February 1945
Today in World War II Pacific History
Day by day chronology

THURSDAY, 1 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): 6 B-24s attack shipping off the French Indochina coast, claiming 1 cargo vessel sunk and a patrol boat damaged. In China, 4 P-40s attack a division HQ SW of Yungning; the 16th Fighter Squadron, 51st Fighter Group, based at Chengkung with P-51s, sends a detachment to operate from Poseh (another detachment is operating from Laohowkow). Lost is B-24D 41-24183.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 33: 113 B-29s are dispatched to hit the naval base at Singapore, Malayan States; 67 bomb the Admiralty IX Floating Drydock (and a vessel berthed in it) and 21 bomb the West Wall area of the naval base; 21 others hit alternate targets at Martaban, Burma and George Town, Malayan States; they claim 3-4-14 Japanese aircraft; 2 B-29s are lost.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 28 fighter-bombers support ground forces around Hosi and Molo; 12 B-25s knock out the Mong Pawn bridge; 8 P-47s damage the approach to the Pa-mao bridge; 8 others hit Hsumhsai Airfield; 90+ fighter-bombers hit troops, supplies, vehicles, a ferry crossing, and various targets of opportunity at several locations including Nauchye, Hsenwi, Man Pwe, Pongkalau, Nawng Mawn, Na-lang, Kunhkan, and Panghtu-Iin. 550 transport sorties are flown to forward areas. The 2d and 4th Combat Cargo Squadrons, 1st Combat Cargo Group, move from Tsuyung and Chengkung, China respectively to Dohazari, India with C-47s; the 459th Fighter Squadron, 80th Fighter Group, moves from Chittagong to Rumkha, India with P-38s. During Feb 45, the 24th Combat Mapping Squadron, 8th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, based at Guskhara sends elements to operate from Tulihal and Cox's Bazar, India with F-7s.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 21 Saipan , Mariana -based B-24s hit Iwo Jima in the afternoon, and 10 more, flying  individual snooper raids, hit the during the night of 1/2 Feb. 20 B-24s from Angaur Airfield bomb Corregidor in Manila Bay, Luzon , Philippine . During Feb 45, the 6th Night Fighter Squadron, VII Fighter Command (attached to 318th Fighter Group) moves from East Field to Kaman Field, Saipan with P-61s (a detachment is operating from Kipapa, Hawaii); the detachment of the 17th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 4th Photographic Group (Reconnaissance), operating from Bougainville , Solomon with F-5s, returns to base on Morotai , Moluccas .

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s pound the Canacao Peninsula and Cavite areas; targets include a shipyard, seaplane base, communications, and supply. B-25s hit Puerto Princesa. On Formosa, B-24s bomb Okayama Airfield during the night of 31 Jan/1 Feb and hit Okayama and Heito Airfields and Toko seaplane base during the following day. The 71st and 823d Bombardment Squadrons (Medium), 38th Bombardment Group (Medium), move from Morotai to Lingayen Airfield with B-25s. During Feb 45, the 160th Liaison Squadron, 3d Air Commando Group, based at Calasio, Luzon with UC-64 and L-5s sends a detachment to operate from Mindoro , Philippines; the 529th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 380th Bombardment Group (Heavy), moves from Darwin to San Jose, Mindoro with B-24s.

MALAYA - B-29 attacked Penang.

FRIDAY, 2 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): 4 P-40s attack a regimental HQ and a storage area at Lungchow, China.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 11 B-25s pound troops and supplies at Loilem; 60+ fighter-bombers support ground forces in the Molo, Hosi, and Mabein areas; troops, supplies, town areas, and vehicles are attacked at Panma, Kan-loi, Pansak, Man Ho Pang, Pongkalau, Hsenwi, Namtu, Panghai, Kong kang, and Ondon. Transports complete 485 sorties to forward bases and over the frontline areas.

(Tenth Air Force) Lost is P-38J 42-67638.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 20 Guam based B-24s pound a storage area on Iwo Jima. During the night of 2/3 Feb, 10 B-24s, flying individual harassment raids, bomb the island's airfields. 4 P-47s, on a reconnaissance flight, strafe buildings on Pagan. 22 B-24s from Angaur Airfield bomb Corregidor.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: Colonel Carl A Brandt becomes Commanding Officer XIII Bomber Command. B-24s continue to pound Corregidor and Cavite and A-20s hit the Baler Bay area. In the Cagayan Valley on Mindanao , Philippine , B-25s attack pillboxes, gun positions, and river barges. B-24s hit Okayama Airfield on Formosa during a dawn raid. HQ 71st Tactical Reconnaissance Group moves from Leyte , Philippine to Binmaley, Luzon.

SATURDAY, 3 FEBRUARY 1945

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 12 B-25s attack troops and supplies at Loilem; 27 fighter-bombers support ground forces in the Molo,
Hosi, and Myitson areas; 80+ fighter-bombers hit troop concentrations, supplies, town areas, tanks, and other targets at Kyaung-hen, Mongkyet, Hsipaw, Hsenwi, Na-sang, Konghsa, and Hkaihsi. Transports complete 531 sorties, landing men and supplies at advanced bases and dropping supplies to forward troops.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA: On Luzon , B-24s again pound Corregidor and the Canacao peninsula; other B-24s hit Aparri and Tuguegarao an in the Batangas area, A-20s continue ground support missions. B-24s bomb Cebu City and surrounding targets. On Mindanao B-25s and P-38s hit Matina, Daliao Airfield and Padada Airfield. Lost is P-61

RAAF: Lost is B-24L Liberator A72-88.

RNZAF: Lost is F4U Corsair NZ5400.

SUNDAY, 4 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 10 P-40s bomb the airfield and Japanese HQ at Yungning and railroad yards at Sinyang; 2 of the P-40s over Sinyang are lost to ground fire. The detachments of the 25th and 26th Fighter Squadrons, 51st Fighter Group, operating from Leangshan and Laohokow, China respectfully with P-51s, return to base at Yunnani and Kunming, China respectfully; the 25th Fighter Squadron sends a detachment to operate from Poseh with P-51s.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 54 P-38s and P-47s destroy or damage bridges at Inailong, Bawgyo, Ho-hko, Hay-ti, Mong Long, and Pa-mao; 26 P-47s support ground forces in the Myitson and Hosi areas. Troops, supplies, and vehicles are attacked at Nam Yem, Na-makhkaw, Mansam, Kong kang, Nawngsong, Mong Yai, Na-lang, and Pangmit. Again transports complete 500+ sorties to advanced bases and over forward areas, where supplies are dropped to troops. The 166th Liaison Squadron, 1st Air Commando Group, moves from Asansol, India to Sinthe, Burma with UC-64s and L-5s.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 9 B-24s from Guam bomb AA defenses on Iwo Jima while 10 hit the town of Okimura on Haha Jima in the Bonin. 2 B-24s from Saipan on an armed reconnaissance flight, bomb Marcus in the North Pacific. 23 B-24s from Angaur Airfield bomb Caballo. During the night of 4/5 Feb, 8 Guam based B-24s, operating singly, pound airfields on Iwo Jima.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 26: For the first time the XXI Bomber Command sends B-29s from 2 wings [the 73d and 313th Bombardment Wings (Very Heavy)] against Japanese Home . 110 B-29s are dispatched; 69 bomb the urban area of Kobe; 30 others, including 15 hitting Natsusaka, bomb last resort targets and targets of opportunity; about 200 attacking fighters down 1 B-29 and damage 35 others; 1 other crashes upon landing at Saipan ; B-29s claim 4-20-39 Japanese aircraft.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s continue to hit Corregidor and Cavite; in support of ground forces B-25s bomb and strafe coast targets from San Felipe to Maloma, hit targets around lba, and drop napalm on San Jose del Monte and A-20s bomb Lipa and Calingatan Airfields. HQ 348th Fighter Group and the 340th Fighter Squadron move from Tanauan to San Marcelino with P-47s.

