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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 9:57:52 GMT 12
Struck - 13 June 1944.
TARGET: AA Target C, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 11 a/c - each loaded with 1 x 2000 lb. bombs, 8-11 seconds delay.
TIMES: T.O. 0745; T.O.T. 0935; Landed 1055.
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 at 14,000' from the East over Kabanga Bay, turned Right at Gunanur Plantation & pushed over at 11,000'. releasing at 3500'/4000'. The first three sections carried on in a Northerly direction over the Target Area, & retired West of Rapopo into Blanche Bay. The fourth section retired South of Rapopo into Tamalili Bay. All sections rallied into formation at Cape Gazelle.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 11 x 2000 lb. bombs carried, 10 were hits in the area and 1 was Jettisoned. Several a/c Strafed during retirement, 1 a/c Strafed Gredner Island, & 1 a/c Strafed Tamalili Bay. Results of Strafing unobserved.
WEATHER: En route - 2/10th scattered Cumulus, otherwise clear. Over Target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: All Known Heavy & Auto Positions were firing moderately as the a/c approached but fire was intense during the attack. The Target Area was blamketted by a Barrage, Heavy at 8000'/ 9000', and Auto at 4000'/5000'. Light Auto, meagre and inaccurate, from a position North of Rapopo. One pilot flying at a height of 50?' South of Gredner Island, observed Auto fire, bursting on his port side. The fire was meagre but accurate.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: The area appeared well-covered with bomb burst and dust.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination was reported, with damaging hits by SBDs on the 2 Auto positions. The last 2 TBFs out, reported a cessation of fire from the Right-hand Auto position. No cessation of fire from the other positions.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 508 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 517 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
. . 514 : :Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
. . 510 Hannah Cameron, Arnesen
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 542 Adams Davies, Scott
. . 510 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 512 Jackson Smith, Walker E.C.
. . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 545 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker J.
: Returned to Base - Did not attack.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 10:05:23 GMT 12
Carried out - 13 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at (A) Kunapopo; (B) Torongen (C) Kaviroro, Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) & (C) F/O T. Stevenson; (B) P/O F.W. Holmes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: (A) & (B) Flights - 1 a/c loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil & 1 a/c escort. (C) 2 a/c each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1043; T.O.T. 1105; Landed 1135.
(B) .. 1340; .. 1410; .. 1445.
(C) .. 1635; .. 1705; .. 1745.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: (A) Spray was released at 60' on this flight
(B) .. .. .. .. 800'/100' .. ..
(C) .. .. .. .. 20'/30' .. ..
Strafing was carried out from low-level, up to 700'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: (A) Several runs were made over Porapora, the scheduled gardens, but the a/c would not release the oil. On the way home the pilot made runs over small gardens at Kunapopo & the spray released. Height 60'. Personnel & bush around the edge of the gardens at Porapora were Strafed 3 times from low level. Sarime Plantation was Strafed.
(B) Heavy rain North of Matetsiora prevented the a/c from reaching Porapora so a small garden of approximately 1 1/2 acres at Torongen was sprayed from a height of 100'. Slit trenches on the shore N.E. of Lalum were Strafed, & Strafing was carried out at Lalum & Torongen.
(C) Good coverage, from a height of 20'/30', of 2 to 3 acres of gardens at Kaviroro was made by both a/c. Strafing was carried out in the vicinity of the gardens. Results of all Strafing were unobserved.
WEATHER: (A) En route - Clear. Over target - Clear.
(B) En route - Clear as far as Lalum; heavy rain from Lalum to Matetsiora. Cloud over hills. Over target - Fairly clear. 2/10th scattered Strat-Cumulus, base 2000'.
(C) En route - 7-8/10th lowering cumulus over Ranges, base 3000', Tops up to 15,000'. Over Target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity:
(A) During the second run over Porapora gardens, 3 personnel dressed in khaki were seen running into the bush round the edge of the gardens.
(B) 4 or 5 slit trenches were observed on the coast line N.E. of Lalum.
(C) 4 Serviceable native canoes were seen on the shore by Tenekau Plantation.
Red-roofed huts which appeared well-battered by bombing & strafing were observed at Keriwini. A high column of white smoke was observed in the hills about 8 miles West of Kaviroro.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Stevenson Harrison
. . 525 + Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
B.
N.Z. 513 Holmes Alexander
. . 508 + Le Lievre Harrison
C.
N.Z. 513 Stevenson Sole
20 Rollo Powell
+ Escort - no oil.
