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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 12:03:44 GMT 12
Struck - 6 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie Search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: Able Search - F/O T.H. Worsp, RNZAF.
Charlie Search - F/O W.D. Smart, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31- 2 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 1 a/c on each search, each a/c loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0850 Numa Numa 0905 Landed 1050/1100.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The 2 a/c flew together to Numa Numa. Able then searched North and Charlie searched South. Bombs were released from 500' up to 2500', and Strafing was carried out from tree-top height up to 300'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS & OBSERVATIONS:
Able Search - North. 3 or 4 Huts grouped together on Teop Island were demolished by a direct hit from 1 x 500 lb. bomb. This island was also Strafed. Gardens and huts West of Raua Harbour and South of Papas received a 500 ponder each and the last 500 lb. bomb was a damaging hit on 5-6 huts at Tortai, 4 miles South of Bonis. 5 Nips were seen on shore of the Western point of Baniu Harbour and the a/c returned and strafed the area with unobserved results. A Jap was sitting on the sand at Cape L'Averdy but had disappeared when the a/c returned and Strafed the area. 5 or 6 new thatched huts were observed along the water edge between Ruri Bay & Papas. The Coastline was Strafed at low level from Bonis to Numa Numa.
Charlie Search - South. All 4 x 500 lb. bombs were released from 500' on the large camouflaged building 60' x 30' 1 1/2 mls. South of Kobuan Bay previously reported on July 3rd, 1944. The a/c returned and Strafed the area, and found that the building had been completely wiped out. Shrapnel and debris were observed hitting the water. Strafing was carried out against a large garden 100 yds square at Toborei Plantation, Iwi and Kekere Plantations, a U/S Zeke in a clearing near Mojupona Point, Puriata River area, & the coastline from Numa Numa to Leboine Bay.
Able A/C 545 Worsp Goss, Williams
Charlie .. 520 Smart Logan, Dixon
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 12:09:15 GMT 12
Struck - 6 July 1944.
TARGET: Kabanga Bay Area, New Britain. Primary Target at Tovakandum weathered out.
MISSION: Bomb & Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F.J. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 10 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 0840; T.O.T. 1020; Landed 1140.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The Primary target was completely covered in by heavy rain so the Formation flew South down the Coast from Cape Gazelle, and released at Targets of Opportunity in the Kabanga Bay Area, at heights ranging from 1000'/3000'.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 40 x 500 lb. bombs carried: 38 were released over Area, 1 was Jettisoned & 1 was returned to Base. Strafing was carried out in the Area with unobserved results.
WEATHER: En route - 8-10/10th Stratus down to 1000' in places. Over target - Heavy rain, & completely closed in down to 1000'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Flashes, possibly from M/Gs, were observed on the Southern side of Kabanga Bay.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Observation was difficult due to heavy rain but one cloud of blackish-brown smoke going up to 300' was seen near a group of ? buildings.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 508 Adams Davies, Scott SC
. . 522 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 510 Jackson Smith, Walker EC
. . 526 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 547 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 517 Le Lievre Lockie, Alcock
. . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 519 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker J
. . 523 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 12:20:58 GMT 12
Struck - 7 July 1944.
TARGET: Tovakandum Supply Area, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 10 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c - each loaded with 2 x 500 lb. instantaneous G.P. bombs, & 2 x 500 lb. M.69 Oil Incendiary Cluster bombs.
TIMES: T.O. 0900; T.O.T. 1040; Landed 1215.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 1 TBF # 19 - Camera plane.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: A/C # N.Z. 2540 received a Shrapnel hole in the port wing 2" in diameter and a small hole in the flap.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The Formation approached from the North East past Watom Island at 14,000', pushed over to the right at 9000' and released over the Target at 1500'/3000' and retired in a North-Westerly direction West of Watom Is.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: All of the 20 x 500 lb. G.P.s and 20 x 500 M.69 Incendiary Oil Clusters were hits in the Target Area. Strafing was carried out in the area and along the shore to Cape Liguan during retirement.
WEATHER: En route - 9-10/10ths High Cloud. 6-7/10th Middle & Low Cloud down to 1500' in places. Over target - Clear with meagre scattered cumulus.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: 5 minutes before the attack moderate Heavy fire was seen bursting at 15,000' over Talili Bay, A moderate barrage of Heavy was observed over Hospital Ridge and Lakunai R/W, bursting at 13,000'/14,000'.
