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Rev.3 Jul /2025

"I will come!"

The 315^th Troop Carrier Group War Diaries

Following are re-types of the Outline Histories and War Diaries sent up to Wing HQ each month. The original documents are preserved at the Air Force History Office at Maxwell AFB. AL, and have been retyped for web format by Miles Hamby, son of Henry Hamby, original member of the 315th TCG and first commander of the 310th TCS. The duty of writing the war diaries at the time was usually assigned to the squadron adjutant and typed by the squadron clerk. Often, as can be seen by reading these, the writer was very expressive. The text herein has not been edited for punctuation or typographical errors, but exactly that that was submitted to Wing HQ, and subsequently recorded in the Air Force archives on microfilm. The type font used for these re-types is Courier to provide similarity to the original font of the typewriters upon which the diaries were originally typed. The formatting of text is not exact but approximates the original document.

OUTLINE HISTORY 1. ORGANIZATION. A) 17 February 1942. The 315th Troop Carrier Group was activated and Olmstead Field, Middletown, Pennsylvania, as the 315th Transport Group (G.O. #7) Hq Middletown Ari Depot, dated 16 February 1942) and consisted of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, 33rd Transport Squadron, 34th Transport Squadron, and the35th Transport Squadron. Cadre of 17 officers and 114 Enlisted men were obtained from the 6th Transport Squadron and the 2nd Transport Squadron. Subsequent personnel was obtained from the following sources: Overseas Discharge and Replacement Depot, Hew Orleans, Ls. P of E Lowry Field, Denver, Colorado 6th Transport Squadron 2nd Transport Squadron 56th Air base Squadron 1301st Service unit, Reception Center, New Cumberland, Pa. A.A.F. Technical Training Command, Rising sun School of Aeronautics Air Service Command, Wright Field 246th Coast Artillery 720th M.P. Company Middletown Air Depot 41st Ordnance Battalion A.A.F. Technical Training Command, New England Aircraft School. Headquarters Technical School, Fort Logan, Colo. Air Intelligence School, Harrisburg, Ps. 52nd Troop Carrier Wing. Reception Center, Jefferson Barracks. Mo. 28th Infantry Division. A.A.F. Technical, Chanute Field, Illinois. Replacement Training Center, Keesler Field, Miss. Medical Service School, Carlisle Barracks, Pa. Headquarters, Lawson Field, Fort Benning, Ga A.A.F. Technical School, Scott Field, Ill. Greenville Army Flying School, Greenville, Miss. Air Base Headquarters, Bowman Field, Ky. A.A.F. Advanced Flying school, Brooke Field, Texas. 1st Troop Carrier Command, Stout Field, Ind. A.A.F. Technical Training Command, Santa Monica, Calif. 50th Troop Carrier Wing, Camp William, Wis. Headquarters, Army Air Base, Florence, S.C. Basic Training Center, Keesler Field, Miss. A.A.A. Advanced Flying School, Turner Field, Ga. A.A.F. Training Detachment, U.S. Rubber Co., Detroit, Michigan. Training Detachment A.A.F.T.T.C. Academy of Aeronautics, LaGuardia Field, NY. 63rd Troop Carrier Group. Basic Training Center, Sheppard Field, Texas. Casey Jones School of Aeronautics, Newark, N. J. 89th Troop Carrier Group. Captain Thomas J. Schofield, O-309738, assumed command upon activation. The Group was assigned to the 50th Transport Wing. B) 17 April 1942. Major Hamish McLelland, C-277350, assumed command vice Major Thomas Schofield (S.O. #28, Hq 315th Transport Group dated 17 April 1942). C) 6 June 1942. The 35th Transport Squadron was relieved of assignment to this Group and assigned tot the 63th Transport Group (Teletype H.A.T.C.-J-101, Headquarters, Air Transport Command, Stout Field, Ind. Dated 6 June 1942.) D) 15 June 1942. The 43rd Transport Squadron was organized and assigned to this Group. E) 18 June 1942. The 315th Transport Group was redesignated as the 315th Troop Carrier Group, consisting of: Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron 34th Troop Carrier Squadron 34rd Troop Carrier Squadron 54th Troop Carrier Squadron The Group was assigned to the 52nd Troop Carrier Wing. G) Pursuant to orders from 52nd Troop Carrier Wing, the 33rd Troop Carrier Squadron departed Florence, South Carolina, on or about 27 September 1942 and were detached from this Headquarters to prepare for assignment to the Pacific Theater. Subsequent operations of this Squadron have not been reported to this Group. H) Pursuant to V.O.C.G., I Troop Carrier Command, received 28 September 1942, the 54th Troop Carrier Squadron departed Florence, South Carolina on or about 29 September 1942 and were detached from the Headquarters to prepare for assignment to the Alaskan theater. Subsequent operations of the Squadron have not been reported to this Group. I) 11 October 1942. Air Echelon arrived Kellog Field, Michigan and reported to 1st Concentration Command (Authority: Letter, Hq. 52nd Troop carrier Wings, Pope Field, dated 11 October 1942). J) 17 October 1942. Ground Echelon arrived Fort Dix, New Jersey, reporting to the Commanding Officer (Auathori8ty: Letter, Hq. 52 Troop Carrier Wing, Pope Field, North Carolina, dated 11 October 1942) K) 28th October 1942. Air Echelon reported to North Atlantic Wing, Air Transport Command, Presue Isle, Me. L) 12 December 1942. Air Echelon reunited with Ground Echelon at Aldermaston, England, Station 467 and reported to Commanding General VIII Air Support Command. M) 25 May 1942. Detachment “A”, 315thTroop Carrier Group commanded by Col. Hamish McLelland departed Station 467 as a loan to the Xii Air Force. (Letter VIII Air Force dated 18 May 1943, subject” “Loan of Planes and Crews to be sent to North Africa”. 1st Lt. William H. Sims, O-790559 assumed command of this Group in the absence of Col. Hamish McLelland, O-277350 (confirmed by S.O. #82, Headquarters, 315th Troop Carrier Group, dated 12 June 1943.) N) 26 June 1943. Colonel Russel L. Moughan, O-10452, assumed command of this Group vice 1st Lt. William H. Simms, 0-790559 (V.O.C.G. VIII Air Support Command.) O) 30 August 1943. Group attached to Headquarters, 1st Fighter Division, (Prov.) (Letter, commanding General, VIII Air Support Command, dated 30 August 1943). P) 2 September 1943. 1st Lt. William H. Simms, 0-790559, assumed command of the Group vice Col Russel L. Moughan, O-10452 (S.O. #12, 1st Fighter Division (Prov.) dated 8 September 1943. Q) 19 September 1943. Lt. Col. James L. Zimmerman, O-153188, assumed command of the Group, vice 1st Lt. William H. Simms, 0-790559. (S.O. #1, Headquarters, 315th Troop Carrier Group, dated 19 September 1943). R) 16 October 1943. Group was assigned to the IX Troop Carrier Command, IX Air Force (S.O. #3, IX Troop Carrier Command, dated 19 September 1943.) S) 4 November 1943. Captain William H. Simms, 0-790559, assumed command of the Group, vice Lt. Col. James L. Zimmerman, O-153188 (S.O. #2, IX Troop Carrier Command, dated 4 November 1943.) T) 30 November 1943. Lt. Col. William G. Booth, O-131929, assumed command of this Group, vice Capt. William H. Simms, 0-790559, S.O. #4, Headquarters, 315th Troop Carrier Group, dated 30 November 1943.) 2. STRENGTH. 30 November 1843 Officers: 138 Warrant Officers 2 Flight Officers: 77 Enlisted Men: 536 Total: 753

3. MOVEMENTS. A) Air Echelon. 1)Departed Olmstead Field, Middletown, Pa.- 17 June 1942. Arrived Bowman Field, Louisville, Ky. – 18 June 1942. 2) Departed Bowman Field, Louisville, Ky. – 3 August 1942. Arrived Florence Army Air Base, Florence, S. C. – 4 August 1942. 3) Departed Florence Army Air Base, Florence, S. C. – 11 October 1942. Arrived Kellog Field, Battle Creek, Michigan – 11 October 1942. 4) Departed Kellog Field, Battle Creek, Michigan – 28 October 1942. Arrived Presque Isle, Maine – 28 October 1942. 5) Departed Presque Isle, Maine – 7 November 1942. Arrived Goose Bay, Labrador – 8 November 1942. 6) Departed goose Bay, Labrador – 8 November 1942. Arrived Bluie West 1, Greenland -8 November 1942. 7) Departed Bluie West 1, Greenland – 8 December 1942. Arrived Rejavik, Iceland – 8 December 1942. 8) Departed Rejavik, Iceland – 12 December 1942. Arrived Prestwick, Scotland – 12 December 1942. 9) Departed Prestwick, Scotland – 12 December 1942. Arrived Aldermaston, England – 12 December 1942 (G-467). 10) Departed Aldermaston, England (G-467) – 6 November 1942. Arrived Welford Park, England (G-474) – 6 November 1942. B) Ground Echelon. 1) Departed Olmstead Field, Middletown, Pa.- 17 June 1942. Arrived Bowman Field, Louisville, Ky. – 18 June 1942. 2) Departed Bowman Field, Louisville, Ky. – 3 August 1942. Arrived Florence Army Air Base, Florence, S. C. – 4 August 1942. 3) Departed Florence Army Air Base, Florence, S. C. – 16 October 1942. Arrived Fort Dix, New Jersey – 17 October 1942. 4) Departed Fort Dix, New Jersey – 23 November 1942. Arrived New York, Port of Embarkation – 23 October 1942. 5) Departed New York, Port of Embarkation – 24 November 1942. Arrived Greenok, Scotland – 30 November 1942. 6) Departed Greenok, Scotland – 30 November 1942. Arrived Aldermaston, England (G-467) – 1 December 1942. 7) Departed Aldermaston, England (G-467) – 6 November 1943. Arrived Welford Park, England (G-474) – 6 November 1942. C) Detachment “A”. 1) Departed Aldermaston, England – 25 May 1943. Arrived Portreath, England – 25 May 1943. 2) Departed Portreath, England – 27 May 1943. Arrived Casablanca, French Morocco – 28 May 1942. 3) Departed Casablanca, French Morocco – 29 May 1942. Arrived Blida, Algeria – 29 May 1943. 4) Losses in action: Negative. 5) Awards and Decorations: Negative. ///

WAR DIARY

7 November 1942 8 November 1942

Twenty-nine aircraft of this Group departed Presque Isle, Maine at 0830 hours for Goose Ba. Labrador, making the trip in five hours. The flight was at 7000 feet and the temperature at -30 degrees. Nineteen planes departed Goose Bay, Labrador at 1130 G.M.T for Bluie West 1, Greenland, arriving there at 1630 G.M.T and landing with a 15 mile an hour tail wind. Col. McLelland’s plane had a bad starter and he brought up the rear. Flight was made above overcast for most of the trip with broken cloud at BW1. Planes had to go to 1500 feet to top the overcast.

8 December 1942

Twelve planes departed Bluie West 1 at 1050 hours GMT, arriving at Rejavik [SIC here, misspelled throughout document], Iceland at approximately 1730 hours GMT after climbing to 19500 feet to top the clouds over the ice cap. Twenty-one planes actually departed but nine were forced to turn back by the weather.

11 December 1942

Eleven planes departed Rejavik. Four turned back but seven continued to Sternway where they stopped on account of darkness.

12 December 1942

Three planes departed Rejavik and arrived Prestwick, Scotland that afternoon, topping all clouds at 9000 feet. Six planes departed Stornoway and arrived Aldermaston, England that afternoon.

13 December 1942

Four planes departed Rejavik and arrived Prestwich, Scotland at 1700 hours BST. The remaining lanes did not clear Rejavik because of the terrific head winds enroute.

20 December 1942

Col. McLelland led a formation of four panes into Aldermaston from Prestwick.

5 May 1943

General Candee inspected the Station and a review was held for him by the Group.

9 May 1943

Dedication of the new Chapel at Aldermaston. Chaplain Colon P. Coaker of the Group officiating. Chaplain Ralph A. Hill form the VIII Air Support Command, Guest speaker, preached the dedicatory sermon.

25 May 1943

Detachment “A”. Flights took off for Portreath on first leg of journey to North Africa. Col. McLelland, Group Commander, led the first flight, taking off at 1028 hours and arriving at 1149 hours. Detachment scheduled to leave Portreath at midnight but had weather caused postponement. All personnel restricted to the Station.

27 May 1943

All planes left Portreath, the first flight taking off at 2000 hours.

28 May 1943

All planes arrived safely at Cazes (Casablanca). Pilots, Navigators, Radio operators, and Crew Chiefs were very fatigued after flying approximately 9½ hours.

28 May 1943

Casablanca. Received word that our destination had been changed from Relizane to Blida, Algeria.

29 May 1942

Breakfast at Casablanca. Takeoffs started at 0930. All lanes landed at Oujda, Algeria. The Colonel and his staff too the opportunity to visit the XII Troop Carrier Command Headquarters during the lunch hour. Tool off from Oujda at 1430 hours and all arrived safely at Blida, Algeria. Major H. B. Lyon being the first to land at 1700 hours. Sleeping accommodations not adequate and most crew members and passengers slept in airplanes.

30 May 1943

Plans are being made for setting up tents and the various departments. Shops are being unloaded.

31 May 1943

Twenty six additional aircraft assigned to the Group. The Engineering Officer is not very happy about their condition.

1 June 1943

The 315th takes over the North African courier service hitherto handled by the 64th Troop Carrier Group. Seven aircraft were dispatched on courier missions.

2 June 1943

New personnel attached to the Group, to be used as crews on the newly assigned aircraft. The situation is becoming normal after a few very hectic days. All departments are functioning effectively although very short of man power.

27 June 1943

After trying for three days to land at Pantellaria and having to turn back because of rough runways, succeed in getting 3 aircraft in today, the first form the Group land there. Small fire in Headquarters building in which one attached man was slightly injured.

30 June 1943

Station at Aldermaston is transferred from the R.A.F.to the U.S.A.A.F. Present at the ceremony were Air Commodore C.E.V. Porter representing the R.A.F. and Colonel Russel L. Maughan representing the U.S.A.A.F.

1 July 1943

Detachment “A” is to be operationally controlled by the Mediterranean Air Transport Service, and all aircraft of the 34th Squadron were ordered back to Blida for reassignment.

13 July 1943

Four aircraft of this Group scheduled to and arrived safely at Ponte Olivio, Sicily. The flight was let by Lt. Col. Lyon and landed within 72 hours of the invasion.

21 September 1943

Three aircraft of the Group flew to Sardinia.

26 September 1943

The first aircraft from this Group landed in Italy at Montecorvino. Three aircraft were placed on detached service to make regular runs between Sicily and Italy.

30 September 1943

The first aircraft fro the Group landed in Corsica.

7 October 1943

Col. McLelland departed for England on matter pertaining to the Group. At Aldermaston, combat news participated in an “Evasion’ exercises planned and conducted by Capt. George C. Kimball. The exercise was very successful as sell as exciting. Also exciting were Capt. Kimball’s efforts to pacify the owners of vehicles which the Evaders borrowed.

21 November 1943

This is our one year overseas anniversary. Special Service arranged to help us celebrate by scheduling “Hey Rookie”’ starring Sterling Holloway and Chic Brent. It was a good show that a everyone enjoyed.

22 November 1943

Br. General Giles of the IX Troop Carrier Command paid a short visit tot the detachment in Blida.

(Below) Facsimile of original report by Maj. Stark, 34th TCS, regarding operations for Month of June while 34th TCs was detached from Aldermaston. Maj. Stark would become first commanding officer of the 309th TCS formed in May 1944 in anticipation of the Normandy invasion.

HEADQUARTERS, AIR ECHELON 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP Office of the Operation Officer (APO #786 – U S Army 5 July 1943 SUBJECT: Accomplishment Report for Month of June. TO : Commanding Officer, 315th Troop Carrier Group. 1. The following report on the accomplishment of the 315th Troop Carrier Group for the month of June 1943 is submitted for you information: . No. PASS Lbs. FREIGHT Lbs. MAIL MILES FLOWN HH FLOWN June 1 – June 1372 157,793 NOT INIATIVE AT THIS TIME June 6 – June 12 5596 461,330 98,601 155,028 1135 June 13 – June 19 5821 591,635 157,753 133,099 987 June 20 – June 26 4299 543,417 135,389 117,401 850 June 27 – June 30 2717 306,330 75,101 70,595 519 TOTAL 19805 2,060,505 466,834 476,163 3,491 2. The information for the above report is taken from the “Pilots Missions Report” which is turned into Operation upon completion of each trip. 3. The number of passengers, pounds of freight, and pounds of mail hauled are considered as “pay load” and does not take into considerations the number of stops where the same person, freight, or mail may have been counted or weighed again before departure on the next leg of the trop. 4. Definite information on the percentage of airplanes in commission during the month of June not complete. The percentage of lanes in commission will be submitted in the report for the month of July. SMYLIE G. STARK Major, Air Corps, OPERATIONS OFFICER. DISTRIBTUION 1 C.O. 315th T.C. Gp. 1 C.O. 34th T.C. Sq 1 C.O. 43rd T.C. Sq 1 File

(Below) Facsimile of original report from Col Hamish McLelland to 8th Air Support Command Group HQ at Aldermaston regarding temporary assignment to North Africa for month of July 1943.