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Post by davidd on Nov 2, 2020 10:49:08 GMT 12
I note that F/Sgt Le Lievre's initials seem to vary somewhat from entry to entry. His given names were Lancelot Francois (yes, he had impeccable French heritage, I think his grandparents came out in the COMPTE DE PARIS to Akaroa, so very much born and bred in New Zealand). Died quite a few years ago. A friend of mine and I visited him in at his Banks Peninsular farm in late 1980s or thereabouts and interviewed him, friend has notes taken from his log book. So definitely L F Le Lievre.
David D
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 11:13:25 GMT 12
Just writing it as it is reported, sometimes hard to make out.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 11:17:47 GMT 12
Struck - 14 June 1944.
TARGET: Rabaul 105 (A & B) Suppy Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c attacked - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Inst. fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 0745; T.O.T. 0935; Landed 1110.
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 from the N.W. at 14,000', pushed over at 8000'/10,000' & released at 3000'/4000', retiring out through Simpson Harbour between Matupi Island & Vulcan Crater. The formation rallied at Cape Gazelle.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: All of the 40 x 500 lb. bombs carried were hits in the Target Area. A/C Strafed going in and coming out of the Target Area, and a couple of a/c Strafed Gredner Island.
WEATHER: En route - 2/10th scattered cumulus. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Auto positions S. of the Target Area, at Vulcan Crater and Praed Point, & Autos & Heavies on Matupi Island were firing, intensely at first, later easing down to moderate from Matupi Island, & meagre from other positions. Fire varied from fairly accurate to inaccurate, guns on Matupi Island being the most accurate. Black puffs were seen coming up from Raluana Point, & white puffs from the Western side of Rabaul town. Fairly accurate M/G fire was seen by one pilot coming from the Southern side of Gredner Island. Heavy & Auto fire in the Target Area was lower than usual - 2000'/5000'. Fire from Heavies on Matupi Island followed one a/c out into Blanche Bay.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Black smoke & debris were seen over the Target Area, good coverage being reported with the greatest concentration of bombs in the central section of the area. Heavy black smoke covered the area & 3 large columns of smoke were seen, the centre one going up to 1000', during retirement.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination was reported. Very good SBD hits were seen in the area & 2 damaging hits on the 2 Autos South of the area were also reported, causing a cessation of fire from this position.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: About a dozen small parachute bombs were seen floating at 3000'/4000' N. of Vulcan Crater. White parachutes, with black bombs attached. Thin pencils of smoke were seen coming up from Matupi Island, presumably from Autos.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott
. . 510 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 511 Jackson Smith, Walker EC
. . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 522+ +Stevenson Buckingham, Sole
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 525 Hannah Cameron, Arnesen
. . 523 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker AF
. . 508 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 540 Holmes Lesley, Alexander
. . 512 Le Lievre Goodison, Alcock
. . 514+ +Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
+ Returned to Base.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 2, 2020 11:23:19 GMT 12
Carried out - 14 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at Wariki, N. Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) S/Ldr. M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
(B) F/O R.H. Lamason, RNZAF.
(C) P/O R.A. Falconer, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on Flights (A) & (C); 1 a/c on Flight (B)
A/C & LOADING: (A) & (C) 2 a/c each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tanks; (B) 1 a/c loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil, & 1 SBD escort.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1005; T.O.T. 1040; Landed 1115.
(B) .. 1445; .. 1515; .. 1545.
(C) .. 1640; .. 1710; .. 1750.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 1 SBD escort, on Flight (B).
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The oil was sprayed from a height of 50'/60'. Strafing was carried out, from tree-top height to an altitude of 400'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) Complete coverage was obtained on approximately 2 acres. A/C Strafed from Sarime to Sipaai Mission & villages at Wariki were given a few bursts.
(B) Good Coverage by one a/c. 6-8 small gardens in close proximity were sprayed. Strafing was carried out from Ruri Bay Northwards. The SBD escort Strafed a white marker on the beach slightly N. of Wariki, & huts in N. Wariki from tree-top height.
(C) About 6 small gardens S. of Wariki were given a good coverage from tree-top height. Strafing was carried out against native villages below Ruri Bay, road above Ruri Bay & huts at Metetsiora.
WEATHER:
(A) En route - 2-3/10th Strato-Cumulus, base 4000', tops 6000'/7000'. Over target - Fairly clear.
(B) En route - 8/10th over hills; heavy up the whole coast. Over target - Ceiling 2500' -scattered cumulus.
(C) 1000' ceiling over Target.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre but fairly accurate Auto fire was encountered at Wariki on Flight (A). No A/A was observed on Flights (B) & (C).