MONDAY, 5 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): 5 B-24s bomb Kataoka on Shimushu through solid overcast; a shipping sweep by B-25s is cancelled due to weather.

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 14 P-51s and P-40s attack locomotives and trucks at the Pinghan railroad yards, Hsiangcheng, and Lohochai; at least 9 locomotives and an undetermined number of trucks are destroyed; the 21st Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, Fourteenth AF, based at Kunming with F-4s and F-5s, sends a flight to operate from Hsian (another flight is operating from Luliang).

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 35 P-47s support ground forces in the Myitson, Hosi, and Molo areas; 8 P-38s bomb Mong Long; 60 P-38s and P-47s hit troops and supplies at Kan-loi, Nam-yang, Man Peng, Pangmakheleng, Kwangteng, Mong Pa, and Mansam. Transports fly 554 sorties to forward areas.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 21 B-24s from Saipan bomb AA positions, defense installations, and a bivouac on the N end of Iwo Jima; during the night of 5/6 Feb, Iwo Jima airfields are pounded by 10 Saipan based B-24s flying individual snooper strikes. HQ 15th Fighter Group departs Hawaii for Iwo Jima.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: 60 B-24s deliver the heaviest attack yet on Corregidor; support for ground forces continues in various Luzon battle zones. B-25s on a shipping sweep of the E coast claim 9 barges and luggers sunk and several more damaged. B-24s bomb Manggar and Sepinggang Airfields on Borneo. HQ 475th Fighter Group moves from Dulag to San Jose (the group's 3 squadrons, the 431st, 432d and 433d Fighter Squadrons, remain at Dulag with P-38s and send detachments to operate from San Jose). Lost is UC-64 43-51765.

TUESDAY, 6 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 20 P-51s pound and considerably damage Peking Airfield, claiming 7 aircraft destroyed; other fighter-bombers on armed reconnaissance hit several targets of opportunity (mainly rail and river traffic) around Tsingpu, Wuhu, Suchow, Hsiangcheng, Ichang, Chingmen, and Yungning. Fighter-bombers sink numerous river craft on the Mekong River from Wan Mai-Lo to Nguen, Burma.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 86 P-47s and P-38s and 25 B-25s pound troop concentrations, supplies, and AA positions in the Lashio area; 4 P-38s damage the approach to Mong Tong bridge. Transports complete 514 sorties, carrying men and supplies to forward areas.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 9 Guam based B-24s hit AA defenses and radar and radio installations on Iwo Jima; 10 more bomb Ototo Jima in the Volcano and the the town of Omura on Kyushu, Japan. 1 B-24 from Angaur Airfield bombs Koror. On Luzon 2 B-24s hit Bulan Airfield and 19 B-24s bomb Corregidor. 8 B-24s from Guam fly individual strikes against Iwo Jima airfields during the night of 6/7 Feb.

USMC - PBJs from Eniwetok attack Ponape Palikir Airfield Number 2. PBJ-1H 35275 is shot down by anti-aircraft fire.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s bomb Corregidor gun positions; B-25s and P-38s hit Echague and a camp on the Rosario-Baguio road; A-20s attack gun positions and defenses at Nichols Field in support of ground forces and bomb Caballo . B-24s and B-25s fly coastal sweeps hitting various targets at Divilacan Bay, Hondagua, and the Bicol Peninsula. A-20s attack Fabrica Airfield. B-24s with P-38 support hit Manggar and Sepinggang Airfield. The detachment of the 25th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, 6th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, operating from Dulag with F-5s, returns to base at San Jose, Mindoro. The 342d and 460th Fighter Squadrons, 348th Fighter Group, move from Tanauan to San Marcelino with P-47s.

WEDNESDAY, 7 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): 6 B-24s off to Kataoka, Shimushu abort the mission when all aircraft accidentally drop bombs prior to the bombing run. 4 B-25s weather abort.

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 11 P-51s knock out a bridge at Hengshan; 34 P-40s hit river, road, and rail traffic from Kweiyi to Hengshan, from Chiuchiang to Wuhu, from Siaokan southward, in the area S of Tsinan, and N of Tehsien, and from Wan Mai-Lo, Burma to Luang Prabang, French Indochina. 2 fighter-bombers hit the warehouse area at Kweihsien, China.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): 2 missions are flown. Mission 34: 67 B-29s are dispatched to hit Saigon, French Indochina; 44 bomb the primary target (11 drop prematurely and 33 hit a residential section), 19 hit Pnom Penh, a target of opportunity, and 2 bomb the last resort target, the marshalling yard at Martaban, Burma; they claim 0-0-1 Japanese aircraft; 1 B-29 is lost. Mission 35: 64 B-29s are dispatched to hit the Rama VI bridge at Bangkok, 58 bomb and effect the collapse of most of middle span of the bridge (this is the 3d strike at this target) and destroy the NE approach; 1 B-29 bombs the Martaban, Burma marshalling yard; no B-29s are lost.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 11 B-25s attack tanks and troops at Man Namman; 50 P-47s support forces preparing to cross the Shweli River in the Myitson area; 40+ P-47s and P-40s attack troops and supply areas at Nawngkalio, Man Li, Hsunkwe, Nawnghkio, Loi Hkam, Panghsapye, Na-lang, Wingnang, and Pang Eng Hkye. 464 transport sorties are flown to advanced bases and frontline areas. In India, the 5th and 6th Fighter Squadrons (Commando), 1st Air Commando Group, move from Fenny and Asansol respectfully to Hay with P-47s; the detachment of the 127th Liaison Squadron (Commando), 2d Air Commando Group, operating from Cox's Bazar with UC-64s and L-5s
returns to base at Kalaikunda; and the 317th Troop Carrier Squadron(Commando), 2d Air Commando Group, moves from Kalaikunda to Palel with C-47s.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 6 B-24s from Saipan bomb the town of Okimura on Haha Jima ; 8 B-24s hit AA positions and radio and radar installations on Iwo Jima, while 2 others bomb the airfield in Woleai. From Angaur Airfield 20 B-24s bomb Silay and Talisay Airfields on Negros and 1 bombs Opon Airfield. 9 B-24s on snooper raids from Saipan duringthe night of 7/8 Feb, bomb Iwo Jima airfields.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: On Formosa, B-24s, with P-38 support hit targets of opportunity at Heito Airfield and other points (after weather prevents the bombing of Takao) and B-25s, with P-51 cover, fly several sweeps, claiming a sub sunk, a tanker set afire, a large motor launch sunk, other shipping damaged, and several vehicles and an airplane destroyed. On Luzon , A-20s, supporting ground operations, attack the hills W of Clark Field. B-24s hit Bago and Mandaue on Negros. In Borneo, other B-24s bomb Tawau and-in another mission Miri Airfield, Tutong oil refinery pump station and power house. The 341st Fighter Squadron, 348th Fighter Group, moves from Tanauan to San Marcelino with P-47s.

THURSDAY, 8 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): In the Kurile , 4 B-25s abort a mission to the Masugawa River when unable to identify the target.

RCAF - Lost after take off from Tofino is PBY 11007.