HEADQUARTERS, AIR ECHELON 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP Office of the Group Commander APO # 768 – U. S. Army 18 July 1943 SUBJECT: Temporary Duty in North Africa To: : Commanding General, VIII Air Support Command, APO 618, U.S. Army, (Attention Chief of Staff). 1. The 315th Troop Carrier Group prepared twenty-one (21) airplanes for temporary duty in North Africa in accordance with letter 452.1 x 320.2 your Headquarters, dated 14 May 1943,”loan of Troop Carrier Flight Echelons and Airplanes.” The airplanes were to be completely modified for operational use and the engine times to be less than 400 hours. Only the air echelon was to accompany these planes with a few extra pilots and no spare parts. The movement ordered dated 23 May 1943 stated that the destinations was Relizane Algeria reporting to the Commanding Officer, 51st Troop Carrier wing for temporary duty of approximately six weeks. 2. The group departed the United Kingdom the evening of 27 May 1943 arriving Casablanca the morning of 28 May 1943. The destination was changed by a telephone message sending the flight to Oujda, Algeria. The flight arrived Oujda at noon 29 May 1943 where written orders were issued for the group to proceed to Blida, Algeria to replace the 63th Troop Carrier Group on the Courier and Freight Service in North Africa, being under the control of the 51st Troop Carrier Wing for administration and Northwest African Air Service Command for operations. 3. The 64th Troop Carrier Group was ordered to move from Blida to Nouvion where they were to begin training with paratroops and gliders for operational missions. The 315th Troop Carrier Group replaced squadron by squadron the 65th Troop Carrier Group on the Courier and Freight Schedule in North Africa. While this replacement was in progress, the 51st Troop Carrier Wing transferred either (8) of the original twenty-one (21) planes to other Troop Carrier Groups for operational use as they were completely modified. In order that the 315th could replace the 64th, thirty-nine (39) old planes were transferred, to the Group from the 60th, 62nd, and 64th Troop Carrier Groups, bringing our total fifty-two (52) planes. Additional crews were placed on temporary duty, with this Group making a total of fifty-two (52) crews. The old planes transferred to the Group were short of necessary equipment; engines in very poor condition, many requiring engine changes; as they had been in operation in the desert for several months under the most unfavorable condition. 4. Group Mission. a. Twenty0six (26) airplanes assigned to thi3 34th troop carrier Squadron were responsible for the passenger courier flight witch were made in accordance with the attached schedule. Sixteen (16) planes and crews were necessary each day to fulfill the schedule, taking passengers, mail and urgent air freight to and from twenty bases in North Africa extending from Agadir, French morocco to Tripoli. Special mission other than scheduled flight, are made when extra aircraft were available in the Squadron. An average of 90 hours was flown by the 34th crews during the month of June. The group was temporarily assigned to the Mediterranean Air Transport Service by the enclosed order, who inaugurated a new schedule requiring twelve planes, each flight ten to twelve hours a day and twenty crews each day with each flight five to six hours. b. Twenty-six (26) airplanes assigned to the 43rd Troop Carrier Squadron receive the Priority Freight Mission for A-3 Northwest African Service Command each evening sending all available planes to haul freight to and from any place urgently needed. These Planes cover all the territory in North African theater, Malt, Gozo Island, Pantalleria shortly after its capture and into Sicily seventy-two hours after the invasion. Supplies and equipment were hauled to the Tunis Area and Litter Patients would be brought back to Algiers. The average time of the crew during the month of June was 90 hours. c. One plane was schedule three evening a week to drop, British Chinese, and a American paratroop from 1930 to 2130 hours. This gave the plane crews valuable training. d. Attached is a Group Accomplishment Report for the month of June 5. A total of 88 maintenance men were attached to the Group from other Troop Carrier Groups making a total of 135 men, including the crew chiefs both with the air echelon to perform all the maintenance of fifty-two planes. Since 10 June 1943, fifty (50) engines have been changed, four (4) are being changed at the present time, and none are awaiting to be changed. During the first two weeks in June, fifteen (15) tires blew out, and being unable to obtain new ones from the depots, tires had to be taken from planes grounded at the home station for other reasons and placed on the planes needing tires. An average of sixty-five (65) 100 hour inspections are being pulled per month in addition to the fifty and twenty-five hour inspections and other work. Our maintenance men and crew chiefs have been working from six o’clock each morning until nine o’clock each night. Their morale and high efficiency of work are to be commended. No engine accessories are available and to old ones must be used on the new engines; generator control panels must be repaired while the airplanes are grounded a s new ones are not available. Engine stand or dollies could not be obtained at the depots. Flare pistols, flares and Aldis Lamps were not available for the protection of our crews and planes. 6. When the 64th Troop Carrier Group departed Blida, it left the 315th responsible for all Americans on the base and all base functions. Difficulty was encountered in seducing a telephone switch board and telephones until finally they were secure directly from the SOPSS without going through the usual channels. A request was made for transportation and at the present time have on 2000 gal gas truck eight two and on half (21/2)ton trucks, two ambulances and two cleatracs. A requisition for a mimeograph machine and stencils was made at the depot two weeks ago but they are not available. With the responsibility of the base, very few of the TBA items including Air Corps equipment have been available. Cooks, KPs guards, telephone operators, drivers, teletype operators, parachute rigger, painters and carpenters have been supplied from the small number of 64th enlisted men left at Blida on temporary service at the time of their departure. 7. Difficulty was encountered by S-2 in securing colors of the day, verification codes and syko cards. The group was transferred so often that it was never on any commands distribution list. 8. On 1 July 1943, this Group was relieved from attachment to the Troop Carrier Command and attached tot the Northwest African Air Service Command for administration and to the Mediterranean Air Transport Service, Mediterranean Air command, for operational duty, 9. Although the Group did not participate in the mission which it was apparently to North African to do, it relieve on group (64th Troop Carrier Grop) from duty on the Courier Service so that they could take part in the invasion of Sicily. The six weeks temporary duty as ordered expired 12 July 1943. /a/ HAMISH McLELLAND /T/ HAMISH McLELLAND Colonel, Air Corps Commanding

HISTORICAL DATA 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP 1 December 1943 To 31 December 1943 OUTLINE HISTORY 1. ORGANIZAITON: Negative 2. STRENGTH: Total: 733 Officers: 138 Warrant Officers: 2 Flight Officers: 77 Enlisted Men: 516 3. MOVEMENTS: Negative. 4 LOSSES IN ACTION: Negative. 5. DECORATIONS AND AWARDS: Negative. ///

WAR DIARY 1 December 1943 To 31 December 1943

Detachment “A”

Still in North Africa performing station duties and hauling freight and passengers for Mediterranean Air Transport Service and the Xii Air Force Service Command. bad weather hampered operations in spite of which aircraft and crews accumulated 3,254 hours, 35 minutes flu9ing time in covering 373,120 miles. During the last few days of the month, intensive preparations were made for the return to England scheduled for early January and the 21 aircraft which were to make the trip were grounded for installation of extra fuel tanks. The portion of the Group at Welford Park, England, wss performing routine station duties, training, and making such non-operational flights as were directed by the 50th Troop Carrier Wing.

2 December 1943

One aircraft with crew dispatched to Wool fox Lodge, Lincolnshire for the purpose of transporting personnel.

4 December 1943

Detachment “A” – Lt. Moore, an attached pilot while on a routine flight across the Mediterranean, sighted and aircraft in the water and upon investigation found five or six persons in the water nearby in life vests. He circled low and dropped a liage[SIC] raft and notified a nearby and notified a nearby hospital ship and the R.A.F. Coastal Air Force station at Tunis. Lt. Col. H. B. Lyon returned from England brining 44 sacks of mail for the detachment. Nearly everyone was up until after midnight reading mail.

6 December 1943

Major William L. Parker, 0-353026, Group S-1, was appointed Group Administrative Inspector as an additional duty.

9 December 1943

One aircraft with crew was dispatched to Bovington, Hertfordshire, and thence to Raydon, Suffolk on detached service for ten days. Two enlisted men transferred from headquarters of the Group to Headquarters, IX Troop Carrier Command.

12 December 1943

Detachment “A” – Bad weather, and hence no flights. Preparations are being started for the return of the Detachment to England early in January.

13 December 1943

Detachment “A” – Some flights cancelled, others forced to return to base account of weather.

14 December 1943

Detachment “A” – Weather clearing up and all flights departed on schedule; some were forced to return. Temporary crews were set up for the forthcoming trip to England and the decisions made to carry no passengers on the trip.

17 December 1943

Several promotions in Group Headquarters today as follows: Appointed Technical Sergeant (Temporary) S/Sgt. GEORGE P. OSWALD, 12044953 (542) Appointed Corporal (Temporary) Pfc. FRANK C. BAKER, Jr., 39407763 (807) Pfc. DORRIS C. GORHAM, 35090182 (239) Pfc. JACK (NMI) STEIN, 32439623 (501) Pfc. KENNETH H. WAGGONER, 32251573 (501)

17 December 1943

Appointed Private First Class (Temp) Pvt. George, N. doll, 37432880 (501) Pvt. NNOEL R. SEIM, 16050412 (501) Pvt. EARL (NMI) THOMAS, 33234416 (501)

19 December 1943

F/O George L. Peavey, AC, of the 34^th Troop Carrier Squadron was, in addition to his other duties, was appointed Asst. Group Intelligence Officer.

20 December 1943

Pfc. Guy W. Tustin, 33088478, was promoted to Corporal (Temp.) Detachment “A” – preparations for departure to England are now in full swing. Air craft to be used on the trip are grounded and cabin fuel tanks being installed.

21 December 1943

Pfc. Irving (NMI) Cohen, 12142702, was promoted to Corporal (Temp). Detachment “A” – Activity increases. Aircraft being modified completely for the return to the United Kingdom. The 34^th Squadron is to take 11 planes; the 43^rd is to take 10 planes. Day otherwise normal.

22 December 1943

Detachment “A” –Activity as usual but with a minimum amount of runs due to grounding of the 21 aircraft.

25 December 1943

Detachment “A” – Christmas day, and very little activity, all departments either being closed down or operating with skeleton staffs. A very good Turdy dinner was served and the U.S.O. show furnished very good entertainment in the evening.

26 December 1943

In addition to his other duties, 1^st Lt. Bartley D. Rienhardt, 0-339348, AC, as detailed as Group Personal Equipment Officer.

27 December 1943

Six aircraft and crews were dispatched to Bottesford, Nottinghamshire on a non-operational mission.

28 December 1943

Detachment “A” – attached personnel who have worked in the various departments are taking over those departments to relieve the Detachment for the tri back to the United Kingdom.

31 December 1943

Detachment “A” – Several liaison pilots attached to the Detachment have received orders and left today to return to the United States.

1 January 1944 To 31 January 1944 DETACHMENT “A” – This portion of the group was still in North Africa. The early portion of the month was devoted to preparation for returning to England; aircraft being modified, and attached personnel training to take over station jobs and the courier runs. The try’s proved to be a dry run and on 11 January 1944 the detachment started removing cabin tanks and taking over once again their station duties and the courier runs. The weather being good, planes and crews of the detachment accumulated a total of 3902 flying time and flew 615,809 miles. At Welford Park, England, the Group performed routine Station duties and physical fitness. Several non-operational flights for hauling personnel and supplies were made in connection with business of the Station and the Troop Carrier Command. WAR DFIARY 1 January 1944 To 31 January 1944 1 January 1944 2nd Lt. Anton (NMI) Toft, O-734625, AC, of the 43rd Troop Carrier Squadron was appointed Group Navigation Officer, as an additional duty, (S.O. #1). One aircraft and crew dispatched to Toome, North Ireland on a non operational flight 8 January 1944 Detachment “A” – preparations for departure to England are completed. Both air and ground echelons ready and are very eager to depart but no orders have been received. 9 January 1944 Detachment “A” – attached personnel operating all departments and operating smoothly. 10 January 1944 Detachment “A” = Col. McLelland departed via A.T.C. for England leaving Lt. Col. H. B. Lyon in Command of the detachment. 11 January 1944 F/O Nelson J. Legandyk, T-121438, AC of the 43rd Troop Carrier Squadron was detailed to act as Group Special Services Officer, vice 2nd Lt. Clinton R, Sipe. Detachment “A” – Following is a quotation from the diary of T/Sgt. John S. Stackewicz, 33150336, clerk in Group Operations. “Today is the blackest day in the history of the Group. Morale of the Group has reached an all time low. After extensive preparation for a month to return to the United Kingdom, the orders have been changed. Everybody is walking around with a long face. Back to the old routine, waiting for mail and now more rumors. C’est La Guerre” 12 January 1944 Detachment “A” – Equipment being unpacked, files and records being re-opened. Departments being taken back by the Detachment personnel. Cabin tanks being removed from aircraft, preparing to resuming regular runs. 12 January 1944 Detachment “A” – Weather ideal,- usual freight and courier runs. 14 January 1944 One aircraft and crew d9ispatched to Burtonwood, Cheshire to haul supplies. One aircraft and crew dispatch to Grantham, Nottinghamshire and one aircraft dispatched to Langar, Lincolnshire on business pertaining to Station 474, Welford Par. 19 January 1944 Sgt. James B. Wallace, 33049730, Chief Clerk in Group Intelligence Section was promoted to temporary grade of Staff Sergeant. (S.O. #8) 21 January 1944 Two aircraft and crews were dispatched on non-operational flights: one to Toome, northern Ireland, and one to Harlaxton, Lincolnshire. Detachment “A” – figures were compiled for the accomplishment of this detachment for the first seven months in Africa. Among their figures are: Total hours flown: 28,081:05 Total Air line miles flown: 4,547,733. An average of 18 mission was flown daily. 24 January 1944 Two aircraft and crews dispatched on non-operational missions: one to Harlaxton, Lincolnshire, and Heston, Middlesex; the other to Grove Berkshire and thence to Harlaxton, Lincolnshire/ the following officers were detailed to a board for the purposes of conducting examinations of flight officers who present application for appointment as officers I the Army of the United States: Major William R. Mandt, O-396577, AC, Major Edward M. Schwarin, O-662181, AC. Captain Allen Saunders, O-482120, MC. 1st Lt. Joseph R. Krysakowski, O-725888, AC. 1st Lt. Bert C. Saunders, O-789816, AC, Recorder. 25 January 1944 One aircraft and crew dispatched to Harlaxton, Lincolnshire on a non-operational mission. 26 January 1944 One aircraft and crews dispatched to Castle Kennedy, Scotland, and thence to Prestwick, Scotland to haul supplies. An escape and evasion exercise was held in which 53 glider pilots participated. They were dived into 88 groups and dropped at points outside a ten mile radius. 22 were successful in reaching Station Headquarters without being tagged. Detachment “A” – All personnel with over 800 hours overseas flying time were grounded today for an indefinite . causing a grace fling personnel shortage, tabulate as follow: Required Available Short Pilots 164 116 45 Radio Operators 82 53 29 Crew Chiefs 82 50 32 30 January 1944 One aircraft and crew dispatched to Harlaxton, Lincolnshire to transport personnel.

Historical Data 315th Troop Carrier Group 1 February 1944 To 29 February 1944

OUTLLINE HISTORY 1 February 1944 To 29 February 1944 1. ORGANIZATION: Pursuant to General Orders #2, Headquarters 315th Troop Carrier Group, dated 1 February 1944, the Group reorganized on 1 February 1944 in accordance with table of Organizational and Equipment 1-312, dated 4 November 1943. Effective 0001 hours 18 February 1944 this Group was relieved of assignment with the 5oth Troop Carrier Wing and assigned to the 52nd Troop carrier Wing by General Order #7, Headquarters IX Troop Carrier Command, dated 17 February. 2. STRENGTH: As of 29 February 1944: Officers: 110 Warrant Officers: 3 Flight Officers: 77 Enlisted Men: 463 3. MOVEMENTS: Pursuant to teletype message F 0018, Headquarters 50th Troop carrier Wing, dated 3 February 1944, this Group, minus Detachment “A”, departed Station 477 and arrived at Station 493 (Spanhoe, near Wakerly), Northamptonshire, England at 1600 hours, 7 February 1944. 4 LOSSES IN ACTION: Negative. 5. DECORATIONS AND AWARDS: Negative. ///

SUMMARY OF EVENTS 1 February 1944 To 29 February 1944 The Group, minus Detachment “A”, received orders on 3 February and completed movement to Station 3493 Spanhoe, (near Wakerly), Northamptonshire on 7 February. After the usual organizing and housekeeping duties attendant upon a move to a new station, the Group settled into rot9ine training program. Such non-operational flights for hauling personnel and supplies were made as require by the movement or designated by higher headquarters. Detachment “A” continued freight and courier runs in the Mediterranean area hampered by bad weather during nearly the entire month. During the latter part of the month preparations were again being made for a return to the Unite Kingdom. During the month, planes and crews of the Detachment covered 407,762 miles in 2,668:25 flying hours.