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity:
(A) About 5 groups of huts, set out systematically in rows, were observed S. of Wariki; they did not appear to be native huts. A 2000' high column of white smoke was seen in the vicinity of Tsumpets.
(B) White camp fire smoke was seen at Sarime Plantation. A white object, presumed to be a marker, was observed on the beach slightly North of Wariki.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A)
N.Z. 545 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
20 Rollo Walker, Powell
(B)
N.Z. 545 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
SBD Anderson
(C)
N.Z. 545 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
19 Stephenson Weir, Walker J.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 1:27:06 GMT 12
Struck - 15 June 1944.
TARGET: AA Target C, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c - each loaded with 1 x 2000 lb. bomb, 1/100th sec. fuze.
TIMES: T.O. 0739; T.O.T. 0925; Landed 1050.
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 from the East at 14,000' ober Kabanga Bay, turned Right at Mokurapan Plantation & pushed over at 10,000', releasing at 3000'/ 4000'. The first 3 sections retired Northwards, West of Rapopo into Blanche Bay, and the fourth section who were on the Southern Heavies, retired South of Rapopop into Tamalili Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 12 x 2000 lb. bombs carried, 11 were hits in area and 1 was Jettiesoned over Cape St. George. Several a/c Strafed as far as the coast during retirement and 3 a/c strafed the South side of Gredner Island. Ressults of Strafing unobserved.
WEATHER: En route - 2/10th Cumulus, base 2000' Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: The only A/A over the Target Area was seen during the retirement & this was meagre & inaccurate fire from a couple of Heavies in the position North of the area. Meagre & inaccurate Auto fire was observed by 2 a/c coming from the Southern side of Gredner Island.
2. Enemy Shipping: None. 3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: The area was well-covered by bomb bursts & dust. Dust & debris were seen flying up into the air from hits in the centre Auto positions.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Good co-ordination was reported, with SBD bombs falling in close proximity to all gun positions, especially the Northern Heavies & the Eastern central Auto positions.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 508 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 512 Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
. . 530 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 542 Kissel Scott KR, Bower
. . 535 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 516 Stephenson Weir, Walker J
. . 525 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
. . 509 Stevenson Sole
. . 510 McGechie Henderson
. . 513 Le Lievre Alcock
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 1:38:12 GMT 12
Carried out - 15 June 1944
TARGET: Garden Plots (A) Local, Experimental within the perimeter; (B) at Kurur; (C) at Sarime.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
(B) F/Lt J. Hannah, RNZAF.
(C) F/O R. Lamason, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c, on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: On all 3 Flights - 75 gallons of Diesel oil in special bomb-bay tanks.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1008; T.O.T. -; Landed 1028.
(B) . . 1343; . . 1405; . . 1435.
(C) . . 1625; . . 1645; . . 1710.
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 approximately 60'. Strafing was carried out from various heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) One run was made over an experimental 3-acre patch within the perimeter. The correct amount of oil was sprayed on the crops with one run. Two runs would have made an excessive coverage. 1 a/c failed to release.
(B) The large garden at Kurur was found to be abandoned, so both a/c sprayed small plots in the vicinity. Strafing was carried out between Sepaai Mission and Sarimo. Results were unobserved.
(C) A plot of about 1 1/2 acres E. of Sarime was given good coverage by 1 a/c. One a/c failed to release oil. Sepaai and Sarime were Strafed by both a/c.
WEATHER:
(A) Clear.
(B) En route - Clear up coast; cloud over hills. Over target - Clear.
(C) En route - 6-7/10th scattered cumulus, base 3000'. Over target - Overcast.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Miscellaneous Reports: 25 Friendly Troops were seen marching in single line, in a Northerly direction, along the beach near Cape Moltke, South of Cape Moltke, inland about 2 miles, 3 huts were observed, 2 being under construction.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A) 19 Adams Davis, Scott SC
N.Z. 2545 + Willcox Stephenson, Claris
(B) N.Z. 2545 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
19 Halford Waters, Blaikie
(C) N.Z. 2545 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
19 + Jackson Smith, Walker EC
+ DID NOT RELEASE.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 1:55:29 GMT 12
Struck 16 June 1944.
TARGET: Malaguna Supply Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb & Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, inst. fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0815; T.O.T. 1000; Landed 1120.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 18 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: A/C # N.Z. 2520 was hit by 20 mm fire in the centre of the bomb-bay doors. There were 3 holes in the doors, the largest being 4" in diameter. An unexploded 20 mm shell was found inside the bomb bay doors.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The formation approached from N.N.W. and around Tawai Point at 15,000', pushed over at 11,000'/12,000' and released over Target at 5000'/6000'; the a/c then turned right & retired out into Talili Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 48 x 500 lb. bombs carried, 42 were hits in area, and 6 were Jettisoned. Strafing was carried out going in and during retirement.