2. Enemy Shipping: None
3. Enemy Activity: None
4. Condition of Target after Attack: 1 a/c got 2 direct hits in the middle of a group of buildings & 2 near misses. A sheet of flame went up and 2 or 3 houses were left burning. Several other a/c reported hits on buildings and when the planes were retiring, at least a dozen fires were observed burning fiercely in the area. Black and white smoke covered the Target; one case black smoke was seen going up to 3000'.
5. Miscellaneous Reports: A/c # N.Z. 2513 and 2519 carried cameras and A/c # 19 piloted by Lt. Alexander accompanied the Strike in a TBF camera plane. F/Lt Hannah & F/Sgt Halford in A/c # N.Z. 2542 & 2547 landed at Green Island, returning to Piva at 1645 hrs.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 + +Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
19 =Hess (Camera plane)
N.Z. 508 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 514 + +Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 526 Le Lievre Lockie, Alcock
. . 542- -Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 547- -Halford Waters, Blalkie
. . 509 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 511 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
+ Carried cameras.
= Camera plane.
- Landed at Green Island.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 12:32:17 GMT 12
On an earlier thread on 31 Sqn personnel, I advised I was not sure if "Hess" was a squadron pilot. Well as you can see above, he is listed as flying an aircraft of another squadron and that the pilot is given in the narrative as being someone else. I am starting to think that HESS is a name of a specialist unit, most likely photographic.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 12:38:39 GMT 12
Struck - 7 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie Search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: Able - F/Lt F.J. Adams, RNZAF.
Charlie - F/O A.D. Willcox, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZAF-31 - 2 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 1 a/c on each search - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. Numa Numa Landed
Able -0845 1010 1110
Charlie -0845 0915 1100
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: A/C # N.Z. 2517 was hit in the starboard wing by a M/G or rifle bullet.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The 2 a/c flew together to Numa Numa. Able then searched North and Charlie searched South. Bombs were released from 1500'/2500'. Strafing was carried out from all heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS & OBSERVATIONS:
Able Search - The pilot landed 40 minutes after take-off, because of electrical failure, and took off again in another a/c. Strafing and observation was carried out up the East Coast from Numa Numa to the tip of Buka, and down the West Coast without seeing any enemy activity of A/A. Huts were strafed at Tinputs Harbour. The 4 x 500 lb. bombs were released from 1500' on a group of 4 or 5 huts in good repair on Matzungan Island; the huts were not directly hit but a good-sized fire was left burning in the surrounding plantation.
Charlie Search - 1 x 500 lb. bomb was a near miss on a couple of bridges near Riga Mission; the remaining three were dropped on the Cape Friendship coastal guns. 2 exploded but one was a dud. One emplacement was damaged and the top and covering camouflage were blown off leaving the gun completely exposed. Several low-level runs were made and the gun was reported to be a 4" naval gun painted grey and black with a rounded shield. The barrel did not appear to be very long. The gun appeared serviceable. About 8 emplacements, 5 of them housing guns, were seen. The a/c made 4 Strafing runs over the area. Several small fires were observed and strafed in Anewa Bay. Several Nips were seen on the Peninsula from Cape Friendship to East Point and many large well-kept gardens and huts were reported. This area was also Strafed. 2 Japs were hoeing a garden near Kara and 3 or 4 A/A guns in definite revetments were observed N.E. of Kara R/W; it is thought these may have been dummies.
WEATHER: 7-8/10th Stratus down to 1000' in places.
MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS: Although no A/A Fire was observed A/C # N.Z. 2517 made a distinct bump about half way between Cape Friendship and East Point, the only damage being a .30 hole in the starboard wing.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
Able - N.Z. 2510 replaced by 2522 Adams Davies, Scott SC, Observer Capt. Thomas, USMC.
. . 2517 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 12:47:26 GMT 12
Struck - 8 July 1944.
TARGET: Supply Areas - Kabagada Point to Cape Liguan, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 10 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c - each loaded with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fuzing.