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 10 P-51s knock out a bridge at Shihtangchung and blast a bridge approach at Changsha; 9 other fighters knock out another bridge N of Changsha; 4 fighters hit railroad targets of opportunity from Linfen to Yutze to Shihkiachwang and bomb Tsinan Airfield.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): In India, HQ 58th Bombardment Wing (Very Heavy) moves from Kharagpur to Hijli Base Area.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 72 P-47s support ground forces in the Myitson area; 37 P-47s and P-38s hit troops, supply areas, ammunition dumps, and targets of opportunity at Namsaw, Hsunkwe, Loi-Kong, Nawng-un, Hsipaw, Panghai, and Kongnio, and bomb a village near Pangkawn. Transports fly 581 sorties carrying men and supplies to forward bases and dropping supplies to frontline areas. The 155th Liaison Squadron (Commando), 2d Air Commando Group, based at Kalaikunda, India with UC-64s and L-5s, sends a detachment to operate from various bases in Burma.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 20 B-24s from Guam bomb radar and radio installations and AA defenses on Iwo Jima in the afternoon; during the night of 8/9 Feb, 10 B-24s fly single-plane snooper strikes against Iwo Jima airfields.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 27: 30 of 31 B-29s from the Mariana bomb Airfield Number 1 on Moen in Truk Atoll

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: On Luzon, B-24s bomb the town of Mariveles on Bataan Peninsula and B-25s sink or damage several small vessels along the E coast and hit Legaspi Airfield. B-24s bomb Manggar and Sepinggang Airfields. Units moving to San Marcelino: HQ 309th Bombardment Wing from Owi, and the 421st Night Fighter Squadron, 86th Fighter Wing, from Tacloban, with P-38s and P-61s.

FRIDAY, 9 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 8 fighters hit rail bridges in the Kiyang and Lukou areas, damaging 1 bridge; several trucks are strafed and destroyed; 3 fighters on a railroad sweep destroy several locomotives between Peking and Sinsiang; several other fighters bomb railroad yards at Kaifeng and the airfield at Sinsiang; Chinese-American Composite Wing (CACW) fighters make a surprise strike at Tsingtao Airfield, and claim about 100 aircraft destroyed and damaged, and also destroy several nearby locomotives.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 10 B-25s damage a bridge at Tonglau and destroy 1 bridge and damage another at Ke-hsi Mansam; 2 others pound trucks, gun positions, and buildings during a road sweep from Hsipaw to Loilem to Lashio; 9 P-47s knock out a bridge at Bawgyo and damage another at Inailong; 22 P-47s support ground forces in the Myitson area; troops, supplies, and communications are attacked at Tangtong, Man Mau, Se-u, Mansam, Panghai, Na-lang, and Man hpat by 40+ fighter-bombers. 479 transport sorties are flown to forward areas.

AAFPOA
Seventh Air Force: 22 B-24s from Guam and Saipan bomb airfields, defense and radar-radio installations and AA positions on Iwo Jima; during the night of 9/10 Feb, 11 more B-24s from Saipan make separate strikes against airfields and AA defenses. HQ 21st Fighter Group departs Hawaii for Iwo Jima. VI Air Service Area Command: The 311th Troop Carrier Squadron arrives at Kahuku, Hawaii from the U.S. with C-47s (the squadron will perform aerial transportation in the C and W Pacific, Feb-2 Sep 45).

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 28: 29 XXI Bomber Command B-29s hit Moen for the second consecutive day, bombing airfield number 2.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s fly morning and afternoon raids against Corregidor gun positions; A-20s also hit Corregidor; Mariveles and the S part of Bataan Peninsula are pounded by B-24s and A-20s throughout the morning and afternoon; B-25s and P-51s hit shipping near Legaspi and in San Miguel Bay and destroy buildings at San Fernando on Negros . In support of ground forces, A-24s and P-40s over Balete Pass area attack bridges and roads. The 17th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, Thirteenth AF, based at Morotai with B-25s and F-5s, sends a detachment to operate from Dulag. The 421st Night Fighter Squadron, 86th Fighter Wing, based at San Marcelino, with P-38s and P-61s, sends a detachment to operate from Tacloban. Lost on a combat training mission is A-20G "Shag On" 43-9134.

SATURDAY, 10 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, HQ 308th Bombardment Group moves from Kunming to Hsinching; the 35th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, Fourteenth AF, based at Chanyi with F-5s, sends a flight to operate from Chengkung (another flight is at Chihkiang).

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 5 B-25s destroy the Laihka Bridge; 4 others hit the Namsang Bridge, with poor results; 9 P-47s knock out approaches to the Pa-mao Bridge while 8 others destroy half of the bridge at Inailong; 15 P-47s support ground forces in the Mongmit area, concentrating on Japanese positions S of Myitson; 76 fighter-bombers attack troops and supply areas at Panglong, Namsangsok, Namtu, Kutkai, Mong Yaw, Mongmit, Ho-mong, Man Pwe, Namsam, and Loiya. Again transports fly 500+ sorties to forward areas.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 10 Guam based B-24s bomb Okimura on Haha Jima. Lost is B-24L 44-41465; 6 P-38s escort a photo mission and fly fighter a sweep over Iwo Jima. 17 B-24s from Guam, with P-38 escort, pound Iwo Jima in the late afternoon, and 9 more make single bomber harassment strikes on the during the night of 10/11 Feb.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 29: 118 B-29s from the Mariana are dispatched to hit the Nakajima aircraft plant at Ota, Japan; 84 hit the primary target and 14 hit other targets; they claim 21-15-26 Japanese aircraft; 12 B-29s are lost.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: Brigadier General Frederick H Smith Jr becomes Commanding General V Fighter Command. On Luzon, B-24s again blast Japanese gun positions while P-51s and P-38s, supporting ground forces hit communications targets in the Bayambang-Santa Fe area, while B-25s in the area blast villages where vehicles are hidden; B-24s, A-20s, and fighter-bombers completely saturate the S part of Bataan Peninsula with bombs during morning and afternoon attacks, thoroughly pummelling defenses and forces. P-47s on a fighter sweep over Formosa claim 10 aerial victories. HQ 312th Bombardment Group and the 386th and 387th Bombardment Squadrons move from Tanauan to Mangaldan with A-20s.

SUNDAY, 11 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): Of 7 B-24s off on an air cover mission for a naval task force, only 3 reach the target.

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 17 B-25s hit railroad yards at Sinyang and Lohochai and a locomotive foundry at Hsuchang; 23 P-47s pound Hankow Airfield; 8 fighters hit Anyang Airfield and Pinghan railroad targets of opportunity; B-24s claim 2 cargo vessels sunk in the S China Sea.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 36: 56 of 59 B-29s bomb storage dumps around Rangoon; they claim 0-0-3 Japanese aircraft; no B-29s are lost; the mission is flown in conjunction with B-24s of the Eastern Air Command's Strategic AF which also hit the target.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 11 B-25s bomb troops and supplies at Loilem; 22 P-47s support ground forces in the Mongmit area, hitting buildings at Nabu and Japanese positions S of Myitson; 100+ fighter-bombers pound troop concentrations, supplies, ammunition dumps, gun positions, and targets of opportunity at several locations including Pangsang, Taung-gaing, Panghsapye, Nampok, Byaungbyan, Manai, Kutkai, Mongmit, Namun, and Pangmakhe-leng. Transports complete 503 sorties to forward bases and over frontline areas (dropping supplies).