WEATHER: En route - 2-3/10th Towering Cumulus, base 4000'/5000', going up to 12,000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Heavies N.W. of Rabaul town & West of the Target area were firing accurately & with moderate intensity. Moderate & fairly accurate M/G fire from Talili Bay. Autos North of the Target were fairly accurate & of moderate intensity. Meagre & inaccurate Heavy fire from North of Lakunai R/W. Meagre & fairly accurate Auto fire from Cape Liguan.
2. Enemy Shipping: A light-coloured barge, approximately 100' long, was seen lying close inshore in Escape Bay, West of Praed Point. The barge was partly hidden by overhanging bushes.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: The area was well-covered with smoke & debris. 1 TBF obtained 2 direct hits on the large warehouse at the Northern end of the Target Area, and debris was blown sky-high. Black smoke was later observed going up to 1000'.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was again very good. 2 SBD bombs were seen to hit very close to the large warehouse & several bombs were reported to have gone on the 5 Autos North of the area. No cessation of fire was reported.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: 3 small yellow buoys were seen floating on the water in Talili Bay 1 mile N.E. of Kabagada Point. An oil slick, approximately 6 miles in length, was seen 5 miles N.W. of Buka Passage. 1 TBF pilot saw an SBD flying directly ahead after passing over the Target, it later hit the water about the middle of Simpson Harbour. The a/c hit the water, made a long bounce, and disappeared. No crew were seen to get out. Another SBD was observed going out into Talili Bay with smoke pouring out of the a/c.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott
. . 511 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 512 Jackson Smith, Walker EC
. . 508 Stevenson Noman, Sole
. . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 517 Le Lievre Goodison, Alcock
. . 525 Hannah Cameron, Arnesen
. . 523 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker, A.F.
. . 526 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 520 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 533 Kissell Scott, K.R., Brown
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 2:13:06 GMT 12
Carried out - 16 June 1944.
TARGET: Tsirogei Gardens, N. Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
(B) F/O R. Register, RNZAF.
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. 1040; T.O.T. 1040; Landed 1120.
(B) .. 1350; .. -; .. 1430.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: Oil was Sprayed from a height of 50'. Strafing was carried out from low-level to 400'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) 1 a/c covered a well-tended garden at Tsirogei; the other a/c released prematurely over Matetsiora from 2000' and a thin stream of oil was observed flowing from the first bend in the pipe.
Gardens at Tsirogei & Sarime Plantation were Strafed and a couple of Strafing runs were made over a large hut N.W. of Tsirogei. Tracer was soon entering the hut.
(B) Owing to heavy rain over the Target Area, the oil was not released on this trip. Strafing was carried out in the Puto & Tsimba Mission areas.
WEATHER: (A) En route - 5/10th cumulus, base 2500', Tops towering to 10,000'/12,000'. Over target - Clear.
(B) En route - Heavy rain up coast. Visibility 1/2 ml. in squalls. Over target - Weathered out.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity:
(A) A large hut, approximately 40' x 20', with green thatched roof, was observed N.W. of Tsirogei.
(B) A few personnel were seen in the vicinity of 4 thatched huts just South of Puto. 2 Strafing runs were made at these huts.
4. Observations of Garden Plots:
(A) A large garden of 3 to 4 acres was seen S.E. of Tsirogei.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A)
19 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
N.Z. 2545 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
(B)
19 Register Murphy, Gillanders
N.Z. 2545 Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 10:27:25 GMT 12
Struck - 17 June 1944.
TARGET: AA Target C. New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 11 a/c - each loaded with 1 x 2000 lb. bomb, 1/100th second fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0800; T.O.T. 0940; Landed 1110.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 18 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: 2 a/c were seen on the edge of Rapopo R/W - 1. yellow in colour, was at the right-hand side of the Southern end, the other was 3/4 way up the left-handside of the R/W.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The Formation approached from the East at 14,000' over Kabanga Bay, turned Right & pushed over at 10,000', releasing from 2500'/4500'. The first two sections retired West of Rapopo into Blancho Bay, & the second two sections retired South of Rapopo into Tamalili Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 11 x 2000 lb. bombs carried, 10 were hits in the area & 1 was Jettisoned. The loading TBF got a confirmed direct hit on the left-hand centre Auto position. Strafing was carried out against Gredner Island, huts under trees in Tamalili Bay, the Shoreline of Tamalili Bay & on the way out from the Target Area West of Rapopo to the Coast.
