of rain and squalls. Thursday night three Emirau Mitchells searched the Kavieng and other New Ireland coastal areas for possible enemy aircraft. Flying at 4-5,000 feet they secured the East coast down to Kimidan and the West coast to Waum Plantation. One of the planes was forced back by the weather at Fangelawa. Bogie blips appeared but no contacts were made.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.
3 PBJs (VMB-433) Emirau special searches 2235-0130.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 12 November 1944.

NEW BRITAIN
(114 sorties - 60 tons)

Gazelle Peninsula Sweeps: The full schedule of 6 Gazelle peninsula sweeps was flown yesterday by 24 Piva F4Us of VMO 251. With their bombs the F4Us destroyed a hut at Rangarere and another at Vunagalip; damaged an undetermined number of huts at Lemingi; and hit the revetment area on the side of Vunakanau and a supply area at Wat Wat plantation. Other bombs were dropped on Keravat experimental farms, on huts near Namatanai (New Ireland) and on a house at Seragi plantation, south of Cape Lambert. Strafing attacks burned 2 trucks at Wat Wat plantation, killed one Nip (and possibly 2 others), and smoked the house at Seragi plantation.

NEW IRELAND
(64 sorties - 22 tons)

Bridges, Huts and Bivouacs: A variety of bridge, hut and bivouac area targets in New Ireland were attacked by 22 SBDs, 20 F4Us and 4 PBJs from Green and 3 PVs from Emirau.
The SBDs destroyed one building and huts at Dunup, and a bridge over the Salik river. They damaged the Soalaba river bridge and the first bridge N. of the Salik river.
Striking opportunity targets, the F4Us destroyed a bridge N. of the Sae river, and damaged bridges at the Sae river and at Ramut plantation. Meagre, inaccurate light A/A was received from Matankuk; meagre, inaccurate medium from Chinese plantation and Cape Roloss. Four TBJs made a low-level bombing and strafing attack on Karu plantation. Results were unobserved.
The Emirau PVs dropped 18 250-pounders on Katu plantation, results being obscured by heavy jungle growth.

For the Record:

22 SBDs VMSB 244 1035-1400 load 1x500 dr. 21x500
                                                  2x260 frags 42x260
20 F4Us VMF 218(16) 0905-1500 " 1x500 dr. 20x500
                NZ 20(4)
4 PBJs VMB 423 1525 " 6x100 " 24x100
3 PVs NZ 3 1100 " 6x250 " 18x250

North New Ireland Patrols: Targets in northern New Ireland were attacked by 14 Em.irau F4Us and a PV on the Kavieng patrols. Results were unobserved. Meagre, inaccurate MG fire was received from Balgai Bay.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 115) (load 1x260 frags (12) dr. 12x260
                       ) 0540-1925 ( 1x500 (2) 1x500
1 PV NZ 3 ) ( " 6x250 " 6x250

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(57 sorties-14 tons)

Tenekau Bivouac Area: A reported Nip bivouac area in Tenekau plantation, near the edge of the jungle, was hit by 23 F4Us with 5 3/4 tons of bombs. The first flight of 12 F4Us (NZ 15) reported a large red flash in the target area, with gray smoke rising to 200 feet. The second flight (NZ 23) also observed a large flash, which it believed to be an explosion rather than bomb blast. Otherwise results of the bombing and strafing were unobserved. Photos taken after the strike showed new bomb marks along the S. line of the plantation. There was no visible damage.

For the Record:

23 F4Us NZ 15(12) 0730-0740 load (1x500 dr. 23x500
            NZ 23(11) 0750 (

Huts in South Bougainville Destroyed: Huts in Southern Bougainville were bombed and strafed by 16 NZ F4Us each carrying a 1000-pound bomb. One flight of 8 planes destroyed 4 and damaged 2 of a group of huts 4 to 5 miles east of Lake Loloru (central south Bougainville) and smoked 3 others with strafing runs. A camp-fire at Carola plantation, Buka was strafed, and two Nips in the water at Kukurino were killed. An unobserved number of huts in the neighbourhood of Mt. Lawerenz was destroyed by the other 8 F4Us. They reported demolishing 2 of one group of huts and several of a second group, while 3 half-tonners falling among a third group scattered debris. Other huts were damaged by strafing.

