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Post by aircraftclocks on Oct 28, 2020 11:13:00 GMT 12
Just realised I have some action reports from 31 Sqn missions and given they are closely associated with the Piva thread I have started. I will publish them, running the 2 together when the dates line up. You will see that the crew members are stated. I will not publish the names of those who were not flying RNZAF aircraft.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Oct 28, 2020 11:19:15 GMT 12
Struck - 27 May 1944.
TARGET: Gun Positions, Hospital Ridge, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: Lt. (jg) R.S. Heebner, USNR.
SQUADRON: VT.305 - 12 planes
NZTB-31 - 6 planes
PLACES & LOADING: 18 planes each with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, instantaneous
TIMES: T.O. 0740; T.O.T. 0931; Landed 1112.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 24 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached the Target Area from the S.E., at 14,000'; they crossed the New Britain coast North of Laweo Point, turned left, peeled off to the left, pushed over at 11,000, and dove toward the S.E., and released between 2000' and 5000' indicated
SUMMARY OR RESULTS: Of the 216 x 100 lb, bombs carried, 180 were dropped through the cloud over the Target Area, 30 were jettisoned, 3 dropped on Gredner Island, 2 on the Dulce of York, and 1 returned to base. Minor Strafing was carried out against the gun positions, area East of the Target, and Gredner Island.
WEATHER: En route - 4/10th cumulo-nimbus, base
5000' and building up to 20,000'. Over Target - 10/10th cumulus, base 2000'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Known positions of Auto and Heavy fire on Hospital Ridge, in the town, and North of Lakunai, were active, firing meagrely to moderately but inaccurately. 2 New Positions were reported; one of moderate automatic fire from among the hospital buildings on the Ridge, and one of MG fire on the coast East of the Mother.
2. Enemy Shipping: An unidentified boat, possibly a PT boat, was reported 1 mile West of Lebeau Island, South part of Matchin Bay, Course 330ยบ One Barge, estimated to be 80' long, and apparently Serviceable, was reported off the N.E. shore of Gredner Island.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Smoke was seen over the Target, but the cloud cover prevented accurate assessment of the damage. One explosion with black smoke was observed from the South end of Hospital Ridge.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination was reported, but the cloud cover prevented the spotting of SBD hits. There was good cessation of fire from the Ridge Gun Positions.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
NZ 513 Holmes Lesley, Alexander
.. 544 Worsp Goss, Williams
.. 518 Stevenson Norman, Sole
.. 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
.. 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
.. 517 Lamason Pedersen, Whitmarsh
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Post by Dave Homewood on Oct 28, 2020 14:08:41 GMT 12
This will be very interesting. Thanks!
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Post by aircraftclocks on Oct 29, 2020 11:10:41 GMT 12
Struck - 28 May 1944.
TARGET: Vunakanau Runway, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: Lt. (jg) Harlan. C. McFadden, USNR.
SQUADRON: VT-305 - 12 planes
NZTB-31 - 6 planes
PLANES LOADING: 18 planes ordered - 17 planes attacked - each with 4 x 500 lb bombs, 25/1000th seconds delay.
TIMES: T.O. 0810; T.O.T. 0947; Landed 1147.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 24 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: N.Z. plane # 544 - Shrapnel holes in both Wings and stabiliser & elevator shot up. N.Z. plane # 2530 failed to return from the attack.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: N.Z. plane # No. 2530 - Pilot, F/Lt M.R. Greenslade, RNZAF; Navigator, Lt. J.C. Morrison D.S.C., RNZNVR; Gunner; F/Sgt W.G.A. McCloud, RNZAF - were the crew of the missing aircraft, Plane # 18 - Radioman, R.V. Bland, ARM 2/c USNR, received body burns from a hot shell casing.
N.Z. plane # 544 - Navigator, F/Sgt A.H. Goodison, RNZAF, received a back injury due to a shell blast.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation flew up the Warangoi River 14,500', turned Right when past Tobera, peeled off to the left, pushed over between 10,000' and 13,000', and released when
heading N.W. over the R/W between 3500'/4500' indicated. Retirement was made over Ataliklikun Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 63 x 500 lb. bombs dropped, 20 were reported to be direct hits on the P? 15 were confirmed direct, 20 unobserved. 5 missed, 1 jettisoned, & 1 returned to Base, 4 dropped on Vunakamtai Plantation after failing to release over the Target, and 4 unaccounted for, being carried by N.Z. plane 2530.
Strafing was carried out during retirement against huts and the Automatic Gun Position at the N.W. end of the R/W.
