COMBAT CHRONOLOGY
US ARMY AIR FORCES
MEDITERRANEAN - 1943, PART 1
JANUARY 1943 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
FRIDAY, 1 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, 15 B-24s of the 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) strike the harbor
at Tunis hitting the turning basin, the area just southwest of it, and nearby
rail junction. A few of the aircraft bomb the southwest and southeast of
Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s hit the harbor at Tunis, while B-26s hit the marshaling
yard. B-25s on a mission against shipping near La Goulette abort due to
weather. Fighters escort bomber missions and C-47 transport runs and carry out
routine patrols.
HQ 52d Fighter Group, and it's subordinate 2d, 4th and 5th Fighter Squadrons
with Spitfires, moves from La Senia to Orleansville, Algeria.
HQ 82d Fighter Group is established at Telergma, Algeria upon arrival from
Northern Ireland. The subordinate squadrons, the 95th, 96th and 97th Fighter
Squadrons with P-38s, move from Tafaroui to Telergma, Algeria.
HQ 310th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's subordinates, the 379th, 380th,
381st and 428th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-25s, move from Telergma
to Berteaux, Algeria.
SATURDAY, 2 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Crete, B-25s of the 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) bomb the airfield at
Heraklion while B-24s of the 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) hit the airfield
at Kastelli/Pediada. Twenty fighters and a few bombers are destroyed on the
ground.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb the harbor and shipping at La Goulette. Escorting
P-38s and Bf 109s engage in air battle, each side losing two aircraft. A-20s
and DB-7s, with fighter escorts, consecutively raid Sousse harbor. DB-7s
again hit the harbor. B-26s with fighter protection, the the bridge north of El
Djem. Fighters fly escort, patrol and reconnaissance missions, attacking enemy
vehicles and aircraft. Several trucks and fighters are claimed destroyed.
SUNDAY, 3 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Greece, RAF Baltimores, operating under the IX Bomber Command, bomb Suda
Bay and Timbakion Airfield. A few of the aircraft also bomb Kapistri.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
All XII Fighter Command units in Tunisia, i.e., fighters and light bombers
(A-20s and DB-7s), attack tanks which, with infantry and artillery support,
have overrun French troops at Fondouk el Aouareb. The fighters and light
bombers attack the tanks as they move west from Fondouk. Several tanks are
reported destroyed or aflame and numerous other tanks and vehicles are damaged.
Spitfires based in Algeria escrot C-47s on transport missions.
The 91st Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group with P-39s, moves from Fedala
to Mediouna, French Morocco.
MONDAY, 4 JANUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s sent, in two forces, to bomb Bizerte are forced to abort
by heavy clouds over the target. B-25s hit the railroad yards at Kairouan
while A-20s attack Cherichera. Fighters provide escort for the bombers and for
C-47 transport runs, and fly reconnaissance and patrol missions.
The Luftwaffe sends six Ju 88s with Bf 109 cover to attack the Thelepte,
Tunisia airfield; they are intercepted by five P-40s of the 58th Fighter
Squadron, 33d Fighter Group which shoot down one Ju 88 and one Bf 109.
The 35th Troop Carrier Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group, based at Blida,
Algeria with C-47s, begins operating from Telergma, Algeria.
TUESDAY, 5 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force): In Tunisia, B-24s of the 93d
Bombardment Group (Heavy) bomb Sousse harbor (clouds obscure the primary target
at Tunis). RAF Liberators of No. 160 Squadron hit the harbors at Tunis and
Sousse during the night of 5/6 Jan.
On the ground, a severe two-day storm on 4 and 5 Jan sharply decrease the
capacity of Bengasi port and forces the British Eighth Army to make a greater
use of the more distant port of Tobruk.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force): In an organizational change, Allied
Air Force is activated to have operational control of Allied air units in
Northwest Africa. The new unit includes the USAAF Twelfth Air Force, the RAF
Eastern Air Command and such French air units as might be assigned or attached
to it. The command serves under the direction of Lieutenant General Dwight
Eisenhower, Commander-in-Chief, Allied Forces. The USAAF system of area
commands in Northwest Africa is reorganized. HQ Twelfth Air Force announces
that the Moroccan, West Algerian and Central Algerian Composite Wings
(Provisional) are to be replaced by the 2d, 1st and 3d Air Defense Wings,
respectively, when they arrive in the theater.
In Tunisia, B-17s, with a large P-38 escort, attack the Sfax power station
while fighter-escorted B-26s hit the Kairouan Airfield. Other fighters fly
patrols, reconnaissance and C-47 escort.
HQ 81st Fighter Group is established at Mediouna, French Morocco upon
arrival from the US. The group's 92d Fighter Squadron with P-39s is
established at Port Lyautey, French Morocco.
The 16th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 27th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20s moves from Barbe-du-Tlelat to Nouvion, Algeria.
The 48th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group with P-38s moves from
Youks-les-Bains to Berteaux, Algeria.
WEDNESDAY, 6 JANUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, A-20s, in two forces, hit a military camp south of Kairouan
while B-25s hit the Kairouan railroad yards. Fighters escort bombers, carry
out patrols and reconnaissance flights, and accompany C-47s on transport
missions.
HQ 350th Fighter Group and its 347th Fighter Squadron with P-39s and P-400s
is established at Oujda, French Morocco upon arrival from England. The group's
346th Fighter Squadron, which has been in French Morocco with P-39s and P-400s
since Nov 42, also moves to Oujda. The 346th enters combat in Jan 43.
The 60th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group, with P-40s, moves from
Telergma to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
The 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20s moves from Mediouna, French Morocco to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria and flies
it first combat mission on 22 Jan.
The 345th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group with P-39s and P-400s
transfers from Casablanca, French Morocco to Oujda, French Morocco.
THURSDAY, 7 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, 25 B-24s of the 93d, 98th and 376th Bombardment Groups (Heavy)
are dispatched to hit the shipping in Palermo harbor; weather reduces the force
and only ten bomb the target through broken clouds.
In Greece, one B-24 on a special mission bombs Maiouli Quay at Piraeus.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
An Allied Air Force General Order makes the USAAF Twelfth Air Force
responsible for air support of US ground forces in North Africa and the RAF
Eastern Air Command responsible for support of the British First Army. However,
units are to be placed under operational control of the other as the situation
might dictate.
In Tunisia, B-26s bomb the airfield and barracks at Gabes while A-20s attack
troop concentrations at Kairouan. Fighters escort both raids and also carry
out several reconnaissance missions.
HQ 33d Fighter Group moves from Telergma, Algeria to Thelepte, Tunisia.
HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) moves from Mediouna, French Morocco to
Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
The 91st Bombardment Squadron (Light), 27th Bombardment Group (Light) moves
with its A-20s from Ste-Barbe-du-Tlelat to Nouvion, Algeria.
FRIDAY, 8 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-24s hit Tunis after weather and engine trouble prevent a
planned attack on Bizerte.
In Libya, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, attack a rail junction near Tripoli
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s hit the docks at Ferryville and the naval base at Bizerte.
B-25s hit bridges and rail junctions at Graiba and at Kalaa Srira while B-26s
hit Kairouan Airfield. The heavy and medium bombers are escorted by P-38s.
A-20s, escorted by P-40s, bomb tank concentrations near Gabes. Other fighters
fly numerous patrols and reconnaissance missions.
The 59th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group moves with its P-40s from
Casablanca, French Morocco to Thelepte, Tunisia.
The 443d and 444th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 320th Bombardment Group
(Medium) arrive at La Senia, Algeria from England with B-26s.
SATURDAY, 9 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Twenty P-40s fly a cover mission for the RAF.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Libya, B-26s with fighter escort, hit an airfield 10 miles south of
Tripoli.
In Tunisia, B-25s attack shipping off the northern Tunisian coast.
HQ 14th Fighter Group and it 49th Fighter Squadron with P-38s move from
Youks-les-Bains to Berteaux, Algeria.
HQ 27th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 17th Bombardment Squadron (Light)
with A-20s moves from Ste-Barbe-du-Tlelat to Nouvion, Algeria.
The 85th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20s moves from Mediouna, French Morocco to Thelepte, Tunisia. The squadron
flies its first combat mission tomorrow.
The 441st and 442d Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 320th Bombardment Group
(Medium) arrive at La Senia, Algeria from England with B-26s.
SUNDAY, 10 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-24s forced by overcast to divert from the primary target of
Bizerte, strike La Goulette, the seaport of the city of Tunis. P-40s fly
reconnaissance missions.
The 82d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with
B-25s transfers from Gambut, Libya to Tmed El Chel, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-26s, with P-38 escort, attack the marshaling yard and oil
tanks at Gabes. B-26s, sent against Sousse, abort due to bad weather. A-20s
with P-40 cover, hit the military camp at Kebili. Fighters escort C-47
missions and fly reconnaissance and patrols. One P-40, flown by Major Philip
Cochran, CO of the 58th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group, bombs and
demolishes the Hotel Splendida, the German HQ in Kairouan.
Seven Bf 109s bomb and strafe Thelepte Airfield.
The 308th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group with Spitfire Mk Vs begins
operating from Casablanca, French Morocco instead of Tafaraoui, Algeria to
provide protection for the Casablanca Conference between Churchill and
Roosevelt.
MONDAY, 11 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, bomb a road junction at Tripoli during the night of 10/11 Jan. P-40s
fly reconnaissance and escort missions.
In Italy, US B-24s hit the harbor at Naples.
The 81st Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with
B-25s transfers from Gambut, Libya to Tmed El Chel, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Libya, B-17s bomb the fort and town of Gadames and attack the rail bridge
and highway bridge across the Oued el Akarit, NNW of Gabes, Tunisia. Escorting
P-38s engage in a 25-minute combat with attacking fighters, shooting down one
and severely damaging another; two P-38s are lost.
In Tunisia, B-25s bomb shipping along the northeastern Tunisian coast;
escorting P-38s claim three aircraft shot down.
Other fighters fly patrol and reconnaissance, and escort C-47 transport
planes.
Six Bf 109s with additional overhead cover strafe Thelepte Airfield.
TUESDAY, 12 JANUARY 1942
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, P-40s carry out three scramble interceptor missions claiming two
fighters shot down. RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, hit Tripoli.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Libya, 12 B-17s of the 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy) bomb the Castel
Benito Airfield south of Tripoli, dropping 120 120-pound fragmentation clusters
and 75 500-pound and six 1,000-pound high explosive bombs claiming the
destruction of at least 20 parked aircraft. The heavy bombers claim
destruction of 14 attacking Italian Mc 202 aircraft in aerial combat.
Over the Mediterranean, B-25s sent to hit shipping in the Straits of Sicily
and in the Gulf of Gabes fail to find targets and return with their bombs.
In Tunisia, B-26s hit the bridges at La Hencha and Chaaba, completely
destroying one bridge. Fighters fly patrols, reconnaissance, and C-47 escort,
and strafe moored seaplanes and destroy numerous trucks during a sweep over the
Ben Gardane area.
Seven Ju 88s and five Bf 109s attack Thelepte Airfield.
HQ XII Fighter Command transfers from Tebessa to La Senia, Algeria.
The 92d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group with P-39s transfers from
Mediouna, French Morocco to Thelepte, Tunisia.
WEDNESDAY, 13 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, weather prevents B-24s from attacking Tripoli and also causes
B-25s sent to bomb Bir Dufan to abort. P-40s fly cover for RAF Baltimores.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
Over the Mediterranean, B-25s, with P-38 escort, bomb a partially sunken
freighter between Tunisia and Sicily.
In Tunisia, fighters fly uneventful reconnaissance and patrol missions.
Five Ju 88s drop 40 bombs on Thelepte Airfield.
THURSDAY, 14 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25s strike motor transport near Gheiada, with P-40s providing
cover. B-24s fail, due to weather, to locate Sousse harbor (the primary
target), but several bomb in the target area and along the road near Teboulba.
In Libya, RAF Liberators, under the operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, hit Tripoli, Tagiura and the supply dump at Misurata.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
The Casablanca Conference opens. Prime Minister Churchill, President
Roosevelt, and the Combined Chiefs of Staff discuss offensive actions in the
Mediterranean and pledge to accept only unconditional surrender of the Axis
countries.
In Tunisia, 26 B-17s, with an escort of 17 P-38s, attack docks and shipping
at Sfax; a total of 253 500-pound bombs are dropped from 23,400 feet. B-26s,
with fighter escort, attack the rail junction at Kalaa Srira and the junction
and warehouse at Mahares. Fighters fly reconnaissance, patrols and C-47
escort.
Over the Mediterranean, B-25s, with P-38s, fly an anti-shipping sweep in the
Straits of Sicily; no ships are sighted but vehicles and troop concentrations
are strafed by the fighters on the return trip.
FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, B-24s bomb the harbor at Tripoli, scoring hits on vessels and on
the shore areas near the harbor. P-40s fly sweep and fighter-bomber operations
as the British Eighth Army begins an assault on the Buerat line and a drive on
Tripoli. RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber Command,
hit a road junction at Tripoli.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-26s attack the railroad and highway bridge across Oued el
Akarit, NNW of Gabes. Escorting P-38s flight a long battle with enemy
fighters; two B-26s and two P-38s are shot down. Fighters fly several
reconnaissance and patrol operations, intercept enemy aircraft attacking
airfields in the Labasse area, and escort transport aircraft.
In the Mediterranean, B-25s and B-26s fly three counter-shipping missions
north and northeast off Tunisia, claiming one vessel left in flames. Escorting
fighters strafe trucks and claim two aircraft shot down.
Nine Ju 88s escorted by four Mc 202s attack Thelepte Airfield; eight Ju 88s
are shot down by P-40s of the 33d Fighter Group; AA gets the ninth Ju 88.
SATURDAY, 16 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, B-24s hit Tripoli harbor and the town area. RAF Liberator Mk IIs
of No. 178 Squadron bomb the road junction and Benito Gate at Tripoli. P-40s
fly patrol, scramble and fighter-bomber missions as the British Eighth Army,
having passed through the enemy's main defenses at Buerat, pushes toward
Tripoli.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-26s on a shipping strike in the Straits of Sicily
fail to find any ships.
In Tunisia, A-20s on an armed reconnaissance return to base with their bombs
when no targets are sighted. Fighters and F-4s fly reconnaissance and patrols
while Spitfires escort C-47s on ferry runs.
The 32d, 352d, and 419th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 301st Bombardment
Group (Heavy) with B-17s transfer from Biskra, Algeria to Ain M'lila, Algeria.
SUNDAY, 17 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, B-24s bomb Tripoli harbor. P-40s fly reconnaissance, patrol, top
cover and fighter-bomber missions as British ground forces pursue the enemy
twoard Tripoli, reaching positions ten miles E of Misurata on the coast with
Beni Ulid on the south flank. During the night of 17/18 Jan, RAF Liberators
hit Castel Benito Airfield and the road junction west of Homs.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25s, with P-38 cover, attack the rail junction at Graiba.
Fighters fly routine reconnaissance and patrols and escort C-47 missions.
In the Mediterranean, B-25s on a shipping strike fail to locate any vessels
and return with their bombs.
HQ 52d Fighter Group transfers from Orleansville, Algeria to Telergma,
Algeria.
HQ 301st Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 353d Bombardment Squadron
(Heavy), with B-17s, transfers from Biskra, Algeria to Ain M'lila, Algeria.
MONDAY, 18 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, B-24s strike Tripoli harbor. P-40s fly top cover and
fighter-bomber missions. General Montgomery orders accelerated day and night
pursuit toward Tripoli as contact with Rommel's forces is temporarily lost due
to terrain and obstacles.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Libya, B-17s, with fighter escort, bomb Castel Benito Airfield.
In the Mediterranean, B-26s attack two vessels in the Gulf of Hammamet.
In Tunisia, fighters fly reconnaissance and patrols and escort C-47 runs.
TUESDAY, 19 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-24s hit the harbor at Sousse.
In Libya, B-24s hit the harbor at Tripoli while B-25s hit Castel Benito
Airfield and motor transport on the road. Ground forces regain contact with
the enemy. The coastal force reaches Homs while the southern column presses
toward Tarhunah.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s hit the industrial area just south of Tunis and the
marshaling yard at Jabal al Jallud; P-38s provide cover. B-25s hit Medenine
and a nearby motor pool. Fighters continue routine reconnaissance, patrol and
C-47 escort missions.
The 2d, 4th and 5th Fighter Squadrons, 51st Fighter Group with Spitfire Mk
Vs, transfer from Orleansville, Algeria to Telergma, Algeria.
72 P-40Fs of the 325th Fighter Group are flown off the USS Ranger and land
at Cazes Airdrome, Casablanca.
WEDNESDAY, 20 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, B-24s hit the harbor at Tripoli. P-40s fly top cover and
fighter-bomber operations as enemy resistance to the British advance stiffens
in the Homs-Tarhunah area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s hit Cap Mangin near Gabes when cloud cover prevents
bombing of the primary target, Tripoli, Libya. Fighters continue
reconnaissance and patrols, and C-47s continue transport flights with fighter
cover.
In the Mediterranean, six B-25s of the 310th Bombardment Group (Medium),
escorted by 12 P-38s of the 14th Fighter Group, hit shipping in the Straits of
Sicily sinking a tanker.
THURSDAY, 21 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, B-24s bomb Tripoli harbor while B-25s attack targets along the
Surman-Az Zawiyah road. P-40s fly fighter-bomber missions against ground
targets as the British Eighth Army overcomes resistance in the area. The enemy
strengthens the Tarhunah area at the expense of the Homs front, causing General
Montgomery to decide to make the main effort along the coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, six B-26s of the 319th Bombardment Group (Medium) hit
two freighters northeast of Cape Bon, sinking one and damaging the other. The
escorting P-38s shoot down two Z 1007 bombers and then mix it up with six Bf
109s, claiming three shot down but losing two P-38s.
In Tunisia, B-25s bomb the highway and railroad bridge just north of
Pont-du-Fahs. Fighters fly bomber and C-47 escort and fly sweeps and
reconnaissance, attacking and destroying a large number of trucks on the
Gabes-Ben Gardane road. A-20s and fighter escort bomb and strafe a tank and
truck concentration near Ousseltia in support of elements of the US 1st Armored
Division which begins the Allied assault in an effort to push the enemy back in
the Ousseltia Valley into which a new enemy offensive under new German
Commanding General, Colonel General von Arnim, has advanced in a four-day push.