For the Record:

16 F4Us (NZ 23 (8) 1030) load 1x1000 dr. 16x1000
            (NZ 15 (8) 1040)

SEARCHES FOR 11 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative except for friendly shipping and the weather was reported good. The percentage of track for the three sectors was as follows: Tare 95, Uncle 100, Victor 40 (having returned early because of engine trouble). The percentage of cover was: Tare and uncle 100, Vector 40.
Brewer searches were negative with full track. Sector Able attained 90 percent cover with generally good weather; Sector Baker 70 percent cover in fair weather with occational rain squalls.
A special Piva Ventura search was made along the New Britain coast to Gasmata. There was no sign of enemy activity. Drina strip appeared unserviceable except possibly for small planes. Another special search by an Emirau PV was made of New Ireland and from Open Bay to Talasea on New Britain with negative results.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ 3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB 137) Admiraltie 300 mile search sectors.
1 PV-1 (NZ 3) Piva special Wide Bay - Gasmata search.
1 PV-1 (NZ 3) Emirau special Open Bay - Talasea and New Ireland search.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 13 November 1944.

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(71 sorties-14 1/2 tons)

Huts Destroyed Near Kapavinavi: Huts in the vicinity of Kapavinavi (S. Bougainville) were bombed by 39 Piva F4Us. The majority of planes failed to discover the Kapavinavi stockade, which was their primary target; and they attacked huts to the west and south of it. Results of the bombing were for the most part unobserved. However, a group of 6 huts south of Kapavinavi was seen to be completely destroyed; and another hut was demolished, and three more were probably damaged, Just N. of Lamausi. Huts in these areas, and between Kieta and Koromira, were strafed with unobserved results.

For the Record:

39 F4Us NZ 15(12) 0815
            NZ 23(11) 0815 load 1x500 dr 38x500.
       VMO 251(16) 0840

Bombing and Strafing Attacks: A variety of targets in Bougainville were hit by 20 New Zealand F4Us, 12 of which flew the Able-Charlie search. Eight of these 12 F4Us carried quarter-tonners, with which they destroyed a hut at Ratsoa and scored near misses on huts at Fatokuri (SW of Kieta). Strafing attacks during the search caused an explosion (with black smoke to 200 ft.) and destroyed a whaleboat on the beach at Tulean plantation, W. Buka; and killed a Nip at Mataunkei. One burst of inaccurate medium (20mm) was received from Chinatown. The remaining 8 F4Us dropped three quarter-tonners on the possible site of a camouflaged building NE of Ratsoa; destroyed one hut and damaged 5 between Iwi and Kekere; strafed and killed 2 Nips at Lontis; and strafed and hit a hut at Pau plantation.

For the Record:

              NZ 15(12) 1200 1x1000(4) 4x1000
20 F4US NZ 23(8) 1025-1120 load 1x500 (12) dr 12x500.

NEW IRELAND
(67 sorties-29 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: On the Kavieng-north New Ireland patrols, 10 Emirau F4Us destroyed huts, cratered gardens and killed live-stock in Dampit plantation, and bombed Panapai strip, Kavieng strip, Ray and Kimidan plantations with unobserved results. A number of cattle were killed by strafing. The first patrol returned to base with its bombs, and the afternoon patrol was weathered.
On dawn and dusk patrols, 2 PVs destroyed huts and started fires S. of Dallum, and bombed Dallum and Bulu.

For the Record:

10 F4Us VMF 313 0540-1920 load 1x250 dr 10x250.
2 PVs NZ 3 0630-0844(1)
                1555-1900(1) load 6x250 dr 12x250

NEW BRITAIN
(14 sorties-6 1/2 tons)

SEARCHES FOR 12 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative with full track and cover and weather reported fair to good. Brewer searches were negative. Sector Able was flown out 280 miles and attained 60 percent cover with bad weather during the first 100 miles and good there after. Baker went full distance with 60 percent cover in fair weather.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 14 November 1944.