WEATHER: En route - 8/10th cumulo-nimbus, base 300' and towering to 16,000'. Over Target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS: 1. A/A-Aircraft Fire: Known positions of Naval, Heavy and Automatic fire were reported from both Vunakanau and Tobera, the latter putting bursts up to 14,000'. There was an intense barrage at 8500' over the Target. The fire was fairly accurate. A New Automatic Position was firing intense and accurately, hitting N.Z. plane # 544, from a position just North of the Mouth of the Tabaule River.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of R/W Before & After Attacks The leading planes said the R/W was definite. Unserviceable before the attack. Good coverage was reported over the Target, leaving it even more Unserviceable.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was said to be poor, resulting in the TBFs delaying at 120 K. at 14,500', thereby drawing fire from Tobera. No SBD hits were observed.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: Three PT boats were reported on Course 090ยบ, South of Cape St. George.
SPECIAL REPORT: N.Z. plane # 2530 failed to return from the attack. The pilot, NZ1225, F/Lt. M.R. Greenslade, RNZAF; Navigator, Lt. J.C. Morrison, D.S.C., RNZNVR; and gunner, NZ425766, F/Sgt W.G.A. McCloud, RNZAF, were the crew of the missing plane. It is believed, though no witnesses are positive, that the plane crashed shortly after passing over the N.W. end of the R/W.
At the time of this report, Dumbo is searching for the missing crew.
Plane No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Wilkes McIver, Loftus
. . 530+ +Greenslade Morrison, McCloud
. . 533 Stephenson Weir, Walker, J
. . 540 Prior Clayton, Scarlett
. . 544 Le Lievre Goodison, Alcock
. . 518 Kissell Scott, Bower
+ Did Not Return.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Oct 30, 2020 11:02:54 GMT 12
Struck - 29 May 1944.
TARGET: Supply Area, Nordup, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FIGHT-LEADER: Lt. (jg) L.S. Conner, USNR.
SQUADRON: VT-305 - 6 planes
NZTB-31 - 6 planes
PLANES & LOADING: 12 planes, each with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, instantaneous fuze.
TIMES: T.O. 0650; T.O.T. 0820; landed 0???
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 36 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: One plane # 2510 - shell blast damage to starboard wing root.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached the Target Area via the Duke of York Island, a 12,500'. They turned left after crossing the New Britain shore at Taweo Point, peeling off to the left pushing over at 8,000', & releasing between 1500'/3500'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 48 x 500 lb. bombs carried, 45 were reported hits in the area, 1 was Jettisoned & 2 Returned to Base Huts at Obai Mission & along the Pass ? retirement to the S.E. of the target area, were Strafed.
WEATHER: En route - To St. George's Channel 5/10th cumulus, between 1000'/8000' Over St. George's Channel 9/10th Cumulus, same altitude. Over Target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre & inaccurate Heavy & Auto fire was reported from Known Positions at Hospital Ridge, and the Target Area. One New Auto Position, also firing meagrely & inaccurately, was observed near the shore road at the S.E. corner of the Target Area.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Smoke & debris were seen over the Target, good coverage being reported with the greatest concentration of fire in the central section of the area.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination was reported, causing an excellent cessation of fire. SBD hits were seen near the Heavy position just North of Government House, & near the Auto position in the N.E. corner of the Target Area causing a large explosion and immediate cessation of fire.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
Plane No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 520 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 508 Aitchison Matheson, Walker A.F.
. . 521 Halford Waters, Blackie
. . 525 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 533 Rollo Walker M.J., Powell
. . 510 Jackson Smith, Walker, E.C.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Oct 30, 2020 11:23:03 GMT 12
Carried out - 29 May 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at Tokapa and Sauiu Plantation; and Targets of Opportunity.
MISSION: Spray gardens; & bomb and strafe Targets of Opportunity
FLIGHT-LEADER: A - Ens. W.E. Chitty, USNR.
B - Lt. (jg) D.E. White, USNR.
C - Ens. W.E. Chitty, USNR.
SQUADRON: VT-305 - 2 planes & NZTB-31 - 1 plane on all three flights.
PLANES & LOADINGS: All three flights - 2 planes each with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks and 1 plane with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, 4-5 seconds delay.
TIMES: A - T.O. 0745; Landed 0910.
B - T.O. 1047; Landed 1203.
C - T.O. 1558; Landed 1447/1510.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: One single-engined plane that had crashed, possibly fairly recently, was seen on the shore with its engine on a nearby reef.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: Three flights were carried out, the two planes with the oil spraying from about 50' altitude. The bombing plane made runs on huts, bridges and garden areas, releasing the bombs between 50'/200'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 36 x 100 lb. bombs carried, 3 were dropped near huts, S.E. corner of Tinputs Harbour, damaging several; 3 were dropped on huts at Tinputs Mission, destroying 2; 5 at bridges near Aravia, Destroying one; 5 at pier ?' x 20', E. side of Soraken Hbr.; 10 in garden area at Tokapa with unobserved results; 7 others unobserved were dropped near Papas and Tekekut. 2 were Returned to Base, and 1 was Jettisoned. The areas bombed were also Strafed.