24 P-38s find the Gabes-Medenine-Ben Gardane road crowded with traffic; they
swept down and strafe, claiming 65 vehicles destroyed plus two Bf 109s
destroyed in the air.
A detachment of the 154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with
P-39s begins operating from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria. The squadron will fly
its first combat mission as a tactical reconnaissance unit on 26 Jan.
FRIDAY, 22 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, B-25s bomb a road junction near Tripoli. P-40s fly cover and
fighter-bomber missions as the British Eighth Army's 22 Armored Brigade passes
through 51 Infantry Division at Homs and drives beyond Castelverde. Forces to
the south advance to within 17 miles of Tripoli.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
Another step is taken toward amalgamation of US and RAF air strength in the
Allied Air Force. Air support for US and British ground forces in North Africa
is coordinated by the formation of a new combined HQ, Allied Air Support
Command, subordinate to the Allied Air Force and under the command of Major
General Laurence S Kuter, USAAF. The new command consists of the USAAF XII Air
Support Command, the RAF No. 242 Group, a photographic reconnaissance unit and
any other units that might be assigned to it.
In Tunisia, B-17s, operating in two forces, bomb El Aouina Airfield in the
morning; B-26s hit the airfield shortly after noon; and B-25s attack later in
the afternoon. Two escorting P-38s are lost to enemy fighters. Fighters fly
escort for bombers and for C-47s and carry out numerous reconnaissance and
patrol missions. P-39s and P-40s support the Allied ground assault in the
Ousseltia Valley which has been halted to by strong opposition; the fighters
silence several machinegun positions. One P-40 is lost.
In the Mediterranean, other B-26s, on a shipping strike, severely damage a
freighter in the Straits of Sicily.
HQ 81st Fighter Group transfers from Mediouna, French Morocco to Thelepte,
Tunisia.
SATURDAY, 23 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24s bomb Palermo harbor during the night of 23/24 Jan.
In Libya, P-40s fly cover and fighter-bomber missions during the day as
Tripoli falls to General Montgomery's Eighth Army.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s, in two forces, hit the Bizerte naval base and shipping in
the immediate area. Much damage is done to base facilities and one motor
vessel is sunk; 75 to 100 enemy fighters attack the formations, and the B-17s
and escorting P-38s claim 20 destroyed; two P-38s are lost and four more are
missing. A-20s, and escorting P-40s, attack a heavy gun battery, machinegun
nests, and two infantry companies while supporting ground forces in the battle
area south of Ousseltia. Fighters of the XII Air Support Command destroy over
20 vehicles on the Gabes-Ben Gardane highway.
In the Mediterranean, B-26s hit shipping off northeastern Tunisia, attacking
several vessels and claiming one destroyed; escorting fighters hit trucks and
tanks near Enfidaville, Tunisia on the return flight.
The 91st Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group with P-39s transfers from
Mediouna, French Morocco to Thelepte, Tunisia.
MONDAY, 24 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-24s strike Medenine Airfield while P-40s fly cover and
fighter-bomber missions as Axis forces retreat westward from Tripoli.
The 84th, 85th and 86th Fighter Squadrons, 79th Fighter Group with P-40s
transfers from Egypt to Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25s and B-26s, operating in two forces, attack Medenine
Airfield; B-17s hit shipping in Sousse harbor; fighters escort bombers and
attack vehicles and troop concentrations along the battleline.
MONDAY, 25 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Libya, P-40s carry out fighter-bomber missions. The British 7 Armored
Division, in pursuit of the enemy, reaches Az Zawiyah.
HQ 79th Fighter Group transfers from Egypt to Libya.
The 345th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Fayid, Egypt to Tobruk, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, bad weather cancels heavy and medium bomber missions. Fighters
fly reconnaissance, patrol and C-47 escort missions.
TUESDAY, 26 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, headwinds prevent B-24s from reaching Naples, the primary target,
before dark, so they divert to Messina, bombing the town and the area around
the train ferry terminal.
In Libya, P-40s fly fighter-bomber operations, refueling at Castel Benito.
The 415th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Fayid, Egypt to Tobruk, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-26s on a shipping strike abort because of weather
that limits air activity.
In Tunisia, fighters fly reconnaissance and local patrol missions.
WEDNESDAY, 27 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s bomb Naples and Messina during the night of 26/27 Jan.
In Sicily, B-24s hit Palermo during the afternoon, after weather causes a
diversion from the primary target at Naples.
In Libya, the British 7 Armored Division meets stiffening resistance near
Zuwarah.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25s hit shipping off the north coast of Algeria,
attacking two destroyers and leaving one on fire. B-26s on a shipping strike
fail to attack sighted vessels because of weather.
In Tunisia, A-20s attack the town of Al Mazzunah while fighters escort
bombers and fly reconnaissance and local patrols.
THURSDAY, 28 JANUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, 60 heavy and medium bombers (B-17s, B-25s and B-26s) in three
waves attack the harbor, shipping and marshaling yards at Sfax; all missions
are escorted by P-38s. P-40s of the XII Air Support Command attack infantry
and artillery while supporting French and US ground forces in the Ousseltia
Valley where the Allies gain control of the western exit and half of Kairouan
Pass.
HQ 320th Bombardment Group (Medium) and its 441st, 442d, 443d and 444th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-26s transfer from La Senia, Algeria to
Tafaraoui, Algeria.
FRIDAY, 29 JANUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, three consecutive waves of B-17s attack the docks and shipping
at Bizerte while B-26s hit El Aouina Airfield. Fighters escort the bombers and
C-47s and carry out reconnaissance.
In the Mediterranean, B-26s on a shipping strike between Tunisia and Sicily
severely damage a cargo liner.
SATURDAY, 30 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s bomb the train ferry terminal at Messina. Direct hits are
scored on a ship and AA battery near the terminal.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, over 50 B-17s bomb the docks and shipping at Ferryville. B-25s
hit railroad installations and warehouses at El Aouinet while B-26s bomb a
railroad south of Reyville. Fighters and A-20s carry out numerous strafing and
bombing operations against tanks, motor transport and along the battleline
between El Guettar and Faid.
MONDAY, 31 JANUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Lieutenant General Lewis H Brereton, Commanding General Ninth Air Force
assumes command of US Army Forces in the Middle East.
In Italy, B-24s hit the railroad ferry installations at Messina harbor. The
British 7 Armored Division finishes clearing Zuwarah.
HQ IX Fighter Command arrives at Kabrit, Egypt from the US.
The 343d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Kabrit, Egypt to Gambut, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s hit the harbor and shipping at Bizerte while B-26s bomb
Gabes Airfield. Fighters escort bombers and attack ground targets and furnish
cover for ground forces along the battleline between Gafsa and Faid.
With the conclusion of the Casablanca Conference, the 308th Fighter
Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, which has been operating its Spitfire Mk Vs from
Casablanca, returns to its base at Tafaraoui, Algeria.
FEBRUARY 1943 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
MONDAY 1 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
HQ 9th Fighter Wing is established at El Kabrit upon arrival from the U.S.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb the harbor and shipping at Tunis and shipping in La
Goulette harbor. Fighters escort bombers and cover ground forces in the
Sened-Maknassy area. A-20s and P-40s bomb tank and vehicle a concentration
near Sidi Khalif.
TUESDAY, 2 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
HQ 324th Fighter Group and it's 314th Fighter Squadron with P-40s transfers
from El Amiriya, Egypt to El Kabrit, Egypt.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25s and B-26s, in coordinated attacks, bomb El Maou Airfield
at Sfax. A-20s, with P-40s and P-39s escorting, bomb a munitions dump in the
battle area. Other fighters fly cover missions for ground forces along the
battleline and carry out reconnaissance operations.
WEDNESDAY, 3 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s hit the harbors at Palermo, Sicily and Messina, Italy; one
bombs Plati, Italy.
The 316th Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group with P-40s transfers from El
Amiriya, Egypt to El Kabrit, Egypt.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-26s attack Gabes and vessels between Tunisia and Sicily. B-25s
hit bridges over the river north of Maknassy, damaging the railroad bridge.
A-20s hit tanks and vehicles further north, and attack a large howitzer and
numerous trucks east of Ousseltia.
The 81st Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with
B-25s transfers from Tmed El Chel, Libya to Berteaux, Algeria. These units are
attached to the XII Air Support Command.
THURSDAY, 4 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
The 82d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with
B-25s transfers from Tmded El Chel, Libya to Berteaux, Algeria.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
The North African Theater of Operations, US Army is established with
Lieutenant General Dwight D. Eisenhower as commander. (Also see European
Theater of Operations above.)
In Tunisia, B-17s hit Gabes Airfield and a landing ground west of the town.
Weather prevents completion of a medium bomber mission against a landing ground
further southwest. Fighters escort the bombers and C-47s and fly
reconnaissance over the battle area.
FRIDAY, 5 FEBRUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, bad weather cancels heavy and medium bomber missions. Fighter
fly reconnaissance missions (strafing trucks near Jabal Ash Shamsi), local
patrols and escort for C-47s.
SATURDAY, 6 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
The 515th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Abu Sueir, Egypt to Gambut, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, XII Bomber Command cancels missions because of weather. P-40s
and P-39s fly reconnaissance and strafing missions between Sidi bou Zid and
Sfax. Spitfires escort transport and evacuation missions.
The Luftwaffe attacks an Allied convoy between Oran and Algiers and badly
damages some ships.
The 308th and 309th Fighter Squadrons, 31st Fighter Group with Spitfire Mk
Vs transfer from Tafaraoui, Algeria and La Senia, Algeria respectively to
Thelepte, Tunisia.
SUNDAY, 7 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s it the harbor at Naples, scoring a direct hit on 1 vessel
and hits on others.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Sardinia, over 50 B-17s and B-26s bomb Elmas Airfield and the seaplane
base at Cagliari; P-38s provide escort.
In Tunisia, fighters and A-20s fly reconnaissance over large areas of
eastern Tunisia; fighters strafe gun batteries in the Gafsa-Maknassy area.
HQ 31st Fighter Group transfers from La Senia, Algeria to Thelepte, Tunisia.
The 307th Fighter Squadron with Spitfire Mk Vs, assigned to the 31st, transfers
from Maison Blanche, Algeria to Thelepte
The 58th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group with P-40s transfers from
Thelepte, Tunisia to Telergma, Algeria.
MONDAY, 8 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s attack ferry installations at Messina.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb the docks and shipping at Sousse; B-26s and B-25s
bomb Gabes Airfield, also hitting the nearby marshalling yard. Two forces of
A-20s attack a vehicle and troop concentration east of Faid. Fighters escort
the bomber missions, strafe the Sened-Maknassy area and the landing ground at
Kebili, and fly routine reconnaissance and patrols.
HQ 33d Fighter Group transfers from Thelepte, Tunisia to Youks-les- Bains,
Algeria for R&R. The group is short of pilots and has only 13 P-40Fs left
after continuous combat since Nov 42. The group's 3 squadrons, the 58th, 59th
and 60th Fighter Squadrons, all transfer this week.
HQ 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and its 340th and 341st Bombardment
Squadrons (Heavy) with B-17s transfer from Biska, Algeria to Chateau-du-
Rhumel, Algeria.
TUESDAY, 9 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Crete, B-25s bomb several airfields.
HQ 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) transfers from Fayid, Egypt to Benina,
Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb Kairouan Airfield. Fighters strafe AA and
machineguns and trucks in the Faid Pass, buildings near Mezzouna, trucks in the
Station de Sened area, and fly escort and reconnaissance missions.
WEDNESDAY, 10 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24s sent to attack Palermo are forced to abort due to bad
weather. They jettison their bombs or return to base with them. One aircraft
scores a direct hit on a Sicilian highway.
In Libya, rainfall delays the British Eighth Army assault on the Mareth Line
positions at Ben Gardane.
HQ 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and its 512th, 513th and 514th
Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy) with B-24s transfer from Abu Sueir, Egypt to
Gambut, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25s attack shipping between Tunisia and Sicily,
claiming 1 vessel sunk and another badly damaged.
In Tunisia, weather cancels heavy and medium bomber missions. P-39s and
Spitfires of the XII Air Support Command strafe gun batteries, machinegun
nests, vehicles and troops in the Maknassy-Station de Sened-Bou Hamran area.
The 59th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group with P-40s transfers from
Thelepte, Tunisia to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
THURSDAY, 11 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Crete, RAF Liberators under operational control of the IX Bomber Command
are sent against Heraklion Airfield during the night of 10/11 Feb. Severe
weather causes them to abort near the south coast of Crete.
The 415th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Tobruk, Libya to Benina, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
Bad weather cancels all heavy and medium bomber missions.
In Tunisia, A-20s hit Station de Sened. Fighters escort light bombers and
transports, and fly reconnaissance and patrols.
A detachment of the 111th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group based
at Oujda, French Morocco with A-20s begins operating from La Senia, Algeria.
FRIDAY, 12 FEBRUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, heavy and medium bomber missions are cancelled due to weather.
A-20s attack gun installations west of Station de Sened. Fighters escort A-20s
and C-47s, and fly routine patrols.
The 347th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group with P-39s and P-400s
transfers from Oujda, French Morocco to La Senia, Algeria.
SATURDAY, 13 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s bomb the Naples area and Crotone Airfield and the city area
under storm conditions.
In Crete, RAF Liberators under operational control of the IX Bomber Command
attack Heraklion Airfield during the late afternoon and early evening. One
Liberator hits the Kastelli/Pediada Airfield on the return trip.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-26s bomb El Aouina Airfield. Fighters escort the B-26s,
strafe tanks near Station de Sened, and destroy several trucks and staff cars
in the Faid area.
The 59th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group with P-40s transfers from
Thelepte, Tunisia to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
The 414th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-17s transfers from Biskra, Algeria to Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria.
SUNDAY, 14 FEBRUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25s on a shipping strike return with their bombs
when no vessels are sighted.
In Tunisia, all heavy and medium bomber missions are cancelled by bad
weather. Fighters strafe vehicles and gun emplacements in the El
Guettar-Sened-Maknassy areas, and hit tanks and trucks near Sisi Saad. A-20s
bomb tanks in the Faid Pass, trucks near Maknassy and southwest of Faid, the
town of Maknassy, and railroad yards at Station de Sened. Enemy ground forces,
both armored and infantry, begin a drive, supported by artillery and dive
bombers, against Allied forces east of Sidi bou Zid.
HQ 350th Fighter Group transfers from Oujda, French Morocco to Oran,
Algeria. The group's 345th and 346th Fighter Squadrons with P-39s and P-400s
transfer from Oujda to La Senia, Algeria.
The 94th Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group with P-38s transfers from
Biskra, Tunisia to Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria.
MONDAY, 15 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
The Desert Air Task Force (DATF) is established with Brigadier General Auby
C Strickland as Commanding General. Whereas Desert Air Task Force HQ,
organized on 22 Oct 42, controlled US Army Mid East Air Force (USAMEAF)
tactical operations in the Western Desert, this new organization, with HQ at
Tripoli, Libya, supervises, operationally and administratively, all Ninth Air
Force units west of, and including, Marble Arch. In addition, General
Strickland is commander of US troops in the area.
In Italy, B-24s attack the harbor at Naples, scoring direct hits on 2
vessels.
In Libya, British Army ground forces resume operations toward the Mareth
Line as weather improves.
Colonel Hugo P Rush succeeds Brigadier General Patrick W Timberlake as
Commanding Officer of IX Bomber Command, which transfers from Ismailia, Egypt
to Bengasi, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-17s hits the harbor and shipping at Palermo.
In Tunisia, B-25s and B-26s attack Kairouan Airfield. Fighters support
Allied ground forces being pushed back from the Faid-Sidi bou Zid area to
positions at Sbeitla, Kasserine and Feriana. Enemy troops, vehicles, gun
positions, and tanks are repeatedly attacked. Fighters hit similar targets in
the Gafsa-Bou Hamran area.
Because of the German advance in Tunisia, the forward air base at Sbeitla,
Tunisia is evacuated.
The 97th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20s transfers from Thelepte, Tunisia to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria due to the
German assault.
TUESDAY, 16 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Crete, RAF Liberators under operational control of the IX Bomber Command
bomb Heraklion Airfield during the night of 16/17 Feb.
In Tunisia, the British Eighth Army's 7 Armored Division drives into Ben
Gardane, an outpost of the Mareth Line.
The 83d and 434th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 12 Bombardment Group
(Medium) with B-25s transfer from Gambut, Libya to Castel Benito, Libya.
The 345th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Tobruk, Libya to Benina, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25s dispatched on a shipping mission abort due to
weather.
In Tunisia, all heavy and medium bomber operations are cancelled due to
weather. A-20s, in support of hard-pressed Allied ground forces, bomb gun
positions west of Sidi bou Zid. Fighters fly repeated strafing missions
against troops and vehicles in the Gafsa area.
The 85th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20s transfers from Thelepte, Tunisia to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria due to the
German assault.
WEDNESDAY, 17 FEBRUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Twelfth Air Force):
The Twelfth Air Force and other organizations of the Allied Air Force are
transferred to the North African Air Force (NAAF) which supplants the Allied
Air Force. NAAF, in turn, becomes part of the Mediterranean Air Command (MAC),
a new air command which comes into existence on this date with RAF Air Chief
Marshall Arthur Tedder as commander. MAC also includes the RAF Middle East Air
Command (later RAF, Middle East) and the RAF Malta Air Command (later RAF,
Malta). The Commanding General of NAAF is General Carl Spaatz, USAAF.
In Sardinia, over 40 B-17s bomb Elmas Airfield; B-25s and B-26s hit the
Villacidro and Decimomannu Airfields.
In Tunisia, fighters escort bombers and support ground forces in the
Sbeitla-Kasserine-Feriana area. The fighters, along with A-20s, attack and
destroy numerous tanks, trucks and other vehicles moving against hard- pressed
British First Army forces.
The two airfields at Thelepte, with 124 operational aircraft on the, are
abandoned because of the German advance. Eighteen unflyable aircraft are
burned after 60,000 gallons (227,100 liters) of aviation fuel are poured on
them.