WEATHER: En route - 2/10th scattered cumulus, base 2000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre & inaccurate fire was encountered from 2 positions only. 1 pilot reported seeing a few flashes from 2 Autos in the left-hand Auto position & another pilot reported light M/G fire from North of the above Autos.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Area was well-covered & a pall of black smoke covered the area.
5. Result of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was good & SBD hits were reported on the top Heavy position & the left-hand centre Auto position. The M/G position was Strafed & the fire ceased.
6. Friendly Shipping: 4 Friendly PTs were seen South of Cape St. George, headed for Green Island.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 517 Le Lievre Alcock
. . 525 Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
. . 522 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 542 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 526 Kissel Scott KR, Bower
. . 509 Bayley Metcalf, Dornbusch
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 519 Stevenson Sole
. . 523 + + Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker J
. . 547 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
+ Returned early - engine trouble.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 3, 2020 10:33:35 GMT 12
Carried out - June 17 1944.
TARGET: Gardens, S.E. of Gohi, N. Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) F/Lt F. Adams, RNZAF.
(B) P/O R.A. Falconer, RNZAF.
(C) F/Sgt Aitchison, MH, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: On all 3 Flights - 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tank.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1000; T.O.T. 1030; Landed 1100.
(B) .. 1337; .. 1405; .. 1435.
(C) .. 1625; .. 1700; .. 1730.
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 tree-top height and Strafing was carried out at heights ranging from 100'/1000'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) Both a/c released on a plot of approximately 1 1/2 acres and good coverage was obtained. Tracks & huts in the vicinity of Puto were Strafed.
(B) A/c # 545 failed to release. The other a/c made 2 runs over a 2-acre plot on the coast & gave it a good covering. Huts around the gardens, Ruri Bay & Tabut areas were Strafed.
(C) A/c # 20 returned to Base because of a faulty radio. The other a.c made one run over the gardens & gave a fair covering. Huts along the West Coast between Sipaai & Tsimba Missions were Strafed.
WEATHER:
(A) En route - Clear. Over target - Clear.
(B) En route - Scattered showers, base 2000' Over target - Fairly clear.
(C) En route - Overcast. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
(A) The road going South from Gohi showed signs of having been well used recently. Several newly dug patches of ground were observed at Sarime. (C) New plots of ground are being dug at Gohi.
4. Miscellaneous Reports: Activity was observed around a camp at Kuriao Mission.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A)
N.Z. 545 Adams Davies, Scott EC
20 Hannah Cameron, Arnesen
(B)
N.Z. 545 + +Willcox Stevenson, Claris
20 Falconer Ripley
(C)
N.Z. 545 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker AF
20 = =Jackson Smith, Walker EC
+ Failed to release
= Returned - faulty radio.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 4, 2020 11:04:48 GMT 12
Struck - 18 June 1944.
TARGET: Ralum Supply Area # 46, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb & Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F.J. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31. - 12 a/c ordered
A/C & LOADING: 11 a/c attacked - each a/c loaded with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0945; T.O.T. 1130; Landed 1300.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 17 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The Formation approached along the Warangoi River at 14,000', pushed over to the Right near Varzin Plantation at 11,000'/12,000', and released over Target Area at 3000'/ 5000'. Retirement was made in a North-Easterly direction to rally off Cape Gazelle.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 132 bombs carried: - 110 were hits in area, 17 were Jettisoned and 5 were Returned to Base. 12 were dropped on Puto, N.W. Bougainville, by a/c # N.Z. 2511 which returned to Base early. Strafing was carried out during retirement & at Gredner Island.
WEATHER: En route - 3/10th Cumulus, base 3000'/4000', Tops 15,000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: A couple of pilots saw half a dozen black puffs West of Rapopo R/W during retirement, & another pilot saw approximately 20 shots fired from the vicinity of Hunter Point, New Ireland, hitting the water in St. George' Channel. The a/c was flying at 4000' at the time.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity:
(a) A large column of white smoke from Hunter Point on the Western side of Southern New Ireland was observed going up to 500'/ 600'.
(b) White smoke 200' high from a fire outside the North-Eastern end of the Target area was seen.
(c) White smoke up to 500' & flashes of light were seen on Matupi Island.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Many hits & some black smoke were seen in the Target Area.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was good & SBD hits were observed in the Target Area.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: N.Z. a/c # 2511 returned to Base at 1116 hrs owing to the left-hand centre canopy cover blowing off & smashing the aerial.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 2542 Adams Davies, Scott SC
. . 2509 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 2511+ +Jackson Smith, Walker EC
. . 2523 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 2522 Falconer Ripley, Buckinghan
. . 2513 Le Lievre Alcock
. . 2525 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 2547 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker A
. . 2533 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 2540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 2520 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 2526 Kissel Scott KR, Bower
+ Returned early to Base
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 4, 2020 11:12:02 GMT 12
Carried out - 18 June 1944.