4 gardens, totalling about 5 acres, were completely sprayed.
WEATHER: Morning - En route: 2/10th stratus between 1000'/2000'. Target Area: Hazy.
Afternoon - En route: 9/10th nimbo-stratus, base 1000'; Target Area: 10/10th covered hazy; Wind E.N.E., about 40K.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: 2 Known barge hulks N.W. of Ruri Bay.
3. Enemy Activity: Roads in north section Bougainville appeared to be frequently used and in good condition. Many small garden plots of about 1 acre each were seen in vicinity of Northern end of Emperor Range, & in the area to the Westward.
4. Miscellaneous Reports: Plane # 17 1ost the pipe extension of his spray tank, during his run over a garden during the last flight.
Plane No. Pilot Crew
A.
N.Z. 522 Holmes Kelsey, Alexander
B.
N.Z. 522 Le Lievre Murphy, Alcock
C.
N.Z. 522 Holmes Kelsey, Jackson
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Post by aircraftclocks on Oct 31, 2020 1:01:40 GMT 12
Carried out - 30 May 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at Baniu Plantation, North Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens, and Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: P/O F.W. Holmes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 planes.
PLANES & LOADING: 2 aircraft each loaded, with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tank.
TIMES: T.O. 1312; T.O.T. 1400; Landed 1436.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: Oil was sprayed from 50' altitude, and Strafing was carried out from 100'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: An area of approximately 2 acres, on the Western side of Baniu Harbour, was well covered by spray. Baniu Harbour area and huts in the vicinity were well-strafed. Results not observed.
WEATHER: En route: 8/10th cumulo-nimbus & stratus, very dense and a low base of 500'/600'. Target Area: 7-8/10th cumulo-nimbus and Stratus. Base 3000'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. A/A Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: The road between Pau Plantation and Siar previously damaged by bombs had been repaired with new planking over the crater.
4. Observation of Garden Plots: Gardens in Siar area, of 2 - 3 acres, appeared green and in good condition. Tokapa gardens were fairly green but showed several brown patches.
5. Miscellaneous Reports: Plane # 2522 developed a leak on the way up and only a small portion of the oil remained when the a/c was nearing the Target area. This was sprayed on a small garden just West of Siar.
Plane No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Holmes Kelsey, Alexander
. . 522 Le Lievree Goodison, Alcock
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Post by aircraftclocks on Oct 31, 2020 12:42:09 GMT 12
Struck - 31 May 1944.
TARGET: Talili Bay Supply Area, New Britain. Target 202 A.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt C.G.G. Prior, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 planes.
A/C & LOADING: 12 planes, each with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, Inst. fuze.
TIMES: T.O. 0935; T.O.T. 1100; Landed 1300.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 12 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: Plane # N.Z. 2521 was lost.
PERSONNEL CASULATIES: Plane # N.Z. 2521 - Pilot: Sgt. Trolove, W.A. RNZAF. Navigator: F/Sgt Harsant, M.A., RNZAF. Gunner: F/Sgt Brown, F.H., RNZAF - were the crew of the missing a/c.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached from the South up the Warangoi River; turned right at 13,000'; pushed over at 8000'/9000' and released over the target area at 3500'/4000'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 144 x 100 lb. bombs carried, 111 were reported hits in the area, 19 were Jettisoned, & 2 were Returned to Base. The store area of Talili Bay was strafed on the way out & one a/c strafed the Eastern side of Watom Island.
WEATHER: En route: 6/10th alto-cumulus, 18/20,000', Over Target: Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-aircraft Fire:
A. Meagre & inaccurate fire from 4 Heavies S.W. of Target Area.
B. Meagre to fairly intense fire, but inaccurate, from 4 Autos S. of Target.
C. M/Gs on Shore of Talili Bay were meagre & inaccurate.
D. Coastal Guns at Condor Point on the West Coast of New Ireland fired a few rounds at 1 a/c.
E. Meagre & inaccurate fire from Heavy M/Gs on East Coast of Watom Island.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: 1 large explosion, a flash, & black smoke were seen in the Target Area. The area was well-covered by bombs.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Attack was not well co-ordinated.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
SPECIAL REPORT:
N.Z. plane # N.Z. 2521 failed to return from the attack. Pilot: N.Z. 4211654, Sgt Trolove, W.A. Navigator: N.Z. 422066, F/Sgt Harsant, M.A. Gunner: N.Z. 425132, F/Sgt Brown, F.H. - were the crew of the missing aircraft. One TBF pilot reported seeing an a/c, thought to be an SBD, crash in flames in a plantation West of Target 202 A, Talili Bay Supply Area. SBDs confirm seeing 1 a/c crash.