NEW BRITAIN
(108 sorties-50 tons)

NEW IRELAND
(43 sorties-11 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: The Kavieng-north New Ireland patrols were maintained from 0545 until 1910 by 14 Emirau F4Us. Each carrying 2 250-pounders, the planes bombed Kavieng, Medina, Roland Young plantation and Kaut. A part from the destruction of one hut at Roland Young plantation, results were unobserved. Two planes were holed by bomb shrapnel, but no A/A was observed.
Making dawn and dusk sweeps, 2 PVs destroyed 4 inhabited huts at Patlangat and 10 inhabited huts near the beach W. of Cape Lemeris. At least 10 Nips were believed killed in the latter target. A large fire at Lossu was bombed and increased in intensity.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 115 0545-1910 load 2x250 dr 26x250.
2 PVs NZ 3 0628-0940(1) load 6x250 dr 12x250.
                1550-1910(1)

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(73 sorties-13 tons)

Fourth Strike Against Ratsoa: The fourth of a series of strikes against a reported Nip brigade headquarters at Ratsoa was carried out by 39 F4Us, all of which carried quarter-tonners.
Results were unobserved except for one burst of flame 150 ft. above the trees. Good coverage was reported. Strafing in the general area-at Soraken and Pau plantations, Tarongen, Tosiavi, Torokori Island and Ruri Bay-killed one Nip. At Tosiavi one Nip fired at an F4U—unsuccessfully. Photos taken after the strike shewed the Ratsoa target area well covered with bomb hits. Results were obscured by jungle.

For the Record:

          VMF 212(16) 0800
39 F4Us NZ 23 (11) 0830 load 1x500 dr 38x500.
            NZ 15 (12) 0815

Huts And Gardens Bombed: Huts and gardens in Bougainville were bombed by 16 Piva F4Us. Dropping quarter-tonners, they cratered a garden in Soraken plantation; bombed a group of huts 4 miles inland from Tulean plantation (W. Buka); destroyed 2 huts in Potai Bay (W. Shortland Is.) and 3 huts at Koromira plantation. Their strafing attacks riddled a possibly serviceable (and well camouflaged) barge on the shore by Lalahan plantation; hit 6 or 7 huts at Mt. Bei (W. Buka); killed 2 Nips, and probably six others, at Kessa Plantation; burned 2 huts on Farumo Is.

For the Record:

16 F4Us NZ 23 (4) 1020-1235 load 1x500 dr 15x500.
            NZ 15 (12) 1020-1310

SEARCHES FOR 13 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative with full track and cover in average weather. Brewer searches were negative with full track and averaging 90 percent cover in both sectors. The weather was reported good. Four Green PBJs flew special anti-submarine searches over the Open Bay and Matchin Bay areas the night of 12/13 November. One plane bombed a hull at Hete Reef, north of Ubili airdrome, thinking it was a submarine. Otherwise the searches were negative. One plane was holed five times, moderate accurate light A/A being received from Suhane Island, Matchin Bay.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.
4 PBJ-1D (VMB-423) Special anti-submarine searches.
(1750-1927 and 0330-0645), load 16x325 DB, dr. 4x325 DB, One plane damaged.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 15 November 1944.

NEW BRITAIN
(75 sorties-25 tons)

Kurakakaul Supply Area: A large building and supply area in Kurakakaul plantation (Talili Bay) was attacked by 23 Piva F4Us and 14 SBDs with 12 tons of bombs.
All flights reported good coverage, with smoke and foliage obscuring results. Both F4Us and SBDs strafed the target area end the coast of Talili Bay.
One flight of F4Us reported possible MG fire from Tunnel Hill road, and the SBDs observed MG fire near the target area. The PV on the Torokina-Rabaul sweep confirmed the fact that the SBDs bombs fell in the target area, and reported seeing MG fire directed at the SBDs from east coast of Watom Island.

For the Record:

             NZ 23(11) 0940
23 F4Us NZ 15(12) 0945 load 1x500 dr 22x500.
14 SBDs VMSB 133 1010 load 1x500 14x500
                                            2x250 dr 23x250.