TIMES: T.O. 0935; T.O.T. 1145; Landed 1330 (6 a/c)
1535 (4 a/c)
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: 1 TBF Camera plane # 19.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: A/C # N.Z. 2511 received the following damage: - 1 x .5 hole in the starboard wing, 6 x 7.7 holes in the port wing.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
ATTACK TACTICS: The Formation approached from the N.E. past Watom Island toward Kabagada Point at 12,000', peeled off at 4000', released at 1000'/1500' and retired out past Cape Liguan.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 120 x 100 lb. bombs carried:- 90 were hits in the target area, 5 were Jettisoned on Cape Gazelle 15 were Jettisoned in the sea and 10 were returned to Base. Strafing was carried out in Area, and during retirement.
WEATHER: En route - 6/10th Cumulus, base 2000' going up to 16,000'. Over target - Low Strato-Cumulus base down to 1800' - 1/10th cover by cloud directly over the Target.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: A large black puff burst off the port wing of 1 a/c during the dive. Flashes from Heavies were seen at Lakunai and Autos were observed flashing on Hospital Ridge with meagre intensity.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: Smoke and dust covered the area and a couple of good fires were left burning, white smoke from one going up to 1000'. Another large fire was burning 1/2 mile South of Kabagada Point.
5. Results of Co-ordinated Attack: TBFs were early on the Target and PV1s which were hitting the same target before the TBFs, were late, resulting in the TBF having to stooge around before going in on to the Target. 4 of our a/c had to land Green Is. to re-fuel before returning to Piva.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 522 Falconer Ripley, Buckingham
. . 523 + +Le Lievre Lockie, Alcock
. . 508 + +Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 526 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
. . 542 + +Adams Davies, Scott SC
. . 511 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 510 + +Jackson Smith, Walker EC
. . 547 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
19 = =Hess (Camera)
+ Landed at Green Island.
= Camera plane.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 12:50:17 GMT 12
Struck - 8 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie Search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt O.P. Bayley, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0845 Landed 1145.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The a/c searched, bombed and strafed from various heights, keeping together during the entire search.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS & OBSERVATIONS: The a/c went up the West Coast to Buka Passage, dropped 1 x 500 lb. bomb amongst huts on Pororan Island, then searched the Nova River for barges, with negative results. Strafing was carried out down the East Coast to Numa Numa and 2 x 500 lb. bombs were dropped on some huts in this area. South of Kieta was closed right down with heavy rain, so the a/c made a return run to the North, to the top of Buka, and then returned to Base. Several camouflaged huts at Panama la and a lone Nip at Tinputs Harbour were observed. A parachute was observed hanging from a tree 500 yds. inland from Watakwasela; the cords could be disctinctly seen.
WEATHER: South Bougainville was completely weathered out by heavy rain. North Bougainville was overcast down to 1500'.
N.Z. 545 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 519 Smart Logan, Dixon
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 13:08:50 GMT 12
Struck - 9 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie Search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/O I.S. McGECHIE, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs - Instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0900; Landed 1135.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The a/c made a dual searching, strafing & bombing mission from varying heights.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS & OBSERVATIONS: The following results and observations were secured:- 2 x 500 lb. bombs were dropped on huts in Dewan Plantation. 2 x 500 lb. bombs on Sarime. 4 x 500 lb. bombs on huts at Tanamala. Strafing was carried out in the above areas. Results were unobserved. Several well-kept gardens were seen on the East Coast of Buka; & well-used truck tracks near Siar.
WEATHER: Heavy rain was encountered South of Tinputs Harbour on the run down the East Coast, so the a/c went North again for another sweep but were weathered out by the time they reached Matchin Bay. 10/10th covered in, down to 1500'. Very rough with heavy rain.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 509 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 513 Le Lievre Lockie, Alcock
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 13:13:12 GMT 12
Struck - 9 July 1944.
TARGET: Supply Areas, Cape Liguan to Kabagada Point, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F.J. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 10 a/c
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c - each, loaded with 12 x 100 lb. bombs, instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 1000; T.O.T. 1145; Landed 1335.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: the formation approached from the West toward Cape Liguan at 10,000', started high speed approach at 8000' and released over the area at heights ranging from 1200'/2000'. Retirement was made in a Northerly direction from Kabagada Point, up past the Eastern side of Watom Is.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 120 x 100 lb. bombs carried; 96 were released in the area, 17 were Jettisoned and 7 were returned to Base. Most of the bombs went in Targets 35 & 40. Strafing was carried out in the area, during Retirement & against Duke of York Island.