Plane No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 2518 Prior Clayton, Scarlett
. . 2510 Kissell Scott K. R., Bower
. . 2517 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 2540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 2525 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 2520 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 2542 Adams Davies, Scott
. . 2521: :Trolove Harsant, Brown
. . 2523 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 2514 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 2511 Stephenson Weir, Walker J.
. . 2535 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
: DID NOT RETURN.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Oct 31, 2020 12:47:09 GMT 12
Carried out - 31 May 1944.
TARGET: Garden plots at Papas, North Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray gardens & strafe Targets of Opporunity
FLIGHT-LEADER: A. P/O F.W. Holmes, RNZAF.
B. .. .. ..
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 planes on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: Both flights - 2 a/c each with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tank.
TIMES: A. T.O. 1000; T.O.T. 1030; Landed 1103.
B. T.O. 1337; T.O.T. 1400; Landed 1435.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C : None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: 2 flights were carried out & spray was released at 50'/60' altitude. Strafing was done from 180'/200'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Gardens of 1 1/2/2 acres at Papas were well covered by the oil. White patches at the entrance to Ruri Bay were strafed, with unobserved results. Huts at Labui were strafed & left burning. Strafing was carried out on huts between Porapora and Subiana. Results not observed.
WEATHER: A. En route: 2-3/10th cumulus, scattered. Base 6000'/7000'. Over Target: 2/10th cumulus, Base 3/600
B. En route: 6/10th Stratus & cumulo-nimbus, Base 2000'. Over Target: Fairly clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
Smoke was coming from huts in the vicinity of Ralum. These were strafed & left burning. West of Baniu there were approximately 2 acres of gardens in good order. On the Eastern side of Ruri Bay there appeared to be some new crops growing. Two white patches were seen at the entrance to Ruri Bay, one on the Eastern side & one on the Western. They appeared to be hung in the trees on the shore. They were strafed during afternoon run, with unobserved results.
4. Miscellaneous Reports: Plane # N.Z. 2513 failed to release its oil on both trips, presumably due to faulty detonators.
Plane No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 2513 A. Holmes Kelsey, Alexander
. . 2522 A. Le Lievre Alcock, Baker
. . 2513 B. Holmes Kelsey, Alexander
. . 2522 B. Le Lievre Alcock
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:16:20 GMT 12
Struck - 5 June 1944.
TARGET: Gun Position, near Meivo, Maririci River, Empress Augusta Bay.
MISSION: Bomb & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 3 planes.
A/C & LOADING: 3 a/c each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, 4 - 5 seconds delay.
TIMES: T.O. 0710; T.O.T. 0755; Landed 0830.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 3 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: A good approach was made at 6000', from the N.W., and bombs were released from 1500'/ 2500'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 12 x 500 lb. bombs carried, 11 were direct hits in area & 1 was Returned. 1 a/c Strafed in area - results unobserved.
WEATHER: En route - Clear. Over Target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: A small camp fire, white smoke at ground level, was seen just South of Target.
4. Condition of Target After Attack: Target Area appeared to be very well covered by both SBD & TBF bombs.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination, the TBFs following the SBDs on to the target at the correct time.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
Plane No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 2540 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 2508 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 2545 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:25:00 GMT 12
Struck - 5 June 1944.
TARGET: Vunapope Supply Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt. F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31. - 12 aircraft.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c, each loaded, with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 0835; T.O.T. 1045; Landed: 1140.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 16 SBDs, VMSB-36
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: # N.Z. 2523 - shrapnel hole approximately 3" x 3", in port flap. # N.Z. 2510 - Starboard elevator, and half of starboard tail-plane shot away. Several medium-sized holes in rudder. # N.Z. 2509 - Port panel smashed by blast - hole 3" in diameter. # N.Z. 2518 was lost.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: A/C # N. Z. 2518 - Pilot: F/Lt C.G.G. Prior, RNZAF. Navigator: F/O S.E. Clayton, RNZAF. Gunner: W/O T.R. Scarlett, RNZAF. - were the Crew of the Missing a/c.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached the Target Area from the North-West at 14,000', pushed over at 10,000'/11,000', and released at 3500'/4000' indicated.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 144 x 100 lb. bombs carried, 94 were hits in target area, 23 were Jettisoned & 15 were Returned. 12 bombs on the missing a/c were not accounted for. Several a/c Strafed on the way in to the Target, and some on the way out. Results of Strafing not observed.