WAR DIARY 1 February 1944 To 29 February 1944

1 Feb 1944

A Flying Evaluation Board was appointed (SO #16, 1 Feb 1944) for the purpose of evaluating the professional proficiency of personnel who hold currently effective aeronautical ratings. The Board consisted of: Capt. Maurice L. Malins O-386203 MC 1st Lt. Edward F. Connelly o-790520 AC 1st Lt. Donald S. McBride O-669757 AC

3 Feb 1944

The following men of Group Headquarters were awarded Good Conduct Medals:

S/Sgt William H. Caulffield, 38376895 S/Sgt Walter E. Prinzing, 19070833 S/Sgt James B. Wallace, 39049730 Sgt William (NMI) Adams II38364312 Sgt Paul L. Andrews, 33013277 Sgt Henry E. Billnghurst, 34261866 Sgt Joseph E. Cadoza, 39120294 Sgt Robert E. Hedrick6998751 Sgt James E. Lewis, 6234693

Cpl Frank C. Baker, Jr. 39407763 Cpl Allen (NMI) Delane, 19068037 Cpl Dorris C. Gorham,35090182 Cpl Oro G. Haman, 37192639 Cpl Richard C. Mudge, 36397272 Cpl Kenneth H. Waggoner, 32251573 Pfc Noel R. Seim, 16050412 Pfc Earl (NMI) Thomas, 33234416

4 Feb 1944 5 Feb 1944 6 Feb 1944 7 Feb 1944 8 Feb 1944 9 Feb 1944 12 Feb 1944 13 Feb 1944 15 Feb 1944 17 Feb 1944 18 Feb 1944 19 Feb 1944 21 Feb 1944 22 Feb 1944 23 Feb 194 24 Feb 1944 26 Feb 1944 28 Feb 1944 29 Feb 1944

One aircraft and crew dispatched to Harlaxton, Lincolnshire to transport personnel. One aircraft and crew dispatched to Ramsbury, Berkshire to transport paratroops. One aircraft and crew dispatched to Spanhoe, Northamptonshire to transport advanced party of this Group. One aircraft and crew dispatched to Bottesford, Nottinghamshire to transport personnel. Three aircraft and crews were dispatcher to transport personnel of this Group to their new station at Spanhoe, Northamptonshire. Six aircraft an crews transported personnel of this Group to their new Station. Two aircraft and crews transported personnel of the Group to their new station. One aircraft and crew was dispatched to Wellford, Berkshire to transport personnel and supplies One aircraft and crews dispatched to Bottesford, Nottinghamshire to transport personnel. Col. McLelland, Group Commander, departed on a six day leave. 1st Lt Sanford (NMI) Friedman, O-563047, AC, reported to the Group and was assigned to headquarters. One aircraft and crew was dispatched to Wellford, Berkshire to transport personnel. 1st Lt. Giles E. Dawson, 582841, was detailed as Group Chemical warfare Officer 1st Lt. Sanford (NMI) Friedman was detailed as Group Statistical Officer. F/O George L. Priest, T-1220, AC, was detailed as Assistant Group Statistical Officer. F/O Harry R. Butler, T-1108, AC, was detailed as Group Building and Conservation Officer. F/O Charles W. Stanford, T-????, was detailed as Assistant Group Supply Officer. One aircraft and crew transported another crew from this Group to Preswick, Scotland for the purpose of ferrying aircraft. Two non-operational flights were here on station business to [???????} Norfolk and another to Wellford, Berkshire. Pfc Earl (NMI) Thomas 35234416 was promoted to temporary grade of Corporal. Detachment “A” = weather bad but most scheduled runs got off all right. Today is the second anniversary of the Group. The 34th troop Carrier Squadron has had a very successful banquet; attendance was large and included Group Headquarters men, all of whom were invited. The 43rd Troop Carrier Squadron held a dance, but not enough girls were available to go around in spite of which all had a good time as an abundance of beer made up for the shortage of women. Two aircraft and crews were dispatched, one to Mount Farms, Oxford, the other to Rodney, Suffolk, both to transport personnel. Two non-operational flights were on business of this Group. One proceeded to Bristol, the other to Greenham Common, Berkshire. Three aircraft and crews were dispatched on non-operational business pertaining to this Command. Detachment “A” – Lots of excitement in the evening. An RAF Hudson, upon arrival on a patrol, had its landing gear collapse. The plane immediately caught on fire and in a few moments the depth charges exploded and ten other aircraft caught fire. All ranks and grades of this detachment were busy moving our aircraft and assisting the R.A.F in fighting the fires. Most windows in our headquarters building were shattered by the blast. None of our aircraft were damaged. VOCG appointed 1st Lt. Robert E. Crone, O-790525, AC, the Group Operations Officer on 10 November 1943 were confirmed by Special Order #26 this Headquarters. One aircraft and crew proceeded to Woolfox Lodge, Lincolnshire to transport personnel. One aircraft and crew were dispatched to Chilbolton, Hampshire on a non-operational light. A new board was appointed to conduct examination of Flight Officers presenting applications for commission in the Army of the United States. The Board consists of: Capt. Maurice L. Melins, O-386203, MC Capt. William El SIims,O-290589, AC 1st Lt. Robert E. Crone, O-790525, AC 1st Lt. Donald S. McBride, O-669757, AC 2nd Lt. Jack B. Olds, O-737845, AC One aircraft and crew proceeded to Bottesford. Nottinghamshire to transport personnel. Detachment “A” – Today completes nine months of operations in NATOUSA and is the last day of our operation there. Personnel still very skeptical about returning to England as they remember the “Gas Tank Incident” of 11 January 1944. Two aircraft and crews were dispatched to Wellford Part to transport personnel [indiscernible] [indiscernible] ///

SUMMARY OF EVENTS 1 March 1944 To 31 March 1944 Detachment “A” – Two first few days of the month witnesses feverish activity in preparation for departure to England; all personnel being relieved from regular duties on 2 March 1944 upon receipt of definite order to move. By 18 March the movement was completed. Upon their return the men of the Detachment, having worked exceptionally hard over a . of nearly ten months, with a minimum of recreational facilities and very few passes, were granted leaves and furloughs up to seven days to prepare them for the strenuous training program being prepared. This portion of the Group at Spanhoe continued Station duties and training programs for both ground and fling personnel, preparing for the reception of Detachment “A”, organizing and reorganizing sections and departments so that the reunited organization could undertake smoothly whatever program might be undertaken. Seventy-three non-operational missions, hauling freight to personnel were accomplished.

OUTLLINE HISTORY 1 March 1944 To 31 March 1944 1. ORGANIZATION: Negative 2. STRENGTH: As of 31 March 1944: Officers: 188 Warrant Officers: 3 Flight Officers: 84 Enlisted Men: 593 3. MOVEMENTS: Detachment “A” (1) Ground Echelon: Pursuant to VOCG AFHQ, 2 March 1944, and TWX No.0719, Headquarters MAAF (rear)dated 3 March 1944, the Ground Echelon departed Blida, Algeria at 125 hours 6 March 1944. Disembarkation was at Liverpool, England at 2215 hours 17 March 1944. The Detachment immediately entrained and arrived at Station 493, Spanhoe, Northamptonshire at 0730 on 18 arch 1944. (2) Ari Echelon: Pursuant to VOCG AFHQ, 2 March 1944 and TWX No. 0719, Headquarters MAAF (rear) dated 3 March 1944, the Air Echelon of the Detachment departed Blida, Algeria for England; the first aircraft taking off on 8 March 1944 and prceeding via Gibraltar and St. Mawren, England to Spanhoe, Northamptonshire, England. First arrival of the Detachment arrived at Station 493, Spanhoe, Northamptonshire on 11 march and on 14 March 1944 the movement was competed. 4 LOSSES IN ACTION: Negative. 5. DECORATIONS AND AWARDS: Negative. ///

WAR DIARY 1 March 1944 To 31 March 1944

1 Mar 1944

There were four promotion in Headquarters today. The following men were promoted to the temporary grade of Sergeant” Cpl. Alvin E. Becker, 13088507, Cpl. Fred (NMI) Manzo, 35389932, and Cpl. Fred L. Thomas, 35413480. Pfc James M. Hanna, 34362220, was promoted to temporary grade of corporal. 1st Lt. Phillip W. Hogdon, O-856898, reported to the Group and was assigned to Headquarters. One non-operational mission was flown today. Detachment “A” – Today, all assigned personnel ceased operations. Cabin tanks are to be installed and planes modified for the return tri to the United Kingdom. The 43rd Squadron is to take then lanes; the 34th to take 11 planes. The balance of the planes assigned to the Group are to be turned over to the 77th Service Squadron who will take over the operation of the Blida Airdrome.

2 Mar 1944

Two non-operational mission were dispatched today. Detachment “A” – Lt. Col. Gibbon and major Peterson departed for Foggia, Italy to try to speed j orders for our return to England. Telephone call was received from Center Section, Mediterranean Base Service, asking that they be furnished with a list of the men who were to return to England by boat. Major messenger and Lt. Conquest took down the list, and were told that those men would leave on the 6th. Having no orders for the move, they went to A.F.H.Q. where they were told in no uncertain terms that the Capetown Castel was loading on 6 March and they had better be on board. – VOCG.

3 Mar 1944

Two aircraft were dispatched on Non-operational mission. Activity is feverish, packing and modifying our aircraft. The 77th Service Squadron took over all sections and departments.

4 Mar 1944

1st lt. Guilford (N I) Collison, O-913031 who was transferred to Headquarters IX Troop Carrier Command last November, was transferred back and reported today, being assigned to Group Headquarters. S/Sg.t James P. Bales, 16030764, was promoted to temporary grade of Technical Sergeant. Two aircraft and crews were dispatched on non-operational mission. A P-38 aircraft piloted by 2nd Lt. Albert R. Fogg, made an attempt to land on a single engine at this airfield, but overshot and tried to climb and turn into his dead engine, hoping to shoot a landing on another runway. His attempt was uncessful and the aircraft crashed in the midst of extensive construction diggings about one fourth of a mile from the field. The fire truck and two jeeps raced to the scene, cutting through a wheat field and going as far as the ravine make by some mining operations the ravine was about sixty feet deep and about one undred feet across and it was only possible to get to the pilot by crawling down a ladder and up the other side. The pilot was alive but was stuck in the cockpit. His foot was caught between the rudder and the control mechanism. The engine was burning fiercely; there was gasoline scattered over the area and there were hundreds of rounds of live ammunition in the ammo cans. When the men arrive,. Lt. Fogg warned them to get away as explosion was imminent, but the soldiers and an English civilian, rushed to the aircraft, kept the fire under control and got Lt. Fogg out of the cockpit. The courage and swift action of these men probably saved the life of Lt. Fogg. As a result of this, one officer and two men of Group Headquarters are being recommend for the Soldier’s medal. They are: Capt. Maurice L. Mulins, O-386203, Sgt. Alvin E. Becker, 13088507, and S/Sgt. James B. Wallace, 33049730. (For further information see PRO release 8501, dated 21 March 1944, from Headquarter Etousa.)

5 Mar 1944

Two aircraft and crews were dispatched to haul personnel and freight. Detachment “A” – The Detachment is all packed and the organization equipment and baggage to go by boat is taken to the dock where no help is available to unload it in spite of hundreds of Arabs standing around doing nothing. Officers, non-coms, and truck drivers finally wrestled the equipment off the trucks. Ground Echelon of the Detachment restricted to the post.

5 Mar 1944

One non-operational flight made today. Detachment “A” – Ground Echelon departed Blida at 1215 hours. It was a good thing that they got an early start as it was market day at Boufarik and the roads were full of mangy cattle and sheep. They loaded on the Capetown Castle at 1415 hours and both officers and men got the best quarters on the boat. They expected to pull out that evening but remained at the dock at Algiers

7 Mar 1944

1st Lt. Bernard T. Wheeler, O-410348, AC, was transferred from the 34th Tr Carr Squadron to Group Headquarters. Lt. Wheeler has been acting as Ground Glider Officer and his work has been so splendid that he will be continued in that capacity. Two aircraft and crews were dispatched today to haul freight and personnel. Detachment “A” – The portion of the Detachment on the boat was very pleasantly surprised by both the quantity and quality of the food as we had feared “British Rations”. Major Messenger was very unpleasantly surprised to learn that he was the senior American Officer aboard and was appointed as American O.C.T. The previous night six prisoners being taken to England by a casual detachment disappeared over the side add to his troubles. One was caught by the M.P’s in Algiers and returned before sailing at approximately 1600 hours.

8 Mar 1944

Detachment “A” –The first aircraft of the flight echelon took off today on the Capetown Castle, the men registered a complaint that they were getting tea three times a day and no coffee. Complaint was relayed to the British O.O.T. and coffee was served at supper and daily at breakfast thereafter.

10 Mar 1944

Two aircraft and crews dispatched to Fulbeck, Lincolnshire to transport personnel.

11 Mar 1944

One plane and crew dispatched to Greenham common, Berkshire. Detachment “A” – Lt. Col. Robert J. Gibbons piloted the first plane to rejoin the unit at Spanhoe.

13 Mar 1944

One plane and crew dispatched to Cottesmore, Lincolnshire to transport personnel.

14 Mar 1944

One non-operational flight dispatch today.

15 Mar 1944

One plane and crew dispatched to North Witham, Nottinghamshire on non-operational flight. There was a movie on the post tonight, “City Without Men”. There were tow showings, one for Officers end one form EM.

16 Mar 1944

Word has spread that all personnel of Detachment “A” are to be given seven day furloughs and morale reaches a new peak. Three non-operational flights were dispatched.

17 Mar 1944

One no-operational flight today. The movie tonight was “They All Kissed the Bride” – old but good.

18 Mar 1944

There is rejoicing and merry making today as finally the ground echelon of Detachment “A” has rejoined the Group. Feeling runs high, with old friends greeting each other after nearly ten month separation. 1si Lt. Wilfred W. Fry, O-563053, AC, was transferred into Group Headquarters from the 34th Tr Carr Squadron. He will act as Group Adjutant, a function he performed with Detachment “A” in a most satisfactory manner. 1st Lt. Robert E. Crone, O-790525m /Ac, was also transferred for the 34th Tro Carr Squadron to Group Headquarters. Lt Crone acts as S-3 from November 1943 to the return of Lt Col. Gibbons and Detachment “A” and will now be used as Assistant S-3.

19 Mar 1944

Special Order # 41 relieved all officers of the Group of previously assigned duties and detailed the duties anew. Among others, your Historian finds he has the lovely job. Twenty-five Home Guardsmen were entertained and toured the field. Capt. George C. Kimball being in charge.

21 Mar 1944

The pilots’ Lounge was formally opened today. The S-2 Section is proud of their “baby” which provides comfortable surroundings for the flying personnel where they can have access directly to intelligence materials and situation maps. It can also double as a briefing room

25 Mar 1944

A number of aircraft and crews from the 60th and 62nd Troop Carrier Groups have been reporting in to this Group and are being assigned to Group Headquarters pending clarification of their status

26 Mar 1944

There is much wailing and worrying today. The Daily Bulletin directed the registration of all dogs with the Prost Marshall. Detachment “A” men brought a varied assortment of must, which never the less, are valuable dogs in the eyes of the owners and the rumor is that they will be “disposed of” (Later – the rumor was correct.)

30 Mar 1944

A dance was held on the poste for all Enlisted Men.

31 Mar 1944

A busy day in Operations with 18 non-operational flights. ///

OUTLLINE HISTORY 1 April 1944 To 29 April 1944 1 - ORGANIZATION: Pursuant to General Orders #116, IX Air Force 22 April 1944 and letter by U.S.T.A.F. file 328, 26 April 1944 and War Department cable 26939, 23 April 1944, and General Order #5, 315th Troop Carrier Group dated 30 April 1944, the 309th Troop Carrier Squadron and 310th Troop Carrier Squadron were activated as of 26 April 1944 and assigned to the 315th Trop Carrier Squadron and organized on 30 April 1944 under Table of Organization and Equipment 1-317, incorporating Change 1, 2, and 3 of 16 August 1943. 2 - STRENGTH: As of 29 February 1944: ASSIGNED ATTACHED TOTAL 934 33 Officers: 197 3 Warrant Officers: 3 0 Flight Officers: 63 0 Enlisted Men: 651 30 3 - MOVEMENTS: None. 4 - LOSSES IN ACTION: None. 5 - DECORATIONS AND AWARDS: None. ///

SUMMARY OF ACTIVITES 1 April 1944 To 29 April 1944 The entire month was devoted to intensive training program, ground school being stressed the first part of the month due to bad weather. Most training was in glider towing and formation flying with stress laid on tight formations. Considerable training was also given on navigation aids and methods. During the last few days of the month, the organization of the two new squadrons caused considerable activity around Group Headquarters. ///

WAR DIARY 1 April 1944 To 29 April 1944

1 Apr 1944 2 Apr 1944

Pfc. Robert F. Strobel, 35329412, was promoted to temporary grade of Sergeant. Privates Joseph A. Boyer, 39135386, and James W. Williams, 1401085-, were promoted to Pfc (temporary). 1st Lt. Joseph Pl Harris, O-863376, AC, reported in and was assigned to Headquarters. Lt. Harris has had radar training. Sgt. Lewis G. Pappas, 11016381, also reported on orders from IX Troop carrier Command, and was assigned to Headquarters. Weather today was very bad for flying. We now have a total of 61 aircraft 30 CG 4A gliders and 5 Horsas assigned to the Group.

