The Battle Under: The Allies Fight Back

[tocaff]

May 5, 1944 Iwo Jima

Intel

10th Construction Battalion is located at Tsitsihar.
12th Army is planning for an attack on Chungking.
5th Army is located at Heiho.
19th Army is located at Tokyo.
2746 men are based at Toyama.
2441 men are based at Naha.
Nakajo-wan Fortress is located at Kadina.
16th Division is located at Legaspi.
290759 men are based at Osaka/Kobe.
5th AA Regiment is located at Niigata.
23rd Engineer Regiment is located at Inch'on.
12th Ind. Brigade is located at Ichang.
Bako Base Force is located at Pescadores.
5855 men are based at Takamatsu.

Recon

F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Dili 5 LCUs 8740/87/202
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 14160/73/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Palau 7 LCUs 25620/145/0
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 16 LCUs 36280/121/161
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Bangkok 26 fighters, 51 aux, 3 LCUs 1760/34/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Bandou vacant
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Lautem 2 X AP, 17 LCUs 47900/184/0

Combat

Tavoy underwent a bombing by 120 X Liberator VI (5 damaged), 48 X B-24J, 48 X B-29, 13 X Corsair IV and 12 X Spitfire VIII. The airfield was extremely heavily damaged, there were a few secondary explosions and casualties were moderate. The Japanese artillery continues to expend ammo for no results while an Allied assault made further inroads on the defenses, costing both sides very heavily.

Rahaeng had it's airfield lightly damaged by 41 X B-29.

Koepang's port was lightly damaged by 17 X B-24J, 1 damaged by flak. There were a couple of secondary explosions and light casualties.

Yap had very light damage to it's airstrip by 24 X P-39D and 14 X P-47D.

Port Moresby was raided by 45 X B-17E and 5 of the bombers were damaged by the AA. The airfield was moderately damaged, a couple of secondary explosions were reported and troop losses were heavy.

Lunga was swept by 24 X P-38J, but there was no opposition in the air.

The 5th New Chinese Corps was visited by 7 Helens and nobody was harmed.

Lautem was attacked by 126 X B-25J (2 downed, 24 damaged), 7 X P-38J, 4 X Kittyhawk III and 2 X P-40N. The port was moderately damaged, a very large number of secondary explosions were observed and casualties were heavy. Then 64 X P-38J, 9 X B-25J, 23 X Kittyhawk III and 15 X P-40N attacked the shipping and left 3 AKs heavily damaged and burning. Later it was reported that 2 of the AKs went under.

Bonin was struck by 24 X SBD, 16 X SB2C, 113 X TBF (4 damaged), 54 X TBM and 8 X F6F. The airfield was lightly damaged, the port moderately, there were many secondary explosions and casualties were light. Then another wave of planes arrived and the 32 X SB2C (3 damaged), 9 X TBF (4 damaged), 36 X TBM (9 damaged) and 16 X F6F added light damage to the airfield, port and caused a secondary explosion. Troop losses were very light.

At Iwo Jima the Allied forces had negligible casualties as the result of a Japanese bombardment. The Americans attacked and continued to compress the Japanese held pocket. Both sides had heavy losses.

The APD Crosby made it to Eniwetok and now they will try to stop the incoming water and pump her out. The situation is grave, at best.

Sam watches men returning from the front lines and is shocked at how they look. He then realizes that he must've looked the same way coming off the line. The rest that the 25th is getting is a welcome relief, but they know that they will be involved in the attack on Bonin as they were told today. When will it all end? First was Eniwetok, then Saipan, followed by Iwo and next Bonin. With each island the going is getting tougher and Sam wonders what the odds of surviving the war are. He's never felt so hopeless or helpless in all of his life and the only thing saving him is his responsibility to his squad.

Ed watches the departure of some of his Old Gals as they head towards Bonin to do their deadly work. The next day he'll release the second TF to add their weight to the mayhem. Soon the invasion will take place and then his ships will get a break. He's heard that the O'Bannon got shot up during the landings at Iwo and wonders how the ship made out. His thoughts turn to Bill and he wonders if the Helena is still pulling CVTF escort duty.

Stick has been flying CAPs over Ulithi and the Japanese haven't made an appearance. Soon enough he figures that the Flying Deuces will be pushed forwards again and sooner or later he'll see some air combat. 38 missions and still no kills, it's driving him batty.

Gunny and Slim discuss the next op for the 2nd Marines, Okinawa. Gunny has a map and Slim takes one look and says that it's going to be damned ugly. Gunny agrees and they change the subject.

FDR questions his staff as to the availability of ships to move on Shikka and is told that Bonin, Okinawa and the Philippines are the priority. Of course if all of the Navy's ships were undamaged and not in need of overhauls and upgrades the story would be different. Franklin wonders how the devil he can appease Stalin and still stick with the overall plan.

The Kremlin got an answer from Tokyo that stated that no orders have been issued to the formations in question to move. This doesn't sit well with Stalin and it puts him into an ugly mood. The room gradually empties as all want to avoid him when he gets like this.

The Russians attacked Sevastopol.

Victory Points Japanese 31765 Allied 29928

[tocaff]

May 6, 1944 The Bonins

Intel

31st Army is located at Manila.
54th Division is located at Okayama.
12th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Nagoya.
2nd Army is located at Legaspi.
5817 men are based at Aomori.
2nd Mountain Gun Regiment is planning for an attack on Kweiyang.
2nd RF Gun Battalion is planning for an attack on Kweiyang.
Southern Fleet is located at Kendari.
6th Field Artillery Regiment is planning for an attack on Chungking.
54th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Mutanchiang.
26th Aviation Unit is located at Truk.
46th Division is located at Rabaul.
4th Division is located at Rabaul.

Recon

PBM Mariner takes recon photos of Tokyo many ships, 39 LCUs
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Krung Thep vacant
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Dili 5 LCUs 9080/87/223
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 13860/58/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Palau 7 LCUs 29520/159/0
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Gili Gili 11 LCUs 12520/30/0

Combat

A naval bombardment of Bonin awakened the Japanese garrison and the drowsy Japanese gunners returned fire, hitting the BB Oklahoma 11 times, the CL Santa Fe with 5 shells and the DD Welles was burning from 3 hits. The island's airstrip was lightly damaged, the port moderately, there were many secondary explosions and troop losses were extremely heavy. Then 22 X SBD, 60 X SB2C (2 damaged), 121 X TBF (1 damaged), 97 X TBM (1 damaged) and 8 X F6F Hellcat appeared and they added light damage to the airfield, moderate damage to the port, many secondary explosions and moderate troop losses.

Koepang underwent a raid from 22 X B-24J (4 damaged) and the port was moderately damaged, there were many secondary explosions and personnel losses were moderate.

Lautem was bombed by 143 X B-24D. Flaked knocked a bomber down and damaged 16 others. The port was moderately damaged, there were lots of secondary explosions and casualties were very heavy.

Port Moresby's airfield was hit by 87 X B-24J and the AA fire damaged 6 of the planes. The airfield was heavily damaged, there were some secondary explosions seen and the troops suffered heavy losses.

The IJA 29th Ind. Mixed Brigade, in the Rahaeng area, was pounced on by 41 X Mosquito FB.VI, 2 of which were damaged by ground fire. Japanese casualties were moderate.

The 6th Chinese Air Base Force was raided by 10 Helens to no effect.

Marcus Island was visited by 8 X PB4Y, 2 of which were damaged, and they caused very light damage to the airfield, a single secondary explosion was reported and the personnel had very light losses.

A Japanese bombardment attack at Tavoy inflicted light Allied casualties. The Allied gunners replied and the Japanese sustained moderate losses.

At Iwo Jima the Japanese conducted a bombardment that caused moderate losses to the Allied troops. The Allied troops attacked again compressing the Japanese into an ever shrinking pocket. The Japanese suffered very heavy losses and the Allied forces had heavy casualties.

The SS Lionfish continues her struggle and is nearing Ulithi. She's still a few days out and her flooding is near critical.

Sam's platoon drew security duty for the battalion today and he led what's called a squad on patrol. There are all of 4 men fit for duty today. The walking wounded are returning to the unit, but they really aren't fit for duty and another man is down with the runs. After an uneventful patrol Sam and the men return and collapse, drink some water and ask about chow.

Phil continues to improve, but doctors are concerned with what they believe is damage to the nerves in the shoulder. The arm is not functional as Phil still has numbness in it. The good news is that the infection has gone thanks to the medicine that he got from the pharmacist mate. “Smart kid,” Phil tells the doctor who says that maybe medical school should be in the future for him.

Today marked the first day that an Allied plane flew over Japan. The PBM was on a recon mission of the Tokyo area and FDR has been informed of this significant moment in the war. “Soon we'll be sending bombers, lots of bombers,” he says upon reading the report. An aide informs him that the only operational B-29s are in the CBI and that soon new formations will be getting their planes and heading towards the war zone.

Gil sits on his bed taking some quiet time to reflect. He's all packed and ready to go, but he's torn about it. On the one hand he doesn't want to leave Elaine and the safety of Pittsburgh, while on the other he's acutely aware of his responsibility to the Lucky 11.

Victory Points Japanese 31748 Allied 29944

[tocaff]

May 7, 1944 Bonin

Intel

5th Air Fleet is located at Tokyo.
39950 men are based at Kanazawa.
51st Division is located at Wuchow.
49th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Mukden.
6th Army is located at Hailar.
4651 men are based at Wakkanai.
93850 men are based at Camranh Bay.
51st Division is located at Wuchow.
56th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Arshaan.
7th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Hailar.
46th Division is planning for an attack on Eniwetok.
120th IJNAF Base Force is located at Takamatsu.
248724 men are based at Sasebo.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Victoria Point 49 bombers, 36 aux, 4 LCUs 16120/110/1
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Pisanuloke vacant
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Dili 5 LCUs 9400/76/220
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 14480/49/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Palau 7 LCUs 32760/184/0
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Gili Gili 11 LCUs 28240/161/0
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Lunga 14 LCUs 12700/26/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kendari many ships, 1 aux, 6 LCUs 15560/133/44

Combat

A naval bombardment of Bonin kicked off another day of hell for the island's defenders. The airfield was moderately damaged, the port took light damage, there were many secondary explosions observed and personnel casualties were very heavy. As the warships continued to pound the island an air strike appeared and the 21 X SBD, 13 X SB2C, 112 X TBF (1 downed, 4 damaged), 61 X TBM (1 damaged) and 6 X F6F Hellcat added light damage to the airfield and port while causing a couple of secondary explosions and inflicted negligible casualties.