WEATHER: En route - 3-4/10ths scattered cumulus, base 4000'. Over Target - Light scattered cumulus, otherwise clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: All fire was very intense and accurate. The general opinion of both SBD & TBF pilots was that the guns withhold their fire until the SBDs had gone through, and then all positions opened up. Heavy A/A fire was bursting from 6000'/ 8000' and the sky was filled with black puffs.
A. The 4 Heavies at the Northern end of the Target Area - Intense & Accurate.
B. The 2 Auto positions on the S.E. & S.W. of the Target Area were also Intense & Accurate.
C. The 4-5 Heavies S.S.E. of the Target Area were also Intense & Accurate.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Black smoke was seen in the Target Area going up to 400'/500' when the a/c were retiring.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was good, but the general opinion of the TBF pilots was that, numerically, SBD support appeared insufficient.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
SPECIAL REPORT: N.Z. A/C # N.Z. 2518 crashed during the attack. Pilot: N.Z. 39935, F/Lt C.G.G. Prior. Navigator: N.Z. 426214, F/O S.E. Clayton. Gunner: N.Z. 411234, W/O T.R. Scarlett - were the crew of the a/c. One TBF pilot saw the a/c spin slowly into the ground. It appeared as though the pilot had been hit. Another pilot saw part of a wing fly past him, and another saw two metal fuselage or wing plates falling. An SBD pilot saw the TBF go in and burst into flames on hitting the ground. None of the crew were seen to get out of the a/c.
Plane No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott
. . 509 Wilcox Stevenson, D.B, Dunwoody
. . 510 Jackson Smith, Walker, E.C.
. . 533 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 517 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker A.C.
. . 512 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 518 : : Prior Clayton, Scarlett
. . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker, J.
. . 523 Rollo Walker, M.J., Powell
. . 514 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 520 Smart Logon, Dixon
. . 525 Kissel Scott, K.R., Bower
: Did Not Return.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:31:23 GMT 12
Carried out - 5 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden plots at (A) Papas, (B) Tsumpets, (C) West of Ton, North Bougainville; & Targets of Opportunity.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT LEADER: F/O F.W. Holmes, RNZAF, on all flights - A, B, & C.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on all flights.
A/C & LOADING: On all 3 flights - 2 a/c, each with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil, in special bomb bay tanks.
TIMES:
A. T.O. 1016; T.O.T. 1040; Landed 1120.
B. T.O. 1330; T.O.T. 1400; Landed 1440.
C. T.O. 1630; T.O.T. - ; Landed 1645.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: 3 Flights were carried out, and the a/c sprayed from an altitude of about 30'/60'. Strafing was carried out on thatched huts.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
A. Gardens at Papas, Baniu Plantation. A/C #N.Z. 2522 did not release oil. A/C #N.Z. 2513 covered the area of 1 1/2/2 acres fairly well. Strafing was carried out against huts inland about 3 miles from Sipaai Mission, & also at Baniu and Raua Harbours.
B. Gardens at Tsumpets, East of Baniu Hbr. A/C # N. Z. 2513 did not release oil. A/C # N.Z. 2522 sprayed the area of 2-3 acres. Huts were Strafed near Tokapa and Kunapopo.
C. No results.
WEATHER:
A. En route - 3/10th cumulus, base 8000'. Fairly clear. Low stratus over the hills Over target - Clear.
B. En route - 7-8/10th cumulus, base 2000'/3000'. Over target - As above. Base 3000'/ 4000'. Light drizzle of rain as a/c were leaving.
C. Rainy - visibility nil.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire:
A. 1 a/c saw a flash of flame in front of his port wing when a/c was over Sipaai Mission. A/c was flying at 800'.
B. None.
C. None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity:
A. A line of approximately 15 fires, running N.W. from Mt. Balbi for about a mile were observed. White smoke 50'/100' high. About 15 - 20 thatched huts in good condition partly hidden under trees, South of Mt. Balbi. One column of white smoke from huts East of Sipaai Mission.
B. 1 small camp fire at Baniu Harbour.
C. Mission weathered out.
4. Observation of Garden Plots: The gardens at Papas are beginning to show several brown patches.
A New Garden of approximately 3 acres, very green & in good condition, was observed just West of Ton, South of Ruri Bay.
5. Miscellaneous Reports:
A. A/c # N.Z. 2522 failed to release oil.
B. .. .. .. 2513 .. .. .. ..
C. None.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
A.
