JOURNAL OF EHLE REBER
Daily Diary of An Original 303rd Bomb Group Pilot

Originally transcribed to typewritten pages by Ehle’s sister Cora.

Re-transcribed to text by Gary L. Moncur, 303rd Bomb Group Historian

August 29/42 - Saturday
The Air echelon was split into the rail and air group. Both packed all set to shove off when plans were changed by 2nd A.F. May be here at Biggs for several more days - from the 1st burner. Lt. Quentin Hargrove is back from the hospital. Covered with bandages. We call him "Spook". Still miss Jimmie Hudson, Gene Rochester, Lee Shane, Bill Simno, Jim Van George, [Frank] Johnson and Sgt. Cato Myers, who were all killed in crash on Aug. 23, 1942 near Las Cruces near El Paso. Thunderstorm. Sgt. Knox and Lt. Hargrove, only survivors were thrown clear when plane broke in two. Lucky to have silk on. Quite a blow to 427th. Party evening.

Aug. 30/42 (Sunday)
Nothing new. Still waiting. Scheduled to go to San Antonio to pick up plane. Stockton and I scheduled. Plane out. Hurricane near San Antonio. Training practically nil except for some ground school. Beer evening.

Aug. 31/42 (Monday)
Same old thing. Flew about 30" formation with Calhoun of 359th. He feathered #2 after about 30". Another 1:30 transition. Planes leave tomorrow. We are to leave by train soon. I hope. B-17E's transferred to 330th Group. What next? Lt. Krahl transferred to 358th. Lt. L. D. Sherwood takes his place on Broussard's crew.

Sept. 1/42 (Tuesday)
Still waiting. 3rd crew of 427th to leave to pick up new B-17F. Leave in about a week. Either Tulsa or Cheyenne. Called Dottie [Ehle's aunt] and talked for five or ten min. Drank beer. Passes are liberal now.

Sept. 2/42 (Wednesday)
Ground School in morning. Softball in afternoon with E.M. - 11-0 our favor in 4 innings. I pitched. "Beer Bust" afterwards up the canyon. Stock and I killed a rattler (6 r, 1 button). I think Hagenbuch is getting married soon. Kidded hell out of him. Hagenbuch, Cole and Southworth become Captains tomorrow. Party in order. No flying, no ships.

Sept. 3/42 Thursday
Three new Captains in Squadrons L. R. Cole, G. E. Hagenbuch and B. B. Southworth, Jr. Still no flying. Broussard and crew flew a couple hours in 330 Group ship. Played 360 Squad. and won 6-1. Captains gave party in evening at Paso Del Norte Spanish Room. Bed late. Bryant and Soha out of this world. Some more too. Leave tomorrow, Hagenbuch marriage off. Sad.

Sept. 4/42 Friday
We leave today sometime by train. Called Cora [Ehle's sister] early this morning. Everyone fine. Confined to barracks prior to train embarkation. We are finally on our way. Boarded train at 20:30. Glad to leave El Paso and get on our way. Going to Battle Creek, Mich. Pullmans OK. We can at last sleep between something other than mattresses. Mother sent cakes and oranges. Big feed on train. Everyone in fine spirits. Plans were changed again and the whole 303rd left on same train other than Baldwin, former 427th man, and several other crews who flew to parts unknown. Meet them later.

Sent. 5/42 Saturday
Train pulled into Albuquerque, N. M. this morning for breakfast. Now 2200 o'clock. On train now for 26 hrs. Everyone in good SPIRITS. Breakfast in the A.M. at Kansas City. A little partying. One below me now. Bryant and I shifted bunks. I'm joining them now. Parteeee.

Sept. 6/42 Sunday 2210
Still on train. Had breakfast in Kansas City at about 1200 noon. Got to see the Mississippi R. for the first time. Lot a corn in Iowa, WOW. ETA Chicago at 0100. Should be at destination sometime tomorrow. Train pretty wet and bumpy.

Sept. 7/42 Monday 2000
Arrived at Kellogg Field about 0700. Nice field. Rather small but compact. Learned that we would receive planes soon and group should have full equip. by the 20th of Sept. We will fly to Tulsa or Cheyenne to pick up planes, when they are ready. We learned today that our ground echelon had left American soil bound for England. Rumors flying thick and fast, B-17E's in England with some of our boys that were with us at Boise are doing good work.

Sept. 8/42 Tuesday
Nothing new. Received booklets containing routes across North Atlantic which we will use one of these days. Are studying them everyday. Rumors heard of some leave being granted.

Sept. 9/42 Wednesday
Still waiting. Spent most of the time at operations as I was the O.D. [Officer of the Day] until 12:00 Thursday. To bed at 2:00 in the morning after checking nite passes.

Sept. 10/42 Thursday
Up at 1000. Stayed at operations all morning. Major Robinson made me group athletic officer. Off O.D. at 1200. Played softball at 5:00 until about 8:00. One new B-17F came in at about 12:30. Gave it the once over. It was assigned to Lt. Baldwin of 358th [#41-24577 Hell's Angels]. Ferried in more soon, I hope. Ferry Co. taking over instead of us.

Sept. 11/42 Friday
No more planes. Played softball all day. Still unbeaten. 427th seems to have the top team. 6 hr. pass. Called Dottie but did not make connections. Capt. Sheridan is now a Major. Lt. Hargrove, Spook, is back from a 5 day leave. He left us at El Paso. Capt. Hagenbuch finally got married. Lucky boy.

Sept. 12/42 Saturday
Wasted all day but one hour in Link trainer and 1-1/2 hours in ground school. Played some softball. Read and saw in Life Mag. of Lts. Andy Anderson and Ziesel, classmates, were interned in Turkey. B-24 ran out of gasoline. Pretty soft. Heard Geo. Mackin received his First Lts. today. Ours should be here soon. Denison now Capt.

Sept. 13/42 Sunday
Two more planes today. All to the 358th. They will leave 7 days after they have all their planes. All squadrons the same way. New route too. Non-stop flight. Played EM in softball and went down to a humiliating defeat 6-4. I lost. Squadron in pretty good shape. We will get 72 hour passes starting soon. I think I will go to Cincinnati, Ohio with Milt [Conver].

Sept. 14/42 Monday
Planes coming in fast now, 358th nearly full. We are 3rd Squadron to get full compliment of ships. Long cross countries are on schedule as soon as ships are in. Robey got first ship for the 427th. One 24 hour pass. Had a big time at Sky Club and American Legion in Battle Creek. Home at 3:30. Wow!

Sept. 15/42 Tuesday
Nothing new today. Put in pay voucher for month of Sept. without flight Certificate. No time yet this month, Swindle and I went to show at Custer.

Sept. 16/42 Wednesday
Lt. Robey's plane may be rejected as it is incomplete. First plane put out by Douglas [#42-2966]. Lt. Broussard's plane came in. Nancy Jennings stopped in from Washington, D.C. on way to Grand Rapids. Had party. No more 3 day passes. Woe is me.

Sept. 17/42 Thursday
Planes coming in fast. Show in evening, Lt. Robey's Douglas B-17F was rejected so he received a Boeing this evening.

Sept. 18/42 Friday
Lt. Goetz will probably get plane in the morning. We should all have them soon. Tough finding names for planes. Garbage, Miss Carriage, One O'Clock Jump, etc. are some names in other squadrons. Swindle and I went to show at Custer.

Sept. 19/42 Saturday
Should have had about 3 more for squadron but weather kept them from coming in. Lt. Robey had to land at Toledo because of weather. My plane should be here in the next day or so. After Goetz comes Stockton, Reber, Hayes, Southworth, Cole and Buck [Hagenbuch]. Capt. Southworth and father's picture appeared in Chicago Herald American paper sport section, Full page. His father is manager of St. Louis "Cardinals". He'll surely get the needle when he gets back. We put his picture up on the wall of group operations for all 427th to observe and initial compliance "OUR BOY SMILIN' JACK" was put above the picture. Some fun!

Sept, 20/42 Sunday
"BIG NEWS" Goetz, Stockton, Hargrove and I received promotions to 1st Lieutenants, AT last. Billy B, returned amid shouts of "the needle". Went on 24 hour. Wow. No planes today for our squadron. Should have a couple tomorrow, I hope.

Sept. 21/42 Monday
One Plane to 359th. Can't win a war this way. Getting my crew equipment shortages. Bostick back from infirmary where he had a bad cold in a joint which was out of place (puzzles me too). Went to show at Custer. Broussard and Robey making frequent flights to check fuel consumption etc.

Sept. 22/42 Tuesday
Checked out 45's, rifles and tommy-gun today. Inspection of arms tomorrow at 1500. Have to keep Douglas B-17F. Hope I don't get it. Still awaiting planes. Any day now.

Sept. 23/42 Wednesday
At last my plane came in #124607. Good ship and we started checking for shortages immediately. Out evening.

Sept. 24/42 Thursday
Continued checking plane. Lt. Snyder Opr. officer, is now a Captain. Oh yes several days ago Lt. Hayes became a father. First flight tomorrow to check all equipment. Maj. Sheridan said I could go to Eugene, Oregon for X-C, I hope it comes true.

Sept. 25/42 Friday
Drift sight on plane out. Cannot calibrate AS or compass, Can't go West of Rockies other than March Field.

Sept. 26/42 Saturday
Plan to go to Patterson Field, Dayton, Ohio to get plane fixed up. After drift sight is fixed flights will be frequent for fuel consumption. Patterson trip off for today on account of weather. Maybe tomorrow.

Sept. 27/42 Sunday
Finally took off at 17:45 for Dayton and Patterson, via Cincinnati where we buzzed Milt's home. Landed at Dayton 1630. Arranged to have plane fixed. Went with Milt to town [Cincinnati] where we met his folks at the Biltmore Hotel. Went out to The Farm. [Paradise Farm was the country home of the Stephen Meyers family in Mason, OH.] Had a steak dinner and drank martinis and beer. To bed about 0230.

Sept. 28/42 Monday
Milt and I and Ziskin, Byrom and Goetz went back to Patterson, leaving Mitchell, Mc Dermott, Swindle at The Farm. Went in and checked the airplanes until about 1700 then out to The Farm. That nite we went into Cincinnati with Mr. & Mrs. [George] Conver Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Meyers, Mr. & Mrs. [Sam] Caldwell, Jean Conver [Milt's wife], (Milt's sister [Dorothy Conver]), Jeannette Caldwell, Milt, Mc Dermott, Swindle, Mitchell & Goetz. Had a wonderful time at The Beverley Hills Club over the border in Kentucky. Listened to Guy Lombardo's orchestra. Home late.