NEW IRELAND
(31 sorties-16 tons)

Huts and Bivouac Areas Bombed: Huts and plantation bivouac areas in New Ireland were bombed by 9 PBJs, 7 F4Us and 3 PVs from Emirau and Green.
The Luburua plantation area was attacked by 4 Emirau F4Us and 9 PBJs with 10 1/2 tons. The F4Us cratered the garden area, and the PBJs reported good coverage of the whole target with bombs and strafing. Three PVs from Emirau dropped 18 250-pounders into the Balgai Bay area, but results were obscured by jungle. Huts at Kombon were bombed by 3 Green F4Us, with unobserved results. The planes dropped quarter-tonners.

For the Record:

4 F4Us VMF 313 0958 load 1x1000 dr 3x1000.
9 PBJs VMB 413 1004 load 8x250 dr 72x250.
3 PVs NZ 3 1000 load 6x250 dr 18x250.
3 F4Us NZ 20 1400 load 1x500 dr 3x500.

North New Ireland Patrols: The morning patrols of north New Ireland were flown in poor to bad weather, and the 4 afternoon patrols had to be cancelled.
Dropping eighth-tonners, the 8 F4Us on patrol damaged several huts at Lebrechtshof plantation, and strafed and burned a Betty which they observed in a field between Balgai and Kaut. No report was made on the condition of the Betty, which was presumably unserviceable. Moderate, inaccurate medium (20mm) A/A was encountered between Kaut and Balgai.
Flying a dawn sweep of New Ireland, a PV scored hits on a large building in Waum plantation. Another PV on the dusk sweep was forced back, with its bombs, by bad weather.

For the Record:

8 F4Us VMF 211 0620-1115 load 1x250 dr 8x250.
2 PVs NZ 3 load 6x250 dr 6x250.

BOUGAINVILLE
(29 sorties-1 1/2 tons)

Opportunity Targets: Opportunity targets in Bougainville were attacked by 10 Piva F4Us, 6 of which carried quarter-tonners. The bombs were dropped on a bridge N. of Kieta strip, which was not further damaged and on the main ford over the Mibo river. The F4Us strafed and apparently killed 2 Nips on Nusakoa Island; killed 1 Nip near Aku; completely burned a truck at Laguai; produced four bright orange flashes from the neighbourhood of a probable camouflaged 5" gun at Moila point; strafed an LMG position, three possible dummy guns and a possible 3" gun position on Maifu Island; and strafed and holed a 20 ft. canoe at Nusave Island.

For the Record:

10 F4Us NZ 15 1225-1550 load 1x500(6) dr 6x500.

Bougainville Patrols: Five 2-plane Bougainville patrols, incorporating the Able-Charlie search, were flown by VMF 212. The 10 F4Us strafed huts, gardens, caves, and cooking fires in many areas. They fired 2 huts W. of Kieta, holed a possibly serviceable 25 ft. metal camouflaged barge on the beach at Cape Lalahan, and smoked two 45 ft. barges of the ramp type hidden under a cliff at Tiaraka.
Meagre, inaccurate (trailing) light (12.7mm) A/A, with tracer, was received from a clearing at Hahela, and meagre, inaccurate light fire from Ballale strip.
An FMAW TBF dropped 12,000 propaganda leaflets from Mosigetta to Monoitu and at Kieta. 
The dawn and dusk patrols, and the Torokina-Rabaul sweep were negative. The dawn patrol saw 2 small barges off Cape Moltke.

For the Record:

10 F4Us VMF 212 0609-1805 Bougainville patrols. Strafing.
8 F4Us VMF 212 0609-0700(4) Dawn and dusk patrols.
                        1732-1803(4)
1 PV NZ 3 0835-1145 Torokina-Rabaul sweep.