Yap was attacked by 24 X P-39D and 15 X P-47D who did very light damage to the airfield.

Port Moresby was raided by 39 X B-24D and the AA fire damaged 9 of them. The airfield was moderately damaged, a lone secondary explosion was seen and troop losses were moderate.

Lunga was attacked by 20 X B-24J and flak damaged 4 of them. The airfield was lightly damaged and personnel losses were very light.

The 5th New Chinese Corps had light casualties at the hands of 7 X Helen.

Lautem had it's port attacked by 71 X P-38J and though no facilities were damaged the bombing and strafing managed to cause some secondary explosions and heavy casualties.

Marcus Island was raided by 3 X PB4Y and 6 X Zeke jumped them. A Zeke was damaged and all of the bombers were also hit. No damage was done to the island.

At Tavoy the Japanese artillery caused very light Allied losses. A general assault on the Japanese saw both sides sustain extremely heavy losses. The Japanese defensive network was subjected to further damage though.

Iwo Jima witnessed a continuously fruitless Japanese bombardment of Allied positions. The Americans assaulted the Japanese troops and the former had extremely heavy losses while the later had very heavy casualties. The Japanese continue to stubbornly refuse to give an inch of ground without making their foes pay in blood.

The SS Lionfish is expected to make Ulithi tomorrow.

Ed's Old Gals have done well in their pounding of the Japanese defenses. He's especially pleased that the mine threat proved to have been virtually nonexistent. He and his staff begin turning their attention to future operations and the demands that they will place on his ships. They must also factor in the repairs and upgrading of these ships. There are commands requesting that they need some of the Old Gals, such as in Alaskan waters, but he's managed to resist so far. Some of his BBs are sitting at Wake as security for the flank of the supply lines.

Red and Cookie share a cup of coffee on the Palawan and discuss any future moves that they can make with their business. For the most part they agree that continued saving of their pay is the easiest thing to do as they have virtually nowhere to spend their money. Captain Demesa has invested a large sum of money in their plans and this has served to increase their flexibility for the future as repayment of their existing loans is easily covered. “As long as the war continues,” says Cookie, “There's not much we can do unless the Palawan gets sent somewhere behind the lines for a decent amount of time.” Red agrees and they turn to other subjects.

Gunny and Slim are itchy for something to do other than lazing around, but spacial constraints prevent almost all activities other than a little range time and calisthenics.

Gil has an emotional goodbye with Elaine and her family. He then leaves for the train station wondering what lies ahead for him.

A 1,500 plane raid on Berlin was made by the US 8th Air Force.

Victory Points Japanese 31659 Allied 29962

[tocaff]

May 8, 1944 Iwo Jima

Intel

2nd RF Gun Battalion is located at Nanning.
16th Naval Guard Unit is located at Ichang.
20th Army is located at Heiho.
67230 men are based at Mishan.
6428 men are based at Bangkok.
21st Reserve Engineer Regiment is located at Shimuzu.
23rd Mixed Brigade is located at Lunga.
3rd Mortar Battalion is located at Balikpapan.
38th Road Construction Battalion is located at Singapore.
43rd Ind. Mixed Brigade is located at Sapporo.
106th IJNAF Base Force is located at Niigata.
31st Army is located at Manila.
North Chishima Fortress is located at Paramushiro Jima.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kendari many ships 6 LCUs 24120/180/100
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Dili 5 LCUs 9380/86/225
PBM Mariner takes recon photos of Tori Shima vacant
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 13280/73/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Truk 1 X AG, 4 X AP, 4 X APD, 2 X AK, 1 X CA, 4 X PG, 1 X DE, 21 LCUs
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Gili Gili 11 LCUs 37180/221/4
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Lunga 15 LCUs 26580/91/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Ubon vacant
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Songkhia 1 LCU

Combat

Tavoy was attacked by 123 X Liberator VI (1 damaged), 45 X B-24J (1 damaged), 48 X B-29 and 14 X Corsair IV. They inflicted very heavy damage on the airfield, caused some secondary explosions and there were heavy personnel losses. Japanese artillery caused light Allied losses and the Allied guns did similar damage to the Japanese.

Rahaeng was raided by 93 X B-29 and flak damaged 3 of them. The airfield was lightly damaged, there were many secondary explosions and troop losses moderate.

Yap was struck by 24 X P-39D and 15 X P-47D for very light damage to the airstrip. Later 8 X B-24J came calling and they added very light damage to the airfield.

Kwajalein was swept by 63 X P-38J and they departed untested as the Japanese had nothing aloft. Another raid comprised of 11 X PB4Y, 18 X SB2C (3 damaged) and 21 X P-47D added very light damage to the port and airfield. A lone secondary explosion was claimed. Then 24 X PB4Y showed up and flak damaged 4 of them. The airfield was lightly damaged, a couple of secondary explosions were seen and 2 Bettys were destroyed. 3 more PB4Ys straggled in and AA damaged 2 of them as they added extremely light damage to the airfield.

Port Moresby was bombed by 33 X B-24D and the ground fire damaged 3. The airfield was lightly damaged.

Lunga was raided by 36 X B-24J and 4 were damaged by AA fire. They caused light damage to the airfield, a few secondary explosions, the demise of a Dinah and light casualties.

The 5th New Chinese Corps had moderate losses as 7 Helens unloaded on the unit.

20 X SBD, 65 X SB2C (1 damaged), 118 X TBF (1 damaged), 97 X TBM (2 damaged) and 7 X F6F raided Bonin and did moderate damage to the airfield and port, some secondary explosions were reported and troop losses were placed at moderate.

Marcus Island was attacked by 7 X PB4Y and 16 Zekes jumped them. 3 of the bombers were damaged, a Zeke was splashed and 2 others were shot up. Very light damage was done to the airfield.

Iwo Jima saw the Japanese continue to lob mortar and artillery at the Allied forces to no effect. The Americans attacked again and inflicted very heavy losses on the Japanese at a similar cost to themselves.

The SS Lionfish has docked at Ulithi, ahead of schedule, and work parties immediately begin the process of pumping her out.

Sam relaxes, having a smoke when a couple of artillery rounds land not to far away. He barely even reacted as he sensed that he was OK where he was. Then he notices a speck in the sky that is getting larger and larger. It turns out to be a Japanese plane that is snooping around. He wonders where the Corsairs and Lightnings are when you need them.

Plans are being made for the 2nd Marines, who will conduct some quick grab actions of vacant or lightly defended bases. “The intel had better be good or we'll be getting a bloody nose,” one officer says at the briefing. These attacks are scheduled to commence sometime in July.

Stalin is pleased that the Japanese troops in question were pulled back as demanded. “See they are afraid of us,” he says to his gathered generals.

Eisenhower decides on June 5th for D-Day.

Rudolf Hess returned to Auschwitz, ordered by Himmler to oversee the extermination of Hungarian Jews.

Victory Points Japanese 31797 Allied 30183

[tocaff]

May 9, 1944 The Bonins

Intel

Chichijima Fortress is located at Niigata.
9th Ind. Brigade is located at Changsha.
2nd Coastal Gun Regiment is located at Lunga.
62nd Naval Guard Unit is located at Buna.
4th South Seas Det. is planning for an attack on Wake Island.
9th Ind. Brigade is located at Changsha.
19th Army is located at Tokyo.
3rd Construction Battalion is located at Ichang.
18th Reserve Coastal Artillery Regiment is located at Toyama.
1st Amphibious Brigade is planning for an attack on Wake Island.
23rd Tank Regiment is located at Chiamussu.
49th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Mukden.
19th Army is located at Tokyo.
7th Division is located at Sapporo.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kendari many ships, 3 aux, 7 LCUs 32920/320/67
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Dili 5 LCUs 9680/82/203
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 14580/52/0
PB2Y Coronado takes recon photos of Marcus Island 3 X AP, 2 X AK, 1 X APD, 2 X CA, 1 X DD, 1 X DE, 12 LCUs 31800/152/1
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Truk many ships, 21 fighters, 51 bombers, 80 aux, 21 LCUs
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Gili Gili 11 LCUs 47460/353/6
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Lunga 15 LCUs 25360/88/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Hanoi 24 bombers, 3 aux, 3 LCUs 2140/10/0

Combat

A Dauntless has spotted the Meiryu Maru near Marcus Island and claimed to have hit it. The Allied TF 28 miles to the SE attacked Japanese shipping with a TBM and a Hellcat. 25 Zekes attacked them, downing the torpedo bomber. To make matters worse an SBD and a Hellcat showed up later, but they got through and a PG was hit and was burning. Why these poor excuses for raids? A Dauntless and 2 X F6F fought their way through the CAP of 25 X Zeke, downing 1 of them, but the AK was missed. Another attack by a TBM and 2 Hellcats was met by 23 Zekes and 8 were destroyed, though the AK was missed. These attacks are a source of frustration and mystery as the ships have full air complements and very experienced squadrons that aren't tired, have high morale and decent weather.

Andaman Island was attacked by 40 X B-29 and the AA fire damaged 1 of them. The airfield was moderately damaged and a secondary explosion was claimed.

Jaluit had it's port hit by 47 X B-25J and 56 X P-38J for light damage and a couple of secondary explosions.

Buna was bombed by 45 X B-24J, 2 of which were damaged. The port was missed, but there were a couple of secondary explosions and troop losses were very light.

The IJA 49th Division, defending Tavoy, was pounced on by 108 X P-38J, 34 X Thunderbolt II and 7 X Spitfire VIII. A Lightning went down and 7 others were damaged and 3 Thunderbolts were also hit. The unit sustained very heavy casualties. Japanese artillery made lots of noise, but failed to do any damage. The Allied big guns managed to inflict light losses on the Japanese. The 44th Indian Division was attacked by 11 X Frances and had light casualties.

The IJA 47th Ind. Mixed Brigade, at Iwo Jima, was struck by 64 X P-38J, 7 X B-25J and 15 X F4U-1 for moderate losses. The Japanese caused no Allied casualties with an artillery barrage. Then the Allied attack resulted in heavy losses to both sides.

The 103rd IJNAF Base Force, at Yap, was ineffectively attacked by 21 Airacobra and 13 Thunderbolts. Then the airstrip was attacked by 12 X SB2C and 14 X P-47D for very light damage.

The New Chinese Corps had light casualties as a result of the raid made by 6 X Helen.

Bonin was hit by 24 X SBD (1 damaged), 68 X SB2C (2 damaged), 122 X TBF (3 damaged), 98 X TBM (1 Damaged and 8 F6F. The airfield was moderately damaged, the port lightly, there were many secondary explosions and troop losses were very light.