Sept. 29/42. Tuesday
Stayed at The Netherlands Plaza at Cincinnati last nite. Best in town and really nice. Up at 1130 and then Milt and I met Mr. Conver and went to couple of clubs. Milt and I went to the [Cuvier] Press Club where I called and talked to Major Sheridan in Cincinnati to pick up Mc Dermott and Mitchell to fix WDAGO. Mitchell, McDermott and Swindle went back to Dayton. We, Goetz, Milt and I, stayed and went to a party. I took Jeannette C. Swell Time. Didn't sleep any.

Sept. 30, 1942 Wednesday
No sleep. Caught bus at 0500 for Dayton where met rest of fellas. Took off about 1000. "Jerry Jinx" painted on plane. Landed at about 1130 at Battle Creek. Major Sheridan unhappy because we were not at ships when he came to Dayton to get Mac and Mitchell. We (Goetz and I) alternate O.D.'s for eight days with Goetz starting. No chance to get to the Coast. Flew in afternoon to swing compass and calibrate A.S.

October 1, 1942 Thursday
All six hours cancelled. Fired all guns on flight over Lake Michigan. Got paid base pay. Big news. 359th and 427th to move to Bangor, Maine about Saturday. 358th and 360th to stay here. Base here cannot take care of a whole Group. Getting closer. I was O.D. today.

Oct. 2/42 Friday
To leave soon now. Planes are being outfitted for trip to Bangor, Maine. Cole and Hayes in Dayton. To return tomorrow. Goetz took Hayes as copilot. Party.

Oct. 3/42 Saturday
Leaving tomorrow at 9:30. Hayes and Goetz back. Cole still at Dayton. Packed plane for take-off.

Oct. 4/42 Sunday
Took off for Bangor via Toledo, Buffalo, Port Brie, Albany and to Bangor at 11:45. Had rather a nasty trip as we went through a front. On instruments for 3 hours. Flew radio ranges to Albany on instruments and then broke into clear and flew contact to Bangor. Seven planes took off and seven planes arrived. Hayes didn't take off on time on account of fuel pressure trouble, but he showed up about an hour later. We landed at about 16:30. No trouble. Nice field and quite warm. Capt. Cole still in Dayton should arrive any day.

October 5, 1942 Monday
Made out shortage list for airplane and work to be done. This place is really on the ball. It is tops as far as getting things done is concerned. They were inspecting the engines before I had hardly cut them off. Milt and I made arrangements for "Bugs Bunny", the Squadron Insignia, to be made for jackets and also for painting on the planes. Capt. Cole not here yet.

October 6, 1942 Tuesday
Got up at 0630, had breakfast and conducted a code class at 0700. I am temporarily commander of "B" Flight. That is until Capt. Cole gets in. Should be soon. Should get a new assistant radio operator as mine doesn't show much initiative or what it takes. S/Sgt Gray, my radio operator, still in hospital at Kellogg Field with strep infection. May get replacement. Lt. Goodale was transferred out of Squadron and Lt. Illgen took his place on Hayes' crew. Had lecture for "B" flight at 1300 on confidential matters. Zipped out later on a deal with Captain Billy.

October 7, 42 Wednesday
Heard we may get per diem since leaving Battle Creek. Being confined to the Post here is rather rugged. We get kind of tired in the evening, About all there is to do is drink or go to bed. Officers' Club is pretty nice. Had party in evening.

October 8/42 Thursday
Capt. Cole and crew came in this afternoon. Sure good to see him and Ed and Driggs again and the rest of the boys. McCune and a new copilot came back with him for Lt. Hayes' crew. Rolfson is in the hospital with appendicitis or something at Battle Creek. He will follow the squadron soon. New co-pilot's name is Barker or something like that. Went skeet shooting with "B" flight. Did pretty well. Went to bed early.

Oct. 9 Friday
Nothing new. Checked airplane. Should be ready for flight in several days. Painted some names on plane. Had a talk on briefing by a Lt. Col. from Gander Lake. Trip across No. Atlantic seems like it ought to be OK. That's all.

Oct. 10 Saturday
Same old thing. Waiting around. Major Sheridan took a trip to Presque Isle to get more info on crossing. Squadron had party in evening at Club. Haint. Sgt. Coomes may replace Sgt. Gray as operator.

Oct. 11 Sunday - Oct 16
Working on planes. Rest of Group left for Gander [Newfoundland] and Prestwick [Scotland]. Plane should be ready soon. Parties in evening at Officers' Club frequent.

October 17 Saturday
Lts. Schueler, Bryant, Dieffenbach, and Soha received 1st Lts. Lt. Conver will be here soon. Lt. Illgen, navigator, reported to Squadron. Lts. Ziskin and Bostick relieved of duty with 427th. Some of the pilots flew missions over ocean tonight. Ship ready now.

October 18 Sunday
Nothing new. Some planes are closer to getting ready. Lt. Conver now a 1st Lt. Mine will be ready tomorrow. Party at Nurses' quarters. 427th steak dinner at Officers' Mess. Enlisted men and all had a beer bust in conjunction.

October 19 Monday
Took off at 1030 PM and flew to Isle of Bermuda off coast of Virginia, and back. Took 10 hours. Landed at 0800 next morning.

October 20 Tuesday
Slept all morning up until 1430 in afternoon, then signed for per diem pay for tomorrow morning. Firing early this morning cracked glass in cockpit. Repaired during 50 hour inspection in hangar. Leave soon for Gander and points overseas.

October 21 Wednesday
Got paid per diem this morning. It sure came in handy: Spent afternoon loading ship. Expect to leave in morning if weather permits. Wrote letters in evening.

October 22 Thursday
Plane already. Lt. Robey's ship will stay behind as it is not ready yet. Rest of planes all set. Waiting on weather.

October 23 Friday
Front has moved in with fog and rain. Still waiting clear weather. Officers' Club is the spot now. Shacking prev. Wrote letters to folks, Cora, etc.

October 24 Saturday
Weather change expected tomorrow. Scheduled to take-off at 0900 tomorrow. Plane all set.

October 25 Sunday
Off at 0900 headed for Gander in Newfoundland. Landing gear horn blowing on take-off rather disconcerting, but later on OK. Landed 4:30 later at Gander after weather rain and sleet enroute, 3 hours instruments. Little icing, but everything OK. Gander sure is the last outpost. It is quite desolate here. A few WAAC's here, but other than them, women are a premium. Oh! yes, Joan Blondell is here with USO troupe. She stays in our barracks. Shades of civilization. War atmosphere is getting more prevalent the closer we get to England. Not so very cold here yet. The "Newfies" (Newfoundlanders) all seem to have false teeth. Lack of fresh-milk, fruit and vegetables, they say. Lots of Canadians here. Have to get used to traffic driving on left hand side of street.

October 26 Monday
Rained almost all day today postponing our Atlantic hop. Saw "Across the Pacific" last nite. Humphrey Bogart, Mary Astor. It was the second time I had seen it, but then I had never seen a picture show in Newfoundland. Typical American Army post theater - very nice. Maybe we leave tomorrow. We have had all our briefings. Now we are waiting on favorable weather.

October 27 Tuesday
Winds blowing from North. Field was closed all morning. Ceiling and visibility zero. It was really socked in. Cleared a little in late afternoon. Hop again called on weather. Food here not so bad. We had Gander Turkey for lunch today. Somewhat like chicken. There is a strong Westwind tonight maybe tomorrow nites the hop. Fellas played pool and ping pong all day. Very nice Club here. Two pool tables and two ping pong tables. Lots of books and magazines and of course a bar. Drinks are fair - beer isn't so hot. "Moontide" on tonite, but I had seen it so we just saw the Shorts prior to the main feature. Most of the fellas are buying parkas - look like ski troopers now rather than flyers.

October 28 Wednesday
It looked like we would leave today and Milt and I went over to the Canadian weather station and they said it looked pretty good. Later on word came that we couldn't be cleared on instruments so it looks like we may be here for some time. The weather gets worse as winter nears. It cleared up this afternoon and the sun was actually out. The sky was completely clear in the evening and I saw one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. The Northern Lights. They stretched clear across the sky and all the fellas spent about an hour with necks craned. It was the first time for many of us. There is a lot of flying tonite, but I guess the weather over the ocean is not too good. I won eight dollars playing blackjack, but lost it all again this evening. Saw "Powder Town" at the theater. 427th Operations starts scheduling tomorrow.

October 29 Thursday
Went on an 8 mile hike in the morning to Gander Lake and back,. While there we had a trip on the Lake in an $18,000 cruiser. Coming back we stopped and operated some 3" anti-aircraft guns installed near the field. Ease and rapidity of operation was a surprise. Watched 40 mm. AA guns practice firing at sleeve towed by Westland Lysander, a slow Br. observation and sea rescue plane. Back at 1200. Meeting at 1400. Nothing new. May leave tomorrow. In evening saw "Saboteur" for second time. Oh! yes, won $10.00 playing blackjack in evening. Maybe tomorrow we leave. Women, who were first Haints, are now looking better. Fellas will probably be dating the Newfies soon. Haint, incidentally, is a girl who could jump over two parked cars and run up a thorn tree and never get a scratch. In other words a bag!

October 30 Friday
Had our usual briefing at 1400 o'clock and we will leave tonight. Went over the weather enroute and radio procedure and are ready. It is raining now, but the weather after leaving is good all the way with a 2000 ft. ceiling at Prestwick, Scotland. Went down to operations at 1945 for meeting. First plane take-off at 2030, a B-24. Take-off was postponed until 1200 due to R.A. F. pilot who was flying over the field trying to spot it to land. Finally landed and all. Planes were finally off by about 0100. Instrument take-offs were necessary. I sighted my plane down the runway in line with lights, zeroed by gyro and kept it straight by keeping gyro on zero. At 120 MPH I pulled ship off ground. My elevator trim tab was rolled back too far and my take-off was rather poor.