SEARCHES FOR 14 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak Baker 31 searches were negative with full track and 90 percent cover. Showers and general overcast were reported in all three sectors. Brewer searches proved negative with full track and averaging 83 percent cover. The weather was below average during the first third of the way out in both sectors and good thereafter.
The Green PBJ special anti-submarine patrols reported negative.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.
4 PBJ-1D (VMB-423) Special anti-submarine searches.
               (1800-1930, 0445-0645), load 16x325 DB.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 16 November 1944

NEW BRITAIN
(106 sorties - 45 tons)

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(36 sorties - 3 1/2 tons)

Lake Loloru Huts Bombed: Huts in the Lake Loloru area and at Kapavinavi were attacked by 18 Piva F4Us each carrying a quarter-tonner. The only observed results were 2 huts destroyed at Lake
Loloru. Two of the bombs were duds, another was jettisoned and a fourth returned. In strafing attacks the F4Us killed 2 Nips S of Cape Friendship and one NE of Puk Puk.

For the Record:

18 F4Us NZ 15 0800(10) load 1x500 dr. 14x500
                      1030(8)

NEW IRELAND
(20 sorties - 4 1/2 tons)

North New Ireland Patrols: Fourteen Emirau F4Us maintained the Kavieng patrols from 0540 till 1920. They straddled and strafed a launch towing four 30 ft. barges in Lossuk inlet (apparently without damaging any of the boats); bombed Korabin, Malapai point and Kaut Bay with unobserved results; cratered Kavieng strip; and scored 2 near misses on Balus plantation bridge.
Two Emirau PVs on dawn and dusk sweeps destroyed huts and started fires at Panaras, Patlangat and Katanu plantations and cratered a garden at Karmiraba. Several huts in Kombon plantation were destroyed by 4 Green F4Us, each of which carried a quarter tonner.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 313 0540-1920 load 1x250(12) dr. 12x250
                                                   1x500(2) 2x500
2 PVs NZ 3 0600-0929(1) " 6x250 " 12x250
                1537-1847(1)
4 F4Us NZ 20 0900-1000 " 1x500 " 4x500

SEARCHES FOR 15 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative with full track and cover in fair to good weather. Brewer searches were likewise negative going full distance and attaining complete cover. Ceiling and visibility were reported unlimited in both sectors. The special anti-submarine patrols reported negative results. Three of the PBJs had full coverage, but the first plane was weathered out of Open Bay. One bright light was observed on Suhane Island; and in an inlet near Chabai a 75-100 ft. possibly serviceable boat with partial canvas covering was seen.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile search sectors.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile search sectors.
4 PBJ-1D (VMB-423) Special anti-submarine patrols.
1800-1930 and 0530-0650, load 16x325 DB.

[aircraftclocks]

WEEKLY REPORT OF AIRCRAFT AND PILOT AVAILABILITY FOR WEEK ENDING TUESDAY, 14 NOVEMBER, 1944.

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

ADMIRALTIES

VF-79 (RAAF)                                  10 SPIT-5                             9                     18                    VF-79
VS-61                                             15 SBD                               14                    18                    VS-61
                                                       2 J2F-6                               2
VPB-52                                           15 PBY-5                            14                     53                     VPB-52
VPB-137                                         15 PV-1                                8                     38                     VPB-137
FAW-10                                            6 PBY-5                              2                     16                     HEDRON-10
                                                       2 PBM-3                              1

EMIRAU

VMF-115                                         21 F4U                               19                     42                     VMF-115
VMF-211                                         22 F4U-1D                          22                     36                     VMF-211
VMF-313                                         22 FG-1A                            21                     30                     VMF-313
VMSB-142                                       20 SBD-6                           20                     37                     VMSB-142
VMSB-243                                       25 SBD-5                           25                     39                     VMSB-243
VMB-413                                         11 PBJ-1D                          11                     47                     VMB-413
VMB-433                                         11 PBJ-1D                          11                     42                     VMB-433
VMB-443                                         10 PBJ-1D                            9                     41                    VMB-443
VMB-611                                         12 PBJ-1D                          12                     26                    SS-61
NZ-3                                               16 PV-1                             16                     16                     NZ #10 S.U.

GREEN

VMF-218                                         15 F4U                               15                    28                     VMF-218
VMF-222                                         12 F4U                               12                    36                     VMF-222
VMSB-244                                       25 SBD-5                           25                    39                     VMSB-244
VMSB-341                                       21 SBD-6                           21                    44                     VMSB-341
VMB-423                                         10 PBJ-1D                          10                    41                     VMB-423
VPB-44                                           15 PBY-5A                          11                    57                     PATSU 1-11
NZ-20                                             18 F4U-1D                         18                    26                     NZ # 3 S.U.
NZ-1                                               14 PV-1                              0                     14                     NZ #14 S.U.