WEATHER: En route - 5/10th Strato-Cumulus. Layers from 5000'/12,000'. Over target - 2/10th cumulus. Base 5000'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre and inaccurate M/G fire was observed coming from Kabagada Pt.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: None.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: The area was covered by bomb bursts and one good fire was left burning. Several buildings were hit on the point of Cape Liguan.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott SC
. . 508 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 510 Jackson Smith, Walker EC
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 526 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 543 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
. . 522 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 517 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
. . 547 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 533 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
19 Goss (Camera Plane)
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 13:40:10 GMT 12
Struck - 10 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie Search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/O T. Worsp, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0850; Landed 1200.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: Nil.
ENEMY A/C: Nil.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: Nil.
PERSONNEL CASULATIES: Nil.
TACTICS: The a/c made a combined searching, bombing and strafing mission.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS & OBSERVATIONS:
1. Results of the 8 x 500 lb. bombs carried: 2 x 500 lb. bombs on a large garden at Parero. 2 x 500 lb. bombs overshot a bridge in the river at Urata. 1 x 500 lb. bomb was a direct hit in the centre of a well-used road at Mamamorina. 3 x 500 lb. bombs were released on the coastal guns at Cape Friendship. All the above areas were Strafed.
2. Strafing was also carried out against; (a) Aitara Mission, Ako, Teop Harbour, Sorum and Hannahan Bay.
3. Observations:
(A) A lone Jap crouching on the shore near Toko Mission.
(B) 3 parachutes in new condition near a stream at Aitara. Point and 2 parachutes in a clearing a short distance N.E. of Ako. The chutes appeared to have been dropped recently & were smaller than the usual pilot type.
(C) Large well-tended gardens & well-used roads between Kahili & Kara.
(D) One puff of heavy A/A burst behind the tail of one a/c as it was passing between Kahili and Kara A/Ds.
(E) Observation of Cape Friendship guns revealed that the area had been well bombed but 3 or 4 emplacements still remain. Debris and branches covered the positions and no actual guns were observed.
(F) 200/300 yds N.W. of the above guns a green-coloured Bofor type A/A gun on a swivel mounting (approx. 40 mm.) The gun was standing in an open clearing and was unattended. The gun apperaed new & serviceable.
(G) A couple more parachutes, in older condition than the ones on the West coast, at Torau Bay, 1 ml. S.E. of Unwina.
(H) A low camouflaged structure approx. 20' x 30' was seen in a cleared planatation S.W. of Teop Harbour.
(I) 5 or 6 Japs who were fishing off the coral beach at Sorum were sent scurrying for the bush. The area was well strafed.
(J) A lone Nip at Hanahan Bay.
(K) New huts at Lontis, N. Buka and on the E. Coast of Buka between Lonahan and Cape Putputun.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 517 Jackson Norman, Walker EC
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 13:46:17 GMT 12
Struck - 10 July 1944.
TARGET: Coastal Guns, 2 1/2 miles South of Cape Friendship, Bougainville.
MISSION: Bomb and Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, 10-11 sec. delay.
TIMES: T.O. 0730; 0815/0915; Landed 0950.
OTHER A/C CO-ORD. None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The a/c ran in on the Target line astern at the necessary intervals and glide-bombed from a height of 400'/500'. The run in was made down the shore-line from N.E. to S.W.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 40 x 500 lb. bombs carried:- 34 were good hits in the area, 2 hit the edge of the water near the guns, 2 were released around the point in the next bay, 1 was jettisoned in the sea and 1 was returned to base. Strafing was carried out in the area and around the point into the next bay. An observation tower near the guns was Strafed.
WEATHER: En route: & Over target: Clear; scattered cloud over hills.
OBERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: 2 pilots observed 3 or 4 white flashes in the area, which they thought were gun flashes. No puffs or A/A otherwise observed.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: Many small fires, white smoke, were seen on the hills and in the gullies near the centre of the island.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: The whole point, & especially the area with the gun emplacements, was blasted open by accurate bombing. Dust and debris was showered into the water and accurate observation was difficult. The guns and emplacements appeared damaged with the exception of possibly one. An observation stand or tower inshore a short distance in the jungle appeared undamaged.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 523 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
. . 519 Le Lievre Lockie, Alcock
. . 522 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 511 Stephenson Walker J, Weir
. . 545 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
. . 508 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 547 Halford Waters, Blakie
. . 542 Bayley Davies, Scott SC
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
19 Hess (camera plane)
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 15, 2020 13:54:03 GMT 12
Struck - 11 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt J.G. Hannah, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 2 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Instantaneous fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0840; Landed 1020.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: Nil.
ENEMY A/C: Nil.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: Nil.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: Nil.
TACTICS: The a/c made a combined searching, strafing and bombing mission.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS & OBSERVATIONS: Results of the 8 x 500 lb. bombs carried: 3 x 500 lb. bombs on Huts etc 2 miles S.W. of Ton., 1 x 500 lb. bomb on smoke fire and huts in Tsimba Mission area. 4 x 500 lb. bombs on huts in a clearing on to the Eastern side of the Southern end of Soroken Plantation. The above areas were Strafed. Roads and gardens in South Bougainville were Strafed. One solitary Nip and a truck near Taropa were observed but when the a/c turned and strafed the area they could not see any sigh of Nip or vehicle.
WEATHER: All Bougainville was closed in by haze and rain except the West Coast between Kahili and Soroken Harbour.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 519 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 526 Halford Waters, Blaikie
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Post by angelsonefive on Nov 15, 2020 13:54:44 GMT 12
On an earlier thread on 31 Sqn personnel, I advised I was not sure if "Hess" was a squadron pilot. Well as you can see above, he is listed as flying an aircraft of another squadron and that the pilot is given in the narrative as being someone else. I am starting to think that HESS is a name of a specialist unit, most likely photographic. I think the camera plane # 19 was a US Avenger. The narrative mentions LT Alexander. Perhaps the LT's surname was omitted and that should read LT Alexander Hess. |
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 16, 2020 11:24:55 GMT 12
Struck - 12 July 1944.
TARGET: Kabagada Point Supply Areas # 35 & 40, New Britain.
MISSION: Bomb and Destroy.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 10 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 10 a/c - each loaded with 2 x 500 G.P. Inst. bombs & 2 x 500 T2-E-1 Oil Incend.
TIMES: T.O. 0735; T.O.T. 0910; Landed 1045.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: Nil.
ENEMY A/C: Nil.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: Nil.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: Nil.
TACTICS: The formation approached from the N.E. at 12,000' around Cape Liguan. Ran in on the Target from the S.W. and released at 2000' over the Targets. The coast line, target area and Watom Island were Strafed.
WEATHER: En route - 3-4/10th Towering Cumulus, base 2000', tops 12,000'. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Greyish puffs from light Auto were observed East of Kabagada Point. Fire was meagre and inaccurate.
2. Enemy Shipping: None.
3. Enemy Activity: Several large buildings clustered like a small township, with a small church-like building in the centre, were observed on Watom Island.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: 5 large fires were left burning in the area. Sheets of flame were coming from 1 fire & greysish smoke was going up to 2500'. Several buildings were demolished but the exact number is undetermined. 4 x 500 lb. bombs were Jettioned on buildings on the Northern side of Watom Island, and a fire was left burning.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 S/Ldr Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 517 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
. . 510 Le Lievre Lockie, Alcock
. . 545 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 519 Stephenson Weir J, Walker
. . 525 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
. . 542 Adams Davies, Scott SC
. . 522 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 547 Jackson Smith, Walker AC
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 17, 2020 10:00:32 GMT 12
Struck - 12 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie Search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: Able - F/Lt J.G. Hannah, RNZAF.
Charlie - F/Lt O.P. Bayley, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 4 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c on each search, loaded with with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Inst. fusing.
TIMES: T.O. 0750; Numa Numa 0810; Landed Able - 1005.
Charlie - 0950.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: None.
ENEMY A/C: None.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: None.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: 2 a/c North, 2 a/c South, on a combined Searching, Strafing & Bombing Mission.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS & OBSERVATIONS:
Able Search - 4 x 500 lb. bombs dropped near huts at Lontis, North Buka, damaging several. 4 x 500 lb. bombs in a Clearing S. of Kuru Huts, gardens & clearings and the shoreline from Numa Numa to Buka were Strafed. Barge search was negative.