October 31, 1942 Saturday
Off at 0030. Flew through mist and fog for a good deal of the way. Past point of no return at 0430. No turn back after that. Flew at 15,000 feet for about 3 hours after out about six hours, Sighted Irish shore about 0930 in the morning flying at 12,000 feet. I was gradually letting down to 9,000 feet. No convoys were sighted on trip until we crossed the Bay going into Prestwick. It was very light when we approached Derrynacross in No. Ireland following beam. We arrived over Prestwick at 9,000 feet at approx. 1130 Sat, Morning. Planes arrived very close together. Truly a good hop for the whole squadron. The haze at Prestwick was very thick and landings were difficult as it was hard to see the field and runways. I landed and as I was coming in, heard the tower call Capt. Cole asking him if the field he had landed on had 3 runways or two. Cole answered three and the tower said that he had landed on the wrong field. He landed at Ayre which is about 3 miles south of Prestwick. The field at Ayre was very soft and Cole's plane sunk in up to struts. The rest of us at Prestwick were taken to operation's for check in of maps, etc, and then rushed over to eat, back to operations for briefing and at 1500 o'clock we took off for Molesworth in Southern England, 60 miles north of England, near Cambridge, for our permanent operating station. Capt. Cole was left at Ayre, As we approached Liverpool, which was enroute, and dodging barrage balloons and restricted areas, the fog or haze became so thick that a landing was necessary at Hawarden Field, about 23 miles southeast of Liverpool. I was the first plane to get lined up with runways and land at Hawarden. It was a very fast trip with wind indicated of 200 most of the way. Eventually everyone landed and planes wore dispersed over the field. There were many Spitfires and a few Hurricanes, which had seen strenuous duty in the Battle of Britain and were too out of date for actual combat so were being, used as training planes. There was also a Wellington Bomber factory on the field which Lt. Goetz, Stockton, Lipe, Dieffenbach and myself went through in the afternoon. Accommodations were mot available for the officers at Hawarding, so we stayed at Sealand which is on the coast near Liverpool. It was an overseas distributing center for the Br. to Cairo and points East. We enjoyed our stay that evening at Sealand.

Nov. 1 Sunday
Reported to field at 1030 expecting clearance on to Molesworth but the weather was bad so we stayed at Sealand another nite.

Nov. 2/42 Monday
Reported at field at about 1000. Take-off expected at 1400, so Lt. Goetz, Stockton, Capt. Southworth, Lipe, Conver and myself went into Chestie which was the nearest city. Enjoyed very much the Quaint buildings and shops. Rode on two-decker bus back to field and took-off at 1500 for Molesworth. Landed there at about 1630. Haze again made landing rather difficult, but I was second in. Lt. Stockton, Robey and Broussard fell behind and tagged on to another squadron of B-17F, thinking it was us, and landed at Grafton Field about 10 miles from here. They should be here tomorrow. Dubell met us at ship. Sure a sight for sore eyes. My best friend Geo. Mackin was asleep as our arrival here was not expected. Spent rest of evening meeting old friends and getting settled in room. Capt. Cole and crew landed here about the same time we did, coming from Prestwick. I am rooming with Lts.'s Goetz and Stockton, due tomorrow. The field here is very well situated and extremely well organized. It is undoubtedly the best field we have been at yet. Weather very damp and cold. Field very muddy but a lot better than anything we've been to yet. So to bed in England with about 30 days of operational training and ground school before our first show over France or Germany. We expect Jerry to pop over to see us most anytime now.

Nov. 3, 1942 Tuesday
Up at about 0800. Had breakfast and started making room in B.O.Q. look like home, ha, ha. Goetz and I went out to planes to check on some stripping of unnecessary equipment on plane. Everything OK Goetz and I spent afternoon trying to start stove (Coal). Finally got it started at about 2030 only to have it go out again.. Curses! Lt. Stockton, Broussard, Hayes and Robey arrived from Grafton field this afternoon. Stock has moved in with us. May lose some of our planes to another group soon. I hope not however. We hear talk of a raid soon on our base. Don't know how true it is, but maybe we'll find out soon. I hear that Lord Haw Haw has announced our arrival in England. [Lord Haw Haw was the nickname of the announcer on an English-language, German propaganda radio station.]

Nov. 4/42 Wednesday
Up early this morning and got a good start on intensive courses in ground control, flying areas, nite flying, oxygen use, etc. as used in England. It was all very interesting and will be of great value later on. We also had our security lecture - Don't Talk. We had ground school up until 2200. Explained some bomber tactics too. This training will continue for about three weeks with training flights at altitude, formation, etc. Going to try to see Carl Esmay soon at one of the bases close by. Will get paid soon.

Nov. 5/42 Thursday
Had ground school again today on signals used in R.A.F. field control. All lectures are given by a Capt. Sergeant and Lt. Smith from a field north of London. They have both seen combat and are interesting to talk to. Lectures finished by noon. In afternoon I took Mackin out to the ship and showed him some of the new things on the B-17F. Goetz went with us. We all three had bicycles and of course we tried some formation cycling, etc. Goetz and I tangled once and Goetz went down. Great sport. Very foggy today and it is raining out now. We don't expect the Jerries until the weather clears up a little. Several weeks before we arrived a Jerry came over at about 40,000 feet in an ME109 and sat up there taking photos. Several Spits were sent up to get him but were unable to reach him. They are getting some good altitude ships, but I don't think they will be used to any great extent. We have been told to watch the FW190 and the new ME109G which are both the latest G.A.F. fighters. The 109G is pressure sealed and has a ceiling well over 40,000 feet, and a speed of 420. One day a ME109 was seen coming over the field like a bat-out-of-hell several hundred feet off the ground. About a mile behind were two Spits. They finally caught the 109 about three miles away from the field and that was the end of Jerry. The R.A.F. are marvelous fighters after 3 years of experience and hell.

Nov. 6, 1942 Friday
Today was much the same way. Most of my time was spent in ground school and inspecting the ship. Lt. Goetz. Maj. Sheridan, Lt. Stockton and Lt. Broussard were scheduled to fly at 1300. Broussard didn't get off because of radio trouble. Goetz, Maj. Sheridan and Stockton got off and flew for several hours over the North Sea. They had a helluva time finding the field. Used a Q.D.M. given by DARKY [radio bearing from an English station]. The rest of the ships were out due to minor difficulties. In the evening Capt. Neil Walker, Lt. Romeo S. Couture, Capt. W. W. Sellers and Lt. Cliff Voith came over from the 301st Group. We were all together at Boise and they were all in the old 427th with us. They left us at Muroc Dry Lake, California. They have seen combat and have been on 3 or 4 missions to France. We left the club early as we a had a party last nite. Just went outside to watch searchlights playing from the English Coast. Really a beautiful sight. It is very clear tonite. A beautiful raid nite.

Nov. 7, 1942 Saturday
The weather cleared up: today and many planes were seen winging their way East, toward France and Germany. Not much happened in the way of flying. The other three squadrons flew a little formation. We are going to initiate a new defensive and bombing formation. We will not fly the three plane element but will use a two plane flight. Had a big party in the evening at the Officers’ Club, Imported some WAAC’s and WAAF’s from fields around. Several nice looking girls from London were also there.

Nov. 8 Sunday
Wow! what a hang-over. We were scheduled to fly at altitude this morning but it was cancelled because of airplane status. Some of the runs and bomb racks are giving trouble, but will soon be fixed. The evenings have been clear the past few nites, but nothing as yet has developed. Some flying in the morning with bombing practice on the wash. Altitude hop in afternoon. My plane should be ready for PM flight. Maj. Marion and Geo. Mackin took several R.A.F. officers on a photog mission today in my plane.

Nov. 9/42 Monday
Had a two hour formation flight in the afternoon. We have changed back to the three plane element formation again. It is a lot better than the two ship to fly. Saw Dave Johnson and John Harding in the evening, They came over from Polebrook where they are stationed With the 97th. They expect to pull out any day for North Africa. Now that the A.E.F. has landed there, they will make up the Bomber Command or a part of it. John looks as fat as ever and operational flying seems to agree with him. He will probably go to Egypt or Syria soon. Dave looks fine and it was sure good to see them both.

Nov. 10/42 Tuesday
Flying was called today because of poor visibility. We were in classes practically all day. Lt. Claes Johnson, our S2 officer, gave a very good lecture on prisoners of war. We were told what to do in case we were forced down every enemy territory. How to contact organizations in France, Belgium, etc. to help our escape and joining our own forces. It was very enlightening. In the evening Stockton, Goetz and I went into Kettering, England and spent our first real blackout in a city. The streets were absolutely void of light except for an occasional flashlite held by individuals. The lites were very dim and of course my flashlite let out a beam which was comparable to the beam of an average searchlight on the east coast of England. Consequently, the first time I flashed it an old, bent, cane-aided, Englishman gave me hell and so my lite wasn't much help the rest of the nite. We went to a dance at the George Hotel - "Regent Room". We were not too much impressed by the English girls so we spent most of the evening at the "Pubs". We started drinking raisin wine and were beginning to feel pretty good until someone found out that the wine was not intoxicating. We sobered. up rather rapidly. We had a great time. Our truck was named Arkansas rather than calling out the name of the field for which the truck was heading. Got home about 2400.

Nov. 11, 1942 Wednesday
"Armistice Day" was observed very little at our base here at Molesworth. Only a casual mention was made of the 1918 ending of the Worlds War I. Attended several lectures during the day. One was given by Maj. Holmes, a flak expert and an Englishman from Wing. It was very interesting and should be helpful. I was scheduled to fly at 1400, but Robey's and my flight were cancelled due to lack of qualified radio operators. Our operators are attending school here on the base. About 1530 the field closed in to 0 ceiling and 0 visibility. A quick, dense fog rolled in catching about six planes in the air before they could be called in. Maj. Sheridan, Lt. Stockton, Lt. Hayes and Capt. Cole were among those who were diverted to Bovingdon, which is a field near London. All planes landed there safely. They are still there and will probably hop back tomorrow if weather permits. A lone German plane was caught near the field today. He was heard calling on radio so he must have been somewhere within ten or fifteen miles. He did not land however and was not observed due to the fog. It is still foggy out. Got in an hour of Link this evening.