3 Apr 1944

Weather still bad. Rigid training schedule now in effect. Maj. Thomas J. Haart, O-278958, was relieved as Adjutant to resume his duties as Executive Officer of the 34th Troop Carrier Squadron. 1st. Lt. Wilfred W. Fry, O-563053, was assigned the duties of Group Adjutant which he very capably performed for Detachment “A” in Africa.

4 Apr 1944

Four aircraft transferred from the Group leaving us a total of 57. Weather still bad for flying. 1st Lt. F. C. Melton, Jr., O-790088, was appointed Assistant Group S-4. Lt. Melton gained his experience in supply acting as Supply Officer for the 34th Troop carrier Squadron Detachment in Africa. Much excitement of the base tonight due to the arrival of the Medical Evacuation unit including 25 real live nurses.

5 Apr 1944

Weather is till bad for flying but ground school is in full swing. Lt. L/ T. Campbell, Jr. and Lt. John D. Conquest received notice of their promotions to Captains and all Headquarters helped them celebrate the occasion. F/O Robert W. Best, T-1089, was transferred from 34th to Headquarters and was assigned primary duty of Group glider Engineering Officer. 1st Lt. Bernard T. Wheeler, O-410348, was appointed Group Glider Operations Officer. Other Group duties were assigned as additional duties to Capt. L. T. Campbell, Jr., O-789678, Unit Claims Officer: Capt. John L. Roland, O=904566, Legal Assistance Officer; and 1st Lt. roger S. Chapman, O-790072, Asst Special Service Officer.

6 Apr 1944

Weather still bad. Ten C-53’s were transferred out of the Group and one C-47 received. Major General Royce and Brigadier General Clark visited the Station and the Group. the short notice precluded any preparations for their visit and they saw us as we are every day.

7 Apr 1944

The weather was fine for a change and we spent the day in glider towing and formation fly8ing.

9 Apr 1944

Weather again very bad. Two cubs were forced to land in a field and one was completely washed out. Fortunately no one received any injury except for minor bumped and scratches.

10 Apr 1944

Night formation flying started tonight with Operations planned over the showing after such a long lay-off. Evacuation nurses and Doctors of the 818th Medical Air Evacuation Transport Squadron were attached to the Group for flying duty.

11 Apr 1944

All Headquarters were given a Security lecture.

12 Apr 1944

F/O Robert Best was transferred to the 34th Tr Carrier Squadron. 1st Lt. Giles Dawson was relieved from Group Chemical Warfare. 1st Lt. Richard W. Bettis, O-393708, detailed to Asst Group S-4 (Glider) and Group Armament Officer. F/O Robert W. Best, T-1089, was also named as Asst Group S-4 (Glider). 1st Lt. Richard F. Balcumes, O=1635308, SC, was made Group Investigating Officer.

13 Apr 1944

The Group Aircraft recognition officers started a two-day school at Grantham. We had the bad news today that all passes were cancelled and there is much waiting and speculation.

16 Apr 1944

1st Lt. Bernard F. Balcumes, O-1635308, was appointed Adjutant of Headquarters Squadron

17 Apr 1944

The 315th Troop Carrier Group Defense Platoon (Prov)was formed with 1st Lt. Bartley D. Reinhardt, O-339348, I command and with Cat. George C. Kimball, O-902658, acting as Liaison Officer between Lt. Reinhardt and the Group Commander. The platoon was organized with two officer and twenty-three enlisted men selected for their proficiency in ground military training.

21 Apr 1944

Today marked the first softball game of the season for Group Headquarters with the officers accepting a challenge from the enlisted men. Score 1-0 in favor of the officers who uses only three “ringer”.

27 Apr 1944

The first softball game for Headquarters enlisted men in the regular Station schedule was played tonight and they lost to the 818th Medical Evacuation Unit. News has reached the Group of the two new Squadrons and in addition to much activity around Headquarters there is considerable speculation about who is going to get what jobs.

28 Apr 1944

The Headquarters officer beat the 43rd in a scheduled softball game. 8-4. The “old man” from Hq probably won’t be able to walk tomorrow. ///

S E C R E T HEADQUARTERS 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP OFFICE OF THE COMANDIBNG OFFICER APO 133 U.S. ARMY 30 April 1944 GENERAL ORDER ) NUMBER . . . 5) 1. Per General Order No. 316. Headquarters 9th Air Force dated 26 April 1944, the 309th and 310 Troop Carrier Squadrons are assigned to the IX Troop Carrier Command effective 26 April 1944 and further assigned to the 315th Troop Carrier Group. 2. Pursuant to authority contained in General Order No. 316, Headquarters Ninth Air Force, dated 26 April 1944; verbal orders of the Commanding General IX Troop Carrier Command and XXXX 52nd Troop Carrier Wing subj: “Organization of 309th and 310th troop Carrier Squadrons , dated 29 April 1944, the following units are hereby organized and assigned to the 315th Troop Carrier Group: 309th Troop Carrier Squadron 310th Troop Carrier Squadron 3. Table of Organization and Equipment 1-317, changes 1, 2, and 3, 16 August 1943 will be used as a guide for the organization of this unit, and grades and ratings authorized therein will be not be exceeded. Filler personnel and equipment will be requisitioned in the normal manner. 4. The provisions of AR 345-400, dated 7 May 1943; AR 345-900, dated 22 May 1943; and Adv Cir 66 Headquarters SOS, ETOUSA, dated 14 September 1943, will be complied with where applicable. HAMISH MCLELLAND Colonel, Air Corps, Commander

HEADQUARTERS 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP OFFICE OF THE COMANDIBNG OFFICER APO 133 U.S. ARMY 9 April 1944 GENERAL ORDER ) NUMBER . . . 60) 1. VOCO, 31 March 1944 removing the fol named EM, orgns indicated, fr flying status off 31 March 1944, are hereby confirmed and made a matter of record, the exigencies of the service having precluded the issuance of orders in advance.

M/Sgt Joseph G. Gusky 6852172 M/Sgt Lawrence Ison 15090502 MORE names TO BE ADDED

S/Sgt Douglas E. Harrod 370123704 S/Sgt Joseph Lemborg 32235934

OUTLLINE HISTORY 1 May 1944 To 31 April 1944 1 - ORGANIZATION: The 309th and 310th Troop Carrier Squadrons activated in May 1044, were assigned personnel on I June 1944. Major Smylie C. Stark, O-421645, assumed command of the 309thTroop Carrier Squadron; Major Henry G. Hamby, Jr. O-421692, assumed command of the 310th Troop Carrier Squadron. 2 - STRENGTH: As of 29 February 1944: ASSIGNED ATTACHED TOTAL . . . . 1338 . . . . . . 57 Officers: 228 . . . . . . 4 Warrant Officers: 3 . . . . . . 0 Flight Officers: 79 . . . . . . 0 Enlisted Men: 1028 . . . . . . 53 3 - MOVEMENTS: None. 4 - LOSSES IN ACTION: None. 5 - DECORATIONS AND AWARDS: None.

315th Troop Carrier Command SUMMARY OF EVENTS 1 May 1944 to 31 May 1944 The month has been entirely devoted to an extensive training program covering both flying and ground school. Several training maneuvers were flown and most attention was given to night formation flying. Training program was complicated by the two new Squadrons and wide divergence in training between our older personnel and the new men assigned to the new Squadrons.

315th TROOP CARARIER GROUP WAR DIARY 1 May 1944 To 29 May 1944

1 May 1944

Our two newly activated squadrons were organized today with personnel of Headquarters, 34th and 43rd Squadrons. Transferred from Headquarters to the 309th Troop Carrier Squadron were Major Smylie C. Stark, O-421645, and Capt. George C. Kimball, O-982658,the former to command the Squadron and the latter to be Executive Officer. Major Stark was a member of the original cadre for this Group. Capt. Kimball joined the Group in the early days in Louisville. Major Henry G. Hamby, Jr. O-421692, another member of the original cadre was transferred to the 310th Troop Carrier Squadron which he will command. All are splendid officers and gentlemen, and the Group personnel are very happy that in their new positions, there will be an opportunity for promotions.

3 May 1944

1st Lt. ALbert T. Caldwell, O-996280, and 1st Lt. Joseph G. MennierO-650563, joined the Group on order from the 52nd Wing and were assigned to Headquarters. Headquarters enlisted men moved twice tonight and are not very happy. they finally wound up in Nisse n nuts in Site #3, which are not so nice as the barracks they formerly occupied; but the general opinion is “C’est la guerre”.

4 May 1944

Headquarters is low today as it appears we are losing one of our best officers – Major C. O. Bugden, affectionately referred to as “The Old Man”. “C.O.” is a retread from World War I and for several months has been ill but has deligently avoided a check up, fearing what might and now has happened – that he would be transferred to a detachment of patients. He is apparently homeward bound. Capt. Victor A. Holshauser, O-398893, was transferred from the 34th T. C. Squadron to Hq and appointed Liaison Officer with additional duties as Camouflage and Oxygen Officer

6 May 1944

Busy day preparing for paratroop drop tonight – Exercise TUCK. Paratroops milling about Hq area and really “sweating it out” as the wind is fairly high. Exercise itself was successful, 48 aircraft taking off at 1930 hours and returning at 2150 hours (last plane down)with no damage, casualties, or notable difficulties.

7 May 1944

Held critique on Exercise “TUCK”. Paratroop officers well pleased in addition to which Brigadier General Clark sent down a word of praise. The Group designated today as “315th” day and in spite of most personnel being u ;late last night, attendance at Church was gratifyingly high

8 May 1944

Another exercise tonight – this time in the dark, with 41 aircraft with 874 paratroopers, taking off at 2230 hours returning 0140 hours, 9 May 1944. Confirmation of VOCO IX Troop Carrier Command assigning the 309th and 310th Troop Carrier Squadrons to this group received. (S.O. #214, IX TCC, 8 May 1944).1st Lt. F. C. Melton, Jr., 790088, was relieved as Assistant Group S-4.

9 May 1944

The R.A.F. Liaison Officer at Wing loaned to us Sgt. Cyril Walker, who has had experience on target information with the R.A.F. Bomber Command. He is helping us file and cross-index tactical target information. Held critique of las tonight’s drop and this time received no praise from higher Hq. Many group duties were shuffled around today mainly due to transfer of personnel to the two new squadrons and on influx on new personnel. (See par 1 and 14 of S.O.82 this Hq)

10 May 1944

Headquarters Squadron had a formation this morning at which they got “the works” – security, V.D., Articles of War, etc.

11 May 1944

Very busy day preparing for Exercise “EAGLE”. Which we are tryi9ng to make as realistic as a dry run can be. In fact, u until the time that it was discovered that only a token load of paratroopers were to be carried, many thought it was the real thing. Brig. General Clark of the 52nd Tr Carr Wing dropped in to our briefing in the afternoon. The guard at the briefing room door had a chance to make himself famous by excluding him but decided that discretion was the better part of valor. 48 aircraft took off at 2230 hours on “EAGLE” exercise.

12 May 1944

All planes were down at 0437 hours and as far as this group was concerned we considered the mission a failure. Based on critique held at Wing, however, we discovered that we weren’t so bad as we though. Major Hunter U.S.T.A.F. visited the group and Station on security matters. We don’t know what he thought of us, but he gave us some good suggestions.

13 May 1944

2nd Lt. Fred B. Morgan, O-1002608, AGC, was appointed Education Officer for Headquarters Squadron.

14 May 1944

Lt Col. Whittridge of IX Air Force visited the Group to check our Orientation program – was apparently satisfied.

15 May 9144

Today was the Colonel’s birthday and the party held at the Officer’s Club was really a surprise. To him. No reflection on his age, but the cake was big enough for everyone to have piece.

16 May 1944

Learned that we are to have practice move tomorrow – so equipment is being packed tonight. Hq had a meeting at 1930 and men issued carbines and ammunition, and assigned to air or ground echelons. Everyone having trouble trying to find space to pack the stuff they have accumulated in the several months overseas. Lots of articles for sale cheap.

17 May 1944

Today we had our “dry run” move – in the rain as usual. Everything moved and moved back on schedule, but noby very happy about it.

18 May 1944

Group S-2 and Group S-3 traded offices which gives both sections a better working arrangement, with S-2 getting more room and S-3 getting more heat.

20 May 9144

1st Lt. Norman W. Belon, O-854856, was relieved of his duties as commandant of Hq Squadron, and Group Communications Officer and transferred to the 34th T. C. Squadron. Capt. James W. Malloy, O-854818, was transferred from the 34th to Group and made Communications Officer. 1st Lt. Bernard R. Darou?? O-1695908, S.C., was named commandant of Headquarters Squadron.

21 May 1944

Word went round that another training mission is coming p and planning is started. Today.

22 May 1944

Capt. Clifton L. Glams, O-726962, was transferred from Hq to the 310th T. Cl Squadron where he will again be with the men from the 62nd TC Group that he brought up from Sicily.

23 May 1944

Practice mission scheduled for tonight cancelled because of weather.

24 May 1944

Capt. William J. Cerren, O-918916, was assigned to the group in orders from 52nd TC Wing. He will be Assistant Group S-2 Officer. Another dry run or practice mission tonight due to weather.

26 May 1944

Another practice mission “ROCKET” tonight for which briefing was held in the afternoon. Thirty-six aircraft took off without mishap, starting at 2230 hours.

27 May 1944

“ROCKET” exercise was completed at 0120 hours and was very successful, although two lanes di not complete mission, one having engine trouble and the other losing formation when his flight leader’s formation lights went “haywire”.

28 May 1944

The Group made its first glider pick ups today.

29 May 1944

The Station finally has another mess hall, so our Group now has its own mess and the chow lines are a lot smaller. Hq officers were all set to play the enlisted men a game of softball but a bunch of unexpected duties forced postponement. R.A.F. Sgt. Armstrong was loaned to us by the Wing to further assist in assembling tactical target information. Tonight the A.R.C. “Doughnut Dugout” on the post and its formal opening. It is a very nice spot and many of the men have contributed their spare time to fixing it up.

30 May 1944

Memorial Day – just another day in the E.T.O. – no bands no parades. Ten new crews, fresh from the States, reported in today to further complicate a training program already very complex because of the divergence of training between the two new and two old Squadrons. Very good U.S.O. show at the new Red Cross Club tonight. [indiscernible] ///

OUTLLINE HISTORY 1 June 1944 To 30 June 1944 1 - ORGANIZATION: Negative. 2 - STRENGTH: As of 29 February 1944: ASSIGNED ATTACHED TOTAL . . . . 1366 . . . . . . 36 Officers: 258 . . . . . . 3 Warrant Officers: 3 . . . . . . 0 Flight Officers: 39 . . . . . . 0 Enlisted Men: 1071 . . . . . . 53 3 - MOVEMENTS: None. 4 - LOSSES IN ACTION: None. 5 - DECORATIONS AND AWARDS: Pursuant to General Order #152, Headquarters IX Air Force, 2 June 1944, a Soldier’s Medal was awarded to Capt. Maurice Mullins, O-386203, T/Sgt. James Wallace, 33049730, Sgt. Alvin K. Becker, 13088507, in recognition of heroism displayed at U.S.A.A.F. Station 493 on 4 March 1944. When a P38type aircraft crashed in flames on the edge of a deep ravine, those members of the 315th Troop Carrier Group, realizing the urgency of affecting prompt rescue of the pilot, hastened to the scene of the accident and, disregarding the pilot’s warning that the aircraft was in eminent danger of exploding, gallantly struggled to extricate to trapped pilot and, when his release had been affected, assisted in extinguishing the flames. By their prompt and courageous action they were successful in saving the pilot’s life, and their unhesitating devotion to duty reflects great credit both to themselves and the service.