Kwajalein was attacked by 2 X SB2C and a large secondary explosion was seen.

Gil sits on a well worn seat in the dirty passenger car of the train taking him westwards, to his future. He snores loudly, much to the annoyance of the people near him.

The attack on Bonin will commence as soon as the Japanese resistance on Iwo is finally snuffed out. In the meantime Ed holds some meetings with his captains and they discuss everything from the war to baseball. Knowing that the IJN seems to be in hiding sits well with them, though they wouldn't mind a crack at it with their big guns.

Sam's squad got 2 replacements today and he's been busy getting them into the swing of things. The kid is totally green and the other has seen combat. Not to bad he thinks to himself.

The Red Army took Sevastopol.

Air raids on airfields and rail lines in France began today for D-Day.

Victory Points Japanese 31764 Allied 30301

[tocaff]

May 10, 1944 Burma

Intel

20th Army is located at Heiho.
4th Air Division is located at Koepang.
5th RF Gun Battalion is located at Sian.
10th Area Army is located at Chengting.
23rd Army is located at Nanning.
15th AA Regiment is located at Nagoya.
43rd Construction Battalion is planning for an attack on Broome.
16th Aviation Rgt is located at Wuhan.
11th Army is planning for an attack on Chungking.
39th Division is located at Sining.
7th Construction Battalion is located at Sining.
16th AA Regiment is located at Soerabaja.
Peng Hu Fortress is located at Pescadores.
8th Reserve AA Regiment is located at Davao.
Radio transmissions detected at Vancouver.

Recon

F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Hue vacant
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kendari many ships, 7 LCUs 36040/309/87
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Dili 5 LCUs 9120/73/188
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 14680/62/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Truk many ships, 28 fighters, 59 bombers, 106 aux, 21 LCUs
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Gili Gili 11 LCUs 53920/447/14
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tulagi 7 LCUs 4680/27/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Nanning 20 fighters, 14 bombers, 29 aux, 32 LCUs

Combat

The SS Manta, 83 miles NE of Marcus Island, put 3 torpedoes into a lone AK which succumbed quickly to her catastrophic damage.

Victoria Point was bombed by 37 X B-29. The flak damaged 1 of the big silver birds and they dished out moderate damage to the airfield, caused a few secondary explosions, destroyed 4 X Sonia and 7 X Frances and there were light casualties.

Andaman Island was hit by 37 X B-29 and 1 was damaged as they inflicted light damage to the airfield, some secondary explosions and a destroyed Dinah.

Kai Island had it's airfield moderately damaged, there were many secondary explosions and light personnel losses. The raid was made by 122 X B-25 J (12 damaged), 17 X Kittyhawk III and 16 X P-40N.

Port Moresby was attacked by 48 X B-24J (8 damaged). The airfield was moderately damaged, a single secondary explosion was seen and troop losses were light.

The IJA 48th Ind. Mixed Brigade, at Iwo Jima, was pounced on by 8 X B-25J, 17 X F4U-1 and 64 X P-38J. Japanese casualties were light. The Allied effort to purge the island of organized Japanese resistance continued today with an attack that further squeezed the defenders while inflicting very heavy casualties on them at a cost of heavy American losses.

At Rahaeng the IJA 29th Ind. Mixed Brigade was attacked by 127 X P-38J (3 damaged), 43 X Thunderbolt II (5 damaged) and 10 X Spitfire III. The unit sustained very heavy casualties. Minutes after the attack ended another strike came in on the 29th. 101 X Liberator VI (1 destroyed, 4 damaged), 24 X P-38J Lightning, 57 X B-25J Mitchell (1 downed, 4 damaged), 31 X B-24J (1 destroyed, 1 damaged), 64 X Thunderbolt II and 13 X Corsair IV caused very heavy losses to the Japanese. Another wave of planes appeared in the afternoon and the attack on 29th Ind. Mixed Brigade was made up of 42 X Mosquito FB.VI, of which 3 were damaged. The Japanese losses were moderate.

At Yap the 103rd IJNAF Base Force was struck by 21 X P-39D and 13 X P-47D for very light losses. Later 13 X SB2C and 15 X P-47D then did very light damage to the airfield and a lone secondary explosion was triggered.

The 5th New Chinese Corps was futilely attacked by 4 Helens. It is becoming increasingly difficult for the Japanese to inflict casualties on the Chinese as there is virtually nobody left in the unit.

Bonin was attacked by 23 X SBD, 67 X SB2C (3 damaged), 121 X TBF (2 damaged), 90 X TBM (1 damaged) and 8 X F6F. The airfield was moderately damaged, the port lightly, a few secondary explosions were reported and troop casualties were very light.

Kwajalein was raided by 21 X SB2C, of which 2 were shot down and 2 others damaged. The Japanese had very light losses.

Tavoy continued to be the scene of artillery exchanges with the Allies sustaining moderate casualties and the Japanese similar losses.

Phil has been relieved of his command and he also got a commendation for his actions in saving his ship. Frank has assumed command of the O'Bannon. Phil's job for now is to obey the doctors who have decided that surgery to repair the damage to Phil's right shoulder is the best course of action.

Bill writes another letter to Sandy. He is beginning to sense that he needs a rest from the pressures of command. His best hope continues to be an overdue upgrade to the Helena finally gets done, giving all aboard a well deserved rest.

Elaine wonders how Gil is and where he is. When he left he told her that it would be a while before he could contact her. She wonders if this meant a letter or by telephone. She worries about him and not knowing anything makes it worse.

The Free French claimed they are 100,00 strong and pleaded for more military aid.

Victory Points Japanese 31863 Allied 30340

[tocaff]

May 11, 1944 Tavoy

Intel

220667 men are based at Ominato.
Chichijima Fortress is located at Niigata.
Yosu Fortress is located at Masan.
52nd Road Construction Battalion is located at Sining.
46th Division is planning for an attack on Eniwetok.
North China Area Army is located at Nanning.
14746 men are based at Toyohara.
17679 men are based at Shikka.
Tokyo Bay Fortress is located at Tokyo.
6th Reserve AA Regiment is located at Wonsan.
1st Amphibious Brigade is located at Paramushiro Jima.
12th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Nagoya.
25th AA Regiment is located at Nagato.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Hengchow 1 LCU 3600/40/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Bangkok 70 fighters, 76 aux, 3 LCUs 5220/45/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kendari many ships, 7 LCUs 33900/347/91
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Koepang 1 X SS, 8 LCUs 29780/70/0
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 13680/59/0
PB2Y Coronado takes recon photos of Marcus Island 1 X DE, 11 LCUs 23100/50/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Truk many ships, 23 fighters, 60 bombers, 116 aux, 21 LCUs
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Gili Gili 11 LCUs 62880/484/10
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tulagi 7 LCUs 6600/38/0

Combat

A Jill attacked the SS Bashaw 79 miles N of Tori Shima, but thanks to the sub's radar she was able to dive fast and deep enough to avoid damage.

3 PGs and a PC encountered a mine field at Johore Bahru when one of the PCs struck one. The vessel went down quickly.

The SS Taurus, 15 miles SE of Medan, tried to attack a DD, but failed. It appeared that the ship was previously damaged.

Victoria Point was raided by 42 X B-29 and they were met by 2 X Zeke. The big bombers managed to fight their way through and cause light damage to the airfield, destroying a Frances and light troop losses while downing 2 Zekes and damaging 5 others. 6 of the silver birds went down and 17 others were damaged in the attack.

Lautem was hit by 71 Lightnings and 12 were damaged by the ground fire as they inflicted light casualties on the personnel. Almost immediately following the P-38s were 33 X B-24J who did moderate damage to the airfield, caused many secondary explosions, destroyed a Dinah and there were heavy Japanese casualties. 4 Liberators were damaged.

Port Moresby's airfield was heavily damaged by 48 X B-17E. Flak damaged 2 or the Flying Forts and a couple of secondary explosions were claimed while troop losses were thought to have been heavy.

The IJA 47th Ind. Mixed Brigade, on Iwo, was struck by 14 X SB2C, 11 X B-25J and 18 X F4U-1 Corsair for moderate losses. The Allied attack caused very heavy Japanese casualties while the attackers had heavy losses.

The IJA 29th Ind. Mixed Brigade, at Rahaeng, was attacked by 121 X P-38J (4 damaged), 38 X Thunderbolt II (1 damaged) and 8 X Spitfire VIII for very heavy casualties. Another strike of 107 X Liberator VI (1 downed, 6 damaged), 24 X P-38J, 54 X B-25J (5 damaged), 41 X B-24J (1 destroyed, 1 damaged), 61 X Thunderbolt II (2 damaged) and 13 X Corsair IV then hit the same unit and heaped on very heavy casualties. Finally anther attack was made on the 29th by 38 X Mosquito FB.VI, of which 2 were damaged and losses to the Japanese were light.

On Yap the 103rd IJNAF Base Force was attacked by 21 X P-39D and 13 X P-47D. Both sides escaped damage. Later 11 X SB2C and 14 X P-47D caused very light damage to the airfield.

The 5th New Chinese Corps had moderate losses as 6 Helens bombed the unit.

Bonin was targeted by 24 X SBD, 68 X SB2C (4 damaged), 120 X TBF (2 damaged), 98 X TBM (2 damaged) and 8 X F6F. The airfield was moderately damaged, the port lightly, there were some secondary explosions and losses were heavy to the personnel.

Kwajalein was attacked by 15 Helldivers and 7 of them were damaged by AA while the Japanese had extremely light casualties.

At Tavoy Japanese artillery inflicted moderate losses on the Allied troops and the Allied guns replied causing likewise to the Japanese.

Rahaeng was attacked by Allied troops who effected a river crossing. The Japanese fortifications were breached and they had extremely heavy casualties while the Allied troops had very heavy losses.

Gil is having a cup of coffee and a doughnut at a USO stand on the train platform waiting for it to depart. He thinks that he needs a shower even more than food, but he'll take whatever he can. He gave a boy a quarter to take a letter to the Post Office and mail it for him. Elaine will be happy to get something.

Tomorrow Phil will go under the knife. He's nervous about it and a nurse teases him about being afraid of a doctor and not the Japanese Navy. He smiles at her and says that, “With the Japs I can fight back.”

Ed's staff took a needed break today and spent some time having a few drinks, playing cards or just vegetating. He knows that they've been under a lot of stress lately and this'll be good for them. He is having a hard time relaxing and look with longing at a bottle of whiskey. He won't allow himself to have one as he remembers his condition at the start of the war.