HQ 31st Fighter Group transfers from Thelepte, Tunisia to Youks-les- Bains,
Algeria. The group's 307th, 308th and 309th Fighter Squadrons with Spitfire Mk
Vs transfer from Thelepte to Tebessa, Algeria.
HQ 81st Fighter Group and its 91st and 92d Fighter Squadrons with P-39s
transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Le Kouif Airfield, Algeria.
The 60th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group with P-40s transfers from
Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Telergma, Algeria.
The 71st Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group with P-38s transfers from
Biskra, Algeria to Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria.
THURSDAY, 18 FEBRUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
HQ North African Air Force (NAAF) is set up under General Carl Spaatz,
USAAF, and the Twelfth Air Force becomes a paper outfit. Six principal
subordinate commands are specified, i.e.:
North African Air Support Command (NAASC)
North African Coastal Air Force (NACAF)
North African Photographic Reconnaissance Wing (NAPRW)
North African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
North African Training Command (NATC) Twelfth Air Force Units assigned to
NAAF described above are:
NAASC: XII Air Support Command [33d and 81st Fighter Groups and 47th
Bombardment Group (Light)]
NACAF: XII Fighter Command (31st, 52d and 350th Fighter Groups)
NAPRW: 3d Photographic Group
NASAF: XII Bomber Command [97th and 301st Bombardment Groups (Heavy);
17th, 310th and 319th Bombardment Groups (Medium); 1st, 14th and 82d Fighter
Groups; and the 68th Observation Group]
NATC: 15th Bombardment Squadron (Light)
In Algeria, weather cancels heavy and medium bomber operations.
In Tunisia, fighters provide direct support for the British First Army in
the Sbeitla-Kasserine-Feriana areas.
HQ 1st Fighter Group and it's 27th Fighter Squadron P-38s transfers from
Biskra, Algeria to Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria.
The 342d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-17s transfers from Biskra, Algeria to Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria.
FRIDAY, 19 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25s bomb the Gabes western area through heavy clouds.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
In Algeria, weather prevents heavy and medium bomber operations.
In Tunisia, fighters and A-20s of the XII Air Support Command are grounded
and unable to support ground forces as the enemy opens an attack on Kasserine
with infantry and tanks supported by artillery.
The 93d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group with P-39s transfers from Port
Lyautey, French Morocco to Berteaux, Algeria.
SATURDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Crete, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, bomb Heraklion and Kastelli/Pediada Airfields during the night of
19/20 Feb.
In Italy, B-24s bomb Crotone, Naples, Amantea, Palmi, Nicotera and Rosarno.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
Weather again severely limits operations.
In Tunisia, a handful of P-39s strafe trucks and half-tracks in the
Kasserine area as the enemy breaks through the Kasserine Pass and thrusts north
and west toward Thala and Tebessa.
HQ 33d Fighter Group transfers from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Telergma,
Algeria.
SUNDAY, 21 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
The North African Tactical Air Force assumes operational control of the
Western Desert Air Force; tactical groups remain administratively assigned to
the Ninth Air Force.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25s hit the railroad yards at Gafsa. Weather foils 3 attempts
by P-39s and Spitfires to furnish support to ground forces battling the German
drive north and west of the Kasserine Pass. Only 2 P-39s are able to reach the
enemy and strafe tanks and trucks.
HQ 31st Fighter Group transfers from Tebessa, Algeria to Youks-les- Bains,
Algeria. The 308th Fighter Squadron assigned to the group transfers its
Spitfire Mk Vs from Tebessa to Canrobert, Algeria.
The 86th and 97th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group
(Light) with A-20s transfer from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Canrobert,
Algeria.
MONDAY, 22 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
HQ 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) transfers from Gambut, Libya to Soluch,
Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
In Tunisia, A-20s of the 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and fighters, flying
close support to Allied ground forces, aid in repulsing Field Marshall Rommel's
drive toward Thala and Tebessa. The 47th flies 11 missions and bomb at minimum
altitude; 1 A-20 is lost after being hit by 3 Bf 109s; several aircraft sustain
wing damage from ripping antennae off German tanks and trucks. At 1915 hours
local the enemy begins a general withdrawal toward Kasserine. B-17s bomb the
Kasserine Pass while B-25s hit the nearby bridge and escorting P-38s strafe
retreating troops. Other B-25s hit the railway yards at Gafsa. P-39s of the
154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group fly 17 attack-reconnaissance
sorties over the Kasserine area destroying 3 tanks and damaging 10 trucks while
losing 1 aircraft.
HQ 81st Fighter Group and its 91st and 92d Fighter Squadrons with P-39s
transfer from Le Kouif Airfield, Algeria to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
The 307th and 309th Fighter Squadrons, 31st Fighter Group with Spitfire Mk
Vs transfer from Tebessa, Algeria to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
TUESDAY, 23 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s attack the Messina ferry slip, scoring direct hits and
leaving the target area burning.
In Tunisia, B-25s hit Arram in the Mareth Line during the late evening.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25s attack shipping north of Cap Bon, claiming 1
vessel sunk.
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb Kairouan Airfield and hit troops retreating through
the Kasserine Pass. B-25s and B-26s hit the Kasserine Pass and the bridge
nearby. A-20s and fighters also attack retreating columns in the Kasserine
area.
The 3d Air Defense Wing arrives at Oran, Algeria to control air defense
units in the Oran area as part of the North African Coastal Air Force.
HQ 99th Bombardment Group (Heavy), a B-17 unit, arrives at Navarin, Algeria
from the US.
WEDNESDAY, 24 FEBRUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25s sink several barges northeast of Cap Bon.
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb Kairouan Airfield. B-26s and B-17s bomb enemy
columns in Kasserine Pass and hit the town of Kasserine, while B-25s attack
highway traffic near Sbeitla. A-20s and fighters hit motor transport in a wide
area around Kasserine and Sbeitla.
HQ 81st Fighter Group and its 91st and 92d Fighter Squadrons with P-39s
transfer from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Le Kouif Airfield, Algeria reversing
a move made last Wednesday.
The 154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with A-20s transfers
from Oujda, French Morocco to join its detachment at Youks-les- Bains, Algeria.
Prior to WWII, the 154th was an Arkansas National Guard unit.
THURSDAY, 25 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s bomb Naples harbor and Crotone during the night of 24/25
Feb.
In Tunisia, B-25s attack motor transport on the Arram road.
The 512th, 513th and 514th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 376th Bombardment
Group (Heavy) with B-24s transfer from Gambut, Libya to Soluch, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb El Aouina Airfield. Fighters and A-20s hit troops
and military traffic in the Thala-Kasserine-Sbeitla areas and along the
Gafsa-Feriana road. Other fighters carry out widespread reconnaissance and
patrol missions. British First Army and US troops of the II Corps occupy
Kasserine Pass.
HQ 31st Fighter Group and its 307th Fighter Squadron with Spitfire Mk Vs
transfer from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Kalaa Djerda, Tunisia. The 308th
Fighter Squadron also with Spitfire Mk Vs transfers from Canrobert, Algeria to
Kalaa Djerda.
FRIDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40s carry out fighter-bomber missions as ground forces
maintain pressure on the enemy along the coast and on the Gabes road. B-25s
attack roads and motor transport in the Arram area during the night of 26/27
Feb.
General Bernard L. Montgomery sets 20 Mar as D-Day for an attack on the
Mareth Line.
The 328th, 330th and 409th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 93d Bombardment
Group (Heavy) cease operations from Gambut, Libya with B-24s and return to
their base at Hardwick, England.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
Lieutenant General James H. Doolittle assumes command of the XII Bomber
Command.
In Tunisia, B-17s, with P-38 escort, attack the docks and shipping at
Bizerte after RAF Wellingtons hit the same target the previous night. Fighters
hit trucks in the Pinchon-Ousseltia area and fly numerous reconnaissance
missions. Colonel-General Jurgen von Arnim's 5th Panzer Army opens an
offensive on a broad front toward Bedja and Medjez el Bab.
The 309th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group with Spitfire Mk Vs transfers
from Youks-les-Bain, Algeria to Kalaa Djerda, Tunisia.
SATURDAY, 27 FEBRUARY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40s fly top cover, strafing, and fighter-bomber missions
against positions along the Mareth Line.
The 515th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Gambut, Libya to Soluch, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
In Sardinia, B-17s bomb the Cagliari area and ships north of Capo d'Orlando.
In Tunisia, RAF Wellingtons hit Bizerte. Fighters fly sweeps and
reconnaissance, attacking ground forces at points along the battleline,
including the Medjez el Bab area where the enemy advance is being halted.
The 37th Fighter Squadron, 55th Fighter Group with P-38s arrives at La
Senia, Algeria from the U.S. This squadron will become the third squadron of
the 14th Fighter Group when it is reassigned to the 14th on 1 Mar.
The 85th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20s transfers from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Canrobert, Algeria.
A detachment of the 111th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with
A-20s ceases operating from La Senia, Algeria and returns to its base at Oujda,
French Morocco. Prior to WWII, the 111th was a Texas National Guard unit.
SUNDAY, 28 FEBRUARY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (North African Air Force):
In Tunisia, fighters and fighter-bombers hit troops, tanks, and motor
transport along the Tunisian battleline southwest of Maleur, at Sidi Nsir near
Pont-du-Fhas, northeast of Bedja, and in the Goubellat area. The 17th
Bombardment Group (Medium) sends 9 B-26s to destroy the La Hencha Bridge
between Gabes and Sfax. Their escort is jumped by Bf 109s and the bombers turn
back.
HQ 325th Fighter Group and it's 317th and 318th Fighter Squadrons with
P-40Fs arrive at Tafaraoui, Algeria from the U.S.
The 48th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group with P-38s transfers from
Berteaux, Algeria to Mediouna, French Morocco for R&R.
MARCH 1943 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
MONDAY, 1 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s raid the harbor at Naples; 1 bombs Soverato while 2 others
hit Staletti and Catanzaro as targets of opportunity. AA fire is accurate and
several B-24s are hit over Naples and Palmi.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
General Carl Spaatz assumes command of the Twelfth Air Force in Algeria.
Colonel Laurence P. Hickey becomes acting commander of the XII Fighter Command
until the arrival of Brigadier General Elwood R. Quesada. Lieutenant General
John K. Cannon takes command of the Northwest African Training Command (NATC).
In Sardinia, B-17s bomb docks and shipping, also hitting railroad yards and
the town area, at Cagliari.
In Tunisia, B-25s and B-26s of the Northwest African Strategic Air Force
attack bridges and AA gun positions in the La Hencha area. Fighters escort
bombers and hit ground forces in the battle areas around Sidi Nsir and Bedja.
B-25s of the Northwest African Tactical Air Force bomb the Mateur area.
In the Mediterranean, B-26s attack a freighter NE of Bizerte, Tunisia.
The 5th Bombardment Wing transfers from Biskra, Algeria to Chateaudun,
Algeria while the 47th Bombardment Wing moves from Chateaudun, Algeria to El
Guerrah, Algeria.
The 319th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group establishes HQ at Tafaraoui,
Algeria upon arrival from the U.S. The squadron is equipped with P-40s.
TUESDAY, 2 MARCH 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force B-17s bomb shipping and the
harbor area at Palermo.
In Tunisia, B-26s attack bridges and flak positions at La Hencha. Northwest
African Tactical Air Force fighters hit troops, tanks, and motor transport S of
Mateur and NE of Bedja as the enemy renews an attack along the Mateur-Taberka
road near Jefna.
HQ 33d Fighter Group and it's 58th, 59th and 60th Fighter Squadrons with
P-40s transfer from Telergma, Algeria to Berteaux, Algeria.
WEDNESDAY, 3 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24s dispatched against Naples fail to reach the primary target.
Several bomb the secondary target, Messina, while 3 bomb bridges at Bianco and
Siderno Marina.
In Tunisia, P-40s fly fighter-bomber missions along the Mareth Line as a
probing attack against the British 51 Division positions near Mareth is driven
back. The German Afrika Korps issues a plan for a counterattack from the
Mareth Line.
The 83d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with
B-25s transfers from Castel Benito, Libya to El Assa, Libya
The 343d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Gamut, Libya to Lete, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb docks and shipping at Tunis and shipping and a power
plant at La Goulette harbor. Fighters and medium bombers of the Northwest
African Tactical Air Force hit ground forces in the areas around Bedja, Bou
Arada, and Mateur. Fighting around Bedja subsides but enemy forces take
Sedjenane.
HQ 319th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 437th, 438th, 439th and 440th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-26s are pulled out of combat for training
and reorganization and transfer from Telergma, Algeria to Oujda, French
Morocco.
THURSDAY, 4 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40s fly top cover missions as the British Eighth Army
completes the concentration of troops and weapons in forward areas and awaits
an attack which seems imminent in view of German troop movements in the
mountains W of Medenine.
The 344th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24s transfers from Kabrit, Egypt to Lete, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25s and B-26s fly unsuccessful missions against
shipping between Tunisia and Sicily. B-17s attack a convoy NW of Bizerte,
Tunisia, claiming 4 vessels sunk.
FRIDAY, 5 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, bomb the harbor at Naples during the night of 4/5 March.
All operations by the IX Bomber Command are suspended for 7 days so the
crews can rest.
The 66th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group with P-40s transfers from
Libya to Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Strategic Air Force B-17s hit
convoys NW of Bizerte, Tunisia while B-26s attack motor vessels between Tunisia
and Sicily.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force fighters and medium bombers hit the
Djedeida, Siki Nsir area, and ground forces in the Bedja-Mateur areas.
HQ 14th Fighter Group and it's 49th Fighter Squadron with P-38s are pulled
out of combat and transferred from Berteaux, Algeria to Mediuna, French
Morocco.
HQ 81st Fighter Group transfers from Le Kouif Airfield, Algeria to Thelepte,
Tunisia.
SATURDAY, 6 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, 35 planes strafe and bomb installations in the Mareth Line as
Rommel's expected attack in Tunisia takes place and is defeated. Four thrusts
toward Medenine are repulsed by the British, and the enemy retreats after
nightfall, having lost about 50 tanks.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Weather cancels Northwest African Strategic Air Force bomber missions.
In Tunisia, fighters fly reconnaissance along the battle line.
HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) transfers from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to
Canrobert, Algeria.
HQ 301st Bombardment Group (Heavy) transfers from Ain M'lila, Algeria to
St-Donat, Algeria.
The 92d and 93d Fighter Squadrons, 81st Fighter Group with P-39s transfer
from Le Kouif Airfield, Algeria to Thelepte, Tunisia.
SUNDAY, 7 MARCH 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25s hit shipping between Tunisia and Sicily while
B-17s bomb a convoy in the Gulf of Tunis and shipping and the marshalling yard
at Souase, Tunisia.
The 352d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy) with B-17s transfers from Ain M'lila,
Algeria to St-Donat, Algeria.
The 445th, 446th, 447th and 448th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 321st
Bombardment Group (Medium) with B-25's arrive at Oujda, French Morocco from the
U.S.
MONDAY, 8 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
The 314th Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group with P-40s transfers from El
Kabrit, Egypt to Libya and is attached to the 57th Fighter Group to gain
experience.
The 434th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium)
with B-25's transfers from Castel Benito, Libya to El Assa, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17s
and B-25s attack shipping between Tunisia and Sicily, claiming the destruction
or the heavy damage of several motor vessels.
In Tunisia, other B-17s hit shipping and marshalling yard at Sousse. P-38s
escort the bomb missions. Fighters of the Northwest African Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) fly several reconnaissance and patrol missions along the Tunisian
British First Army battlefront while Western Desert Air Force P-40s and
Spitfires hit the rear of columns attacking Medenine from the west.
The 2d, 4th and 5th Fighter Squadrons, 52d Fighter Group with Spitfire Mk Vs
transfer from Telergma, Algeria to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
The 32d, 353d and 419th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 301st Bombardment
Group (Heavy) with B-17's transfer from Ain M'lila, Algeria to St-Donat,
Algeria.
TUESDAY, 9 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
HQ 57th Fighter Group and it's 65th Fighter Squadron with P-40's transfer
from Libya to Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Bad weather cancels Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) operations
and restricts other commands to reconnaissance, patrol, and transport missions.
HQ 52d Fighter Group transfers from Telergma, Algeria to Youks-les-Bains,
Algeria.
The 1st Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy), 25th Antisubmarine Wing with B-24's,
transfers from St. Eval, England to Port Lyautey, French Morocco.
The 347th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group with P-39s transfers from La
Senia, Algeria to Orleansville, Algeria.
WEDNESDAY, 10 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Egypt, the flight echelon of the 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) begins
arriving.
The 64th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group with P-40's transfers from
Libya to Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb El Aouins Airfield and La Marsa landing ground,
destroying several parked airplanes and hit the town of Gafsa. Fighters escort
the B-17's and carry out numerous reconnaissance missions.
The 93d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group with P-39s transfers from
Berteaux, Algeria to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
THURSDAY, 11 MARCH 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-26s attack a convoy between Tunisia and Sicily.
B-25s in the area carry out no attacks on vessels.
In Tunisia, fighters escort medium bombers and attack guns, vehicles. and
tanks in the Sedjenane, Jefna, and Bedja areas.
HQ 31st Fighter Group and it's 307th, 308th and 309th Fighter Squadrons with
Spitfire Mk V's transfer from Kalaa Djerda, Tunisia to Thelepte, Tunisia.
The 2d Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy), 25th Antisubmarine Wing with B-24's
transfers from St. Eval, England to Port Lyautey, French Morocco.
FRIDAY, 12 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
HQ 79th Fighter Group transfers from Libya to Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-17s bomb the docks and marshalling yards at Sousse. B-26s
pound supply dumps and score near misses on bridges at Enfidaville, while B-25s
bomb shipping between Tunisia and Sicily. Fighters escort the bombers and carry
out attacks on ground targets, destroying several vehicles in the Pichon area
and south of Pont-du-Fahs. RAF Wellingtons bomb the Tunis docks during the
night of 12/13 March.
The 321st Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 445th, 446th, 447th and 448th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-25's transfer from Oujda, French Morocco
to Ain M'lila, Algeria. The squadrons will enter combat on next Monday and
Tuesday.