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 21 B-24s from Saipan operating in 2 separate forces, bomb airfields and defenses on Iwo Jima; 3 others, on armed reconnaissance, bomb Marcus. 25 B-24s based on Angaur Airfield bomb Corregidor. During the night of 11/12 Feb, 10 B-24s from Saipan fly individual harassment strikes against Iwo Jima.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 30: 9 B-29s from the Mariana carry out a reconnaissance mission for the US Navy; 1 returns early; the area covers 135-OOE to 148-OOE to 30-OON.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s attack Corregidor almost continuously throughout the day; fighter-bombers support ground forces blasting numerous targets from Cauringan to Taytay and at Wawa, Montalban, Antipolo, and Marikina. P-47s blast a train NE of Heito, Formosa. B-24s fly a light strike against Bago on Negros . The 388th and 389th Bombardment Squadrons, 312th Bombardment Group, move from San Jose to Mangaldan with A-20s. Lost on take off from Hill Airstrip is B-25D "Little Joe" 42-87281.

MONDAY, 12 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): B-25s cancel a cover mission for a naval force because of weather.

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 6 P-51s destroy 6 locomotives between Suchow and Pengpu and strafe the Nanking and Suchow airfields; other fighters claim at least 10 more locomotives destroyed in areas S of the Yellow River; P-40s bomb troops in the Hsiangcheng area and hit trains on the Pinghan railroad; HQ 81st Fighter Group and the 92d Fighter Squadron move from Kwanghan to Fungwansham with P-47s.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): 23 P-47s support ground forces hitting NE of Nabu and bombing mortar positions S of Myitson; 4 others support forces at Loiya; 3 P-47s severely damage a bridge at Pa-mao; 60+ P-47s and P-38s pound supply areas, troops, tanks, and trucks at various locations including Hu-kawt, Kongtap, Namtu, Namta-gun, Mongmit, Loingu, and Tonsing. 520 transport sorties are flown to forward areas throughout the day.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 9 Guam based B-24s pound Chichi Jima naval installations while 19 bomb airfields and defenses on Iwo Jima; during the night of 12/13 Feb, 8 B-24s from Guam fly single bomber harassment strikes against both Iwo and Chichi Jima.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): 2 missions are flown. Mission 31: 21 B-29s from the Mariana bomb heavy AA sites on Iwo Jima in preparation for the amphibious invasion of the on 19 Feb; no losses. Mission 32: 10 B-29s fly a reconnaissance mission for the US Navy covering from 135-OOE to 148-OOE and to 30-OON; 1 B-29 is lost.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s continue to pound Corregidor; A-20s sweeping S Bataan Peninsula, sink about 30 barges loaded with troops, ammunition, and supplies; throughout the day B-25s and fighters directly support ground forces on the Bataan Peninsula and from Lingayen Gulf area to Nichols Field. The 67th Fighter Squadron, 347th Fighter Group, based on Middelburg with P-38s, begins operating from Morotai. The 498th, 499th, 500th and 501st Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 345th Bombardment Group (Medium), move from Tacloban to San Marcelino with B-25s.

TUESDAY, 13 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, fighters sweep the railroad from Sinyang to Hsuchang, bomb the approach to a Hsuchang bridge, and strafe Sinyang and Ichang Airfields; B-25s bomb a foundry at Hsuchang

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, troop concentrations, supply areas, and targets of opportunity are pounded by 70 fighter-bombers at several locations including Kongpaw, Namtu, Kyao-hpak, Laihka, Kon-wet, Mong Pa, Hkom-nio, and Naung-lang; 19 fighter-bombers support ground forces in the Mongmit-Myitson area; 16 fighter-bombers knock out the approach to the main bridge and damage the bypass bridge at Hay-ti. 477 air supply sorties are flown by transports throughout the day. In India, the 1st and 2d Fighter Squadrons (Commando) move from Kalaikunda to Cox's Bazar with P-51s.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 25 B-24s from Saipan fly two strikes against Iwo Jima, while 10 others hit Haha Jima ; during the night of 13/14 Feb, 5 B-24s, flying individual harassment strikes, bomb Iwo Jima at intervals over an 8-hour period.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s continue to pound Corregidor as a large segment of B-24s attack the main coastal guns and score direct hits on several batteries; B-24s bomb Mariveles on Bataan Peninsula while A-20s and P-47s bomb and strafe targets of opportunity throughout the S part of Bataan Peninsula; B-25s and fighters attack small shipping during sweeps of E and N coasts. B-25s, with fighter support, hit Kagi Airfield on Formosa. HQ 345th Bombardment Group (Medium), moves from Tacloban to San Marcelino. The 339th Fighter Squadron, 347th Fighter Group, based on Middelburg with P-38s, begins operating from Morotai.

WEDNESDAY, 14 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): 3 B-24s bomb and photograph Suribachi Airfield on Paramushiru , Kurile (the secondary target).

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, P-47s bomb Kaifeng Airfield and P-51s hit Shihkiachwang Airfield, destroying several parked aircraft; the
P-51s afterwards blast 7 locomotives between Puchou and Sinsiang; other fighters destroy 7 more locomotives between Sinyang and Hsuchang, bomb the railroad yards at Lohochai, and destroy a fuel dump at Hsiangcheng.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 12 B-25s attack vehicles along roads from Lashio to Takaw to Hopong; 7 P-47s strafe Laihka Airfield; bad weather cancels other scheduled offensive missions. Transports continue to operate despite the weather, completing 520 sorties to forward areas.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 17 Guam based B-24s pound defenses and radar and radio installations on Iwo Jima at midday; during the night of 14/15 Feb, 5 more B-24s, flying individual snooper missions bomb Iwo Jima Airfield and AA positions while 4 in separate strikes hit Susaki Airfield on Chichi Jima .

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 33: 6 B-29s from the Mariana  again carry out a reconnaissance mission for the US Navy, covering the area northward from the base line at 28-02N 145-55E to 28-44N 148-OOE.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s continue to bomb Corregidor, concentrating on the dock area and gun positions; other B-24s bomb Mariveles on Bataan Peninsula and B-25s bomb the airfield at Tuguegarao; B-25s and fighters provide excellent support for ground forces, blasting guns and troops W of Clark Field, N of Marikina airfield, and N of Montalban; A-20s pound the general area of S Bataan. On Mindanao , B-25s bomb barges at Zamboanga and P-38s bomb Matina Airfield. Fighters on armed reconnaissance strafe airfields on Negros and Cebu . A few B-25s bomb Kagi Airfield on Formosa and nearby targets of opportunity. HQ 54th Troop Carrier Wing moves from Biak , New Guinea to Leyte . The 550th Night Fighter Squadron, XIII Fighter Command (attached to XIII Bomber Command) moves from Hollandia, New Guinea to Morotai with P-38s, P-61s and P-70s (the detachment operating from Middelburg also moves to Morotai).

THURSDAY, 15 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 15 fighter-bombers attack railroad targets at Saiping, in the Hankow area, N of Sinantien, between Hsuchang and Loyang, and along the Yangtze River from Wuhu to Hankow; the 27th Troop Carrier Squadron, 443d Troop Carrier Group, moves from Yunnani to Chengkung with C-47s; the 528th Fighter Squadron, 311th Fighter Group, based at Shwangliu with P-51s, sends a detachment to operate from Hsian.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 12 B-25s hit buildings, troops, and other targets of opportunity during a sweep from Lashio to Loilem and along the road E and W from Loilem; 20 P-47s fly close support strikes in the Mongmit-Myitson area; a bridge at Hay-ti is knocked out by 6 P-47s; 56 P-47s attack troops, town areas, and supplies at Paukmyaing, Nam-hpuktok, Namtoi, and Namhu-tau and 8 P-47s hit the Li-lu ferry area. Large-scale transport operations continue; 511 sorties are flown to forward areas.

VI Air Service Area Command: The 311th Troop Carrier Squadron, VI Air Service Area Command, moves from Kahuku to Bellows Field with C-47s.