The 2nd Marine Division has begun drills using APDs for landings. Gunny and Slim give each other knowing looks and nods. They will be in action sooner than later after all.

The Gustav Line was pounded by 2,200 guns of the Americans and British.

Victory Points Japanese 31861 Allied 30360

[tocaff]

May 12, 1944 Near Davao

Intel

15897 men are based at Nagaoka.
4308 men are based at Kyoto.
1st Reserve AA Regiment is located at Kyoto.
15th Construction Battalion is located at Tawi Tawi.
1st Air Division is located at Ichang.
5819 men are based at Aomori.
Burma Area Army is planning for an attack on Mandalay.
14th Army is located at Tokyo.
226 ships are based at Tokyo.
17th Reserve Coastal Artillery Regiment is located at Niigata.
4th Base Force is planning for an attack on Cooktown.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Ichang 49 fighters, 41 aux, 13 LCUs 59540/435/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Victoria Point 1 bomber, 9 aux, 4 LCUs 15600/104/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kendari many ships, 7 LCUs 34740/366/86
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Koepang 1 X SS, 8 LCUs 31740/74/0
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 13560/55/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Truk many ships, 24 fighters, 65 bombers, 100 aux, 21 LCUs
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Buna 7 LCUs 33400/337/11
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tulagi 7 LCUs 8840/53/0

Combat

A Jill attacked the SS Bashaw, but the sub escaped thanks to the radar giving enough warning for them to dive.

A Helldiver attacked a Japanese sub and claimed to have hit it.

Near Eniwetok a Japanese sub tried and failed to attack the DM Tracy which was laying mines at the time.

The SS Balao, 20 miles SE of Davao, tracked and attacked an AK being escorted by a PG. 2 fish hit the AK setting fires and doing very heavy damage. In the afternoon the sub spotted an AK being escorted by 6 PGs. She attacked and hit the AK with 2 torpedoes and made good her escape unharmed. It was an excellent day for the Balao with 2 sinkings and no harm done to her.

Lautem had very light losses from marauding 54 X P-38J. The AA knocked 1 plane down and damaged 3.

Palau was bombed by 33 X B-24J and flak damaged 8 of them. Damage to the airfield was moderate, there were many secondary explosions and personnel losses were moderate.

The IJA 49th Division at Tavoy was attacked by 92 X Liberator VI (7 damaged), 29 X B-24J, 44 X B-25J (3 damaged), 24 X P-38J (1 damaged), 60 X Thunderbolt II (2 damaged) and 15 X Corsair IV. The unit sustained very heavy casualties. The 26th Indian Division was attacked by 16 Zekes and 18 Georges. 3 Spitfire VIIIs were on hand and 3 Zekes went down. The Allied had no losses. Japanese artillery inflicted moderate losses on the Allied troops and the Japanese had moderate casualties due to the Allied artillery.

The IJA 48th Ind. Mixed Brigade, still hanging on at Iwo was jumped by 8 X B-25J, 14 X SB2C, 36 X P-38J and 19 X F4U-1 and it had light losses.

On Yap the 103rd IJNAF Base Force was attacked by 20 Airacobras and 13 Thunderbolts. Nobody had any losses. Then 13 X SB2C and 13 X P-47D did very light damage to the airfield.

In the Rahaeng area the 146 IJA Base Force, was attacked by 38 X Thunderbolt II (2 damaged, 117 X P-38J and 9 X Spitfire VIII. The Japanese suffered very heavy casualties. Then 38 X Mosquito FB.VI appeared and added moderate losses to the toll. The 18th UK Division was bombed by 31 Helens (1 damaged) and the British unit sustained moderate casualties.

The 5th New Chinese Corps was visited by 4 Helens, who did no damage to the shredded shell of a Chinese unit.

Bonin was raided by 23 X SBD, 67 X SB2C (2 damaged), 121 X TBF, 98 X TBM (1 damaged) and 8 X F6F. The airfield and port were lightly damaged, there were many reported secondary explosions and casualties were light.

At Iwo Jima 14 SB2Cs, 8 B-25Js, 36 P-38Js and 19 F4U-1s hit the 48th Ind. Mixed Brigade for light casualties and later an Allied attack caused very heavy Japanese losses while the attackers had heavy casualties.

The Palawan starts loading supplies for Eniwetok. Red takes Lucky for a walk and is amazed at how often some soldiers tell him that he can't go somewhere because there are still some stray Japanese soldiers who fight on rather than surrender. “Do you think that's it's safe where I go on the tub I serve on?” His reply just gets a laugh and he's told that only people Stateside are safe.

Rolling along, bored out of his mind, tired, dirty and hungry Gil sits in his seat staring out of the window as endless wheat fields roll by. A guy nearby says, “Look at that, not even a hill in site.” Gil can't imagine living in a place like this. Brooklyn had Brighton Beach and Pittsburgh in spite of having no ocean nearby does have the mountains. This is so boring and he shuts his eyes and thinks of Elaine as he drifts off to sleep.

Gene is waiting to weld the plates back in place on the ship's side when his shift ends. The guy taking over for him says, “Don't worry I'll do it when they finish.” Later that night his uncle comes to the house and he asks Gene how the welding job went. “I never did it,” he replied. His uncle is shocked and says that they had better get right to it first thing in the morning because the ship is scheduled to sail tomorrow afternoon.

Sam is enjoying the rest, though the sound of artillery does unsettle him. “At least the guns are ours,” one of the guys says.

36,000 German POWs were taken in the Crimea.

800 bombers attacked the synthetic fuel plants at Leuna-Merseburg, Lutzkendorf, Zeita and Brux.

The Germans counter attacked at Monte Cassino.

Victory Points Japanese 31896 Allied 30387

[tocaff]

May 13, 1944 Rahaeng

Intel

3rd Construction Battalion is located at Ichang.
2nd Mixed Regiment is located at Hangchow.
1st Heavy AA Battalion is located at Tokyo.
18th Reserve Coastal Artillery Regiment is located at Toyama.
13th Tank Regiment is located at Changsha.
51st Division is located at Wuchow.
57th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Changkufeng.
11th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Osaka/Kobe.
1st Division is located at Harbin.
16th AA Regiment is located at Soerabaja.
22439 men are based at Okayama.
15898 men are based at Nagaoka.
Radio transmissions detected at Vancouver.
Radio transmissions detected at Prince Rupert.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kendari many ships, 7 LCUs 36940/350/86
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Koepang 1 X SS, 8 LCUs, 33940/66/0
SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 13380/53/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Truk some ships, 19 fighters, 63 bombers, 109 aux, 20 LCUs
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 14 LCUs 14320/33/0
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tulagi 7 LCUs 10580/60/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Victoria Point 4 LCUs 16960/113/0

Combat

The SS Thresher, 78 miles NE of Wenchow, tried and failed to attack 4 PCs.

The SS Flounder, 14 miles SW of Manila, was attacked by 2 PGs and 2 PCs, but she managed to escape. A few hours later another ASW attack was thrown at her by what was presumed to have been the same vessels.

The SS Picuda, 71 miles E of Davao, spotted a lone AK at hit it with a torpedo. She later spotted another AK on it's own and struck it with 3 fish, putting it in her log as a confirmed sinking.

Rahaeng was raided by 35 X B-29 who did light damage to the airfield, caused a few secondary explosions and personnel losses were moderate. The IJA 29th Ind. Mixed Brigade was jumped by 115 X P-38J (1 damaged), 36 X Thunderbolt II and 9 X Spitfire VII who inflicted heavy losses on the unit. The 18th UK Division was bombed by 31 X Helen (2 damaged) and had very light losses. The Allied forces attacked and swept aside the Japanese defenders, taking the base. The Japanese had very heavy losses and the Allies had light casualties. The Japanese troops retreated towards Krung Thep, Allied troops will pursue.

Lautem was bombed by 33 X B-24D and the AA fire damaged 6 of them. They caused light damage to the airfield, a couple of secondary explosions and moderately heavy casualties.

The IJA 48th Ind. Mixed Brigade, on Iwo, was attacked by 6 X B-25J, 2 X SB2C, 3 X P-38J and 2 X F4U-1. There were no losses for either side. An Allied attack caused very heavy losses to the Japanese and heavy casualties for the Americans in their continuing effort to rid the island of all resistance.

The 5th New Chinese Corps was hit by 6 Helens and both sides had no casualties.

Bonin was bombed by 24 X SBD (1 damaged), 65 X SB2C, 121 X TBF (2 downed, 3 damaged), 97 X TBM (1 damaged) and 8 X F6F. The airfield and port were lightly damaged, there were some secondary explosions and casualties were moderate.

At Yap the airstrip had light damage and a single secondary explosion when it was attacked by 13 X SB2C and 12 X P-47D.

At Tavoy Japanese artillery inflicted light losses on the Allied troops. A short time after the barrage lifted the Allies attacked and further damaged the area's defenses. Both sides had extremely heavy casualties.

With the fall of Rahaeng Allied commanders expect the defense of Tavoy to cease and the Japanese to pull back to more defensible positions now that their flank and possibly their rear is exposed.

Stalin proposes to Tokyo that in order to prevent accidental confrontations a straightening of the border between the 2 powers be undertaken. He proposes that the Japanese withdraw their troops from Heiho. The area would still be under Japanese control, but the chance of an accidental confrontation would be removed. He also set forth the desire that all Japanese troops be pulled back to a point no closer than 60 miles from the border. An exception of Hungnam would be allowed. This would go far to preserve the peace between the 2 countries. In effect it would be a demilitarization of Heiho, which the Soviets view as not defensible by the Japanese anyway.

Gene and his uncle arrive at the yard and head for the ship to weld the missing plates back on. They arrive at the dry dock only to find it gone. They ask and are told that the schedule was pushed forward as there is so much work to be done. They ask some of the other workers and they all say that they don't think anybody took care of the hole in the ship's side. The only thing they can do is tell their boss and he explodes and threatens to fire every one who worked on the ship. Of course he can't spare anybody so nothing happens other than the ship returns that afternoon for a quick welding job. When the day ends Gene and his uncle head to the local watering hole and tie one on.

Phil is still groggy from the pain medication that they give him so he doesn't know what the doctor is trying to tell him. Finally a nurse tells the doctor that when Phil is lucid she'll relay the good news. Good news, what news? Phil then falls back to sleep.

The Allies took Sant'Angelo and Castelforte, opening the way to Rome.

The deportation of Hungarian Jews to Auschwitz began.