SATURDAY, 13 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Lieutenant General Lewis H. Brereton, Commanding General Ninth Air Force,
directs that Headquarters Desert Air Task Force be redesignated Advance
Headquarters, Ninth Air Force, and that the USAAF tactical units with the HQ be
designated Desert Air Task Force (DATF).
In Italy, B-24s bomb Naples harbor through heavy clouds.
In Tunisia, 34 P-40s of the 57th Fighter Group fly top cover and fighter
sweep, and engage about 25 Bf 109 fighters in combat; we claim 4 destroyed; we
lose 4 including 3 pilots.
The 7th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62d Troop Carrier Group, based at Nouvion,
Algeria with C-47's, begins operating from bases in Egypt and Palestine.
The 85th, 86th and 87th Fighter Squadrons, 79th Fighter Group with P-40's
transfer from Landing Ground 150, Libya to Causeway Landing Ground in Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
B-25s are sent against shipping NE of Bizerte, Tunisia but fail to locate
the target. Fighters hit positions and movement in the Mareth Line area, and
fly patrols and reconnaissance.
HQ XII Air Support Command transfers from Algeria to Tunisia.
The 154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with P-39's and
P-51's transfers from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Thelepte, Algeria. The 154th
is an ex-Arkansas National Guard outfit.
SUNDAY, 14 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy during the night of 13/14 Mar, RAF Liberators under the operational
control of the IX Bomber Command hit the harbor at Naples.
In Tunisia during the day, fighters fly cover and sweep over the battle
area. The 85th and 87th Fighter Squadrons of the 79th Fighter Group fly their
first combat mission when 12 P-40's escort 11 B-25's on a mission against the
Mareth Line.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Weather cancels all missions except Northwest African Tactical Air Force
fighter reconnaissance in the Enfidaville-Sfax area and between Tunisia and
Sicily.
MONDAY, 15 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25s, escorted by P-40's of 79th Fighter Group (the group's
first operation in the theater), bomb Zarat. Fighters also fly strafing and
bombing raids against ground targets.
The 81st and 82d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group
(Medium) with B-25's transfer from Berteaux, Algeria to Canrobert, Algeria.
These Ninth Air Force units are TDY to the Northwest African Air Force.
The 316th Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group with P-40's transfers from
El Kabrit, Egypt to Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26s, with
fighter escort, attack the landing pound at Mezzouna. B-25's follow with an
attack on the same target. Fighters of the Northwest African Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) fly tactical reconnaissance over the battle area as the units of the US
II Corps prepare to attack east from the Gafsa area.
In the Mediterranean, B-17s, with fighter escort, hit shipping off Northern
Tunisia.
TUESDAY, 16 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40s fly fighter-bomber operations against enemy positions as
British ground forces prepare to conduct limited attacks as a preliminary to
the main assault against the Mareth Line.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-17s attack shipping between Tunisia and Sicily,
leaving 2 small vessels aflame. Weather prevents completion of other bomber
operations.
In Tunisia, fighters fly reconnaissance and patrols but bad weather hides
enemy ground activity.
The 346th and 348th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 99th Bombardment Group
(Heavy) with B-17's arrive at Navarin, Algeria from the U.S. The squadrons
will fly their first mission on 31 March.
WEDNESDAY, 17 MARCH 1943 (ST. PATRICK'S DAY)
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40s fly scramble and fighter-bomber operations as British
ground forces continue local operations in preparation for the assault on the
Mareth Line.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Weather cancels Northwest African Strategic Air Force bomber (NASAF)
operations.
Tactical fighters and light bombers fly numerous armed reconnaissance
missions and sweeps over Sedjenane, Cap Serrat, and the Sidi Nsir area and
attack ground forces east of Gafsa in preparation for the allied assault. The
US II Corps opens an offensive to the east from the Gafsa area after air and
artillery preparation.
Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) aircraft continue coastal and
sea patrols.
The 37th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group with P-38's transfers from La
Senia, Algeria to Mediouna, French Morocco.
THURSDAY, 18 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's, escorted by P-40's, bomb the harbor at Naples.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Weather cancels operations of the Northwest African Strategic Air Force
(NASAF) bombers.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters fly sweeps
and reconnaissance over the Sidi Nsir-Sedjenane-Medjez el Bab areas and attack
a railway station, other buildings, railroad sidings, and motor transport at
Temara.
FRIDAY, 19 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Colonel Uzal G. Ent assumes command of the IX Bomber Command, replacing
Colonel Hugo P Rush. Ent AFB, Colorado was named for Col. Ent.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Landing grounds are non-operational due to continued bad weather. Northwest
African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) and Northwest African Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) cancel missions. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) aircraft
fly routine patrols.
The Northwest African Troop Carrier Command (Provisional), consisting of the
5lst Troop Carrier Wing and its subordinate units, which are transferred from
the XII Air Force Service Command, is activated. Colonel Ray A. Dunn is acting
Commanding Officer.
SATURDAY, 20 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's bomb the Mareth area. AA is intense and all medium
bombers suffer hits. P-40's escort bombers and carry out fighter-bomber and
top cover operations as British ground troops open the assault on positions
with infantry and artillery. The British 30 Corps gains a bridgehead across
the Oued Zigzaou.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Tactical Bomber Force (NATBF) is formed under the
Northwest African Tactical Air Force with a small combined HQ which has under
it the 47th Bombardment Group (Light), the RAF 326 Wing, and air echelons of 2
squadrons of the 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) which are attached for
operational control. B-26's and B-25's launch consecutive attacks against the
landing ground at Djebel Tebaga. Fighters fly escort and carry out numerous
reconnaissance missions as the British Eighth Army opens an assault on the
Mareth Line.
In the Mediterranean, B-25's bomb shipping between Tunisia and Sicily.
HQ XII Fighter Command transfers from La Senia, Algeria to Algiers, Algeria.
A detachment of the 59th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group based at
Berteaux, Algeria with P-40's begins operating from Thelepte, Tunisia.
SUNDAY, 21 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy during the night of 20/21 March, B-24's attack the harbor and
surrounding area of Naples, hitting a vessel, the city area, and in the
vicinity of the railroad yards.
In Tunisia, B-25's bomb targets, including a highway, in the Gabes area.
They are escorted by almost 100 P-40's.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia during the night of 20/21 March, RAF Wellingtons bomb the docks
at Ferryville. On the morning of 21 Mar, B-17's, with P-38 escort, attack the
landing grounds at Djebel Tebaga, and Mezzouna. Elements of the US 1st Armored
Division push toward Maknassy, placing it under artillery fire in preparation
for the assault on the town.
The 35th Troop Carrier Squadron, 64th Troop Carrier Group which has been
operating it's C-47's from Telergma, Algeria returns to its base at Blida,
Algeria.
MONDAY, 22 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy during the night of 21/22 Mar, RAF Liberators, under operational
control of the IX Bomber Command, bomb Naples.
In Tunisia, B-25's hit the Gabes area, bombing a road junction, motor
transport, and troop concentrations. P-40's fly 5 escort missions during the
day. British ground forces, after expanding the Oued Zigzaou bridgehead during
21/22 Mar, are severely handicapped by heavy rain. The enemy counter-attacks
and forces 50 Division to give ground.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Atlantic, German submarine U-524, is sunk north of the Canary Islands
at 3O-15N 18-13W, by aircraft of 1st Antisubmarine Squadron (Heavy).
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons hit
the landing ground near Sfax during the night of 21/22 March. Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters fly numerous reconnaissance and patrol
missions while A-20's bomb Mezzouna and fighter-bombers hit motor transport and
tanks in the northern Tunisian battle area.
In the Mediterranean, B-26's on a sea sweep attack vessels near Zembra
Island.
In Sicily, B-17's bomb shipping in the harbor at Palermo.
TUESDAY, 23 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's bomb Messina, concentrating on the ferry slip.
In Tunisia, B-25's hit the Mareth area. P-40's fly fighter-bomber operations
and bomber escort over the battle area as the British 50 Division withdraws
from the Oued Zigzaou bridgehead under cover of artillery fire.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia during the night of 22/23 March, RAF Wellingtons hit El Maou
Airfield near Sfax. During the day, B-17's bomb shipping in Bizerte harbor.
Fighters fly reconnaissance and patrol, bomb and strafe trucks, tanks, and
troops near Bir Zallujah, hit tanks and trucks east of Mezzouna and Maknassy,
and east of El Guettar, where the enemy ground forces are making thrusts toward
the town.
WEDNESDAY, 24 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack the ferry installations at Messina. Direct hits are
scored in the target area and adjacent railroad yards and naval oil and storage
tanks are set afire. Just before midnight, RAF Liberators, under operational
control of the IX Bomber Command, blast the docks at Messina.
In Tunisia, B-25's hit Zarat. P-40's fly an escort, armed reconnaissance,
and strafing mission.
The British Eighth Army prepares to assault the west flank of the Mareth
Line.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's hit
shipping and the the dock area at Ferryville. B-26's bomb the La Smala des
Souassi landing ground and B-25's hit the Djebel Tebaga North landing ground.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20's and B-25's hit troop
concentrations near El Guettar (where the US 1st Infantry Division is under
attack) and the landing ground at Djebel Tebaga. Fighters escort bombers and
strafe ground forces along the battleline.
HQ 68th Observation Group and it's 16th and 122d Observation Squadrons
transfer from Oujda, French Morocco to Berrechid, French Morocco. The 16th and
122d, with P-38's, P-39's, P-40's and Spitfires, begin training fighter pilots.
THURSDAY, 25 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's, in the early daylight hours, bomb installations in the
Mareth area. P-40's attack motor transport, tanks, and communications targets
in the battle area. During the night of 25/26 Mar heavy, medium and light
bombers blast forces gathering in the El Hamma area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb the
docks and shipping at Sousse. B-25's hit the Djebel Tebaga landing ground.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters fly numerous patrols,
sweeps, and reconnaissance flights over the battle areas. Northwest African
Tactical Bomber Force (NATBF) bombers hit the Djebel Tebaga Airfield and motor
transport west of Sfax and Sousse during the night of 24/25 March). XII Air
Support Command medium bombers and fighters hit Djebel Tebaga Airfield,
vehicles near Gabes, Mezzouna, Maknassy, and at several other points in the
battle area.
The 416th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 99th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-17's arrives at Navarin, Algeria from the U.S. The squadron will fly it's
first mission on 31 Mar.
FRIDAY, 26 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's attack the Mareth area, dropping over 28.5 tons of bombs
during 2 strikes. P-40's fly fighter-bomber and strafing missions, destroying
or damaging over 50 military transport vehicles, tanks, and gun emplacements.
Intense ground fire downs several US fighters. Following the aerial
bombardment, Allied ground forces renew their assault on the Mareth Line.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's bomb the Grombalia area. Other B-25's and B-17's of the
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) fail to complete missions because
of weather. P-39's destroy several trucks in the Maknassy-Mezzouna area.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and light and medium
bombers bomb a fuel dump at Oudref, roads and a railway near Cekhira, docks at
Sfax, and the airfield at Djebel Tebaga. Fighters strafe vehicles during
armored reconnaissance between Faid and Gabes.
The 347th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 99th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-17's arrives at Navarin, Algeria from the U.S. The squadron will fly it's
first mission on 31 Mar.
SATURDAY, 27 MARCH 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters attack
machinegun installations NE of Maknassy and a train at Mezzouna, and hit Djebel
Naimia. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) fighters on patrol claim
several aircraft shot down. Weather prevents completion of an antishipping
sweep by North African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's.
SUNDAY, 28 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's launch a fighter-bomber attack against El Hamma, which
the enemy has held as an escape corridor through which troops have been
withdrawing during the night of 27/28 Mar.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, weather again prevents completion of Northwest African Strategic
Air Force (NASAF) B-25 shipping strike. Northwest African Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) fighters attack trucks south of Maknassy and near Gabes, hit gun
positions and tanks near Mezzouna, where fierce ground fighting is taking
place, and fly patrols and reconnaissance throughout the battle areas of
Tunisia. Bombers hit roads, railroads, and military transport in the Sousse and
Sfax areas during the night of 28/29 Mar.
HQ 51st Troop Carrier Wing transfers from Algiers, Algeria to La Senia,
Algeria.
HQ 82d Fighter Group and it's 95th and 97th Fighter Squadrons with P-38's
transfer from Telergma, Algeria to Berteaux, Algeria.
MONDAY, 29 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's attack Sfax and El Maou area, scoring hits on several
parked aircraft. P-40's fly escort and fighter-bomber missions as British
ground forces pursue the enemy north through Gabes. The British Eighth Army
completes the occupation of the Mareth Line.
HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 486th, 487th, 488th and 489th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-25's arrive at El Kabrit, Egypt from the
U.S. The group will fly it's first mission on 6 Apr.
The 315th Fighter Squadron, 324th Fighter Group with P-40's arrives at El
Kabrit, Egypt from the U.S.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Weather cancels all Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
operations.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters bomb and
strafe a truck column south of Djebel Chemsi, a troop concentration near
Mezzouna, and vehicles at other points along the Tunisian battlefront.
The 4th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62d Troop Carrier Group with C-47's
transfers from Casablanca, French Morocco to Nouvion, Algeria.
The 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20's transfers from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Canrobert, Algeria.
The 92d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group with P-39's transfers from
Thelepte, Tunisia to Youks-les-Bains, Algeria.
TUESDAY, 30 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, 3 B-24's sent to bomb the Messina ferry slip are unable to
rendezvous because of bad weather; 1 B-24 bombs the Crotone chemical factory,
hitting the center of the factory area, warehouses, and rail facilities. RAF
Liberators sent against the same target return without bombing.
In Tunisia, B-25's hit the landing ground at Sfax, scoring direct hits on 4
aircraft. P-40's fly escort missions. British ground forces make contact with
the enemy's new line along Oued el Akarit.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Weather halts all Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) missions
except fighter reconnaissance.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters bomb the
area northeast of Oued Zarga, attack tanks, trucks, and troops southeast of
Slourhin, at Djebel ben Kheir, at Djebel Chemsi, near El Ayacha and El Avoua,
along the El Guettar-Mahares road, and in the El Agahea area. A-20's bomb the
La Fauconnerie Airfield, hit troops at Djebel Chemsi, and bomb tanks and troops
at Djebel Berda which is being assaulted by the US 9th Infantry Division.
HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 85th and 86th Bombardment
Squadron (Light) with A-20's transfer from Canrobert, Algeria to Thelepte,
Tunisia.
WEDNESDAY, 31 MARCH 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's bomb Sfax Airfield; bombs explode among 6 parked
airplanes. P-40's escort bombers and fly fighter-bomber operations, during
which motor transport along the highway north of Gabes is hit.
The 9th Fighter Wing is inactivated at El Kabrit, Egypt.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of 30/31 Mar, RAF Wellingtons bomb Decimomannu
Airfield. During the day, B-17's hit Villacidro, Monserrato and Decimomannu
Airfields and Cagliari harbor.
In the Mediterranean, B-25's hit shipping off northeastern Tunisia. The B-l7
and B-25 missions are escorted by P-38's.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, and light
and medium bombers attack La Fauconnerie Airfield, hit concentrations on the El
Guettar-Gabes road (enemy positions through which the US II Corps is trying to
break), bomb transport in the Djebel Tabouna area, attack roads in the
Mezzouna-Mahares-Sfax-Sousse areas, hit trucks, halftracks, and tanks south of
Djebel Berda and in the Djebel Berrani area, bomb the Djebel Chemsi Pass,
strafe trucks on the Djebel Hadifa-Sidi Rouda road and in the Ofel- El Guettar
area. Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) aircraft hit the El Maou landing ground.
The 97th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20's transfers from Canrobert, Algeria to Thelepte, Tunisia.
APRIL 1943 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
THURSDAY, 1 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's escort bomber missions. Medium and light bombers hit
parked airplanes and AA batteries at El Maou Airfield at Sfax.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia during the night of 31 Mar/1 Apr, RAF Wellingtons bomb the
Bizerte docks and Karouba Bay seaplane base. During the day, A-20's bomb La
Fauconnerie and El Djem Airfields. Fighters, carrying out reconnaissance
missions over wide areas of Tunisia, attack motor transport, tanks, and guns
in the Sidi Mansour-Djebel Tebaga areas. British medium and light bombers, and
fighters hit gun positions N of Oued el Akarit and hit the Sfax-El Maou
Airfield.
The 17th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 27th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20's transfers from Nouvion, Algeria to Ras El Ma, French Morocco.
The 96th Fighter Squadron, 92d Fighter Group with P-38's transfers from
Telergma, Algeria to Berteaux, Algeria.
FRIDAY, 2 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy during the night of 1/2 Apr, RAF Liberators, under the operational
control of the IX Bomber Command, bomb the ferry terminal at Messina and the
airfield at Crotone. During the day, 2 B-24's on a special mission bomb the
ferry terminals at Messina and Villa San Giovanni; 27 B-24's sent against
Naples find the target totally obscured by clouds; 9 bomb the area through
overcast and 3 bomb Augusta and Crotone.
In Sicily, 24 B-24's sent to attack Palermo abort because of heavy clouds
over the target.
In Tunisia, P-40's fly 9 armored reconnaissance and 6 fighter-bomber and
escort missions.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's and A-20's bomb the airfield at La Fauconnerie.
SATURDAY, 3 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's the bomb Sfax-El Maou area during the night of 2/3 Apr.
P-40's fly fighter-bomber missions N of Gabes.
HQ, 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 434th Bombardment Squadron
(Medium) with B-25's transfer from El Assa, Libya to Medenine, Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Weather cancels Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) bomber
operations.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters strafe
tanks and trucks at Kebira and Jabal Nasir Allah, and claim 14 aircraft downed
in aerial combat over Djebel Berda. B-25's bomb the airfield at Sainte-Marie du
Zit. Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) light bombers hit motor transport and gun
positions N of Oued el Akarit.
HQ, 81st Fighter Group and its 93d Fighter Squadron with P-39's transfer
from Thelepte, Tunisia to Bone, Algeria to patrol the coast of Africa and
protect Allied shipping in the Mediterranean.
SUNDAY, 4 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack Naples, concentrating on the dock area.
In Sicily, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, bomb Palermo.
The 83d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with
B-25's transfers from El Assa, Libya to Medenine, Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, B-25's bomb small shipping at Carloforte on San Pietro Island.