BOUGAINVILLE

VMO-251                                         22 F4U-1D                        22                    34                     VMO-251
VMF-212                                         21 F4U                              21                    37                     VMF-212
VMF-223                                         21 F4U                              20                    34                     VMF-223
VMSB-133                                       21 SBD-6                          21                    20                     VMSB-133
VMSB-236                                       24 SBD-6                          24                    46                     VMSB-236
VMR-152                                         16 R4D-5                          12                    65                     VMR-152
VMR-153                                         15 R4D-5                          12                    66                     VMR-153
17TH PHOTO                                     5 F5A                                5                     8                     17TH PHOTO
                                                        1 RA-24B                          1
NZ-15                                             18 F4U                              18                   27                     NZ # 2 S.U.
NZ-23                                             19 F4U                              18                   24                     NZ # 4 S.U.

MUNDA

VMSB-241                                       22 SBD-6                          22                   50                     VMSB-241

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 17 November 1944.

NEW BRITAIN
(62 sorties-17 tons)

Gazelle Peninsula Sweeps: As the Gazelle peninsula was reserved in the morning for the use of Nadzab planes, only the three afternoon sweeps were carried out. One each was flown by VMF 212, VMF 223 and NZ 15. The F4Us on the Duke of York-Pondo sweep dropped their bombs on huts and buildings at Pondo plantation. The extent of the damage was unobserved. Strafing attacks were made against this target and Keravat strip. Meagre, inaccurate light A/A was encountered at Keravat. The Cape Gazelle-Lemingi sweep damaged 2 huts west of Rapui and bombed another group of huts NW of Malabunga with unobserved results. Targets of opportunity along the line of the sweep were strafed.
Planes on the Put Put-Keravat sweep destroyed one hut at Molot (Duke of York Is.), strafed huts and 4 or 5 trucks on the Keravat-Napapar road with unobserved results, killed a Jap E. of Tobera plantation, and damaged a wooden hut at Warangoi. One plane, unable to retract its landing gear, dropped its quarter-tonner or Soraken plantation (NW Bougainville) and returned to base.

For the Record:

12 F4Us VMF 212(4) 1420-1515
VMF 223 (4) 1515-1545 load 1x500(11) dr 11x500.
NZ 15 (4) 1250-1640

NEW IRELAND
(49 sorties-12 1/2 tons)

Buildings and Bridges in S. New Ireland: Targets in southern New Ireland-mainly buildings and bridges—were attacked by 18 SBDs and 15 F4Us from Green. Apart from the routine patrols, Emirau planes were on training. Dropping 3 650-pound depth charges and 14 quarter-tonners, the SBDs damaged buildings 3 miles SE of Cape Sena and bombed the area of gun positions at Cape Sena. Seven bursts of possible medium A/A were encountered at about 2000 ft. over Cape Sena.
Huts at Kianbi plantation were possibly damaged by 8 F4Us with 2 tons of bombs. They reported a few flashes of medium A/A with tracer from Namatanai.
Bridges were the target for another strike of 7 F4Us each of which carried a quarter-ton bomb. They cratered a road at Nakudukudu Bay and fired a truck at Chinese plantation.

For the Record:

18 SBDs VMSB 341 1150 load 1x650 D.C.(3) 3x650
                                                  1x500 (15) dr 14x500.
8 F4Us NZ 20 0850-0950 load 8x500.
                    1425-1540
7 F4Us VMF 218 1320-1440 load 1x500 7x500.
                        1505-1640

North New Ireland Patrols: The full scheule of north New Ireland patrols was flown by 14 F4Us from Emirau. They reported damaging bridges at Dallum and Kimidan plantations, destroying a hut at Kolube plantation and strafing a possible barge hide-out at Cape Bolegila. Meagre, inaccurate MG fire was received from an inlet 300 yds. N. of Bolegila.
Making dawn and dusk sweeps, 2 PVs destroyed one hut and damaged 14 at Cape Lemeris, started a fire at Patlangat plantation, increased a fire at Lamernewei plantation and cratered roads at Panatgin and Fangelawa.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 115 0610-1925 load 1x250 (12) 12x250
                                                 1x500(2) dr 2x500.
2 PVs NZ 3 0552-0903(1) load 6x250(1) dr 6x250
                1557-1856(1) 6x500 (1) dr 6x500.