Victory Points Japanese 31771 Allied 30452

[tocaff]

May 14, 1944 Iwo Jima

Intel

18th Army is located at Buna.
5908 men are based at Niigata.
1st Guards Mixed Brigade is located at Tokyo.
5th AA Regiment is located at Niigata.
11th Ind. Mixed Regiment is planning for an attack on Wake Island.
3rd Ind. Brigade is planning for an attack on Chungking.
6th Army is located at Hailar.
5846 men are based at Takamatsu.
4650 men are based at Wakkanai.
34269 men are based at Paramushiro Jima.
20632 men are based at Tinian.

Recon

F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Victoria Point 2 bombers, 10 aux, 3 LCUs 8800/15/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Maumere 1 X AK, 1 LCU 1260/1/0
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 14 LCUs 28320/44/71
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tulagi 7 LCUs 10260/46/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Truk many ships, 28 fighters, 62 bombers, 117 aux, 20 LCUs


Combat

The SS Picuda, 80 miles S of Davao, was being hunted by 6 PGs when 1 of the vessels presented itself as a target the sub couldn't resist. A torpedo slammed into the PG and Picuda slipped away in the confusion.

On Iwo Jima the IJA 47th Ind. Mixed Brigade was struck by 11 X B-25J, 14 X SB2C, 36 X P-38J and 23 X F4U-1 for light losses. Another big push to rid the island of the Japanese was made and it resulted in extremely heavy Japanese casualties and heavy Allied losses.

The 103rd IJNAF Base Force, at Yap had light casualties from an attack made by 21 P-39D and 13 X F4U-1D. 13 X SB2C and 15 X F4U-1D attacked later in the day and inflicted very light losses on the Japanese.

The 5th New Chinese Corps is slowly withering on the vine, out of supplies, suffering desertions, led by incompetent officers who steal what little they have left and the daily visits from the Japanese planes. 6 Helens attacked today, but hit nothing of value.

The 44th Indian Division, at Tavoy, was attacked by 34 X Zeke and 38 X George. There were 41 X P-38J on hand to provide a warm welcome and they destroyed 23 Zekes and 19 Georges while having 2 Lightnings damaged. Of course the unit had something to cheer about. Japanese artillery caused very light casualties on the Allied troops and the Allied big guns had similar results for their efforts.

Stalin is pleased that the Japanese have agreed to his demands. “We can continue to push them until they say no and then it will be war,” he tells his assembled generals. “We made bloodless gains because they are afraid to fight us again and with their war against the Americans going poorly for them they won't have the resources for continued fighting. Continue to make plans for a general attack and keep it updated.”

Pete and Sylvia visited the doctor today and he said things looked like the baby will be arriving sooner than expected. When they questioned this he told them what signs to watch for and Jac, who was with them, rolled her eyes and said, “You went to university to learn that?” They all shared the laugh, though the doctor looked a little sheepish.

Stick can't figure out what kind of curse is on him as the Flying Deuces have been credited with 24 kills, 2LT Glass is an ace with 6 kills and he still hasn't even seen a Japanese plane to shoot at since way back when.

Sam led another patrol today and they lost a man to a sniper. “If this is a rear area and it's secure then somebody ought to tell whoever is in charge to take a look around,” one of the guys says as they return to their area.

Victory Points Japanese 31889 Allied 30526

[tocaff]

May 15, 1944 The Bonins

Intel

14th Army is located at Tokyo.
68th Division is located at Sian.
46th Division is planning for an attack on Eniwetok.
39955 men are based at Kanazawa.
1832 men are based at Hungnam.
34th Division is located at Nanning.
Arshan Garrison Regiment is located at Arshaan.
7th AF Construction Battalion is located at Soerabaja.
Home Defense Force is located at Tokyo.
Hensui Construction Battalion is located at Sasebo.
44th Heavy AA Battalion is located at Soerabaja.
81st Division is located at Tokyo.
31st Army is located at Manila.

Recon

SOC-3 Seagull takes recon photos of Bonin 4 LCUs 12920/66/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Satawal vacant
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 13 LCUs 25880/42/162
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tulagi 7 LCUs 12820/62/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Changsha 6 LCUs 1020/40/58
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Krung Thep vacant
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Waingapu vacant

Combat

A PB4Y Liberator attacked a sub near Eniwetok and reported a hit.

The SS Hammerhead, 18 miles NE of Menado, attacked a PG and killed it with 3 torpedo hits.

Palau was bombed by 30 X B-24J and flak damaged 15 of them. The airfield was lightly damaged, there were some secondary explosions and personnel losses were very light.

Port Moresby's airfield was raided by 11 X B-17E and was lightly damaged. There were light troop losses also.

Lunga was swept by 24 X P-38J but nobody was home. While the fighters were milling about 36 X B-24J appeared and the AA knocked 1 down and damaged 12 more of the bombers. The airfield was lightly damaged, there were a couple of secondary explosions and casualties were light.

The IJA 48th Ind. Mixed Brigade at Iwo was attacked by 8 X B-25J, 16 X SB2C, 42 X P-38J and 27 X F4U-1 and the unit had light losses. An Allied assault compressed the area held by the Japanese while inflicted very heavy losses on them. Allied casualties were heavy. Still the Japanese fight on.

On Yap 103rd IJNAF Base Force was the target of 20 X P-39D and 9 X P-47D. Nobody had any losses from the attack. Then 12 X SB2C, 9 X P-47D and 9 X F4U-1D came in and did light damage to the airfield.

The 5th New Chinese Corps, at 43,23 had light casualties from a visit made by 6 Helens.

Bonin was attacked by 27 X SBD, 75 X SB2C (3 damaged), 96 X TBF (3 damaged), 41 X TBM and 9 X F6F. Damage to the airfield was light, the port was hit for moderate damage, there were some secondary explosions and casualties were moderate.

At Tavoy Japanese artillery dished out light losses and the Allied guns responded by causing heavy casualties.

Ed sailed with the Old Gals from Saipan, bound for Bonin and a pre invasion bombardment. Knowing that there are no mines around the island and that planes have been attacking for days comforts him. He still won't allow the escorts to close and add their guns to the bombardments as they have little to protect them from the Japanese gunners who are sure to be lurking.

Invasion ships sailed from Guam for Ulithi, where they will load troops to invade Yap.

The 25th Division has been put on standby as they are the reserve for the Bonin operation. “Out of the frying pan and into the fire we go again. You don't think for a minute that the Army could take an island without our help,” says Sam.

Gil is making good time and will be nearing his destination tomorrow. As he nears a return to the base his anticipation of being with the guys of the Lucky 11 grows. Of course at the same time he misses Elaine. He pulls a picture of her that she gave him and stares at it. From over his shoulder comes a wolf whistle and, “Wow! What a dish.” A soldier has taken the time out of his boring trip to share the view with Gil, who feels invaded. He tells the guy to cool off and stop drooling on his girl's picture.

Victory Points Japanese 31900 Allied 30544

[tocaff]

May 16, 1944 Moscow

Intel

47330 men are based at Sunwu.
Palau Coastal Gun Regiment is located at Palau.
16th Division is located at Legaspi.
12th Construction Battalion is located at Batan Island.
6023 men are based at Arshaan.
28938 men are based at Tsitsihar.
278492 men are based at Changkufeng.
54th Division is located at Okayama.
Nagasaki Fortress is located at Nagasaki.
5th RF Gun Battalion is located at Sian.
15th Tank Regiment is located at Nanning.
39951 men are based at Kanazawa.
Radio transmissions detected at Vancouver.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kai Island 6 LCUs 27160/143/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Satawal vacant
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Lae 1 fighter, 3 LCUs 3460/7/0
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tulagi 7 LCUs 12520/73/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Luang Prabang vacant
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Pisanuloke vacant

Combat

A Dinah tried to attack the SS Tarpon while she was patrolling in The Slot. Radar gave the sub enough warning for her to dive to safety.

A SB2C spotted an AK near Palau and reported hitting it. Later an AK was attacked by 11 X SB2C. 9 X P-47D and 9 X F4U-1D. The ship was hit no fewer than 6 times by bombs. Another strike appeared for another AK, already damaged. This time 2 X SB2C, 2 X P-47D and 2 X F4U-1D roared in and missed the target.

The SS Picuda, 77 miles S of Davao, tried and failed to attack 5 PGs.

Tavoy was attacked by 44 X B-29 (1 damaged), 18 X P-38J, 9 X Spitfire VIII and 13 X Corsair IV. 3 Georges were in the air and they were promptly destroyed by the escorts while 4 more were trashed on the ground by bombs. The airfield was moderately damaged, there were many secondary explosions and moderate casualties inflicted by the big silver birds. Artillery exchanges witnessed heavy losses by the Japanese and rattled nerves for the Allied troops.

Lautem was raided by 117 X B-25J and 24 X Kittyhawk III. 3 Mitchells were brought down by flak and 29 more were damaged as they caused moderate damage to the airfield, a lone secondary explosion was claimed, a Dinah was burning and personnel had heavy losses.

Buna's port facilities were lightly damaged by 45 X B-24D and AA fire destroyed 1 bomber and damaged 2 others. There were many secondary explosions and light troop losses.

Port Moresby was hit by 25 X B-17E who did was moderate damage to the airfield and heavy casualties to the personnel.

Lunga was swept by 21 X P-38J and they met with no opposition so after loitering for a bit they returned to base.

The IJA 48th Ind. Mixed Brigade, at Iwo Jima, was ineffectively attacked by 18 X B-25J, 14 X SB2C, 39 X P-38J and 25 X F4U-1. The Americans continued the pressure and attacked inflicting very heavy losses on the Japanese, while suffering heavy casualties of their own.

The 103rd IJNAF Base Force, on Yap, was subjected to very light losses by 19 Airacobras and 9 Thunderbolts.

The 5th New Chinese Corps was hit by 6 Helens and had light losses.

Bonin was struck by 30 X SBD, 59 X SB2C (1 destroyed, 1 damaged), 98 X TBF, 38 X TBM and 10 X F6F Hellcat. The airfield was moderately damaged, the port lightly, there were some secondary explosions and moderate troop losses.

The SS Tilefish, 82 E of Okinawa, struck a heavily escorted TK with a torpedo, setting it on fire.

An Allied attack about 49 miles S of Rahaeng resulted in extremely heavy Japanese losses and heavy casualties for the Allied force. The Japanese troops continued their retreat towards Krung Thep.