B-17's hit Capodichino Airfield and the marshalling yards at Naples.
In Tunisia, P-38's dive-bomb a beached freighter off Cape Zebib. Other
P-38's escort the bombing raids. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
A-20's hit La Fauconnerie Airfield while B-25's hit El Djem and Sainte-Marie du
Zit airfields. Fighters accompany light and medium bombers on attacks, and
carry out numerous patrols, reconnaissance flights, and fighter sweeps over the
battle areas of Tunisia.
The 16th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 27th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20's transfers from Nouvion, Algeria to Ras el Ma, French Morocco.
The 111th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with A-20's and
P-39's transfers from Oujda, French Morocco to Guercif, French Morocco.
MONDAY, 5 APRIL 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily during the night of 4/5 Apr, Northwest African Strategic Air Force
(NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the Trapani docks and shipping. During the day, B-17's
bomb the airfields at Boccadifalco and Milo.
In Tunisia, B-17's bomb airfields at Sidi Ahmed and Tunis. B-25's hit the
airfield at Bo Rizzo and attack a convoy off Cap Bon. P-38's fly several
fighter sweeps over the Straits of Sicily. One force of fighters claims 16
airplanes destroyed. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20's hit
the Airfield at El Djem and La Fauconnerie. Fighters attack E-boats off
Pont-du-Fahs and vehicles S of Bou Hamran, and fly sweeps, reconnaissance, and
patrol over the battle area in Tunisia. Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) and
Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) aircraft hit motor transport W of
Cekhira, bomb Djebel Zitouna Airfield, and strike shipping in the Straits of
Sicily. During the day Northwest African Air Force (NAAF) aircraft claim
destruction of nearly 50 aircraft in aerial combat. Today starts Operations
FLAX (5-22 Apr) which is designed to destroy, in the air and on the ground,
enemy air transports and escorts employed in ferrying personnel and supplies to
Tunisia.
HQ 325th Fighter Group transfers from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu,
Algeria.
The 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20's transfers from Canrobert, Algeria to Thelepte, Tunisia.
The 91st and 93d Fighter Squadrons, 81st Fighter Group with P-39's transfer
from Thelepte, Tunisia to Bone, Algeria.
TUESDAY, 6 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24's hit the ferry and slips at Messina harbor.
In Italy, RAF Liberators, under IX Bomber Command control, bomb the Naples
area and rail facilities in Messina, Sicily.
In Tunisia, B-25's fly 2 missions against concentrations in the Oued el
Akarit region, scoring hits on buildings, tanks, and numerous vehicles. P-40's
fly escort, fighter sweep, and strafing operations, attacking guns, vehicles
and personnel as the British Eighth Army begin their assault on Oued el Akarit
from which the enemy begins withdrawing during the night.
HQ 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it"s 514th Bombardment Squadron
(Heavy) with B-24's transfer from Soluch, Libya to Bengasi, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, B-17's bomb the docks and ships at Trapani.
In Tunisia during the night of 5/6 April, Wellingtons bomb the dock and
shipping at Tunis. During the day, B-25's and P-38's attack shipping in the
Straits of Sicily. Two forces of B-17's bomb a convoy further W, near Zembra
Island and hit a convoy off Bizerte. B-25's and A-20's attack landing grounds
and airfields at Enfidaville, La Fauconnerie, and El Djem. La Fauconnerie bears
the brunt of the attacks and is well covered. Fighters escort the bombing
raids, fly reconnaissance missions, and attack scattered enemy movement.
HQ 27th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 91st Bombardment Squadron (Light)
with A-20's transfer from Nouvion, Algeria to Ras el Ma, French Morocco.
The 92d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group with P-39's transfers from
Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Maison Blanche, Algeria.
The 154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with P-39's and
P-51's transfers from Thelepte, Tunisia to Sbeitla, Tunisia.
WEDNESDAY, 7 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24's attack Palermo harbor.
In Tunisia, B-25's bomb retreating columns which are being pursued N of Oued
el Akarit by the the British Eighth Army's 30 and 10 Corps. Fighters carry out
bombing and strafing operations the battle area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons attack
Tunis and the Jabal al Jallud Marshalling Yard. Weather cancels all other NASAF
missions except for 2 reconnaissance sorties. All available airplanes of the
XII Air Support Command and Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) hit ground forces
which are retreating in all sectors. Fighters fly sweeps over Medjez el Bab
(claiming 3 fighters downed), a scramble mission NW of Oued Zarga (5 fighters
are claimed destroyed), and over 100 other sorties (no encounters). Highway and
motor transport are bombed between Sfax and Sousse. Light and medium bombers,
and fighter-bombers attack concentrations N of the Oued el Akarit line. Units
of the US II Corps make contact with the British Eighth Army on the Gabes-Gafsa
road.
HQ 31st Fighter Group and it's 307th, 308th and 309th Fighter Squadrons with
Spitfires transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Djilma, Tunisia.
The 318th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group with P-40F's transfers from
Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria. The squadron will fly it's first
combat mission on 17 Apr 43.
THURSDAY, 8 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's fly 29 bomber escort, armed reconnaissance, and
fighter-bomber missions against retreating column along coast N of Gabes.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Weather prevents all Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
operations except minimum weather reconnaissance.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) P-40's and
Spitfires fly sweeps and armed reconnaissance over the Faid Pass-Fondouk el
Aouareb-Kairouan-Ousseltia area as the British X Corps attacks Fondouk. Other
fighters fly widespread reconnaissance and sweeps, attacking motor transport S
of Zaghouan. Western Desert Air Force (WDAF) fighters hit retreating columns in
the Cekhira-Sfax area.
FRIDAY, 9 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's in a fighter-bomber role attack Sfax, as the British
Eighth Army, in pursuit of the retreating enemy, reaches a position a few miles
to the SW of the coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, fighters continue reconnaissance of the N half of Tunisia and
the Straits of Sicily and hit enemy movement and defenses over wide areas
between Sfax and Enfidaville.
HQ 320th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 443d Bombardment Squadron
(Medium) with B-26B's transfer from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria.
The 319th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group with P-40F's transfers from
Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria. The squadron will fly it's first
mission on 17 Apr 43.
SATURDAY, 10 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's bomb the harbor at Naples.
In Sicily, RAF Liberators, under operation control of the IX Bomber Command,
hit Palermo.
In Tunisia, Allied ground forces take Sfax and continue N to La Hencha.
HQ IX Fighter Command is transferred from Egypt to Tripoli, Libya. Personnel
are to be moved from Egypt over a period of several weeks.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia, B-17's hit ships at La Madallena.
In Tunisia during the night of 9/10 Apr, Wellingtons bomb troops and
transport on roads in the area surrounding Enfidaville. The following day,
B-26's follow up the Wellingtons with raids on roads and military
concentrations near Enfidaville. Fighter-bombers also hit ground targets in the
Enfidaville areas. Fighters escort bombers, carry out reconnaissance, and fly
sweeps over the battle area from Medjez el Rah to Sousse.
SUNDAY, 11 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack Naples harbor. AA is intense and fighters attack
B-24's from all sides, knocking 1 down. The B-24's claim destruction of 3
fighters.
In Tunisia, B-25's attack motor transport and concentrations N of Sfax as
Allied ground troops push toward Sousse.
HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 486th and 487th Bombardment
Squadrons (Medium) with B-25C's transfer from El Kabrit, Egypt to Medenine,
Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of 10/11 Apr, Wellingtons bomb airfields at
Decimomannu and Monserrato.
In Sicily, B-17's strike the harbors of Marsala and Trapani.
In Tunisia, P-38's carry out fighter sweeps and reconnaissance flights,
claiming numerous aircraft shot down, including 21 transports destroyed between
Cap Bon and Marsala. B-26's bomb Oudna Airfield, B-25's hit Sainte-Marie du Zit
Airfield, and B-17's strike the harbor of Tunis. Fighter-bombers and light
bombers blast trucks S of the Enfidaville road, trucks E of Kairouan, the
Sousse docks, and numerous other targets in the NE quarter of Tunisia.
MONDAY, 12 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's of the 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) sent to attack
Naples harbor, are prevented by bad weather from bombing the primary target.
About half return without bombing while the others hit Cosenza and Crotone.
Other heavy bombers of the same group, in a subsequent mission, bomb Naples and
the secondary target of Pizzo.
In Sicily, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, are dispatched against Palermo. The primary target is attacked, in
spite of total cloud cover, but most of bomb tonnage is dropped in Messina,
Italy harbor.
In ground action in Tunisia, the British 10 Corps captures Sousse and heads
north.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, B-17's bomb the harbor at Trapani and hit shipping in the Straits
of Sicily.
In Tunisia, B-17's bomb the harbor at Bizerte. B-25's and A-20's bomb
airfields at Oudna and Sainte-Made du Zit. Aircraft of tactical units hit enemy
movements and fly sweep and reconnaissance throughout NE Tunisia following the
attack during the night of 11/12 Apr by British aircraft, mainly in the
Enfidaville, Zaghouan, and Bou Ficha areas.
HQ 31st Fighter Group and it's 307th, 308th and 309th Fighter Squadrons with
Spitfires transfer from Djilma, Tunisia to Le Sers, Tunisia.
HQ 33d Fighter Group and it's 59th and 60th Fighter Squadrons with P- 40's
transfer from Berteaux, Algeria to Ebba Ksour, Tunisia. The 59th has been
operating from Thelepte, Tunisia since 20 Mar.
The 2d, 4th and 5th Fighter Squadrons, 52d Fighter Group with Spitfires
transfer from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Le Sers, Tunisia.
The 154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group with P-39's and
P-51's transfers from Sbeitla, Tunisia to Le Sers, Tunisia.
TUESDAY, 13 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24's are dispatched against the harbor at Catania. Total cloud
cover prevents visual contact with the target. One drops bombs in the target
area, but others jettison their load or return to base without bombing.
In the Mediterranean, P-40's fly convoy escort.
In Tunisia, the British Eight Army's 10 Corps, continuing N reaches an
anti-tank ditch guarding new enemy positions at Enfidaville and unsuccessfully
attempts, on a limited scale, to force a retreat before the line can be
strengthened.
The 488th and 489th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 340th Bombardment Group
(Medium) with B-25's transfer from El Kabrit, Egypt to Medenine, Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, B-17's pound the airfields at Castelvetrano and Milo.
In Sardinia, P-38's bomb a cruiser at La Maddalena and other shipping at
Porto Torres.
In Tunisia, B-25's hit Oudna Airfield. Fighters maintain sweeps and armored
reconnaissance over NE Tunisia and the Straits of Sicily. During the night of
12/13 Mar, British airplanes bomb Megrine landing ground.
HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 84th Bombardment Squadron (Light)
with A-20's transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia.
The 58th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group with P-40's transfers from
Berteaux, Algeria to Ebba Ksour, Tunisia.
WEDNESDAY, 14 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's fly convoy escort, and carry out fighter sweeps over the
battle area as the British Eighth Army's 10 Corps continues to make quick jabs
at positions at Enfidaville. These attempts to force an enemy retreat are
unsuccessful.
The 314th, 315th and 316th Fighter Squadrons, 324th Fighter Group with
P-40's transfer from Libya to Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia, B-17's bomb the Elmas and Monserrato Airfields.
In Tunisia during the night of 13/14 Apr, Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) Hurricanes and Blenheims bomb La Sebala Airfield and attack
transport on the Tunis-Pont-du-Fahs road, and Western Desert Air Force (WDAF)
light and medium bombers hit the Airfields at Sainte-Marie du Zit and Korba.
During the day, B-17's bomb El Aouina Airfield. P-38's escort the heavy bombers
and fly a bombing and strafing mission against a beached vessel SE of Cape
Zebib. A-20's bomb Bordj Toum. Fighter-bombers hit a motor convoy near Grich el
Oued and trucks NE of Dechret Ben Saidane and a battery E of Djedeida. Fighters
fly reconnaissance and sweeps throughout the Tunisian battle area. Northwest
African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) planes maintain sea reconnaissance and
patrols.
HQ 52d Fighter Group transfers from Youks-les-Bains, Algeria to Le Sers,
Tunisia.
The 441st, 442d and 444th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 320th Bombardment
Group (Medium) with B-26B's transfer from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu,
Algeria.
THURSDAY, 15 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, hit Naples and Messina.
In Sicily, B-24's attack Catania and Palermo.
In Tunisia, B-25's hit the airfield and area near a fuel dump at
Sainte-Marie du Zit. P-40's fly reconnaissance and sea patrol.
HQ 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) transfers from Medenine, Tunisia to Sfax,
Tunisia.
The 515th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) with
B-24D's transfers from Soluch, Libya to Bengasi, Libya.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) B-26's on armed
reconnaissance of the Naples area attack a vessel S of Ustica Island.
In Sardinia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb
Decimomannu, Villacidro, and Elmas Airfields during the night of 14/15 Apr.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters attack
tanks and trucks at Oum EL Djema and a concentration near Sidi Ahmed, while
others fly reconnaissance and patrols during the day.
FRIDAY, 16 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24's attack a tanker in Catania harbor, scoring several hits on
the target and in surrounding areas.
In Tunisia, fighters fly sea patrol. The British Eighth Army abandons their
attempts to force a German retreat from Enfidaville by quick jabs and prepares
to launch a full-scale assault during the night of 19/20 Apr.
The 83d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) and
488th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 340th Bombardment Group (Medium), both
with B-25's, transfer from Medenine, Tunisia to Sfax, Tunisia.
The 512th and 513th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 376th Bombardment Group
(Heavy) with B-24's transfer from Soluch, Libya to Bengasi, Libya;.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb the
dock area at Palermo.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters strafe
trucks during the night of 15/16 Apr and during the following day. A-20's and
fighter-bombers bomb Djqobel el Raar and concentrations located in various
wadis in the battle area. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) aircraft
maintain sea reconnaissance and patrols. NASAF B-25's and B-26's hit the Oudns
landing ground while P-38's bomb vessels near Cape Zebib and at Cape el Ahmar.
The 85th and 86th Bombardment Squadrons (Light), 47th Bombardment Group
(Light) with A-20's transfer from Thelepte, Tunisia to Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia.
SATURDAY, 17 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24's (including Liberator Mk II's of the RAF 178 Squadron,
under operational control of the IX Bomber Command) bomb Catania.
In Tunisia, P-40's fly sweeps, sea patrol, and fighter-bomber missions.
HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 486th and 487th Bombardment
Squadrons (Medium) with B-25's and the 434th Bombardment Squadron (Medium),
12th Bombardment Group (Medium) with B-25's transfer from Medenine, Tunisia to
Sfax, Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, B-17's bomb shipping and docks at Palermo.
In Tunisia during the night of 16/17 April, Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) Wellington's bomb the N quay in Bizerte harbor. Shortly after
noon, B-17's bomb shipping and docks at Ferryville. B-25's hit the town area
and marshaling yard at Mateur. Fighters provide escort. Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) Blenheims bomb La Sebala Airfield and A-20's hit
Ksar Tyr and concentrations NE of Grich el Oued. Fighters fly escort and
reconnaissance missions. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) airplanes
fly sea patrol and reconnaissance and attack shipping in the Strait of Sicily.
SUNDAY, 18 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Off Cap Bon, 46 P-40F's of the 57th Fighter Group's three squadrons (64th,
65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons) and the attached 314th Fighter Squadron, 324th
Fighter Group, plus 11 Spitfires of the RAF 92 Squadron flying top cover, take
off to patrol. At approximately 1800 hours, they spot 2 Bf 109's and an armada
of 65 Ju 52/3m transports heading back to Sicily for more supplies. The
transports are in three great vees, covered by 16 Bf 109's and Mc 202's and 5
Bf 110's. The 64th Fighter Squadron and the RAF Spitfires stay high; the
remaining 3 squadrons of P-40's attack the Luftwaffe formation and down 24 Ju
53/3m's and 16 fighters; another 35 Ju 52/3m's crash along the coast.
In Sicily, B-24's attack Catania.
In Tunisia, P-40's fly sweeps, armored reconnaissance, escort, and
fighter-bomber missions. B-25's hit landing grounds.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia during the night of 17/18 Ap, RAF Wellingtons bomb the Tunis
docks and marshaling yard. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
Blenheims hit the La Marsa landing ground while fighter fly reconnaissance and
scramble missions. Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) fighters fly
reconnaissance and patrols, attacking vessels, troop columns, and truck in the
Tunisian coastal area,
In Sicily, over 75 B-17's, escorted by P-38's, attack Boccadifalco Airfield
and the Palermo Marshaling Yard.
In Sardinia, B-25's, escorted by P-38's, hit the Alghero-Fertilia Airfield
and shipping at Porto Torres while Beaufighters attack the Decimomannu
Airfield.
MONDAY, 19 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's hit landing grounds and defensive positions, and P-40's
escort bombers and fly fighter sweeps as the British Eighth Army opens an
assault on Enfidaville positions.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia during the night of 18/19 Apr, Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) Blenheims bomb La Marsa landing ground and roads nearby, and
attack activity on beach at Reyville. During the day, Northwest African
Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb shipping at Tunis. B-25's and A -20's
raid the La Sebala Airfield. Fighter-bombers attack tanks in the battle area.
Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) maintains sea reconnaissance and
patrols as far as Sardinia and sea approaches to Naples. NAAF aircraft claim
over 100 aircraft destroyed during the day.
TUESDAY, 20 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's fly sweeps, reconnaissance, and fighter-bomber missions
as British ground forces take Enfidaville E and push N. Forces on the left are
checked by stubborn enemy resistance at Djebel Garci.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's and B-25's
bomb the landing grounds of Mabtouha, La Marsa, La Sebala, Sidi Ahmed,
Creteville, and near Protville. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
fighters fly escort, carry out reconnaissance, and attack various Tunisian
airfields. The Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) continues sea
patrols and reconnaissance as far-reaching as the approaches to Naples, Italy.
WEDNESDAY, 21 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, bomb Naples.