Charlie Search - 8 x 500 lb. bombs were dropped in the Cape Friendship gun area. No direct hits were observed. Strafing was carried out along the Coast S. of Numa Numa, Arawa Plantation, Kekere Plantation, Tolan Bay & Mamagata Mission. Supply parachutes were again observed at Aitara Mission, Ako, Toran Bay and Orewere Bay.
WEATHER: Cloud down over hills.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
Able -
N.Z. 511 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 526 Halford Waters, Blaikie
Charlie -
N.Z. 508 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 17, 2020 10:08:28 GMT 12
Struck - 13 July 1944.
TARGET: Kabaira Bay S/A, N.B.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: F/Lt F.J. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 10 a/c ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 9 a/c - each loaded with 3 x 500 lb. G.P. bombs, Inst. fuzing, & 1 x 500 lb. T2-E-1 Oil Incendiary bomb.
TIMES: T.O. 0805; T.O.T. 0940; Landed 1130/1140
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: Nil.
ENEMY A/C: Nil.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: Nil.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: Nil.
TACTICS: The Formation approached from the North over Kabagada Point at 10,000', pushed over to the Right East of the Target at 8000' and released over the Target at 2500'/3500'. Retirement was made out to the West past Cape Liguan.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 36 x 500 lb. bombs carried, 27 were hits in the Target Area, 6 were overshoots into the sea, 3 were dropped on Gredner Island. Strafing was carried out in the area, and on Watom and Gredner Islands.
WEATHER: En route - 8-10/10th Towering Cumulus & Cumulo-Nimbus, base 1000' going up to 1500' in an extensive front covering the Southern end of New Ireland and St. George's Channel. Heavy rain & thunder storms in places. Over target - Clear.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Meagre and inaccurate light M/G from the Southern side of Watom Island.
2. Enemy Shipping: Nil.
3. Enemy Activity: Nil.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: 2 columns of greyish smoke going up to 1500' & 1 column up to 800'. Many fires from oil incendiary bombs were burning in the Target Area.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott SC
. . 540+ +Register
. . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker J
. . 525 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 519 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 517 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 513 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 526 Kissel Scott KR, Bower
. . 545 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
+ Engine trouble - Did not Take Off.
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 17, 2020 10:44:33 GMT 12
Struck - 14 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie Search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: Able - F/O Smart, RNZAF.
Charlie - F/O Register, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 4 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c on each search, loaded with 4 x 500 lb. bombs, Inst. fusing.
TIMES: Able - T.O. 0855; Landed 1020.
Charlie - .. 0855; .. 1005.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: Nil.
ENEMY A/C: Nil.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: Nil.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: Nil.
TACTICS: 2 a/c North, and 2 a/c South, from Numa Numa on a combined searching, bombing & strafing mission.
SUMMARY OF RRESULTS & OBSERVATIONS:
Able - 4 x 500s on a dozen huts near Cape Tanabom. 2 were destroyed, & the rest damaged. 2 x 500s were a direct hit on 4 huts at Kessa Plantation; all 4 huts were demolished 2 x 500s on huts in a clearing at Leman Manu Mission were unobserved. Along the shoreline between Cape Lemankoa & Cape Tandiki, at the base of a low cliff & well-hidden by the overhanging jungle, many huts & about 6 canoes. Some hens were scratching hear the huts. There was a pipe line (6"-10" diameter) along the base of the cliff. A small wooden slip-way about 12' across, from the beach into the water, at Cape Tandiki. 3 or 4 caves in a cliff face on the shore at Tohatsi were observed & a lone Nip who was sitting on the beach dived into the caves at the approach of the a/c. The cave mouths were strafed. Huts, clearings, etc, were Strafed at Lontis, Hagus, & Pororan Is. 1 Tracer, possibly from a M/G, was fired at 1 a/c at Hagus.