Seventh Air Force: 24 B-24s from Saipan in two separate strikes, bomb Iwo Jima airfields and AA defenses; 12 others hit the airfield on Chichi Jima; 4 B-24s from Guam, escorting photo aircraft bomb airfields on Param and Moen; 5 B-24s fly night harassment raids against Iwo Jima and Chichi Jima

USN - The first carrier plane strikes take place on Tokyo. The pre-invasion offensive begins on Iwo Jima. Lost on a training flight is SBD-5 piloted by Battenfield.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 34: 117 B-29s from the Mariana are dispatched to hit the Mitsubishi aircraft engine works at Nagoya, Japan; 33 hit the primary; 68 hit targets of last resort and targets of opportunity, 54 of them bombing Hamamatsu; they claim 7-8-23 Japanese aircraft; 1 B-29 is lost.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-25s attack bridges in the S part of Formosa. B-24s again blast Corregidor with A-20s and fighter-bombers bombing and strafing its few remaining gun positions; fighter-bombers hit Caballo and fighter-bombers, B-25s, and A-20s hit Bataan Peninsula all day; also hit are troops and gun positions in the Ft William McKinley area and airfields at Tuguegarao and Echague. The 68th Troop Carrier Squadron, 433d Troop Carrier Group, moves from Biak , New Guinea to Tanauan, Leyte with C-46s.

FRIDAY, 16 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 33 fighter-bombers attack airfields in the Nanking area, railroad yards at Hsuchang and Tungpu, and hit rail and river traffic from Wuhu to Hankow, in the Sinsiang area, and in French Indochina, the Luang Prabang area, and from Muong Soui to the Mekong River.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 12 B-25s bomb troops, storage areas, and vehicles during offensive reconnaissance along roads S of Lashio and from Hsenwi to Loilem; 31 P-47s support ground forces in the Myitson area; about 160 fighter-bombers attack town areas, troop concentrations, artillery positions, transportation targets, and general targets of opportunity at Namtu, Wengkau, Hsipaw, Namhsawng-hawng, Hunhla, Mong Yai, Sinkin, Panghung, Hatka, Na-kyeh, and Panglong and similar targets at Kyawngsu, Kunsanlek, Namloi, Man-kyawng, Tonsing, Sam-Lau, and Mong Li. Transports fly 632 sorties delivering men and supplies to forward bases and dropping supplies to frontline troops.

USN - First carrier strike mission over Tokyo. Lost is F6F piloted by Torrey.

MALAYA - One B-29 was shot down over Singapore.

PACIFIC OCEAN AREA (Army Air Forces, Pacific Ocean Area) VI Air Service Area Command: The 316th Troop Carrier Squadron, VI Air Service Area Command, moves from Kahuku to Bellows Field with C-47s. Seventh Air Force: 2 Guam -based B-24s on an armed reconnaissance flight bomb Marcus in the N Pacific. 42 sent against Iwo Jima are recalled due to total cloud cover over the target. During the night of 16/17 Feb, 4 Guam-based B-24s, striking separately, hit Susaki Airfield on Chichi Jima .

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: Fighters attack vehicles and trains in the S part of Formosa. On Luzon , 120+ A-20s and B-24s pound Corregidor during the early daylight hours; amphibious and airborne landings follow and the paratroops soon link up with the beachhead; A-20s and fighter-bombers also bomb nearby Caballo ; B-25s support ground forces in the Mariveles area, hit facilities at Baguio and Santa Fe, and bomb Camalaniugan Airfield. P-38s hit Likanan and Matina Airfields on Mindanao and B-24s pound Kendari Airfield.

SATURDAY, 17 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): 4 B-25s provide air coverage for a naval task force en route to Paramushiru .

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 30 B-25s bomb Linfen and Yuncheng; a single B-25 hits railroad targets of opportunity from Hengyang to Lingling; 27 P-40s and P-51s attack animal transport, barracks, railroad targets, and the town area at Puchi; 16 P-47s hit the Hankow-Wuchang area; 37 other fighter-bombers attack railroad yards and targets of opportunity and road and river traffic near Tsinan, Changsha, and Kweiyi, and at Sinyang, Linfen, and Lung Hai.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): 14 P-47s support ground forces in the Mongmit-Myitson area; 140+ fighter-bombers strike at troop concentrations, supply points, transport, animal concentrations, tanks, and arms and ammunition stores are pounded in N Burma including at Hko-lawng, Hai-pu, Na-kyeh, Man Sang, Samlan, Hkummanmao, Mong Lang, Na-leng, Honwo, and Loi-pyek; and 10 B-25s bomb troops and supplies at Hai-hseng. 603 transport sorties are flown. The detachment of the 24th Combat Mapping Squadron, 8th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, operating from Chanyi, China with F-7s returns to base at Guskhara.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 42 B-24s from Saipan blast defense installations and a bivouac area on Iwo Jima; 3 others, on an armed reconnaissance flight, bomb Marcus; 3 B-24s from Guam escorting a photo plane over Truk Atoll bomb Param, Uman, and Eten at Truk Lagoon. 5 B-24s from Saipan fly individual snooper strikes during the night of 17/18 Feb, against Chichi Jima. The air echelon of the 548th Night Fighter Squadron, VII Fighter Command, begins operating from Saipan with P-61s (ground echelon is enroute from Hawaii to Iwo Jima).

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 35: 8 of 9 B-29s from Saipan bomb the submarine pens on Dublon, Truk Atoll without loss.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s, with fighter support attack the airfield, railroad yard, and aluminum plant at Takao, Formosa. On Luzon , A-20s support ground forces in the Mariveles area and hit caves and dugouts in hills W of Ft Stotsenburg; A-20s, B-25s, and fighter-bombers attack Tuguegarao and the coastal town of San Fernando. B-24s pound Miri Airfield in Borneo. HQ 375th Troop Carrier Group moves from Biak
to San Jose, Mindoro.

SUNDAY, 18 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): 7 B-24s fly cover sorties for a naval force during its approach to Kurabu Cape, Paramushiru.

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 25 fighter-bombers attack the Sinyang railroad yards and airfield and targets of opportunity along the Pinghan railroad, at Chiuchiang, in the Nanking area, E of Lohochai, and SE of Hsuchang; 4 B-24s over the S China Sea claim damage on 2 vessels; the 374th, 375th and 425th Bombardment Squadrons (Heavy), 308th Bombardment Group (Heavy), move from Chengkung and Kunming to Kwanghan with B-24s.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 12 B-25s demolish bridges at Namsang and Ke-hsi Mansam; 30+ fighter-bombers support ground forces in the Mongmit-Myitson-Nabu area; 100+ fighter-bombers pound troop concentrations, supplies, vehicles, and other targets immediately in advance of the southward moving battleline. Transports fly 602 sorties to the forward areas.

USN - Task Force 58 fulfills its mission. The complete destruction of the Japanese base at Truk with air attacks.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 36 Guam based B-24s dispatched against Iwo Jima are recalled because of complete cloud cover over the target. 3 others on armed reconnaissance bomb Marcus. During the night of 18/19 Feb, 9 B-24s from Guam individually strike Chichi Jima.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 36: 36 Mariana -based B-29s bomb 2 airfields on Moen in Truk Atoll without loss. HQ 39th and 330th Bombardment Groups (Very Heavy) and the 457th, 458th and 459th Bombardment Squadrons (Very Heavy) arrive at North Field from the US with B-29s (first mission is 12 Apr).

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: On Formosa, B-24s bomb Takao, Okayama, and Toshien Airfields and P-38s provide support while B-25s and fighters pound communications targets and targets of opportunity throughout Formosa. B-25s and fighters continue to fly numerous missions in support of the ground forces on Luzon. B-24s bomb Labuan Airfield in Borneo.