In Tunisia, P-40's bomb and strafe barges along the coast. The British
Eighth Army meets such fierce opposition at Takrouna that General Montgomery
decides to confine the offensive to the coastal region.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, weather prevents completion of any missions by the Northwest
African Strategic Air Force (NASAF). Northwest African Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) fighters and A-20's hit landing grounds and military traffic on roads,
fly sweeps and armed reconnaissance, and attack ground forces and aircraft in
the Medjez el Bab-Goubellat area where an enemy counterattack by armored and
infantry columns during the night of 20/21 Apr ends in costly failure.
The 346th and 347th Fighter Squadrons, 350th Fighter Group with P-39's swap
bases; the 346th moves from La Senia, Algeria to Orleansville, Algeria; the
347th moves from Orleansville to Le Sers, Tunisia.
THURSDAY, 22 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's fly fighter sweeps over the battle area along the Gulf of
Hammamet.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's bomb 2
landing grounds near Protville. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
fighters and A-20's fly sweeps, reconnaissance, and patrols and attack
positions at Djebel el Ahmera (Longstop Ridge), Sidi Nsir, Djebel el Ajred
(Bald Hill), and other points as the British First Army's 5 Corps launches the
start of the final phase of the assault on Tunis and Bizerte, attacking on a
front N and S of Medjez el Bab.
In Italy, B-26's hit the harbor at Carloforte on San Pietro Island.
FRIDAY, 23 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's attack a landing ground, troops, and artillery N of
Enfidaville. P-40's fly escort, sweeps, and fighter-bomber missions in the
battle area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's and B-26's
bomb vehicles and the railroad at Mateur, the Mateur-Bedja road and Arbatax
harbor in Italy. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, A-20's,
and medium bombers carry out a large number of missions against positions in NE
Tunisia and particularly along the battleline area from near Pont-du-Fahs N to
the Mediterranean as the US II Corps begins a drive on Bizerte in the
Jefna-Sidi Meftah area.
In the Mediterranean, B-17's attack vessels N of Sicily.
SATURDAY, 24 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, RAF Liberators, under operational control of the IX Bomber
Command, bomb Naples.
In Tunisia, P-40's escort bombers, fly sweeps, and carry out fighter-bomber
operations against troops in the battle area N of Enfidaville.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb
the N quay at Bizerte harbor during the night of 23/24 Apr. Bad weather the
following morning cancels NASAF operations. Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) fighters, although hampered by bad weather, attack guns, troops,
and trucks in the battle area from Pont-du-Fahs N to the sea. Fierce ground
fighting continues in the Jefna area.
The 99th Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force with P-40's arrives at
Casablanca, French Morocco from the U.S. The 99th is the first black USAAF unit
to serve overseas.
SUNDAY, 25 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's attack landings grounds, concentrations, and vehicles N
and NW of Enfidaville. P-40's escort bombers and fly fighter sweeps over the
battle area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, weather prevents Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
bombing missions. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters attack
positions and vehicles in the battle area. A-20's and medium bombers bomb the S
landing ground at Soliman, positions NW of Enfidaville, and several other
points in the battle area as Allied ground forces continue their advance on
Bizerte and Tunis.
HQ 2d Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 20th, 49th, and 96th Bombardment
Squadrons (Heavy) with B-17's arrive at Navarin, Algeria from the US.
HQ 319th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 437, and 438th, 439th and 440th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) with B-26B's transfer from Oujda, French Morocco
to Rabat Sale, French Morocco. The group has been undergoing reorganization and
training since Feb 43.
TUESDAY, 27 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's bomb and strafe concentrations N and NW of Enfidaville.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's, with P-38
escort, bomb Villacidro Airfield.
In Tunisia, NASAF B-25's hit shipping W of Zembra Island off Cap Bon.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) planes (fighters, A-20's, and
medium bombers) hit numerous tactical targets in NE Tunisia, including Sidi
Ahmed Airfield and troops, tank, trucks, and gun positions at Massicault, on
the Pont-du-Fahs road, Ksar Tyr, Bir Meherga, and other points along the
battleline.
HQ 2d Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 20th, 49th and 96th Bombardment
Squadrons (Heavy) with B-17's transfer from Navarin, Algeria to
Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria. The Group's fourth squadron, the 429th
Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), arrives at Chateaudun-du-Rhumel from the US
today. The group will fly it's first combat mission tomorrow.
WEDNESDAY, 28 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack the harbor at Naples and the ferry slip at Messina.
Gunners claim 5 fighters destroyed.
In Tunisia, P-40's escort bombers and attack troops in the battle area N of
Enfidaville.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's and P-38's
attack 2 vessels off NE Tunisia in the Straits of Sicily. Other B-25's hit
Tunis shipping while B-26's bomb the landing grounds at Mabouban and Mabtouha.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) aircraft bomb concentrations near
Saint-Cyprien and Ksar Tyr, shipping off Tunis, and numerous positions and
vehicles along the Tunisian battleline and surrounding areas as the US 9th
Infantry Division continues W astride the Sedjenane River and the 1st and 34th
Infantry Divisions continue to face fierce opposition S of Jefna in Sidi Meftah
area.
FRIDAY, 30 APRIL 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack the Messina ferry; bombs hit the target area and
nearby marshalling yard and the city area.
In the Mediterranean, P-4O's fly fighter-bomber missions against shipping
with excellent results, claiming 1 destroyer and 3 other vessels sunk, and 2
destroyers and 2 boats damaged. Fighters claim 5 Bf 109's shotdown; 3 P-40's
are lost.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's and P-38's hit
shipping off Tunisia while B-26's strike shipping near Cap Bon and the
Tunis-Medjez el Bab highway. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
fighters, A-20's, and medium bombers, hit positions near Mateur, Bir Meherga,
and Ksar Tyr, concentrations near Furna, shipping in the Gulf of Tunis and near
Cap Bon, and attack isolated vehicles and troops along the battleline as the US
II Corps makes substantial gains in the Jefna area.
The 97th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 47th Bombardment Group (Light) with
A-20's transfers from Thelepte, Tunisia to Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia.
MAY 1943 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
SATURDAY, 1 MAY 1943
MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's bomb the harbor at Reggio di Calibre.
In Tunisia, P-40's bomb and strafe shipping and shore installations on the
NE coastline.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-26's
and P-38's fly uneventful shipping sweeps.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and A-20's
hit shipping in the Gulf of Tunis and jetties at Sidi Daoud and Kelibia, and
attack positions in the NE Tunisian battle area as Allied ground forces regroup
for the final Tunisian offensive.
During the month of May, the 2d Air Defense Wing transfers from Oran,
Algeria to Maison Blanche, Algeria. The wing will be redesignated the 63d
Fighter Wing in Jul 43.
During the month of May, the 15th Bombardment Squadron (Light), Twelfth Air
Force with A-20's and A-36's transfers from Nouvion, Algeria to Sale, French
Morocco. The squadron flew the first USAAF mission in Europe but is now
relegated to a training role.
The 81st and 82d Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group
(Medium) with B-25's transfer from Canrobert, Algeria to Thibar, Tunisia.
SUNDAY, 2 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's attack shipping off the coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, bad weather restricts the Northwest African Strategic Air Force
(NASAF) to reconnaissance missions. Northwest African Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) fighters hit tank and troop concentrations near Massicault and Tebourba
and fly battle area reconnaissance as the US II Corps occupies Kef en Nsour
while the enemy withdraws toward Bizerte.
MONDAY, 3 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's fly fighter-bomber missions against a bridge, buildings,
and docks in the NE part of the country.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's bomb a
landing ground near Protville and B-17's hit shipping at Bizerte. Northwest
African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters fly numerous reconnaissance
missions over the battle area as Mateur falls to the US 1st Armored Division.
Other fighters escort NASAF bombers. Fighter-bombers bomb the Massicault area.
TUESDAY, 4 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack shipping at Reggio di Calabria and Taranto.
In Tunisia, B-25's hit Zaghouan, including a landing ground and a road
running to Bou Ficha. P-40's fly sea patrol and escort, as well as
fighter-bomber missions in the Zaghouan area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Tunisia, weather restricts Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
operations to a reconnaissance and uneventful shipping sweep; Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters attack gun positions and vehicles near
Zaghouan and Massicault and at other points in the surrounding areas. A-20's
and medium bombers hit Zaghouan in support of the French advance.
WEDNESDAY, 5 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, P-40's strafe and bomb a bridge, vessels, docks, warehouses, and
other buildings at Nabeul harbor.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-l7's bomb a
vessel off Capo San Vito.
In Italy, B-25's and B-26's bomb shipping off Marettimo Island.
In Tunisia, NASAF B-17's hit Tunis harbor and attack ships and docks at La
Goulette. B-25's and B-26's bomb shipping E of Cape Zebib, and hit a landing
ground at Galaat el Andeless and near Protville. Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) fighters and bombers fly 6 missions against strongholds on the NE
and E slopes of Djebel Bou Aoukaz as the British 5 Corps' 1 Division attacks
and gains the position. Fighters hit shipping in Gulf of Tunis and attack
landing grounds and concentrations near Protville. Wellingtons bomb roads at
Bir Meherga.
After regrouping and re-equipping, HQ 14th Fighter Group and it's 37th and
49th Fighter Squadrons with P-38's transfer from Mediouna, French Morocco to
Telergma, Algeria.
THURSDAY, 6 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's bomb Reggio di Calabria harbor, hitting several vessels and
shore installations.
In Tunisia, B-25's attack Furna and Massicault and surrounding areas. P-40's
hit shipping in the Gulf of Tunis and vehicles and buildings along the coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's, escorted by
fighters, bomb Marsala and Trapani.
In Italy, B-25's and B-26's, escorted by fighters, bomb a convoy SW of
Marettimo Island, the port of Favignana, and vessels W of Mitrettimo.
In Tunisia, the British 18 Army Group opens the final assault on Tunis and
Bizerte before dawn. The assault is supported by massed artillery fire and the
most intensive air bombardment yet employed in North Africa. Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) airplanes bomb El Aouina, La Sebala, and Ariana
Airfields during the night of 5/6 May. Today, fighters, A-20's, and medium
bombers fly over 1,400 sorties, attacking Protville and La Sebala Airfields,
trucks on the Massicault-Tunis road, Bordj Frendj, Djebel Achour, traffic SW of
Tunis, troops N of Massicault, the Djedeida- Saint-Cyprien road, the road S of
Djedeida, and numerous other points of strength in extreme NE Tunisia. B-25's
and B-26's bomb 2 beached vessels at Cape Zebib, and ships, a lighthouse, and
parked aircraft near Capes Fortass, Zebib, Cap Serrat and at Protville.
Fighters escort the bombing missions.
The 48th Fighter Squadron, 14th Fighter Group with P-38's transfers from
Mediouna, French Morocco to Telergma, Algeria.
FRIDAY, 7 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's hit the town of Kelibia. P-40's bomb and strafe shipping
in the Gulf of Tunis, severely damaging 3 boats.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily during the night of 6/7 May, Northwest African Strategic Air Force
(NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the docks and shipping at Trapani as a diversion for a
mine-laying mission off Malta.
In Tunisia, NASAF P-40's attack motor vessels, the quay and dock area at
Tunis harbor. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, A-20's,
and medium bombers hit El Aouina Airfield and traffic on the roads around
Tunis, especially the Tunis-Bizerte road, as the Allied forces of Lieutenant
General Harold R. Alexander's 18 Army Group overrun both Tunis and Bizerte,
splitting the enemy's forces.
SATURDAY, 8 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, B-25's hit the landing ground on Pantelleria Island.
In Tunisia, P-40's strafe and bomb shipping in the Cap Bon area and shipping
and shore installations on the Gulf of Tunis. Fighters claim 5 Bf 109's
destroyed.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) P-38's
and Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and A-20's bomb the
landing ground on Pantelleria Island.
In Tunisia, NASAF B-26's and P-4O's attack small vessels off NE Tunisia.
Weather prevents the success of other shipping sweeps, but B-25's hit a road
junction and railroad at Korba and a highway N of Beni Khalled. P-40's bomb
docks near Thonara. NATAF fighters and A-20's bomb shipping between Tunisia and
Sicily, convoys and road network near Soliman and Hammamet, tanks near
Protville, troops, emplacements, trucks, landing grounds, and vessels on and
near Cap Bon and in the area S of Tunis. On the ground, CORPS FRANC D'AFRIQUE
makes an official entry into Bizerte as the British 7 Armored Division pushes N
from Tunis toward the US II Corps zone. The British 6 Armored and Indian 4
Infantry Divisions, pushing SE toward Hammamet, are stopped at Hammam Lif as
the enemy strives to keep their line of retreat to the Cap Bon peninsula open.
The British 5 Corps' l Division and 4 Indian Division push E with the French
19th Corps which meets firm resistance near Zaghouan.
HQ 52d Troop Carrier Wing arrives at Oujda, French Morocco from the US. This
begins the buildup of troop carrier units for the planned airborne assault on
Sicily.
SUNDAY, 9 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack harbor facilities at Messina, scoring hits on the
ferry terminal, roundhouse, 2 ferries, and a ship.
In the Mediterranean, B-25's hit the landing ground on Pantelleria Island.
In Tunisia, over 300 P-40's fly escort and reconnaissance missions, and
strafing and bombing raids on landing grounds vessels, vehicles, bridges, and
gun positions in the areas of Zembra Island, Cap Bon, and Pantelleria Island.
HQ 316th Troop Carrier Group transfers from Fayidk Egypt to Nouvion, Algeria
and begins training for the invasion of Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of 9/10 May, Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Villacidro, Elmas, and Decimomannu Airfields.
In Sicily, B-17's, with P-38 escort, bomb Palermo; B-26's follow immediately
with an attack on the same target.
In Tunisia during the night of 9/10 May, Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) Blenheims, bomb troops and vehicle concentrations in the
Homemade-Nabeul-Menzel Bou Zelfa-Soliman-Tazorhrane areas. Fighter sweeps over
the battle area, provide cover for destroyers, strafe barges, bomb buildings in
the battle area, strafe trucks between Hammamet and Soliman and bomb a landing
ground near Menzel Temime. A-20's and medium bombers also bomb shipping, hit
concentrations in the battle area and in the town of Soliman, and bomb the
airfield on Pantelleria Island. The US II Corps receives the unconditional
surrender of enemy troops in its zone.
HQ 313th Troop Carrier Group and it's 47th and 49th Troop Carrier Squadrons
with C-47's arrive at Oujda, French Morocco from the US and begin training for
the invasion of Sicily.
MONDAY, 10 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean B-25's and P-40's bomb Pantelleria landing ground.
In Tunisia, P-40's bomb the Medi and Cap Bon peninsula. Fighters claim 4
airplanes destroyed.
The 36th and 44th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 316th Troop Carrier Group with
C-47's transfer from Egypt to Nouvion, Algeria and begin training for the
aerial assault on Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily during the night of 9/10 May, Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Palermo and the surrounding area. B-17's follow
up, shortly past noon, with raids on the airfields at Milo and Bo Rizzo.
In Tunisia, Northwest Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, A-20's, and
medium bombers attack Pantelleria harbor in the Mediterranean, Korba bridge,
Menzel Temime landing ground, Kelibia areas, and town of Menzel Bou Zelfa.
Numerous motor transport and troop concentrations on Cap Bon peninsula are
bombed and strafed as British 6 Armored Division drives to Hammamet, cutting
off the peninsula.
HQ 17th Bombardment Group (Medium) transfers from Telergma, Algeria to
Sedrata, Algeria.
The ground echelon of the 414th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force,
arrives at La Senia, Algeria from the U.S. The air echelon is in England
training on Beaufighters.
TUESDAY, 11 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24's strike Catania harbor, severely damaging the harbor area
and several ships.
In Tunisia, B-25's strike the battle area in NE Tunisia. P-40's fly escort
and armed reconnaissance, and carry out bombing and strafing missions in the
Cap Bon area against motor transport, concentrations, roads, docks, and AA
batteries.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's, B-26's, and
B-25's bomb Marsala, hitting the warehouse, docks, railroad yards, seaplane
base, and city area.
In Italy, NASAF P-40's bomb and strafe harbor at San Michele.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters and A-20's
attack vehicles, gun positions and troop concentrations in the
Zaghouan-Sainte-Marie du Zit area and on Cap Bon as the British 4 Division
completes an uneventful sweep around the Cap Bon peninsula, revealing no
important forces there. Resistance in the Zaghouan sector weakens.
The 29th and 48th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 313th Troop Carrier Group, with
C-47's arrive at Oujda, French Morocco from the US.
The 310th, 311th and 312th Bombardment Squadrons (Dive), 86th Bombardment
Group (Dive), with A-36's, arrive at La Senia, Algeria from the US.
WEDNESDAY, 12 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia, B-25's bomb targets in the battle area in NE Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb
the docks at Marsala during the night of 11/12 May; some bombs fall on Mazara
del Vallo and Trapani.
In Tunisia, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters, A- 20's,
and medium bombers fly sweeps and tactical reconnaissance over the battle area
and hit positions S of Bou Ficha which form the last link between the enemy
forces and the sea. By night, enemy resistance in the S is almost ended. Enemy
troops, including Colonel-General Jurgen von Arnim, Commander-in-Chief, Army
Group Africa, are surrendering en masse.
HQ 86th Bombardment Group (Dive) and it's 309th Bombardment Squadron (Dive)
with A-36's arrive at La Senia, Algeria from the US.
The 92d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group, with P-39's, transfers from
Maison Blanche, Algeria to Warnier, Algeria.
The ground echelon of the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force
arrives at La Senia, Algeria from the US. The air echelon is in England
training with Beaufighters.
THURSDAY, 13 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-25's bomb Augusta while RAF Liberators, under operational
control of the IX Bomber Command, attack the Messina ferry terminal.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the
area of the railroad station, marshalling yard and docks in Naples during the
night of 12/13 May.
In Sardinia, B-17's, B-25's and B-26's from 7 bomb groups, escorted by
fighters from 4 fighter groups, bomb Cagliari, hitting shipping, the dock area,
marshaling yard, oil dump, chemical plant, and city area.
In Tunisia, the Tunisian campaign ends with the surrender of Marshall
Giovanni Messe, commander of Axis forces in Africa.
HQ 51st Troop Carrier Wing transfers from La Senia, Algeria to Mascara,
Algeria.
HQ 60th Troop Carrier Group and it's 11th and 28th Troop Carrier Squadrons
with C-47's, transfer from Relizane, Algeria to Thiersville, Algeria.