Nov. 12, 1942 Thursday
The field is still socked in and so the boys caught up yesterday are therefore probably still in London knocking themselves out. We heard a lecture given by an R.A.F. Colonel who is at the head of the Air Sea Rescue Force which finds the boys in the dinghys when they are forced down at sea. It was an extremely interesting lecture. He told of this incident in the Channel that I might mention here. A German aviator was forced down in the Channel. A Spit sighted him and called the A.S.R. and they immediately sent a Speed Launch to pick him up. Meanwhile a ME109 also sighted the German flyer. He flew over the launch motioning them back as much as saying, "Leave him alone our own boys will take care of him". In charge of the launch was an old Scottish seaman who was very stubborn in his ways and so he continued on his way to the floundering German. The ME109, his ire up by now, dived in low and machine gunned the launch to the extent that it caught on fire and the crew had to take to their lifeboats. This action was sighted from the English shore so they sent out three Spits to take care of the ME109. They did very handily, but in the meantime a German launch was heading for the poor bewildered German. Seeing the ME109 shot down the German launch radioed for help. Soon 12 ME109's were seen approaching the scene. They were met by two squadrons of Spitfires. A British cruiser nearly sent several cutters to engage the "E" boat from the German side. The English Colonel concluded by saying that if nite had not come upon the skirmish, a major naval engagement might have ensued which may have decided the whole war and the fate of the British Empire. Incidentally Goetz and I slept in this morning. Maj. Sheridan is stuck at Bovingdon on account of fog. While the cats away the mice will play. Received my first letter today. It was from Aunt Dot. My first letter on foreign soil.

November 13/42 Friday
Maj. Sheridan still away. Goetz and I slept late. We had our first steak this morning in England. Rather tough. I was scheduled to fly at 1330, but Capt. Southworth took my mission. G. T. Mackin was co-pilot to get some time for flight pay. Goetz, Conver and myself cycled around nearby villages of Molesworth and Layton looking for Christmas cards, but none were to be found. When I got back and went to the mess hall I was told that Capt. Billy had taxied my plane into a bomb shelter. It tore the right wing tip and will probably be out of commission for a couple of days. Had six hour pass tonight, but decided to stay home and write letters. I ran into Goetz on his bike today and tore out a couple of spokes. His wheel ended up looking like a pretzel. I received Mother's Package today. She had mailed it Sept. 29 to Battle Creek, Mich. I'm glad Friday the 13th is nearly over.

November 14/42 Saturday
Today the field is still wrapped in fog. Visibility and ceiling are both near zero. The boys are still at Bovingdon. Engineers Lt. Hargrove and Panyan have located a wing tip for me. It should be here soon. It was torn up quite badly. I have a piece of it hanging on the wall in my room. I hope it's the only thing that ever happens to my plane. In the evening Lt. Goetz, Conver, Fury, Captain Denison, Lt. Whitaker and myself went into Northampton on the QT. We went to the Salon Dance, Shakespeare Club, Angel Club, etc. We had a wonderful time. We all got to feeling pretty good, but the stuff they drink over here is certainly not conducive to excessive drink. Gin and lime; beer, ach - phew! Back about 0200.

Nov. 15, 1942 Sunday
Throughout England today the church bells all pealed the good news of victory of the 8th Army in No. Africa. It was the first time the bells had rung since 1939. One reason for their long silence is that the ringing of all church bells in England is the signal for invasion. With the news of the A.E.F. in No. Africa spirits are very high,. The boys from Bovingdon came in this afternoon. They just got into London once and then they did very little. They had flying clothes on so they stayed out of London. Saw the picture, "Hound of Baskervilles" for the second time. It was a private Officers' Club picture.

Nov. 16, 1942 Monday
Flew today from 1400 till 1600. I got up at 0600 to fly at 0800, but a mix-up on crews kept the plane from taking off. I was to fly Lt. Stockton's ship which I finally did at 1400. We flew formation. I had a good experience when I took-off with the Pitot tube covers on. As a consequence I had no air speed indicator. It is really a thrill to fly a 4 motored plane, without knowing the air speed, which one must depend upon every minute. I came in a little fast to keep well above the stalling speed, the landing was alright. We stopped, removed the covers, and joined the formation. Of course I gave the engineer hell for he was the one who told me the plane was OK and that the covers were off. One must be able to depend upon his crew for certain duties for there are so many on a Flying Fortress. I think that in the morning the 303rd Group gets its initiation. The 358th, 359th and 360th will have 18 planes in the show. Will be able to tell more about it tomorrow.

Nov. 17, 1942 Tuesday
The raid yesterday on submarine pens and workshops at St. Nazaire, France was a complete flop. There was a hell of a mix-up on take-off and in general the show was snafu. Stockton and Robey of our outfit went along but turned back when guns failed to operate correctly. On top of that the group failed to find the target, consequently they landed with all the bombs. Glad the 427th still has a clean slate. I understand we are to lead the raid in the morning on sub pens and docks at La Pallice, France. Here's hoping it turns out better than today's.

Nov. 18/42 Wednesday
Up at 0600 and had breakfast. Went to briefing at 0730 and took off on raid at 1000. Lt. Stockton was Maj. Sheridan's copilot. Goetz and I took our own ships. Col. Wallace led with Robey and Southworth riding his wings. Maj. Sheridan led next element with Goetz and I riding his wings. Capt. Cole was extra. In mid-channel Robey turned back with super-charger trouble. Goetz took his place and Capt. Cole tacked on the Maj. Other two squadrons tailed us. We were to bomb La Pallice, but ended up by bombing St. Nazaire, yesterday's target. Bombing was quite successful with several good hits noted on photographs. My plane registered several good hits, and was thought to have started a fire. Flack was very intense over the target. We stayed over target for about 24 min., which helped the Jerries considerably. Several planes claimed FW190's, but my plane did not get any good shots as they attacked the rear planes. We encountered some flack and fighters over Nantes, France on way to target. Upon landing and inspection I found that my plane had about 12 flack holes in it. While over the target Lt. Mitchell and I received quite a scare when a piece of shrapnel came tearing through the cockpit directly beneath our legs and came to rest beneath, one against my oxygen bottle. I picked the piece up and put it in my pocket. Nobody was hurt on the ship. The plane will probably be out for repairs for several days. Everyone returned safely. Show for tomorrow was cancelled. Personal Appearance - Saw Kay Francis, Carol Anders, Martha Raye, and Mitzi Mayfair in stage show tonight.

Nov. 19/42 Thursday
Got up today at 1145. It is the latest I've slept since I've been in the A.C. Went out on line and gave my plane the once over and found that my plane was in worse condition than I had figured. I was lucky not to have lost #4 engine. A piece of shrapnel had entered the right side of #4 nacelle and pierced the air breather for the carburetor. It was headed directly for the cockpit if it had not been stopped. There was a hole in the newly replaced wing-tip and several others in engine nacelles and wing surfaces. It should be ready by about Saturday. I think there is some formation gunnery scheduled for tomorrow.

Nov. 20/42 Friday
Nothing planned. Had ground school in the afternoon. Plane was taxied to hangar and should be ready by tomorrow. A raid on Lorient is planned for tomorrow. We will make up the tail end of the group. Plenty of excitement probably in store for us. Sent some Xmas cards to the folks.

Nov. 21/42 Saturday
Raid for this morning was called off on account of approaching cold front. I think that it will be tomorrow morning 2 x 2000 bombs will be used. We are all getting a little "flak happy" now. Plane is in tip top condition for tomorrow. Our squadron will probably be tail end Charlie. There will be individual squadron bombing at 30 sec. intervals.

Nov. 22/1942 Sunday
We got up about 04:30 for breakfast. Briefing started about 0600. The target for today was Lorient. It is on the Brest Peninsula just West of St. Nazaire on the coast. We didn't take-off until 1100. Rendezvous was at Lizard Pt. southwest England. Major Sheridan, Lt. Stockton, Lt. Goetz, Capt, Cole, Lt. Broussard and myself. Over the Channel, Maj. Sheridan, Lt. Goetz and Capt. Cole turned back with turret trouble. The raid was fairly successful. It was hard to see the target and observe the hits as there was an overcast that extended out to the water. At our bombing line, we could see under the overcast and made our run on that observation. Little heavy flak was encountered with no fighter activity. Back at the base the field was closed in fog, made several passes but could not get lined with a runway. My gas was extremely low by now. The visibility was about 1/4 of a mile. I finally lined up with a runway and landed at Chelveston about 12 miles away. As I hit the ground the red light on my gas tanks lit up. In other words if I hadn't landed on that pass I would have had a force landing. I did not have enough gas to climb up to bail out. Was interrogated there and brought here by truck. So ended our second raid.

Nov. 23/42 Monday
Lt. Robey was the only officer to go on raid this morning, on St. Nazaire. They took-off about 1000, and landed at Exeter in Southwestern England about 1630. Report is that Lt. Art Reddig's plane is missing. He was in my flight at Adv. School at Phoenix. We both had the same instructor. He may turn up in England as there are lots of fields he could land on. I hope so at any rate. He had Capt. Charles Miller, of group operations, with him as co-pilot. Major Charles Marion was made Lt. Colonel yesterday. He gave a party tonight at the Club. I went and flew the Link trainer until 2100, so I missed it. We get to sleep in in the morning. Breakfast is between 0800 and 0900, an hour later than usual. Kind of a holiday, I guess, or maybe the lull before the storm. I flew my plane back here from Chelveston this afternoon. It is in good shape but for checking oil leak in #1 intercooler and superchargers.

Nov. 24/1942 Tuesday
We had a very light day today. Had one ground school class on aircraft recognition. We received amazing news today and that was that Capt. Harold Fulghum, group navigator, bailed out over St. Nazaire in yesterday's raid. The story has it that the plane in which he was flying was hit by an ack Fulghum shell which burst the hydraulic lines in the cockpit. This fluid looks much like blood and it is thought that Harold thought that the Pilot and co-pilot had been killed and before the bombardier could stop him he had jumped. They saw his chute open. It is thought that he was wounded for the nose of the plane had blood on it and also the door from which he jumped.

It has been confirmed that Lt. Reddig's plane is missing. His plane was seen to go up on its back and start down in a spiral. Three chutes were seen from the crew bailing out. At least some of them got out. All in all the group really took a beating. The target was pounded very effectively. No one has returned from Exeter as yet. Several of the planes are not flyable. Lt. Robey is alright. We do not have any raid scheduled for tomorrow. My plane is all set.