TARGET: Garden Plots at (A) Metetsiora and (B) Kurur River, Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens: & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) S/Ldr Wilkes, RNZAF.
(B) F/Lt P. Bayley, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c on each flight.
A/C & LOADING: (A) 2 a/c - each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tank.
(B) 1 a/c - loaded with 75 gallons oil; 1 a/c as escort.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1016; T.O.T. 1045; Landed 1145.
(B) .. 1500; .. 1525; .. 1547.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
TACTICS: Oil was Sprayed from tree-top height. Strafing was carried out at all heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) Only 1 a/c covered a small garden E. of Matetsiora; the other a/c released prematurely. Strafing was carried out against Huts & clearings at Motetsiora, Subiana, Porapora, Papas & Teop Harbour.
(B) A small garden of 3/4 acre was Sprayed by 1 a/c. The Beach at Sarime was Strafed.
WEATHER:
(A) En route - Clear. Over target - Clear.
(B) En route - Fairly clear. Over target - 5-6/10th low cloud, base 2000'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire:
(A) Light M/G fire, meagre & inaccurate, from the vicinity of a large red-roofed building at Woskowitz.
(B) None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: (A) At Porapora, heaps of soil about 10 yds by 10 yds square were observed. These heaps were laid out in lines over an area of a couple of acres. A large storehouse, partly U/S, was seen at Kakau Plantation. Roof was thatched, or was rusty iron. A large red-roofed wooden building, approximately 70' x 40', was seen at Woskowitz. It appeared to be in good condition. Several groups of huts were seen in this area.
4. Miscellaneous Reports: A large burnt-out area East of Ruri Bay & a smaller one at Tsumpets, were observed. The Ruri Bay area as a result of experimental incendiary bombs which were dropped there. A/c # NZ 545 released the oil at a height of 1500' over the jungle at Kunapopo as seen as the Master Switch was put on. The release switch was not pressed.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A)
N.Z. 545 + +Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
20 Stephenson Weir, Walker J.
(B)
N.Z. 545 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 514 = =Gilgour Fuller, Harrison
+ Released prematurely.
= Escort only.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 5, 2020 0:31:25 GMT 12
Struck - 20 June 1944.
TARGET: AA Target D, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb, Strafe & Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0820; T.O.T. 0950; Landed 1115.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 17 SBDs.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The Formation approached from the East at 14,000' over Kabanga Bay until directly South of the Target Area, when they turned Right & pushed over at 9,000'. Release was made from 3500'/5000'. Retirement was made in a Northerly direction into Blanche Bay. Rally off Cape Gazelle.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(1) On the position of the 8 Eastern Autos 4 reported damaging hits & 4 Unobserved.
(2) On the position of 4 Heavies & 3 Autos on the South-Western end of the Target Area, 4 reported direct hits, 4 reported damaging hits, & 4 Unobserved.
(3) On the Northern 3 Heavy Positions, 4 hits in Area & 8 Unobserved. 12 bombs were in Area but Unobserved, & 4 were Jettisoned. Strafing was carried out against Gredner Island during retirement.
WEATHER: En route - 2-3/10th Scattered Cumulus, base 2000' & going up to 14,000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre & inaccurate light M/G fire from the Southern side of Gredner Island. An intense Barrage of Heavy fire was bursting at 13,000'/14,000' over Tobera. The 4 South-Western Heavies were firing meagrely but fairly accurately up to 6000'/7000' for a short period. Fire ceased during the Strike.
2. Enemy Shipping: A large landing barge was observed on the Western side of Gredner Island, approximately 80' in length and appeared to be serviceable. The observing a/c was flying at 1500' at the time.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Bomb bursts in area, and Target appeared to have been well covered.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was good & SBD hits reported were: - 2 confirmed direct hits in the Northern 3 Heavies & 4 or 5 damaging hits on the South-Western 4 Heavies. Several. SBD bombs were seen to fall very close to the 8 Eastern Autos.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: None.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 519 Le Lievre Goodison, Alcock
. . 542 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 547 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 526 Kissel Scott KR, Brown
. . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 503 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 525 Stevenson Norman, Sole
. . 523 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker J
. . 514 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 5, 2020 10:46:34 GMT 12
Carried out - 21st June 1944.