Charlie -
2 x 500s destroyed 2 huts at Tununi Mission 1 x 500 was a near miss on a bridge near the mouth of the Luluai River. 1 x 500 on some supply 'chutes E. of Cape Lahala. 2 x 500s in large gardens at Koromira Bay. 1 x 500 on garden & huts at Rapi Pt., Ararwa Bay. 1 x 500 on a well-kept garden at Rankama. Cape Friendship coastal guns appear to have been bombed out. 5 Nips wearing khaki green uniforms and carrying back packs were crossing a ford in the Mobiai River. The area was well strafed from tree-top height. 1 a/c located a stationary truck on the edge of the road near Monoitu Mission, but on returning to the area the truck could not be seen. The road & the surrounding area was strafed. 4 or 5 large red-roofed buildings on the western side of Kieta Harbour were strafed. These buildings were old & appeared well battered. 5 or 6 supply 'chutes at Unwina. Strafing was carried out in coastal areas.
WEATHER: Cloud over hills, 3/10th Cumulus, base 3000', along the coast.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
Able -
N.Z. 508 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 529 Kissel Scott KR, Bower
Charlie -
N.Z. 540 Register Murphy, Gillanders
. . 542 Stephenson Weir, Walker J
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 18, 2020 10:46:44 GMT 12
Struck - 15 July 1944.
TARGET: Targets of Opportunity, Bougainville.
MISSION: Able-Charlie Search.
FLIGHT-LEADER: Able - F/O McGechie, RNZAF.
Charlie - F/Lt Hannah, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 4 a/c.
A/C & LOADING: 2 a/c on each search, loaded with 4 x 500 lb. G.P. bombs, Inst. Fuzing.
TIMES: Able - T.O. 0755; Landed 1005.
Charlie - .. 0755; .. 0950.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: Nil.
ENEMY A/C: Nil.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: Nil.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: Nil.
TACTICS: 2 a/c North & 2 a/c South on a Combined Searching, Strafing & Bombing Mission.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS & OBSERVATIONS:
Able - 8 x 500 lb. bombs were released near the entrances to the caves in the Tohatsi-Hanahan Bay area. 3 bombs failed to explode. The cliff face along the coast is 400'/500' high & there are dozens of small caves on the shoreline, which appear to be inhabitated. The area is covered with well-worn tracks & Nips have frequently been observed in the vicinity. One large timbered hut (30' x 15') at Malasang. Strafing was carried out around the coast of Buka at huts.
Charlie - 2 x 500 lb. bombs on a garden & huts at Monoitu Mission. 2 x 500 bombs on Cape Friendship Coastal Gun area. This area has been bombed out and appears deserted. Deck level observation proved negative. 4 x 500 lb. bombs on a small village of huts at Kieta. 2 huts were wiped out and the balance were damaged. Half a dozen natives waved frantically to the a/c from Ugubakogui. All the coastal areas from Numa Numa down were Strafed.
WEATHER:
Able - Clear over Buka and down the West coast.
Charlie - Cloud over hills. 6/10th Scattered Cumulus. Base varying from 2500'/15,000'.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
Able -
N.Z. 533 McGechie Henderson, Dunwoody
. . 517 Le Lievre Lockie, Alcock
Charlie -
N.Z. 510 Hannah Cameron, Arneson
. . 511 Halford Waters, Blaikie
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 18, 2020 11:30:35 GMT 12
Struck - 15 July 1944.
TARGET: Enemy Positions at Numa Numa, Bougainville
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: (A) S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
(B) F/Lt F.J. Adams, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 10 a/c ordered for each strike.
A/C & LOADING: (A) 10 a/c - each loaded with 4 x 500 lb. G.P. bombs, Instantaneous fuzing.
(B) 9 a/c - each loaded as above.
TIMES: (A) T.O. 0740; T.O.T. 0815; Landed 0845.
(B) .. 1020; .. 1100; .. 1120.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: Nil.
ENEMY A/C : Nil.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: A/c # N.Z. 2529 was hit by shrapnel in the port wing and bomb bay. A hole 6" in diameter was left in the wing.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: None.
TACTICS: The formation circled the area and made the run-in from the N.W., released over the Target at 100'/2000' and retired to the left over the coast.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS:
(A) Of the 40 x 500 lb. bombs carried: 24 were hits in the Troop Area Target # ? &16 were hits in the H.Q. Area Target #2.
(B) Of the 36 x 500 lb. bombs carried: 20 were hits in Target Area # 3 and 11 were hits in the Radio Station Area Target # 4. 4 bombs were released in a nearby clearing & 1 was returned to Base. A couple of a/c strafed in Area.