MONDAY, 19 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): In the Kurile , 6 B-24s fly photo reconnaissance over Shimushu and bomb Kurabu Cape Airfield on Paramushiru ; 6 Japanese fighters intercept; the B-24s claim 4 damaged. 4 B-25s weather-abort a mission to hit targets along the Hayakegawa River.

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 14 P-51s and P-40s blast rail and river traffic at Chiuchiang, Hsuchang, Lung Hai, and Tsinpu.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 37: 49 of 59 B-29s bomb the Central Railroad Repair Shops at Kuala Lumpur, some bombing from only 1,000' Four other B-29s hit alternate targets, the Alor Star Airfield, and the marshalling yard at Martaban, Burma; they claim 1-0-7 Japanese aircraft; no B-29s are lost.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 24 B-25s and 31 P-47s fly close support strikes in the Mongmit-Myitson area; 70+ fighter-bombers hit troop concentrations, supplies, and villages behind the battleline in C Burma. Heavy transport operations continue. The 165th Liaison Squadron (Commando), 1st Air Commando Group, moves from Shwebo, Burma to Asansol, India with UC-64s and L-5s.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 44 B-24s from Saipan are sent against Iwo Jima; 14 pound defense positions and bivouac and storage areas little more than an hour before elements of the American landings.

USMC - US 4th and 5th Marine Divisions make an amphibious landing on the SE coast at 0900 hours; the other 30 B-24s abort because of cloud cover, mechanical trouble, or arrival over target too late to make a bomb run. 26 B-24s from Angaur Airfield bomb Likanan Airfield on Mindanao . During the night of 19/20 Feb, 8 Saipan-based B-24s fly individual heckler strikes over Chichi Jima.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 37: 150 B-29s are dispatched to hit the Musashino aircraft plant in Tokyo hoping to draw air reinforcements away from the Iwo Jima invasion; thick clouds completely cover the primary target so 119 bomb the port and urban area of Tokyo; 12 others hit targets of last resort and targets of opportunity; they claim 39-16-37 Japanese aircraft; 6 B-29s are lost.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: Major General Paul B Wurtsmith becomes Commanding General Thirteenth AF. In Formosa, B-24s bomb Koshun, Heito, and Takao Airfields and B-25s and fighters on sweeps attack a large number of targets of opportunity including trains, parked aircraft, buildings, and coastal vessels. In the C Philippine , US Marine Corps (USMC) F4Us under the tactical command of the Thirteenth AF fly napalm strikes against airfields and other targets. On Luzon , fighters, B-25s, and A-20s continue to support ground forces at San Augustin, Carranglen, Balete Pass, and Bataan Peninsula and bomb Japanese-held sectors on Corregidor. B-24s bomb Miri Airfield.

TUESDAY, 20 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 34 P-51s pound locomotives, railroad cars, and other targets of opportunity at Tsingtao and Puchi; about 30 other fighter-bombers on armed reconnaissance hit targets of opportunity (mainly rail and river traffic) at scattered locations including Changsha, Lohochai, Tsingtao, Chukiatsi, N of Lingling, and between Siangsiang and Siangtan.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 44 P-47s fly close support strikes in the Mongmit battle sector; 8 support ground forces in the Namhsan area; 13 P-38s severely damage a bridge at Mong Long; nearly 100 P-47s and P-38s pound troop concentrations, supply and ammunition dumps, and general targets of opportunity behind enemy lines. Large-scale transport operations continue. The 164th Liaison Squadron (Commando), 1st Air Commando Group, moves from Assansol, India to Shwebo with UC-64s and L-5s.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 2 Guam based B-24s on an armed reconnaissance flight bomb Marcus in the N Pacific. During the night of 20/21 Feb, 7 B-24s flying individual raids, bomb the town of Okimura and airfield on Haha Jima. The air echelon of the 549th Night Fighter Squadron begins operating from Saipan with P-61s (ground echelon is
enroute from Hawaii to Iwo Jima).

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s bomb runways and warehouse at Jesselton Airfield. Buildings at Puerto Princesa and underground installation on Corregidor are pounded. 63 B-25's of the 345th BG and the 38th BG and covered by 32 P-47 's of the 35th FG took off from Clark Field hit Choshu and also hit railroad yards, vehicles, railway rolling stock, and buildings. One B-25 was lost and P-47D "Nancie-A" 42-28493.

HQ moves from Darwin, Australia to San Jose, Mindoro . The 23d Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 5th Bombardment Group (Heavy), moves from Morotai to Guiuan Airfield.

WEDNESDAY, 21 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 21 B-25s, supported by 12 P-51s, pound Taiyuan; 2 B-25s and 12 P-40s hit Yoyang; about 100 fighter-
bombers on armed reconnaissance attack troops, trucks, horses, railroad targets, river shipping, and other targets of opportunity at many locations throughout S and E China; the detachment of the 530th Fighter Squadron, 311th Fighter Group, operating from Hsian with P-51s, returns to base at Kwanghan.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 16 P-47s provide close support for ground forces in the Namhsan area; 15 support ground forces in the Mongmit sector; 100+ fighter-bombers strike supply and troop concentrations and make offensive sweeps of roads along the battleline areas. Transports continue to land men and supplies at forward bases and drop supplies to frontline troops. The 127th Liaison Squadron (Commando), 2d Air Commando Group, based at Kalaikunda, India, sends a detachment to operate from Akyab, Burma with UC-64s and L-5s.

USN - Japanese kamikaze planes sink the escort carrier USS Bismarck Sea CVE-95 and damage the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 24 P-47s from Saipan hit Pagan with napalm. P-38s from Guam escort photo aircraft over Truk Atoll and strafe aircraft on Moen and a wharf on Falas. 3 Guam based B-24s on an armed reconnaissance flight bomb the airfield on Marcus in the N Pacific. During the night of 21/22 Feb, 6 B-24s fly individual snooper raids from Guam against Chichi Jima.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: On Luzon, B-24s bomb Japanese positions in the hills W of Ft Stotsenburg, P-47s pound Corregidor and strafe the Bagae-Pilar road and P-40s support ground forces at Marikina, San Mateo, and on Corregidor; and Basco is hit by B-25s, A-20s, and P-38s. In Borneo, B-24s bomb Kudat and Sandakan Airfields while A-20s attack Jesselton Airfield and town. The 528th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), (Heavy), moves from Darwin, Australia to San Jose, Mindoro with B-24s.

Philippines - American forces bombarded the 40' thick walls of Manila's Intramutros Spanish walled fortress. Inside are fanatical Japanese defenders and civilians, and it is hoped that a hole in the wall can be opened without bombing the historic fortress from the air.

THURSDAY, 22 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 19 fighter-bombers hit villages, tanks, and trucks from Hsiangcheng to Hsuchang, attack railroad traffic around Sinsiang and Linfen, hit river craft, trucks, and troops in the Chiuchiang area, and claim 1 freighter sunk on the Yangtze River between Hankow and Nanking; a single B-25 attacks convoys in the Siang-Chiang Valley near Hengyang.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 29 P-47s support ground forces in the Namhsan area; 11 closely support forces in the Mongmit sector;
about 100 fighter-bombers attack troop concentrations, gun positions, supply points, trucks, and animal transport in the battle areas and behind enemy lines. Transports complete 600+ sorties to forward areas throughout the day.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 3 B-24s on armed reconnaissance from Guam bomb the airfield on Marcus in the N Pacific. During the night of 22/23 Feb, 6 B-24s fly individual harassment strikes against Susaki Airfield and the town of Okimura on Haha Jima.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: On Luzon, 100 B-24s hit troop concentrations NW of Ft Stotsenburg, P-47s pound Corregidor, A-20s hit concentrations at Pugo, SW of Baguio, B-24s bomb supply areas N and W of Baguio while P-51s hit Angin and Marikina. B-24s bomb Tarakan and Labuan Airfields in Borneo. Units moving from New Guinea: HQ 42d Bombardment Group (Medium) Sansapor to Morotai [the group's 75th and
100th Bombardment Squadrons (Medium) remain at Sansapor but begins operating from Morotai with B-25s]; HQ 347th Fighter Group and the 67th and 339th Fighter Squadrons from Middelburg to San Jose, Mindoro with P-38s (the 67th and 339th are operating from Morotai).