Nov. 25/42 Wednesday
Lt. Robey returned today. He had Lt. Goetz's plane on the raid and it returned with the left elevator shot up to the extent that it will need replacing. Goetz, Stockton, Conver, Dubell, Bryant, myself and Capt. Lorne and Capt. Denison went into Northampton tonight on the QT. We had a very enjoyable time. We went dancing at the Salem, I met Jean Rowe, a very nice brunette. I invited her to the Club dance tomorrow nite. We send a truck into Northampton whenever we have a club party. Sounds like it might be a damn good deal. Tomorrow being Thanksgiving —pork chops probably.

Nov. 26, 1942 Thursday (Thanksgiving Day)
There was an alert called tonight but the mission was cancelled. My plane was loaded with 5 x 1000 pounders. It is still all set. There was a flying schedule put up today, but it was cancelled on account of weather. About 1400 we had a practice alert. Sirens blew and everyone rushed to air raid shelters. The Commandos stationed here went to their battle stations and all in all the practice was carried out very efficiently. Menu: Beef broth soup , Cabbage, raisin & apple salad
Mashed potatoes & gravy
Beef roast
Boiled carrots
Bread, butter, Peanut butter & marmalade
Coffee, Dessert Bread pudding

It wasn’t exactly the type of Thanksgiving dinner we were use to but it was alright. The English people were told, by parliament, to treat all Americans to parties and invite them home today because we had given our traditional turkey dinner to the hospitals in England. Of course, they didn't conduit us about it, ha ha. After the mission for tomorrow was cancelled, the party in the evening was really a knock-down drag out affair. I have never been to a party where there were more people inebriated in my life. Jean came and we had an enjoyable evening. Three of us couples took a recon to Northampton about 0100 in the morning. Back about 0300 and so to bed.

Nov. 27, 1942 Friday
Got up today about 1000. Had Link trainer at 1030 with Lt. Goetz. Spent a very quiet afternoon. In the evening played a little blackjack. No luck. No mission in the morning. Weather not too sharp. Plane loaded with bombs all set. Wrote folks and Dottie.

Nov. 28, 1942 Saturday
Up rather early today. Officer's call at 0800. Attended a "Prisoner of War" picture and then Goetz, Stockton, Maj. Sheridan went into Thrapston to the Barclay Bank where we had some of our money changed to 10 pound notes. We were going to have our pictures taken, but there were no photographers in the town. Early in the afternoon Goetz and I noticed a twin engine, R.A.F. Mosquito flying around with one engine feathered. It flew around for about an hour apparently getting ready for a landing. Goetz and I were going out to watch him land but we were side tracked at the Orderly Room. In a few minutes one of the Sgt.'s came in the room and said that some plane trying to land had flown smack into a truck. The plane was evidently trying to land when it went out of control. It barely missed a B-17F, skidded across the runway into the rear end of a parked truck. It demolished the truck and plane. Both men in the plane were very seriously injured, in fact, the radio operator died at the hospital several hours later. The pilot suffered two broken legs and severe cuts and lacerations around the face and chest. He has a 50/50 chance to live.

The plane is the newest plane made by the British. It is an all wood plastic job and very fast comparable to the A20. I went to the dispensary today and received my stimulating tetanus shot. The three of us were going to go into Northampton, but we have a raid to do in the morning. My plane is all set with 5 one thousand pounders. I don't know the target as yet. We'll probably get up at 0400 in the morning for the briefing. We received our food ration today of peanuts, candy, cigarettes and cookies.

Nov. 29/42 Sunday
Raid for this AM was called off at about 0100 because of weather. Our raid was to be La Pallice. No flying. Went to a beautiful little church about 1/4 mile from the post, but their services had been held earlier in the day so we missed it. The Church has a tall steeple and is about 1100 years old being built 800 A.D. There is a picturesque graveyard in the church yard. One grave had an inscription dating back to 1794. Most of the slabs which at one time stood upright marking the graves, now tilt at every angle and the writing on them is not legible. Nothing doing in the afternoon. All our bicycles were turned in to be reissued later in the week. Rained a little in the evening. Nothing doing in the morning so far.

Nov. 30/42 Monday
No change today. Plane still all set with 5 x 1000 pounders. The weather was good today. General Longfellow and General Cater paid us a visit yesterday and as a result the post is confined for a week. It seems as though no one saluted him while he was here. Poor boy. I guess they are all childish. It's a wonder he didn't pull out a tire gauge and start checking the air in all the tires on the post. If we go on two or three missions and risk our lives every day and when we come down we don't salute a general as he passes by in his car we get confined. Maybe we should arrange to take him on a couple of them. Maybe he would find out there's a war going on. I'm pished off. We can still have our 48 hours passes, however. The enlisted men have a lot of fun on their 6's and it's a helluva note. Going on 48 hour with Goetz's crew Wednesday if everything goes OK. No raid scheduled for tomorrow. Attended a lecture given by a squadron leader of the R.A.F. on fighter tactics and bomber tactics. We should get paid tomorrow. I hope so because of our London trip. I hear they really charge hell out of you there.

Dec. 1, 1942 Tuesday
Nothing new. Sgt. Hamilton, my engineer, is in the hospital with a cold. I guess he will miss out on the pass tomorrow. I hope no mission will be called.

Dec. 2, 1942 Wednesday
Went out to plane at 0900 for a couple hours of formation flying on a new type we may use. We were all set to taxi out and take-off and it was called off. Decided to have it in the afternoon and our pass started at 1200, so I sweat that one out too. Maj. Sheridan said I would have to postpone my pass because of the flight, but the flight, as usual, was called off at the last minute. I was dressed in my blouse, in going out to fly, so when it was cancelled, I hopped on the truck and went to Kettering where we caught the 1430 train to London. We got there about 1700 and went to the Park Lane Hotel where we had reservations. Lt. Goetz and crew, myself and crew and Dr. Lorne squadron flight surgeon, and Lt. Conver. We had a marvelous time. Spent most of it quenching our thirst. Got in that morning rather late. Up early.

Dec. 3, 1942 Thursday
Went to Q.M. supply and bought some underwear, etc. Went to Austin and Reed store and purchased some pajamas, ties, etc. We made reservation for George Black's musical stage production, "Best Bib & Tucker" and so at 1430 we went to see it. It was very good. On the order of Hellzapoppin. Prior to the show we had a cabby take us to the interesting features in London. We saw Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, House of Commons and Lords, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus; etc, The bombed areas were interesting. Whole blocks were leveled. The ruins were appalling. It is hard to imagine the amount of damage the Jerries actually did. We saw where the 2000 pounder hit and failed to explode near St. Paul's Cathedral. They used the tall church steeples as landmarks and the areas around them are scenes of utter desolation. They have the area fairly well cleaned up now. The cabby said that if the R.A.F. had not made their desperate effort, and a successful one, to stop the Jerry raids, England would have folded in about two months. They were on their last legs and no foolin’! The taxis in London are really marvelous. They are mostly driven by old, grey-haired men, and the way they handle the car and the way they get around in traffic is amazing. The cabs are real old and extremely different from anything in the States. They are kept bright and shiny, however, and very comfortable. They are also very cheap. Our tour cost us 8 shillings $1.60. We thought of going to see George, but he was busy so we put it off for the next time. You know he's the King of the British Empire. We met Pilot Officer Dave Thompson, a friend of Goetz and from his hometown, at the Officers' Club. We had a very nice chat and then went to the hotel where we had a few snifters and then to bed.

Dec. 4, 1942 Friday
We met Lt. Wheeler, from our base, at the Officers’ Club and Dining Room so we made arrangements to ride back with him at 1300 rather than take the train. We went to Harrods, the finest and most exclusive department store in London, after our breakfast. We purchased some fleece lined boots and gloves. We tried to find some gifts to send home, but didn't have any good luck. After dinner we motored home and got to see a lot more of England. Arrived here at about 1500.

Lt. "Dagwood" Keneally, one of the officers I went to primary with, landed here on account of weather. He's in about the same spot as Mackin is in. He is in operations of the 306th group located at Thurleigh. I think we have a mission for the AM. Don't know anything about it yet. Letter from Dottie. Sis's birthday tomorrow.

Dec. 5, 1942 Saturday
It was raining quite hard when we went to the 0830 briefing. The mission for the morning was to be on Lille, France. It was cancelled due to the weather. Goat and I have Link trainer this morning. I was given a superior rating in using the SBA (Standard Beam Approach). It's the highest rating given. After lunch Goetz and I cleaned up our room. Lt. Stockton is in London on 48 hour pass. He left yesterday about noon. He is due back tomorrow. I spent another hour in the Link this afternoon. Plane is still loaded with 10 x 500 lbs. They were switched for the 5 x 1000#'s for the particular target we've been assigned the past two mornings. We can expect a raid any morning. I don't see why in the hell they don't send us to Africa where we would have some flying weather and be able to bomb hell out of the Jerries there. Lt. Keneally left this morning for his base. Winds blowing like hell outside.

Dec. 6, 1942 Sunday
Raid today was on Lille, France. It was quite successful with some damage to locomotive and carriage factory there. We suffered no losses although one B-17F was seen to go down in flames. It was from one of the other groups on the raid. We took-off at 10:30 and were over our target about 12:00. We had about 9 squadrons of Spitfires accompanying us on the raid. That is, for all the Groups on the raid. They were the 91st, 305th and 303rd. The Spits were like a bunch of little chicks flitting about the mother hen, the Fortresses. It was indeed a beautiful sight. We were attacked by several FW190's and several ME109's. One FW190 made a suicidal dive through our squadron. Its guns were blazing, but no hits were made. It came very close to my plane. I could almost see the expression on the pilot’s face. Lt. Swindle gave him several long bursts with the nose guns. One of the planes in our squadron got him as Swindle saw him burst into flames and explode as he struck the earth. Flak was slightly heavy and seemed to be quite inaccurate. One Spitfire was shot dawn by gunners on the Fortress who mistook it for a ME109. We returned about 1330, with all planes intact. Capt. Cole was the only plane to turn back before reaching the target. A supercharger blew up on him and he was forced to return. He landed with a flat tire and 5000 lbs. of bombs. Everything OK.