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(18 sorties-0 tons)

Bougainville Patrols: Five Bougainville patrols, incorporating the Able-Charlie search, and the dawn and dusk patrols were flown by F4Us of NZ 15.
The planes strafed a reported gun position at Moila point, producing a 30 ft. bright orange flash together with flames and smoke. They holed a 14 ft. iron boat on the beach at Maifu Island; destroyed a 30 ft. whale-boat at Cape Dunganon (NW Buka); strafed and damaged a 20 ft. canoe on the water at Tung (SW Buka); sank an empty black dinghy 3 miles NW of Aiaisina Island; and sank a 12 ft. canoe on the water off Arovo Island, near Kieta. Huts were strafed at Cape Hatsia and on Nusave Island.
Two Nips were killed at Kieta, one at Tarara, and one at Rorovana Bay. The dawn and dusk patrols were negative.
A Green pilot returning from Torokina reported seeing 3 barges and 1 larger craft in an inlet just N. of Massungon Island (W. of Buka).

For the Record:

10 F4Us NZ 15 0600-1620 Bougainville patrols. Strafing only.
8 F4Us NZ 15 0555-0715(4)
                    1708-1800(4) Dawn and dusk patrols.

SEARCHES FOR 16 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative with full track and cover in good weather. Brewer searches likewise reported negative with full track. Able attained 90 percent cover in generally good weather, Baker 70 percent in partly cloudy weather. The special PBJ anti-submarine patrols were negative. The second patrol did have a blip of a possible airborne bogey on two occasions, but no contact was made. Returning to base the planes dropped their bombs on Vunakanau, Lakunai, Vulcan Crater barge hideout, Cape St. George, and Cape Sena.
Charcoal cooperated with PTs in areas Foyle-Belfast and bombed and flared Ray Plantation as well as Bagaterre Harbor. Tarbaby bombed and flared Huru Point and Tambakar, are Uncle, along with Put Put, Cape Palliser, and Merai, area Peter. There were a few bursts of medium A/A from the south coast of Duke of York Island and two bursts of heavy from Cape St. George. Communication and cooperation were very good.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile sector searches.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile sector searches.
2 PBY-5A (VPB-44) PT Cooperation, 2207-0310, load 6x500 GP
                                                                            2x500 Incend.
                                                                           31x20 Frags. dr 6x500 GP 2x500 Incend.
                                                                           31x20 Frags.
4 PBJ-1D (VMB-423) Special anti-submarine patrol, 1000-2100, 2200-0038, 0110-0300, 0405-0630, load 16x325 DB dr 16x325.

[aircraftclocks]

Day Ending 0800 18 November 1944.

NEW BRITAIN
(68 sorties - 30 tons)

Barges Destroyed on Gazelle Peninsula Sweeps: Nip personnel unloading 6 barges in N. Keravia Bay were surprised by 4 F4Us of NZ 15 on the Duke of York-Pondo sweep at 1240 yesterday.
In a strafing attack, they killed 3 or more Nips and set all 6 barges on fire. The barges, which were still partly loaded, were left burning furiously. Stacks of stores piled on the beach were strafed, a 20 ft. launch was set on fire, and black smoke from the whole area rose to 100 ft. 
The same 4 planes killed 2 other Nips and set fire to a quarter acre of dry crops, apparently rice; strafed 2 camouflaged barges near Raluana Point and a parked truck on the coastal road at Talili Bay; and set fire to 2 tin-roofed camouflaged huts. They sighted 4 25 ft. wooded barges — camouflaged and possibly serviceable — on the beach at Kokopo. One burst of inaccurate, light A/A was received from Matanatar.
By comparison, the other patrols were uneventful. One truck on the coastal road N. of Keravat, and another on the road between Napapar and Malabunga were burned. A bivouac area at Talili Bay was bombed, as was a possible supply dump at the mouth of the Kabanga river. A Nip was killed at Ralum, another on Napapar road, and serval vehicles and huts were strafed with unobserved results. Two huts were destroyed at Wurawunkur.
Both Put Put-Keravat sweeps reported MG fire from the mouth of the Warengoi river, and one plane was holed.
Observations included a new bridge under construction on a road 4 miles SE of Keravat strip; tunnelling operations on the SE side of a hill S. of Keravat strip (this locality was strafed and a fire was started); a crashed plane (believed to be an old SBD) in the Warengoi river; and many supply dumps in a ravine 2 miles inland from Ralum.

