MR300 Sec. 13 Warfare- Southwest Pacific Area - January - February 1944

MB 300 Sec. WARFARE - SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA January, February, 1944 DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. E and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 MR 300 Sec. 13 WARFARE -- SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA REGRADED UNCLASSIFIED January-February, 1944 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA. Date 4/13/94 SECRET \ WAR DEPARTMENT for CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR 0-2241 COMGENSOPAC No Number Ft. Shafter No Number New Delhi No Number Chungking No Number 28 February 1944 To Chief of Staff War Department, Commanding General Havaiian Department, Commanding General USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMISCA, AMMDEL, C-2241. Signed MacArthur. Report of operations SOWESPAC area period 13002/26 to 13002/27. Nov Guines: Wevak: Approximately 30/35 planes reported but Dagua and Boram by attacking B24's February 26. Admiralty Islands: Momote: 15 barges seen along shore, strip reported unserviceable February 26. Northwestern area: Dyuee Nev Guinea: Hollandia: Vessels considered destroyer and large freighter transport with 18 barges and harbour craft reported February 25. DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (8) CM-IN-19891 (29 Feb 44) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date News 300 Sowespac COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2 To: WAR C-2241 (Others page 1) 28 February 1944 Timor: Koepang: 5 possible sea trucks sighted Semace Strait February 27. End of part 1. Part 2. Northeastern area. Land. Arave: Active patrolling airdrome and east Mielelok, destroyed machine gun post. Saidor: Patrol reached Uepler Point (15 miles West). - Found additional 20 enemy dead, report contact; Australian patrols found 40 enemy dead Timbe River area. Naval: PT's sank large barge vest Saidor. Air. (1) Delayed report: 12 A20's, 7 P47's bombed and strafed Alexishafen airdrome, destroyed one bomber, damaged another aircraft, hit buildings February 25. Operations February 26, (2) Further 27 B25's to Womb Momote area turned baok by weather; 17 B24's to attack same target, 6 turned back, 11 bombed airdrome and dump areas. E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Ben. 2(B) and 5(D) or (E) CM-IN-19891 (29 Feb 44) OSD letter. May MAY 1972 21 1973 Date By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3 To: WAR C-2241 (Others page 1) 28 February 1944 (3) Two reconnaissance B24's harassed Lorengau Momote area. (4) Patrolling Catalinas bombed barracks buildings Muschu Island. (5) 12 A20's strafed villages Sepik River. (6) 4 RAAF P40's bombed and strafed Burui and Marui villages and landing ground (Southwest Wewak on Sepik River) destroyed buildings, started fires. (7) 8 P39's strafed and damaged 3 barges Madang area. Operations February 27: (8) Patrolling B24 harassed Los Negros Island. (9) 20 B24's bombed Tadji airdrome, started fires, caused large explosion, destroyed 9 aircraft, damaged 9 others on ground; some bombs also dropped Modilon Plantation (Madang) (10) 5 B25's bombed Nubia strip and dispersal areas. (11) 23 RAAF Vengeances, 14 RAAF P40's bombed and strafed Madang and Alexishafen airdromes, destroyed 2 air- craft on ground, left schooner and barge burning. Northwestern area. (12) 7 B24's bombed radio station and Waingapoe town area (Soemba). Solomons. Air. Operations February 26. (13) 12 P39's raided villages Southwest Bougainville, 12 Avengers supported ground forces, hit enemy positions Saua River, Dauntless bombed coastal guns Mavaraka. CM-IN-19891 (29 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Bee. 1(1) and 5(D) or (B) O3D latter. May MAY 1972 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon OHQ SWPA Page 4 To: WAR 0-2241 (Others page 1) 28 February 1944 (14) 52 Dauntless, 22 Avengers, 22 B25's, 24 B24's, 17 P38's hit Vunapope area through day, destroyed numerous buildings, 4 varehouses damaged, piers and repair shops hit, gun positions started fires. (15) Patrolling Ventura sank small cargo vessel off Duke of York Island, night Catalinas bombed Kessa plantation northwest Bukau, demolishing 2 warehouses, hit gun position Mutupina Point, bombed and strafed loaded barges south Jaba River, bombed Poporang. Part 3. Weather. Deep lov cloud over northeastern area ranges and inland areas in afternoon and over sea from late evening to after day break, caused thunderstorms and heavy showers; broken middle cloud over seas northwestern area with broken to overcast deep low cloud with frequent showers. Air. (1) 9 by 500 lb demolition 8 to 11 seconds delay bomba dropped from 50 feet, 3,000 rounds 50 calibre fired by A20's; 200 rounds 50 calibre fired by P47's; slight light and medium inaccurate anti-aircraft fire. (2) 129 by 500 lb instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 6,000 to 4,600 feet. (3) 4 by 500 1b general purpose instantaneous de- molition bombs dropped by one aircraft from 6,000 feet, 40 by 100 1b phosphorous, 50 by 30 1b fragmentation bombs, 50 bottles dropped from 14,000 feet, 500 rounds 50 calibre CM-IN-19891 (29 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E 0. 11652, Ber. MD and 6(D) or (8) OSD letter. May 1873 MAY 21 1913 By DBS Date SECRET COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: WAR 0-2241 (Others page 1) 28 February 1944 fired in strafing from 300 feet by other aircraft. (4) 6 by 1,000 lb bombs with Daisy outter fuze, 60 fragmentation bombs dropped; slight rifle fire encountered. (5) 100 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from minimum altitude. (6) 8 by 300 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped; 4,500 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; slight inaccurate anti-aircraft fire. (7) 18 rounds 37MM, 200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from 50 feet. (8) 40 by 100 1b instantaneous demolition bombs, 20 tail fuzes, 15 bottles dropped from 8,000 to 3,000 feet; 1,400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (9) 160 by 1,000 lb instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 11,500 to 7,000 feet. (10) 25 by 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 7,700 feet; intense medium and heavy inaccurate anti-aircraft fire. (11) 42 by 500 1b 1/10th second delay bombs dropped from 1,500 feet, 13,800 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by Vengeances; 14 by 500 1b 1/10th second delay bombs dropped, 9,400 rounds 50 calibre fired by P40's; slight light and medium inaccurate anti-aircraft fire. CM-IN-19891 (29 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11602 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1972 MAY 2 1913 By DBS Date, 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 6 To: WAR C-2241 (Others page 1) 28 February 1944 (12) 54 by 500 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped from 9,500 feet, 9 hung up and salvoed in sea; slight medium inaccurate anti-airoraft fire. No 31g ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAP Admiral King General Vandegrift CC/S (Capt. Royal, USN) White House Field Marshal Dill Log CM-IN-19891 (29 Feb 44) 0438z CV 59 SECRET COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET 1 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER fun INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR 0 2156 COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered Ft Shafter " Nov Delhi # Chungking . 26 February, 1944. To Chief of Staff War Department CG Hawaiian Depart- ment 00 USAFISPA pass to CONSOPAC ANMISCA AMNDEL from GHQ SWPA signed MacArthur 0 2156. Operations report SOWESPAC Area. 13002/24 to 1300Z/25 signed MacArthur. New Britain: Rabaul: Photographs February 25th show 25 fighters, 45 454 medium bombers, runways serviceable; in harbour 14 small merchant vessels, 2 submarines, 3 damaged patrol craft, 380 barges. Willaumsx Peninsula: 12 barges reported Tauvali Bay by attacking aircraft. Wewak: 9 camouflaged bombers, 5 fighters reported but dispersal area by attacking aircraft. Hansa Bay: 7 single engined aircraft serviceability undetermined sighted in Nubia airdrome February 25th. Northwestern Area: Timor: 9 observation posts reported attacked by OM-IN-18466 (26 Feb 44) E. 0. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sen 3(E) and 5(D) of (B) OBL luturn visy , 1972 Date MAY 21 1973 300 3 Sowespas By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 80 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA To: Page 2 WAR 0 2156 Other Addressees Unumbered 26 February, 1944. Rivers. Beaufighters on south coast between Benain and Beboeloe Ambon: 23,000 ton merchant ships reported in barbour, 10 fighters Laha, 18 floatplanes, 3 flying boats at Halong February 25th. End of part 1. Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land: POST Cape Gloucester: Patrols extending east report nil contact with enemy at Iboki plantation. Saidor: Elements 126 Infantry occupied Cape Iris and Warai (3 miles west), also occupied Sindaman (8 miles south Cape Iris) nil resistance. Air: (1) 11 additional RAAF Vengeances destroyed major 23rd. portion Singor Village west Saidor February Operations February 24th: (2) 18 B24's to bomb Momote, cloud obscured target: 10 returned base, 3 bombed Karkar Island buildings caused large explosion, 4 bombed Alexi- shafen destroyed grounded bomber, 1 bombed target. CM-IN-18466 (26 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. B(E) and 5(D) or (R) OSD letter. mill 19MAY 21 1973 By DBS GORY No. 60 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Roh OHQ SWPA Page 3 TOI WAR C 2156 Other addressees Unnumbered 26 February, 1944. (3) Patrolling B25's bortbed and 8 trafed Gas- mata bombed Lorengau, attacked and left medium freighter sinking 12 miles north Cape Matanalem. (4) 2 RAAP Beauforts bombed Mal Nal Mission Jacquinot Bay, RAAF A20 bombed Tui Island east Gasmata, 2 Beaufighters sank barges silenced guns Ubil1 area. (5) 4 RAAF Beauforts bombed buildings Cape Dampier. (6) 4 F39's strafed trails Annanberg area (on Ramu River west Madang). Operations February 25th: (7) 2 B25's bombed Lorengau runway. (8) RAAP P40's strafed dump area Tui Island, east Gasmati; 2 Beaufighters strafed 12 barges Tluwali Bay. (9) 28 B25's, 21 A20's escorted by P40's and P47's bombed and strafed Boram airdrome destroyed 9 airoraft strafed 5 others started numbrous fires, hit heavy gun positions and stores, bombing excellent. (10) 23 B24's to attack Wewak are turned back by weather, 17 bombed Hansa Bay gun positions scored bits, 6 bombed supply dumps Madang, report good DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-18466 (26 Feb 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(B) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter. May 1. 1972 Date MAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY No. 60 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page 4 To: WAR C 2156 Other Addressees Unnumbered 26 February, 1944. coverage. Northwestern Area. Operations: (11) 9 RAAF Beaufighters strafed villages and observation posts south coast Timor (south Atamboea) started fires. (12) 7 B24's on shipping search bombed and scored near misses on 3000 ton freighter transport north of Ceram. SOUPAC Forces. Naval Operations: 5 destroyers bombarded Kavieng dawn February 25th, silenced shore batteries started fires dump areas; spotting aircraft reports 1 ship sunk 2 others left burning, several small vessels hit. Air. Operations February 24th: (13) 22 Avengers, 60 Dauntless with escort 32 Corsaire, 11 Hellcats, 16 Warbawks exploded ammunition dump demolished buildings caused many fires with 45 tons bombs Vunapope supply areas; 14 P38's bombed same targets also Cape Gazelle; Cor- sairs strafed submarine approaching Rabaul. (14) 22 B25's 19 Corsars cover hit Tobera Keravat Vunakanau and Rabaul town CM-IN-18466 (26 Feb 44) E. o. 11652, See 3(B) and 5(D) of (R) OSD letter, May \ 1972 MAY 21193 Date By DBS COPY No. 60 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: WAR C 2156 Other Addressees Unnumbered 26 February, 1944. (15) 24 B24's, 19 Corsairs escort unable reach Vunakanau, Bombed Jalu River area north west Cape Saint George; Nil interception Rabaul strikes. (16) Patrolling aircraft exploded 5 hute Piano Mission, damaged barge south west Bougainville, bombed villages Katsinkoveri south east Bonis, set 2 barges afire Kabakadas west coast New Ireland. Part 3. Weather. Broken middle cloud throughout northeastern area deteriorating at night; similar conditions over north- vestern area except for deep low oloud with heavy showers over Ceram and Banda Seas and north eastern Arafura Sea. Air. (1) 22 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 1500 feet; 1200 rounds 30 calibre fired in straf- ing; slight light accurate anti aircraft fire.1 (2) 24 1000 1b general purpose instantabeous demo- lition bombs dropped from 6000 feet Karkar Island, 32 dropped from 5400 feet Alexishafen, 8 from 9000 feet Momote; 3000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing Alexishafen where slight light anti aircraft fire encountered. (3) No details received Gasmata, 2 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from Booo feet Lorengau, 2 dropped on freighter, 1000 rounds 50 calibre fired in straf- ing vessel from 100 feet. CM-IN-18466 (26 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFED 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 4 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 1 COPY No. 60 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN BECHEL SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page 6 To: WAR 0 2156 Other Addressees Unnumbered 26 February, 1944. (4) 4 250 1b general purpose instantaneous, 91 20 1b fragmentation bombs dropped from 4000 feet Malmal, slight light accurate anti airoraft fire; 4 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bomba dropped from 50 feet, 1300 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing Tui Island; 1 250 1b general purpose 5 seconds tail delay bomb dropped, no details rounds fired Ubili area, moderate light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (5) 8 250 1b general purpose instantaneous, 180 20 lb fragmentation bombs dropped from 5000 to 3500 feet; 100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (6) No details recieved. (7) 4 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay, 4 500 lb 8 to 11 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 50 feet. (8) 2600 rounds 50 calibre fired by P40'81 900 rounds 20MM, 3500 rounds 30 calibre fired by Beaufighters. (9) 137 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 6000 feet by B25's; 78 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 25,600 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by A20's, intense mainly socur- ate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. (10) 105 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 15500 feet Hausa Bay, 42 dropped from 7000 feet Medang: slight to intense heavy accurate and insccurate anti aircraft fire Hause Bay. Slight light inaccurate Madang. CM-IN-18466 (26 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May % 1978. MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 60 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Roh GHQ SWPA Page 7 To: WAR o 2156 Other Addressees Unnumbered 26 February, 1944. (11) 3800 rounds 20MM, 9000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by 8 aircraft from nought height, details 1 aircraft not yet to hand. (12) 24 500 1b bombs dropped from 8000 feet; slight medium insocurate anti aircraft fire from vessel. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAF Admiral King General Vandegrift SGS 00/s (Capt. Royal, USN) Sir John Dill White House Log OM-IN-18466 (26 Feb 44) 1932Z jt DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 60 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 2124 COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered Ft Shafter TH n New Delhi " Chungking # 25 February, 1944. To Chief of Staff War Dept CG Havaiian Dept CO USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL C 2124. Report of operations SOWESPAC Area. 13002/23rd to 13002/24th signed MacArthur. Admiralty Islands: reconnaissance aircraft report nil activity, both strips unserviceable. New Britain: Rabaul: Photographs February 23rd show runways repaired, 23 fighters, dive, 3 medium bombers, 5 floatplanes; in harbour 2 destroyers, 12 small vessels, 360 barges; SOUPAC aircraft attacking later report no interception. Nov Guinea: Wewak: Boran and Wevek runvays reported serviceable by attacking aircraft February 23rd, 2 fighters only on Wevak; 3 small freighters reported in harbour. Northwestern Area: Belikpapan: Catalinas reported 4 large tankers, 2 other vessels many barges night February 22nd. End Part 1. E. o. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. 3(B) and 6(D) of (E) CM-IN-17646 (25 Feb 44) OSD letter. May , 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 3 00 Somespac COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -2- To: WAR C 2124 Other Addressees Unnumbered 25 February, 1944. Part 2. Wortheastern Area. Land. Cape Gloucester: 5th Marines patrols active Cape Raoult, 1 Company reached point 42 miles southeast. Saidor: Elements US 128th Infantry occupied Sien (south Gabumi); Australian troops found 80 enemy dead on trails inland from Gali. Air. Operations: Delayed report: (1) 15 P47's strafed and silenced 2 gun - destroyed 2 trucks Ruri Bey strafed Bonis, 4 P39's destroyed 2 barges Matchin Bay, night Catalina bombed barges Mibo River. (9) 10 B25's bombed Keravat, 9 others hit Vunakanau started large fires, 16 P38's bombed Vunapope started fires, bad weather hampered oper- ations; credit P38's with extra fighter destroyed Rabaul February 9th. DECLASSITED CM-IN-17646 (25 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(R) and 5(D) or (if) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -3- To: WAR C 2124 Other Adressees Unnumbered 25 February, 1944. (10) Patrolling aircraft bombed villages northwest Bukatoka strafed Cape Henpln, bombed buildings and pier Katherine and Labur Bays and n New Ireland, strafed Cape Saint George, light Catalina destroyed 1, left 3 others besched of 6 barges off Mibo River; B24 scored hit on 1 of 5 vessels attacked at night 70 miles northeast Kavieng, another bombed Duke of York Island. Part 3. Weather. Increased fog and middle cloud, average visibility except northern New Ireland where heavy rain hampered operation; thick veather through Banda Sea, else- where mainly favourable. Air. (1) 4,000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing Hansa Bay by P47's; medium and heavy accurate anti aircraft fire; 3 by 500 lb, 1 by 300 1b demolition bombs dropped from 6,000 to 4,000 feet, 83 rounds 37MM, 1400 rounds 50, 3,300 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing Madang area by P39's from 100 feet and under. (2) 30 500 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped from 10,000 to 5,000 feet; 2,700 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (3) 119 1000 1b instantanoous demolition bombs dropped from 15,000 to 4,300 feet Wevak, 8 bombs dropped Manam Island; moderate to intense medium and heavy accurate and inaccurate anti aircraft fire. CM-IN-17646 (25 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 Date MAY 1973 By DBS COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -4- To: WAR 02124 Other Addressees Unnumbered 25 February, 1944. (4) 1100 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from 50 feet; moderate medium and light accurate anti aircraft fire. (5) 4 250 1b general purpose instantaneous bombs dropped from 1,000 feet; 400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from 50 feet. (6) 47 by 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay, 27 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from mini- mum altitude, 10,800 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing But; 54 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay, 4 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 21,300 rounds 50 calibre 50 calibre fired in strafing Dagua; slight to intense accurate and inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. (7) 42 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8,500 to 1,500 feet, 9,600 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by Vengeances; 5,800 rounds 30 calibre fired from minimum altitude by P40's; alight to intense accurate and inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. No Sig 5 Being Serviced. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 1(E) and 6(D) or (E) Field Marshal Dill Gen Vandegrift OSD letter, May , 1972 Date MAY 21 1973 Adm King By DBS White House Log CM-IN-17646 (25 Feb 44) 1601z ejm 45 9 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTMENT DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE 1 ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 2 FROM CINCSIPA PRIORITY 3 PRIORITY 4 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION COMALLIED AIR FORCES ROUTINE 5 COM 7TH FLT DATE 26 FES 1944 DEFERRED 6 7 8 TOR CODEROOM 3242 9 BRIDBITY. 10 DECODED BY GRUNEWALD INFORMATION COM 3RD FLT PRIORITY (2GROUPS OMITTED) 11 PARAPHRASED ROUTINE 12 BY DORSEY COMGEN ADVON 5 DEFERRED 13 COMPACFOR 14 ROUTED BY 15 BALESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL NE TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE 483 AS ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 17 FISHER 242.034* NCR 4346 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTGOING DESPATORES PLEASE LOVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE REFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 INTERCEPT 23 F-01 24 (COM 7TH FLT PASSES CINCSIPA 242 34* ACTION COM ALLIED AIR FORCES COM 7TH FLT INFO COM 3RD FLT F-02 25 20 (2GROUPS OMITTED) COMGEN ADVON 5.) F-05 27 F-07 28 20 "EFFECTIVE TOTAL, 28 FEB 1944, OPERATIONS INSTRUCTIONS F-1 30 31 #42/1, THIS MEADQUARTERS, DATED 27 JAN 1944 IS REVOKED AND F-2 32 F-20 33 THE FOLLOWING SUBSTITUTED THEREFOR: (XC-1430) F-3 34 35 NIGHT BOMBING OF SHIPPING NORTH EAST OF NEW GUINEA BY F-30 36 37 AIRFORCES OF THE SOUTHWEST PACIFIC THEATER IS LIMITED TO THE F-31 38 F-32 39 FOLLOWING AREA: NORTH COAST OF NEW IRELAND AT (02-58 S 40 F-33 41 151-30 E); EQUATOR AT (151-43 E); EQUATOR AT (142-00 E); F-34 42 43 NORTH COAST OF NEW GUINEA AT (142-00 E); NORTH COAST NEW F-4 44 FX01 45 GUINEA AT( 146-00 E); POINT AT (04-30 S 147-00 E); POINT 46 FX30 47 AT (04-33 S 149-00 E); NORTH COAST (F NEW BRITAIN AT FX37 48 49 (149-05 E); POINT AT (08-00 S 151-00 E), POINT AT (28-00 S FX40 50 10-00 51 153-00 E); POINT AT (06-00 S 153-00 E); POINT ON SOUTH 52 VCNO PAGE 1. SECRET *GROUP OMITTED. DECLASSIFIED Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) Sec. 3(E) and S(D) be 3 OPNAV-NCH-14 242034 300 Samespac OSD letter, May 1872 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 MESSAGE NAVY DEPART iT TER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE I FROM 2 PRIORITY 3 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION 4 ROUTINE 3 DATE DEFERRED 6 7 TOR CODEROOM - 9 PRIORITY DECODED BY to PARAPHRASED BY INFORMATION 11 ROUTINE 12 DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY 14 UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATED WILL BE TRANSMITTED with northetz PROCEDURE RMJ AS is IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 242_35* NCR 4346 17 is 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 CM OUTCOME DISPATCHES FILME una ARCTY a - 0.00 913 BEFORE REGIVNING THE ACTION 21 F-0 22 COAST NEW BRITAIN AT (151-59 E); CAPE LAMBERT AT (04-12 s 21 F-01 21 151-31 E); NORTH COAST NEW IRELAND AT (02-58 $ 151-30 E). F-02 21 20 RESTRICTED ZONE FOR PASSAGE OF FRIENDLY SUBMARINES F-05 27 P-07 és REMAINS IN EFFECT. y F-1 30 MACARTHUR" F-2 a: 32 F-20 33 F-3 34 35 F-30 as F-31 37 38 F-32 39 F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FX01 45 FX30 46 PASSED BY COM 7TH FLT AS 242323. 47 FX37 48 *GROUP OMITTED. 49 FX40 50 DECLASSIFIED IC-00 51 E. O. 11652, See. 3(E) and 52 or (E) SECRET OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Offer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) OPNAY-NCR-15 DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 VI. SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR 0 2093 COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered Ft Shafter If Nev Delhi " Chungking " 24 February, 1944. To Chief of Staff War Dept CG Havaiian Dept CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMMIEL C 2093. Operations report SOWESPAC area period 1300Z/22 to 13002/23 signed MacArthur. New Ireland: Kavieng: Photographs February 22 show 2 fighters 2 dive bombers 3 medium bombers, both runvays unserviceable; 5 ship convoy reported heading north east 56 miles east north east midnight February 23. New Britain: Open Bay: Defence works reported under construction near Toriue mission. Ubili: 2 destroyers reported 25 miles north night February 20. Nev Guinea: Hansa Bay: Approximately 20 serviceable barges eighted between Condor Point and Nubia strip February 20. Alexishafen: Attacking aircraft report both runways unserviceable 9/15 unserviceable aircraft. Rai Coast: Track from Cape Iris vestward reported to show signs of heavy use, CM-IN-16949 (24 Feb 44) E. 0. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 1(B) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May WRV MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 300 Somespac 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER for INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -2- To: WAR C 2093 Other addressees Unnumbered 24 February, 1944. Northwestern Area: Timor Sea: Catalina reported attempted interception by 2 floatplanes 130 miles west Cape Londonderry February 23. End Part 1. Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land. Arave: Troop of 112 cavalry landed Mielelek (north Arave), cleaning up small enemy group. Saidor: Native troops killed further 57 enemy inland from Gali; US Forces attacked vest from Mot River bridgehead, captured Teteri, killed 42 enemy found 50 others dead; patrols active south Gajumi; Company 239 Infantry identified in area. Naval Operations: PT's strafed Talases Area, Air. Operations: (1) Further 2 B25's hit convoy off Kavieng February 21. (2) 21 P40's bombed and strafed targets Hansa Bay February 19, destroyed barge and lugger, hit jetty, silenced gun battery. (3) 17 B24's bombed stores and personnel areas Alexishafen February 20, started fires, hit lugger, CM-IN-16949 (24 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIPED 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May , MAY 1978 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -3- To: WAR C 2093 Other addressees Unnumbered 23 February, 1944. 1 other B24 bombed road Mintjim area. (4) Same day 12 P40's bombed and strafed Alexishafen, destroyed unserviceable fighter on ground; 6 P39's strafed and bombed Kulau area (west Bogadjim) destroyed large number huts. (5) 9 Vengeances reided trails south east Gabumi (Saidor area) scored number hits in villages. Operations February 22. (6) Reconnaissance B24 and B25 bombed Karkar Island buildings, B25 bombed and strafed Momote run- way. (7) 2 P39's strafed villages Talasea area, fur- ther 9 Beauforts bombed Pora Pora area, started number small fires. (8) 18 B24's, 42 B25's to strike Momote turned back by weather, bombed Iboki, started fires, bombing excellent. (9) 2 P39's strafed boats Bagabag Island. (10) Further 18 B24's bombed along Modilon road (Madeng). Operations February 23: (11) 4 RAAF Spitfires strafed islands off DECLASSIFIED 'CM-IN-16949 (24 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 4, 1973 MAY 211973 By DBS Date COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA. Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -4- To: WAR C 2093 Other addressees Unnumbered 23 February, 1944, Gasmata, 4 P39's strafed buildings Talasea area. (12) 30 A20's bombed and strafed landing field and adjacent buildings Burui (on Sepik River southwest Wewak) started numerous fires, destroyed buildings, (13) 22 RAAF Vengeances bombed and strafed villages south Saidor, destroyed huts, 12 P40's escorting also strafed. Solomons: Naval action: 5 destroyers February 22 sank enemy cargo vessel 60 miles north vest Mussau Island, sank old Way type destroyer 33 miles south vest New Hanover, sank large cargo vessel and majority of 9 barges off southern entrance Steffen Strait, shelled Duke of York Island and Kavieng starting fires; allied vessels suffered nil damage. Gun- boats bombarded Puriata River area. Air. Operations February 22: (14) 5 Dauntless bombed and strafed targets around Torokina area, destroyed bridge Puriata River, 4 P39's bombed and strafed gun positions and supply dumps Tonolei started large fires, 4 Venturas bombed buildings Names1 Bay New Ireland. CM-IN-16949 (24 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date MAY 211973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -5- To: WAR 0 2093 Other addressees Unnumbered 23 February, 1944, (15) 47 Dauntless, 23 Avengers attacked shipping Keravia Bay scored 18 hits on 8 ships, also 12 hits among 20 barges, hit buildings; 24 B25's dropped 35 tons bombs Lakunai started large fires, B24's dropped 83 tone Keravat caused 4 explosions 2 fires; returning fighters strafed radio station south Cape Gazelle and radar station Cape Saint George, nil interception, cloud hampered operations, 1 Avenger 1 Dauntless lost due anti aircraft fire, 1 crew safe. (16) Reconnaissance aircraft bombed freighter east Duke of York Island, heckled Rabaul, strafed bivouace Motupena Point. Part 3. Weather. Mainly favourable with broken middle cloud throughout area but deteriorating tovards evening and with frontal zone north of Bismarck Sea; Northwestern area mainly favourable with scattered showers but heavy weather over northeastern Arafura Sea and boundary along Banda Sea. Air. (1) 10 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 150 feet and under; moderate light accur- ate anti aircraft fire. (2) 42 300 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 11,000 feet; 3700 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; intense accurate and inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. CM-IN-16949 (24 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) of (E) OSD letter. May 4 MAY 1972 211973 By DBS Date, COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT NARA Date 11/13/2014 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -6- To: WAR C 2093 Other Addressees Unnumbered 23 February, 1944. (3) 112 100C lb instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 14,000 to 8,000 feet Alexishafen, 7 bombs dropped Mintjim; slight heavy insccurate anti aircraft fire Alexi- shafen. (4) 4 300 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 12,000 feet, 8100 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by P40's; 4 300 lb, 1 250 1b demolition bombs dropped from 500 to 30C feet in skip bombing attack, 6 rounds 37 MM 2800 rounds 50 calibre, 6200 rounds 30 calibre fired in straf- ing by P39's; slight light insccurate anti aircraft fire Kulua, (5) 18 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 1500 feet; 13,600 rounds 30 calibre fired from 100 feet; slight light insccurate anti aircraft fire. (6) 2 1000 1b instantaneous, 4 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 10,000 to 7,000 feet Kar- kar Island, 4 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 8,000 feet Momote, 1500 rounds 50 calibre fired in straf- ing Momote, (7) No details received P39's; 42 250 1b instantan- eous, 2 500 1b, 720 4 1b indendiary bombe dropped from 11,400 feet by Beauforts. (8) 134 100C 1b instantaneous demolition bomba dropped from 10,00C to 6,000 feet by B24's; 56 1000 lb, 15 50C 1b instantaneous, 35 500 lb 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 7,500 to 3,000 feet by B25'8 CM-IN-16949 (24 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIRED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 1972 B(D) of (8) OSD letter, May L MAY 211973 Date By DBS COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHC SWPA Page -7- To: WAR C 2093 Other addressees Unnumbered 23 February, 1944. (9) No details received. (10) 120 1,000 lb instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 10,200 and 8,600 feet. (11) 350 20 MM, 1500 rounds 30 calibre fired from 3,000 feet by Spitfires; no details received P39's; Moderate medium fairly accurate anti aircraft fire Gasmata. (12) 1 250 lb, 77 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay, 38 500 1b 8 to 11,seconds delay demolition bomba dropped from minimum altitude; 27,200 rounds 50, 400 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (13) 22 500 lb instantaneous demolition bombe dropped from 1500 feet, 7,600 rounds 30 calibre fired by 12 Vengeances; 3600 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by P40's escort; moderate to intense light anti aircraft fire. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF Gen. Vadegrift Field Marshall Dill E. o. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Bec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (6) White House OSD letter, May 1, 1972 Adm. King Log By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 CM-IN-16949 (24 Feb 44) 17232 lbv COPY No.45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NI 101 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR 02059 COMGENSOPAC No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # Ft Shafter No # 23 February 1944 To Chief of Staff War Department Commanding General Havaiian Department, Commanding General USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMISCA, AMMDEL 02059 Report of operations SOWESPAC Area. 1300Z/21 to 13002/22 signed MacArthur. Nev Britain: 6 possibly serviceable barges beached in Ruibeca Bay afternoon February 21. Nov Guinea: Sea truck and 5 barges reported of Nubia by night reconnaissance plane February 20. Saidor: Elements of 32nd Division holding bridgehead West Mot River report increasing enemy pressure. Northwestern Area: Photographs Koepang February 21st show Oesaoe runvay surfaced 3,100 feet cleared 8,000 feet, nil aircraft; on Penfoei 5 Fighters, 14 new dispersal points; at Tenau now anti aircraft defences, 3 small vessels 28 barges. Timor Sea: Reconnaissance aircraft sighted 190 miles West by North Darwin February 22. End of Part 1. Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land CM-IN-16449 (23 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) or (E) Home OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS 300 Somespac DateMAX Whites 0.14079 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -2- To: WAR 02059 (Other addressees listed on page 1) 23 February 1944 Gloucester: Patrols reached point 1 1/2 miles South East Cape Raoult; Itne River area reported clear. Saidor: Australian troops inland from Gali killed 57 found 16 other enemy dead; bridgehead West Mot River enlarged. Naval: PT's shelled Singor (West Saidor) night February 21st. Air. Operations February 19th: (1) Nine A20's attacked and sank destroyer and 1 gunboat West Kavieng. (2) Nine RAAF Vengeances bombed gun positions Nubia February 18th, next day same aircraft bombed Hansa Bay area, starting fires. Operations February 20: (3) Eight B25's 6 B24's attacked shipping Kavieng Area, (refers paragraph 3 operations report covering February 20); 5 other B24's bombed Talasea buildings, 1 bombed Makope. (4) Patrolling B24 bombed Los Negros Island. (5) 13 B24's bombed Hansa Bay, Awar strip and supply dumps at Alexishafen, caused fires in target areas. Operations February 21: (6) 6 B25's, 2 B24's attacked convoy West New Ireland sank 2 small merchant vessels 1 Corvette, DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) CM-IN-16449 (23 Feb 44) OSD letter. May, & 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -3- To: WAR 02059 (Other addressees listed on page 1) 23 February 1944 also hit and left burning another Corvette, damaged escorting destroyer, later B25 strafed sea truck Gazelle Channel. (7) Reconnaissance B24 bombed and sank sea truck off Nubia; 1 B24, 1 B25 bombed Lorengau Airdrome. (8) 37 B24's bombed Iboki Plantation Rein Bay, destroyed buildings, bombing excellent. (9) 8 B25's bombed Linga Linga Plantation Eleanora Bay, caused large explosion. (10) 5 RAAF A20's, 2 Beaufighters bombed and strafed Bivouae area East Cape Hoskins, damaged 4 barges. (11) 9 A20's bombed and strafed villages Pommern Bay, started fires. Operations February 22: (12) 9 RAAF Beauforts bombed Camp areas Pora Pora, other bombed Rano Plantation. (13) 24 RAAF Vengeances bombed barge hideouts Wagol River Madang, causes fires, bombing excellent; 12 es- corting P40's strafed nearby Siar Island. (14) 6 B24's bombed roads Madang Area. Northwestern Area. Air. Operations: (15) 8 RAAF Beauforts bombed and strafed petrol dumps, radio station and living quarters Timika Area. CM-IN-16449 (23 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May WAY MAY 1973 By DBS Date, 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -4- To: WAR 02059 (Other addressees listed on page 1) 23 February 1944 (16) 8 RAAF Beaufighters sank lugger strafed barges, bombed targets on Selaroe Island. SOUPAC Forces. Air. Operations February 21st: (17) 3 B24's bombed Kara Area, 2 Dauntless attacked Mibo River targets, 4 P39's strafed barges Matchin Bay, 4 Avengers destroyed Pier Matchin Bay with rockets, 2 P39's strafed villages North East Bougainville de- stroyed buildings. (18) 1 night B24 barassed Rabaul, next day 47 Dauntless, 24 Avengers hit Lakunai gun positions started fires, 15 B24's bombed Lakunai, 4 others bombed Rapopo; only 5 enemy Fighters airborne, 2 Corsairs on return started fire on 350 foot ship off New Ireland. Part 3. Weather. Broken to overcast middle oloud over Solomon Bis- marck Seas with weak frontal zone over Northwestern New Guinea Coast and usual general evening deterio- ration; Northwestern Area mainly farourable except for deep cloud with frequent showers North Eastern Arafura Sea. Air. (1) Reported as 50 500 1b, 1 200 and 50 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altutude, 2 500 1b bombs returned; 13,300 rounds 50 calibre expended in strafing) intense light and medium in- accurate anti aircraft fire. DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (B) CM-IN-16449 (23 Feb 44) OSD letter, May 4, MAY 1933 21 1973 By DBS Date 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -5- To: WAR 02059 (Other addressees listed on page 1) 23 February 1944 (2) 17 500 1b instantaneous demolition, 18 500 1b médium capacity bombs rod extension funed dropped from 2,000 feet; 8,900 rounds 30 calibre expended in strafing; slight to moderate anti aircraft fire of all calibres mostly inaccurate. (3) 16 1,000 1b bombs 4 to 5 seconds delay dropped on, 17,800 rounds 50 calibre 1700 rounds 30 calibre expended against shipping by B25; 32 1000 1b 1/10 second delay bombs dropped on shipping from 8,500 by B24's, moderate heavy some accurate anti aircraft fire from Kavieng; moderate light and medium accurate anti air- craft fire from shipping; 30 1000 1b 1/10 second delay bombs dropped Talasea, 6 at Makobe. (4) 2 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 6,000 feet. (5) 54 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 14,000 to 11,000 feet Alexishafen, 12 others dropped from 16,000 feet Hansa Bay. (6) 15 500 1b demolition bombs 4 to 5 seconds de- lay dropped by 4 B25's from 150 to 50 feet, 4,850 rounds 50 calibre, 1400 rounds 30 calibre expended by same aircraft; 12 1000 1b .025 seconds delay bombs dropped from 8,000 feet; 4,500 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by 2 B24's1 4 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped in skip bombing attack by B25, 1500 rounds 50 calibre expended; moderate light and medium accurate anti aircraft fire. (7) 2 1000 1b, 4 500 1b demolition bombs dropped from 1000 feet on vessel; 2 1000 1b instantaneous de- molition bombs dropped by B24, 3 500 1b bombs dropped by B25 from 9000 feet Lorengau; moderate light in- &ccurate anti aircraft fire from vessel Nubia. " n DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 1(E) and 5(D) or (E) CM-IN-16449 (23 Feb 44) OSD letur, May 1959 DBS DateMAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -6- To: WAR 02059 (Other addressees listed on Page 1) 23 February 1944 (8) 236 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 10,000 to 7,000 feet; 7 other bombs Salvoed. (9) 35 500 1b bombs 4 to 5 seconds delay dropped from 200 feet; 7,8000 rounds 30 calibre expended tn strafing. (10) 4 500 1b instantaneous general purpose bombs dropped from 1500 feet, 3500 rounds 50 calibre, 1000 rounds 30 calibre expended by A20's; 2 250 lbs bombs 5 seconds tail delay dropped from 200 feet, 1700 rounds 20 MM, 6000 rounds 30 calibre expended by Beaufighters. (11) 30 500 1b demolition bombs 8 to 11 seconds delay dropped from minimum altitude; 16,600 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (12) No details received Pora Poraj 2 500 1b medium capacity, 2 250 1b general purpose bombs all instantaneous dropped from 6000 feet Rano Plantation. (13) 55 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 1500 to 1000 feet; 1900 rounds 30 calibre fired by Vengeances, 300 rounds 50 calibre by P40's; slight light and medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (14) 36 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8,100 feet. (15) 32 250 1b general purpose 11 seconds tail delay, 7 20 1b fragmentation bombs dropped from 100 feet; 5,800 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; moder- ate light and medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire. E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) CM-IN-16449 (23 Feb 44) OSD letter. May Date, 1, MAY 1972 21 1973 By DBS 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECL ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Bobelon GHQ SWPA Page -7- To: WAR 02059 (Other addressees listed on Page 1) 23 February 1944 (16) 16 250 1b general purpose bombs 11 seconds tail delay dropped from 500 feet, 5208 rounds 20 MM, 6,800 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from o altitude; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAP ADM. KING OEN. VANDEGRIFT CC/S(CAPT. ROYAL, USN) SIR JOHN DILL WHITE HOUSE LOG CM-IN-16449 (23 Feb 44) 2329Z ong DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May WRITE MAY 2 1 1973 By DBS Data COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: COMGENSOPAC No # Ft Shafter No # New Dolhi No # Chungking No # War C-2012 22 February, 1944 To Chief of Staff War Department CG Hawaiian Department CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMDEL AMMISCA from GHQ SWPA signed MacArthur C 2012. Report of oper- ations SOUWESPAC Area period 13002/20 to 1300Z/21 signed MacArthur. Bougainville: Indications reported imminent enemy action around Torokina Perimeter. Nov Ireland: 2 destroyers 1 submarine chaser 2 medium freighters both on fire reported from reconn- aissance aircraft off New Hanover afternoon February 21, New Britain: Rabaul: Photographs February 21 show 21 fighters Lakunai and Tobera, Yunuays repaired Cape Hoskins: Photographs February 21st confirm strip unserviceable, work abandoned Pora Pora; 2 vessels 3 barges reported off shore night February 20th. Gasmata: 11 barges sighted evening February 20th. End of part 1. Home CM-IN-15546 (22 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED S(E) and (D) E E. O. 11652, Sec. OSD letter. May 1973 MAY 21 1973 Date 3 as Sowespac By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 50 ACCIFIED SECRET D WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA page 2 To: War C-2012 22 February, 1944 Part 2. North Eastern Area. Land: Arave: Patrols drome. active, artillery shelled enemy positions north Lupin Air- Saidor: Allied artillery dispersed 3 small enemy parties Cape Iris, ground force occupied Gabumi, enemy withdrew across Mot River towards Maibang. Naval: PT's destroyed 3 large barges west Saidor, sank 3 medium barges Rein Bay. Air Operations: 1. Delayed report: 7 A20's attacked Corvette Gazelle Channel February 19th scored direct hit, also strafed, P38's escorted. 2, Some day 2 patrolling RAAF P40's strafed and damaged 6 barges along coast south Hansa Bak. 3. 11 A20's bombed and destroyed buildings Cape Moem and Brandi Plantation (Wewak), started fires. Operations February 20th: 4. 2 P39's strafed and silenced gun positions Garove Island, 1 B24 bombed Karkar Island, 3 RAAF Beaufighters bombed and strafed villages Commodore CM-IN-15546 (22 Feb 44 ) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (II) OSD letter, May 1, 1978 MAY 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA page 3 To: War 0-2012 22 February, 1944 Bay. 5. 5 RAAF Beauforts bombed Cape Hoskins Headquarters Area, 2 bombed 2 small vessels and 3 barges same area, 2 bombed 2 small vessele and 3 barges same area, 1 Beaufort bombed Fulleborn Harbour, 6 other Beauforts dropped flares over tayget areas, 6. 7 B24's bombed gun positions Nubia stores area in Vitar Plantation (north Alexishafen). 7. 6 P39's strafed Madang Area left buildings afire, silenced machine guns, also strafed enemy troops crossing Mintjim River. Operations February 21st: 8, 6 A20's bombed strafed and destroyed huts and houses Karkar Island, 12 others bombed and villages, strafed Manum Island destroyed lugger and 2 barges, hit 9. 13 RAAF Vengeances 7 P40's bombed and strafed bivouac area south east Mindiri destroyed huts, demolished barge, 3 P40's covered. SOUPAC Forces. Land operations: 37th Division patrol returning from Kiape (15 miles northwest Torokina) killed estimated 120 enemy, patrols operating Laruma Area report nil contacts; Green Island Forces aided by tanks completing mopping up operations; fighter strip under vay, DECLASSIFIED CM-IN_15546 (22 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(B) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: page 4 War C-2012 22 February, 1944 Naval operations: PT's shelled ) Lemanmanu Mission and Nova Inlet (west Buka lassage); sank 2 barges off Motupena Point. Air. Enemy action: 4 enemy float planes vicinity Green Island driven off by 1 Corsair and 5 Vengers, 1 float plane destroyed. Operations February 20th: 10. P40's strafed barges Matchin Bay, Corsairs destroyed barge crossing Buka Passage, 13 P39's destroyed 20 barges Matchin Bay, 37 Dauntless 24 Avengers hit bridges Puriata and Hongoria Rivers, hit mission buildings 0onoitu; 1 Avenger lost. 11. 35 B25's covered by 56 fighters bombed Lakunai started large fires in revetment areas; nil aerial opposition, 1 B25 lost due anti aircraft gun fire, crew safe. 12, Reconnaissance aircraft attacked sub- marines off Cape Saint George, bombed Ballale, Mik Mik Island and Sarime (north west Bougainville), Part 3. Weather. Frontal zone from Aitape to west, else- where Doldrum conditions deteriorating during afternoon; north western area mainly favourable with scattered showers but frontal zone caused broken low cloud with frequent showers over Timor Sea southern Benda and north eastern Arafura Seas, DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-15546 (22 Feb 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA page 5 To: War C-2012 22 February, 1944 Air. 1. 19 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 3290 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing. 2, 2000 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing; intense inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. 3. 25 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 11,500 rounds 50 calibre expended in strafing; slight heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire from Boram. 4. 2 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped Karkar Island from 3000 feet; 2 250 lb general purpose bombs dropped 500 feet; 1500 rounds 20 MM, 700 rounds 30 calibre spent in strafing Hoskins Area. 5. 4 500 lb medium capacity, 4 250 1b semi armour piercing bombs dropped on shipping, 19 500 lb medium capacity, 10 250 lb semi armour piercing bombs on Gavuvu, 2 500 lb, 2 250 1b bombs Fulleborn Harbour; 42 4.5 inch reconnaissance flares dropped. 6. 17 1000 1b demolition bombs dropped; slight to moderate medium and heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire encountered. 7. No details. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN_15546 (22 Feb 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS DateMAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA page 6 To: Wer C-2012 22 February, 1944 8. 33 500 lb, 2 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 11,200 rounds 50 calibre expended in strafing. 9. 22 500 1b medium capacity 1 to 10 seconds delay bombs dropped from 2000 to 1000 feet, 52,000 rounds 30 calibre spent by Vengeances; 6 500 1b, 1 300 1b one tenth second delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude 4400 rounds 50 calibre spent by P40's. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CGAAF Gen Vandegrift Field Marshal Dill CC/S (Capt. Royal, USN) White House Adm King Log CM-IN-15546 (22 Feb 44) 1436z jb DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR No. C 1982 COMGENSOPAC No # Ft Shafter TH No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 21 February 1944 To Chief of Staff War Dept 00 Hawaiian Department, CO USAFISPA pass to CONSOPAC AMMISCA AMMORD, 01982. Opera- MacArthur. tions report SOWESPAC area. 13002/19 to 1300Z/20 signed New Ireland: 2 destroyers, 2 small freighters sighted on vesterly course in Kaut Bay afternoon February 19. Two destroyers sighted heading up coast off Katherine Har- bour February 20. New Britain: Rebaul: 3 submarines, 1 tanker, 1 medium 19. 13 small merchantmen photographed in harbour February Cape Hoskins: Small freighter sighted off end of strip evening February 19; varship reported on south wester- ly course off Lolobau Island afternoon February 20, New Guinea: Wewak: 1 medium, 2 small freighters sighted course 290 degrees early morning February 20. North Western Area: Halmahera: photographs show 4,500 foot strip cleared Sofifi (opposite Ternate) clearing Morotai Island. Ceram: 21,000 ton freighters 5 barges sighted off island February 19th. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-14911 (21 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date, MAY 21 1973 300 Sowespac COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA. Date 4/13/94 INCONING WES SECHEL CIVERILIED HAW SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2 To : War No. C 1982 COMGENSOPAC No. # Ft Shafter No. # New Delhi No. # Chungking No. # 21st February 1944 End of part 1. Part 2: Northeastern Area, Land, Arave: quantity enemy equipment and supplies captured Itne River Area. Cape Gloucsster: patrols reached Cape Raoult captured 7 prisoners. Saidor: minor patrol contacts reported Gabumi Area; 5th Australian Division troops killed 12 found 208 dead inland from Gauss Point. Naval: PT's sank 2 large barges Rein Bay, sank 1 damaged another of 5 large barges off Cape Beechey, received heavy fire from shore and barges. Air. Operations February 19th: (1) 12 B25's attacked convoy in and south of Gazelle Channel, sank 12,000 ton vessel, 1 SNA truck 2 patrol craft, 1 Corvette, 1 barge, damaged medium freighter transport strafed destroyer. (2) Reconnaissance B25 sank 1500 ton freighter damaged another, also damaged SNA truck Gazelle CM-IN-14911 (21 Feb 44) E. 0. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21.1973 45 S COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 BECHEL INCOMING BANK SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To : Page 3 War No. C 1982 COMPENSOPAC No. # Ft Shafter No. # New Delhi No. / Chungking No. # 21st February 1944 Channel. Operations February 20th: (3) Preliminary report: B24's sank 11,000 ton, 12,000 ton freighter; reconnaissance B25 sank 1 1500 ton vessel, damaged 2 others Kavieng Area. (4) Reconnaissance night B24 bombed and left sinking 6,000 ton freighter 27 miles north But Stop. (5) 15 RAAF Vengeances bombed personnel areas Nubia plantation (Hansa Bay), 12 escorting P40's strafed same area silenced 5 gun positions. (6) 6 RAAF Vengeances dive bombed dump areas north weat Aiyau (Mintjim Valley), 6 P39's bombed Bogadjim). and strafed enemy positions Kulau Area (23 miles west Northwestern Area. Air. Operations: (7) 18 B24's bomber runvay and dispersal areas Laha airdrome caused numerous fires and explosions visible 60 miles, CM-IN-14911 (21 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E.O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4 To: WAR No. C 1982 COMGENSOPAC No Ft Shafter TH No New Delhi No Chungking No 21 February 1944 SOUPAC forces. Air. Operations February 19: (8) 6 Avengers, 4 Dauntless bombed strafed and rocket bombed targets around Torokina Perimeter, destroy- ed bridge over Hongorai River (south vest coast). (9) 48 Dauntless, 23 Avengers to attack shipping Simpson Harbour, cloud prevented, attacked Lakunai air- drome scored number hits on gun positions, Avengers fired rockets, 1 of 20 enemy fighters intercepting shot down by bombers, Allied fighter cover shot down 22 of 50 enemy fighters engaged probably destroyed 1 other; returning fighters shot down enemy floatplane over Nov Ireland; 1 Corsair missing. (10) 6 B-24's bombed Lakunai, 14 others dropped 52 bombs on Tobera, left runvay unserviceable, 3 of 16 Interceptors vere shot down by bombers, 2 others were proba- bly destroyed by escorting fighters. Part 3. Weather. Deep lov cloud over ranges in afternoon and evening and over sea at night through northeastern area, considerable cloud along north coast New Guinea; vell broken middle cloud extended over northwestern area, low cloud with rain developed at night. Air. (1) 60 by 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition CM-IN-14911 (21 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May & MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 12256 See 24 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: WAR No. C 1982 COMGENSOPAC No # Pt Shafter TH No # Now Delhi No # Chungking No # 21 February 1944 bombs dropped from 100 feet and under; 21,700 rounds 50, 6,200 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; light to intense light and medium accurate and inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (2) 4 by 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bomba dropped from minimum altitude; 3,000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; intense inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. (3) No details. (4) 2 by 1,000 lb ***** by 500 lb demolition bombs dropped from 1,500 feet; slight light and madium inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (5) 30 by 500 1b demolition .025 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 3,000 to 1,000 feet, 3,000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by Vongeanoos 12,000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by P40's; siight to moderate inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. (6) No details received. (7) 77 by 500 1b incendiary, 231 by 120 lb fragmentation bombs dropped from 13,600 to 9,000 feet; moderate medium and heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire. No 31g. e Omission being serviced. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2. CG AAF, Gen. Vandegrift, Field Marshal Dill, White House) Adm King, Log DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-14911 (21 Feb 44) 17592 mlc E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY*No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Roh GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 1883 COMMENSOPAC Unnumbered Ft Shafter E New Delhi n Chungking " 19 February, 1944. From OHQ SWPA, to Chief of Staff War Dept, COMGEN Havaiian Dept, CONGEN USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMNTEL and AMMISCA 0 1883. Report of operations SOUWESPAC Area. 1300z/18 signed MacArthur. Bougainville: N11 contact reported 5,000 yards north Torokina perimoter. New Iroland: Kavieng: 2 madium 1 small freighter reported midday February 17. barges only following afternoon. Dyaul Islands 1 medium 2 unidentified vessele sighted heading south east 25 miles to south moreing February 17. Rev Guinea: Wewak: 6/10 bombers sighted Boram February 16. Hansa Bay: 8 barges sighted Ocar Avar Point morn- ing February 17. Northwestern Area: Kai Island: Photographs Feb 17th show 8 fighters 5 bombers, 9 new bomber revetments Langgoer; year and Doeroa runvays cerviceable, partly cleared 5600 foot runvay Letroean (6 miles south west Langgoer). CM-IN-13509 (19 Foo 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 3 00 Samespre COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 LUIONZAN SECUEL INCOMING creatives RAW SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Boh GHQ SWPA Page -2- Tot WAR 0 1883 Other Addressees -Unnumbered 19 February, 1944. Northeastero Area: Land: Saidor: 5th Australian Division troops killed 155 found 83 others dead on trails inland from Gali; 2 light raids on US Forces south vest Saidor repulsed. Air. Enemy actions Light raid Arave, no damage. Operations February 16: (1) 16 P40's bombed gun positions Wewak Area, runway Boram, scored damaging near misses on small freighter off Kairiru Island, also strafed targets. (2) 18 RAAF Vengeandes P40's bombed and strafed villages Yoga Yoga Area (south Saidor) destroyed huts started fires. February 17: (3) 39 B24's to attack Panapai Airdrome, 16 failed roach target due weather bombed Talasea with excellent results, 5 salvoed bombs, 18 hit target left large braters in runway. (4) 16 B25's attacked shipping off Nev Hanover (refers paragraph 3 preceding report). (5) 1 B24, 2 B25's on reconnaissance bombed Karkar Island and buildings Hanca Bay. CM-IN-13509 (19 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD lotter. May MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 WEBEV BECKET INCONING SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER 6m INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Eeh GHQ SWPA Page -3- To: WAR o 1883 Other Addressees- Unnumbered 19 February, 1944. (6) 2 P39's strafed roads south Madang hit trucks bit buildings Madang Airdrome. Operations February 18th (7) 28 RAAF Beauforts led by 5 path finding A20's bombed Gavuvu Area (Cape Hoskins), excellent bombing. (8) 2 P39'a strafed villages Talases Area. (9) 7 P40's, 6 P39's bombed and strafed villages Madang Area, hit personnel and buildings, silenced am positions. Northwestern Area. Operations: (10) 3 RAAF Hudsons bombed Manatuto, left bridge burning. SOUPAC Forces. Land: Allied Artillery active Torokina Area. Green Islandar Major Portmon Dokonian and Tangalan Plantations captured, also occupied Serot Islands. Naval: Preliminary reporter Surface foroes shelled Kavieng Harbour and supply areas for 50 minutes dawn February 18, runway hit, shore batteries silenced, tanker blown up and small shipping hit; no damage sustained from shore CM-IN-13509 (19 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date, COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 45 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech CHIQ SWPA Page -4- TO: WAR C 1883 Other Addressess Unnumbered 19 February, 1944. fire. Early same morning surface force surprised Simpson Harbour, shelled Rabaul and Vunapope troop areas, silenced shore batteriesNo damage Allied vessels, smoke screon covered force. Air. Operations February 17. (11) 4 Dauntless 2 Avengers hit bridge, strafed, bivouace in Empress Augusta Bay Area, Corsairs strafed barge south coast, 4 Hellcate strafed Radar Station Cape Saint George. (12) 47 Dauntless 23 Avengers attacked shipp- ing Keravia Bay, scored 19 direct hits, 15 near misses on 12 vessels including 1 tanker 4 cargo vessela (possibly sunk) 2 destroyers and 1 patrol craft, also scored hits among 20 barges, hit naval gun; escorting fighters shot down 8 enemy 2 others probably; 2 Corsairs, 2 Dauntless missing. (13) Night Catalinas bombed targets Buka Island. Weather. Broken to overcast cloud with rain areas and flying conditions at times below average, areas of thick weather through central regions) Monsoon prevails throughout Northwestern Area but average flying conditions except for evening deterioration. Air. (1) 32 300 1b demolition bombs dropped from 17000 to 9000 feet; 2200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; intense heavy accurate anti aircraft fire. CM-IN-13509 (19 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. S(R) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May MAY 1972 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Rob GHQ SWPA Page -5- To: WAR C 1883 Other Addressees Unmumbered 19 February, 1944. (2) 35 500 1b ins tantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 2000 to 1000 feet; 4600 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing) slight light inscourate anti-aircraft firs. (3) 114 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 15000 feet Panapai, 35 jettisoned in seaj 65 1000 1b instantaneous, 24 1000 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped Talasea from 12000 to 9000 feet, elight to moderate heavy and medium insccurate anti aircraft fire Pasapai. (4) 25 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demo1- ition bombs dropped from 1000 to 150 feet; 25,200 rounds 50, 1000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light anti aircraft fire. (5) 4 500 1b, 4 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds de- lay, 6 500 1b .025 seconds delay bombs dropped from 10,000 feet; slight heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire Hansa Bay. (6) No details received. (7) 100 250 1b general purpose, 57 500 1b medium capacity bombs dropped from 11,500 feet by Beauforts; no details received A20's. (8) No details received. (9) 7 500 lb bombs dropped from 7,500 feet, DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-13509 (19 Feb 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (E) OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN 45 DECLASSIFIED income WE2220 SECURE KYS SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -6- To: WAR 1883 Other Addressees Unnumbered 19 February, 1944. 7500 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from minimum altitude by P40's) no details received P39's. (10) 15 100 1b demolition bombs, 30 4 1b incendiaries dropped from 1000 feet, 1 hung up and returned; 10,000 rounds 30 calibre fired in straf- ing; moderate light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. Add to Paragraph 4 preceding report another 4 500 1b demolition bombs dropped. No 31g ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CGAAF Field Marshal Dill Gen Vandegrift White House Adm King Log CM-IN-13509 (19 Feb 44) 1612Z jb DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and B(D) et (E) OSD letter, May 1 1972 Date, MAY 211973 By DBS 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 / SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER on INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Ech OHQ SWPA To: WAR C 1841 COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered Ft Shafter TH # Nev Delhi # Chungking a 18 February, 1944. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, Commanding General Havaiian Department, Commanding General USAFIMPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMDEL, AMMISCA, C 1842. Operations report SOUWESPAC Aroa. 13002/16 to 13002/17, signed MacArthur. Nev Hanover: 2 destroyers 1 large transport 4 small freighters sighted heading south east north west Cape Matanalem afternoon February 16th; 3 small freighters, 1 destroyer sighted anchored in Torre Islands Harbour, north New Hanover norning February 17th; 2 light cruisers, 1 large transport reported on south eastorly course south Cape Matanawem morning February 17th. New Guinear Wewaki 1 medium vessel 3 seatrucks reported in area February 15th. Saidor: Further 346 Japanese reported passed through Tarikngan February 15th. North Western Area: Kai Islands: 2 seatrucks reported in Doela Bay. Banda Sea: 1 merchant vessel 2 small escorts sighted course 025 degrees south Banda Islands February 16th. Philippines: 3 large 2 medium merchant vessels reported heading north by east off east coast Mindanao DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (EI). CM-IN-12672 (18 Feb 44) OSD letter, May 4 1972 Date MAY 21 white 1943use 1973 By DBS 300 Sowespac I 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Prom: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -2- To: WAR C 1841 Book Message Unnumbered 18 February, 1944. North Eastern Area. Land: Arawe: 128th Infantry in contact with enemy positions half mile north east Gabumi. New Britain: Patrols active east Cape Gloucester and from Arave Area. Navel: PT's shelled possible enemy camp sites on Pulie River (Arave). Air: Enemy action: Raid Cape Gloucester midday February 16th caused some damage to shipping, some casualties. Ineffective raid Arave. Operations February 16th: (1) 38 B24's to attack Kavieng Airdroms: 2 bombed Garove buildings, 2 destroyed buildings Talasea, 6 hit cloud covered Panapai, 28 bombed target hit gun positions and runway (2) 65 B25's to attack shipping New Hanover Area, 22 found nil targets bombed and strafed buildings installations Garove Island with excellent results caused explosions and fires, 43 skip bombed shipping destroyed 7500 ton tanker, 2 2000 ton merchant vessels,2 Corvettes. Operations February 17th: DECLASSIFIED E O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) CM-IN-12672 (18 Feb 44) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Dati MAY 21 1973 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Boh OHQ SWPA Page -3- To: WAR o 1841 Book Message Unnumbered 18 February, 1944. (3) Preliminary report: B25's attacked shipping near New Hanover sank 2 2000 ton merchant vessels, 1 500 ton vessel and probably sank sub- marine. (4) Reconnaissance night B24's bombed and damaged subehaser off New Ireland, scored near misses left sinking 1 2000 ton freighter 45 miles west New Hanover. (5) Six RAAF Vengeances bombed and strafed stores area Alexishafen, 8 escorting RAAF P40's also bombed and strafed area caused fires and damaged Lugger. (6) 2 RAAF P40's strafed 18th Army Head- quarters Umron Mission (Medeng). (7) 8 P39's bombed and strafed enemy positions upper Mintjim Valley; Squadron RAAF P 40's raided enemy motor pool on Yaula Bogadjim Road. Solomons. Land: Allied patrols in strength attacked enemy positions vicinity Laruma River killed 30, other patrols active to south and east report large number enemy patrols in area. Naval: PT's shelled Mosiga strafed targets Buka Island, engaged barges east Bougainville sank 1. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-12672 (18 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. I(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS Date MAY 1973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page -4- To: WAR 0 1841 Book message Unnumberrd 18 February, 1944. Air. Enemy actions Light raid Green Island night February 15th, next night Venturas destroyed 2 enemy float planes in area. Operations February 16th (8) 2 Corsairs 2 Dauntlees raided Nibo area, strafed gun positions Kshili, Eara and Ballale. (9) Patrolling aircraft senk 2 barges south east Bougainville strafed targets Buka area, patroll- ing fighter shot down enemy boather Buke. (10) 12 B24's bombed Vunakaneu runway and revetments damaged 3 grounded bombers, oil inter- ception. Part 3 Weather. Increased cloud and frequent rain along north coast New Guinea and Bismarok Bea, many showers Solomon Sea) broken middle level oloud with rain Arafura Sea, bad weather at night. Air. (1) 42 1000 1b ine tantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 18,900 feet Panapai; 153 1000 1b instantaneous demolition, 28 1000 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped Havieng from 18,900 to 12,000 feet; 28 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped Talasea from 17,000 to 11,700 feet; 7 1000 1b 1/10th second delay and 7 ins tan- taneous demolition bombe dropped Garove Island, 7 jettisoned CM-IN-12672 (18 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) of (6) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Eeh GHQ SWPA Page -5- To: WAR C 1841 Book Message Unnumbered 18 February, 1944. at sea; slight heavy insccurate anti aircraft fire. (2) 284 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 1000 feet to minimum altitude, 86,400 rounds 50, 14,100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; mainly slight light insocurate anti aircraft fire from shipping and shore. (3) 50 details received. (4) 4 500 1b, 2 1000 1b demolition bombs dropped from 1500 feet. (5) 12 500 1b ins tantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 1500 feet, 3100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by Vengeances; 9 500 1b bombs dropped, 5000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by P40's) elight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (6) 800 rounds 50 celibre fired in strafing. (7) 8 250 1b demolition bombs dropped from 2000 feet; 142 rounds 37MM, 300 rounds 50, 2900 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from 50 feet by P39'sj no details received P40's. Refer paragraph 16 report covering February 15th: 9,700 rounds 50 calibre fired in combat by P47's and 16 P40's. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF ADM. KING DECLASSIFIED GEN. VANDEGRIFT E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (II) CC/S(CAPT. ROYAL, USN) OSD letter, May , 1972 FIELD MARSHAL DILL WHITE HOUSE By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 L00 4172 ong 59 CM-IN-12672 (18 El COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER for INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR 0 1809 COMGENSOPAC No Ft Shafter No New Delhi No Chungiting No 17 Feb 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, COMGEN Havaiian Department, COMGEN USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, OG AMMISCA, OG AMMDEL. Report of operations SOWESPAC Area period 13002/15 to 1300Z/16 signed Maturthur. New Hanover: Night reconnaissance plane reported 14 vessels with possibly 15; further 8 vicinity Mussau Island midnight February 2 destroyers, 1 large 2 small merchant vessele sighted heading south east off Cape Matanalem afternoon next day. New Britain: Rabaul: 18 small cargo vessels 390 barges photographed in harbour February 15. Talasea: Floatplane reported landing Garua Harbour. New Guinea: Wevak: 12 landing barges reported 15 miles north vest early morning February 16. CM-IN-12177 (17 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E.O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of, OSD letter, May L 1974 MAY 21 1973 3 as Sowespac By DBS Date 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA Date. 4/13/2014 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 1809 COMGENSOPAC No # Ft Shafter No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 17 Feb 1944 Saidor: Total 985 enemy reported moved west from Tarikngan (12 miles south by west Saidor) from February 13 to 15. Northwestern Area: Halmahera: Photographs Cape Lolobata show 4,500 foot strip probably serviceable with dispersal area; Considerable activity head Wasile Bay with 3 new jetties. Northeastern Area. Land. Cape Gloucester: Patrols found 57 enemy dead between Cape Mensing and El River, engaged small enemy force east El River killed 5 of 8 captured rest. Arave: Artillery destroyed enemy machine gun; Second defence position south west Saidor contacted. Air. Operations February 15: (1) 24 A20's, 71 B25's attacked Kavieng (see paragraph 1 preceding report), additional 13 B24's bombed Panapai and 12 others failing reach primary target bombed and destroyed buildings Talasea. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-12177 (17 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (is) OSD letter. May , MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 53 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 3 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 1809 COMGENSOPAC No # Ft Shafter No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 17 Feb 1944 (2) 4 P47's strafed Hansa Bay Area destroyed truck. (3) Reconnaissance night B24's bombed and damaged 2 small freighters off south coset New Hanover, badly damaged 1 merchant vessel hit destroyer 27 miles north west Mussau Island, harassed Kavieng Town starting fires. (4) Night Catalinas hit and left 8,000 ton tanker beached west New Hanover, hit and badly damaged 6,000 ton cargo vessel same area; Also strafed and damaged 10 barges off Musau Island. Operations February 16: (5) 5 RAAF A20's bombed enemy headquarters ADUF Cape Hoskins, bombing excellent. (6) 25 RAAF Beauforts continued attack on Wunung Plantation, Jacquinot Bay, caused explosion hit bridge, bombing excellent. Northwestern Area. Air. Operations: (7) 11 Dutch B25's bombed Ambon Jetty and Barracks Area started numerous fires, silenced gun positions, shot down 1 of 2 intercepting fighters. (8) 14 B24's to bomb Halong, 1 returned due engine trouble, 2 failed take off, 1 bombed Haroskos Runway, 1 CM-IN-12177 (17 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 4, 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 4 From: Rear Bohelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 1809 COMMENSOPAC No Ft Shafter No New Delhi No Chungking No # 17 Feb 1944 bombed Sumlaki, 9 bombed target area caused explosions started large fires hangar and dispersal areas. (9) 5 RAAF Beaufighters bombed and strafed Doka Uarat Runway (Trangan Island). Solomons. Air. Enemy Action: 2 aircraft ineffectively bombed Treasury Island. 15 enemy dive bombers unsuccessfully attacked shipping Green Island, Allied fighters shot down 6. Operations February 15: (10) 6 Dauntless bombed bridges Marirjoi River, hit targets outside Allied positions Empress Augusta Bay; 11 B24's failing reach Rabaul bombed Kahili. (11) 20 B24's bombed and left Borpop Runvay un- serviceable, hit gun positions. (12) Further details Rabaul strike February 14: 28 B24's bombed Rapopo revetment areas, 30 B25's bombed Vunakanau, cloud obscured results, covering fighters shot down 1, probably destroyed another of 20 interceptors. (13) Next day 23 B25's bombed Vunnkanau, report good pattern over airdrome, 9 of estimated 50 enemy interceptors vere shot down, 2 others probable; DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-12177 (17 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date, 59 SEVIILT COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT NARA Date SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 5 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR o 1809 COMOENSOPAC No # Ft Shafter No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 17 Feb 1944 1 P38 lost, pilot safe. (14) Reconnaissance aircraft bombed islands east Buka Passage and Motupena Point. Weather. Deep lov cloud and heavy showers north New Ireland, broken to overcast cloud northern Bismarck Sea; Broken to overcast low cloud and showers eastern Arafura Sea, overcast middle cloud Banda Bea. Air. (1) 87 by 500, 3 by 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 4 by 500 1b bombs jettisoned, # rounds 50 calibre fires in strafing by A20's; 334 by 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 97,100 rounds 50, 11,000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by B25's; 311ght to intense accurate and inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres; 84 by 1000 1b .025 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from 18,000 feet Panapai, slight mostly accurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres; 84 by 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 6000 feet Talasea, elight light insccurate anti aircraft fire from nearby island. (2) No details received. (3) 2 by 1000 lb, 4 by 500 1b bombs dropped from CM-IN-12177 (17 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 58 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 6 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR o 1809 COMGENSOPAC No # Pt Shafter No # New Delhi No Chungking No 17 Feb 1944 1500 feet on vessels New Hanover, moderate light accurate anti aircraft fire from larger vessel; 2 by 1000 lb, 4 by 500 1b bombs dropped from 2000 feet on merchant vessel and destroyer Mussau Island, intense light and modium insccurate anti aircraft fire from destroyer; 13 by 100 1b instantaneous demolition, 30 by 20 1b fragmentation, 2 by 100 1b incendiary clusters, 28 pairs bottles dropped from 10,000 Feet Kavieng; Slight medium and heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (4) No details received. (5) 16 by 250 lb, 4 by 500 1b general purpose 11 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from 50' feet; 1900 rounds 50, 100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (6) 90 by 250 lb general purpose instantaneous rod extension fuse, 34 by 500 1b medium capacity bombs dropped from 12,500 to 10,200 feet. (7) 55 by 120 lb fragmentation clusters, 11 by 150 1b incendiary clusters dropped from 9500 to 6500 feet; Moderate medium and heavy anti aircraft fire some accurate. CM-IN-12177 (17 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. S(E) and 8(D) of (6) OFD letter. May , 1972 Date MAY 21 1973 P. LBS COPY No. 53 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 7 To: WAR C 1809 COMOENSOPAC No # Ft Shafter No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 17 Feb 1944 (8) 81 by 500 1b general purpose instantaneous demo- lition bombs dropped from 13000 to 9000 feet Halong, 9 dropped Svuulaki, 8 Haroekoe; intense medium and heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire (9) 10 by 250 1b general purpose 11 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 2 jettisoned in sea; 1650 rounds 20 MM, 2900 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; Nil anti aircraft fire. No Sig *Being Serviced ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF Gen Vandegrift Field Marshal Dill CC/S Capt Royal USN Adm King White House Log CM-IN-12177 (17 Feb 44) 22142 e jm E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Bec. 3(B) and 5(D) of (6) OSD letter, May 1, MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 MI NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTME DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 1 FROM COMSONESTPACFOR 2 PRIORITY 3 RELEASED BY COMDESRON 5 ROUTINE 18 FEBRUARY 1944 FOR ACTION 4 ROUTINE COMDESRON 24 & DATE CTG 70.1 DEFERRED 6 7 2240 FEB 17 1944 R TOR CODEROOM 9 DECODED BY SCHMICK CTF 74 PRIORITY 10 COMCRUDIV 15 ROUTINE Il PARAPHRASED IMRIE INFORMATION ROUTINE BY COMDESDIV 38 12 CTF 73 DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY (UNLISTED CALL) 14 15 INLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL BE TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE ANJ AS ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 150259 NCR 7686 CHECK BELOW 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME OF GCT an ON OUTGOING DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCN CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BECINNING TEST ACTURN 21 P-O 22 INTERCEPT 23 F-01 24 F-02 25 26 F-05 27 F-07 28 29 CONSIDERATION BEING CIVEN TO COORDINATED PATROLS BY F-1 30 F-2 31 DD'S AND PT'S. GENERAL PLAN IS TO EMPLOY DD'S AGAINST 32 F-20 33 ENEMY GUN POSITIONS WHICH FIRE ON PATROLLING PT'S AND F-3 34 as n AGAINST LARGE BARGES WHICH MAY BE ENCOUNTERED. YOUR F-30 36 37 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS REQUESTED. INCLUDE REPORTS E-31 38 F-32 39 ON NECESSARY COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN PT'S AND DD'S. F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FX01 45 FX30 46 47 DECLASSIFIED FX37 48 E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(B) and 5(D),95 PX40 (E) 49 OSD letter, May , 1973 to MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date, VCNO 52 SECRET Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) OPNAY-NCH-15 150259 300 Sowespac DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 / SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER fun INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY Whoose From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA To: War No. C 1732 COMGENSOPAC No. # Ft Shafter No. # New Delhi No. # Chungking No. # 15th February 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, Com- manding General Havaiian Department, Commanding General USAF- ISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMDEL, AMMISCA C 1732. New Ireland: Kavieng: 13,000 ton cargo vessel 6 small freighters reported in harbour afternoon February 14; photographs February 14 show Kavieng runway unservicesble, Panapai serviceable. New Britain: Rabaul: Photographs 22102/13 show 110 fighters 30 dive bombers 20 medium bombers, Bismarck Sea: Submarine sighted heading south east by south Manus Island, another 20 miles off Finschhafen Feb- ruary 14. New Guinea: Hollandia: Photographs February 12 show 33 fighters 65 light bombers 56 medium bombers on 3 airdromes. Aitape: 6 small vessels sighted on south westerly course 50 miles north early morning February 14. Report of operations SOUWESPAC area. 13002/13 to 13002/14 signed MacArthur. Wewak: Fighter patrol morning February 14 reports DECLASSIFIED E.O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (6) CM-IN-10505 (15 Feb 44) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS DatMAY 21 1973 300 Sawespre 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY Page - 2- From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA To: War No. C 1732 Book message 15th February 1944 nil aircraft but Boram, 25 to 30 Dagua 5 Wevak. Hansa Bay: small merchant vessel 21 barges sighted morning February 14, End of part 1. Part 2, North Eastern Area: Land : Cape Glocester: Marines established perimeter Gorissi, patrolling east cape Mensing. Air. Enemy action: 2 light raids Arawe morning Feb- ruary 14, nil damage, 2 predavn raids Cape Gloucester same day, 1 enemy aircraft destroyed by anti aircraft fire; enemy aircraft unsuccessfully attacked PT's north Karkar Island. Operations February 14: (1) B24 bombed Kavieng predawn, at midday 36 B24's covered by P38's raided Panapai and Kavieng airdromes hit and left runways unserviceable, silenced gun positions, started fires in stores areas. (2) 93 B25's continued their medium level attacks on Momote airdrome and adjacent areas, excellent bombing further wrecked runvay, started fuel fires. (3) Night Cataline attacked 1,000 ton freighter tow- ing 1 barge off Sepik River mouth, left vessel beached and sinking. (4) 23 RAAF Beauforts escorted by P40's bombed CM-IN-10505 (15 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) or (B) OSD letter. May 1, MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 33 or 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY Page -3- From: Rear Ech GHQ BWPA To: War No. 0 1732 Book message 15th February 1944 bivouac and dump areas Pora Pora, bombing graded excellent, (5) 3 P38's 1 P47 strafed targets Talasea area, 3 RAAF A20's bombed Cape Beechey area caused large explosions and fires. (6) Reconnaissance B24's bombed Garove and Karkar Islands. (7) Preliminary report: 22 A20's raided Dagua air- drome damaged 2 aircraft on ground, started fires; 20 enemy fighters ineffectively intercepted, escorting fighters shot down 6 enemy probably destroyed 1 other. (8) 2 RAAF P40's strafed stores and village Erima Plantation, started fires. Solomons. Land. Preliminary report; SOUPAC forces successfully landed Green Island evening February 14 encount- ered only slight opposition. Naval: LCM gunboat bombarded Mosiga. Air. Enemy action: aircraft attacked allied PT's west damage. Buka, caused home damage, raided Treasury Island causing Operations February 13: (9) 4 Dauntless raided Aitara area destroyed buildings. DECLASSIFIED OM-IN-10505 (15 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) of (E) OSD letter. May 4, 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 59 COPY No: THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY Page -4- From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA To: War No. C 1732 Book message 15th February 1944 (10) 8 Avengers bombed Rabaul targets before dawn, at midday 51 Dauntless, 24 Avengers hit Vunakanau runvay and gun positions destroyed 2 bombers, of 12 enemy fighters inter- cepting 1 vas probably destroyed, 30 to 4C enemy fighters engaged Allied fighters, 7 were destroyed 4 more were probably destroyed, 3 Allied aircraft lost. (11) Same time 20 B25's attacked Tobera runway and dispersal areas, started fires, nil interception. (12) Same time 23 B24's bombed Lakunai, scored 20 hits on concrete, 88 hits on or near mat destroyed buildings, dam- aged 6 grounded fighters. (13) Reconnaissance aircraft destroyed barge Babase Island, bombed island vest Buka. (14) 1 fighter claimed probably destroyed Rabaul February 12, nov assessed as definitely destroyed. Part 3. Weather. Thick weather over Vitiaz Strait but favour- able elsewhere except for frontal zone approaching from north western New Guinea; north vestern area mainly favourable ex- cept for frontal zone with rain areas over Banda Arafura Seas, Air. (1) 68 by 1000 pound general purpose 1/10 second CM-IN-10505 (15 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Bec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May , 1972 Date MAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE - PRIORITY Page -5- From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA To: War No. C 1732 Book message 15th February 1944 delay bombs dropped from 16,500 feet by B24's; slight to moderate, medium and heavy, inacourate anit aircraft fire encountered. (2) 72 by 1,000 pound, 170 by 500 pound 1/10 second delay 21 by 1,000 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 8,500 to 7,300 feet; 11,050 rounds 50 calibre expended in strafing from 100 feet; only slight machine gun fire encount- ered. (3) 4 by 500 pound general purpose, 30 fragmentation bombs dropped from unstated altitude, 1800 rounds 50 and 30 calibre expended in strafing. (4) 27 by 500 pound general purpose, 17 by 500 pound medium capacity, 86 by 250 pound general purpose instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 11,000 feet. (5) No details P38's or P47's} 8 by 250 pound general purpose instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 50 feet by A20's; slight light insccurate anti aircraft fire encount- ered Cape Beechey. (6) 6 by 500 pound 1/10 second delay bombs dropped from 15,000 feet. (7) No details received. (8) No details received. Refer paragraph 5 of pre- ceeding report: 716 by 23 pound parafrags, 41 by 300 pound, DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-10505 (15 Feb 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May L 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page - 6 - SECRET PRIORITY From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA To: War No. C 1732 Book Message 15th February 1944 2 by 500 pound 8 to 11 seconds delay bomba dropped from un- stated altitude; 33,950 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing. Refer paragraph 8 of operations report covering 12/13 February: 137 by 500 pound, 2 by 300 pound, 2 by 250 pound 4 to 5 seconds delay bomba dropped from minimum altitude; 47,850 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing. No sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF Adm King Gen Vandegrift cc/s (Capt Royal USN) Sir John Dill White House Log CM-IN-10505 (15 Feb 44) 15592 mlc (mem) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (E) OSD letter. May , 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 MI 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 1687 COMGENSOPAC No Ft Shafter No New Delhi No Chungling No 14th February 1944 From GHIQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, COMGEN Hawaiian Department, COMGEN USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, CG AMMDEL, CG AMMISCA, C 1687. Report of operations SOUWESPAC Area. 13002/10 to 1300/13 signed MacArthur. New Ireland: Submarine sighted 20 miles North Nissan Island heading southeast morning February 13. Kavieng: One destroyer 3 small merchant vessels several barges reported by attacking aircraft February 13. Admiralty Islands: Three seatrucks reported Lorengau morning February 13. New Britain: Large barge on Easterly course sighted south Mon- tacue Harbour midday February 13. Rabaul photographs 22152/ 12 shows 47 fighters Lakunai, 49 fighters Tobers, 17 dive bombers 21 medium bombers Vunakanau. Hours DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9796 (14 Feb 44) E. O. 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May (1672 Gord By DBS Date MAY 21-973 300 Sowespac COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By: DT NADA SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echolon GHQ SWPA Page-2- To: WAR 0 1687 CONGENSOPAC Noff Fort Shafter No# Nev Delhi No# Chungking No# 14th February 1944 New Guines: Wevak Area: Two thousand ton tanker reported heading Hollandia, possible destroyer and submarine off Tadji midday February 13, also seatruck off Muschu Island. Part two. Northeastern Area. Land: Areve: Artillery active, fired on Mouth Pulie River. US Casualties to February 14: Arawe: One hundred and twenty seven killed, 250 vounded, 8 missing. Gloucester: Three hundred and thirteen killed, 858 wounded, 2 missing. \ Saidor: Twenty five killed, 48 wounded, 2 missing. OM-IN-9796 (14 Feb 44) E.O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 1, MAY 211973 50 By DBS Date COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page-3- To: WAR C 1687 CONGENSOPAC No# Fort Shafter No# New Delhi No# Chungking No. 14th February Naval: Two destroyers bombarded gun positions Herwath Point and Singor (vest Saidor). Air. Enemy action: Light raid Gloucester night February 11 caused some casualties and damage; light raid Arave next night caused nil damage. Operations February 13: (1) Forth Two B24's covered by P38's raided Kavieng airdrome left runway unserviceable, destroyed 2 grounded bombers started fires; 1 B24 failing reach target bombed Cape Hoskins. (2) Eighty two B25's bombed Momote Airdrome and adjacent supply areas caused fires and explosions, bombing reported excellent. (3) Reconnaissance B24's bombed Momote and Talasea buildings, B25 hit Garove and Unea Islands. (4) Two P47's searched open and vide bays strafed barge and burned building, 2 RAAP A20's bombed loaded barge South Talases, 11 Spitfires strafed buildings Cape Beechey, 16 RAAF P40's boubed Gasmata Jette Area, excellent bombing. (5) Preliminary report: Twenty four A20's bombed Tadji airdroms (5 miles South East Aitape) destroyed 7 grounded aircraft probably destroyed 4 others; escorting fighters strafed and DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9796 (14 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page-4- To: WAR C 1687 COMGENSOPAC No# Fort Shafter No# New Delhi No# Chungking NO# 14th February 1944 left 3,000 ton vessel burning. (6) Sixteen RAAF Vengeances bombed Siar Island, Madang, scored direct hits village area, escorting P40's strafed Madgang Township starting fires. (7) Six P39's bombed and strafed Cape Iris, 5 Valley) others strafed enemy positions Saipa number 2 (upper Mintjim Solomons. Air. Enemy action: Light action: Light raids reported on Treasury and Torokina slight damage, float plane strafed PT's. Operations February 12: (8) Catalinas bombed Mosiga and Siposai Island. (9) Three Dauntless bombed and strafed barges south Motupina, buildings Kieta and Kekere Plantation, 2 Venturas raided huts Numa Numa, 4 dauntless 2 Avengers patrolled Perimeter hit buildings and barge Jaba River. (10) Fifty nine Dauntless, 23 Avengers, 23 B25's, 21 B24's continued attack on Lakunai, Tobera and Vunakanau, dropped 179 tons of bombs escored number hits on runvays and gun positions, 7 of 40 intercepting fighters destroyed 2 others probable; Allied losses 1 Dauntless 1 Corsair 1 B24. (11) Reconnaissance aircraft scored hit on small vessel North Rebaul sank barge same area, strafed 3 barges Wide Bay, harassed Jaba River area. DECLASSIRED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) CM-IN-9796 (14 Feb 44) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date 53 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page-5- To: WAR C 1687 COMGENSOPAC No# Fort Shafter No# New Delhi Not Chungking No# 14th February 1944 Part three. Weather: Broken middle cloud and scattered rain Solowon and Bismarck Seas during day, increased cloud at night, thick veather over Huon Penninsula; broken middle and low cloud Arafura sea, unsettled weather Banda Sea. Air: (1) One hundred and ninety two 1,000 pound a 1/10th second delay bombs dropped from 20,000 to 17,000 feet; slight to moderate, heavy and medium, inaccurate antiaircraft fire encountered Kavieng; 6 1,000 pound instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 11,000 feet (Hoskins) alight medium inaccurate anti-aircraft fire sncountered. (2) Fifty by 1,000 pound 1/10th second delay, 176 500 pound instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8500 to 6500 feet. (3) No details received. (4) No details received vide and open hays; 8 250 pound general purpose 11 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from 1000 to 50 feet, 1300 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing Talasea; 400 rounds 20 MM 1400 rounds 30 calibre spent in strafing Cape Beechey; 16 500 pound instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 13,000 to 2500 feet Gasmata. CM-IN-9796 (14 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 1,1873 MAY 21,1973 By DBS Date, COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET 3 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page-6- To: WAR C 1687 COMGENSOPAC No# Fort Shafter No# New Delhi No# Chungking No# 14th February 1944 (5) No details received. (6) Thirty one 500 pound instantaneous demoli- tion bombs dropped from 10000 feet 5080 rounds 30 calibre expended in strafing 31ar Island; 2100 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing Madang. (7) No details received. Nosig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CC/S Capt. Royal, USN CG AAP Sir John Dill Adm King White House Gen Vandegrift Log CM-IN-9796 (14 Feb 44) 14432 DECLASSIFIED pa E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and S(D) of (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 Ru DT NADA Date SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE for Pase From: Tot PRIORITY Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA War Nr. C 1653 COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # Ft. Shafter Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 13th February 1944. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, COMGEN Havaiian Department, COMGEN USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, 0G AMMDEL CG AMMISCA, C 1653 Report of optne SOUWESPAO Area. period 13002/11th to 13002/12th signed MacArthur. New Ireland: submarine sighted south east Cape Seint George midday February 12th. New Britain: Rebaul: photographs February 11th show 13 small cargo ships 365 barges in harbour other shipp- ing unchanged; 50 fighters on Lakunai, all runvays service- able before strike. Cape Hoskins: 3 twin engined, 3 single engined, planes sighted in revetments evening February 12th. New Guinea: Aitape: 10/15 aircraft sighted on Tadji airdrome, others taking off; small freighter sighted heading down coast. Alexishafen: number 2 strip reported appeared serviceable afternoon February 11th. Saidor: approximately 800 enemy reported moving vest along track south of Saidor during February 10th and 11th. North Western Area: Enemy reconnaissance bomber Klana white E. 0. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. (E) and 8(D) of (E) CM-IN-9331 (13 Feb 44) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 Date, MAY 21.1973 300 Sourespace By DBS COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA TO: War Nr. C 1653 COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # Ft. Shafter Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No 1 Chungking Nr. No # 13th February 1944 Page 2 sighted over Timor Sea. Halmahera: 1 medium 2 small freighters 1 mine sweeper sighted heading east by south 75 miles east Cape Lelai. End of part 1. Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land: Cape Gloucester: Rooke and Sakar Islands occupied by Marines; patrols on Itne River and Cape Mensing destroyed large quantities enemy ammunition and supplies. Ramu Valley: patrol clashes reported upper Nintjim Valley. Naval: PT boats used rocket guns against buildings Mugil Harbour near Cape Oroisilles machine gunned floating dook south Madang night February 11th. Air. Enemy action: light raid Arave predavo February 12th; single aircraft bombed PT boats vest Gasmate night February 10th. Operations February 11th: (1) Patrolling P39's destroyed 2 small boats Cape Raoult, strafed launoh Telasea. (2) Two RAAF Beaufighters attacked submarine south east Gasmata. DECLASSIFIED OM-IN-9331 (13 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (S) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 Date, MAY 211973 By DBS COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1653 COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # Pt. Shafter Hr. No # Nev Delhi Nr. No Chungking Nr. No # 13th February 1944, Page 3 (3) Two P38's shot down enemy light bomber over Tadji strip. (4) Night Catalina hit cargo vessel (3,000 tons) left same listing Wewak Harbour. (5) Four RAAF P40's escorting Vengeances against Yoga Yoga Village strafed target set huts on fire. Operations February 12th: strikes against Kavieng and Momote cancelled due weather. (6) Reconnaissance B24 bombed Momote Jetty Area; another B24 scored hits Talasea buildings starting fires. (7) Patrolling P39's strafed boats along coast buildings Talasea Area. (8) Preliminary report 46 A20's devasated 3 vill- ages Murik Lagoon east Wewak, destroyed beached float plans exploded fuel dump; escorting fighters, including 12 RAAF P40's, strafed target, silenced anti aircraft guns Bunabub also strafed Alexishafen Airfield. (9) Reconnaissance B24 bombed village Karkar Is- land. (10) Eighteen RAAF Vengeances 12 RAAF P40's bombed strafed bridges supply dumps along Bogadjim Road. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9331 (13 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May % MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA. Date 4/13/94 Ho3a SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon CEHQ SWPA To: WAR Nr. C 1653 COMOENSOPAC NR. No# Ft Shafter NR. No# New Delhi NR. No# Chungking NR. No# 13th February 1944, page 4 (11) 8 P39 strafed Teteri Village, west Saidor, start- ing fires. North Western Area. Air. Operations night February 11: (12) 14 B24's to strike Kendari Airfield; 5 B24's caused explosions fires visible 60 miles, 2 others bombed Dilli starting fires; 5 others jettisoned bomb loads, 2 others returned them. SOUPAC Forces. Naval gunboat PT's plus cooperating Catalina attacked installations Mosiga, South West Bougainville nights February 9 and 10; PT's attacked barges Choiseul Bay and shore ponit- ions Mutupina and Islands west Buka. Air. Operations February 11: (13) 6 Dauntless attacked selected targets Choiseul Island. (14) 5 Dauntless 2 Venturas attacked targets beyond Torokina perimeter. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9331 (13 Feb 44) E. O. 11652. Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May LR?2 MAY 21 1973 LBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA. Date 4/13/04 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR Nr. C 1653 COMGENSOPAC Nr. No# Ft Shafter Nr. No# New Delhi Nr. No# Chungking Nr. No# 13th February 1944, page 5. (15) Reconnaissance B25 hit Hahela Mission buildings, East Buka passage, bombed Kapingamarangi Seaplane Base start- ing fires. (16) 2 Catalinas struck Mawaraka before dawn. (17) 24 Avengers 36 Dauntless covered by 42 Corsairs 24 Warhavks destroyed 6 barges fuel dump 13 buildings Vunapope damaged warehouses power plant with 42 tons bombs; 15 B-24's 14 P38's 11 Corsairs escort hit Tobera with 60 tons; 22 B25's escorted by 17 Corsairs 7 Hellcats struck Vunakanau with 32 tons; approximately 30 unenthusiastic fighters intercepted Rabaul strikes losing 3 definite 5 probables, 1 B25 1 Corsair lost. (18) Patrolling Venturas set 1 barge on fire Wide Bay, strafed look out post further North. Part 3. Weather. Heavy oloud over Solomon Sea, deep cloud banks over ranges in afternoon and evening produced showers, broken middle cloud and scattered showers Bismarch Sea; frontal zone with broken to overcast middle cloud with frequent rain patches Arkwura Sea. Air. (1) No details received. DECLASSIFIED E O. 11652, Sec. (E) and 8(D) or (E) CM-IN-9331 (13 Feb 44) OSD letter, May L, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 211973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT NARA Date w/ SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon CIHQ SWPA. To: WAR Nr. C 1653 COMORNSOPAC Nr. No# Ft Shafter Nr. No# Nev Delhi Nr. No# Chungking Hr. No# 13th February 1944, page 6. (2) 4 by 250 1b general purpose 1 second tail delay bombs dropped from 800 feet. (3) No details received. (4) 3 by 250 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from unstated altitude. (5) 2,100 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing from minimum altitude. (6) 6 by 500 1b 1/10 second delay bombs dropped from 8,000 feet on Momote, encountered slight light and medium in- accurate anti aircraft fire; 2 by 1,000 lb, 2 by 100 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped Talasea from 10,000 feet. (7) No details. (8) Incomplete reports give 86 by 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude by 24 aircraft, 35,400 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing by bombers, 9,000 rounds by fighters. (9) 2 by 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9,000 feet. (10) 36 by 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped, 3,400 rounds 30 calibre spent in strafing by bombers, fighters dropped 12 by 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs, spent 3,100 rounds 50 calibre in strafing. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9331 (13 Feb 44) E. 0. 11652 Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA. To: WAR Nr. C 1653 COMGENSOPAC Nr. No# Ft Shafter Nr. Noff Nev Delhi Nr. No# Chungking Nr. No# 13th February 1944, page7. (11) No details. (12) 43 by 300 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropp- ed from 13,000 to 9,000 feet on targets 12 by 300 1b bombs returned, 30 vere jettisoned; met intense light insocurate anti aircraft fire Kendari, none at Dilli. (13) Reference paragraph 9 preceding report: Vengeances dropped 23 by 500 1b instantaneous demolit- ion bombs from 2,000 feet; fired 6,000 rounds 30 calibre in strafing. No Sig. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF Adm King Gen Vandegrift White House CCS (Capt Royal, USN) Field Marshal D111 Log CM-IN-9331 (13 Feb 44) 20052 mos DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 4 1972 By DBS Date, MAY 211973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Run INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Beheloo, GHQ SWPA' To: War Mr. 0 1622 Ft. Shafter Nr. No # COMMENSOPAC Mr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 12th February 1944. To Chief of Staff War Dept to 00 Hawaiian Dept to CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAO to AMNIEL to AMMISCA C 1622. Report of operations SOWESPAO Area period 1300/10 to 13002/11 signed MacArthur. Kavieng: 1 medium 3 smaller merchant vessels, 1 probable destroyer sighted in barbour midday February 11th; 20 aircraft estimated on airdrome. Admiralty Ielands: 25 barges sighted vicinity Lorengau afternoon February 10th. New Britain: Rabaul: 40 to 60 opery fighters re- ported airborne by attacking SOUPAC aircraft midday February 10th) photographs harbour showed 2 submarines 2 patrol craft 2 tanker 2 medium 8 email freighters over 300 barges. Cape Demptor: submarine sighted 40 miles south afternoon February 11th. Cape Hoskinst attacking aircraft February 11th re- port Hoskins strip unserviceable, work proceeding Porapora strip. Cape Gloucoster: patrol to Cape Mensing reports finding 50 Japanese dead of starvation and disease. CM-IN-8438 (12 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 5(B) and 60) or (H) OSD letter, Reg. 02972 By DBS Date MAYkey 1973 300 Samespac 5 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2 From: Rear Echelon, GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1622 Pt. Shafter Rr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 12th February 1944 New Guinea: Begadjim: fighter patrol reports quantity stores Erima Wharf, well used tracks to Cape Her- warth. End of part 1. Part 2. North Eastern Area. Land: Patrol east Cape Mensing killed 16 enemy took 6 prisoners, located stores and ammunition dumps Kokopo. Saidor: 800 enemy dead counted vest of Gali brought known total enemy killed in Ruon Peninsula campaign to 4300 with a further estimated 7000 dead; final occupation of penin- sula concluded by meeting of Australian 5th Division with US r 32nd Division at Yagomi 23302/9th referred to in operations report covering February 9th. Ramu Valley: patrolling continues down Mintjim Valley. Air. Enemy action: Gloucester: 2 light raids night February 9th 4 following night, nil damage. Buna: single aircraft scored near miss on LST, slight damage. Operations February 10th: CM-IN-8438 (12 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 211973 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 3 From: Rear Echelon, GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. 