The 34th, 37th and 432d Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 17th Bombardment
Group (Medium), with B-26's transfer from Telergma, Algeria to Sedrata,
Algeria.
FRIDAY, 14 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
P-40's fly sea patrol and escort for bombers.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of 13/14 May, Wellingtons hit Cagliari. During
the day, B-25's and P-38 escorts bomb the dock and town area of Olbia claiming
destruction of 3 vessels. B-26's hit Porto Ponte Romano.
In Italy, B-17's bomb Civitavecchia.
During the day, P-38's bomb tunnel, barracks, airfield, industry, power
station, and town areas at Sassari and Abbasanta, Italy; and Alghero and Porto
Torres, Sardinia.
HQ 1st Air Defense Wing transfers from Casablanca, French Morocco to Sousse,
Tunisia. The unit will be redesignated the 62d Fighter Wing in Jul 43.
The 10th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group, with C-47's,
transfers from Relizane, Algeria to Thiersville, Algeria.
The 14th Troop Carrier Squadron, 61st Troop Carrier Group, with C-47's,
arrives at Lourmel, Algeria from the US.
The 95th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 17th Bombardment Group (Medium),
with B-26's, transfers from Telergma, Algeria to Sedrata, Algeria.
The 347th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group, with P-39's, transfers from
Le Sers, Tunisia to Djidjelli, Algeria.
SATURDAY, 15 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, P-40's fly sea patrol.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb
Palermo during the night of 14/15 May.
In the Mediterranean, the Northwest Coastal Air Force (NACAF) maintains sea
patrol and reconnaissance over large area from the W coast of Italy over
Sicily, Corsica, Sardinia, and as far N as Marseilles, France.
HQ 31st Fighter Group transfers from Le Sers, Tunisia to Korba, Tunisia.
HQ 61st Troop Carrier Group and it's 15th, 53d and 59th Troop Carrier
Squadrons, with C-47's, arrive at Lourmel, French Morocco from the US.
The 58th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group, with P-40's, transfers from
Ebba Ksour, Tunisia to Menzel Temime, Tunisia.
The 307th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, with Spitfires, transfers
from Le Sers, Tunisia to Korba, Tunisia.
The 309th, 310th and 312th Bombardment Squadrons (Dive), 86th Bombardment
Group (Dive), with A-36's, transfer from La Senia, Algeria to Mediouna, French
Morocco.
SUNDAY, 16 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
P-40's escort shipping off the Mediterranean coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb
Trapani during the night of 15/16 May.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) and Northwest African Coastal
Air Force (NACAF) planes fly sea patrol, reconnaissance, and convoy escort.
The 51st Troop Carrier Squadron (C-47's), 62d Troop Carrier Group, transfers
from Nouvion, Algeria to Matemore, Algeria.
HQ 350th Fighter Group transfers from Oran, Algeria to Maison Blanche,
Algeria. It's 345th Fighter Squadron (P-39's) transfers from La Senia, Algeria
to Maison Blanche, Algeria.
MONDAY, 17 MAY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the
Lido di Roma seaplane base and drop leaflets over Rome.
The 8th Troop Carrier Squadron (C-47's), 62d Troop Carrier Group, transfers
from Nouvion, Algeria to Matemore, Algeria.
The 309th Fighter Squadron Spitfires), 31st Fighter Group, transfers with
Spitfires from Le Sers, Tunisia to Korba, Tunisia.
TUESDAY, 18 MAY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of l7/l8 May, Wellingtons bomb the
Alghero-Sassari area.
In the Mediterranean during the day, the Northwest African Air Force (NAAF)
begins a strong air offensive against Pantelleria Island in conjunction with a
naval blockade. Over 80 B-25's and B-26's, escorted by P-38's, blast the
island, hitting Porto di Pantelleria and Marghana Airfield.
In Sicily, B-17's, with fighter escort, bomb Trapani.
The 4th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62d Troop Carrier Group, transfers with
C-47's from Nouvion, Algeria to Matemore, Algeria.
WEDNESDAY, 19 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Tunisia after 2 days of sand storms, aircraft are again airborne. P-40's
fly escort for ships in area E of Kelibia off Cap Bon peninsula.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia, B-25's hit Milis and Villacidro Airfields while B-26's bomb
Monserrato and Elmas Airfields, the outskirts of Quarto Sant'Elena, and
Cagliari harbor.
In Sicily, B-17's bomb Milo Airfield at Trapani.
The 7th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62d Troop Carrier Group which has been
operating from bases in Egypt and Palestine with C-47's, returns to Nouvion,
Algeria.
The 154th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group, transfers with
A-20's and P-38's from Le Sers, Tunisia to Korba, Tunisia.
The 317th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group, transfers with P-40's from
Tafaraoui, Algeria to Montesquieu, Algeria and flies it's first combat mission.
THURSDAY, 20 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, P-40's escort ships and fly sea patrol off Cap Bon and
in the Kelibia area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of l9/2O May, Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Villacidro and Decimomannu Airfields. During the
day, P-38's bomb Milis Airfield and targets of opportunity at Bonorva while
B-25's bomb Villacidro, Alghero, and Decimomannu Airfields
In Italy, P-38's bomb the docks on the Gulf of Aranci, a railroad bridge NE
of Perfugas, the Macomer rail junction, and targets of opportunity at Sassari,
Bonnanaro, and Chilivani while B-17's strike Grosseto Airfield.
In the Mediterranean, P-38's and P-40's strafe and bomb Pantelleria Island.
HQ 33d Fighter Group and it's 59th Fighter Squadron transfer with P-40's
from Ebba Ksour, Tunisia to Menzel Temime, Tunisia.
The 2d, 4th and 5th Fighter Squadrons, 52d Fighter Group transfer with
Spitfires from Le Sers, Tunisia to La Sebala, Tunisia.
The 12th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group transfers with
C-47's from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Relizane, Algeria.
The 308th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group transfers with Spitfires from
Le Sers, Tunisia to Korba, Tunisia.
FRIDAY, 21 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy during the night of 2O/2l May, RAF Liberators, under operational
control of IX Bomber Command, bomb Messina and Reggio di Calabria. During the
day, B-24's hit Vila San Giovanni and Reggio di Calabria; gunners claim 4
fighters destroyed.
In the Mediterranean, P-40's fly sea patrol off the NE Tunisian coast.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of 20/21 May, Wellingtons hit Villacidro and
Decimomannu Airfields and targets of opportunity. During the day, B-25's and
B-26's bomb the same airfields.
In the Mediterranean, P-40's attack gun positions and targets of opportunity
on Pantelleria Island.
In Sicily, B-17's hit hangars, repair shops, dispersal points, and a gun
battery at Castelvetrano.
HQ 52d Fighter Group transfers from Le Sers, Tunisia to La Sebala, Tunisia.
HQ 314th Troop Carrier Group and it's 32d, 50th and 61st Troop Carrier
Squadrons with C-47's arrive at Berguent, French Morocco from the US.
The 7th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62d Troop Carrier Group transfers with
C-47's from Nouvion, Algeria to Matemore, Algeria.
SATURDAY, 22 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, P-40's fly sea patrol off NE Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily, as a diversion for a convoy passing off Sicily during the night
of 21/22 May, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons fly
intrusion missions dropping bombs on Castelvetrano, Sciacca, Milo, and Bo Rizzo
Airfields.
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters
fly convoy escort.
The 60th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group transfers with P-40's from Ebba
Ksour, Tunisia to Menzel Termime, Tunisia.
The 93d Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group transfers with P-39's from
Bone, Algeria to Monastir, Tunisia.
The 346th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group transfers with P-39's from
Orleansville, Algeria to Maison Blanche, Algeria.
SUNDAY, 23 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, P-40's fly convoy escort off Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-25's
and B-26's bomb the docks and airfield on Pantelleria Island and P-40's attack
gun positions on the island.
In Italy, P-38's attack the zinc works at Iglesias and Carloforte harbor on
San Pietro Island.
The 91st Fighter Squadron, 81st Fighter Group transfers with P-39's from
Bone, Algeria to Sfax, Tunisia.
MONDAY, 24 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's hit the Villa San Giovanni ferry slip and railroad yards,
and ferry terminal and a nearby tanker at Reggio di Calabria.
The 45th Troop Carrier Squadron, 316th Troop Carrier Group transfers with
C-47's from Libya to Nouvion, Algeria.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean during the night of 23/24 May, Northwest African
Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the harbor and airfield at
Pantelleria Island. During the day, NASAF and Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) fighters follow with more attacks on the airfield.
In Sardinia, P-40's, P-38's, B-25's, B-26's and B-17's, bomb targets
including Carloforte harbor, factories, hangars, and oil dump at Alghero and
the seaplane base at Porto Conte, the railroad bridge at Arbatax, the area near
Macomer, the town of Iglesias,the harbor at La Maddalena Island, harbor,
warehouses, and dump at Terranova, and the airfield at Olbia.
TUESDAY, 25 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-24's attack the Messina, Italy ferry docks and railroad yards.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of 24/25 May, Wellingtons bomb the docks and
marshalling yard at Olbia. Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
fighters, medium and heavy bombers bomb Portoscuso, Porto Empedocle,
Boccadifalco Airfield, Licata harbor, and Milo Airfield.
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) and NASAF
P-40's and B-25's hit the airfield, shipping, and military concentrations on
Pantelleria Island.
In Italy, NASAF fighter, medium and heavy bombers bomb Terranova, a tunnel
near Macomer, and Messina.
WEDNESDAY, 26 MAY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) medium and heavy
bombers hit the airfields at Ponte Olivo, Biscari, and Comiso. P-38's hit Porto
Ponte Romano shipping, and Villacidro Airfield.
In the Mediterranean, NASAF P-40's attack gun emplacements, trucks, and
troops on the SE coast of Pantelleria Island. Northwest African Tactical Air
Force (NATAF) P-40's also bomb Pantelleria.
In Italy, NASAF P-38's hit the Tirso power dam and the Golfo Aranci harbor.
HQ 81st Fighter Group transfers from Algeria to Monastir, Tunisia.
THURSDAY, 27 MAY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) P-40's
bomb the harbor defenses on Pantelleria Island and Northwest African Tactical
Air Force (NATAF) P-40's attack targets on the S coast of Pantelleria.
In Sardinia, NASAF B-25's and B-26's hit Villacidro and Decimomannu
Airfields.
The 111th Observation Squadron, 68th Observation Group transfers with A-20's
from Guercif, French Morocco to Nouvion, Algeria.
FRIDAY, 28 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy during the night of 27/28 May, RAF Liberators, under operational
control of the IX Bomber Command, bomb Augusta. During the day, B-24's of 2
groups hit Foggia Airfield and the surrounding area.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sardinia during the night of 27/28 May, Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Villacidro, Decimomannu, and Elmas Airfields.
In the Mediterranean, Pantelleria Island is hit by NASAF P-40's and
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) A-20's.
In Italy, NASAF B-17's bomb the oil refinery, marshalling yard, harbor, and
shipbuilding yards at Leghorn.
In Sicily, NASAF medium bombers attack the airfields of Sciacca,
Castelvetrano, Milo, and Bo Rizzo.
The 36th, 44th and 45th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 316th Troop Carrier Group
transfers with C-47's from Nouvion, Algeria to Guercif, French Morocco to train
for the upcoming airborne invasion of Sicily.
SATURDAY, 29 MAY 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Sicily during the night of 28/29 May, Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the town areas, docks, and airfield at
Castelvetrano, Bo Rizzo, Trapani, and Marsala.
In Sardinia, NASAF P-38's bomb Porto Ponte Romano.
In the Mediterranean, P-40's, P-38's, and B-26's of NASAF and Northwest
African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) attack gun positions, a radar station, and
town area on Pantelleria Island.
HQ 316th Troop Carrier Group transfers from Nouvion, Algeria to Guercif,
French Morocco.
The 34th Troop Carrier Squadron, 315th Troop Carrier Group, based at
Aldermaston, England, begins operating with C-47's from Blida, Algeria.
The 62d Troop Carrier Squadron, 314th Troop Carrier Group arrives at
Berguent, French Morocco from the US with C-47's.
SUNDAY, 30 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's hit Foggia Airfield, damaging buildings and hangars, and
destroying several aircraft.
In the Mediterranean, B-25's attack concentrations on the NE slope of
Pantelleria Island.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean during the night of 29/30 May, Northwest African
Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Pantelleria Island. The following
morning medium bombers and fighters also hit the island. Northwest African
Tactical Air Force (NATAF) fighters hit Pantelleria Island.
In Italy, P-38's bomb the Chilivani railway station and marshalling yard,
hit port and railroad at Aranci. B-17's bomb the Pomigliano aircraft factory
and landing ground and Capodichino Airfield and marshalling yard.
In Sardinia, P-38's strafe targets of opportunity.
The 43d Troop Carrier Squadron, 315th Troop Carrier Group, based at
Aldermaston, England, begins operating with C-47's from Blida, Algeria.
MONDAY, 31 MAY 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers, including Liberators of No.
178 Squadron under operational control of the IX Bomber Command, bomb oil
stores, harbor, and seaplane base at Augusta.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) B-17's bomb the
airfield and marshalling yard at Foggia.
In the Mediterranean, NASAF medium bombers and fighters hit defended
positions on Pantelleria Island. Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
P-40's also hit positions on the island.
In Sardinia, P-38's bomb Cagliari, a factory at Guspini, and a power station
at Santa Caterina.
JUNE 1943 - MEDITERRANEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (MTO)
TUESDAY, 1 JUNE 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, an attack by Wellingtons against Pantelleria Island
during the night of 31 May/l Jun is followed by Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) P-38's and B-17's while Northwest Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
P-40's attack gun positions on the island during the day.
In Italy, NASAF P-40's strafe seaplane base on Stagnone Island and P-38's
bomb the railroad near Balesrate.
In Sardinia, P-38's, B-26's, and B-25's, bomb Porto Torres harbor, Porto
Ponte Romano and Olbia harbor.
HQ 47th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 84th, 85th, 86th and 97th
Bombardment Squadrons (Light) transfer from Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia to Soliman,
Tunisia with A-20's.
HQ 319th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 437th, 438th, 439th and 440th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfer from Rabat Sale, French Morocco to
Sedrata, Algeria with B-26's.
HQ 321st Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 445th, 446th, 447th and 448th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfers from Ain M'lila, Algeria to
Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia with B-25's.
During Jun 43, the 14th and 53d Troop Carrier Squadrons, 61st Troop Carrier
Group, transfer from Lourmel, Algeria to Kairouan, Tunisia with C-47's.
WEDNESDAY, 2 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
HQ 324th Fighter Group and it's 315th and 316th Fighter Squadrons with
P-40's transfer from an unknown location in Tunisia to Kairouan, Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 1/2 Jun, Wellingtons of Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) hit Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean and drop pamphlets on
Naples, Italy. Fighters and medium bombers hit Pantelleria during the following
morning and afternoon. P-38's attack the airfield at Milo, Sicily while P-40's
strafe targets of opportunity in Sardinia.
HQ 12th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 81st, 82d and 434th Bombardment
Squadrons (Medium) with B-25's and HQ 340th Bombardment Group (Medium) transfer
from Sfax, Tunisia to Hergla, Tunisia.
THURSDAY, 3 JUNE 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Fighters, light and medium bombers of the Northwest African Strategic Air
Force (NASAF) and Northwest Tactical Air Force NATAF) attack defended positions
on Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean following a raid on the town area
and docks by Wellingtons during the night of 2/3 Jun.
HQ 14th Fighter Group and it's 48th and 49th Fighter Squadrons with P-38's
transfer from Telergma, Algeria to El Bathan, Tunisia.
HQ 86th Bombardment Group (Dive) and it's 309th Bombardment Squadron (Dive)
transfer with A-36's from La Senia, Algeria to Marnia, French Morocco.
HQ 325th Fighter Group and it's 317th and 318th Fighter Squadrons transfer
with P-40's from Montesquieu, Algeria to Souk-el-Khemis, Tunisia.
The 83d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 12th Bombardment Group (Medium)
transfers with B-25's from Sfax, Tunisia to Hergla, Tunisia.
The 154th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th Reconnaissance Group
transfers with P-38/F-5s from Korba, Tunisia to Nouvion, Algeria.
The 486th, 487th, 488th and 489th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 340th
Bombardment Group (Medium) transfer with B-25's from Sfax, Tunisia to Hergla,
Tunisia.
FRIDAY, 4 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack Grottaglie Airfield, leaving hangars and other
building in flames. B-24 gunners claim 3 fighters shot down.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 3/4 Jun, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
Wellingtons bomb Syracuse, Sicily; Catanzaro, Italy; and Pantelleria Island in
the Mediterranean, which is also hit on the following day by fighters, light,
medium, and heavy bombers, of NASAF and the Northwest Tactical Air Force
(NATAF).
HQ 27th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 17th and 91st Bombardment
Squadrons (Light) transfer with A-36's from Ras el Ma, French Morocco to Korba,
Tunisia.
The 319th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group transfers with P- 40's from
Montesquieu, Algeria to Souk-el-Khemis, Tunisia.
The 346th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group based at Maison Blanche,
Algeria begins operating it's P-39's from Monastir, Tunisia.
SATURDAY, 5 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
During the early morning, Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers, under
operational control of the IX Bomber Command, attack the harbor at Catania,
Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 4/5 Jun, Wellingtons hit docks and town area of
Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean. On 5 Jun, B-25's and P-38's extend the
attack on the island, hitting mainly gun positions. B-17's hit the harbor and
shipping at La Spezia, Italy.
In Sardinia, B-26's bomb Porto Ponte Romano while P-38's hit airfields at
Monserrato and Capoterra.
"A" Flight of the 15th Photographic Squadron (Heavy), 3d Photographic
Reconnaissance and Mapping Group transfers with B-17's and F-5's from Algiers,
Algeria to Le Kroub, Algeria. "B" and "C" Flights of the squadron are still in
the US.