Stalin is pleased to hear that the Japanese vacated Heiho. “Maybe we will need to send troops there soon to quiet civilian unrest,” he toasts and he laughs. The men surrounding him join him in laughter and as soon as he stops so do they. One man mutters to his close friend. “At least he's in a good mood today.” The answer was that he should be now that the war has turned in their favor.

Phil has been told that his ship is heading to the US for repairs and he'll be flown to the States soon. He is expected to recover nicely, but hie right arm will never be the same he's told. The nerve damage was extensive and he will always experience numbness in his right hand and have reduced strength. He cheerfully announces, “That's OK because it's not enough to keep me from skippering a ship.”

Gil is now just a short train ride and a bus ride from arriving back at the base in New Mexico. It'll be good to get off of trains for a while, he thinks. Before going into the Army the only train he had ever been on was a subway in New York City. Now he travels cross country and flies around in the world's most advanced airplane. How things have changed for me, I even have a beautiful girl. He dozes off once more and is awakened when the train stops. Now for the bus.

The first Hungarian Jews arrived at Auschwitz. Adolph Eichmann also arrived to speed up the extermination process.

RAF planes sunk 5 U-boats of the Norwegian coast.

Victory Points Japanese 31919 Allied 30778

[tocaff]

May 17, 1944 Ulithi

Intel

Maizuru 1st SNLF is located at Rabaul.
36th Division is planning for an attack on Kweiyang.
41st Division is planning for an attack on Chungking.
7th AF Construction Battalion is located at Soerabaja.
5819 men are based at Aomori.
87755 men are based at Pescadores.
Tsugaru Fortress is located at Aomori.
1st Guards Mixed Brigade is located at Tokyo.
34th Construction Battalion is located at Tsitsihar.
Ryojun Fortress is located at Port Arthur.
38th Construction Battalion is located at Toyohara.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Bangkok 3 LCUs 5420/35/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Krung Thep vacant
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Amboina 31 aux, 11 LCUs 18520/120/0
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Lae 1 fighter, 5 aux, 3 LCUs 3460/7/0
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Lunga 8 aux, 15 LCUs 19000/77/0

Combat

Heiho is occupied by the Allies as Soviet troops move into the recently vacated area. The Japanese will be informed that it was done to maintain order.

The SS Dace, 73 miles NE Madang, attacked an AP under escort by a PC and hit the target with 2 torpedoes. Troops were observed going into the water to escape the flames.

Tavoy was raided by 29 X B-29 and 3 Georges attacked them. 2 of the Georges were shot up and between the fighters and flak a B-29 went down and 3 others were damaged. The airfield was moderately damaged, a secondary explosion was reported and there were light casualties. Then 139 X B-29 appeared and 3 Georges attacked them. All of the Japanese fighters were damaged and AA fire damaged 2 of the bombers. The damage to the airfield was heavy, there were some secondary explosions and personnel losses were moderate. The IJA 30th Division was being protected by 3 X George when 77 X Liberator VI (6 damaged), 48 X B-25J (1 damaged), 35 X B-24J, 60 X Thunderbolt II (2 damaged), 12 X Corsair IV and 9 X Spitfire VIII appeared. There were 3 late arriving Georges who joined the party and between bombs and bullets 6 X George were trashed and troop losses were heavy. Then the IJA 49th Division was targeted by 37 X Liberator VI (1 damaged), 6 X B-25J, 8 X B-24J (1 damaged), 4 X Thunderbolt II. The lone George in the area ran and the unit took moderate casualties. Japanese artillery lobbed shells at the Allies, but missed. An Allied attack saw both sides suffer extremely heavily. No ground was gained.

Dili was struck by 42 X B-24D and AA fire downed 1 and damaged 5 more. The port took moderate damage, there were many secondary explosions and casualties were very light.

Buna was hit by 48 X B-24J (4 damaged) and the port was lightly damaged.

On Iwo the Japanese troops were targeted by 14 X SB2C, 8 X B-25J, 39 X P-38J and 25 X F4U-1. Both sides escaped damage. Today's attack saw the Allies have heavy losses and the Japanese extremely heavy casualties. The pocket continues to slowly shrink.

The 5th New Chinese Corps had negligible losses due to a raid by 9 Helens.

The 23rd Indian Division, 54 miles S of Rahaeng, was raided by 26 X Helen and had extremely light casualties.

The Japanese AK near Palau was bombed and strafed by 19 X P-39D and 11 X SB2C. After numerous shell and bomb hits the ship went down.

Bonin was attacked by 29 X SBD, 57 X SB2C (2 damaged), 95 X TBF (4 damaged), 38 X TBM and 8 X F6F. The airfield was moderately damaged as was the port, there were a few secondary explosions and casualties were light.

Yap was ineffectually attacked by 13 X SB2C.

The SS Capelin, 87 miles E of Ishieak, tried and failed to attack a TK escorted by 2 PCs and 4 PGs.

Gil finds a bunk and flops into it. It's great to stretch out. He expects to get his orders tomorrow, but for now a real sleep is in order.

Stick kind of likes the ground attack missions because, “I finally have somebody to shoot at.” Of course it's air to air combat that he wants because this is no test of his skill. Some of the guys argue with him about that and they tell him that dropping a bomb on the right guys or flying so low to strafe the enemy isn't an easy thing to do. Still Stick wants his kill before the war ends. “With the way we've been advancing I'll probably get my kill over Japan,” he muses.

Sam is prepped and ready to go. He figures that reserve for an op means that he'll get there and be involved. “I always thought that the Marines were the guys for these amphibious assaults and here we are doing how many?” The guys around him shrug and one says to many.

Kesselring ordered the evacuation of Cassino.

Victory Points Japanese 31961 Allied 30867

[tocaff]

May 18, 1944 Bonin

Intel

6th Construction Battalion is located at Tsitsihar.
109th IJA Base Force is located at Yenen.
126th IJA Base Force is located at Gili Gili.
13th Army is planning for an attack on Chungking.
35th Division is planning for an attack on Kweiyang.
16th Division is located at Legaspi.
28th NLF is located at Muntok.
15th Mixed Brigade is located at Canton.
16th AA Regiment is located at Soerabaja.
15th Aviation Rgt is located at Batavia.
6473 men are based at Bangkok.
3rd AA Regiment is located at Tokyo.

Recon

F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Victoria Point 11 aux, 3 LCUs 9000/18/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Ubon vacant
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Amboina 1 X AP, 3 X DE, 11 LCUs 30020/189/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Woleai 1 LCU 880/0/0
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Lunga 7 aux, 15 LCUs 19000/77/0

Combat

A PB4Y attacked a sub 201 miles SW of Pagan Island and claimed a hit and reported seeing an oil slick.

A pair of PGs encountered a mine field at Amboina.

Ed's Old Gals conducted a naval bombardment of Bonin and the Japanese coastal guns fired back in defiance. The base's airfield was lightly damaged, there were a few secondary explosions and troop losses were extremely heavy. The BBs Colorado was hit 4 times, the Oklahoma 3 and the Arizona twice. The CA Portland took 4 hits and the CL Montpelier was struck 16 times. Then the bloody business of the troop landings commenced and the Americans had extremely heavy casualties, DDs, LSTs and an AP were hit by the shore guns. The 7th Base Force was attacked by 24 X SBD (1 destroyed), 52 X SB2C (2 damaged) and 8 X F6F and had heavy casualties.

Tavoy was attacked by 33 X B-29 (3 damaged) and 3 X George were in the air, but fled. The airfield was lightly damaged and troop losses were very light. The IJA 30th Division was hit by 99 X Liberator VI (1 damaged), 21 X B-25J (3 damaged), 35 X B-24J (1 damaged), 14 X P-38J, 61 X Thunderbolt II (1 damaged), 13 X Corsair IV and 12 X Spitfire VIII. 3 X George were in the air and they got flamed quickly and another 1 was destroyed on the ground. The unit had very heavy losses. Then the IJA 49th Division had it's turn at the hands of 15 X Liberator VI (2 damaged), 17 X B-25J (2 damaged) and 8 X B-24J. The 2 Georges in the air didn't attack the bombers and the unit had heavy casualties. The artillery duel continued and the Japanese had moderate losses while the Allied troops were unharmed.

The IJA 48th Ind. Mixed Brigade on Iwo took moderate losses at the hands of 11 X B-25J, 14 X SB2C, 36 X P-38J and 26 X F4U-1. The day's attack saw the Japanese sustain very heavy casualties and the Allied force had heavy losses. Very little ground changed hands.

The 145th IJA Base Force, 82 miles S of Rahaeng, had moderately heavy losses when 42 X Mosquito FB.VI attacked it. A plane departed trailing smoke and the unit continued it's retreat towards Krung Thep.

The 5th New Chinese Corps had light casualties due to the visit of 6 X Helen.

On Yap the airstrip was lightly damaged by 13 X SB2C and 15 X F4U-1D. A Japanese AK was attacked by 28 X SB2C, 18X TBM and 16 X F6F. The stricken vessel was hit by a few bombs.

The SS Razorback, 147 miles SE of Tuguegarao, attacked a heavily escorted AK and hit it with a fish, starting a fire. The sub evaded detection and departed.

The SS Tilefish, 23 miles E of Naha, tried and failed to attack a TK.

Sam is now aboard a transport to help beef up the Bonin invasion force. The men of the 25th Division had prayed that they wouldn't be needed, but here they go on yet another fight with the Japanese. He's surprised that they haven't been squeezed into the ship. The platoon LT says that it's because the Navy wants to unload them fast and get the hell out of Dodge. Well each step closer to Japan brings increased risk, Sam thinks.

Gil is stunned when he reads his orders. He is to report to Mather Field immediately. The order bears a date of 15 May. The orderly smiles at Gil and tells him not to worry. “When you finally get there you can expect to cool your heels for a while and then you'll be breaking in the new plane. It'll take forever for you to get orders from there.” The man returns to shuffling paper and Gil mumbles thanks and leaves. So now he's faced with another bus and more broken down trains. At least he won't have to cross the entire country.

Ed has passed the word for his command that they will get some time to tend to the little things that need doing, such as shore leave at Guam. Because things have gone about as expected his Old Gals shouldn't be needed for Tori Shima as that's beginning to look like an easy quick grab. The next major operation will be a tough one, he thinks.

Polish troops took Cassino today.

Victory Points Japanese 32022 Allied 30906

[tocaff]

Real Life threw me a busy day so the characters took the day off. Hopefully they'll return tomorrow.