315th TROOP CARARIER GROUP WAR DIARY 1 June 1944 To 29 June 1944

5 June 1944 7 June 1944 8 June 1944 9 June 1944 10 June 1944 19 June 1944 20 June 1944 22 June 1944 23 June 1944 28 June 1944

[Original writing was indiscernible] This is it! Tomorrow may be D-Day officially, and for us it’s tonight. Briefing was held in the pilot’s lounge at 1300 hours for pilots, copilots, navigators, and jump masters. Maj. Gen. Ridgway of the 82nd Airborne Division attended and spoke at the briefing. The briefing for out unit was conducted by Col. McLelland, Lt. Col. gibbons (who did a masterful job)and Major Messenger. Immediately after the briefing, maps, escape aids, etc. were issued and these officers escorted to the mess and officer’s club which were cleared of all unbriefed personnel and were guarded by M.P.s . Simultaneously with the briefing of pilots, co-pilots and navigators, the radio operators were being issued necessary information and flimsies and they and the crew chiefs were segregated from unbriefed personnel. At 1730 hours, they were further Group and Squadron Communications and Intelligence Officers [indiscernible] Routine day. Restriction is till on as we are alerted for operations with a unit of the English 1st Airborne Division. Col. McLelland, Lt. Col. Gibbons, Major Messenger and Captain Melley attended General Clark’s briefing at Wing for the mission “Wild Oats” and upon returning immediately set up the necessary information in the briefing room. Later in the day, the mission was scrubbed, for which we are all thankful as it looked like a pretty rugged deal. Restriction was lifted today and passes from 1800 hours to 0600 hours authorized. Everyone was eager to get off the station and many were disappointed as sufficient crews had to be held available for our commitments. All Squadrons had a clothing and equipment check and immediately rumors started; moving up to India, France, and back to the States. [indiscernible] ///

WAR DIARY 315TY TROOP CARRIER GROUP 1 July 1944 to 31 July 1944

1 July

Several promotions in the group today including the following headquarters: TO BE SEARGENT (TEMPORARY) Cpl Raymond L Flynn 17 040 438 (405) TO BE CORPORAL (TEMPORARY) Pfc Albert D. jobson 33 910 002 (303) PFC Harry C. Van Horn Jr. 38 343 121 (405) TO BE PRIVATE FIRST CLASS (TEMPORARY) Pvt John M. Pugh 36 595 824 (345) Pvt Wesley W. 19 185 143 )675)

3 July

Activity at a minimum due to continued rain. Lt. Slater of the 309th Tr Carr Squadron received the Purple Heart for wounds received on D-Day. In spite of the rain there was a long queue at the PX for the 1 lb box of candy placed on sale today.

4 July

Independence day, but there was no official observance nor interruption of usual duties . the finishing touches were put on the new group briefing room which will be maintained jointly by sS-2 and S-3.

6 July

Four members of the group, but none from Hq received Air Medals for their D Day activities with the Pathfinders. Staff meeting today but most of the matters disgusted were stationed rather than grope business.

8 July

Today 193 member of theis group received the Air Metal, among them being: Capt Lawrence T Campbell Jr, O-789768 Capt Victor A Holshauer, O-398893 Twenty one members of the group received Oak Leaf Clusters to the Air Metal, among them Capt William L Brinson comma O-789667. Six C-47’s were dispatched at 1430 hours on Wing Mission 243, hauled 19, 533 lbs of aircraft parts to France and returned empty and without incident at 2215 hours. A training mission with 369 Polish paratroops (Burden “A”) was dispatched at 2130 hours and returned at 2305. 33 aircraft were used and results were not up to our standard as due to switch of lights on lead aircraft of one of our squadrons. 129 troops were dropped at I.P. instead of DZ. The mission was marred by a bad accident in the 309th Squadron, two aircraft colliding in mid-air and 26 Paratroops 8 crew members from this group being killed.

9 July 10 July

Mission with Polish paratroops scheduled for tonight was postponed because of weather. Training mission “Burden B” with Polish paratroops again postponed. Funeral services were held at Cambridge today for the 8 men killed on 8 July.

11 July

Training mission again postponed because of weather.

12 July

34 aircraft participated in training exercise “Burden C” dropping paratroops. Results were generally but not completely satisfactory as six aircraft had to make a second pass at the DZ and then dropped their troops a half mile away. Mission was dispatched at 2131 hours and completed at 2258 hours.

13 July

Five navigators from the Group, all of whom volunteered for the assignment were transferred to IX Bomber Command. Training mission “Burden B” several times postponed was run tonight, 34 aircraft being dispatched at 2155 hours, carrying 380 polish paratroops and completing mission successfully at 2309 hours.

14 July

The Distinguished Flying Cross was awarded to Colonel Hamish McLelland, O-277350, Group Commander, who led our group on D Day. Two transport missions to France were made today. Wing Mission 272, involving just one aircraft was dispatched at 1203 hours, took 3600 lbs mixed freight over and returned with 24 Litter Patients. Mission completed at 2009 hours. Six aircraft were dispatched at 1145 hours on Wing Mission 273 returning at 2255 hours. 23,146 lbs mixed freight were taken over and 59 Litter Patients returned without incident.

15 July

The following promotions were made in group headquarters: TO BE SERGEANT PARENT TEMPORARY Cpl Irving Cohen 12 142 702 (405) Cpl James M Hhannah 34 362 220 (807) TO BE CORPORAL TEMPORARY Pvt Norris E Shepherd 32 267 686 (060) TO BE PRIVATE FIRST CLASS TEMPER TEMP Pvt Reuben L Antunez 39 533 800 (237) Pvt Jay W Powell 34 312 058 (345)

16 July

Training exercise tonight - “Darien 2” in which we used 36 aircraft to drop 395 Polish paratroops and 28 bundles. Results were good to very good and there were no mishaps.

18 July

Training exercise “Darien 3” was run tonight with 27 aircraft dropping 376 Polish paratroops and 10 bundles. Route and timing were the same as “Darien 2”, mission was completed at 2206 and results were excellent.

19 July

52 aircraft were dispatched at 1630 hours on Wing Mission 303, a freight hall to the beachhead from Ramesbury and Aldermaston to carry 217,412 lbs of ammunition. Bad weather grounded the aircraft at Ramesbury and Aldermasten.

20 July 21 July

Bad weather kept the planes from the beachhead grounded. Still unable to complete mission 303 due to weather.

23 July

Mission 303 finally completed, the last aircraft returning at 1515 hours. In addition to hauling 217,412 pound lbs of ammunition to Normandy, our planes returned 20,300 lbs of mail, 116 Litter Patients, 168 Walking Pataients, and 7 fighter pilots to the U.K. Two aircraft were damaged in a landing accident on the beachhead but no personnel were injured. One aircraft is repairable but the other is a washout.

24 July

Wing Mission 321 involving 39 aircraft on a freight hall to Normandy from Greenham Common was dispatched at 1600 hours. By 2330 hours 19 of the aircraft had completed their mission and returned.

25 July

At 2253 hours the last aircraft on Wing Mission 321 returned. On this mission our aircraft hauled 186,937 lbs of mixed ordnance and medical supplies over but all returned empty. At 1516 hours 22 of our aircraft took off from Greenham Common to load for Normandy on Wing Mission 324. Twelve of these aircraft had completed their mission and returned at 2315 hours.

26 July

Wing Mission 324 was completed at 1515 hours today. 99,753 lbs of mixed freight and one passenger were carried to Normandy and one passenger brought back to U.K.

27 July

Twenty nine aircraft took off at 1600 hours on Wing Mission 343. Three completed the mission today and return at 2240 hours.

28 July

Wing Mission 343 completed but we washed out one aircraft in a takeoff accident at Membury - no personnel injures. One of the other planes made two trips to Normandy in order to deliver the load of the crashed plane. 131,474 lbs of freight were taken over and 138 Litter Patients, 45 Walking Pataients, 2 passengers, and 1 Jeep returned to the U.K. on this mission. Twenty minutes after being given take-off time by Wing, 32 aircraft took-off for Wilford Park and Normandy, on Wing Mission 344. Twenty of them were in by 2239 hours.

29 July

Wing Mission 344 completed at 192 hours, having hauled 150,424 lbs of mixed freight to be the beachhead with a return load of 38,792 lbs of bomb fuses which appear to be going in the wrong direction. At 1600 hours we dispatched 20 aircraft on Wing Mission 351 to the Continent, load to be picked up at Greenham Common. At 2315 hours, eight of these had completed mission

30 July

Mission 351 Completed, hauled 92,189 lbs mixed freight over and evacuated 27 walking patients and 88 Litter Patients.

31 July

Payday - but quiet as the War Bond officers are trying to relieve everyone of surplus cash so we can make our quota on the current drive. No mission today for a change but glider tow and training as usual. ///

OUTTLINE HISTORY 315 Troop Carrier Group 1 August 1944 To 31 August 1944 1 - ORGANIZATION: Negative 2 - STRENGTH: Assigned Attached Total: . . . . . . . . 1454 11 Officers: 316 4 Warrant Officers: 1 4 Flight Officers: 9 0 Enlisted man: 1128 7 4 - LOSSES IN ACTION: None 5 - AWARDS AND DECORATIONS: (a) Group Citation: Under the provisions of section ivy comma circular 333 comma for department comma 1943 comma this group was cited for outstanding performance of duty and action against the enemy. The citation reads as follows: The 315 Troop Carrier Group. For outstanding performance of duty and action against the enemy on the night of 5-6 June 1944. Members of the group headquarters, and of the 34th, 43rd, 309th and 310th Troop Carrier Squadrons of the 315th Troop Carrier Group performed 48 sorties in the mass Troop Carrier vanguard of the invasion of the European Continent. Despite alerted enemy defense's, intense anti-aircraft fire and the extreme hazards of low altitude flying in adverse weather conditions and over water, members of this group flew their aircraft at magnum air speeds and dropped their paratroops over vital zones with great precision. The officers and enlisted men of the 315th Troop Carrier Group made an immeasurable contribution to the decisive and crippling blow struck at our enemies and they're fine teamwork and zealous endeavor were in the highest tradition of the military forces of the United States. (b) Air Medal: General order #41, H q I x troop carrier command was amended to include:- To NDLT John H. Hoffman, O-814865 (c) Good Conduct Metal: The Good Conduct medal was awarded to 233 enlisted men of this Group. ///

SUMMARY OF EVENTS 315th Troop Carrier Group 1 August 1944 To 31 August 1944 This has been a routine month for the group. We had a dry run on the only operational mission scheduled. The group did handle some freight and evacuation missions. Training continued along the usual lines with formation flying comma glider toying comma glider snatching and paradrop training sessions. All training was hampered by weather with ground school filling in on the many rainy days. ///

WAR DIARY 315th Troop Carrier Group 1 August 1944 To 31 August 1944

1 Aug 1944: 2 August 1944: 3 August 1944: 4 August 1944: 5 August 1944: 6 August 1944: 11 August 1944: 13 August 1944: 14 August 1944: 15 August 1944: 16 August 1944: 17 August 1944: 18 August 1944: 21 August 1944: 23 August 1944: 24 August 1944: 25 August 1944: 26 August 1944: 27 August 1944: 29 August 1944: 30 August 1944: 31 August 1944:

Among several promotions in the group, the following were announced in headquarters: TO BE SERGEANT (TERMPORARY) T/4 Raymond Smith 35 019 234 (239) TO BE CORPORAL (TEMPORARY) Pfc Leonard A Goldstein 12 142 180 (023) Nine aircraft were dispatched at 1852 hours on a routine freight haul 2 A22C on the Continent on Wing Mission 376. One aircraft was dispatched to same place on Wing Mission 378. The one aircraft on mission 378 returned at 2150 hours having hauled 5040 lbs of letters to France and returning with 15 litter patients. Mission 376 is still out, having been delayed by weather. Nine aircraft were dispatched to Membury and the Continent at 1608 on Wing Mission 366 and ten aircraft also to Membury and the Continent at the same time on Wing Mission 381. All the aircraft on missions 366, 376, and 381 were in by 2128 hours after hauling 141956 lbs of medical, signal and automotive equipment to France and evacuating 340 litter patients and 137 walking patients. Taking off at 1430 hours and returning at 1510 hours. Ten aircraft took part in the paracdrop exercise “Alice” dropping 143 British paratroops and 11 racks. Results were very good in spite of the fact that the DZ selected was behind a 400 foot hill so the pilots were unable to see it until right on it. Four aircraft made a freight hall of 20173 lbs to the Continent and evacuated 70 litter patients on Wink Mission 385. Some dirty weather was encountered on return trip but all four planes were in at 2241 hours. Ten aircraft participated in exercise “Splice” dropping 165 paratroops,24 bundles and 5 trollies. The exercise was generally successful but one aircraft had to make a second run over the DZ when the pilot manipulated the light switches and incorrectly. All combat crew members took part in a big review at Leicester of the 82nd airborne division and by General Eisenhower. We learned we were now part of the first Allied Airborne Army and were "promised" some work which everyone will welcome after the monotony of the past two months. Seventy two of our aircraft made up serials 3 and 4 of paratroop loading and unloading exercise “Kiwi”. Results were very good, these serials being unloaded and ready for take-off 3 minutes after last aircraft had stopped. 1173 paratroops and 3057 lbs of equipment were carried. Seventy two aircraft participated in night formation flying and unexpectedly ran into some bad weather. In dispersing, one aircraft crashed and two officers and two enlisted men were killed.. Today passes for more than six hours or discontinued to try and lower the V.D. rate on the station, causing considerable comment about the innocent suffering for the guilty. Most of our glider pilots work transferred out again today and speculation is rife about what our future may be. The transfer in and out of glider pilots seems to be getting quite routine. Seventy two aircraft participated in exercise “Kiwi 2” loading 924 paratroops and 125259 lbs of equipment, transporting them to Saltby, and unloading against a time schedule. The mission was successful. Promotions in headquarters announcee today were: TO BE STAFF SERGEANT (TEMPORARY) Sgt Clifford L Kelty 19 082 551 (754) TO BE CORPORAL (TEMPORARY) Pvt Samuel W Potts 38 124 053 (755) Two hundred and thirty three enlisted men of the Group received the Good Conduct Medal, including 34 men of Headquarters. S-2 and S-3 are busy setting up the briefing room for operation “Transfigure”. All personnel are restricted. Briefing on “Transfigure” was held this afternoon but the mission was postponed for 24 hours. All briefed personnel are segregated and the Station Officers Club set aside for their exclusive use. “Transfigure” is scrubbed and the restriction lifted, and six hour passes again authored. Group and Station started an intensive anti V.D. campaign today with lectures and movies to which all personnel are required to attend. Not much difficulty in getting attendance if it will get the 24 hour pass back. This Group received War Department citation for outstanding performance of duty in action against the enemy – (see Outline History) Exercise “Bumble Bee” - paratroop drop scheduled for today was canceled because of weather. “Bumble Bee” was run today, 72 aircraft dropping 888 paratroops and 32537 lbs of equipment. Results were good generally but some difficulty was experienced on pararacks due to faulty loading/ Weekly news summaries for headquarters were started today, the enlisted men in the intelligence section doing the summarizing and doing a good job of their first one. Two freight missions were dispatched to the Continent comma dash 60 aircraft on Wing Mission 512 and 26 aircraft on Wing Mission 518. 28 Aug A few aircraft returned from missions 512 and 518, but the both of them were stull out. General Orders No. 46, Hq. IX Troop Carrier Command, dated 8 July 1944, awarding Air Medals to several men of this group were amended to include 2ns Lt John H. Hoffman, O-814065. Wing Mission 512 was completed, the 60 aircraft having hauled 293730 lbs of food and medical supplies to the Continent and returning with 135 litter patients, 1 walking patient, two passengers, and 3000 lbs of freight. One aircraft was slightly damaged on the Continent but was repaired there and returned safely. Wing Mission 518 was completed except for one aircraft damaged and still at A50-C. The 25 which have returned took over a load of 120985 lbs of food and medical supplies and evacuated 104 litter patience and 27 walking patients. Lt. Colonel Lyon, together with his S-2 and S-3, attended a briefing at Wing on the forthcoming operation "Lynette". ///

OUTLINE HISTORY 315th Troop Carrier Group 1 September to 30 September 1944 One organization pursuing to letter, 1 September 1944, headquarters, United States strategic air forces and Europe, subject call an assignment of units parent.No 68 this group was relieved of assignment to the ninth Air Force and assigned to I.X troop carrier command, as of 26 august 1944. Pursuant to G.C. No. 60 969, Headquarters. IX Troop Carrier Command dated 4 September 1944, this group was assigned to the 52nd Troop Carrier Wing. 2. strengths Assigned attached Total 1640 12 Officers colon 330. 5 Warrant officers ol1, 0 Flight office: 145. Enlisted men 1164. 7 3. Movements. None. 4. Losses in action. 19 men missing in action. 5. Awards and decorations. Battle participation award letter 1/4 September 1944, headquarters. European theater of operations, United States army, amended paragraph one a of letter of 19 July 1944, to include this group among the units entitled to battle credit for participation in the campaign quote, Western Europe.. Distinguished flying cross was awarded to captain Samuel W subtle, O - 662196, of the 310 troop Carrier squatter, this group for heroism and extraordinary achievement, while participating in aerial flights during the. from 13 July 1944225 August. Is 1944. As leader of a troop Carrier formation in the mass air movement of units of the I. X troop Carrier command from the United Kingdom to the. Mediterranean theater of operations and return, and as a troop Carrier. Serial leader in the airborne invasion of Southern France, this officer demonstrated the highest. Qualities of leadership, and domitable spirit, and technical skill. the superior performance rendered by him during these strategic moves and tactical operations combined with his demonstration of fortitude comma enthusiasm and indefatigable energy reflects the highest credit upon himself and upon the armed forces of the United States. Bronze Star Medal. In recognition of meritorious service and connection with military operations against the enemy, bronze star medals were awarded to M/Sgt Joseph G Gusky, 6852172, and M/Sgt Wilbur E. LaLonde, 663745. ///

SUMMARY OF EVENTS 315th Troop Carrier Group 1 September 1944 to 30 September 1944 This has been a busy and a trying months with operational missions, dry runs on operational missions, and several transport and evacuation missions. the personnel are tired and nerves are tight, do not only to the heavy work and uncertain hours, but also to the fact that For most of the months the men have been restricted and recreational opportunities , few. the quote old timers return from their furloughs and leaves in the states and time to participate in part of operation quote , market. colonel mcleland comma group commander comma finished the month seriously ill comma in the Hospital. ///

WAR DIARY 315 Troop Carrier Group 1 September 1944 to 30 September 1944

1 Sep 1944

Nearly 1100 paratroops arrived on the base today for preparation in mission “Linette”, a paratroop drop in Holland. They are quartered in and about the hangars and not allowed contact with our Group or Base personnel. Much the same air of secrecy prevails as did prior to D Day. S-2 and S=3 are preparing the briefing room. the base is restricted. USTST letter of this date relieved this unit from assignment to IX Air Force and assigned us to IX Troop Carrier Command, effective as of 26 august 1944. Most of the men who have been with the Group since its earlier days were incensed today by the transfer of three of our “docs” because they were not flight surgeons. We were all very satisfied with the job of nursing us which they have done for the past two years and more, and hope that the transfer will mean a break for them, but doubt it. The aircraft damaged at A-50C on Wing Mission #518 has still not returned.