Dec. 7, 1942 Monday
A year ago today America entered the War with the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japs. Today we are (?) on our way to victory and have revenged the Japs with tremendous Naval victories at Coral Sea, Guadalcanal, etc. A year ago today I wore my civvies for the last time for the duration. I was washing my new car at the time at Taft, California where I was just finishing basic flying school. Spent a quiet day today. Checked plane and found that #4 supercharger needed replacing. Plane is in hangar now. Should be out tomorrow. The reason we had so much trouble with our turbos yesterday was because we had to pull nearly 50" of H.P. to catch up with the other two squadrons in the Group. A squadron from one of the other fields tacked on our first two squadrons, so Col. Wallace thought he had the Group together and really stepped on it. When he saw the other squadron pull out of the formation and he saw us trailing he realized his error and slowed up enabling us to catch him after giving our turbos hell. In evening the gang went into Cambridge. Stock and I ended up with a couple pretty nice dates. Doris Walters was my date. Went dancing and dining.

Dec. 8, 1942 Tuesday
Took plane out of hangar and was all set for test hop, but it was called off at the last minute. Bomb bay tanks and baggage racks were taken out to the dispersal area. Maybe we go to Africa pretty soon. An alert was called and then we were released. Everybody is raring to go to the Africa affair. Tanks and racks were not installed, but were to be ready for installation at a moment's notice. Stock brought his plane back from Thurleigh where he had SBA equipment installed. In evening went into Cambridge and saw Doris. Had a pretty good time. Stock and Goetz stayed here as they had to shoot a couple nite landings apiece.

Dec. 9, 1942 Wednesday
We learned that Lt. Hayes and crew, who started on a flight to Northern Ireland to run some fuel consumption flights with pursuits, became lost and ended up in Irish Free State. The Free State is neutral so the crew and plane is probably interned until such a time that arrangements are made for their release. Only 8 planes in squadron now. With his loss, it is doubtful whether he will join us, if and when he is released. Goetz, Stock and myself were going to practice SBA on Stock's plane this morning, but weather prevented it. Believe it or not (according to operations). The squadron flew in the afternoon. It was a formation and landing technique practice. Maj. Sheridan was very well satisfied with the showing we made. We have a mission in the morning. The target is an air depot NE of Paris.

Dec. 10, 1942 Thursday
The Mission was cancelled at the last minute due to weather conditions. The target was to be an air depot and supply base at Romilly, France. There were about 13 huge hangars and repair shops. We were to fly just north of Paris. Fighter support was to accompany us to within about 100 miles of target and then we would pick them up again coming from the target.

After the mission was cancelled a Mr. Hayes and Mr. Phillips, representing the New York Times, took pictures of my crew and airplane. Several different shots were taken. They will probably appear in papers and magazines in the States. I was scheduled to fly tonite, but it was cancelled because of high winds and rain. Went into Cambridge dancing, drinking and dining. Had a good time.

Dec. 11, 1942 Friday
No flying today. I went into Kettering and picked up some cleaning. Called Cambridge in the evening and made arrangements for party. Doris invited several of us to her house for XMAS party. I hope we can make it. We have a mission (raid) scheduled for tomorrow. It is the same raid as scheduled for the 10th. Hope weather is good. Two more raids and my crew should get the air award for five raids.

Dec. 12, 1942 Saturday
We got off at 1000. Our target was the Romilly Air Depot, but due to overcast we finally had to hit the marshalling yards at Rouen, France. It was our last resort target. Both the primary and secondary targets were covered by an overcast. We spent about 2-1/2 hours over France trying to find a spot to bomb. All the while we were attacked by enemy fighters. We lost three fortresses and we shot down about 10 enemy fighters. Capt. Frost and Lt. Flickinger were on the plane that went down. Apparently it wasn't my turn yesterday. This is what happened: Lt. Goetz flying on Col. Robinson's right wing, had to turn back due to technical failures on his plane. I was flying the same position in the 2nd element, so I pulled up in the front element and took the place he had vacated. Lt. Flickinger, spare plane with our squadron, took my place in the 2nd element and about 20 minutes later was seen going down with his tail surface torn or shot off. I think the crew got out safely, however as about 9 chutes in all were seen coming from the plane. Pretty close, huh.

We bombed the railroad yards at Rouen, but I don't think it was too effective, We were hampered by poor visibility due to the overcast over most of France. My tail gunner shot down a ME109F over the channel and it was seen to crash into the water. Four bombs on my plane now. I think my ship and crew have been on more complete missions than any on the field. That is the ship and the same crew each time. Went to Cambridge in the evening and helped Capt. Hagenbuch celebrate his birthday. We had dates and had a swell time.

Dec. 13/42 Sunday
Very quiet today. The fellas are taking the loss of the ships and crews yesterday very well. We lost some darn good men and several of my personal friends. I checked my plane today. The pilot's windshield was cracked from the concussion caused by the guns in the upper turret firing at zero azimuth straight ahead. It was about the only damage done. #1 and #4 superchargers are taking a beating, but should hold out for a couple more shows. Had Link for an hour this evening. Called Doris, but could not make connections. I fly SBA in the morning and also fly tomorrow night. Col. Marion and Capt. Lyle off for Africa.

Dec. 14/42 Monday
Nothing new. Lt. Stockton off on 48 hour to London. Goetz goes tomorrow and then I'll probably go over France and the old homestead will be quiet. For once. Gave my plane the once over. Painted my fourth bomb on the fuselage and now she's all set for the fifth. I hope our gunners do better jobs on the next raids. Group got only two on Rouen (Romilly) raid. 306th bagged 14, so they reported (?). May have mission in the morning, but weather looks pretty bad. Flew SBA with Capt. Cole this morning. Worked fair, found out later we didn't let equipment warm up enough. Received two boxes today from home. Clayt & Lee and Mother & Dad. Gifts were really swell.

Dec. 15/42 Tuesday
Nothing new. Weather still foggy and rainy. Scheduled to fly a little formation, but a minor repair job was needed on my radio so I stayed on the ground. Upper turret gunners are getting a little practice with the plane on the ground. A couple of cubs dive down on the planes and the turret gunners track them. 2 x 1000 loaded for raid scheduled for tomorrow. Weather looks bad. Will probably be called off. Goetz to London on 48.

Dec. 16/42 Wednesday
Raid called off on account of weather. Weather bad. Received confirmation that my tail gunner has received credit for downing an ME109F. Sgt. Blankenship, Asst. Engineer and ball turret operator and Sgt. Jurosek, tail gunner, both claimed the plane. They flipped and Sgt. Jurosek won so he is credited with the victory. That means he will receive the Air Award medal. One more raid and I am supposed to receive one. We are going to paint a black swastika on the 4th bomb. Party in the evening. I brought Doris from Cambridge. We had a good time. All 48 hour passes have been cancelled as there are quite a few venereal disease cases from the 427th in the hospital. Stock back at noon.

Dec. 17, 1942 Thursday
No flying today. Weather still foggy and rainy. Perhaps it is for the best as there were a lot of hangovers this morning. Goetz back at noon. Lloyd and I lose our 48 hour passes due to restriction to the post. Will resume again probably around the 1st of January. Mission maybe tomorrow.

Dec. 18, 1942 Friday
No mission. Went into Cambridge. Goetz, Stockton and I had our photograph taken. Bought a Christmas tree. I guess we'll have a regular Xmas after all.

Dec. 19 Saturday
The "Jerry Jinx" appeared in the Daily Herald today. Mitch and Swindle were in the photo. We went into Cambridge and got our photos. They came out surprisingly well. Doris helped us shop for Xmas tree decorations, electric bulbs and everything. I bought Goetz and Stock each a Christmas present. Mission scheduled for tomorrow. It is the Romilly Air Depot. The target we started out for the last time. Maybe we can get to it this time. We hope anyway. (This damn GI ink).

Dec. 20/42 Sunday
As usual, here it is Sunday and another raid. We have now had 3 of 7 raids on Sundays. We took off at 1000, reached the Channel at about 1200. Unfortunately, my #2 turbo-regulator went out on me and I had to turn back after hitting the Channel. I was certainly disappointed. Lt. Swindle was acting squadron bombardier and was with Maj. Sheridan. We came back and landed at 1330, after stooging over England trying to find the field. My navigator had a tough time finding our position, as we had to let down through an overcast. The rest of the boys came back from the raid OK. They did a pretty fair job of bombing. Goetz, Robey and I all had to turn back because of mechanical trouble. Goetz's turbo blew up and punctured his right tire. When he landed he ran off the runways and sunk into the mud. Very little damage was done other than the tire, tube and turbo. Lt. [Oliver] Witt, 359th, was forced to land in the Channel and no word has been heard from him yet. Major Romig and Capt. Calhoun landed at Bovingdon with a badly shot up aircraft. The crew bailed out before they made their crash landing. All OK. B-24's gave the bombing formation trouble as they kept busting up the B-17's formation and by not flying in the proper position or at the proper altitude. About 6 Liberators and Fortresses were lost on the raid and about 27 enemy aircraft were destroyed or damaged.

Dec. 21, 42 Monday
Not much doing today. Went out and checked my plane and test-hopped in the afternoon. It worked perfectly at 25,000 ft. Another picture of "Jerry Jinx" and all the officer crew appeared in the paper. This time it was the "Stars and Stripes", a forces paper printed in London.

Dec. 22/42 Tuesday
Weather was pretty good today. Maj. Sheridan went to Bomber Command today at a meeting of all squadron CO's and Groups CO's to iron out formation and escort protection for future raids. Lloyd and I went into Kettering to get some laundry and cleaning and also to do some more Xmas shopping. Lloyd and I flew in the evening from about 2000 to 2100. The outer circle lights were out and it was really hard to find the field despite the full moon. The British blackout is quite effective. I landed 3 times in 33 minutes without landing lites. We thought there might be nite intruders around. Lloyd got lost from the field and landed about 30 min. after I did. There is supposed to be a Xmas party for a group of English children tomorrow sometime.

Dec. 23/42 Wednesday
Today we had a practice mission with 4 Groups participating. We were to have squadrons of Spitfires attack us to learn where the best spot would be to have our escort fighters fly to give the most protection. Everything went off OK only there were no Spits around. They were weathered in and if they had taken off they would have had to land someplace else and in that way, they would have left London undefended. So, we flew at 25,000 for a couple of hours accomplishing very little. The little war evacuees were standing by to watch our take-off. I guess the fellas that were not on the flight had a great time entertaining them. There were about 80 of them with the average about six years.

There is a bomb loading for tomorrow 10 x 500. Don't know what the target is yet. Incidentally I co-piloted for Maj. Sheridan in my plane today. Have a Xmas party scheduled for Xmas nite. We Are inviting some American nurses over.