May 19, 1944 Bonin

Intel

2nd Construction Battalion is located at Ichang.
136th IJA Base Force is located at Wotje.
Elements of the 7th Mongolian Cavalry Division are located at Hsinyang.
78416 men are based at Sapporo.
9th Aviation Rgt is located at Hailar.
Tsugaru Fortress is located at Aomori.
Tsushima Fortress is located at Masan.
27th Aviation Unit is located at Toyohara.
2737 men are based at Toyama.
68th Construction Battalion is located at Hamamatsu.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Siemrem Reap vacant
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Bandou vacant
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Palau 7 LCUs 31760/180/0
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 12 LCUs 22800/41/152
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Lunga 6 aux, 15 LCUs 48780/378/0

Combat

At Bonin the Allied troops continued to pour ashore, taking heavy losses and some of the LSTs were hit multiple times and were burning. A pair of APs were hit, 1 many times. The assault caused heavy losses for both sides, but the defenses were breached. The 7th Base Force was attacked by 23 X SBD, 51 X SB2C (2 damaged) and 8 X F6F. The unit had moderately heavy losses. Then another strike package of 10 X B-25J, 16 X SB2C (3 damaged), 40 X P-38J and 13 X F4U-1 appeared and they added additional light casualties to the battered unit.

Tavoy was bombed by 34 X B-29 and 2 Georges attacked the. Both fighters were shot up and a bomber was struck by flak. The airfield was moderately damaged, a single secondary explosion was seen and ground troops had extremely light casualties. The IJA 49th Division was attacked by 32 X Liberator VI (1 downed, 3 damaged), 20 X B-25J (4 damaged), 6 X B-24J and 4 X Thunderbolt II. The 2 Georges in the air ran and the unit took moderately heavy losses. Japanese artillery caused light Allied losses and the response from the Allied batteries inflicted moderate Japanese casualties.

Koepang was paid a visit by 30 X B-24J (7 damaged). The port took moderate damage, many secondary explosions were claimed and personnel losses were heavy.

Dili was raided by 35 X B-25J and AA fire brought 1 of them down and hit 2 others. The port was lightly damaged, there were a few secondary explosions and losses were very light.

Lautem was called on by 130 X B-25J and 24 X Kittyhawk III. A Mitchell was destroyed and 12 were damaged. The port had moderately heavy damage, there were many secondary explosions and troops had heavy casualties.

Palau was bombed by 33 X B-24J, 9 of which were damaged by the ground fire. The airfield sustained moderate damage, a single secondary explosion was observed and the troops had light losses.

Buna's port was targeted by 38 X B-17E and they did light damage to their target, but triggered many secondary explosions and casualties were very light.

Lunga was attacked by 92 X B-24J (4 damaged) and the airfield took heavy damage, many secondary explosions were reported, 3 Dinahs were destroyed and moderately heavy casualties were sustained by the troops.

The IJA 29th Ind. Mixed Brigade, about 94 miles S of Rahaeng, was hit by 40 X Mosquito FB.VI (1 damaged) for light losses. The IJA 34th Ind. Mixed Brigade, nearby was targeted by 62 X Liberator VI (4 damaged), 27 X B-25J (3 damaged), 27 X B-24J (1 damaged), 58 X Thunderbolt II, 9 X P-38J, 10 X Corsair IV and 6 X Spitfire VIII. This time the 2 Georges tried to fight and were killed for their efforts. The unit had very heavy casualties.

The 103rd IJNAF Base Force, on Yap, was raided by 28 X SB2C and 16 X F6F and the unit had moderate casualties.

The 5th New Chinese Corps had light losses from 6 Helens.

The 20th Indian Division, 41 miles S of Rahaeng, was being protected by 20 P-38Js when 23 Helens showed up and 3 of the Japanese planes were flamed and 4 more damaged as they inflicted light losses on the Indian unit. 3 Lightnings were damaged in the battle.

A Japanese DD and AO, 286 miles SW of Perth were attacked by 7 X Beaufighter Mk 21. A CAP of 3 Zekes and a Zero were up, but failed to intercept the attackers. No ordinance found the mark. Then 5 X Beaufighter Mk 21 attacked and 4 were destroyed by the CAP. The CVL thought to be the Shoho escaped damage.

The SS Capelin, 136 miles S of Okinawa, hit a TK with 2 fish, sinking it.

At Iwo Jima the Allied attackers had moderate losses and the Japanese very heavy casualties.

Eden told the House of Commons that 47 RAF officers were shot escaping from Stalag Luft III.

British troops took Aquino airfield SE of Rome.

Victory Points Japanese 32019 Allied 30935

[tocaff]

May 20, 1944 Bonin

Intel

17th Army is located at Clark Field.
6th Reserve Tank Regiment is located at Osaka/Kobe.
Chichijima Fortress is located at Niigata.
135th IJA Base Force is located at Wotje.
40654 men are based at Hailar.
3rd Reserve AA Regiment is located at Matsue.
1st Mortar Battalion is planning for an attack on Chungking.
10th Construction Battalion is located at Tsitsihar.
5849 men are based at Takamatsu.
2433 men are based at Naha.
67th Construction Battalion is located at Toyama.
35th Division is located at Nanning.
24th Division is located at Chiamussu.
Radio transmissions detected at Vancouver.

Recon

Pe-2R takes recon photos of Arshaan 2 LCUs 4960/63/0
Pe-2R takes recon photos of Mutanchiang 35 fighters, 3 bombers, 42 aux, 9 LCUs 22360/272/12
Pe-2 takes recon photos of Hailar 5 LCUs 15620/212/4
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Siemrem Reap vacant
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Bandou vacant
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 12 LCUs 21480/47/160
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Amboina 97 bombers, 57 aux, 11 LCUs 38080/294/0

Combat

The SS Dorado, 84 miles NW of Marcus Island, spotted an lone AK in the predawn and proceeded to give chase. After hitting the AK with 4 shells and 2 torpedoes, which caused the ship to go under, the sub departed.

The SS Thresher, 143 miles E of Batan Island, found 3 MSWs , but couldn't mount a successful attack on them.

Landings continued at Bonin, as the 25th Infantry Division hit the beaches taking very heavy casualties. The Allied troops assaulted the Japanese positions, throwing them back and taking the base. Japanese losses were thought to have been very heavy and the Americans had similar casualties. The 150th, 151st and 152nd IJA Base Forces were wiped out.

Tavoy was attacked by 39 X B-29 (1 damaged). The airfield was lightly damaged, a single secondary explosion was seen and the troops had light losses. Japanese artillery missed the mark once more and the Allied guns inflicted moderate losses on the Japanese.

Koepang was raided by 25 X B-24J and the flak damaged 1 of them. The port was moderately damaged and there were many secondary explosions.

Buna was visited by 45 X B-17E, 1 of which was damaged by the AA. The bombers failed to hit the target.

The IJA 29th Ind. Mixed Brigade, 97 miles S of Rahaeng, was pounced on by 37 X Mosquito FB.VI, 4 damaged, who caused light casualties. An Allied attack cost the Japanese very heavy casualties and they continued their retreat towards Krung Thep. The Allied force had light losses.

The 103rd IJNAF Base Force, on Yap, was attacked by 11 X SB2C, 21 X P-39D and 13 X F4U-1D. The unit had moderate losses.

The 6th Chinese Air Base Force was raided by 9 Helens who missed the few remaining men there.

At Iwo Jima the Allied attack cost them moderately heavy losses while the Japanese had extremely heavy casualties. The Japanese are now surrounded.

Phil is in transit and eventually they'll get him Stateside. He doesn't understand what all the fuss is about as he's fine except for his right arm being in a sling. He wants to oversee the repair work to his ship, but he's told to relax and that the exec will handle it.

Here I am back at the train station waiting for a train that's already 3 hours late and I'm, tired and hungry. Gil has an appreciation of civilian life versus the Army. He loves flying and as a civilian that's not going to be happening.

Sam can't believe that he's actually survived another landing. This was rough and the assault wave came ashore days ago, he thinks. Now he turns his attention to the task at hand, finding and disposing of Japs while trying to stay alive. Somehow his squad has had no casualties today and he thinks that it due to some kind of miracle.

Gunny and Slim are preparing for more drills tomorrow. They are working with APDs and that's a first for them. “I suppose the unit is being broken down into smaller parts for the upcoming operation,” Slim mutters. They've been told that the coastline of PNG is dotted with Japanese bases that need elimination. “That's us,” says Slim. “We're the department of elimination, a real pack of exterminators. We kill all sorts of pests.” The guys have a nervous laugh and Gunny grins and nods.

5,000 bombers raided 12 railway targets and 9 airfields in N France and Belgium.

The US 5th Army took Gaeta.

Victory Points Japanese 32027 Allied 31540

[tocaff]

May 21, 1944 Iwo Jima

Intel

Nagasaki Fortress is located at Nagasaki.
36th Division is planning for an attack on Kweiyang.
Kwantung Defense Brigade is located at Changchun.
2nd Hvy Gun Regiment is located at Tsitsihar.
8th Hvy Field Artillery Regiment is planning for an attack on Broome.
Tsushima Fortress is located at Masan.
Oshima Base Force is located at Kagoshima.
23rd Division is planning for an attack on Heiho.
Sasebo 5th SNLF is located at Tulagi.
33 aircraft are based at Kyoto.
Tsushima Fortress is located at Masan.
2nd Engineer Regiment is planning for an attack on Chungking.
17883 men are based at Shikka.
5th AA Regiment is located at Niigata.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Victoria Point 9 aux, 3 LCUs 9160/14/0
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Bangkok 45 fighters, 41 aux, 3 LCUs 4000/43/0
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Lunga 15 LCUs 41380/338/0
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tori Shima vacant
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 12 LCUs 22440/38/163

Combat

Tavoy was attacked by 66 X B-29 and they were met by 4 X George. 2 of the Japanese fighters were damaged in a less than aggressive attack and the AA damaged 2 of the big bombers. The airfield was heavily damaged, there were a couple of secondary explosions and heavy losses were sustained by the personnel. The Allies had very light casualties from the Japanese shelling them and the Japanese sustained moderate losses from the Allied big guns.

Lautem's port was raided by 122 X B-25J (9 damaged), 21 X Kittyhawk III and 18 X P-40N. The target was lightly damaged, there were some secondary explosions and heavy troop losses.

On Bonin the 7th Base Force was hit by 12 X SBD, 18 X SB2C and 6 X F6F. The unit had moderate casualties. The Allied attack caused very heavy Japanese losses and light Allied casualties. Little ground changed hands.

The 103rd IJNAF Base Force, on Yap, was struck by 28 Helldivers and 16 Hellcats for moderate losses.