2 Sep 1944

Work continues on operation “Linette” with briefing scheduled for 0145 on 3 September. Combat crews have the day off to rest. Late in the evening, the operation was postponed 24 hours. The one aircraft still outstanding on Wing Mission #518 got back as far as Membury where it was grounded by weather

3 Sep 1844

Briefing for “Linette” again scheduled for 1000 hours but the mission was cancelled and the Group put on a 36 hour alert. The restriction was lifted for 6 hours passes for tonight only. Wing Mission #518 finally complete, the last aircraft getting in at 0045, having hauled 4,995 pounds of food to Orleans where it was damaged.

4 Sep 1944

Section III, G.0. 69, Hq. IX Troop Carrier Command, dated for September 1944, assigned this group to the 52nd Troop Carrier Wing as of 26 august 1944. Six and 12 hour passes were authorized today and the restriction lifted.

5 Sep 1944

Our liberty didn't last long - the post was restricted again at noon today, and as this is usually the tip-off to our personnel, as well as the whole surrounding countryside, there was a sizable audience, while the front line was being changed on the situation map, - everyone hazarding his own guess on where we were to go.

6 Sep 1944

The Group had a practice run on a review to be held on the occasion of the official presentation to us of our citation.

7 Sep 1944

General Brereton and Air Marshall Tedder were expected on the field today but after we got all scrubbed up for them, we learned they come. British troops from a ground division arrived today and are practicing loading and unloading their heavy equipment on our aircraft. Our glider pilots also returning today, so it does not appear that operations are very imminent, but this indication was not true this time. As Lt. Col. Lyon with his S-2, S-3, and the Group Communications Officer went to Wing this afternoon and were briefed on operation “Comet” and the lights were burning late again in the briefing room.

8 Sep 1944

British troops arrived for operation “Comet” scheduled today but now post-poned 24 hours

8 Sep 1944

“Comet” was post-poned again, but the weather was good for a change. And the group got in some intensive flying, including some much needed formation flying. The post is still restricted and the men are generally sweating out the mission and with no opportunity to blow off steam. Lt. Ccl. Lyon attended a meeting at Wing this afternoon.

10 Sep 1944

This morning the mission was again post poned and at 2030 hours was definitely cancelled and the restriction lifted - too late to do anything about a liberty run.

11 Sep 1944

Today we are back in the freight hauling business with 94 aircraft being dispatched to the Continent: 30 on Wing Mission #552, 30 on Wing Mission #552A, and 34 on Wing Mission #552B. Wing Missions 552 and 552A were completed by 2130 hours, the 60 aircraft having hauled 295,923 pounds of gasoline over and returning with only 630 empty gasoline containers.

12 Sep 1944

75 aircraft were dispatched at 0650 on Wing Mission #555, another trucking mission and we're back at 1815 hours after hauling 381,716 pounds of ammunition to Brussels. Wing Mission #552B was also completed today, their load having been 167,543 pounds of gasoline.

13 Sep 1944

25 aircraft dispatched on Wing Mission 560 and 62 on Wing Mission 562.

14 Sep 1944

The group received authorization for its third star on the e t o ribbon. the two missions dispatched yesterday are not yet completed.

15 Sep 1944

A recognition of meritorious service in connection with military operations against the enemy, Bronze Star Medals were awarded to M/Sgt Joseph G. Gusky, 6852172, and M/Sgt Wilbur E. LaLande, 663745. The following promotions were announced in headquarters : TO BE STAFF SERGEANT (TEMPORARY) Sgt Fred L Thomas 35 412 480 (673) TO BE SERGEANT (TEMPORARY) Pfc Jay W. Powell 34 312 058 (345) TO BE PRIVATE FIRST CLASS (TEMPORARY) Pvt Walter G Mack 12 044 437 (405) Pvt Marshall R Starer 32 854 051 (755). Wing Mission #562 is still incomplete but 560 was completed today with the 25 aircraft having hauled 148,496 pounds of ammunition for the British to Brussels.

16 Sep 1944

Our glider pilots are leaving again today. The Group Commander, S-2, S-3, and the Group Communications Officer attended a briefing at Wing on operation “Market”. Upon their return, tt was necessary to seal the base as one of the paratroop officers had been careless and briefed his men within sight and hearing of many base personnel. Work on the briefing room started immediately after lunch. Wing Mission #562 was completed, 248,637 pounds of gasoline and 63,307 pounds of ammunition being transported to the Continent and 48 walking patients evacuated to England

17 Sep 1944

Briefing for our first two serials, involving 90 aircraft, for operation “Market” was held at 0715 hours. The first serial (A-11) took off at 1039 hours and 44 of the 45 Aircraft successfully completed their mission dropping elements of the 82nd Airborne Division. One aircraft was shot down before reaching the DZ with eleven brown and two white parachutes seen to open from this aircraft. One other aircraft suffered major damage and five had minor damage. Serial A-13 took off at 1101 and were over the DZ at 1315 to 1317 hours. Eleven aircraft dropped their troops on a special DZ designated by the Airborne C.O., and the rest all dropping successfully on DZ "O" as briefed. Two aircraft had minor damage and no personnel casualties were suffered. Immediately upon the return of the two serials, the engineering crews started changing from American to British pararack equipment, a job we have done so often that it is now known as “bucket drill”.

18 Sep 1844

Serial A-33 with 462 British paratroops and 47 racks took off at 1125 and 25 of the 27 aircraft dispatched dropped their sticks on the DZ at 1410 to 1416 hours. Two aircraft crashed before reaching DZ, one, the victim of Flak, one down from unknown causes, believed Flak. All of the crew of one of these aircraft are believed to have bailed out as did the paratroops, but on the other, it is not believed that any of the crew escaped. Crews complained that no fighter cover was observed in the vicinity of DZ. Serial A-34 with 27 aircraft, 440 paratroops and about 30,300 pounds of equipment took off at 1145 and were over dropping zone at 1418. Results were good but not up to our usual standard, nine aircraft having dropped their sticks 3/4 mile to 2 miles beyond DZ. All our aircraft and crews returned, 11 aircraft suffering minor damage from light Flak and small arms. Two aircraft were dispatched on a freight haul to the Continent

21 Sep 1944

Today's operations were not too satisfactory. Serial A-84, 27 aircraft with 361 Polish paratroops and 141 packs took off at 1310 hours, ran into foul weather, and it was necessary for 25 of them to return to base and at the end of the day there is no word from the other two aircraft so we must report two aircraft and nine crew members messing. Serial A-85, 27 aircraft with 359 parachutes, 120 pararacks took off at 1708. Two were forced back by weather and at the end of the day only two crews had returned from completing the mission, although 11 other crews were known to be safe. We didn't have sufficient information to render a mission report, again no fighter cover was reported. Wing Mission #566 completed, 10,200 pounds of equipment being taken to Brussels and 36 litter patients evacuated - it's been a rough day

22 Sep 1944

The mission report turned in on serial A-85 this morning shows 6 of our aircraft and 5 crews destroyed or missing. Results were excellent. The two aircraft missing from serial A-84 showed up having stayed at Brussels. Four members of this Group reported wounded on A-85 with 24 missing.

23 Sep 1944

We dispatched a new serial to A-84 to drop the Polish paratroops from the aborted aircraft of A-84 and A-85, and some of the 314th Group did not drop at 1358. The drop was behind our own lines and results were good, with no damage or casualties

25 Sep 1944

Lt. Col. Gibbons, S-3, went to a meeting at Wing tonight and upon his return called the operations and intelligence sections from the movie and work started for an air landing operation with a British ground division - briefing scheduled for early tomorrow morning

26 Sep 1944

72 aircraft operating as two serials of 36 aircraft successfully accomplished the Air Landing of 334 British troops and 187,067 pounds of combat equipment at the landing strip at Grave, Holland. Some Flak was observed but all our crews and aircraft are safe. The restriction of the post was lifted

27 Sep 1944

We are back In the trucking business today, 16 aircraft being dispatched to Brussels with 77,200 pounds of ammunition for the British 2nd Army. All but one was back by 2210 hours and the one was RON at Brussels. Colonel McClellan was very ill during the night and was taken to the 303rd Station Hospital this morning.

29 Sep 1944

71 aircraft were dispatched on Wing Mission #379. One aircraft aborted when it was damaged at Greenham Common, but 349,893 pounds of mixed freight were hauled to the Continent and 50 litter patients, 306 walking patients, and 389 passengers returned.

29 Sep 1944

30 aircraft, on Wing Mission #385, transported 150,147 pounds gasoline from Lyneham to Brussels. The mission was delayed by weather but otherwise an uneventful.

30 Sep 1944

35 aircraft, on Wing Mission 388, hauled 183,112 pounds gasoline to the Continent and returned with 5 passengers. ///

ENCLOSURES TO UNIT HISTORY 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP 1 September To 30 September

OUTLINE ISTORY 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP 1 October 1944 To 31 October 1944 1 – ORGANZIATION: Negative 2 – STRENGTH: Assigned Attached Total . . . . . . 1653 7 Officers 299 2 Warrnt Officers 1 0 Flight Officers 126 0 Enlisted Men 1167 7 3 – MOVEMENTS: None 4 – LOSSES IN ACTION: Status has chaged from 19 missing in actin to 2 killed in action and 16 missing in action. 5 – AWARDS AND DEOCRATION:2ND Bronze Oak leaf Cluster to the Air Medal was awarded to T/Sgt Harry T Black, 17018704, of the 309th Trop carrier Squadron. Bronze Star Medals were awarded to 28 members of the Group including the following 4 men of Group Headquarters: MAJOR WILLET M MESSNGER, O-471299 2ND lT ROBER E BARANES, O-886383 T/SGT JOHN S STASKIEWWICZ, 33150336 S/Sgt William E Ludwig, 16065511 The medals were awarded for: “Meritorious service in connection with military operations in which their organizations were engaged during the period 6 June 1944 to 30 September 1944 in the European Theater of Operations. The eminent successes achieved in combat by their respective units were in large measure attributable to the energy, zeal and devotion to duty displayed by these individuals and the high standards of excellence attained by them n the performance of their assigned tasks. Their outstanding contributions, which have brought distinction to their organizations, reflect the highest credit upon them and upon the United States Army Air Forces.”

SUMMARY OF EVENTS 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP 1 October 1944 To 31 October 1944 This has been another routine month with, however, as such activity in the trucking business as the weather would permit. Our record continues good with a minimum of abortives and mechanical trouble. Col McLelland is still in the hospital but the Group is functioning normally and efficiently under the command of Lt Col H B Lyon. There has been a noticeable let down this month after out very busy last half of September and as we approach two years overseas, impatience with routine activities grows, but the month ended with morale at a high level, largely due to the rotations system for air crews which has been announced.

WAR DIARY 315TH TROOP CARRIER GROUP 1 October 1944 TO 31 October 1944

1 Oct 1944

Two freight missions were completed today, on W.M. #388. 35 of our aircraft took 183,112 lbs of gasoline to a field close to Metz for the Third Army and returned with 5 passengers. On W.M. #391, 40 aircraft took 199,808 lbs of gasoline to Brussells. The weather was bad and the field near Mets muddy, bumpy and slippery but there were no mishaps. Two promotions were announced in HQ; both Pfc Walter G Mack, 12044437, and Pfc Marshall R Starer, 32854051, were promoted to temporary grade of Corporal.

2 Oct 1944

General Order #41, Hq. IX Troop Carrier Command, dated 8 July 1944 was amended to include a second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal for T/Sgt Harry T Black, 17018704, of the 309th Troop Carrier Squadron, this Group

3 Oct 1944

Eighty aircraft completed Wing Mission #395 and #397. 397,108 lbs of gasoline, ammunition and smoke grenades were hauled to Brussells and one passenger brought back. One aircraft took about an inch off each propeller blade in a takeoff accident at Kemble, but the pilot managed to fly it to the Continent and back.

4 Oct 1944

Three more trucking missions were completed today,- Wing Missions 399, 402, and 403 -, 66 aircraft having been used. Part of the Service Group from Spanhoe - 138 men and 36,934 lbs of equipment were moved to Brussells and 256,905 lbs of ammunition also hauled to Brussells for the British. 55 litter patients and 34 walking patients were brought back to the U.K. Weather was again very bad and some aircraft were forced to RON at Lille. Also, traffic was so heavy at the field where the aircraft were briefed to land that they were deverted to B58.

5 Oct 1944

Four aircraft on Wing Mission #413 took 19,048 lbs of gasoline from Kemble to Brussells, returning empty. Two other missions dispatched but not completed today

6 Oct 1944

Wing Mission 409 and 412 dispatched yesterday were completed today. 71 aircraft took 187,832 lbs of ammunition and 161,146 lbs of gasoline to Brussells, returning empty. One aircraft was demolished, and the co-pilot slightly injured when it overshot on landing at B56.

7 Oct 1944

65 of our aircraft completed 2 more trucking missions to Brussells taking over 329,348 lbs of ammunition and returning to the U.K. with 68 litter patients, 5 walking patients, and 21 passengers. The missions were without incident.

9 Oct 1944

The Defense Platoon was disbanded today which should help on our housekeeping details as we have been short of manpower for basic jobs.

10 Oct 1944

The weather was very poor again today so all pilots and navigators spent the morning in the briefing room getting a review of regulations governing flights to the Continent, corridors, navigational aids, etc. All departments listed the difficulties they had experienced in their trucking business for the past few months and a good bitch session developed.

11 Oct 1944

The weather in the morning was still very bad. One glider was overturned by a high wind during the night. Thirty aircraft completed W.M. #430 which had been dispatched on 7 October. 155,964 lbs of ammunition were hauled to Brussels.

12 Oct 1944

Wing Mission #433, 435, and 460 were completed today. 78 aircraft took 257,224 lbs of ammunition, 55,634 lbs of gasoline and 80,470 lbs of clothing to the Continent, and brought back 176 litter patients, 54 walking patients, and 8 passengers. Our British cousins at Brussels seem to be straining our international relations, being reluctant to provide quarters for our crews forced to RON there, many of whom had to sleep on the floor with no blankets, although they reported rooms were available.

13 Oct 1944

For the first time in several weeks, we had an air raid alert tonight, but nothing was seen or heard of the raiders, if any. We also received a gale warning and everything on the field is strapped down tight. 68 aircraft were dispatched on W.M. #462 and 67 completed the mission. One aircraft aborted when it damaged a winged tip in a taxying accident at Kembel. 340,029 lbs of gasoline were hauled to Brussels.

14 Oct 1944

All personnel in the Group had the opportunity today to see the official movies of the air invasion of Holland. Some of our aircraft showed up quite plainly. Wing Missions 464 and 478 were completed today, 73 aircraft going to Brussels and Laon with 333,017 lbs of ammunition and 3,1202 lbs of quartermaster equipment, and returning with 2 jeeps, a trailer and 5 passenger. The run to Laon was delayed two hours by heavy traffic at that.

15 Oct 1944

Twenty eight members of this Group, including Major Willet M Messenger, O-471299, 2nd Lt Robert E Barnes, O-886383, T/Sgt John S Staskiewicz, 33150336, and S/Sgt William E Ludwig, 16065511, of Group Headquarters, were awarded the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service between 6 June 1944 and 30 September 1944.

16 Oct 1944

Thirty officers in this Group received promotions today,-, most of them were from 2nd Lt to 1st Lt for some of our old officers who came overseas with us as Staff Sgt pilots. It was a large evening around the Officer's Club. In Headquarters the only promotion was of 1st Lt Richard W. Bettis, O-3937082 to Captain, a promotion that was very popular as he is a fine office.