Thursday Dec. 24/42
We had another hi-altitude mission today. The Spits were weathered in again but bombing practice was carried on anyway. Three 100 pounds [bombs] were taken on the practice mission. I didn't go on the hop. My ship is all set now after having two new supercharger regulators on engines #1 and #2. Had a party in the evening at the Officers' Club. Got out of this world. Nothing scheduled for in the morning. Santa comes tomorrow.

Dec. 25/42 Christmas Day, Friday
Up early. We opened our Xmas presents about 1300. Had a nice turkey dinner. Billy B., Don, Maj. Sheridan, Buck, Goetz, Lloyd and myself were all at the tree in the afternoon to get their gift. Don, Goetz and I bought each of the others a gift and vice versa. It was a little party all of our own. We had a party at "Club 66" in the evening. We fixed up the club from a vacant room in the barracks. Not bad either. We sent a car for 7 nurses, good old American gals, from Diddington. We had a big time. Raid called off for the morning as the weather is bad.

Dec. 26/42 Boxing Day, Saturday
Field is red with ceiling and visibility zero. Everyone recuperating from a rather strenuous holiday. Today is the day that here in England all the employers give their employees an extra box or bonus for Xmas. A day that is usually high-lighted by many big athletic events. We had June Simpson and Eva over today for coffee and fruit cake. Had a delightful time looking at snapshots. They are both 2nd Lt. (WAAF's) who work in the ciphering department at headquarters.

Dec. 27/42 Sunday
Had roll call at 0800 and a meeting at 1000 on the Sperry computing sight in the turrets. Just a refresher to help improve our marksmanship on raids. Field is still fogged in so our practice bombing mission for this afternoon was called off. Formation of a two Group Wing promises to take our operation officer so there should be some pilots pro-meted. Wrote letters in the evening.

Dec. 28/42 Monday
Nothing now. Heard that 48 hour passes will start again soon. Weather was cloudy and a little rain fell. Late in evening heard that our 48 hour starts tomorrow. Flying for the afternoon called off.

Dec. 29/42 Tuesday (London)
Flew SBA with Stockton in morning for about 2 hours. Took off for London at 1430. Took the train from Northampton, Arrived in London about 1700 o'clock. Went to the Savoy Hotel, where we had suite reservations for eight. Capt. Cole's crew and my own were with us. That is, the officers. The enlisted crews went to the Washington Club. The Savoy Hotel is beautiful. In peacetime it would be 100% better. Lloyd, Mitchell, Swindle and myself stayed in our suite. In the evening we went downstairs to the American Bar and drank beer and Scotch. Had a marvelous time. Met Martha Raye and had a chat with her. She was going to Africa in the next 32 hours and apparently headed for a good bender. I proved right later on as we met her again at the Merry Go Round Club. We were with two American nurses we had met at the American Bar. Martha was out of this world. She was coaxed (very little) to get up and sing. She did and it really stunk. She sang "Honeysuckle Rose" and one other. She really had a whiskey tenor. We tried to get in the Embassy Club, but without a membership card, it was impossible. The doorkeeper did pour us a spot of tea, of all things. "Out of this world". We finally ended up back at the Savory about 0130.

While at the Savoy we met Mr. Robert Page, a really perfect gentleman. I honestly believe that he knows everybody that is anybody in London. He knows all the R.A.F. Aces such as "Sailor" Malone. He knows all the big musical comedy stars in London and also the radio artists such as Arthur Askey. We met Peter Croft, an actor, whose father was the Honorable Archie in the old Frank Watanabe radio skits back in the states. He knows Cary Grant, Gary Cooper, Bebe Daniels, Ben Lyon, Beatrice Lille, Gloria Swanson, Ray Milland, Kay Francis and many other famous celebrities. His room was lined with photographs and signatures of famous people. He was the one who got Ray Milland into the movies and gave him his stage name. Ray use to work for him in his quite profitable wholesale florist business. We gave Bob our promise that we would meet him the next day at his private club. The Kimal Club.

Dec. 30/42 Wednesday (London)
Up at about 0900. Had breakfast (tea and crumpets) in bed by pressing a button which brought a waiter, took our orders. Wow! What comfort. We had lunch at the Officers' Club on Audley Street and then went to the Kimal Club, where we met Bob. He showed us his flat upstairs. Bob, Ed, Bryant, Lloyd and I decided to go see "Full Swing" a musical comedy stage production. Mitch and Swindle had dates. We went to the show at 1745. It was a marvelous show with a beautiful chorus. Bob got us the best box in the theater and arranged beforehand with the star of the show for her to sing "Mama Buy Me That" to Lloyd. So the whole chorus and this beautiful leading lady sang to Lloyd up in our box. The spot lite was on him and he really sweated it out. Had fun. Went back to Savoy after the show and had a wonderful dinner in the Grill. Dozens of waiters took care of our table which Bob had arranged with the head waiter beforehand. What a guy. After dinner we went to the lounge and had a few drinks and so to bed. Incidentally I forgot to mention that we Americans had created quite a bit of excitement the nite before, in the lounge, by singing "You Are My Only Sunshine", much to the amazement of the highest of society in London. I think they really enjoyed it however. We received several down the nose glances, but not many. I guess they realized that we were on leave and celebrating a little. So to bed. Oh! yes, heard over the radio at 2400 that nite that American Fortresses had raided Lorient so we knew the boys had gone on a raid. We would have to miss it. Three Forts were reported missing. We sweat that out until we found that it was none of ours.

Dec. 31/42 Thursday (London till 1330)
Met Bob at the Kimal Club and told him goodbye. He said that the next time he would have a party all set for us. Chorus girls and all. We then did a little shopping, had lunch at the Officers' Club at 1200 and departed for Molesworth at 1330 on the train. Arrived at Bedford about 1530 and truck took us to the field. Called Doris about the date for tonite (New Year's Eve). She had to work. She is in the NFS (National Fire Service) and had to be on all nite. Too bad. Went to the Officers' Club and stayed stone sober as there was to be a raid in the morning. That was called off 15 minutes before midnite and by that time all the spirits were gone so to bed at about 0130. Saw the New Year in with "Auld Lang Syne".

Jan. 1/43 Friday
First day was rather slow. Scheduled to shoot skeet in the afternoon, but rain caused it to be postponed. Had intelligence lecture in the afternoon. Checked plane and guns and they were in good condition. All set for a raid. Plane still has 4 x 1000 in bombay. Went to show in the evening. "The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse", Ed Robinson, Humphrey Bogart.

Jan. 2/43 Saturday
Was scheduled to bomb at 1200 bad weather postponed it. Later called off altogether. Bomb loading for raid in the morning 4 x 1000. St. Nazaire, Sub pens again. Flak is pretty good there so we should have a good time. I feel like hell with a cold, but I hope to feel better in the morning. I've been taking cough medicine and nose drops all evening.

Jan. 3/43 Sunday
Up at 0500. Briefing was at 0600 and take-off was set for 0900. Target was St. Nazaire. I went out to my ship at 0800 o'clock and had everything set for take-off. At 0830 I taxied out to edge of perimeter and stopped to wait to tag on ships in front of me. I was to fly #3 in the first element. The 303rd led the entire raid with Gen. Hansell, new Wing C.O., riding with Col. Wallace and Capt. Southworth in the lead ship. As I sat there waiting to join in taxiing for take-off, I suddenly heard a loud explosion. Sgt. Hamilton said it sounded like a super-charger but I knew that was impossible as they weren't in use at the time. I looked at the tires and they were OK and then the smoke came filtering up front. It was gun smoke. I left my seat and went back to see what had happened. Sgt. Gross and Sgt. Jurosek were leaving the plane after Sgt. Hamilton had kicked the door open. Sgt. Gross was bleeding quite badly but wasn't hurt seriously. He had a few scratches on his face and a few shrapnel holes in his leather flying equipment. Sgt. Jurosek was alright but for a piece of shrapnel in his arm. I sent them both to the hospital. The cause of the accident was Sgt. Hand, right waist gunner, who had checked his gun for proper feeding and through a malfunction the gun fired five times before it stopped. He did not have it pointed out of the window at the time. It was in its carrying rack so that when it went off it tore several large holes in the rear door, went through some armor plating, through the horizontal stabilizer and elevator. It caused more damage than any raid I've been on. I went up to the hospital, after taxiing my plane back to the dispersal area, and found that the boys were OK. I had a meeting at 1000 with my crew present and gave them hell in general. The cause of the firing of the gun was either by incorrect assembly or the adapter.

Lt. Goetz, Lt. Stockton, Capt. Southworth and Major Sheridan were the only pilots to go on the mission. The planes were to land at Davidstow, in Southwestern England, because of the long trip. However at about 1630 the planes began appearing over the field and it was then apparent that they were returning here. We watched the planes as they came in. There were four missing. Included in the missing were Major Sheridan and crew. Lt. Goetz had gone as his co-pilot. It was a hard blow to all of us, especially Stock and myself as Goetz was our "buddy" and roommate. Maj. Sheridan's loss was a blow to the whole Group. All the fellas again feel as they had after the fatal El Paso crash. We later learned that his plane had gotten a direct 20 mm, hit in the cockpit. It probably killed both the Major and Goetz instantly. The plane went into a dive, no chutes were reported to have left the ship. Those missing:

Maj. Sheridan
Lt. W. H. Goetz
Lt. Madrid
Lt. R. W. Smith
Sgt. Shelly (Engineer)
Sgt. Walters (Radio)
Lt. Clark )
Lt. Adams ) Pilots of planes missing.
Lt. Saunders )

All in all it was a fatal trip for the 303rd Group. Fighters were the cause. The 303rd reported 12 (e) fighters destroyed, 5 probables and 3 damaged. This is a little higher than the actual number shot down, it was believed.

It is apparent that the B-17 is in dire need of a nose gun or turret of some kind. The enemy planes can come in from level at about 10:30 to 13:00 and can pound the fortresses unmerciful without accurate fire being placed upon them.

Lower turret gun cuts out here when bombay doors are open and also for the props so it has only a small area it can come directly to the front, but only to the side and forward about 45 degrees.

I was suppose to have flown Lt. Saunders position. He took my place when I failed to get off. That's the second time the plane that took my place on a raid has been shot down, "A charmed life, maybe - huh".