N.Z. 513 Holmes Kelsey, Alexander
.. 522 Le Lievre Norman, Alcock
B.
N.Z. 513 Holmes Alexander
. . 522 Le Lievre Alcock, Buckingham
C.
N.Z. 513 Holmes Alexander
. . 522 Le Lievre Alcock
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:39:11 GMT 12
Struck - 6 June 1944.
TARGET: Supply Area, South of Vulcan Crater, N.B.
MISSION: Bomb & Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 planes.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c each loaded with 12 x 100 lb. bombs. Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 1005; T.O.T. 1215; Landed 1355.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 14 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS. The formation approached over the East Coast of New Britain near the Warangoi River, and flew in a N.W. direction, peeling off to the Right, East of Kerava Airfield & then going over the Target Area which was obscured by low cloud. They continued out through Blanche Bay, turned N.W. and over Tawai Pt. the SBDs split formation & the TBFs carried on and down across Talili Bay, and released over the Vulcan Crater area, at 6000'/8000'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 144 x 100 lb. bombs carried, 67 were dropped in the Vulcan Crater area, 12 were Jettisoned over Cape Gazelle. 5 were dropped in Raluana Point, 6 were dropped in the sea.
18 were Returned to Base. Strafing was carried out in Keravia Bay & over Gredner Island.
WEATHER: En route - 9/10th strato-cumulus, base 12,000'/15,000'. Over target - 8/10th low cumulus and strut-cumulus. The Target Area was obscured on the first run over and on the second run there were a few clear patches.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre & inaccurate fire was encountered from the following positions:
(A) Heavy fire from S.W. end of Tobera R/W.
(B) Heavy fire from a position half way along the S.W. side of Vunakanau R/W.
(C) Auto fire from Praed Point.
(D) Auto fire or Heavy MG from W, end of Keravia Bay.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: Four Piers at the N.E. end of Simpson Harbour were in good order & appeared to have been recently repaired.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Several bomb bursts were seen on the N.W. and E. sides of Vulcan Crater near the shore. White smoke went up to a height of 60'. The bombs Jettisoned on Cape Gazelle shot up a high column of white smoke, to 200'. The bombs on Raluana Point were not observed.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was good up to Tawai Point where the SBDs split up and scattered on the secondary target. TBFs then carried on to Vulcan Crater, and released.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: A shiny object thought to be an a/c was seen on the S.E. end of Vunakanau R/W, about 300 yds. away from the strip.
A/C No Pilot Crew
N.Z. 508 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 512 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 517 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 520 Stevenson Norman, Sole
. . 540 Holmes Kelsey, Alexander
. . 545 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
. . 514 Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:44:27 GMT 12
Carried Out - 6 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at (A) Ton & (B) Tsumpets, North Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Sgt L.F. Le Lievre, RNZAF - on both flights.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks on both flights.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1020; T.O.T. 1050; Landed 1120
(B) T.O. 1340; T.O.T. 1405; Landed 1430
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: A/C released spray from altitude of 50'/70' on both flights. Strafing was carried out from an altitude of 100'/400'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: (A) Garden at Ton, South of Ruri Bay, was well-covered. Strafing was carried out against huts at Papas & Baniu Hbrs. (B) Tsumpets gardens were very well covered. Strafing was carried out against Huts on route.
WEATHER:
(A) En route - 6/10th Stratus & Strato - Cumulus, Base 4000'. Over Target - 8/10th Stratus, Base 3000'. Stratus low over the hills
(B) En route - 10/10th Stratus down to 5000' along the Coast. Over target - 8/10th Stratus, Base 6000'/8000'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity:
(A) White smoke from fires was observed on the Western side of Baniu Hbr. and on S.W. side of Ruri Bay. 3 mls. E of Lalun, a new clearing has been cut in the trees.
(B) 3 people were seen near the Kaviki River, 1 ml. E. of Kaviki.
4. Observation of Garden Plots:
(A) Papas Gardens were looked at again & it is reported that the brown patches observed yesterday are not very bad and the gardens are in good condition. Tokapa gardens were also green & healthy
(B) On the E. side of Tsumpets gardens a small area of crops appeared to have been piled in heaps and burned. An area of about 4 acres of several patches was observed about 4 mls. inland directly E. of Mikmik Island on the W. Coast; in the valley between hills.
5. Miscellaneous Reports: Both a/c released all spray on both trips. Detonators are now checked on the ground before a/c take off.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A)
N.Z. 513 Le Lievre Alcock
. . 522 Rollo Walker, M.J., Powell
(B)
N.Z. 513 Le Lievre Alcock
. . 522 Rollo Walker, M.J., Powell
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 12:48:37 GMT 12
Struck - 6th June 1944.