17 Oct 1944

The weather improved today and two freight hauls were completed.- Wing Missions 486 and 490. 63 aircraft hauled 310,459 lbs of ammunition and tank threads to Brussels and brought back 40 passengers.

18 Oct 1944

The freight business is still good. 54 aircraft completed W.M. 487 and 409. Two aircraft aborted when they collided in taxing at Cherbourg. On this trip no load was carried over but the aircraft picked up their load of 271,838 lbs of ammunition and land mines at Cherbourg and took them to Valenciennes.

19 Oct 1944

Wing Mission #514 was completed today, eighteen C-47’s taking 91,802 lbs of ammunition to Brussels and bring back two passengers. Six aircraft were deverted to pick up gliders at LZ “W” and take them to Valenciennes. Capt LT Campbell had the honor of recovering the first glider from Holland. Wing Mission 519 was successfully completed today also, but the crew all expressed their opinion that it was a Snafu mission. 4,897 lbs of ammunition and 2 passengers were taken to Paris. It took three hours to load the ten aircraft at Membery, and when they got to Paris there was no one to unload planes, and as they did not want the ammunition and had expected medical supplies they withheld permission for our crews to unload their own aircraft for 2 hours. To make things complete the aircraft had taken evacuation personnel over with them, but no patients were available and they all came back empty handed.

20 Oct 1944

Headquarters officers had a very special dinner tonight with Col Petty from the Wing and the Squadron C.O's and Executive officers as guests. In addition to lobster and thick steaks, everyone had all the champagne they could handle, - some more.

24 Oct 1944

A staff meeting was held this afternoon. Subjects included were a place to hold unit social activities which do not conform altogether to Red Cross policies, billeting of new replacement personnel, duties of the new Group Awards and Decorations Board, ideas for a war bond drive, Tactical Inspection ratings, rotation plan for air crew personnel and sewage and sanitation problems in the camp. Wing Mission 521, which was dispatched on the 19, was completed today, having taken 183350 lbs of ammunition and shell cases to Brussels and returning with 24 passengers and 2000 lbs Of mail period the mission was held up by weather which has been very good for "sacking" only.

26 Oct 1944

Headquarters Squadron enlisted men had a very nice Halloween dance, with the movie room very appropriately and ingeniously decorated. Several HQ officers dropped in for a while. The post orchestra furnished the music and the party was a big success.

27 Oct 1944

Col McClelland got a pass from the 303rd Station Hospital and came over to visit us. Everyone was more than glad to see him and see looking so well, although rumor has it that the board which met yesterday is sending him home. The one aircraft still out on Wing Mission #546 on which 20 C-47's were dispatched on 22 October return tonight. On this mission we hauled 100,955 lbs of Tank parts from Kemble to Paris and brought back 42 passengers.

29 Oct 1944

The weather broke today long enough for us to complete three trucking missions - Wing Missions 558, 566, and 572, on which we dispatched a total of 31 aircraft which took 145,151LB.S of equipment and 36 passengers to the Continent and.

29 Oct 1944

Wing Missions 531, 561, and 589 were completed today,- 71 aircraft taking 349,939 lbs of equipment over to the Continent and returning with 18 passenger.

30 Oct 1944

Thirty of the 40 aircraft dispatched on Wing Mission 593 and 594 completed their missions, hauling 204,119 lbs of ammunition to the Continent and returned empty. For a change, some of the crews ran into some excitement when 9 aircraft flying between cloud layers, got off course and flew close to Dunkirk, where a barrage of light flak met them. No ships were hit and they practiced that maneuver known as getting the hell out of there. ///

OUTLINE HISTORY 315 TROOP CURRY GROUP 1 November 1944 To 30 November 1944 1 - ORGANIZATION: Lt Col. Howard B. Lyon, O-385338, assumed command of this group as of 27 September 1944 comma vice Colonel Hamish McLellan comma old dash 27735. 2 – Strength: Assigned Attached Total: . . . . . 1715 27 Officers: 408 0 Warrant Officers: 1 0 Flight Officers: 144 0 Enlisted men: 1162 19 3 – MOVEMENTS: none 4 - LOSSES IN ACTION: none 5 – AWARDS AND DECORATIONS: A - Distinguished Flying Cross awarded to 7 members of this Group, including LT call Robert J. Gibbons, O-382673, and Lt Col. Howard B. Lyon, O - 385338, of Group headquarters, “for heroism and extraordinary achievement, while participating in aerial flights during the period 17 September to 30 September 1944. These officers served as serial leaders of Troop Carrier formations which participated in the vertical development of enemy positions in Holland, in the greatest airborne assault in military history. With heroic disdain for the hazards of intense enemy ground fire and the risk of attack from hostile aircraft intent on impeding the operation and at times flying through weather which taxed their skill and resourcefulness to the utmost, they led their formations of unarmed aircraft to their objectives with unerring precision. The successful delivery of airborne troops and critical combat equipment and supplies by Troop Carrier aircraft, in amounts heretofore unprecedented, may be attributed to their perilous leadership and unswerving devotion to duty and reflects the highest credit upon them and upon the Armed Forces of the United States”. B - First bronze Oakley Cluster to Distinguished Flying Cross awarded to Colonel Hamish McLelland, O-277350, of Group Headquarters “for heroism and extraordinary achievement, while participating in aerial flights during the period 17 September to 30 September 1944. This officer served as a serial leader of Troop Carrier formations which participated in the vertical envelopment of enemy positions in Holland in the greatest airborne assault in military history. With heroic disdain for the hazards and of intense enemy ground fire and the risk of attack from hostile aircraft intent on repeating the operation and at times flying through weather which taxed his skill and resourcefulness to the utmost, he led his formation of unarmed and unarmored aircraft to their objectives with unerring precision. The successful delivery of airborne troops and critical combat supplies by Troop Carrier aircraft, in amounts theretofore unprecedented, may be attributed to perilous leadership and unswerving devotion to duty and reflects the highest credit upon himself and upon the Armed Forces of the United States”. C - Air Medal was awarded to two members of this Group, neither from headquarters, - “for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight during the period 1 July 1944 to 30 September 1944, in the European Theater of operations. These individuals engaged in intensive aerial activity as combat crew members of Troop Carrier planes in the resupply of Allied armies advancing across France, Belgium and Holland and in the air evacuation of casualties. In addition, they participated brilliantly in the greatest airborne operation in military history, the vertical envelopment of the German armies impeding the progress of our ground forces in Holland by precisely delivering massive airborne assault forces and vast amounts of critical combat equipment and supplies to designated objectives. These operations were conducted over an extended period of time in the face of intense hostile ground fire and weather which require the utmost professional skill and unswerving devotion to duty for a successful accomplishment. Their achievements are worthy of special recognition in the annals of the United States Army Air Forces. D - First Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal was awarded to three members of this Group and Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal awarded to two members of this Group “for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flights during the period 1 July 1944 to 30 September 1944 in the European Theater of operations. These individuals engaged in intensive aerial activity as combat crew members of Troop Carrier planes in the resupply of Allied armies advancing across France, Belgium and Holland and in the air evacuation of casualties. In addition, they participated brilliantly in the greatest airborne operation in military history, the vertical envelopment of the German armies impeding the progress of our ground forces in Holland, by precisely delivering massive airborne assault forces and vast amounts of critical combat equipment and supplies to designated objectives. These operations were conducted over an extended period of time in the face of intense hostile ground fire and in weather which required the utmost professional skill and unswerving devotion to duty for successful accomplishment. Their achievements are worthy of special recognition in the annals of the United States Army Air Forces. E - Air Medal was awarded to 270 members of this Group including Capt Bernard T. Wheeler, O-410348, and Capt Richard W. Bettis, O-393708, “for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flights during the period of 1 July 1944 to 30 September 1944 in the European Theater of operations. These individuals engaged in intensive aerial activity as combat crew members of Troop Carrier planes in the resupply of Allied armies advancing across France, Belgium and Holland and in the air evacuation of casualties. In addition, they participated brilliantly in the greatest airborne operation in military history, the vertical envelopment of the German armies impeding the progress of our ground forces in Holland, by precisely delivering massive airborne assault forces and vast amounts of critical combat equipment and supplies to designated objectives. These operations were conducted over an extended period of time in the face of intense hostile ground fire and in weather which required the utmost professional skill and unswerving devotion to duty for successful accomplishment. Their achievements are worthy of special recognition in the annals of the United States Army Air Forces”. F - Air Medal was awarded to 52 members of this Group for “meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flights during the period 17 September 1944 to 30 September 1944. As Troop Carrier glider pilots, these officers demonstrated exceptional airmanship and resolution and the execution of missions vital to the vertical envelopment of enemy positions in Holland. Piloting their gliders over extended routes in difficult weather, and braving hails of flack and small-arms fire, they formed part of the vast glider armada which successfully landed thousands of airborne troops and huge quantities of combat equipment and supplies at designated objectives behind enemy lines. They're outstanding achievements and the greatest airborne operation and military history reflect the highest credit upon the military forces of the United States”. G - First Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal was awarded to 170 members of this Group, including Capt Lawrence T. Campbell, O-789768; Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal was awarded to 18 members of this Group, including Capt William L. Brinson, O-789667; and Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal was awarded to two members of this Group “for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flights during the period 1 July 1944 to 30 September 1944 in the European Theater of operations. These individuals engaged in intensive aerial activity as combat crew members of Troop Carrier planes and the resupply of Allied armies advancing across France, Belgium and Holland and in the air evacuation of casualties. In addition, they participated brilliantly in the greatest airborne operation in military history, the vertical envelopment of the German armies impeding the progress of our ground forces in Holland, by precisely delivering massive airborne assault forces and vast amounts of critical combat equipment and supplies to designated objectives. These operations were conducted over an extended period of time in the face of intense hostile ground fire and in weather which required the utmost professional skill and unswerving devotion to duty for successful accomplishment. Their achievements are worthy of special recognition in the annals of the United States Army Air Forces”. H - First Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal was awarded to 4 members of this Group “for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flights during the period 17 September 1944 to 23 September 1944. As Troop Carrier glider Pilots, these officers demonstrated exceptional airmanship and resolution in the execution of missions vital to the vertical envelopment of enemy positions in Holland. Piloting their gliders over extended routes in difficult weather, and braving hails of flak and small-arms fire, they formed part of the vast glider armada which successfully landed thousands of airborne troops and huge quantities of combat equipment and supplies at designated objectives behind enemy lines. Their outstanding achievements in the greatest airborne operation in military history reflect the highest credit upon the military forces of the United States”. I - Purple Heart was awarded to F/O. Tuttle R. Freeman, T-126160 M, for wounds received in action on 17 September 1944. J – Good Conduct Medal was awarded to 146 members of this Group. ///

SUMMARY OF EVENTS 315th TROOP CARRIER GROUP 1 November 1944 to 30 November 1944 This month started out with a gala air climaxed by our 2nd Overseas Anniversary party on this 4th and 5th. Following that, we were as busy as the weather would permit. In addition, with the usual freight hauls and one practice mission, we have had to inaugurate a training program for nearly 100 replacement pilots with no training on 2 engine aircraft. Several of our older men left for home, necessitating many changes and duties for the remaining personnel. Two B24 crews were attached to us to check off our crews on four engine aircraft and everyone is eager now for the arrival of the Liberators. WAR DIARY 315th TROOP CARRIER GROUP 1 November 1944 To 30 November 1944

1 Oct 1944

The weather was bad today, so we had no operations. An officer's meeting was held in the morning to discuss and lay down a few rules for the big second anniversary party coming up this weekend. Colonel McLelland was visiting the Group today, preparatory to departing for the States. S/Sgt Henry Billinghurst left today for the States, the second from Hq to be so lucky.

2 Nov 44

Four freight hauls were completed today, 14 of our aircraft returning empty after taking 70,729 lbs of ammunition and 528 lbs of gasoline to Demain/Prouvy airfield on the Continent. Colonel McLellan left tonight on the first leg of his trip home. Several officers gathered in his quarters for his last evening, and saw him off with deep and sincere regret.

3 Nov 44

Wing Mission #605 and #609 were completed. 40 aircraft took 197,767 lbs of Ordnance Equipment to Paris and evacuated 48 Litter Patients. 4 aircraft carried 172,000 lbs of mail and baggage, together with 26 passengers (prisoners with guards) to Brussells returned with 2 passengers. Our two years overseas anniversary party started today with all departments working skeleton staffs. In the basketball rapid-fire tournament, which started the festivities, the 43rd came out on top, incidentally, enriching this historian by Ł7. A cocktail party was held at the Officer's Club at four oclock and a dance in the evening for the officers, with a floor show imported from London for the occasion. All the liquid refreshments carefully hoarded for the occasion were disposed of but the party was remarkably orderly and free from unpleasant incidents. Just about everything happened though, including one girl having a miscarriage at the dance.

5 Nov 44

Today the enlisted men had their celebration while the officers struggled to get back to normal. Again, all departments worked skeleton staffs and wherever possible, these skeletons were all officers. In the afternoon they had a tea dance which was originally scheduled for the hangar, but moved to the movie room when the weather got bad. Partners partook of GI chow for dinner and in the evening a show was given at the Red Cross Club, which included the floor show from the officers Saturday night dance. There was some shuffling of duties today Occasioned by Colonel McLellan's departure and transfer of Lt Col. Dekin. Major James S. Smith, O-642188, was appointed C.O. of the 34th Squadron, Lt Col. Robert J Gibbons, O-382873, was appointed Executive Officer of the Group; and Major William K. Mandt III, O-396577, became S-3.

6 Nov 44

The celebration is all over and things aren't back to normal or nearly so. Everyone is expressing the hope that we wont have to celebrate a third anniversary overseas. 80 aircraft were dispatched today, but weather prevented completion of the missions this noon. To officers, with unpronounceable names, from the Polish Parachute Brigade, which dropped on 21 September, had lunch with us and invited the first pilots and navigators of the serials witch dropped them to their camp for dinner on the 8th. They seemed pleased with their drop, saying it was better than they had had in practice missions.

7 Nov 44

Election day, but no election excitement on the post. General opinion is that the U.S.A. won't go to hell, whoever wins, and the war will continue as usual. Several men from the Group left today for home, among them Capt. L.t. Campbell, assistant S-3.

8 Nov 44

5 missions were completed today, loads being taken to Antwerp, Brussels. Valencinnes and Reims. 129 aircraft were used on their missions and 330,466 lbs of ammunition, 8,8387 lbs of Ordnance Equipment, and 224,670 lbs of Oil and gasoline were taken over. 57 Litter patients, 2 passengers and 300 lbs of mail were brought back to England. In the evening we had a very nice party and dinner with a very fine bunch of gentlemen -The officers of the Polish paratroops with whom we have worked. Despite some language difficulties, the party ran very smoothly and we hope we can repay their courtesy.

9 Nov 44

40 aircraft took 68,593 lbs of Signal Equipment and 132,747 lbs of ammunition to Brussels and Reims respectfully and returned with 5 passengers and 350 lbs of mail. The missions were not so successful as it appears as all of the load should have gone to Reims.

10 Nov 44

We started to receive some new crews today, 5 officers and 4 EM reporting from the 52nd Wing, after ferrying some C47's over from the States. 64 of our aircraft completed missions today, returning empty after hauling 206,672 lbs of ammunition and 110,610 of Diesel fuel to Reims.

11 Nov 44

Missions scheduled to go out this morning were canceled due to weather so we took the opportunity to show training films. There was no observance of Armistice day for World War I. 10 aircraft, which left on the 9th returned today after hauling 5,210 gallons of gasoline to Valenciennes and evacuating 54 Walking Patients and 48 Litter Patients to Membury. One aircraft had engine trouble and force landed at Debling without mishap or injury to the crew.

12 Nov 44

22 of 24 aircraft dispatched on 10 November, completed Wing Mission #706 today. Their load to Valenciennes totaled 58,871 lbs of Signal Equipment and 5,264 gallons of gasoline. Two passengers were brought back. two aircraft aborted due to tire trouble at the loading field, Ramsbury.

13 Nov 44

There was a further shuffle of primary duties today. W.O. Clark K. Michaels, W-2133846, was transferred to Group from the 43rd Squadron and made Assistant Engineering Officer. 2nd Lt Benedict L. Hogan, O-448387, was transferred to Group from the 309the Squadron and made Technical Inspector. Capt. William William L. Brinson, O-789667, was appointed liaison officer and 2nd Lt Robert E. Barnes, O-886383, took over the Group Engineering job.

15 Nov 44

Sgt John R. Smolenski, 32393185, was promoted to temporary grade of Staff Sergeant. The Group P/W officers left for a meeting in London.

16 Nov 44

84 new pilots joined the group today, all fresh from home and all single engine pilots, so now, in addition to being in the trucking business we shall be conducting a transition school.

18 Nov 44

A party of ground officers and men left for Shepherd’s Grove to provide facilities for the air echelon, who will operate from there on exercise “Eve”, a parachute drop. 30 aircraft completed freight missions today returning empty after taking 18,770 gallons of gasoline to the Continent.