For the Record:

23 F4Us NZ 15 0700-1605 load 1x500 dr. 19x500 1 plane damaged.

BOUGAINVILLE AND BUKA
(81 sorties - 20 tons)

NEW IRELAND
(53 sorties - 28 1/2 tons)

Plantation Areas Hit: Targets in New Ireland were attacked by 16 F4Us and 17 PBJs from Emirau and 4 F4Us from Green. Weathered out of their primary target, Dallum plantation, 8 Emirau F4Us dropped their half-tonners on Kavieng (with unobserved results), and 9 PBJs covered Panatgin and Suma plantations and the Cape Lemeris area with 58 260-pound frags.
The Lamussong area was hit by 8 Emirau F4Us and 8 PBJs with a total of 11 1/2 tons. The area was well covered, and a near miss was scored on a bridge, which was strafed.
Meagre, inaccurate light fire was encountered from positions near Katendan and Lamussong plantations.
The PBJs sighted a possible dye-marker one mile off shore at Lamussong, also a parachute hanging in the trees NW of Pinikindu point.
Four Green F4Us made a morning sweep of Southern New Ireland, where they cratered a road at Belik plantation and strafed and holed a house at Komalu plantation.

For the Record:

8 F4Us VMF 115) (load 1x1000 dr. 8x1000
9 PBJs VMB 413) 1400 ( " 8x260 frags " 58x260
8 F4Us VMF 115) ( " 1x1000 " 7x1000
8 PBJs VMB 433) 1002 ( " 8x250 " 64x250
4 F4Us NZ 20 0900 " 1x500 " 4x500

North New Ireland Patrols: The Kavieng patrols were flown by 14 F4Us and 2 PVs carried out dawn and dusk sweeps. Results of their bombing and strafing attacks were in all cases unobserved.
One PV received moderate, inaccurate MG fire from Cape Lemeris.

For the Record:

14 F4Us VMF 211 0630-1721 load 1x500(2) dr. 2x500
                                                 1x250(12) 12x250
2 PVs NZ 3 0600-0822(1)
                1604-1859(1) load 5x500 " 10x500

SEARCHES FOR 17 NOVEMBER

Beefsteak searches were negative, except for friendly shipping, with full track and cover in good weather. Brewer searches were likewise negative with full track in both sectors. Able attained 90 percent cover in average weather while Baker had 85 percent cover meeting intermittent showers.
Two Green PBYs flew the anti-submarine patrols with negative results the night of 16/17 November. One of the two planes available for the patrol was forced to return to base with mechanical trouble without reaching the area. All bombs were jettisoned.
Charcoal and Sambo were cancelled in favor of the anti-submarine patrol, but Tarbaby bombed Sum Sum plantation for the second successive night and then returned early because of weather.

For the Record:

3 PV-1 (NZ-3) Emirau 300 mile sector searches.
2 PV-1 (VPB-137) Admiralties 300 mile sector searches.
1 PBY-5A (VPB-44) PT cooperation 2125-2225,
load 3x500 G.P. dr. 2x500 G.P.
       1x500 incend 9x20 frags
       9x20 frags 1x500 G.P. jettisoned
                       1x500 Incend "
2 PBY-5A (VPB-44) Anti-submarine patrol 2200-0200, load 6x325DB (jettisoned).