TARGET: Guns & Trucks on Road S.E. of Hari, South Bougainville. MISSION: Bomb, Strafe & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 aircraft.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 1125; T.O.T. 1205; Landed 1230.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The a/c approached from the N.W. at 5000' and made a glide approach over the target. 1 a.c released all bombs at 800' and the other a/c released some on the N.W. run in & returned from the S.E. to release the rest.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: The 24 bombs carried were released in the Target Area. Strafing was carried out in the area. Results of the bombing & strafing were not observed.
WEATHER: En route : Clear. Over Target: Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: 2 blazing trucks were all that were seen
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Area appeared well-covered, with dust & smoke, etc., otherwise no results were observed
5. Miscellaneous Reports: 2 tracks were on fire & blazing well on the road, 2 miles S.E. of Hari. This was the result of the attack of the F4Us.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 523 Adams Davies, Scott, EC
. . 525 Stephenson Weir, Walker, J.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 13:13:44 GMT 12
Carried out - 7 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at Tokapa, B.
MISSION: Spray & Bomb Gardens & Strafe Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Sgt L.P. Le Lievre, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 3 a/c.
A/C & LOADINGS: 2 a/c each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in specual bomb bay tank; & 1 a/c loaded with 1 x 2000 lb. experimental "daisy-cutter" type bomb. Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T. O. 1010; T.O.T. 1110; Landed 1130.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: Oil spray was not released, but the a/c Strafed Huts round Kiakara & Sarime. The bomb was released at 2500'.
SUMMARY RESULTS: The bomb was released on a garden plot on a ridge 2-3 miles E. of Kaikara, because the gardens at Tokapa were weathered out. The bomb failed to explode.
WEATHER: En route - 10/10th Stratus down low, and fine drizzle of rain.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None. A well-used track was seen running from the Southern end of Soroken Harbour in a S.E. direction for approximately 1/2 mile.
4. Miscellaneous Reports: The 2 a/c carrying oil returned to Base because of unfavourable weather conditions.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Le Lievre Alcock
19 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
N.Z. 522 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 13:15:33 GMT 12
Aircraft, 19 is most likely an American aircraft, as this is the style in which they are recorded in these reports.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 13:52:49 GMT 12
Struck - 9 June 1944.
TARGET: Rabaul 127, Supply Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb, Strafe & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31. - 12 aircraft, ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c - each loaded with 12 x 100 lb. 1/100th sec. delay fragmentation bombs.
TIMES: T.O. 0805; T.O.T. 1015; Landed 1145.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 18 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached around Cape Tawa at 12,000', turned Left & started to push over at 10,000'/11,000', & released bombs between 5000'/6000', then retired to the Right into Talili Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 120 x 100 lbs. bombs carried, 101 were hits in the target area, 5 fell short into Talili Bay, 13 were Jettisoned, & 1 was Returned to Base. 1 a/c Strafed Huts on Watom Island.
WEATHER: En route - 8/10th cumulus & strato-cumulus, base varying from 1500'/8000'. Over Target - 1-2/10th scattered cumulus otherwise clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: The following A/A fire was encountered: -
(A) 5 Autos East of Target Area - meagre but fairly accurate.
(B) Heavy position South of Target Area meagre & inaccurate. Few black puffs at 5000'/6000'.
(C) M/Gs on Shore S.W. of Target Area -moderate & fairly accurate.
2. Enemy Shipping: 2 Barge Hulks were seen, 1 on the Western Shore of Ulu Island approximately 80' in length, & 1 on the Southern Shore of Moko Island, Duke of York group. Both appeared to be Unserviceable.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target After Attack: The Target Area appeared well-covered. Several columns of black smoke in the area were seen by the a/c during their retirement, 2 of the columns going up as high as 200'. SBDs report good TBF hits in the Target Area.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was quite good.
6. Friendly Shipping: 3 boats, thought to be 2 PTs or Escort vessels, & 1 small Coaster or AK, were seen approximately half way between Buka Passage & Cape St. George. Due to low patches of cloud & the height of the a/c the direction of the boats could not be determined.
7. Miscellaneous Reports: A/C #N.Z. 2512 & N.Z. 2525 did not take off, because of mechanical trouble.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott
. . 508 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 517 Jackson Smith, Walker E.C.
. . 540 Holmes Kelsey, Alexander
. . 520 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker A
. . 545 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 510 Stevenson Norman, Sole
. . 525 : :Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 512 : :Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
. . 522 Rollo Walker M.J., Powell
: Did not take off.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 14:55:01 GMT 12
Carried out - 9 June 1944
TARGET: Garden Plots at (A) Tsumpets, (B) & (C) Tokapa, North Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens and strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT LEADER: F/S L.S. Le Lievre, R.N.Z.A.F.