20 Nov 44

Wing Mission #743 on which 40 aircraft were dispatched on 15 November, was finally completed today. 188,410 lbs of Ordnance Equipment, 100 gallons of gasoline and 11320 pounds of Signal Equipment were delivered to the Brussels area. No return loads were available. The air echelon is now at Shepards Grove for the paratroop exercise, but the weather was bad, so it was not pulled today. The glider pilots were “entertained” with training films.

21 Nov 44

81 aircraft took part in exercise “Eve”, forming the first 2 serials - 45 and 36 aircraft respectively. Two spares were provided but it was not necessary to use them. Results were very good although the formation was stacked a little too much and several aircraft had to make second passes at the DZ because the British paratroops were too slow in getting out. 1276 paratroops and 80 parapacks were dropped and 4 observers were carried. 27 paratroops did not jump, mostly because of equipment failures, or getting hung up in the doors.

23 Nov 44

Thanksgiving Day with the cooks doing their stuff in a big way. Everyone was highly satisfied with their dinner and in the rainy afternoon only skeleton crews operated.

24 No v44

Staff meeting today in which we learned, among other things, that we were due to move to East Anglia very soon, - just when we hoped we were settled for this winter.

25 Nov 44

Some mild excitement this morning when a JU-88 circled the field a few times. We could not distinguish the markings, but it was, we believe, part of the R.A.F. flying circus. No alert was sounded. 47 of our aircraft completed freight missions today. Their loads over were 25,502 lbs of signal and quarter master equipment and 214,671 lbs of oil. The missions were uneventful, but there was considerable complaint about the slow loading Aldermaston, where they had available only 3 trucks to load over 40 aircraft.

26 Nov 44

Headquarters squadron had a meeting this morning, in which about everything was covered - Inspection, articles of war, sex morality, and even a few smallpox vaccinations. A B24 crew arrived today to start checking office off our crews on the B24's which we expect soon. 83 of our aircraft completed training missions, their loads over being 23,800 lbs of food, 6,340 pounds of mail 14,563 pounds of signal equipment, 48,272 pounds of steel matting, 124,753 pounds of equipment and baggage for the 82 Airborne Division, and 100 passengers. They returned with 38 Litter Patients, 205 Walking Patients, 4 passengers and 300 lbs of aircraft parts.

27 Nov 44

Another 11 new pilots reported today to the group to be added to our transition school.

29 November

Six freight missions were completed today after being delayed by weather. 189,390 lbs of Lubricating Oil, 95,990 lbs of steel matting, 74,988 lbs of Diesel Fuel, 39,580 lbs of Chemical Warfare Equipment, 3,600 lbs of phosphorescent paint, and 2,905 lbs of pipe fittings were hauled to the Continent by 91 aircraft, which returned empty. Another B24 crew reported in today to assist on training our crews on 4 engine aircraft.

30 Nov 1944

70 aircraft took off at 0805 hours and delivered 336,967 lbs of steel matting to Merville (B53) and returned empty at 1710 hours. They always manage to get back on pay day.

Dec

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315th TROOP CARRIER GROUP UNIT HISTORY 1 March 1945 to 31 March 1945 TABLE OF CONTENTS PART I ORGANIZATION AND CURRENT STATUS PAGE ...................... 1 PART II NARRATIVE ................................................. 2 PARK III DIARY THREE DASH .......................................... 6 PART IV COMBAT OPERATIONS SEVEN DASH .............................. 8 PART V NON-COMBAT OPERATIONS ..................................... 9 PART VI TRAINING ................................................. 10 PART VII STATISTICS ............................................... 11 PART VIII STAFF ACTIVITY AND PARK IX PRESS RELEASES AND PHOTOGRAPHS ........................... 13 PART X APPENDIX ................................................... 315th TROOP CARRIER GROUP Unit History PART I 1 March 1945 to 31 March 1945 ORGANIZATION: Headquarters squadron is presently organized under T.O. and E 1-312, changes 1 and 2 with the four assigned Squadron organized under T.O. and E 1-317 dated 12 may 1944. On 27 March 1945, Lt Colonel Robert J Gibbons assumed Command of this Group. (G.O. #4, included independents) STRENGTH: Headquarters Squadron Group Total Authorized Actual Authorized Actual Officers 30 35 514 622 Enlisted Men 95 126 1323 1268 (from morning report for 31 March 1945). STATION: No change, Group stationed at Station 493 (Spanhoe). LOSSES IN ACTION: 1-4-30, of which all but 1 MIA is covered by Squadron histories. From Headquarters Squadron, Colonel Howard B Lyon is missing in action since 24 March 1945. Colonel Lyon was Serial Leader of Serial B5 of mission “Varsity”. Troops were seen to drop from his aircraft over designated D.Z. but no authentic report of his subsequent actions or whereabouts were received as of 31 march 1945. AWARDS AND DECORATIONS: By General Order #3 this Headquarters (included in Appendix) the Good Conduct Medal was awarded to the following members of Headquarters Squadron: Cpl ladilaysem J Balass Jr 13 152 490 Pfc Charles R Marple 35 615 929 Cpl George F Lemble JR 36 571 150 Pfc Robert F McMaster 32 674 908 Cpl roman j Madure 36 718 194 Pfc Griffith O Perry 36 520 926 Pfc Douglas R Groul 37 484 926 Pfc John T Pearsall 32 796 914 315th TROOP CARRIER GROUP Unit History PART II NARRATIVE 1 March 1945 to 31 March 1945 March was a month in which the weather was such that we had aircraft flying on every day of the month. The Group participated in Combat, Practice and Freight missions. We experienced our percentage of losses to date on mission "VARSITY", both in men and machines, with Colonel H.B. Lyon, Group Commander, among those listed as missing in action. Lt Col Robert J. Gibbons assumed command of the Group, with Lt Col Smiley C. Stark being appointed deputy group commander. In the last two or three days of the month, we made our first freight hauls into Germany. The Group is "sweating out" a move to the Continent and is being kept mobile but as the month ended, no definite date or no definite information was received. 315th TROOP CARRIER GROUP Unit History PART III DIARY 1 March 1945 to 31 March 1945

1 March:

Wing Missions 439, 449, 504, 506, and 509 were completed, 33 passengers and 16,6519 lbs of freight were hauled to Continent and 24 Litter Patients evacuated from the Continent to the U.K., and in addition 54 Walking Patients were transferred from one field to another on the Continent. Pvt Hubert McMaster, one of our ex-infantry replacements, was promoted to Pfc.

2 March:

Missions 539 and 540 were completed. 154 lbs. of freight and 6,100 gallons of gasoline were hauled to the Continent, but 2,550 gallons were returned as it was over capacity at B54 and at A74 where they detoured him, they had no unloading facilities.

3 March:

Wing Missions 541, 549, 550 and 552 were completed, 41870 lbs of freight and 40 CG4A Gliders were hauled to the Continent and returned empty. Three aircraft instructed to unload at A80, found the field still under construction and delivered their loads to A79.

4 March:

Wing Mission 51, 564, 565, 566 and 569 were completed. Nine passengers and 74,746 lbs of freight were hauled to Continent and 81 Walking Patients, and 48 Litter Patients brought back. Five aircraft dispatched to A50 were sent from there to A39 to Unload.

5 March:

Missions 567, 568, 570, 571 and 572 completed. 63 aircraft towed 40 gliders and hauled 147,840 lbs of freight to the Continent and returned empty. One aircraft encountering bad weather on return route, became separated from formation and crashed 5 miles Southwest of Cheddington, Buckinghampshire, killing all 4 crew members.

6 March:

Missions 594, 597 and 600 were completed by 14 aircraft,, 61,500 lbs of freight and 17 passengers being hauled to the Far-shore.

7 March:

Missions 591, 596 and 599 were completed by 27 aircraft who took 9 passengers and 10,200 lbs of freight and towed 24 gliders to the Continent, returning empty.

8 March:

35 aircraft completed missions 592, 593, 607, 608, 614, 616, 620 and 625. 19 passengers, 18 CG4A gliders, and 72,718 lbs of freight brought back. 12 aircraft were dispatched to Nether Avon on DS to drop troops of the 6th British Airborne Division.

9 March:

The trucking business continues good with 10 more missions being completed today numbers 611, 612, 613, 617, 618, 619, 622, 627, 628 and 632. 52 aircraft took 11 passengers, 19 gliders, and 20,542 lbs of freight to Continent and brought back 48 Litter Patients, 52 Walking Patients and 12 passengers back.

10 March:

A staff meeting was held in the morning at which chief problems discussed were an impending move to the Continent and a forthcoming operational mission. Capt Julius H Peterson, O-662170, and 1st Lt Gilmore H Halverson, O-887116, were transferred into Headquarters and designated as Air Inspector and Asst. Air Inspector respectively. Lt Col Robert J Gibbons, O-382,673, was relieved as Air Inspector which had been an additional duty for him and was designated, typically, Group Commander. 2 freight missions were completed by 3 aircraft, numbers 631 and 646. 14,910 lbs of freight were hauled to the Continent.

11 March:

1st Sanford Friedman, O-563047, was designated Group Classification Officer as an additional duty. Aircraft completed missions 615, 637, 642, 644, 645, 649, 641. 652, 653, 658 and 659. 51 of our aircraft took 1 Jeep, 20 gliders, 26 passengers and 220,285 lbs freight to the far shore and returned with 2 passengers.

12 March

Missions 655, 660, 661, 662, 666, 666, 670 and 672 were completed by 33 of our aircraft. 2 Jeeps, 19 gliders, 50 passengers and 133,040 lbs of freight were hauled to the Continent. There was no return load.

13 March:

Missions 675, 676, 776, 796, 816, 836, 846, 866, 687 and 688 were completed by 26 of our aircraft. 12 passengers, 10,164 lbs of freight, and 9 gliders were delivered to the Continent and 1 passenger brought back.

14 March:

10 of our aircraft completed missions 693 and 698 by hauling 49,230 lbs of freight to the Continent. An advanced detachment headed by Major William L Brinson went to Boreham, the field on which we will stage on a forthcoming mission.

15 March:

Cpl Roscoe J Johnson, 38188263, was promoted to temporary grade of Sergean.t. In preparation for a possible move, most departments were cleaning out files. Col Lyon and Lt Col Mandt, Maj Messenger and Capt Headly attended a meeting at Chipping Onger relative to a prospective combat mission. 35 of our aircraft completed the following trucking missions: 671, 694, 695, 696, 692, 700, 701. and 705. These planes returned empty after delivering 20 passengers and 141,733 lbs of freight to the Continent.

16 March:

The advanced party at Boreham was augmented by 1st Lt Joseph B Harris of headquarters.

17 March:

All combat crew personnel at the Station received a P.W. lecture incorporating the latest instructions received. The Group participated in exercise “Token’ furnishing 2 serials of 3 aircraft each, - serials B5 and B6. This exercise was successful although some difficulty was experienced with the time schedule which was based on ground speed and some aircraft had difficulty with reception of some navigation aids. Freight Missions 669, 691, 699, 709, 715 were also completed today. 61 aircraft took 38 gliders, 44 passengers, and 217,318 lbs of freight to the Continent and brought back 4 passengers and 100 lbs of freight.

18. 24 of our aircraft completed freight missions 71671719 and 720 period 12 gliders comma one passenger and 56237 lbs of freight were taken to the Continent.

19 March:

Only one freight haul completed today, #718. One C47 took 1 passenger and 4,089 lbs of maps to Y-9. Good Conduct Medals were awarded to several members of the Group headquarters. Personnel receiving them are listed in Part I of this history installment. The 2053rd Engineer Fire Fighting Platoon, Avn. and 1185th Military Police Company Avn. less detachment “A” were attached to this Group for General Order #7, Headquarters 52nd Troop Carrier Wing.

20 March:

A party of 3 officers and 4 enlisted men was sent to A48 to investigate the facilities there for this Group staging on that field for a future operation. Six C47's completed Mission 723 hauling 29,690 lbs of ordnance equipment to A42.

21 March

All combat crew personnel who missed the lecture on 17 March were given P.W. instructions today. Four C47’s completed Mission 730 taking 19,791 lbs of freight and 2 passengers to A93. The air crews and planning and housekeeping personnel necessary to forthcoming operational mission left for Boreham by truck and airplane. This included our Group orchestra, "The Dakotans". All personnel restricted.

22 March:

Briefing room is being set up and rumors are flying. Major Messenger attended a meeting at Mark's Hall (Hq 38the Group) relative to security on forthcoming mission.

24 March:

Three officers and 15 EM -a flying control team - reported to this Group and were assigned to Hq. For further events on this date, see Combat Operations in this history installment.

25 March:

Among several men who left the group today for infantry training was Pvt Austin Hunter, 15320425 of Hq.

27 March:

Lt Col Smiley C Stark, O-421645, was relieved from assignment to the 309th Troop Carrier Squatter and assigned to Hq. He was appointed Deputy Group Commander.

29 March:

Four C47’s took 17,500 lbs to A42 and returned with a Jeep and trailer and 6 passengers completing Mission 754. Today also, we received a sizable freight mission - squelching current rumors of another impending combat operation .

30 March:

One C47 returned empty after taking 2 passengers and 4,863 lbs of equipment to A41 on mission 776.

31 March:

Forty-five aircraft completed Mission 774, our first freight haul to Germany. 25,720 gallons of gasoline were taken to Y6A for the 3rd Army. 42 aircraft were also back on Mission 785 which is not yet complete. These aircraft carried 23,980 gallons of gasoline to Frankfurt on Main.

315th TROOP CARRIER GROUP Part IV COMBAT OPERATIONS 1 March 1945 to 31 March 1945 This group furnished two serial's, numbers B5 and 6 of Operation “Varsity” and completed its mission on 24 March 1945. On 21 March 1945, the necessary air crews, planning and housekeeping personnel moved from Spanhoe to Boreham, accompanying them were detachments of Military Police and Engineers from the Fire Fighting Platoon stationed at Spanhoe. Headquarters men participating in preparatory and staging activities were: COL H B LYIN, AC T/Sgt John Davidson LT COL WILLIAM F MANDT, AC T/Sgt John S stackiewicz MAJOR WILLIMA L BRINSON S/Sgt Joseph E Cardoze MAJOR WILLETT M MESSENGER, AC S/Sgt William B Ludwig CAPT COLON P COAKER, ChC S/Sgt Kenneth L Trotter CAPT WILLIAM J GERRAND, AC Sgt Virgil C Cooper CAPT DUNCAN S HATTON, AC Sgt Joseph H Henderson CAPT JAMES M HEADLEY, AC Sgt James E Rogers CAPT PHILLIP WE HODGON, AC Cpl Walter J Gilligan 1ST LT ROBERT E BARNES, AC Cpl Roman J Madura 1ST LT JOSEPH E HARRIS Pfc Andrew Pron 1ST LT ROBERT L SAUERHAMMER, QM S/Sgt Robert E Johnson Housekeeping, Security, Planning and setting up the briefing room presented no unusual features or difficulties and briefing took place on 23 March 1945. Briefing of Crew Chiefs was done at 1500 hours and was conducted by Lt Col Mandt, 1st Lt Barnes and Major Messenger. They were not given time of take-off or location of DZ. Briefing of Radio Operators was conducted at 1800 hours by Lt Col Mandt, Capt Headley, Lt Harris and Major Messenger. As in the case of the crew chiefs, they were not given time of take-off or location of the DZ. Briefing of pilots and navigators was conducted by serials in the evening, Serial B5 at 1900 hours and Serial B6 at 2100 hours. Briefing was conducted by Col Lyon, Lt Col Mandt, Major Messenger, Capt Headley, Capt Hodgon. and Lt Harris. On the morning of 24 March, breakfast was eaten at 0500 hours with our Group Orchestra, the Dakotans, furnishing music for the occasion. Immediately after breakfast, all crew members except Navigators were transported directly to their aircraft, while the Navigators stopped by operations to set their watches, get an altimeter setting and to pick up the maps which they had on the previous afternoon prepared for their flights. Employment was slightly delayed while the parachute troops had tea but take-off was on schedule with the following members of Headquarters participating in the actual mission: Colonel Lyon as leader of serial B5, Major Brinson as leader of a flight of nine aircraft, and Major Messenger as an observer. Take-off, forming, trip out and the run in were uneventful for both serials. Serial B5 was over DZ at 1010 and serial B6 at 1013 hours. The drop itself was excellent in the opinion of the crews participating with both the parapacks and troops being well concentrated in the jettison and DZ areas. Light, intense, Accurate Flak and considerable small arms fire was encountered in the DZ area. First reports, compiled at 1750 hours on 24 March showed a total of 1 killed, 6 wounded and 54 missing with 13 aircraft missing of which five were believed to have landed or crash landed in friendly territory. By 31 March, all but 6 aircraft had been accounted for and casualty figures revised to 1 killed, 6 wounded (2 of whom did not require 24 hours hospitalization) and 3 missing, including our Group Commander, Col Lyon. Battle damage finally added up to 19 aircraft missing in action or washed out with 36 other aircraft having various degrees of damage but repairable. Inasmuch as Headquarters personnel all flew with the 43rd Troop Carrier Squadron, details of the Operation which are included in their history are omitted here. ///

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