SUNDAY, 6 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's strike the harbor areas of Villa San Giovanni and Reggio di
Calabria, and ferry slips and railroad yards at Messina. B-24 gunners claim 8
fighters destroyed. B-25's of 2 groups hit Pantelleria Island in the
Mediterranean.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In the Mediterranean, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
Wellingtons hit the town and docks of Pantelleria Island during the night of
5/6 Jun. The following afternoon, Spitfires, P-40's, P-38's, B-26's, A-20's,
A-36's, and B-25's of the NASAF and Northwest Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
continue pounding the island. The Allied air bombardment increases and is
concentrated on coastal batteries and other gun emplacements as the second
phase of air offensive against Pantelleria Island starts.
HQ 310th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 379th, 380th, 381st and 428th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfer with B-25's from Berteaux, Algeria to
Dar el Koudia, Tunisia.
MONDAY, 7 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-25's bomb gun emplacements at the airfield on Pantelleria Island in the
Mediterranean.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Following a night raid by Wellingtons on Pantelleria Island in the
Mediterranean, heavy, medium and light bombers, and fighters of the Northwest
African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) and Northwest Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
pound the island throughout the afternoon.
The 99th Fighter Squadron, XII Air Support Command attached to the 33d
Fighter Group transfers with P-40's from Oued N'ja, French Morocco to
Fardjouna, Tunisia.
TUESDAY, 8 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers bomb the Messina, Italy ferry terminal.
B-25's of 2 groups hit Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean, directing their
major effort at gun emplacements.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons pound the town and
docks on Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean during the night of 7/8 Jun.
The air offensive against the island increases during the following day as
fighters, light, medium and heavy bombers of the NASAF and Northwest Tactical
Air Force (NATAF) continue to bomb throughout the day. Naval forces bombard the
harbor and shore batteries. Surrender requests, dropped by airplane, bring no
response.
In Sardinia, P-38's attack barracks N of Segariu and the airfield at
Villacidro.
HQ 47th Bombardment Wing (Medium) transfers from El Guerrah, Algeria to
Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia.
The 16th Bombardment Squadron (Light), 27th Bombardment Group (Light)
transfers with A-36's from Ras el Ma, French Morocco to Korba, Tunisia.
WEDNESDAY, 9 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, B-24's bomb the landing ground at Gerbini and the airfield at
Catania. B-25's hit Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean. Fighters escort
bombers and fly patrols and fighter sweeps.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Fighters, and medium and heavy bombers of the Northwest African Strategic
Air Force (NASAF) continue pounding Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean in
predawn hours and during the afternoon.
THURSDAY, 10 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-25's, escorted by fighters, bomb Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean.
The escorting fighters dive-bomb targets on the island. Later, Royal Air Force
(RAF) heavy bombers attack Reggio di Calabria Airfield, Italy.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Following attacks during the night of 9/10 Jun by fighter-bombers, Northwest
African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) and Northwest Tactical Air Force (NATAF)
aircraft (fighters, and light, medium and heavy bombers) maintain all-day
attacks on Pantelleria Island; over 1,000 sorties are flown.
The 60th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group transfers with P-40's from
Menzel Temime, Tunisia to Sousse, Tunisia.
FRIDAY, 11 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-25's attack islands of Pantelleria in the Mediterranean and Lampedusa
Island, Italy. Fighters escort the medium bombers to Pantelleria Island and
fly cover during their bomb runs. After the British 1 Division is landed
unopposed, Pantelleria surrenders unconditionally.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
An attack during the night of 10/11 Jun on Pantelleria Island in the
Mediterranean by Wellingtons is followed by morning and afternoon attacks by
fighters and bombers of the Northwest African Air Force (NAAF), in conjunction
with naval bombardment of the island.
HQ 86th Bombardment Group (Light) and it's 309th, 310th and 311th
Bombardment Squadrons (Light) transfer with A-36's from French Morocco to
Tafaraoui, Algeria.
The 414th Night Fighter Squadron, 2d Air Defense Wing transfers from La
Senia, Algeria to Rerhaia, Algeria. The air echelon is in England training on
Beaufighters.
SATURDAY, 12 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-25's, escorted by P-40's, attack Lampedusa Island in the Mediterranean.
The island surrenders unconditionally, and Coldstream Guards go ashore and take
charge
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) and Northwest Tactical Air
Force (Northwest Tactical Air Force (NATAF)) fighters, light, medium and heavy
bombers hit Lampedusa Island in the Mediterranean.
In Sicily, B-17's and B-26's bomb Castelvetrano, Boccadifalco, and Milo
Airfields.
SUNDAY, 13 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Sicily, US and Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers attack Catania and
Gerbini Airfields, causing severe damage to aircraft, runways, hangars, and
other installations. Our heavy bombers claim 5 fighters; 2 B-24's are down at
sea.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest Tactical Air Force (NATAF) and Northwest African Coastal Air Force
(NACAF) carry out land and sea patrols and reconnaissance flights. Northwest
African Photographic Reconnaissance Wing covers areas of Sardinia, Sicily, and
the Italian mainland.
HQ 3d Photographic Reconnaissance and Mapping Group and it's 12th
Photographic Squadron (Light) transfers with F-5's from Algiers, Algeria to La
Marsa, Tunisia.
HQ 82d Fighter Group and it's 95th, 96th and 97th Fighter Squadrons transfer
with P-38's from Berteaux, Algeria to Souk-el-Arba, Algeria.
The 5th Photographic Squadron (Light), Twelfth Air Force transfers with
F-5's from Algiers, Algeria to La Marsa, Tunisia.
The 346th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group which has been operating
it's P-39's from Monastir, Tunisia since 4 Jun returns to it's base at Maison
Blanche, Algeria.
MONDAY, 14 JUNE 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 13/14 Jun, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
Wellingtons bomb Messina, Italy. Other NASAF and Northwest Tactical Air Force
(NATAF) airplanes continue patrols and reconnaissance. The Northwest African
Photographic Reconnaissance Wing maintains flights over Sardinia and Sicily.
TUESDAY, 15 JUNE 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 14/15 Jun, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
Wellingtons bomb the airfields at Milo, Sciacca, Castelvetrano, and
Boccadifalco, Sicily. B-17's, B-25's, B-26's, and P-38's follow during the
morning hours with raids on the same targets and hit the airfield at Bo Rizzo
and radio stations near Marsala, Sicily. Widespread photo reconnaissance of
mainland Italy, Sicily, and Sardinia continues.
A detachment of the 12th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 67th
Reconnaissance Group begins operating from Malta with F-5's.
WEDNESDAY, 16 JUNE 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Photographic Reconnaissance Wing continues coverage of
areas of mainland Italy, Sicily, and Sardinia.
HQ 313th Troop Carrier Group and it's 29th, 47th and 49th Troop Carrier
Squadrons transfer with C-47's from Oujda, French Morocco to Kairouan, Tunisia.
THURSDAY, 17 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
B-24's attack airfields at Biscariy and Comiso, Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 16/17 Jun, Wellingtons bomb docks and a marshalling yard
at Naples, Italy.
HQ 2d Bombardment Group (Heavy) and it's 20th, 49th and 96th Bombardment
Squadrons (Heavy) transfer with B-17's from Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to
Ain M'lila, Algeria.
FRIDAY, 18 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
HQ 324th Fighter Group and it's 314th, 315th and 316th Fighter Squadrons
transfer with P-40's from Kairouan, Tunisia to El Haouaria, Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
B-17's strike the Messina, Italy ferry slip and railroad yards while P-38's
bomb the airfield at Milo, Sicily. B-26's and B-25's, with P-38 escort, hit
docks and shipping at Olbia, Sardinia and shipping at Golfo Aranci, Italy.
Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF) and Northwest African Coastal Air
Force (NACAF) airplanes maintain patrol and reconnaissance flights. Northwest
African Air Force (NAAF) aircraft claim over 40 aircraft destroyed.
The 59th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group transfers with P-40's from
Sousse, Tunisia to Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean.
The 429th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 2d Bombardment Group (Heavy)
transfers with B-17's from Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to Ain M'lila,
Algeria.
SATURDAY, 19 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack ferry and railroad yards at Villa San Giovanni,
ferries in the Straits of Messina, and the harbor of Reggio di Calabria.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 18/19 Jun, Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
Wellingtons bomb Syracuse, Sicily. Northwest Tactical Air Force (NATAF),
Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF), and Northwest African Photographic
Reconnaissance Wing airplanes maintain patrols and reconnaissance over areas of
N Africa, the Mediterranean, Sicily, Sardinia, and mainland Italy.
HQ 33d Fighter Group transfers from Sousse, Tunisia to Pantelleria Island in
the Mediterranean.
HQ 325th Fighter Group and it's 318th and 319th Fighter Squadrons transfer
with P-40's from Souk-el-Khemis, Tunisia to Mateur, Tunisia.
The air echelon of the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, Twelfth Air Force with
Beaufighters joins the ground echelon at La Senia, Algeria after training in
England.
SUNDAY, 20 JUNE 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Messina,
Sicily during the night of 19/20 Jun. The following morning B-26's bomb the
airfields at Milo, Castelvetrano, and Bo Rizzo, Sicily. The Northwest Tactical
Air Force (NATAF) and Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) maintain
patrols, reconnaissance, and convoy escort while the Northwest African
Photographic Reconnaissance Wing continues coverage of areas in Sicily and
mainland Italy.
The 12th Photographic Squadron (Light), 3d Photographic Reconnaissance and
Mapping Group transfers with F-5's from La Marsa, Tunisia to Ariana, Tunisia.
The squadron has a detachment operating on Malta.
The 48th Troop Carrier Squadron, 313th Troop Carrier Group transfers with
C-47's from Oujda, French Morocco to Kairouan, Tunisia.
The 94th Fighter Squadron, 1st Fighter Group transfers with P-38's from
Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to Mateur, Tunisia.
The air echelon of the 111th Reconnaissance Squadron (Fighter), 68th
Reconnaissance Group based at Nouvion, Algeria begins operating at Bou Ficha,
Tunisia with P-51's.
The 311th Bombardment Squadron (Dive), Twelfth Air Force transfers with
A-36's from La Senia, Algeria to Sale, French Morocco. This squadron is
attached to the Northwest African Training Command and trains A-36 pilots.
MONDAY, 21 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
In Italy, B-24's attack the ferry terminal and surrounding areas at Villa
San Giovanni, and the harbor area and railroad yards at Reggio di Calabria.
Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers follow up with raids on the same targets.
HQ 316th Troop Carrier Group and it's 45th Troop Carrier Squadron transfer
with C-47's from Guercif, French Morocco to Enfidaville, Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
In Italy, Wellingtons bomb Naples during the night of 20/21 Jun. The
following day, B-17's hit the Naples railroad yards, Salerno marshalling yard
and trestle, Battipaglia marshalling yard, and Cancello Arnone air depot.
Fighters fly patrol, reconnaissance, and convoy escort.
HQ 61st Troop Carrier Group and it's 59th Troop Carrier Squadron transfer
with C-47's from Lourmel, French Morocco to Kairouan, Tunisia.
HQ 480th Antisubmarine Group, AAF Antisubmarine Command is activated at Port
Lyautey, French Morocco to control Antisubmarine Squadrons patrolling the
Atlantic Ocean off Morocco.
The 60th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group transfers with P-40's from
Sousse, Tunisia to Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean.
The 317th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group transfers with P-40's from
Souk-el-Khemis, Tunisia to Mateur, Tunisia.
TUESDAY, 22 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
P-40's patrol over Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean; there are no
encounters with the enemy.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb Salerno,
Italy during the night of 21/22 Jun. Northwest African Coastal Air Force
(NACAF) Beaufighters sink a small vessel off E Sardinia.
The 7th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62d Troop Carrier Group transfers with
C-47's from Matemore, Algeria to El Djem, Tunisia.
The 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 1st Air Defense Wing transfers with
Beaufighters from La Senia, Algeria to La Sebala, Tunisia.
WEDNESDAY, 23 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Royal Air Force (RAF) Liberators, under the operational control of the IX
Bomber Command, hit the airfield at Comiso, Sicily. Fighters patrol over
Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean without incident.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb the town of
Olbia, Sardinia and lay mines in the harbor during the night of 22/23 Jun.
Photographic reconnaissance airplanes continue missions, flying over areas of
mainland Italy, Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and the S coast of France.
HQ 17th Bombardment Group (Medium) transfers from Sedrata, Algeria to
Djedeida, Tunisia.
The detachment of the 12th Photographic Squadron (Light), 3d Photographic
Reconnaissance and Mapping Group at Malta returns to it's base at Ariana,
Tunisia.
FRIDAY, 25 JUNE 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF) Wellingtons bomb docks and
marshalling yard at Olbia, Sardinia during the night of 24/25 Jun. On the
following day B-17's drop over 300 tons of bombs on Messina, Sicily bombing the
marshalling yard, the W and N part of town, warehouse area and part of
commercial quay.
The 4th Troop Carrier Squadron, 62d Troop Carrier Group transfers with
C-47's from Matemore, Algeria to Goubrine, Tunisia.
The 34th, 37th, 95th and 432d Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 17th
Bombardment Group (Medium) transfer with B-26's from Sedrata, Algeria to
Djedeida, Tunisia.
The 415th Night Fighter Squadron, 1st Air Defense Wing transfers with
Beaufighters from La Sebala, Tunisia to Monastir, Tunisia.
SATURDAY, 26 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
During the night of 25/26 Jun, Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers, under IX
Bomber Command control, bomb Messina, Sicily.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Wellingtons bomb the Bari, Italy oil refinery during the night of 25/26 Jun.
HQ 314th Troop Carrier Group and it's 32d, 50th and 61st Troop Carrier
Squadrons transfer with C-47's from Berguent, French Morocco to Kairouan,
Tunisia.
HQ 319th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 437th, 438th, 439th and 440th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfer with B-26's from Sedrata, Algeria to
Djedeida, Tunisia.
The 10th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group transfers with
C-47's from Thiersville, Algeria to El Djem, Tunisia.
A detachment of the 68th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 44th Bombardment
Group (Heavy) based at Shipdham, England begins operating from Benina, Libya
with B-24's.
SUNDAY, 27 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Beginning this date, the 20lst Bombardment Wing (Provisional)- the 93d,
44th, and 389th Bombardment Groups (Heavy)- of the Eighth Air Force is attached
to the Ninth Air Force for operations.
B-24's hit airfields at Kalamaki and Eleusis, Greece, damaging buildings,
runways, and parked airplanes; they claim 7 fighters shot down.
HQ 57th Fighter Group and it's 64th, 65th and 66th Fighter Squadrons
transfer with P-40's from Tunisia to Malta.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 26/27 Jun, Wellingtons bomb the marshalling yard and
port area of Naples, Italy.
The 328th, 329th, 330th and 409th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 93d
Bombardment Group (Heavy) based at Hardwick, England begin operating from
Bengasi, Libya with B-24's.
The 506th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 44th Bombardment Group (Heavy) based
at Shipdham, England begins operating from Benina, Libya with B-24's.
MONDAY, 28 JUNE 1943
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 27/28 Jun Northwest African Strategic Air Force (NASAF)
Wellingtons bomb the Messina, Sicily marshalling yards and Villa San Giovanni,
Italy. The following day, B-17's hit Leghorn, Italy, B-25's hit airfields near
Olbia, Sardinia and Alghero, Sicily, B-26's attack the landing ground at Milis,
Sardinia, and fighters hit the airfield at Decimomannu, Sardinia.
HQ 60th Troop Carrier Group and it's 11th Troop Carrier Squadron transfer
with C-47's from Thiersville, Algeria to El Djem, Tunisia.
HQ 64th Troop Carrier Group and it's 16th, 17th and 35th Troop Carrier
Squadrons transfer with C-47's from Blida, Algeria to Kairouan, Tunisia.
"A" Flight of the 15th Photographic Squadron (Heavy), 3d Photographic
Reconnaissance and Mapping Group transfers with F-5's from Le Kroub, Algeria to
La Marsa, Tunisia. "B" and "C" Flights are still in the US.
The 27th and 71st Fighter Squadrons, 1st Fighter Group transfer with P-38's
from Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to Mateur, Tunisia.
The 58th Fighter Squadron, 33d Fighter Group transfers with P-40's from
Menzel Temime, Tunisia to Pantelleria Island in the Mediterranean.
The 66th and 67th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 44th Bombardment Group
(Heavy) based at Shipdham, England begin operating from Benina, Libya with
B-24's.
The 345th Fighter Squadron, 350th Fighter Group transfers with P-39's from
Maison Blanche, Algeria to Bone, Algeria.
TUESDAY, 29 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
Royal Air Force (RAF) heavy bombers hit the airfield at Reggio di Calabria,
Italy. P-40's patrol the sea off Cap Bon, Tunisia; there are no incidents.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
Wellingtons during the night of 28/29 Jun raid ferry slips and marshalling
yard at Messina, Sicily. Photographic reconnaissance airplanes cover areas in N
and S Italy, E Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and S France.
HQ 1st Fighter Group transfers from Chateaudun-du-Rhumel, Algeria to Mateur,
Tunisia.
HQ 320th Bombardment Group (Medium) and it's 441st, 442d, 443d and 444th
Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) transfer with B-26's from Montesquieu, Algeria
to Massicault, Tunisia.
The 12th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group transfers with
C-47's from Thiersville, Algeria to El Djem, Tunisia.
WEDNESDAY, 30 JUNE 1943
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Ninth Air Force):
P-40's fly escort for a sea rescue airplane 35 mi (56 km) N of Cap Bon,
Tunisia.
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN (Northwest African Air Force):
During the night of 29/30 Jun over 60 Wellingtons hit the area NW of Cape
San Marco, Italy and the marshalling yard and surrounding area at Messina,
Sicily.
In Sicily the following day, B-17's bomb the airfields at Palermo and
Boccadifalco, B-25's hit the airfield at Sciacca, and B-26's strike the
airfield at Bo Rizzo.
Northwest African Coastal Air Force (NACAF) airplanes sink 2 schooners off S
and E Sardinia and damage a vessel off the W coast of Italy.
HQ 31st Fighter Group and it's 307th and 308th Fighter Squadrons transfer
with Spitfires from Korba, Tunisia to Gozo Island, Malta.
HQ 86th Bombardment Group (Dive) and it's 310th Bombardment Squadron (Dive)
transfer with A-36's from Tafaraoui, Algeria to Korba, Tunisia.
Go to the next Chronology Page (Jul-Dec 1943)
Return to the USAAF MTO Chronology Page
Return to the milhist.net Home Page