0 1622 Ft. Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 12th February 1944 (1) Patrolling B24 bombed Momote runvay. (2) Two P39's searched coast east Arave, strafed barge Palix River and buildings Gasmata. (3) Twenty four RAAF Beauforts bombed dump areas Amgen River, bombing excellent, started fires; Spitfires and P40's covered. (4) Further 10 B24's bombed Boram Airdrome, 5 others bombed supplies on Vitar Point Alexishafen. Operations February 11th: (5) Forty six B24's bombed Kavieng Airdrome, scored sany hits on runway, destroyed 10 aircraft on ground, hit gun positions and building started fires caused explosions; 3 B24's failing reach target bombed Garove Island destroyed 10 buildings. (6) Two patrolling B24's bombed Unea and Tingwon Islands and buildings Talasea, 1 B25 bombed installations Cape Dampier. (7) Night Catalinas bombed strafed and probably sank sea truck Jacquinot Bey, also destroyed 3 large 2 smaller barges damaged 2 others Dogumur Bay (south east Hansa Bay). CM-IN-8438 (12 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 Date MAY 21.1973 By DBS 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 4 From: Rear Echelon, GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1622 Ft. Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No 1 New Delhi Nr. No / Chungking Nr. No # 12th February 1944 (8) Twenty four RAAF Beauforts bombed Pora Pora (Cape Hoskins) dump area bombing graded excellent, started fires. (9) Twelve RAAF Vengeances bombed and destroyed villages vicinity Yoga Yoga (south west Saidor), 4 escort- ing P47's strafed same area. Solomons. Air. Enemy action: light ineffective raid Torokina night February 10th. Operations February 10th: (10) Eleven Dauntless bombed targets outside Torokina perimeter, hit Puriata bridge and pillboxes Jaba River; 4 P39's burned barge Green Island bombed Bonis, 3 P39's left 2 barges afire Matchin Bay. (11) Three pairs Avengers bombed Tobera Rapopo and Lakunai at davn, 59 Dauntless 24 Avengers attacked Vunakanau mid morning scored numerous hits on runvay and gun positions destroyed 1 bomber probably destroyed 6 others on ground, started large fuel and oil fires, of approximately 40 enemy fighters airborne 11 were destroyed and 3 probably destroyed; 1 Avenger 1 Dauntless 1 Corsair missing. CM-IN-8438 (12 Feb 44) E. O. DEGLASSITIED 11652, Sec. 5(B) and 1972 5(D) of (it) OSD letter, May 1, MAY 21-1973 Date, By DBS COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 MI 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 5 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1622 Ft. Shafter Nr.No # CONGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 12th February 1944 (12) Later 24 B25's 21 B24's hit Vunakanau and Tobera Runvays and revetments starting fires; 21 enemy interceptors were shot down 6 others were probably destroyed; 1 Corsair lost; returning fighters destroyed schooner off Pondo Point. (13) Night Catalina bombed Redman and Soposa Islands, hombed Mosina, strafed gun position Puriata River; patrolling Venturas shot down 1 of 4 enemy fighters engaged south Cape Saing George. Part 3. Weather. Broken middle level cloud frequent showers, deep cloud over ranges in afternoon, considerable cloudiness along north coast New Guinea; broken cloud throughout the north western area with frequent showers. Air. (1) Two one thousand pound instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 6,000 feet. (2) Unknown number rounds fired, received moderate heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire from Avrin Island. (3) Forty eight 500 pound medium capacity 87 250 pound general purpose nose instantaneous rod extension bombs dropped from 12,500 to 11,000 feet by Beauforts;:2 500 pound DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-8438 (12 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 6 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1622 Ft. Shefter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 12th February 1944. medium capacity, 4 250 pound general purpose bombs returned. (4) Seventy 1000 pound instantaneous demolition bomba dropped from 19,000 feet Boram; alight to moderate heavy insccurate anti aircraft fire. (5). Three hundred and thirty two 1000 pound in- stantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 20,000 to 13,000 feet, slight to moderate, heavy, inaccurate anti aircraft fire encountered Kavieng; 22 1000 instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 18 to 13,000 feet Garove. (6) Twelve 500 pound instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 7,000 to 4,000 feet by B24's; 4 500 pound 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 9,000 feet by B25. (7) Three depth bombs dropped Jacquinot Bay; 3 500 pound bombs dropped Dogumur Bay; light, inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (8) Forty seven 500 pound, 90 250 pound general purpose nose instantaneous rod extension bombs dropped from 11,000 feet. (9) No details of bomb loads received 7,000 rounds 50 calibre expended in strafing by P47's. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAF DECLASSIFIED Adm. King E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) Gen, Vandegrift OSD letter, May & 1972 00/0 Capt. Royal, USN By DBS Date MAY 211973 White House Field Marshal Dill 59 Log CM-IN-8438 (12 1638z cv COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NI 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 1560 Ft Shafter Unnumbered New Caledonia # New Delhi If Chungking " 11 February, 1944. To Chief of Staff War Dept CG Hawaiian Dept OG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL 0 1560. Report of operations SOWESPAC Area. 13002/9 to 13002/10 signed MacArthur. New Ireland: Photographs Borpop February 9 show strip serviceable 3,100 feet, nil aircrart. New Britain: Rebaul: Photographs after strike Feb- ruary 9 show Tobera Lakunai concrete strips unserviceable, craters on Vunakanau; in Simpsons Harbour 2 submarines, 8 small cargo vessels, 225 barges. New Guinea: Wear: Catalina reported at least 70 barges along south and west shores Muschu Island night February 9. Alexishafen: 3 small vessels, course 100 degrees, sighted 18 miles north east early morning February 10. Northwestern Area: Aroe Islands: Beaufighters report increased activity Doka Barat strip, Nil at Trangan. End of Part 1. DECLASSIFIED OM-IN-7656 (11 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY while 21 House 1973 300 Sowespac 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT NARA Date SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2. To: WAR C 1560 Book Mesdage 11 February, 1944. Part 2. Northwestern Area. Land. Arawe: Patrols to Didmop and 2 miles north contacted no enemy. Saidor: Minor patrol clashes reported to southwest. Naval: PT's destroyed large barge Erima Plantation. Air. Operations February 10: (1) 2 patrolling B25's bombed Moate runway and Manus Island, cloud obscured results. (2) 4 RAAF beaufighters strafed and destroyed launch and small boat north Talasea. (3) 2 patrolling P39's shot down 1 of 2 enemy medium bombers engaged over Talasea. Other 2 P39's strafed buildings same area. (4) 4 RAAF A20's bombed and strafed Pora Pora (Hoskins) also strafed dump area Amgen River. 5 A20's bombed Mal Mal plantation. (5) Night Catalina bombed strafed and damaged 30 barges Muschu Island. (6) 25 B24's bombed Boram airdrome and adja- cent camp areas, cloud obsoured results. CM-IN-7656 (11 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 4, 1972, MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3. To: WAR C 1560 Book Message 11 February, 1944. (7) 5 P39's, 5 P40's strafed villages Kronprinz Harbour area February 9 started fires destroyed machine gun position. (8) 18 B24's failing reach Boram bombed Gragat Island and Madang area destroyed 10 large buildings. Northwestern Area. Air Operations: (9) 6 RAAF Beaufighters bombed Doka Barat runway (Aroe Islands) left supply dump burning, de- stroyed 2 trucks. (10) 14 B24's to attack Ambon: 5 jettisioned bombs after failing locate target due cloud, 1 returned due faulty bomb sight, 1 bombed Amaha1 Jetty area, 3 bombed Lautem, 4 dropped bombs vicinity target with unöbserved results, 1 enemy fighter attempting inter- ception south Lautem shot down. Solomons. Naval Action: Allied destroyers shelled Tiaraka (northwest Numa Numa) and Teopasing, results reported good. PT's strafed Lemanmanu mission (northwest Buka) and islands west and south Buka passage. Air. Enemy action: Light raid reported Torokina night February 9, allied interceptors destroyed 1 of 2 raiding bombers. Operations February 9: DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-7656 (11 Feb 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May MAT 1 1973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR. 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4 To: WAR C 1560 Book Message 11 February, 1944. (11) Catalina attacked beached barges south- east Kieta, 4 Dauntless bombed Bonis warehouses, 6 others scored hit on Puritata Bridge, strafed small boats Jaba River; 8 P39's bombed and strafed bivouac Tiaraka (Nume Numa). (12) 58 Dauntless, 24 Avengers raided Vunakanau midday hit 10 large gun positions started fires building area hit runvay strafed and probably destroyed 2 grounded aircraft, escorting fighters destroyed 2 enemy fighters probably another, 1 Warhawk lost. (13) 19 B24's, 24 B25's 55 fighters followed (12) hit Vunakanau and Tobera runways started large fires; of 30/40 enemy fighters attempting interception, 18 were destroyed 6 others probably destroyed, 1 Corsair lost. (14) Patrolling Venturas destroyed 2 damaged 2 of 4 barges sighted Green Island. Part 3. Weather. Decreased intensity of frontal zone and general improvement except for usual evening deteriorations; Northwestern area broken to overcast cloud and showers with adverse conditions at timos. Air. (1) 6 by 500 1b bombs dropped from 10,000 feet. CM-IN-7656 (11 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) end 5(D) or (6) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To:q WAR C 1560 Book Message 11 February, 1944. (2) 750 by 20 MM; 2,300 rounds 30 calibre expended in strafing from 50 to 400 feet. (3) Unstated number rounds 50 calibre expended in strafing from 100 feet. (4) 4 by 500 lb, 8 by 200 and 50 1b demolition 8 to 11 seconds delay bombs dropped from 50 feet, 2,700 rounds 50, 1,100 rounds 30 oalibre expended in straf- ing Pora Pora; 4 by 250 1b demolition 8 to 11 seconds delay bomba dropped from 10,000 feet Mal Mal. (5) 4 by 500 lb, 30 fragmentation bomba dropped from unknown altitude; 1,600 rounds 50 and 30 calibre expended in strafing. (6) 182 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 22,000 to 18,000 feet; moderate to intense, medium to heavy, inaccurate to accurate anti aircraft fire. (7) 57 rounds 37 MM out 700 rounds 50, 1,500 rounds 30 calibre expended in strafing from 50 feet. (8) 124 by 1,000 lb instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 16,000 to 11,000 feet; intense, heavy, some accurate anti airoraft fire. (9) 10 by 250 1b general purpose 11 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from treetop height; unknown number of rounds expended in strafing. ASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) CM-IN-7656 (11 Feb 44) OSD letter. May 4, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 211973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 6 To: WAR C 1560 11 February, 1944 Book Message (10) 80 by 500 lb general purpose bombs dropped from 13,000 to 6,000 feet; 35 by 500 1b bombs jettisoned; 9 by 500 1b bombs returned to base. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAP White House Field Marchal Dill Adm King Gen Vandegrift Log CM-IN-7656 (11 Feb 44) 13392 mos DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, See. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date MAY 2 1 1973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 / SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT fm CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 1528 Pt Shafter Unnumbered New Caledonia - New Delhi " Chungking # 10 February, 1944. To Chief of Staff War Department to CG Havaiian Dept to CG USAFISPA pass to COMBOPAC to AMMDEL to AMMISCA C 1528. Report of operations SOWESPAC Area period 13002/8 to 13007/9 signed MacArthur. Kavieng: Large unidentified vessel reported anchored night February 8; 4 auxiliary vessels 1 escort vessel sighted on northerly course 50 miles north west afternoon February 9. New Britain: Rabaul: 3 barges reported heading north from Rabaul night February 8. New Guines: Wewak: Fighter patrol reported 6 Oscars airborne, 5 fighters on Dagua; 11 barges attacked mouth of Sepik River, numberous others vest coast Muschu Island. Saidor: Local estimate of 400 Japanese retiring vestward along track 20 miles to south February 7 and 8. End of Part 1. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-6900 (10 Feb 44) E. O. 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 300 Somespac white Houre 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page 2, To: WAR C 1528 Ft Shafter Unnumbered New Caledonia , New Delhi if Chungking " 10 February, 1944. Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land: Cape Gloucester: Patrols reached Kokopo (2 miles east Cape Gauffre) and west bank Itni River, no con- tact. Rai Coast: 5th Division troops reached point mile south Yagomi, killed 27 enemy. Air. Operations February 8: (1) 18 P40's dive bombed and strafed Alexishafen jetty area and runway, destroyed 2 grounded fighters. February 9: (2) Single night RAAF Catalina heressed Kavieng airdrome, excellent results reported. (3) Reconnaissance B24's bombed buildings Karkar Island and small patrol craft off Hansa Bay. (4) Night Catalina strafed and sank 8 barges mouth of Sepik River, sank 1 damaged 2 Murik River, also bombed barges Nuschu Island. (5) 24 A-20's escorted by P40's bombed and CM-IN-6900 (10 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 211973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA. Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Eoh GHQ SWPA Page 3. To: WAR 0 1528 Book Message 10 February, 1944. heavily strafed Mindiri Plantation area (Pommern Bay) started fires, destroyed buts. Solomons, Naval Operations: PT's and LCI's shelled Muio River and Notupens Point areas (south vest coast), Mik Mik and Sale Island (north west coast Bougsinville), also strafed revetments Sipasei Islands (Choiseul). Air. Operations February 8, (6) 5 Avengers bombed Lekunai sirdrome predavn; other strikes cancelled due weather. (7) 3 patrolling P39's strafed Teop area, started large fire; aircraft operating with PT's bombed Notupena Point and Cape Lalahen (vest Buka), reconn- aissance B24's bombed Serime Plantation. Part 3. Weather. Frequent rain areas followed intensification of the Monsoon Season throughout the North Eastern area; broken to overcast middle and low cloud with showers prevailed through the southern part of the North Western area, to the north cloud was broken. CM-IN-6900 (10 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech OHQ SWPA Page 4. To: WAR C 1528 Book message 10 February, 1944. Air. (1) 18 by 500 1b instantaneous demolition bomba dropped; nil anti aircreft fire encountered. (2) 4 by 500 1b, 4 by 250 1b general purpose nose instantaneous bombs, 20 by 20 lb fragmentation bombs, 10 by 30 1b incendiary bombs dropped from 7,000 feet; in- tense accurate Bofors type anti aircraft fire to 7,500 feet, 6/8 searchlights converged immediately indicating rader control. (3) 2 by 1000 1b general purpose instantaneous dem- olition bombs dropped from 10,000 feet Kerker Island; 1 by 50C 1b demolition bomb dropped from 1,500 feet on patrol craft, moderate light inaccurate anti aircraft fire from vessels, (4) 3,60C rounds 50 and 30 calibre expended in straf- ing; slight light accurate anti aircraft fire encountered Murik River. (5) 94 by 500 lb (unstated delay) bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 38,900 by 50 calibre expended in strafing. Preliminary report: Forward elements Australian 5th Division met US Forces at Yogami (13 miles south east Saidor) 2330Z/9. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2, CG AAF Field Marshal Dill, Gen Vandegrift on/s Capt. Royal, USN, Adm King, White House LOG CM-IN-6900 (10 Feb 44) 1336z E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS DateMAY 21 1973 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA Date 11/13/21 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER pt didnot grabam not as - INCOMING MESSAGE was sure shouldre that w pm And (10ml) PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA 2 To: War C 1487 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No 6" 9th February, 1944. To Chief of Staff War Dept to CO Havaiian Depart- ment to CO USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC to AMMISCA to AMMDEL C 1487. SOWESPAC Area opens report pd. 13002/7-13002./8 agd Mao- Arthur. Caroline Islands: Ponape: SOUPAC reconnaissance aircraft photo- graphed 2 large cargo vessels 75 barged in harbour, 2 runways each 2,500 feet, nil aircraft February 7th. New Britain: Past Cape Beechey: Natives report 500 Japanese vicinity Rano plantation; 2 floatplanes sighted off coast morning February 8th. Past Cape Gloucester: 300 Japanese reported near Gilnit, Itne River area; many camp fires sighted Rottock Bay. New Guinea: Wewak: 12 barges sighted by reconnaissance aircraft near Blup Blup Island morning February 8. Hanse Bay: 20 barges reported near Awar Point. End part 1. Part 2. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-6158 (9 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, See. 3(E) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May " 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 3 as Sowespac 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 now SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C 1487 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 9th February, 1944 Northeastern area. Land. Lepsius Point: Westward advance passed Weber Point approximately 5 miles from American Forces old Yagomi (east Saidor). Air. Enemy action: 4 light raids Arawe, 1 Cape Gloucester, 1 Cape Cretin caused slight damage Feb- ruary 7 and 8th. Operations February 8th: (1). Two reconnaissance B24s bombed Momote sirfield, Admiralty group, starting fires. (2). RAAF sweeping Beaufighters 2 patrolling P39s strafed 3 barges, buildings and storehouses Talasea Ares. (3). 17 RAAF Beauforts with 15 RAAF P40s 10 Spitfires escort struck supply dumps starting fires Amgen River, east Gasmata; bombing graded excellent. (4). 4 sveeping P47s strafed buildings West Cape Croisilles; patrolling P39s strafed 3 barges, coastal buildings also attacked large tank off road Amele mission, Madang. CM-IN-6158 (9 Fob 44) DECLASSIFIED E 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (If OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 Pur DT UnA d SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page #3 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C 1487 Ft Shafter No # CONGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 9th February, 1944 (5). 11 A20s with P47 escort fired oil dumps, attacked Alexishafen strip and nearby installations. (6). 24 B25a covered by P47s and P38s heavily strafed Madang Area, dropped 27 tons bombs on supply dumps installations causing fires explosions; bombing graded excellent. Northwestern Area. Operations night February 8th: (7) 7 Dutch B25 attacked barracks, waterfront starting fires Toeal, Kai group. SOUPAC Forces. Land: Patrols north vest Torokina occupied Kuraio mission, contacted enemy. Naval: Allied gunboat bombarded Mosiga night February 6th; Pts attacked Mikmik Island, barge depot Buka night. Passage and schooner Queen Carola Harbour following CM-IN-6158 (9 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E.O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (II) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 BECBEA SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War c. 1407 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 9th February, 1944 Air. Operations February 7: (8) Reconnaissance B24 strafed barges build- ings destroyed 100 oil drums Satawan airfield, Nomoi group. (9). Two Dauntless bombed huts pillboxes Tavena River, Empress Augusta Bay. (10) 22 Avengers 59 Dauntless covered by 46 Corsaire 18 Warhawks 8 Hellcats found Vunakanau clouded, struck Tobera with 50 tons bombs hit anti aircraft positions damaged runvay; 6 bombs fell near 7 grounded aircraft; shot down 11 probably 8 others of 30/40 interceptors. (11). 17 B24s with 17 Corsairs 15 P38s escort dropped 79 tons bombs Vunakansu shot down 1 probably 7 others of 20 intercepting aircraft. (12) 5 Avengers against Rabaul shipping be- fore dawn next morning scored direct hit submarine, left cargo vessel smoking bombed Vunopope. Part 3. Weather. Considerable development of convectional cloud over Bismarck Sea and vitias Strait deteriorating at night; frontal zone caused broken to overcast cloud with frequent showers over Ararura Sea. CM-IN-6158 (9 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and B(D) or (8) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS MAY 21 1973 COPY Date No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page #5 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C 2487 Pt Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 9th February, 1944. Air. (1). 2 by 1,000 1b 1/10th second delay bombs dropped from 6,000 feet, 2 by 1,000 lb, 2 by 100 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8,500 feet. (2). 1100 rounds 20 MM, 5,000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from low level by Beaufighters, no details received P39s. (3). 18 by 500 lb, 62 by 250 1b general pur- pose instantaneous rod extension fuze, 16 by 500 1b madium capacity bombs dropped from 10,000 feet. (4) No details received. (5) 40 by 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demoli- tion bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 17,500 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; moderate light anti aircraft fire. (6) 109 by 500 1b demolition 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 200 feet end under; 55,200 rounds 50 calibre, 10,400 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. CM-IN-6158 (9 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page #6 From: Rear Echelon GHO SWPA To: War C 1487 Pt Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 9th February, 1944. (7). 27 by 500 1b demolition, 2 by 250 1b incendiary bombe dropped from 9,500 to 6,000 feet, 1 incendiary bomb dropped safe, 1 incendiary and 3 by 500 1b bombs jettisoned in see; slight medium socurate anti aircraft fire from Langgoqr. No Sig. ACTION: OPD - INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF Field Marshal Dill Gen Vandegrift Adm King White House CC/S, Capt. Royal, USN LOG CM-IN-6158 (9 Feb 44) 14482 amr DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 1, 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT NARA Date w/ aley SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. c 1431 Ft. Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 08 February 1944. To Chief of Staff War Dept, CG Havaiian Dept, CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL Nomo1 Islands. C 1431. Report of operations SOWESPAC area period 13002/6 to 13002/7 signed MacArthur. SOUPAC reconnaissance aircraft reports Satavan run- ways in good condition nil aircraft. New Britain: Rabaul: 40/60 fighters reported air- borne by SOUPAC aircraft morning February 6th. Wide Bay: Submarine sighted 40 miles south Cape Saint George morning February 7th. Vitu Islands: Enemy camps of 50 tents sighted Mundua and Unea Islands. Admiralty Islands: 2,500 ton cargo vessel reported Lorengau Harbour February 6th. Wevak: Fighter patrol morning February 7th reported nil aircraft Wevak Boram but Dagua. Dutoh Nev Guinea: Kaimana: photographs show new 3,600 foot runway under construction. End of part 1. CM-IN-5376 (8 Feb 44) DECLASSIFED E. O. 11652, Bec. 1(E) and 8(D) OSD letter, May , 1878 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 NUnA Date SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1431 Ft. Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # Nev Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 08 February 1944. Part 2. Northeastern area. Land. Cape Gloucester: Allied patrols near Cape Gauffre reported slight contact. Arave: Patrols to north west encountered opposition contact. near Itne River; to east reached Sigul River mouth without Lepsius Point: Advanced 3 miles west towards Ruinj1 Village number 2. Ramu Valley: Patrols from Fankiryo reached Amuson without contact. Air: Enemy action: light raids Cape Gloucester and Fin- schhafen night February 6th; P47 shot down lone fighter Cape Gloucester next morning; similar raid Arave afternoon. Operations night February 6th: (1) Single RAAF Catalina bombed Kavieng Panapai air- fields. (2) Reconnaissance B24 bombed Kavieng airfield supply dumps starting fires. E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11662 Sec. S(E) and 5(D) of (E) CM-IN-5376 (8 Feb 44) OSD letter, May 1 1972 Date MAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NI 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 3 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1431 COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Mr. No # Ft. Shafter Nr. No # 08 February 1944. Operations February 7th: (3) Reconnaissance B24 bombed Garua Harbour, Talasea; another B24 bombed buildings Cape Dampier. (4) 16 RAAF P40's bombed Amgen River dumps, east Gasmata. (5) Patrolling P39's attacked buildings Rein Bay Gasmata area. (6) Five RAAF Vengeances bombed mission buildings near Bogadjim. (7) Patrolling P39's strafed machine gun post Melanua Harbour, destroyed 1 barge damaged two others vicinity Cape Croisilles. Weather prevented strike against Kavieng; delete paragraph 2 of provious report. Northwestern Area. Air. Operations night February 7th: (8) 13 B24's attacked Ambon dumps barracks jetty area causing intermittent explosions large fires; another B24 caused explosions Lautem, Timor. SOUPAC forces. Air. Operations February 6th: DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-5376 (8 Feb 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. S(R) and 5(D) or (6) OSD letter, May L 1972 By DBS Date MAY 2.1.1973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 4 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1431 Ft. Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr.No # Nev Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 08 February 1944 (9) Eight Dauntless attacked pillboxes bridges Jaba River, Empress Augusta Bay; 2 Ventures 4 P39's attacked installations 8 barges Green Island. (10) 32 B25's covered by 39 Corsairs 24 Warhavks 9 Hellcats plus 19 B24's with 29 Coreairs 18 P38's dropped 124 tons bombs Lakunai, made runway unserviceable caused explosions large fires) shot down 13 probably 10 others of maximum 60 interceptors. (11) Night reconnaissance aircraft attacked 2 small vessels north Rabaul, bombed Cape Saint George, strafed - Teop Island and bombed Puriata River north Torokina. Part 3. Weather. Overcast over Bismarok Sea and most unsettled over Solomon Bea; many showers over Arafura Sea but mainly favourable further north. Air. (1) 4 500 1b, 4 250 1b general purpose instantaneous rod extension fuze, 20 20 1b fragmentation, 10 30 lb in- cendiary bombs dropped from 8,000 feet; moderate Bofors type, heavy accurate and intense light inaccurate anti air- craft fire. (2) 10 100 1b instantaneous demolition, 10 150 lb incendiary clusters, 40 20 1b fragmentation bombs, 6 beer DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-5376 (8 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 8(D) of (E) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 5 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War Nr. C 1431 Ft. Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 08 February 1944. bottles dropped from 14,400 feet. (3) 9 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bomba dropped from 8,000 feet Talasea, 8 from 5,000 feet Cape Dampier. (4) 15 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 2,500 to 12,000 feet; slight medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (5) No details received. (6) 10 500 1b demolition bombs dropped; 5,300 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (7) No details received. (8) 52 500 1b general purpose instantaneous demoli- tion bombs, 1 100 1b incendiary cluster dropped from 13,000 to 8,500 feet Ambon; 4 bombe dropped from 9,500 feet Lautem; moderate medium and heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire Ambon. ACTION: OPD No Sig INFORMATION: G-2, CG AAF, Gen Vandegrift, Field Marshal D111, CC/S (Capt Royal USN) White House, Adm King, Log. CM-IN-5376 (8 Feb 44) 14142 bj= E O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Bec. (E) and 6(D) of (B) OSD letter, May 1 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTMENT DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE I C1 CSOWESPAC (COM 7TH ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 2 FROM FLT) COMINCH PRIDRITY a PPPPPP 4 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION ROUTINE & 6 FCB 1944 DEFERRED 6 DATE 7 1259 8 TOR CODEROOM 9 ROSENTHAL CI.O 10 DECODED BY INFORMATION CIRCPAC 11 PARAPHRASED VOSBURGH CONSOPAC ROUTINE 12 BY DEFERRED 13 VIDIAN 11 ROUTED BY is UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL BE TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE AND as ADMINISTRATIVE. IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 17 060705 NCR 561 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTGOING DISPATENES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE REFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 23 MACARTHUR. COM 7TH FLT PASSES FOR CITICSOMESPAC F-01 24 ACTION TO CONTRICH, INFO CNO, CINCPAC, CO ISOPAC. F-02 21 26 F-05 27 24 CCHELON 6 LST 3DD DUE SUDEST FROM SAIDOR EARLY F-07 20 1-2 30 TOMORROW ORNING. F-2 31 32 ECHELON 4 LST 3DD DUE CLOUCESTER FROM SUDEST F-20 33 34 SAME TI IE. F-3 as F-30 36 37 F-31 38 F-32 39 40 F-33 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FX01 45 46 FX30 COMICH ACT 47 FX37 DECLASSIFIED 48 E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) may 49 50 OSD letter, May 1 MAY 1972 29°973 &1 By DBS Date 52 VCNO Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer la person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) OPNAY-NCR-15 060705 300 Somespac DECLASSIFIED O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 / 0 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Brisbane To: WAR Mr. AMNDEL C 1393 Ft Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 6 February, 1944 To Chief War Dept to CG Hawaiian Dept to CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC to AMMISCA to AMMDEL 01393. Report of operations SOWESPAC Area period 13002/5 to 1300Z/6 signed MacArthur. New Britain: Rabaul : photographs Lakunai before strike February 6 show 35 fighters 2 dive bombers concrete strip unserviceable; in harbour 3 submarines 1 medium 7 small cargo vessels 277 barges; 2 destroyers sighted heading north vest 35 miles north vest Cape Pomas midday February 6. Talasea: construction work reported on old strip February 5, twin engined aircraft sighted next day) 10 barges 1 lugger sighted off Garua Island. Gasmata: barge and 10 boats sighted near Anwek River. Lorengau: 30 barges estimated in area by attacking planes February 6. Wewak: 3 merchant vessels sighted in harbour 02182/6 End of part 1 Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land: forward elements 8th Brigade 1 reached Lepsius Point approximately 18 miles from Saidor eastern patrols. Air. Enemy action: two light raids Cape Gloucester night February 5, fighters dropped single bombs Arave and ship off Buna by day. CM-IN-4738 (7 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. (B) and 5(D) of (B) DECLASSIRED X OSD letter, May 21 1973 300 Somespre By.DBS COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIEIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Brisbano Page 2 To: WAR Nr. AMNDEL C 1393 Ft Shafter Mr. No # COMGENSOPAC Mr. No # New Delhi Mr. No # Chungking Hr. No # 6 February, 1944 Operations February 5: (1) RAAF Catalina carried out three hour harassing night attack Kavieng. (2) 12 A20's additional Hansa Bay attack sank lugger and barge destroyed buildings. Operations February 61 (3) Reconnaissance B24 bombed buildings Talasea, 3 B25's destroyed 3 barges Cape Dampier knooked out machine guns. (4) 3 B25's on patrol bombed 2 destroyers northwest Rabaul without result. (5) 25 B24's dropped 80 tons bombs Momote runway dispersal area. (6) 18 further B24's to strike Momote: due weather 12 bombed Gragat Island supply area (Madang), 6 others bombed plantation Erimahafen. (7) 25 A20's with P40 and 47 escort bombed and strafed forewhores Muschu Island, damaged many of 35 barges seen, sank 2 luggers left burning 2000 ton freighter, 2 sea trucks and escort vessel; air cover shot down 4 enemy fighters. CM-IN-4738 (7 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Bec. B(E) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May & MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Brisbane page 3 To: WAR Nr. AMMDEL C 1393 Ft. Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Rr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No# 6 February, 1944 (8) 3 B25's on west Bismarck Sea patrol blev up ammunitiin dump Bunabun, destroyed 4 barges; 4 P47's shot down enemy reconnaissance bomber in area. (9) 14 B25's swept coast Cape Gouvdon to Cape Croisilles, destroyed 2 bridges strafed villages barges trucks. (10) 9 P39's on sweep to Nubia damaged 5 barges. Northwestern area. Operation February 6: (11) 3 Dutch B25's bombed strafed villages Selaru Island. SOUPAC forces. Naval: PT and gunboats destroyed 3 more laden barges Mutupina Point, 3 destroyers bombarded Hahela Mission, east Buka passage night February 4; destroyers sank barge Nissan Island night February 5. Air. Enemy action: light raids Treasury and Torokina night February 5. Operations February 5. (12) 2 Dauntless Bombed Mavaraka area; 4 P39's damaged barge attacked Nova floatplane base, Buka. (13) 24 Avengers 44 Dauntless 24 Warhavks 39 Corsairs 8 Hellcats struck Lakunai, exploded fuel dump silenced anti aircraft guns left runvay unserviceable; destroyed 5 pro- bably 3 others of 20/40 interceptors; 2 Warhavks 1 Corsair 1 Avenger lost. CM-IN-4738 (7 Feb 44) E. 0. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Bec. 5(1) and 6(D) or (6) OSD Letter, May % 1972 Date By DBS 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Brisbane Page 4 To: WAR Nr. AMMDEL C 1393 Ft Shafter Nr. No # COMGENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 6 February, 1944 (14) 13 B24's with 19 Corsairs 15 P38's cover attacked same target destroyed 2 probably another of 25 enemy inter- ceptors Part 3. Weather: broken middle cloud with overcast Vitias Strait and vestern Bismarck Sea; unsettled central Solomon Sea; broken cloud northwestern area, frequent showers and storms eastern Arafura Sea. Air, (1) 4 X 500 lb, 4 x 250 1b general purpose instan- taneous rod extension fuze, 20 x 20 1b fragmentation, 10 x 30 1b incendiary bombe dropped from 8,000 feet; intense light, moderate to intense Bofors type and heavy mostly accurate anti aircraft fire. (2) 38 x 500 1b four to five seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 16,400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (3) 2 x 1,000 1b demolition bombs dropped from 10,500 feet Talasea; 4 x 1000 1b four to five seconds delay demoli- tion bombs dropped from 1500 feet; 6,200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing, intense medium accurate anti aircraft fire Cape Dampier. (4) 2 x 1000 1b four to five seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 10,000 feet; moderate heavy accurate anti aircraft fire. CM-IN-4738 (7 Feb 44) DECLASSFIED E. O. 11652 Sec. 1(B) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 MAY 1973 By DBS Date COPY NS.9 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 5 From: Brisbane To: WAR Nr AMMDEL C 1393 Ft Shafter Nr. No # COMOENSOPAC Nr. No # New Delhi Nr. No # Chungking Nr. No # 6 February 1944 (5) 161 % 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9000 feet. (6) 136 X 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombe dropped from 14,000 to 10,000 feet. (7) 71 X 500 1b, 35 x-300 1b, 22 x 250 1b four to five seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 29,600 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by A20's; 4200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by 16 P40's escorting; moderate to intense accurate and insocurate anti-aircraft fire of all calibres. (8) 2 X 1000 1b four to five seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 9000 feet; 1300 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; intense medium and heavy socurate anti-aircraft fire Bunabun; no details P47's. (9) 65 x 500 1b eight to eleven seconds delay de- molition bombs dropped from 200 feet and under; 29,700 rounds 50, 6900 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; moderate medium accurate, slight heavy and light anti aircraft fire. (10) No details received. (11) 8 x 500 1b medium capacity bombs dropped on targets, 4 accidentally in sea. No Sig. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2, CG AAF, Field Marshal D111, Gen Vandegrift, CCS (Capt Royal, USN), Adm King, White House, Log CM-IN-4738 (7 Feb 44) 1456z mos E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. s(E) and 5(D) of (H) OSD letter, May MAY 1972 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 12356 Sea SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR Nr. C-1358 Ft Shafter Unnumbered COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered New Delhi Unnumbered Chungking Unnumbered 06 February 1944 To Chief of Staff War Dept to OG Ravaiian Dept to CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC to AMMISCA to AMMDEL 0 1358. Operations report SOWESPAC area period 13002/4 to 1300Z/5. New Guinea: Aitape: Photographs January 24th show 3 fighters on Tedji strip. Wevak: Considerable number camouflaged barges esti- mated 150 reported along shores Muschu and Kairiru Islands; Wewak and Boram strips serviceable 04352/4. Lansa Bay: 2 sea trucks sighted in area by night reconnaissance airoraft February 4. Bogadjim: Trucks and camouflaged supply dumps re- reported dispersed in Erima plantation. End of part 1. Part 2. Northeastern area. Land. Ramu valley: Enemy counter attack Mataloi village number 2 repulsed, isolated Allied platoons regained contact; Allied patrols reported nil contact north east from Kankiryo towards Amuson and northwest forward of Paipa village CM-IN-4420 (6 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFED 11652, Sec. E and 5(D) of (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 Data MAY1/2 1873 300 Sowespac By DBS COPY No. 59 THE WAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASCIFIED SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2 To: Addressees continued 06 February 1944 number one. Saidxr: Artillery engaged enemy troops 10 miles west by south. Air. Enemy action. Gloucerter Cape Argueseter: Single Zeke attacked Allied Vessel morning February 5th. Operations February 4th: (1) Night Catalinas attacked beached sea truck Cape Matanalem, bombed another nearing Hansa Bay. (2) Single RAAF Catalina bombed Kavieng revetments at night. (3) 26 additional B24'- with P47's 25 RAAP plus. other P406s escort against Dagua But airfields. (4) 4 sweeping P47's shot down Helen landing Boram afternoon. (5) 23 additional A20'splus P47's escort attacked Marienberg installations. (6) Night B24 attacked sea truck near Hensa Bay. (7) 2 patrolling P39's exploded barge Gogol river, strafed buildings supply vessel Alexishafen. Operations February 5tb: CM-IN-4420 (6 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 1972 5(D) of (B) OSD letter, May , MAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echolon GHQ SWPA Page 3 To: Addressees continued 06 February 1944 (8) 3 reconnaissance B25's scored near misses sea truck on reef near Tingwon Island. (9) 47 B24's with P38's escort failed reach Kavieng, struck Hoskins airfield; some bombs dropped Lindenhafen plantation, east Gasmata. (10) 3 reconnaissance B25's sank gun boat, small freighter laden with ammunition and 5 barges, set fuel dump ablaze, damaged 2 floatplanes strafed personnel anti air- craft positions. (11) 39 325's 24 A20's attacked Hansa Bay installat- ions, sank sea truck 3 barges exploded fuel dumps destroyed grounded bomber started many fires; 12 other A20's returned due weather. (12) 2 patrolling P39's strafed supply store near Atemble, Ramu valley. Northwestern area. Air. Operations right February 4th: (13) 6 B24's hit Liang airfield, Amboina, starting fires. (14) 5 other B24's struck Namlea airfield, Boeroe island, starting fires visible 20 minutes from target. Operations February 5. CM-IN-4420 (6 Feb 44) E. o. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sen. (E) and 5(D) of (B) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 MAY 211973 Data By DBS COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4 To: Addressees continued 06 February 1944 (15) 6 RAAF Beaufighters harassed Betano area, Timor, strafing personnel and buildings. (16) 3 B24's started large fires jetty area Kaimana, Dutch New Guinea. SOUPAC forces. Naval: PT boats destroyed 1 of 4 barges south Mutupina Point night February 4th. Air. Enemy action: Light raids causing elight damage Torokina and Treasury same night; 1 Betty claimed by anti aircraft fire. Operations February 4th: (17) 6 Dauntless bombed mission buildings, destroyed bridges Mobiai river, south west Bougainville; 6 other Daunt- less started fires Sarime plantation, north vest coast. (18) Reconnaissance B24 bombed Kapingamprangi sea- plane base. (19) 25 B25's 45 fighters escort bombed Tobera air- field, starting fires; nil interception. (20) 18 B24's 22 Corsaire 12 P38's struck Vunakanau with 54 tons bombs, destroyed 1 grounded Betty, shot down 4 of 20/30 interceptors; 2 Corsairs lost. CM-IN-4420 (6 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. (E) and 1972 5(D) of (B) DECLASSIFIED OSD letter, May 1 DatMAY 21.1973 By DBS COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: Addressees continued 06 February 1944 Part 3. Weather. Generally favourable throughout area except for usual evening deterioration; northwestern area decreased monsoonal activity with scattered showers but severe local storms over northern Australian coastal area. Air. (1) No details bombs, 2200 rounds 30 and 50 calibre fires. (2) No details received. (3) 111 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs drop- ped from 18,000 feet Dagua; slight to moderate medium and heavy insccurate anti aircraft fire I 70 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 17,200 feet but; moderate medium and heavy inaccurate anti airoraft fire. (4) No details received. (5) 2 500 lb, 33 300 1b, 39 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition, 36 parachute fragmentation bombs dropped from minimum altitude; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (6) 1 1000 1b, 1 100 lb, 4 500 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (7) No details received. CM-IN-4420 (6 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May & 1972 MAY 2.1973 Date By DBS COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 6 To: Addressees continued 06 February 1944 (8) 5 1000 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 100 feet. (9) 259 1000 1b instantaneous, 36 1000 1b one second delay, 36 1000 1b .025 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 15,900 to12,400 feet Cape Hoskins; 16 1000 1b general purpose instantaneous demolition bombs drop- ped from 10,000 feet Lindenhafen, 8 salvoed; elight to moderate medium accurate and insccurate anti aircraft fire Cape Hoskins, intense medium inaccurate Lindenhafen. (10) 6 1000 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped; 6900 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; intense light accurate anti aircraft fire. (11) 85 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs droppedfrom minimum altitude; 25,900 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by A20's; 123 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay, 43 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 5 bombs jettisoned; 51,600 rounds 50, 12,800 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; alight to intense light and heavy anti aircraft fire both accurate and inaccurate. (12) No details received. (13) 74 120 1b fragmentation clusters, 8 500 1b incendiary bombs dropped from 10,000 to 8000 feet, 1 120 1b fragmentation cluster hung up and returned (14) 45 120 1b fragmentation, 29 100 1b incendiary clusters dropped from 10,000 to 8000 feet. (15) 1800 rounds 20 MM, 2800 rounds 30 calibre fired CM-IN-4420 (6 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. 3(B) and 5(D) of (E) OSD letter, May & 19MAY 21 1973 Date By DBS COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon OHQ 3WPA Page 7 To: Addressees continued 06 February 1944 in strafing from 50 feet. (16) 12 500 D instantaneous demolition bombs drop- ped from 14,000 feet, & jettisoned in sea; moderate heavy accurate anti aircraft fire. No Sig e Being Serviced. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAF CC/S (Capt. Royal, USN) Admiral King General Vendegrift Field Marshal Dill White House Log CM-IN-4420 (6 Feb 44) 23222 It E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 Date, MAY 21 1073 By DBS 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR 0-1307 Ft Shafter Unnumbered COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered Nev Delhi Unnumbered Chungking Unnumbered 05 February 1944 Signed MacArthur from OHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department CG Hawsiian Department 00 USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMDEL AMMISCA C 1307. Operations report SOUVESPAC area period 1300Z/3 to 13002/4. Mussau Island: 2 cargo vessels 2 destroyers sighted 15 misles east heading south morning February 3. New Hanover: 2 large cargo vessels 2 destroyers reported by reconnaissance plane 15 miles north afternoon February 3. New Britain: Submarine reported on northerly course 60 miles north Garove Island midday February 4. New Guinea: Hansa Bay: Small freighter sighted heading down coast noon February 4. Alexishafen: 3 camouflaged fighters sighted north of number 2 strip February 4. End of part 1. Part 2. E O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Bec. S(E) and 6(D) or (B) North eastern area. OSD letter. May & 1972 MAY 21197 By DBS Date Land. Ramu Valley: Enemy counter attacked near CM-IN-3502 (5 Feb 44) 1702Z ass e hiti House 59 300 Sowespace COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASCIFIED SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2 To: Addressees continued 05 February 1944 Matalio village number 2 isolating 2 Allied platoons. Huon Peninsula: 8th Brigade troops crossed Sari river 8 miles vest Reiss Point. Air. Enemy action: Light raid Arave February 4, nil damage. Operations: (1) 23 RAAF P-40's additional previous report attacked Biliau Tereri villages, west Fgidor, February 1, destroyed many huts set others afire. (2) Single RAF Catalina started fires Kaveing revetments, also bombed Hoskins airfield at night. Operations February 3: (3) 12 additional B-24's against Boram, 23 additional B25's against Dagua; P-38's shot down 6 enemy bombers, P-47's and 40's got one additional fighter. (4) Catalina attacked vest bound convoy near Sepik river mouth at night. (5) 2 patrolling P-39's strafed motor transports near Bogadjim. Operations February 4: (6) 16 RAAF P-40's bombed Amgen river dumps, east Gasmata, starting fires. CM-IN-3502 (5 Feb 44) 1702Z 808 E. O. 11652 Ben- s(1) and 1972 B(D) of (B) DECLASSIPED OSD letter, May Data 3 MAY 2.1.1973 By DBS 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NI R 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3 To: Addressees continued 05 February 1944 (7) 31 B-24's with P-47's P-40's excort attacked But, Dagua airfields set fuel dumps ablase, bombs fell amongst 30 grounded aircraft Dagua. (2, 23 A-20's With P-47's escort badly damaged Marienberg barge alipway destroyed buildings started many fires. (9) 42 B-25's covered by P-38's bombed heavily strafed bivouac supply areas, hit 3 grounded aircraft Alexishafen. (10) 29 B-25's struck Madang personnel area supply dumps starting fires. (11) 16 P-39's bombed strafed Atemble, Ramu valley, and nearby villages starting fires. North western area. Air. Operations February 4: (12) 2 Dutch B-25's bombed Laha airfield, Ambon, starting fires at night. SOUPAC forces. Naval: 3 destroyers bombarded Sarime plantation, north vest Bougainville, early February 4. Air. Enemy action: 6 enemy bombers plus float planes attacked Allied destroyers vest Buka previous night; one aircraft shot down. Operations February 3: (13) Single Venture started fires Faisi at night. CM-IN-3502 (5 Feb 44) 1702Z aes E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Bec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May % 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4 To: Addressees continued 05 February 1944 (14) 34 Dauntless 23 Avengers 39 Corsairs 11 War- havks 8 Hellcats found Rabaul shipping clouded, struck Tobera airfield exploded one grounded aircraft started fires reventments, shot down 7 probably 4 others of 15 in- terceptors; 3 Corsairs missing. (15) 15 B-24's 17 Corsairs 14 P-38's bombed Lakunai revetments starting fires, shot down 6 probably 2 others of 25/30 enemy fighters. (16) Reconnaissance B-24 damaged 1 of 3 intercepting Zeros north New Hanover February 3. End of part 2. Part 3. Weather. Mainly scattered to broken cloud, overcast over Vitiax Strait; favourable weather north western area except for local night showers. Air. (1) 16 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs drop- ped from 3500 to 1400 feet; 7000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from minimum altitude. (2) 3 500 1b, 4 250 1b general purpose, 2 30 1b in- cendiary, 5 20 1b fragmentation bombs dropped from 8000 feet Kavieng; 1 500 1b general purpose, 3 30 1b incendiary, 15 20 lb fragmentation bomba dropped Cape Hoskins; intense bofors and light accurate anti aircraft fire Kavieng. (3) 84 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs drop- ped from 21,000 feet Boram, intense heavy accurate anti CM-IN-3502 (5 Feb 44) 17022 aes E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 MAY 21.1973 By DBS Date COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 MI D 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: Addressees continued 05 February 1944 aircraft fire; 220 100 1b parachute domolition 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs, 218 clusters of 3 23 1b parachute fragmentation bombs dropped Dagua from 150 feet and under; 37,700 rounds 50, 8,300 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; 910 rounds 20 MM 6600 rounds 50 calibre fired in combat by 16 P-38's; slight to intense inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. (4) No details received. (5) No details received. (6) 16 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 2000. (7) 4 2000 1b, 126 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped but from 17,500 to 16,000 feet; moderate medium and havey accurate to inaccurate anti aircraft fire; 81 1000 1b instananeous demolition bombs dropped from 19,000 feet Dagua; moderate to intense medium and heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (8) 42 500 1b, 33 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay de- molition bombs reported dropped from minimum altitude by 12 aircraft, 35 500 1b, 2 250 1b by other 11 aircraft; 24,200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (9) 173 500 lb 8 to 11 seconds delay, 4 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 48,100 rounds 50, 16,900 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light to heavy mostly inaccurate anti aircraft fire. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-3502 (5 Feb 44) 17022 aes E. O. 11652, Sec. 1(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS D.MAY 211973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 6 To: Addressees continued 05 February 1944 (10) 142 500 lb 8 to 11 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 200 feet and under; 62,700 rounds 50, 6900. rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light insocurate anti air- craft fire. (11) 12 500 1b bombs dropped, 115 rounds 37 MM, 3200 rounds altitude. 30, 5000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from minimum (12) 20 clusters fragmentation, 4 clusters incendiary bombs dropped from 9000 feet, 6 clusters fragmentation bombs jettisoned; slight heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire. No Sig Being Serviced. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF Field Marchal Dill Gen Vandegrift CC/S Capt Royal USN Adm King WHITE HOUSE LOG CM-IN-3502 (5 Feb 44) 17022 es DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(B) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 1, 1972 By DBS Date, MAY 21 1973 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By DT NARA Data w/ 1 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Roar Ech OHQ SWPA To: WAR Nr. C 1276 Ft Shafter Unnumbered COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered Nev Delhi Unnumbered Chungking Unhumbered 04 February 1944 Signed MscArthur from GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department CG Hawaiian Department 00 USAFISPA pass COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMNDEL C 1276. Reports of operations SOWESPAC area period 13002/2 to. 1300Z/3 signed MacArthur. New Hanover: Medium freighter transport with 2 destroyers reported south vest Cape Matanalem on vesterly course by attacking aircraft night February 2nd; emall vessel sighted in area heading south midday following day. Nov Britain: I Submarine attacked south east Cape Beechey midday February 2nd. New Guinea: Wewak: Small freighter transport 5 sea trucks sighted off Muschu Island, probable destroyer Kaircru Island morning February 3rd. Hensa Bay: Two sea trucks sighted midday February 3rd. CM-IN-2915 (4 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIRED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (if) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 Date MAY 21 1073 By DBS 300 Sawespac COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 33 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page 2 To: All addressees continued 04 February 1944 Dutch Nev Guinea: Sorong: Photographs new Sermate strip show 4000 foot clearing, light bomber revetments under construction. Merauke: Enemy reconnaissance aircraft reported to north vest morning February 3rd. End of part 1. Part 2. Northeastern area. Air. Enemy action: Single fighter attacked Allied vessel south Langemak Bay February 3rd. Operations February 3rd: (1) 3 reconnaissance B25's bombed Hyane harbour jetty, Momote airfield, strafed destroyed small boat. (2) 1 RAAF Catalina bombed Kavieng airfield, started fires before davn. (3) 3 Catalinas set 5000 ton merchant vessel afire caused large explosion with direct hits south vest Cape Matanalem before dawn; 3 reconnaissance B25's scored 2 direct hits strafed same vessel during morning. (4) Patrolling P39's strafed 2 camouflaged boats Willaumex Peninsula, damaged fuel laden barge Rein Bay, strafed huts along coast. CM-IN-2915 (4 Feb 44) E- O. DECLASSIRED 11652 Bec. 3(B) and B(D) or (5) OSD Letter, May 1, 1978 MAY 211973 By DBS Date, COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN .59 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page #3 To: All addressees continued mej 04 February 1944 (5) 25 RAAF Beauforts with 31 RAAF Spitfires and P40's cover started fires with over 21 tons bombs Amgen River supply bivouse areas east Oasmata; bombing rated excellent. covection (6) Preliminary report states 40 B24's with P47's escort struck Vevak-Boram airfields destroyed 12 grounded aircraft; 39 B25's followed against Dagua Bay airfields destroyed approximately 60 grounded aircraft; Many explosions fires started all airfields, anti-air- craft positions silenced; Allied Fighters shot down 8 probably another of about 40 interceptors after bombing run on Wewak; 4 other B24's scored direct hits on anti- aircraft positions Hansa Bay, bombed Nobanob Bogadjim villages and Beliau Island; 2 others bombed Lindenhafen plantation east Gasmata; 7 additional B25's 2 B24's returned due mechanical trouble. (7) 11 A20's 16 P47's escort bombed strafed Hansa Bay installations starting fires, attacked coastal targets to Uligan Harbour. (8) 12 A20's destroyed buildings heavily strafed Nobanob mission and village, north vest Madang. (9) Delayed report January 30th; 2 patrolling P39's destroyed 2 grounded fighters Alexishafen, strafed huts, set 3 fuel trucks afire. Northwestern Area: Air: Operations February 21 E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (B) CM-IN-2915 (4 Feb 44) OSD letter. May 1 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page #4 To: All addressees continued 04 February 1944 (10) 2 RAAF Catalinas started large fires Keaukva village Timika airfield at night. SOUPAC Forces: Strikes February 2 cancelled due weather. Part 3. Weather: Cloud well broken over sea areas, strong winds and lov cloud southeastern Solomon Sea, conditions improv- ing in northwestern area. Air: (1) 1 1000 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 5000 feet Momote, 1 dropped Huane Harbour; 400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (2) 6 250 lb, 2 500 1b general purpose instantane- ous rod extension fuze, 11 20 1b fragmentation, 10 30 1b incendiary bombs dropped from 10,000 to 6,000 feet; slight Bofors, intense light inaccurate anti-aircraft fire. (3) 2 1000 1b, 2 500 1b general purpose bombs drop- ped by Catalinas; 3 1000 lb, 3 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 300 feet by B25's 2900 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (4) No details received. (5) 51 500 1b, 90 250 1b general purpose instantan- CM-IN-2915 (4 Feb 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. s(E) and B(D) e (E) OSD letter, May MEY MAT 59 21 1973 Date By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Ech GHQ SWPA Page #5 To: All addressees continued. 04 February 1944 eous rod extension fuze bombs dropped from 10,000 feet; slight heavy insccurate anti-aircraft fire from vicinity Lindenhafen and Ossmata. (6) 10 2000 lb, 268 1000 1b instantaneous demo- lition bombs dropped Wevak/Boram from 20,700 to 18,400 feet; 108 100 1b parachute demolition, 535 clusters of 323 1b parachute fragmentation bombs dropped Bay/Dagua from 350 feet and under; 5 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9,000 feet Hansa Bay, 7 from 10,000 feet Bogadjim, 8 from 12,000 feet Nororob, 8 Bepiau, 8 Linden- hafen, 8 jettisoned in sea Lindenhafen; 55,600 rounds 50, 11,800 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; moderate to intense mostly accurate anti-aircraft fire of all cali- bres. (7) 27 300 lb, 1 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demol- ition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 10,100 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; moderate to intense light and heavy accurate and insccurate anti-aircraft fire. (8) 37 500 1b, 2 250 1b demolition 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 17,700 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (9) No details received. (10) 4 500 lb, 12 250 1b general purpose instantan- eous, 60 20 lb fragmentation, 60 30 1b incendiary bombs dropped from 9000 feet; 700 rounds 50, 300 rounds 30 cali- bres fired in strafing from 300 feet. ACTION: OPD No Sig. INFORMATION: G-2, CG AAF, Adm King, Gen Vandergift, 00/S (Capt Royal USN), Sir John Dill, White House, LOG E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. S(E) and 6(D) or (E) CM-IN-2915 (4 Feb 44) 21472 mlc OSD letter, May 1, 1978 Date MAY 1973 By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: GHQ Southvest Pacific To: Ft. Shafter Unnumbered COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered New Delhi Unnumbered Chungking Unnumbered WAR o 1243 3rd February 1944 Signed MacArthur from GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department CG Haviian Department 00 USAFISPA pass to COMORN- SOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL G 1243 New HAT over: Operations report SOWESPAO Area. 1300%/1 and 13002/2 signed MocArthur. Part 1. 1 destroyer and small merchant vessel sigh- ted heading East 55 miles southwest morning February 2nd. New Britain: Ruin Bay: Well used track inland from Ketengi Anchorage. Arawe: Enemy reported withdrawn north of strip. New Guinea: Ramu River Area: 18 brigade patrols report enemy evacuated positions 3 miles down Mintjim River from Kankiryo. Saidor: Enemy strength vicinity Cape Iris estimated 800. Dutch New Guinea: Sorong: 3 sea trucks 30 barges reported in area, 2 bombers on Jefman Strip. End of Part 1. Part 2, Northeastern Area. Land. Nev Britain: Allied casualties to February 1 total 267 killed 841 wounded Cape Gloucester, 115 killed 237 vounded Arave. DECLASSIRED CM-IN-1895 (3 Feb 44) E.O. 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) or (B) OSD letter, May L 1972 By DBS Data MAY 21 1973 60 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2 From: GHR Southwest Pacific Tor Ft. Shafter Unnumbered COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered New Delhi Unmumbered Ohunglting Unnumbered WAR 0 1243 Saidor casualties total 14 killed, 74 vounded. Ramu Valley: Last enemy defences Kankiryr Saddle Area occupied, patrols advanced 3 miles down Mintjim River found elaborate installations abandoned. Patrols of 15th Brigade West by North Daumoina near Mataloi Village number 1. Air: Enemy action: Light raid Areve, no damage Light February 1. Operations February 1st: (1) 2 P-39's sank troop laden barge, strafed 2 other barges Rein Bay. (2) 23 P-40's set many huts afire caused explosion Biliau Teteri Villages, West Saidor, Operations February 2nd: (3) 3 patrolling B-25's attacked submarine South west Cape Cunningham, strafed 3 barges along coast. (4) 12 B-25's with 30 P-38's escort swept Cape Gauffre to Rein Bay, bombed strafed barges coastal installations Anu Iboki Plantation. (5) 23 B-24's escorted by 11 P-47's dropped 77 tons DEGLASSIFIED CM-IN-1895 (3 Feb 44) R. O. 11652, Bec. 3(E) and 8(D) or (B) OSD letter, May . 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 60 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 3 From: GHQ Southwest Pacific To: Ft. Shafter Unnumbered COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered New Delhi Unnumbered Chungking Unnumbered WAR C 1243 bombs Alexishafen Supply Dumps causing explosions large fires. (6) 48 A20's destroyed many buildings heavily stra- fed Nobanob/Amele Villages, Madang. (7) 2 P-39's silenced machine gun, damaged 3 barges, strafed 7 motor transport left 3 burning Bogadjim Area. Northwestern Area. Air. Operations February 2nd: (8) 12 B-24's bombed waterfront supply dumps caus- ing fires Sorong, Dutch Nev Guinea. SOUPAC Forces. Naval: Allied Destroyers shelled shore batteries East Busa Passage, bombarded Choiseul Bay installations February let; other destroyers attacked sub- marine southvest Bukal, single gunboat bombarded Mibo River positions, South Bougainville, at night. Air. Operations February 1st: (9) Reconnaissance B-24 bombed Kapingamarangi. Part 3. Weather. Unsettled with heavy showers over Bismarck Bes; usual general deterioration at night; northwestern area mainly favourable except for broken to overcast cloud with frequent showers over Arnhem land, Timor end Arafura Seas. Air: DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-1895 (3 Feb 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May L 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 60 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 4 From: GHQ Southwest Pacific Tot Ft. Shafter Unnumbered COMGENSOPAC Unnumbered New Delhi Unnumbered Chungking Unnumbered WAR 0 1243 (1) No details received. (2) 16 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs drop- ped from 3,500 feet to 1,500 feet; 7,000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; light anti-aircraft fire Biliau. (3) 1 1,000 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bomb dropped from 1,000 feet; 4,200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing barges. (4) 49 300 1b, 35 250 and 4 to 5 seconds delay demo- lition bombs dropped from 150 to 50 feet; 31,900 rounds 50, 10,700 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light in- scourate antiaircraft fire. (5) 88 1,000 1b, 132 500 1b instantaneous demoli- tion bombs dropped from 9,000 feet; nil antiaircraft fire. (6) 141 500 lb, 51 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demo- lition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 70,200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (7) No details received. (8) 66 300 1b instantaneous demolition bombs drop- ped from 14,000 feet, 6 jettisoned in sea; moderate medium inaccurate, heavy accurate anti aircraft fire. ACTION: OPD No Sig INFORMATION: G-2, CG AAF, Adm. King,CC/S (Capt. Royal USN) Fld. Marshal Dill, General Vandegrift, White House Log DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-1895 (3 Feb 44) 1424Z med E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(R) and 5(D) or (6) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAT 21 BC COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 33 or Sec. 3.4 CONFIDENTIAL WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE for and PRIORITY POSTEPROP From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon To: War C1213 Fort Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi N° # Chungking No # 2 February 1944 Operations report SOUWESPAC area period 1300 2/31 to 1300 z/1 signed MacArthur. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department Commanding General Hawaiian Department Com- manding General USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMDEL AMMISCA C1213. Mussau Island: 3 destroyers 2 small freighters sight- ed in bad visibility by reconncissance aircraft midday Feb- ruary 1. New Britain: Rabaul: photographs February 1 show 28 medium bombers 14 dive bombers 5 fighters Vunakanau, 55 figh- ters, 1 medium bomber Tobera. Borgen Bay: Native reports indicate enemy vithdraw- ing east towards Cape Gauffre, New Guinea. Hollandia: photographs reported to show increase of 22 bombers 3 fighters since January 27, some on New Settani and Cyclops strips. Vanimo: 2 merchant vessels reported in Daumtings Bay night January 31 additional to vessel claimed sunk. Madang: small cargo vessel sighted off Beliau Island, CM-IN-1129 (2 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) OSD letter, May L 1972 By DBS Date MAKE COPY No White L1973 300 Sowespac COMMISSIONER 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED CONFIDENTIAL WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -2- From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon To: War C1213 Addressees complete on Page 1 2 February 1944 Dutch New Guinea: Merauke: Unidentified aircraft rep- orted in area midday February 1, End of Part 1. Part 2, North Eastern Area. Land, Arave: Enemy party re- ported in prepared positions airfield January 31, Sio: Land forces crossed Timbe river advanced 2 miles south west Reiss Point. Air. Enemy action: two enemy aircraft caused slight casualties Arave morning February 1. Operations January 31: (i) Reconnaissance B24 made single run, refrained further action against vessel north vest Cape Pomas when Red Cross lights observed before dawn. (2) B24 attacked small vessel north west Aitape be- fore dawn. Operations February 1: (3) 59 B24's to strike Lorengau Momote; turned back due weather. (4) 3 reconnaissance B25's attacked 5 ship convoy off Mussau Island, (5) Reconnaissance B25 rendered barges unserviceable south Jacquinot Bay, straffed anti aircraft position. CM-IN-1129 (2 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(R) and 8(D) or (B) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN CONFIDENTIAL WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -3- From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon To: War C1213 Addressees complete on Page 1 2 February 1944 (6) 2 B24's scored direct hits medium merchant vessel which exploded caught fire, claimed sunk off Vanimo harbour before dawn. (7) 8 P47's on fighter sweep Hansa Bay straffed vil- lage, gun positions. (8) 4 patrolling P39's straffed huta personnel along Rai coast, motor transport Bogadjim. SOUPAC forces. Land: Allied artillery barrage preceded infantry assault with tank support against stiff resistance east Torokina river, des- troyed 20 pillboxes killed 80 enemy, consolidated objectives January 30; allied losses 19 killed 23 vounded, Raiding party landed Nissan Island night January 30, damaged 2 sup- ply laden barges, withdrew following night. Air. operations January 31: (9) 17 B24's escorted by 16 P38's 4 Corsairs bombed Tobera runway revetments started fires; nil interception. (10) 24 dauntless 18 Avengers 46 Fighters to strike Rabaul shipping; weather obscured target, struck Tobera in- stead destroyed 7 grounded aircraft damaged 15 others; shot down 8 probably 4 others of 20/30 interceptors; 2 Corsairs 2 Dauntless lost. End of Part 2. Part 3. Weather. Broken to overcast middle cloud general throughout area and unsettled with frequent rain squalls over Bismarck Sea Manu Island Vitiaz dampier streits; north vestern area conditions mainly favourable except for scattered CM-IN-1129 (2 Feb 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(B) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1 1972 By DBS Date MAY 1973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 12356 Sec 3.4 CONFIDENTIAL WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -4- From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon To: War C1213 Addressees complete on Page 1 2 February 1944 showers and storms over Arnhem Land and deteriorating at night, Air. (1) 1 1000 lb, 2 50C lb on 1/10 second delay bombs dropped from 2000 feet. (2) 1 1000 lb, 2 500 1b 1/10 second delay demolition bombs dropped from 1000 feet. (4) 2 1000 1b, 2 500 1b bombs dropped from 500 to 3000 feet; 20C rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing: moderate light and heavy accurate anti aircraft fire. (5) 1000 rounds 50 calibre fired in straffing from minimum altitude, (6) 4 10C lb, 8 500 1b 1/10 second delay demolition bombs dropped from 150C feet; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (7) 3200 rounds 50 calibre fired in straffing. (8) No details received. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2, CGAAF, Gen Vandegrift, White House, CCS Capt Royal USN, Adm King, Sir John Dill, Log CM-IN-1129 (2 Feb 4%) 1338z pp DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or ($) OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 c COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE (coll 7TH FLT) CINCSOMESPAC ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE - FROM COMICH 2 PRPAIP a RELEASED BY FOR ACTION 4 ROUTINE 31 JAN 1944 5 DATE DEFERRED 6 311224 7 TOR CODEROOM OND 8 YORK PPPPP 9 CINCPAC DECODED BY PRIORITY 10 PARKER INFORMATION COM 3RD FLT 11 PARAPHRASED ROUTINE BY 12 HILL DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY 14 VALIDE OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL se TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRESEDENCE AMD 43 ADMINISTRATIVE 15 LIMITED DISTRIBUTION IF OPERATIONAL 310651 16 NCR 5285 CHECK BELOW 17 18 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: 19 DATE TIME GCT 20 OR OUTGOING DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAN SPACE BDORE BEROWNING TEXT ACTION 21 COM 7TH FLT-SENDS FOR-CINCSOMESPAC F-0 22 ACT CONTRICH: INFO CNO, CINCPAC, 23 F-01 COM 3RD FLT: FROM MACARTHUR 24 F-02 25 26 F-05 27 F-07 29 29 F-1 PT'S NEGATIVE RESULTS NIGHT 30-31. SAIDOR ECHELON 6 30 F-2 31 LST'S 3 DD'S RETURNED SUDEST. CLOUCESTER ECHELON 4 22 F-20 33 LST'S 3 DD'S EUROUTE TO ARRIVE TOMORROW. 4 LST'S F-3 34 35 F-30 3 DD'S RETURNED CAPE CRETIN FROM CLOUCESTER. ARAME 36 F-31 37 ECHELON AERIVED. BLACK CATS 33 BED MISSED SHALL 38 F-32 20 TRANSPORT HEAR 12-528 AND 142-00. F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FX01 $ 12 FX30 45 COMICH ACT 47 FX37 $ DECLASSIFIED FI40 49 16. 20G OP-C1 SHOW OP-20 E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) (II) 50 1972 IGwOO OSD letter, May 4 51 Date, MAY 52 By DBS 373 Make original only. Deliver to Code Rqam Watch Officer In person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) OPNAY-NCH-15 310651 300 Sowespac DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER for INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY Post From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War o 1141 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 31 January, 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, Commanding General Havaiian Department, Commanding General USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMISCA, AMMDEL, C 1141. Report of operations SOWESPAC Area period 1300Z/29 to 13002/30 signed MacArthur. Buka: Enemy reported leaving stores Teopasino moving south January 24. New Britain: Rabaul: Photographs January 29 at time of attack show 30 medium bombers 7 dive bombers 5 fight- ers Vunakanau, 15 dive bombers 9 fighters Lakunai; 3 destroy- ers sighted off Keravat midday January 30. Arave: Patrol reports indicate nil enemy from strip to Sauren on Marjie Bay. Manus Island: 18 barges sighted vicinity Lorengau morning January 29, Bismarck Sea: 2 vessels indicated on Northerly course 75 miles north vest Garove Island early morning Jan- uary 30. New Guinea: Hollandia/Hansa Bay: 1 large 1 medium 4 small vessels reported off coast night January 29; 2 sea CM-IN-20831 (31 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E O. 11652 Sec. S(E) and 6(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Data MAY 21 1973 300 Sowespac COPY No. 6 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASSIFIED 0 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon attQ SWPA To: War Page 2 o 1141 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC - No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 31 January, 1944 trucks sighted Hansa Bay morning January 30. Enc of part 1. Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land. Sio Area: Land forces approaching Timbe River. Ramu: Battalion of 15th Brigade occupied Oroguna number 2 Village (8 miles vest by south Daumoina) advancing north east towards Oroguna number 1. Air. Enemy Action: 2 light raids Arave nil damage morning January 30, Single dive bomber damaged vessel Cape Ward Hunt afternoon January 28. Operations January 30: 1. 2 RAAF Beaufighters badly damaged 2 large cam- ouflaged barges Cape Hollman, Willaumex Peninoula. 2, 2 P39's set 2 oil barges afire, damaged another Rein Bay, 3. 1 B24 attacked small freighter off Manam Island, Hansa Bay, before dawn. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-20831 (32 Jan 44) E 0. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS DateMAY 681 31 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 0 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3 To1 War 0 1141 Ft Shafter No # COMPENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 31 January, 1944 4. 1 Squadron B25's with 13 P38's escort sank 2 emall freighters left sea truck burning destroyed 2 barges Hansa Bay, F38's escort destroyed 1 lugger 4 supply laden barges Bilau Bay. 5. Preliminary report states 2 Squadrons B25's with P47's escort dropped 21 tons bombs Alexishafen Bivouse supply areas. 6. P39 patrols straffed 2 villages Rai Coast, fuel drums Bogadjim. Northwestern Area. Land. Dutch New Guinea: Attack by enemy in 8 barges on Eilanden River post repulsed. Air. Enemy Action: Enemy airplanes attacked Allied post Eilanden River afternoon January 30. SOUPAC Forces. Naval: Gunboat bombarded Mosiga, south west Bougainville, Air. Enemy action: 3 aircraft made ineffective raid night January 28 on Torokina. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-20831 (31 Jan 44) E.O. 11652, Sec. 8(B) and 5(D) or (R) OSD letter, May % 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21-1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED o SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4 To: War C 1141 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 31 January, 1944 Operations January 29: 7. Single P38 strafed shorelines Kahili searchlights; P39 patrols strafed Sirurai Kunrai villages, south vest Bougainville; 2 Venturas 3 P39's attacked Mulambuli River Bivouac Area, Choiseul, 8. 28 fighters escorted 19 B24's against Lakunai, shot down 7 probably 2 others of 20/30 intercepting fighters; 7 grounded aircraft destroyed. 9. 17 Avengers 23 Dauntless with 60 fighters cover struck Tobera hut anti aircraft positions destroyed 5 ground- ed aircraft vrecked buildings shot down 17 probably 4 others of 30/50 enemy fighters; Allied losses 1 Corsair 1 Avenger. Part 3. Weather. Thick veather over Huon Peninsula, Vitiar Strait and vestern New Britain with frontal activity across Solomon Sea; Northvestern Area adverse conditions over Timor Sea, eastern Arafura Sea but improving further north. Air. (1) 1950 rounds 20MM, 4500 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from 500 to 150 feet. (2) No details received. CM-IN-20831 (31 Jan 44) E. 0. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(B) and B(D) of OSD letter, May 1. 