TARGET: Garden 3 miles S.W. of Kieta Aierodrome, Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Sgt Aitchison, M.S., RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 75 gallons of Diesel Oil in special bomb bay tank.
TIMES: T.O. 1336; T.O.T. 1415; Landed 1445.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: Spray released from 100' with one run over the area. Strafing was carried out from 50'/100'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Both a/c released from 100' and gave a complete covering to the garden of 1 1/2/2 acres. Strafing was carried out against huts in the garden area, South of Kieta Harbour, & at Tovidia. Huts were left burning at Kieta Harbour & Tovidia. The coastline East of Kieta Aerodrome was strafed with unobserved results.
WEATHER: En route - 2.10th cumulus, base 2000' tops 6000'. Over target - 3/10th scattered cumulus, base 3000'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: Several groups of 6 to 12 thatched huts in good condition were observed N.W. of the top of Kieta R/W. Well-defined tracks were seen in the area running from the huts and well-tended small plots of garden, into the bush. There were several well-tended small plots of gardens South of the R/W in the vicinity of the large garden sprayed.
4. Number of Sprayings on Area:
5. General Condition of Garden: Crops green and healthy.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 517 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker A.F.
. . 545 Halford Waters, Blaikie
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 6, 2020 10:40:41 GMT 12
Struck - 22 June 1944.
TARGET: Nordup Supply Area 75, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F.J. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 12 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 12 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 0840; T.O.T. 1035; Landed 1140.
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 from the North, inland of Laweo Point, at 15,000'; pushed over at about 12,000', and released over the Target Area at 6,500'/ 8000'; retirement was made in a South-Easterly direction to rally off Cape Gazelle.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 48 x 500 lb. bombs carried, 46 were hits in area and 2 were returned to Base. Strafing was carried out against the shoreline during retirement, Gredner Is., M/G position on Gredner Is. and the Duke of York Islands. Results of Strafing were Unobserved.
WEATHER: En route - 4/10th Strato-Cumulus, base 3000', Tops 10,000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre & inaccurate fire was encountered from the following positions:- a. North of the N.W. end of Lakunai R/W -Heavy A/A. b. At the base of The Mother on the Northern side - 3 Autos. c. Praed Point - Auto. d. Eastern side of Rabaul Town - white flashes of gunfire. e. Southern side of Gredner Is. - M/G. Two Barrages were sent over the Target Area for the B-25s who were on the same Target before the SBDs and TBFs. The first barrage was at 1000 hrs and the second at 1010. Both were bursting at 10,000'/12,000'.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: A large camouflaged green building, approximately 60' x 30', was observed on Sperber Point, on the Western side of Southern New Ireland. Several huts were in the vicinity. A small fire sending white smoke up to 80'/100' was seen North of Cape St. George, New Ireland.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: The area was well-covered by bomb bursts, & black smoke & dust was going several hundred feet into the air. A large column of black smoke was seen going up to 1000' after an explosion in the centre of the area.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: Co-ordination was good & many SBD hits were observed at the S. end of the Area.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott
. . 512 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 523 Jackson Smith, Walker EC
. . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 519 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 511 Stevenson Norman, Sole
. . 514 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 513 Le Lievre Goodison, Alcock
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 520 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 547 Kissell Scott KR, Bower
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 6, 2020 10:49:53 GMT 12
Carried out - 22 June 1944.
TARGET: Gardens at (A) 3 miles S.W. of Kieta (B) Porapora, Bougainville.
MISSION: Spray Gardens; & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) F/Sgt Aitcheson, M.S., RNZAF.
(B) F/Lt J.G. Hannah, RNZAF.
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 tank, on (A); 1 a/c on (B) with 1 escort a/c.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1025; T.O.T. 1100; Landed 1135.
(B) .. 1335; .. 1400; . . 1440.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: Spray was released at tree-top height; Strafing was done from various heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) Both a/c gave a good covering to the 1 1/2/2 acres of gardens. Huts around Kieta A/D, Kieta Harbour & Arawa Bay were Strafed. Results, Unobserved.
(B) 1 a/c released from tree-top height over a patch of garden 200 yds. x 160 yds. obtaining good coverage. Area between Sipaii Mission & Sarime Plantation was Strafed, also Gardens & Clearings East of Ratsea.
WEATHER:
(A) En route - 6/10th cumulus, base 2000' tops 5000'. Over target - 4/10th cumulus, base 1500' tops 5000'.
(B) En route - Strato-cumulus, base 1500' Over target - Showery.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. No. of Sprayings & Date of Last:
(A) Second. Last covering 21/6/44.
(B) First.