The 5th New Chinese Corps had very light casualties due to 6 Helens dumping their bombs on the unit.

At Iwo Jima the Allied troops cut through the Japanese like a hot knife through butter inflicting hugely heavy losses while having moderate casualties of their own. Organized resistance has now been eliminated, though security will be maintained as the odd Japanese soldier is expected to appear from time to time.

“This APD is awful,” says Slim. “I'll bet a sardine can is less jammed than this. At least the run that we're supposed to make will be a short one.” He doesn't know that 2 days in these cramped conditions will be like hell. The point of the spear is always the last to know.

Gil's train finally arrived this morning and he managed to get a seat. There's virtually no cushion left on this old rickety train car. Gil inwardly laughs to himself thinking that the Army arranges things like this so that the barracks seem like heaven. He tries to write a letter to Elaine, but the car sways to much so he gives up and falls asleep.

Stick is still flying and still can't steal a chance to score a kill. The missions are CAP, escort or ground attack and the Japanese are nowhere to be found in the air. He doesn't know, but the Japanese seem to be making a concerted effort to avoid air to air combat with Corsairs.

Sam is amazed at how the Japanese continue to fight for every inch of ground when they know all is lost. The casualty list continues to grow and his squad lost a new guy today. “I tell these kids to be careful, to stay down and that guy stood up making himself a target that a blind man couldn't miss.” He takes it hard when somebody he's responsible for gets shot.

Sandy is visibly upset at the lack of mail from Bill. She said to Dave at breakfast today, “Of all the guys I had to fall for I picked one in the Navy. He might as well be on the moon.” Dave wisely kept quiet and cleared the table for her before leaving the house for work.

Victory Points Japanese 32051 Allied 31667

[tocaff]

May 22, 1944 Yap

Intel

3rd Guards Division is located at Tokyo.
120th IJNAF Base Force is located at Takamatsu.
6901 men are based at Inch'on.
7th Construction Battalion is located at Sining.
8th Aviation Rgt is located at Chiamussu.
126th IJA Base Force is located at Gili Gili.
1856 men are based at Akita.
2nd Base Force is located at Soerabaja.
15th Aviation Rgt is located at Batavia.
65th Division is located at Nanning.
47th Division is located at Tsingtao.
157th IJN Base Force is located at Manila.
6634 men are based at Hakodate.

Recon

Pe-2R takes recon photos of Tsitsihar 14 LCUs 55040/614/25
Pe-2R takes recon photos of Shikka 2 LCUs 15440/123/0
Pe-2 takes recon photos of Hailar 7 LCUs 25220/331/6
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kai Island 6 LCUs 24020/104/0
PBY Catalina takes recon photos of Tori Shima vacant
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 12 LCUs 21980/49/153

Combat

The invasion of Yap commenced and the troops had very heavy losses as they came ashore. The 103rd IJNAF Base Force was pounced on by 10 X SB2C, 21 X P-39D and 13 X F4U-1D for light losses.

Tavoy's airfield was bombed by 48 X B-29 and between the 4 X George on CAP and the AA 1 was shot down and 5 others took damage. 2 of the George's were flamed, the target was moderately damaged, there were a couple of secondary explosions and troop losses were light. Then 41 more B-29s appeared and 3 Georges attacked them. 1 bomber went down and a George was damaged. There was light damage to the airfield and a pair of secondary explosions were claimed. The artillery exchanges produced no Allied losses and light Japanese casualties.

Bangkok was under a CAP of 59 Zekes and 15 Georges when 32 Lightnings came screaming out of the sun onto them. In the furball that followed 19 Zekes were shot down (4 damaged) and 11 of the Georges bit the dust. 4 Lightnings were downed and 2 others suffered damage.

Dili had it's port bombed by 40 X B-24D (3 damaged) for light damage, though there were many secondary explosions and the troops had light casualties.

Port Moresby's airfield was raided by 38 X B-24J and the flak damaged 4 of them. The target had moderately heavy damage, there were some secondary explosions claimed and the personnel suffered heavy losses.

The 7th Base Force, on Bonin, was attacked by 11 X SBD, 16 X SB2C and 6 X F6F who inflicted light losses. The Allied troops continued to push the Japanese back, inflicting very heavy losses on them while sustaining very light casualties of their own. The Japanese troops have been eliminated as an effective fighting force. Surrounded in an ever shrinking pocket the few remaining troops won't surrender. They will be dealt with by roving patrols.

The IJA 49th Division, at Tavoy, was being protected by 3 X George when the sky was filled with 116 X Liberator VI (3 damaged), 41 X B-24J (1 damaged), 49 X B-25J Mitchell (1 downed, 2 damaged), 64 X Thunderbolt II (1 shot down), 15 X P-38J, 13 X Corsair IV and 9 X Spitfire VIII. 2 of the Georges were killed and the unit sustained very heavy casualties.

Kwajalein was attacked by 14 X PB4Y and 24 X P-47D. The did light damage to the port and 1 of the bombers was damaged by the AA fire.

Sam is glad to hear that the 25th Division is to be taken off of Bonin. They were there only for a brief stay, but the squad another wounded man today. Sam is still trying to understand why his outfit always seems to get called on and others just sit on their duffs.

The train was surprisingly cold last night and today Gil is hot. He quietly tells himself that after the war no more trains if he can help it. He looks forward to reuniting with the Lucky 11 and getting their own plane. He starts to think of names that would be good for it.

Sandy can't believe that another day has gone by and no letter for her. She keeps telling herself not to worry about Bill, but she can't help it.

Victory Points Japanese 31970 Allied 31715

[Capt. Harlock]

The 103rd IJNAF Base Force was pounced on by 10 X SB2C, 21 X P-39D and 13 X F4U-1D for light losses.

Any plans to upgrade to P-63 Kingcobras?

Victory Points Japanese 31970 Allied 31715

Getting closer!

[tocaff]

Capt H I have plans to upgrade the last of the P-39s to P-38Gs. I have many of these planes lying around collecting dust. The VPs gap is closing and I have all intentions of opening it up on the other end of the scale. The game currently is in the early stages of 8/44.

May 23, 1944 Yap

Intel

6th Army is located at Hailar.
3242 men are based at Anshan.
25279 men are based at Harbin.
Yura Fortress is located at Takamatsu.
21st Mixed Brigade is planning for an attack on Wyndham.
25th Army is planning for an attack on Darwin.
5915 men are based at Niigata.
102nd IJA Base Force is located at Harbin.
Yokosuka Reserve Coastal Artillery Regiment is located at Tokyo.
South Seas Det. is planning for an attack on Townsville.
13th Ind. Brigade is located at Ichang.
49th Construction Battalion is located at Hailar.
6183 men are based at Taipei.

Recon

Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Kai Island 6 LCUs 28200/122/0
PB2Y Coronado takes recon photos of Marcus Island 11 LCUs 13500/43/0
F-5A Lightning takes recon photos of Port Moresby 12 LCUs 21620/45/160
F-5C Lightning takes recon photos of Krung Thep 6 LCUs 3880/22/0
Mosquito PR.IX takes recon photos of Alor Star vacant

Combat

Tavoy was bombed by 33 X B-29, 16 X P-38J (1 damaged) and 2 X Corsair IV. They were opposed by a CAP of 2 X George, both of which were quickly disposed of by the escorts. The airfield was moderately damaged, a sole secondary explosion was seen and there were very light casualties to the troops. The the IJA 49th Division was attacked by 77 X Liberator VI (2 damaged), 25 X B-25J (2 damaged), 39 X B-24J (2 damaged), 57 X Thunderbolt II (3 damaged) and 12 X Spitfire VIII. Alone George was in the air and the Spits quickly downed it. The unit had heavy losses. Another raid of 24 X Liberator VI (2 damaged), 18 X B-25J (3 damaged), 3 X B-24J, 4 X Thunderbolt II and 11 X Corsair IV attacked the 124th IJABF inflicting moderately heavy casualties on the unit. A lone George fled the scene upon the appearance of the Allied planes. The Japanese artillery made some noise and that was it and the Allied barrage caused moderate Japanese losses.

Koepang was bombed by 35 X B-24D (1 destroyed, 5 damaged). The port was heavily damaged, there were many secondary explosions and casualties were placed at very light.

Port Moresby was the target of 24 X B-24D and the airfield was moderately damaged, a single secondary explosion was reported and casualties were light.

The 5th New Chinese Corps had light losses from the 6 marauding Helens.

On Yap the 103rd IJNAFBF was hit by 28 X SB2C and 16 X F6F for light losses. Another raid of 10 X SB2C, 21 X P-29D and 13 X F4U-1D resulted in no Japanese casualties. The Allied troops swarmed over the island eliminating the Japanese force there and the base was declared secure at a cost of no Allied casualties.

Bangkok was swept by 29 X P-38J and the CAP of 24 X Zeke and 7 X George tangled with them. A Lightning was shot down and the Japanese had 8 Zekes flamed, 1 damaged and 3 Georges were lost.

Kwajalein was struck by 40 X TBM and the flak knocked 1 down and damaged 7 others. The escort of 8 X FM-2 watched as the airfield was lightly damaged, a secondary explosion was seen and it was thought that there were very light casualties. Another attack was made by 25 X SB2C (5 damaged) and 24 X P-47D. Once more the airfield had very light damage and very light casualties were inflicted on the ground personnel. A third raid appeared, this time 24 X PB4Y caused very light damage to the airstrip, a secondary explosion was reported and 3 X Betty were destroyed.

Sam wonders what's going on as his unit is still sitting in the same area and there are no orders for anything. He wonders if it's the old 'Hurry up and wait.”

Bill reviews the reports from the various sections and is pleased to see that the ship is running smoothly without any problems. He's been very fortunate so far in this war to have served on 2 different ships and to have had 2 good crews. He rubs his temples and sets the reports aside, pulls out a blank piece of paper, grabs a pen and starts to write a letter to Sandy. This act always seems to help him to relax. After the letter is done he goes to his bunk and grabs some sleep.

“These drills are for the birds,” says one of Slim's guys. He agrees, but doesn't say so as he knows that drills result in everybody knowing their job and how to do it without thinking.

Stick can't believe his luck today. After flying a ground support mission at Yap he was returning to base when a Japanese flying boat was spotted. His flight was sent to deal with it, but before anybody could make a pass at the big juicy target it lost itself in the clouds. The Corsairs are noted for many things, but range isn't one of them and they couldn't loiter to search for long. To say Stick was disappointed is an understatement.

The US 5th Army attacked out of Anzio towards Rome.

Victory Points Japanese 31969 Allied 31754