FRIDAY, 23 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 29 B-24s and 22 fighters scheduled to attack Shihkiachwang abort because of bad weather; 8 P-51s hit railroad targets of opportunity near Siaokan and attack river traffic from Nanking to Hankow; 5 B-24s sweep Gulf of Tonkin and S China Sea, damaging 1 vessel; 4 P-40s attack targets of opportunity in the Kaifeng area.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 20+ P-47s support ground forces in the Mongmit sector and near Lashio, hitting a Japanese concentration; 12 B-25s and 120+ fighter-bombers continue pounding troop concentrations, supply areas, road traffic, and ammunition dumps in the frontline areas and behind enemy lines. A large transport effort completes 655 sorties.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 26 B-24s from Angaur Airfield bomb San Roque Airfield. 2 P-47s fromm Saipan on armed reconnaissance strafe Pagan. On the night of 23/24 Feb, 7 B-24s from Guam fly snooper raids against the airfield on Cbichi Jima and the town of Okimura on Haha Jima.

IWO JIMA - US Marines raise the US flag on the summit of Mount Suribachi on Iwo Jima.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: Strikes supporting ground forces continue throughout the battle zones on Luzon. In Borneo, P-47s hit Jesselton Airfield while B-24s bomb Sandakan, Lahat Datu, and Miri Airfields. In French Indochina, B-25s on shipping sweeps bomb vessels in Phan Rang harbor and hit a small convoy SW of Camranh Bay. The 20th Combat Mapping Squadron, 6th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, based at Dulag, ceases operating from Tacloban, Leyte with F-7s. The 68th Fighter Squadron, 347th Fighter Group, moves from Middelburg to San Jose Mindoro with P-38s. The 69th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 42d Bombardment Group (Medium), based at Sansapor begins operating from Morotai with B-25s.

SATURDAY, 24 FEBRUARY 1945

ALASKA (Eleventh Air Force): 4 B-25s on a shipping sweep attack the Hayakegawa River in the Kurile ; returning, the B-25s sight and photograph a Japanese bomb-carrying balloon.

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): 5 B-24s on individual sweeps over the S China Sea and Gulf of Tonkin claim 4 vessels sunk.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 38: In an all-incendiary attack, 105 of 116 B-29s hit the Empire Dock area at Singapore, Malayan States, burning out about 40 per cent of the warehouse area; 1 B-29 is lost; this is the last 100-aircraft strike by the XX Bomber Command. HQ 58th Bombardment Wing (Very Heavy) and HQ 468th Bombardment Group (Very Heavy) begin a movement from the Hijli Base Area and Kharagpur respectively to the Marianas. Japanese report: Penang and Singapore were attacked, one B-29 was smoked on left wing and was last seen heading to Malacca Strait, it will not make it.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 8 P-47s in close support of the ground forces near Lashio pound vehicle and a troop concentration; 12 B-25s and about 125 fighter-bombers strike against targets immediately behind the lines, hitting troops, supply areas, occupied towns and villages, vehicles, and general targets of opportunity. Transports complete 600 sorties carrying men and supplies to forward areas.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 28 B-24s from Angaur Airfield bomb Ising on Mindanao . 3 B-24s on armed reconnaissance from Guam bomb the airfield on Marcus in the N Pacific. During the night of 24/25 Feb, 5 B-24s out of Guam fly individual snooper strikes against the airfield on Chichi Jima and the town of Okimura on Haha Jima .

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: On Luzon, strikes in support of ground forces continue, especially W of Ft Stotsenburg; fighter-bombers attack forces holding out on Corregidor; B-24s bomb Sepinggaiig and Manggar Airfields. B-25s sweep off the China coast, bombing the naval base at Ryukyu-Sho, Formosa. The 20th Combat Mapping Squadron, 6th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, based at Dulag begins operating from San Jose with F-7s. The 390th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 42d Bombardment Group (Medium), based at Sansapor begins operating from Morotai with B-25s.

SUNDAY, 25 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 6 B-25s, supported by 5 P-40s, hit sampans and buildings in the Puchi area; 3 B-25s and 19 P-40s pound the Isuho ferry and attack river and road traffic from Siangtan to Hengyang; a single B-25 bombs truck convoys S of Hengyang; 4 B-24s over the Gulf of Tonkin and S China Sea claim damaging hits on 2 vessels; 44 P-51s and P-40s hit bridges, river shipping, troop areas, and motor transport at Kweiyi, Paoching, and Siangtan, from Lingling to Hengyang and Leiyang, from Anjen to Chaling, N of Liuchow, and W of Ishan.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): HQ 40th Bombardment Group (Very Heavy) begins a movement from Chakulia India to the Marianas.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, in joint operations with the British and Chinese army forces, 16 P-47s support the British 36 Division in the Mongmit sector while 31 P-47s support the Chinese 38th and 50th Divisions near Lashio and Namtu, respectively; a low B-25 strike knocks out a suspension bridge at Namsang; 9 B-25s and 85 fighter-bombers blast troop concentrations, supply areas, road traffic, and general targets of opportunity behind enemy lines. 600+ transport sorties are completed to forward areas.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): Lieutenant General Millard F Harmon, Commanding General AAFPOA and Deputy Commander of the Twentieth AF, is lost near Kwajalein in the Marshall when his aircraft disappears enroute to Washington DC. (On 2 Mar Major General Willis H Hale, AAFPOA deputy commander for operations, assumes Harmon's positions). 9 Guam -based B-24s hit blockhouses, and mortar and rocket-launching positions on the NW part of Iwo Jima ; 8 B-24s, flying separate harassment strikes, pound airfields on Chichi Jima during the night of 25/26 Feb. In Hawaii, HQ 508th Fighter Group and the 466th Fighter Squadron move from Kahuku to Mokuleia with P-47s.

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 38: 172 of 229 B-29s carry out a heavy raid on Tokyo and bomb the urban area of Tokyo; 29 others hit alternates and targets of opportunity; this is the XXI Bomber Command's largest mission to date and its first 3-wing strike against Japan as the the 73d and 313th Bombardment Wings (Very Heavy) are joined by the 314th; 3 B-29s are lost.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: In Formosa, B-24s bomb Takao and P-51s hit targets of opportunity along the E coast. B-24s attack troop concentrations on the E side of the Ipo River and pound Japanese positions between Ipo and Osboy. B-24s bomb Tawau and Labuan Airfields in Borneo. HQ 49th Fighter Group and the 7th Fighter Squadron move from San Jose to Lingayen Airfield with P-38s.

MONDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 20 B-25s, some with fighter escort, bomb Ishan, Luchai, Siangtan, and hit bridges at Chuchou and Loshan. In French Indochina, 9 B-25s attack bridges, railroad tracks, and heavy port equipment at Ha Trung, along the Chu R, and at Hongay and Haiphong. 70+ fighter-bombers on armed reconnaissance over S and E China and N French Indochina attack numerous targets of opportunity including airfields, town areas, and river, rail, and road traffic.