5. General Condition of Gardens: On both ( A) & (B) Flights the gardens appeared green & healthy.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: East of Ratsoa several small gardens were observed under the cover of trees & bushs; It would be impossible to spray these small plots because of the cover obtained from the trees. The afternoon flight (B) was not considered satisfactory, because light rain was falling at the time the spray was released.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A) N.Z. 517 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker AF
. . 545 Halford Waters, Blaikie
(B) N.Z. 526+ +Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 517 Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
+ Escort a/c.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 7, 2020 13:49:49 GMT 12
Carried out - 23 June 1944.
TARGET: Gardens at (A) Porapora (B) 3 miles S.W. of Kieta A/D.
MISSION: Spray Gardens & Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) F/Lt J.G. Hannah, RNZAF.
(B) F/Sgt Halford, C.W., RNZAF.
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 tank.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1023; T.O.T. 1045; Landed 1115.
(B) .. 1327; .. 1350; .. 1417.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: (B) A/C # N.Z. 2545 caught on fire during the release of the oil spray, Plexiglass around the stinger gun was broken, the gun was damaged by the heat, and paint & metal on the underside of the a/c near the under-gun position was damaged by fire. One parachute was also damaged by fire.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: (B) F/Sgt Waters, G.W., Navigator of A/C # N.Z. 2545, received minor burns on the arms, legs & face while attempting to extinguish the flames.
TACTICS: (A) Spray was released from tree-top height and Strafing was carried out from all heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) Both a/c released the oil and gave a very good covering to the gardens 600' x 100' in size. Strafing was carried out in the vicinity of the gardens & at Tsimba and Sipaii Missions.
(B) Due to A/C # N.Z. 2545 catching on fire, A/C # N.Z. 2517 did not release & the gardens were not covered. Huts were Strafed at Arawa Bay en route to the Target & 1 Hut was left burning.
WEATHER:
(A) En route - Clear. Over target - Clear..
(B) En route - 7/10th cumulus, base 2000' tops 6000'. Over target - 4/10th cumulus near hills, clear over gardens.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. No. of Sprayings & Date of Last: (A) Second. Last covering by 1 a/c on 22/6/44.
(B) Not sprayed. Last covering by 2/ a/c on 22/6/44.
5. General Condition of Gardens: All gardens appeared green & healthy.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: Fire on A/C # N.Z. 2545 -As soon as the oil spray was released it burst into a sheet of flame. The heat melted the plexiglass around the stinger gun and flames entered the a/c,
setting fire to parachute No. 18, Manufacturers' No. a 46530. F/Sgt Waters, G.W. threw some water on the flames and attempted to beat them out with a coat, receiving the aforementions burns in the attempt. The gunner of the a/c, F/Sgt Blaikie, W.L., jettisoned his escape hatch, which made a helpful current of air through the a/c, & then helped the Navigator to extinguish completely the fire. F/Sgt Halford, C.W., the pilot, made a safe landing at Base. The reason for the fire has not been determined.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A) N.Z. 545 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 517 Kilgour Fuller, Harrison
(B) . . 545 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 517 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker AF
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 7, 2020 23:38:15 GMT 12
Carried out - 25 June 1944.
TARGET; Gardens at (A) 3 miles S.W. of Kieta A/D & (B) Porporo.
MISSION: Spay Gardens; Strafe Targets of Opportunity.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt J.G. Hannah, 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 tank.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 1040; T.O.T. 1110; Landed 1140.
(B) .. 1335; .. 1405; .. 1435.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: Spray was released from tree-top height. Strafing was carried out from various heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) Full coverage was given to a patch of 1 1/2- 2 acres by both a/c. Huts in garden area and around Arawa Bay were Strafed with Unobserved results. (B) Complete coverage over a patch of garden 200 yds long x 100 ft. wide was given by both a/c. Strafing was carried out in the garden area, at the southern end of Soroken Plantation, and at Ton. Results unobserved.
WEATHER: (A) 6/10th cumulus & scattered strato-cumulus. Base 4000', tops 10,000'.
(B) Scattered strato-cumulus, base 3000'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: None.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. No. of Sprayings, & Date of Last:
(A) Third. Last covering 23/6/44.
(B) Third. Last covering 23/6/44.
5. General Condition of Gardens: (A) Gardens still green; condition unchanged. (B) Some of the larger leaved vegetation around the perimter of the garden is turning yellow. Kuri Bay gardens appear to be well-cultivated & in good condition.
6. Miscellaneous Reports: An A/S position the beach near the S.E. end of Kieta R/W appeared to be deserted.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A) & (B)
N.Z. 545 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 517 Aitchison Mathieson, Walker AF
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