WEATHER:
(A) En route - 6/10th cumulus, base 2500'. Over target - Fairly clear.
(B) En route & Over Target: 6/10 cumulus base 5000'. Cloud over hills.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire:
(A) Possible A/A from Numa Numa. 1 a/c was hit & it was difficult to determine whether the damage was due to A/A or the blast from his own bombs which were released fairly low at 1000'. No A/A fire was seen on either flight.
2. Enemy Shipping: Nil.
3. Enemy Activity: Nil.
4. Condition of Target after Attack:
(A) The target areas were well covered by bomb explosions as a result of accurate bombing. 1 fire was noticed during retirement sending white smoke up over the trees. No buildings were seen. Accurate assessment of actual bomb hits was impossible owing to the heavy jungle in the area.
(B) A run over the targets was made at 500' after the attack and bomb craters could be seen through the trees.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
(A)
N.Z. 542 Adams Davies, Scott SC
. . 525 Willcox Stevenson, Claris
. . 513 Jackson Smith, Walker EC
. . 520 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 526 Kissel Scott KR, Bower
. . 522 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 547 Stephenson Weir, Walker J.
. . 545 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
. . 519 Stevenson Norman, Sole
(B)
N.Z. 513 Wilkes McIver, Loftus
. . 547 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
. . 519 Stevenson Weir, Walker J
. . 522 Bayley Metcalfe, Dornbusch
. . 525 Stephenson Norman, Sole
. . 529 Rollo Walker MJ, Powell
. . 542 Adams Davies, Scott SC
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 520 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 508 Kissel Scott KR, Bower
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Post by aircraftclocks on Nov 19, 2020 10:34:02 GMT 12
Struck - 16 July 1944.
TARGET: Vunapaladig - Cape Lambert Supply Area, N.B.
MISSION: Bomb and Strafe.
FLIGHT-LEADER: S/Ldr M. Wilkes, RNZAF.
SQUADRON: NZTB-31 - 10 a/c. ordered.
A/C & LOADING: 9 a/c - each loaded with 2 x 500 G.P. bombs, 1/100 sec. fuzing & 2 x 500 lb. M.1. Magnesium Clusters.
TIMES: T.O. 0750; T.O.T. 0940; Landed 1200.
OTHER A/C CO-ORDINATING: Nil.
ENEMY A/C: Nil.
DAMAGE TO OWN A/C: Nil.
PERSONNEL CASUALTIES: Nil.
TACTICS: The formation approached from the N.E. past Watom Island at 9000', circled the target to the right, pushed over at 7000' and released at 2000'. Retirement was made out towards Cape Lambert and then Left over Palangumar Bay.
SUMMARY OF RESULTS: Of the 36 x 500 lb. bombs carried: 33 were hits in area, 1 was an overshoot on the jetty, 2 were returned to base. Strafing was carried out at huts along the coast line, the jetty and buildings etc near Sassum Point & in the Target Area.
WEATHER: En route - Several small fronts on route & 1, 30 miles S. of Cape St. George, was fairly extensive. Over target -3/10th scattered cumulus, base 3500'.
OBSERVATIONS:
1. Anti-Aircraft Fire: Tracer & small greyish puffs from Urara Island. Light M/G. Flashes, possibly Light A/A, near Target # 25.
2. Enemy Shipping: Nil.
3. Enemy Activity: Nil.
4. Condition of Target after Attack: 1 large building & 2 smaller ones were completely demolished. 2 or 3 fires were left burning in the area, sending up white smoke.
5. Miscellaneous Reports: 2 fires were observed on Duke of York Is. The larger one was on Mualim Island, & was sending white smoke up to 500'. The smaller fire was on Kerawara Is. Black smoke up to 1500' was observed from a fire near Vulcan Crater.
A/C No. Pilot Crew
N.Z. 513 Wilkes McIvor, Loftus
. . 517 Lamason Pederson, Whitmarsh
. . 510 Le Lievre Lockie, Alcock
. . 545 Smart Logan, Dixon
. . 540 Worsp Goss, Williams
. . 526 Kissel Scott KR, Bower
. . 525: :Hannah Davies, Scott SC
. . 510 Stevenson Norman, Sole
. . 547 Halford Waters, Blaikie
. . 511 Stephenson Weir, Walker J
: Returned Early.
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