In the evening we had a party at the Club. Everyone was out of this world and forgot their sorrows. Went to Diddington to see some American nurses, friends.

Jan. 4/43 Monday
Checked plane at the hangar and it is coming along O.K. It should be out within a week. Capt. Cole is acting Sqdn. C.O. in the absence of Capt. Hagenbuch, the ranking officer. He's in London on pass. Back tomorrow. Stock and I were informed that we were to get Goetz' things together for shipment to the States. I think Capt. Billy B. is going to move in with us. Went to Cambridge in the evening to see Doris.

Jan. 5/43 Tuesday
Dull day. Plane should be out of the hangar soon. Scheduled to fly Billy B's plane on practice bombing mission, but it was cancelled on account of visibility and weather in general. The 303rd has now lost 25% of its air echelon in two months of operational flying. Nine crews and 11 airplanes, including Hayes. However he should be back one of these days. Rapid turn-over.

Jan. 6/45 Wednesday
Jerry is still in the hangar. There is quite a bit of sheet metal work to do. Stock leaves tomorrow for London on 48 hour pass. 3" of snow on the ground this morning. I was sure surprised. It has been raining and snowing most of the day. All flying was definitely cancelled. Cambridge in the evening.

Jan. 7/43 Thursday
Jerry is about ready to go out. Should be ready in the morning. Don and I got Lt. Goetz' things together to ship home when headquarters gives the word. Don left about 1200 for London. Home about Saturday noon. Lt. Hank Harden, in group Intelligence, is staying with Stock and I now. He knew Capt. Cole, Maj. Sheridan, etc., before they joined the 427th at Boise. Then the 31st Reconn. Saw "Dodge City" in the evening.

Jan. 8/43 Friday
Was scheduled to fly SBA with Capt. Billy today, but excessive ice on wings caused cancellation. Mitch taxied Jerry to dispersal. She is all set for raid that has been called for in the morning (Saturday). We usually have them on Sunday. Day early, ha. Plane loaded with 10 x 500. It sounds like Romilly, Rouen or one of the targets like that. Air depot or marshalling yards. Had Link in the evening and saw "Goldwyns Follies" at the cinema.

Jan. 9/43 Saturday
Jerry Jinx is still all set. Raid was called off at 0230. Weather bad. It was to be on Emden, Germany. It would have been the first American raid on Germany in World War II. We will still have it probably as soon as the weather clears up a little.

Flew SBA in the morning with Billy B. in Stockton's plane. It worked out pretty good. Stock burns a little when the rest of the pilots use his plane as it puts a lot of time on it. His plane is the only one equipped with SBA equipment.

Received some Emeralds from Dottie. First time I've heard from her in months. Also heard from folks and Lynn. Saw "I Wanted Wings" tonight. It was pretty good, but some of the shots were faked to the extreme.

Jan. 10/43 Sunday
Strange for a Sunday as there was no raid scheduled for today. Weather is really bad. Visibility is about 200 yards. Ceiling zero. There is a thin coating of ice over everything. Transportation is practically nil due to the icy condition of all roads. It is even dangerous walking.

Jerry Jinx was de-bombed. This weather is pretty tough on her but won't hurt her much. Hank is leaving tonite as he has been transferred back to the 305th Group at Chelveston. I am "Duty Officer" tonight, but all transportation has been cancelled so I don't have a damn thing to do. Usually have to accompany troops on liberty trucks into town.

Jan. 11/43 Monday
Nothing today. Played bridge at the Club in the afternoon. Wrote letters in the evening. Went to Diddington to visit some American nurses. Of course they weren't home. Back early. We are on alert for raid tomorrow morning. Jerry is all set to go. Called Dot in evening.

Jan. 12/43 Tuesday
We were suppose to be awakened at 6:00 for breakfast if the raid was to go on, but it was called off on account of weather so Don and I slept till about 0900. Latish for a long time.

It seems Bomber Command puts us on an alert if there is a 50/50 chance of the weather being good. The weather was bad so we stayed home. Have 48 hour pass starting tomorrow. Will probably go to London. Have reservations at the Savoy.

Jan. 13/43 Wednesday
We had a surprise mission today on Lille. It was the Fives Plant Machine Shop and Locomotive Works. We were briefed about 0800 and took off rather late at 1240. We attacked the target at 1430 and some very good hits were observed. The mission was extra tough because of the continual prop wash of the Group ahead of us. In fact it was so bad that two 17's collided in mid-air just ahead of me and the one plane broke in two and they both went down. It was really a horrible sight to see. Some parachutes were seen to come from the plane. We encountered very little fighter activity. A few were seen to attack the Groups ahead of us but we had none attacking us.

The bombing was rather promiscuous [indiscriminate] from the target to the coast. We had 5 x 1000 on board and they really raise hell on contact. Stock's tail gunner died from lack of oxygen on the trip. He pulled out of formation over the Channel and hurried to the field in an effort to save him but the lack of oxygen and the extreme cold temperature was too much and he died. He was Sgt. Paul Ferguson and a helluva good boy. He was the only casualty for the Group, a far cry from the last raid, in which we lost Buddy Goetz and Maj. Sheridan.

We heard that Lt. Schowalter and two other men that had gone down over Paris on the Romilly raid are in allied hands. Will be with the Group soon probably.

Jan. 14/43 Thursday
We were suppose to go on pass yesterday, but put if off for Lille raid. We were suppose to go on a raid this morning but it was cancelled. Went on pass and arrived in London about 1500 o'clock. Stayed at the Strand Palace. Met Bobby Page and had a few drinks at the Kimal Club. Ate at the Officers' Club. Bed about 01:30.

Jan. 15/43 Friday
Up about 1000. Breakfast in bed. Powdered eggs and toast (ach). Made reservations for Bobby Howes' "Lets Face It", a musical comedy stage production. We met several musical comedy stars - Nigel Patrick, Capt. in Army, and Peter Croft, starring in "Murder Without Crime" which we saw after "Lets Face It". Both were quite good. Also met Squadron Leader Al Deere. He is the most famous New Zealand war ace. He has about 27 victories to his credit with three DFC's. He is to be a Wing Commander soon as he is going to General Staff School.

Jan. 16/43 Saturday
Oh yes, I met Arthur Askey, English Bob Hope, last nite at dinner at the Savoy. Mitch and I went looking for a Cocker Spaniel puppy, but couldn't find one. Bobby is going to get me one. Hopped train at St. Panthias station and arrived at Bedford about 1500 where a reconn was waiting to take us home. Party in the evening at the field. The Squadron has been on the alert three mornings. Up at five. Wow three times.

Jan. 17/43 Sunday
Weather bad. We were scheduled for Group formation practice and then Squadron practice and finally all flying cancelled. Visibility about two miles. Bomb loading 5 x 1000 for tomorrow but the weather looks bad. Played poker and won £3. Played bridge all afternoon.

Jan. 18/43 Monday
Heard that Jimmy Johnston lost his life (?) in one of the B-17's that collided on the Lille Raid. He was with us at Boise and a good boy. A Capt. at the time. Some chutes were seen to come from the falling planes. Here's hoping he made it.

We had a two hour alert last nite as about 60 bombers hit at London. Very little damage was done and 10 planes were destroyed. It was a retaliation raid for the RAF bombing of Berlin the last week.

Jan. 19/43 Tuesday
All transportation called in. A lot of walking now by all personnel. Result of accident over the weekend in which two enlisted men were killed in Jeep. I was suppose to go to Cambridge this evening, but of course trip cancelled due to lack of transportation. Weather is very foggy. Jerry Jinx still loaded with 5 x 1000. Received six letters yesterday and two today. Morale of men not too good. Lt. Hayes back soon (?).

Jan. 20/43 Wednesday
Weather was pretty bad today. A ground fog kept everyone on the ground. Germans raided London and killed many school children with a direct hit. We were on alert again. To bed early.

Don S. went to hospital. His stomach has been giving him trouble. It seems to be going through the Base as a lot of the men and officers are ill too.

Jan. 21/43 Thursday
Weather was clear all day. Good day for a mission but the weather over the target was probably bad. Don still in the hospital. He should be out tomorrow. I flew two hours formation today. It was practicing the new type formation to cope with head-on attacks. We will soon have twin 50's in the nose. I hope it won't be too late for someone.

I swung my compass this afternoon. I was scheduled to make a nite X-C but it was cancelled because of the prospects of a mission in the morning. My plane is loaded with 5 x 1000. So to bed.

Jan. 22/43 Friday
This morning, we were to be the first American attack on Germany. We were to bomb some sub pens and workshops Northwest of Bremen 7 miles. The area is very highly defended with heavy flak and JU88's and ME110's as well as FW190's. The first two are twin engine fighters. The area included Bremen, Hamburg and Wilhelmshaven. All are big sub pens and sub building yards.

The mission was cancelled at 0800. Thirty minutes before we were to taxi out. Bad weather was the cause. I had a splitting headache most of the afternoon. Saw "Sea Hawk" in evening. I think we have the same target for in the morning. Jerry Jinx is loaded with 5 x 1000. Stock got out of the hospital today and went on a 48 hour pass. Still, we have no transportation. They are going to try to save 300,000 gallons of gasoline in three weeks.

Jan. 23/43

EPILOGUE

The date January 23/43 was written in the journal by Ehle as he finished his entry on the 22nd. The ominous silence of the blank page itself tells the sad ending of Reber's fascinating story.

The Reber Crew was lost on 23 Jan 1943, Mission #11 to Lorient, France in B-17F #41-24607 Jerry Jinx (427BS) GN-W. They ditched in Bay of Biscay after being downed by German fighters, caused by a break up of the formation when another Group flew above the 303rd BG(H) on the bomb run.

S/Sgt. Irwin D. Blankenship and Sgt. Roger W. Milford are listed on the Wall of Missing at Brittany American Cemetery near Manche, France.

Lt. Ehle H. Reber, Lt. Allan D. Mitchell, Lt. Jarold J. Byrom, Lt. Robert J. Swindle, T/Sgt. Duke L. Hamilton, S/Sgt. Donald A. Mayo, S/Sgt. Luthur N. Gross and Sgt. Victor G. Hand and are listed on the Wall of Missing at Cambridge Cemetery, England.

The airport at Walnut Ridge, Arkansas was named "Swindle Field" in honor of Lt. Swindle. The airport at Malin, Oregon is being renamed in honor of Lt. Reber.