(Twentieth Air Force): HQ 462d Bombardment Group (Very Heavy) begins a movement from Piardoba, India to the Mariana Islands. Some B-29 bombers were assigned an unescorted photoreconnaissance mission to Singapore. A fighter shot down the B-29 bomber piloted by Capt. James Lyons. Shells from the Japanese plane set the nose section afire, seriously wounded the bombardier, and knocked out the number two engine. Bailing out over the sea when their left burning wing exploded, their approximate location was reported by another B-29 that was following them, air-sea rescue forces were notified, and 20 to 30 hours after the crew bailed out, 5 crews were rescued by a Catalina flying boat while with a good fortune another 4 were rescue by a British submarine HMS Seadog despite the danger of attack by Japanese surface ships. Another 3 crews were lost which included the wounded bombardier. Japanese report: Nine B-29s were badly damaged by our superior defense forces. (Only one B-29 bomber piloted by Capt. James Lyons was shot down, 9 were rescued and another 3 Missing In Action.)

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 12 P-47s support troops of the British 36 Division in the Mongmit area; 8 support the MARS Task Force, a composite Chinese-American force, in the Lashio sector while 16 others fly close support for Chinese 50th Division troops near Namhsam; 8 B-25s on low-level strikes knock out bypass bridges at Mong Pawn and Loi-leng; 80+ fighter-bombers and 4 B-25s continue to attack troops, supplies, road traffic, and other targets immediately behind lines. Again 600+ transport sorties are flown.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 9 B-24s sent from Guam against positions on Iwo Jima are recalled due to cloud cover; 8 B-24s hit Chichi Jima during the night of 26/27 Feb, flying individual harassment strikes. Lost with two Generals aboard: Harmon and Anderson is C-87 41-24174.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s over Formosa hit Takao Airfield while fighters on a sweep strafe railroad targets. B-24s bomb troop concentrations in the Ipo Dam area and support ground forces NE of Manila; A-20s and fighter-bombers support ground forces in the Echague Airfield area, at Ternate, Trinidad, and Antipolo, and hit troops W of Ft Stotsenburg. A-20s, P-38s, and P-47s hit Puerto Princesa and B-25s bomb Zettle Airfield. B-24s hit Manggar and Sepinggang Airfields. The 9th Fighter Squadron, 49th Fighter Group, moves from San Jose, Mindoro to Lingayen Airfield with P-38s and the 70th Fighter Squadron, 18th Fighter Group, moves from Lingayen Airfield to San Jose with P-38s. Lost on an administrative flight is B-24D "Beautiful Betsy" 42-40387.

TUESDAY, 27 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): 12 B-25s knock out 4 bridges and damage 2 others in N French Indochina. In China, 12 others bomb Ishan and Hwaiyuanchen; 4 B-24s over the Gulf of Tonkin and S China Sea attack shipping, claiming 2 vessels sunk; 19 fighter-bombers hit barracks SW of Ishan, 15 attack Kiungshan Airfield, 12 hit targets of opportunity in the Yoyang area, 23 hit targets of opportunity around Kiyang, and 30 others hit scattered targets of opportunity at other points in S and E China; the 22d Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 341st Bombardment Group (Medium), based at Yangkai with B-25s, sends a detachment to operate from Peishiyi; the 35th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron, Fourteenth AF, based at Chanyi with F-5s, sends a detachment to operate from Laohwangping (another detachment is operating from Chengkung).

HQ AAF (Twentieth Air Force): Mission 40: In the Malayan States during the night of 27/28 Feb, 10 of 12 B-29s mine Johore Strait on the E of Singapore and 1 mines Penang harbor. Personnel of the 58th Bombardment Wing (Very Heavy) begin shipping out of Calcutta, India for Tinian and Guam , implementing the redeployment orders of the 6 Feb War Department directive; the final shipment arrives in the the Mariana on 6 Jun, completing the transfer of the wing from
India without loss of a single life or aircraft.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 18 P-47s closely support ground forces in the Mongmit area; 4 others knock out a small bypass bridge at Hay-ti; about 100 fighter-bombers attack troop concentrations, supplies, gun positions, elephant transport, and road traffic along the battlefronts and behind enemy lines. Transport operations continue on a large-scale as 589 sorties are completed.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 9 Guam based B-24s blast pillboxes, artillery emplacements, blockhouse, and mortar positions on the N part of Iwo Jima. On Mindanao 22 B-24s from Angaur Airfield bomb Daliao and Libby Airfields. During the night of 27/28 Feb, 9 B-24s, flying snooper strikes out of Guam, bomb airfields, radio stations, and the town of Okimura on Haha Jima.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA: B-24s, A-20s, and P-38s strike Puerto Princesa in preparation for the following morning's allied amphibious landings. On Luzon , ground support continues on a largescale including a strike on Baguio by P-51s. On Mindanao P-38s and USMC aircraft hit airfields. B-24s bomb Tarakan and Jesselton Airfields. On Formosa, Takao is hit by B-24s while fighters sweep the W coast. Sweeping the China coast, B-25s hit a fleet of junks and sampans near Hong Kong destroying and damaging 25+. The 8th Fighter Squadron, 49th Fighter Group, moves from San Jose to Lingayen Airfield with P-38s and the 12th Fighter Squadron, 18th Fighter Group, moves from Lingayen Airfield to San Jose with P-38s. The 65th and 66th Troop Carrier Squadrons, 403d Troop Carrier Group, moves from Biak to Morotai  with C-46s and C-47s (the squadrons cease operating from Hill Field, Mindoro); and the 432d Fighter Squadron, 475th Fighter Group, moves from Dulag to Clark Field with P-38s (a detachment is operating from San Jose).

WEDNESDAY, 28 FEBRUARY 1945

CHINA THEATER (Fourteenth Air Force): In China, 2 B-25s attack targets of opportunity in the Hsiang River Valley while 2 P-51s hit targets of opportunity NE of Hengyang; a single B-24 damages a cargo vessel in the S China Sea; the 11th Bombardment Squadron (Medium), 341st Bombardment Group (Medium), based at Yangkai with B-25s, sends a detachment to operate from Laowhangpin.

INDIA-BURMA THEATER (Tenth Air Force): In Burma, 28 P-47s support forces of the British 36 Division in the Mongmit area; 75 fighter-bombers continueu pounding troop concentrations, supply dumps, and road traffic behind enemy lines. 552 transport sorties are flown, landing men and supplies at forward bases and dropping supplies to frontline troops.

AAFPOA (Seventh Air Force): 8 Guam based B-24s pound Susaki Airfield. 23 B-24s from Angaur Airfield bomb Sasa Airfield. During the night of 28 Feb/1 Mar, 6 B-24s from Guam, flying separate harassment strikes, bomb Susaki Airfield again. The ground echelon of the 548th Night Fighter Squadron, VII Fighter Command arrives on Iwo Jima from Hawaii (air echelon is operating from Saipan with P-61s).

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA [SWPA, Far East Air Force (FEAF)]: B-24s strike Sandakan and Labuan Airfields and B-25s fly a napalm raid against Sanga Sanga Airfield. 22nd BG B-24s bomb Caldera Point and B-25s hit San Roque Airfield. The 70th Troop Carrier Squadron, 433d Troop Carrier Group, moves from Hollandia to Dulag with C-46s and C-47s. The 431st and 433d Fighter Squadrons, 475th Fighter Group, move from Dulag to Clark Field with P-38s (they are operating from San Jose). The 530th Bombardment Squadron moves from Darwin, Australia to San Jose, Mindoro with B-24s. Lost is B-24J 42-109981.

Last Updated
October 19, 2009