SQUADRON: N.Z.T.B.-31 - 2 a/c on all flights.
A/C & LOADING: On all three flights - 2 a/c each loaded with 75 gallons of diesel oil in special bomb bay tank.
TIMES: A. T.O. 1005; T.O.T. 1030; Landed 1100.
B. T.O. 1340; T.O.T. 1410; Landed 1443.
C. T.O. 1640; T.O.T. 1710; Landed 1745.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The a/c sprayed from an altitude of 50/75' on all flights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) Tsumpets Gardens. (2-3 acres in 3 small areas.) Both a/c released the oil and the area was well covered. This area has had 3 coverings of oil recently. Huts and gardens at Papas, Tsumpets and Baniu Harbour and huts at Kunapope were strafed from a height of 500/800 ft.
(B) TOKAPA GARDENS. A/C #2513 did not release oil. The other a/c gave the gardens a good covering. Strafing was carried out against targets on route. The three red drums in the clearing on the eastern side of Raua Hbr. (see Observations) were strafed without result. Some tracers were seen to enter the drum and others to ricochet off the sides.
(C) Tokapa Gardens. A/C # 19 failed to release its oil. The second a/c covered the area fairly well. Huts around the area were strafed.
WEATHER:
A. Enroute.- 10/10ths Stratus. Base 1500/2000'. Over target. Clear.
B. En route. 2-3/10th Strato-cumulus. Base ? Over target. Clear. Cloud down over hills
C. En route. 4/10th Low cloud. Base 4000/6000'. Over target. 4/10th Stratus. Base 8000 ft.
OBSERVATIONS:
(1)Anti-aircraft Fire: None.
(2) Enemy Shipping: None.
(3) Enemy Activity:
A. What appeared to be three 45 gallon drums painted red with yellow tops were seen in the shape of a triangle in a clearing on the Eastern side of Raua hbr. Distance between drums was approx. 15/20 yds. White smoke was observed coming from edge of the clearing.
B. The drums mentioned above were observed again and strafed without result.
C. Three new patches of gardens covering an area of approx. 3-4 acres were observed 2 miles East of Kaviki.
A/C No. Pilot Crew.
A. N.Z. 2513 Le Lievre Alcock
19 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh.
B. N.Z. 2513 ++Le Lievre Alcock
19 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 1, 2020 16:08:34 GMT 12
Carried out - 12 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at Ruri Bay, on all 3 Flights. MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) F/O I. McGechie, RNZAF.
(B) F/Sgt L.F. Le Lievre, RNZAF.
(C) F/O T.M. Stevenson, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 1 a/c on (A); 2 a/c on (B) & (C)
A/C & LOADING: On 2 Flights 2 a/c & on 1 Flight 1 a/c - all loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1010; T.O.T. 1040; Landed 1110
(B) .. .1330; T.O.T. 1400; .. 1435
(C) . . 1630; T.O.T. 1655; .. 1730
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 1 SBD on Flight (A).
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The a/c sprayed from heights varying from 50'/70'. Strafing was carried out from varying heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: All a/c released oil on all flights and good coverage was reported. (A) & (B) Flights covered 2 plots of a total area of 2-3 acres, just West of Ruri Bay. (C) Flight covered a plot of 4 acres 1 mile South from Ruri Bay.
Strafing -
(A) Trees & perimeter of gardens.
(B) N.E. of Lalum, Puto & Matetsiora.
(C) In vicinity of gardens.
No results from Strafing observed.
WEATHER: (A) En route - 2/10th scattered Cumulus, base 3000'. Over Target - Clear.
(B) En route - Clear on Coast, cloud over hills. Over target - Clear.
(C) En route - Cloud over Buka, base 2000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity:
(A) Several well-worn tracks from clearings into thick bush on the Northern side of Ruri Bay.
(B) 17 natives at Kaviki.
(C) 12 natives were seen in a large clearing at Ruri Bay. They quickly disappeared when they saw the a/c.
4. Observation of Garden Plots: (B) Gardens at Papas sprayed previously have turned brown over 2/3 of the area & appear to be well dried up. Two patches at Tsumpets - 1 was beginning to turn brown and the other was still green. A New Plot of approximately 3 acres was observed 3 miles East of Puto. A lean-to thatch shelter was seen in the centre of the garden.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A)
N.Z. 513 McGechie Henderson
(B)
N.Z. 513 Le Lievre Alcock
19 Hannah Arnesen
(C)
20 Stevenson Norman, Sole
N.Z. 513 Falconer Ripley
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