1973 Date MAY 01 1973 By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 60 DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: War 0 1141 It Shafter No # CONGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 31 January, 1944 (3) 2 1000 lb, 4 X 500 1b one tenth second delay demolition bombs dropped from 1500 feet; moderate light insocurate enti airoraft fire, (4) 40 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs drop- ped from minimum altitude, 13,400 rounds 50, 4300 rounde 30 calibre fired in strafing by 825's; 500 rounds 20MM, 4300 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by P38 excort; intense medium accurate anti aircraft fire from shipping and shore. (5) and (6) No details received. No Big ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 00 AAP General Vandegrift Sir John Dill 00/3 (Captain Royal USN) White House Admiral King Log CM-IN-20831 (31 Jan 44) 1601z med E. o. DEPARTMENTS 11652. Sec. 1(B) and 6(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 Date MAY 2.1.1973 By DBS 60 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER fun INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 01113 post Pt Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 30 January 1944 Signed MacArtbur from GHQ SWFA to Chief of Staff War Department 00 Hawaiian Department CG USAPISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL C1113. Operations report SOWESPAC area. 13002/28 to 13002/29 signed MacArthur. New Britain: Rabuel: 70/100 fighters encountered by attacking SOUPAC aircraft morning January 28; vessels sighted heading east 25 miles north east Cape Lambert sarly morning January 29; 7 medium 10 smail cargo vessele 269 barges photographed in harbour January 29. Bismarck Sea: Small submarine sighted 75 miles south east Lorengau. west along New track Guinea: inland Huon from Seidor. Peninsula: Enemy reported moving Dutch New Guinea: Sorong: Photographs January 29 show new road jetties anti aircraft positions; new 4000 foot strip under construction Salawati Island, Northeastern area, Land, least of Sag Sag on west coast. Cape Gloucester: patrola encountered opposition CM-IN-20220 (30 Jan 44) DEGLASSIFIED E. O. 11652 Sec. 1(i) and 6(1) 3 OSD jetter, May By DBS Delivery 1. 1973 300 Somespac 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 01113 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 30 January 1944 Saidor: Eastward patrols nil contact; vestward patrols report defense position Yawi River. Sto: Kiari occupied, patrolling to west, Ramu: Allied attack made against heavy opposition on high ground north Kankiryo. Air. Enemy setion: Light raids Cape Gloucester Arave and Finschhafen alight damage January 29. Operations January 28: (1) 2 P39's strafed Gaamata Airdrome; reconnias- sance B24 scored near miss freighter transport north west Cape Pomas at night. Operations January 29: (2) 9 A20's bombed strafed enemy defense positions past Natamo River; 36 A 20's struck bivouse supply areas, barge hideouts Cape Buschang Itne River areas; bombing graded excellent; 8 P38's covered both missions. (3) 2 RAAF A20's hombed Lindenhafen bivouse area; 12 RAAF P40's swept New Britain coast strafed buildings Ubili, large open boat Jacquinot Bay. CM-IN-20220 (30 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(B) and KD) of (B) OSD letter, May, 1972 MAY WA 3/3 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 3 From: Rear Echelon OHQ SWFA To: War 01113 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 30 January 1944 (4) 4 patrolling P39's strafed buildings east Arave, damaged camouflaged oil barge Rottock Bay, (5) 2 squadrons B25's struck Bogia village; bomb- ing graded excellent. (6) 4 P40's bombed wooded area Saranp Harbour; 4 P39's patrolled Rai Coast strafed personnel set huts afire. (7) 16 P40's dive bombed enemy positions Ramu Valley. SOUPAC forces. Naval: Allied gunboat bombarded supply dumps Kakuruai, south Bougainville, Air. Operations January 28: (8) P39 patrols strafed Shortlands; 2 Venturas bombed strafed Tavelodo, Choiseul, (9) 48 Dauntless 18 Avengers with fighter escort struck Rabaul airfield started large fires hit anti aircraft positions destroyed 20 to 30 grounded aircraft damaged others, shot down 30 probably 12 others of 70 intercepting fighters; 5 P38's lost 2 pilots safe. DECLASSIFED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) of OSD letter, May % 1972 CM-IN-20220 (30 Jan 44) By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 12356 See 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 4 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 01113 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking NO # 30 January 1944 (10). 23 B25's escorted 12 P38's bombed heavily strafed Tobera from treetop height during afternoon, exploded 1 grounded aircraft, set 6 buildings ablaze, silenced anti aircraft fire, started many fires; nil interception, 1 B25 lost. (11) Add 1 Zeke destroyed over Rabaul January 26. Weather. Broken to overcast cloud with rain areas over Huon Peninsula and Vitias Strait, elsevhere mainly favourable except for frontal zone across Solomon Sea, usual deterioration at night; northwestern area broken lov and middle cloud with average visibility but frequent rain areas over Arnhem Laud and to north, Air. (1) 1 1000 1b, 2 500 lb one tenth second delay demolition bomba dropped from 1000 feet on freighter transport; moderate medium accurate anti aircraft fire: no details received P39's. (2) 29 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bomba dropped from minimum altitude, 11300 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing Natamo; 139 500 1b, 9 250 lb 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 58600 rounds 50 calibra spent in strafing Cape Busching area; light anti aircraft fire Natamo, BEGASTED K O. 11652, Sec. 3(R) and 6(D) or (8) CM-IN-20220 (30 Jan 44) OSD letter, May L1972 By DBS Data MAY 1973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED = 12355 Sec 33 or Sec 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 5 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 01113 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 30 January 1944 (3) 4 250 1b demolition 8 to 11 seconds delay bombs dropped from 50 feet by A20's; 2500 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by P40's. (4) No details received. (5) 336 100 lb instantaneous demolition bomba dropped. (6) 4 500 1b instantaneous demolition bomba, dropped from 14000 to 8000 feet by P40's; no details received P39's. (7) 16 500 lb 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped in dive from 10000 to 1000 feet. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAF White House General Vandegrift CC/S (Captain Royal USN) Admiral King E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Bec. S(E) and 5(D) or (6) Sir John Dill OSD letter. May 1, 1972 Log By DBS Date CM+IN-20220 (30 Jan 44) 15022 med MAY in 9/3 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER CI ADDRESSEES (VIACOM 7Til FLT) PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE - FROM PRIORITY 2 PRIORITY 3 RELEASED BY 29 JAN 1944 FOR ACTION COMICH 4 ROUTINE a DATE DEFERRED 6 291218 7 TOR CODEROOM CHO 8 PENNETT CINCPAC PRIORITY 9. DECODED BY PRIORITY to CROUPTON COM 3RD FLT 11 PARAPHRASED ROUTINE BY 12 HILL INFORMATION DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY 14 DISTRIBUTION WHITED NOICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL " TRANSMETED 290619 NON DEFERRES PREDEDENCE AND A ADVERSISTRATIVE 15 MCR 3837 IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 17 18 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: 10 DATE TIME GCT 20 or OUTGOING DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 COM 7TH FLEET SENDS FOR CINGSO ESPAC ACTION COMINCH INFO CHO CIRCPAC COM F-0 22 23 3RD FLEET. MACARTHUR. F-01 24 F-02 25 26 F-05 27 ECHELON OF 4 LST 3DD DUE GLOUCESTER TO ORROW MORNING. F-07 28 29 CCHELON 6 LST'S 3DD RETURNING FROM SAIDOR TODAY. 2 30 ARAME ECHELON 4 LCT 1 YM3 AND 1 SC RETURNED CAPE CRETIN. F-2 31 32 F-20 ) 33 PT DOATS CATALINAS NO CONTACTS. F-3 34 as F-30 36 F-31 37 38 F-32 as F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FX01 45 DECLASSIFIED FX30 46 E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) EX37 or 47 COMING ACT OSD letter, May 1, 1972 48 FX40 49 16 OP01 By DBS Data SHOW OP21 50 IG-00 51 MAY PERM 21 973 SHORET Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer In person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) OPNAV-NCR-18 290619 300 supa DECLASSIFIED O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER her INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C1076 Ft Shafter No # COMOENSOPAÇ No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 29 January 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Dept, COMGEN Havaiian Dept, COMGEN USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMDEL and AMMISCA C1076. Operations report SOUWESPAC area. 13002/27 to 1300z/28 signed MacArthur. New Ireland: Convoy approximately 15 vessels reported off west goast heading for Rabaul night January 27; possible destroyer camcuflaged sighted Emirau. New Britain: Rabual: Photographs January 28 indi- cate 8 emall cargo vessel less than previous day. Cape Gloucester: Patrols report a series of enemy defended positions from Natamo eastwards to Cape Gauffre. Admiralty Islands: Approximately 40 barges reported in area by attacking aircraft January 27. Dutch New Guines: Scrong: 1 medium 1 small freighter transport 1 sea truck 7 barges sighted in area January 27th; 1 bomber on Jefman Airdrome. MacCluer Gulf: 1 3000 ton freighter transport with 7 fighters cover reported heading west, 1 1000 ton freighter transport off Kokas. End of part one. & O. RECLASSIED 11652 Sec. (B) and 6(D) of (R) OSD letter, May 1 By DBS Date, CM-IN-19537 (29 Jan 44) MAY 1972 14973 COPY No. 45 3n sura THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec 33 or Sec. 34 0 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 01076 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 29 January 1944 Part two. North eastern area. Land. Cape Gloucester: Allied patrols encountered strong resistance after crossing Natamo River. Saidor: Intense patrolling made minor contacts. Sio: Advance reached Asiva River (south west Vincke Point) with patrols at Kiari. Air. Enemy action: Light raids on Cape Gloucester afternoon January 27 and early next morning. Operations January 27: (1) Catalina attacked convoy north vest Rabaul at night ser blazing fuel laden transport with 2 hits amidships. (2) 7-B25's bombed Mugil plantation area (Cape Croisilles). (3) 12-A20's destroyed buildings caused explosions Nobanob Village (north west Madang). CM-IN-19537 (29 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 3 1975 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NIL SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 3 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 01076 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 29 January 1944 (4) 12 RAAF P40's strafed set afire huts Jabob Jomba Islands. (5) 7 B25's caused fires Erima Planatation; bombing excellent. (6) 9 RAAF Vengeances bombed bridges along Bogtdjim Road, strafed area. (7) 4 P39's 2 RAAF Bomerange strafed personnel huts 3 barges along Rai coast. Operations January 28th: (8) 16 RAAF P40's strafed Cape Hoskins revetments destroyed 1 Zeke 1 Val. (9) 2-P39's strafed rendered unserviceable 7 barges Rein Bay. (10) 12 A20's bombed strafed enemy troop concentra- tions Borgen Bay, started fires. (11) 14-B25's with P47's escort swept Bogia Harbour to Cape Croisilles, destroyed several barges 3 bridges many buildings strafed anti sircraft positions. CM-IN-19537 (29 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and B(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Date MAY 2 L1973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec 3.3 or Sec 3.4 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 4 From: Rear *chelon GHQ SWPA To: War C1076 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 29 January 1944 (12) Patrolling P39's strafed 4 barges along Rai coast, swept up Ramu Valley to Atemble, strafed huts build- ings resembling military headquarters. (13) 8-A20's bombed strafed enemy concentrations Singor Village (west Saidor) and coastal tracks. North vestern area. Air. Operations January 27th: (14) 5 RAAF Catalinas bombed Laha Airfield (Ambon) at night, caused explosions large fires visible 60 miles. (15) 6-B24's attacked shipping at Sorong (Dutch New Guines), probably destroyed 1 of 7 intercepting fighters over Mac lver Gulf. SOUPAC forces. Naval: PT boats with cooperating Catalina attacked Puriata Mamagata (Empress Augusta Bay Area); gunboat bombared Mamagata night January 26. PT boats destroyed barge Choiseul Bay following night. Air. Enemy action: 2 of 4 enemy aircraft bombed Torokina before dawn. Operations January 27th: (16) 6 Avengers 6 Dauntless struck bivouse areas CM-IN-19537 (29 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(B) and B(D) or (2) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Data 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECL ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 5 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 01076 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 29 January 1944 south Ibu, Numa Numa area. (17) P39's hit south west Bougainville and Buka coast; single B25 started large fire Maliai Village (Morgusiai Island); single reconnaissance aircraft attacked left burning 2 ships in 12 ship convoy south Dyaul Island at night. (18) 19 B25's 64 fighters escort bombed Lakunai revetments, started large fire; shot down 23 probably 6 others of 30 to 40 intercepting fighters; 6 Allied fighters lost, 2 pilots safe. (19) 2 squadrons B24's 56 fighters escort struck supply dumps Sulphur Creek (Rabaul) during afternoon, enemy fighters refused combat; 1 B24 bombed East Cape, another Buka. End of part 2. Part 3. Weather. Broken cloud and scattered showers genera- lly but overcast over southern Solomon Sea and thick veather further south; north vestern area closed depression in Western Timor Sea causing thick rain areas through Arafura Sea but improving over Banda Sea. Air. (1) 2 1000 1b general purpose bombs dropped. (2) 2 1000 lb, 96 100 1b instantaneous, 1 1000 BECLASSIFIED CM-IN-19537 (29 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 6(D) or (BY OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Dat MAY 21 1373 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 6 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C1076 Ft Shafter No # COMOENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 29 January 1944 1b one tenth second delay demolition, 8 500 1b incendiary clusters dropped from 5,500 feet. (3) 34 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 11,400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (4) 5,200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (5) 12 500 lb incendiary, 95 100 1b instantaneous demolition bombs from 8000 feet. (6) 18 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped in dives from 9000 feet releasing at 2,500 feet; 800 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from 600 feet. (7) No details P39's, 60 rounds 20MM, 1500 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by Boomerangs. (8) 7,800 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from 1700 to 50 feet; alight insccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. (9) No details received. (10) 39 500 1b, 8 500 1b wire wrapped 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; CM-IN-19537 (29 Jan 44) E. 0. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. (E) and 6(D) or (B) OSD letter, May & 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NI 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 7 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C1076 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 29 January 1944 21,200 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (11) 60 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 24,200 rounds 50, 5,100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light, intense medium accurate anti aircraft fire. (12) 36 rounds 37MM, 1100 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from minimum altitude by 2 aircraft, no details other 2. (13) 22 500 2b, 4 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 11,400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (14) 16 500 lb, 20 250 1b general purpose instantaneous, 80 20 1b fragmentation, 60 30 1b incendiary bombs, boxes of 4 1b incendiaries dropped from 10000 to 6000 feet. (15) 30 50 1b general instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9,600 feet; 6 hung up and jettisoned at sea; 800 rounds 30 calibre fired in combat; moderate heavy DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-19537 (29 Jan 44) E. O. 11602 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (B) OSD letter, May 4 1973 By DBS Date MAY - & 1973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NI R 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 8 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 01076 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 29 January 1944 insccurate anti-aircraft fire Sorong, slight light inaccurate from vessel MacCluer Gulf. Refer paragraph 5 preceding report: 36 1000 1b 127 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 15,900 to 12,600 feet by other 17 aircraft; slight medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire; 8,700 rounds 50 calibre, 887 rounds 20MM fired in strafing by 17 P38's. Refer paragraph 7 preceding report: 24 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 200 feet; 9700 rounds 50, 4,700 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by other 6 aircraft; slight light inaccurate anti craft fire. Refer report covering operations January 26th, paragraph B: 36 1000 1b one tenth second delay, 18 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8500 to 6300 feet by 18 B25's. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2, CG AAP, White House, Admiral King, General Vandegrift, Sir John Dill, 00/3 (Captain Royal USN), Log CM-IN-19537 (29 Jan 44) 17272 med DECLASSIFIED E O. 11652 Sec. 3(B) and 1972 S(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, Date, By DBS MAY 21 1973 COPY N&5 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 -MAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTMENT DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE - FROM CINC SWPA 2 PRIORITY a PRIORITY RELEASED BY FOR ACTION COMINGH ROUTINE 5 DATE 28 JANUARY 1944 DEFERRED 6 7 TOR CODEROOM 1147 8 9 DECODED BY MITCHELL CNO PRIORITY 10 INFORMATION PRIORITY, PARAPHRASED CINCPAC ROUTINE BY RULE 12 COM 3RD FLEET DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY HUTCHISON 14 UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATE? THE DISPATEN WILL " TRANSMITTED ATTN REFERRED PRESEDENCE DO AS ADMINISTRATIVE is IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 280711 17 NCR 3176 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTGOING DISPATCHES PLEASE LOVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-O 22 (COM 7TH FLEET PASSING FOR CINCSUPA. ACTION 23 COMICH INFO CNO CHICPAC COM 3RD FEEET) F-01 24 Buna F-02 25 26 6 LSTS FROM CRETIN AND SUDEST WITH 3 DDS ENROUTE F-05 27 F-07 28 SAIDOR. 2 LSTS WITH 2 DDS RETURNED SUDEST FROM 29 F-1 30 SAIDOR WITH CASUALTIES. FOUR LCTS WITH SC Y.S F-2 31 32 ESCORT ETA ARAWE 073CL/30. BOAT-PLANE SEARCH FOUND F-20 33 F-3 34 NO ADDITIONAL SURVIVORS CR WRECKAGE FROM PT COLLI- 35 F-30 36 SION YESTERDAY. PT PATROLS NEGATIVE RESULTS. F-31 37 38 F-32 whitell BLACK CATS SCATTERED 10/15 SHIP RABAUL *BOUND CONVOY 39 F-33 40 SETTING FIRE TO 0300 TON AP WITH 21 THOUSAND POUND BOMBS 41 42 INTS. SHIP APPARENTLY LOADED WITH AVGAS. F-4 43 44 FX01 45 COMINGH ACT 45 FX30 47 200P 16 FX37 BUMED 48 DUPERS 23 OP-03 FX40 49 50 10-00 51 DECLASIFIED 52 SECRET E. O. 11652 Sec. S(E) and 1 ($) OSD letter, May 4 1972 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 B) NABSEGS) Date MAY 3 OPNAY-NCR-IS 280711 360 Somespac DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA 4/13/96 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT fm CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Ech, CHQ, SWPA To: War No, 0-996 Ft Shafter No. # COMGENSOPAC No. # New Delhi No. # Chungking No. # 27 January 1944 Operations report SOWESPAC Area 1300Z/25 to 13002/26 signed MacArthur. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, Commanding General Havaiian Department, COMGEN USAFISPA pass COMSOPAC, CG AMMISCA, CG AMMDEL. Saint Matthias group: Convoy comprising 5 destroyers 1 merchant vessel 1 escort vessel reported 10 miles south Mussau Island course 315 degrees 15452 25. New Ireland: Photographs January 25 show 1 medium 3 small cargo vessels 8 barges Kavieng Harbour, 4 fighters 1 dive bomber Kavieng Airfield, nil aircraft Namatanai Borpop. New Britain: Rabaul: Photographs morning January 25 show 24 fighters 9 dive bombers 6 light bombers 36 medium bombers on Lakunai Rapopo Vunakanau, 1250 feet additional surfaces Duke of York Island Airstrip. SOUPAC afternoon fighter sweep encountered no inter- ception, observed 30 fighters Rapopo where only three photo- graphed morning, sighted 3 destroyers off Praed Point heading North East. Cape Hoskins: Strip observed unserviceable. New Guinea: Dagua: 12 fighters reported on airfield January 26. E. o. DECLASSFIED 11652 Bec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (Ref) CM-IN-18113 (27 Jan 44) OSD letter, May % 1973 Date NOT 21 1973 300 Somespac By DBS 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY Page 2 Alexishafen: 10 twin engined aircraft sighted on sirfield, strip serviceable January 25. Madang: Strip being repaired, 5 aircraft observed same day. Northwestern Area: Single enemy bomber sighted on reconnaissance over Arafura Sea. Reconnaissance indicated over Broome and Derby (Australian mainland). End of part 1. Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land. Cape Gloucester: Patrol met strong enemy position 1500 yards south Natamo Point. X SIO Forward elements reached Kwama River. Saidor: Enemy patrol south west ambushed, 4 killed 2 captured; identified as members First Company 80th Infantry Regiment, state strength First Battalion 120 men. Kankiryo: 18 Brigade captured high ground mile north Kankiryo Saddle. Air. Enemy action: Light night raids on Arave and Natamo, no damage. Operations January 25: 1. Further 17 B25's raided Lorengau Area, left large lugger burning, destroyed barge and jetty. 2. 12 RAAF P40's bombed strafed and hit 4 barges Gogol River (Madang). 3. 37 B25's bombed Alexishafen Madang Gragat Island Area started large fires and explosions (Strike paragraph 6 preceding report occured January 24). DEPARTMENT CM-IN-18113 (27 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sen. (E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 211973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY Page 3 4. 8 P39's strafed Karkar Island January 24, damaged buildings and piers. Operations January 261 5. 40 B24's bombed Lorengau, Momote Airdrome and Salamai Plantation, caused explosions followed by fires in supply areas, destroyed buildings and jetty, left runway un- serviceable. 6. 2 P39's destroyed 2 barges north coast Willaumex Peninsula. 7. 8 A20's attacked troop concentrations east Natamo. 8. Preliminary report states A20's and B25's attacked attacked Alexishafen Madang Area, destroyed 4 aircraft on ground. 9. 2 P39's strafed and damaged 4 barges Melanua Harbour Area. 10. 22 A20's raided troops and supplies Bonga/Gali Area with excellent results. SOUPAC Forces. Land: Ground forces after artillery 1 and gunboat barrage advanced 350 yards east Torokina River mouth, met strong opposition, destroyed pillbox. Air. Enemy action: 8 aircraft bombed outside allied lines Torokina, anti aircraft fire destroyed 1 aircraft. Operations: 11. 8 Dauntless 2 Avengers bombed area east of Musupine Point. 12. 24 B25's to strike Lakunai grounded due weather. 13. Fighters circled Rabaul for half hour met no interception. CM-IN-18113 (27 Jan 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. B(B) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1973 MAY 211973 By DBS Data 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY Page 4 14. Night reconnaissance aircraft scored hit on one of five vessels off Kavieng. Part 3. Weather. Mainly favourable with broken middle cloud but thunderstorms developed at night; Northwestern Area conditions favourable with excellent visibility except for extensive rains over Arnhem Land. Air. 1. 37x1000 LB, 42x500 LB 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 100 feet, 3x500 LB salvoed; 33,900 rounds 50, 9,100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; intense light accurate anti aircraft fire. 2. 12x500 LB instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 1200 feet; 3500 rounds 50 calibre fired in straffing from minimum altitude. 3. 39x1000 LB, 77x500 LB instantaneous, 27x1000 LB 1/10 second delay demolition bombs dropped from 9,000 to 7,500 feet. 4. 84 rounds 37 MM, 500 rounds 50, 1700 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from 50 feet. 5. 36x1000 LB, 323x500 LB instantaneous, 72x500 LB 1/10 second delay demolition bombs dropped from 12000 to 9000 feet; 13x500 LB bombs salvoed; slight light and medium mostly inaccurate anti aircraft fire. 6. 7. 8. and 9. no details received. 10. 42x500 LB, 17x300 LB, 5x250 LB 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 30,000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. Nosig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2, CG AAF, White House, Field Marshal Dill, CC/S (Capt. Royal USN), Adm. King, General Vandegrift, Log CM-IN-18113 (27 Jan 44) 20112 med COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 12356 See HAVAL MESSAGE HAVY DEPARTMENT DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE CINCEOWESTPAC (MACARTHUR) ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 1 PPPPPPP FROM VIA COM 7TH FLT PRIORITY 3 COMINGH 27 JAN 44 FOR ACTION 4 RELEASED BY ROUTINE 5 DEFERRED 6 DATE 7 271126 8 TOR CODEROOM CNO, COM 3RD FLT ddddddd 9 DENNETT DECODED BY CINCPAC PRIORITY 10 INFORMATION 11 PARAPHRASED :ELLS ROUTINE 12 BY DEFERRED 13 ROLL 14 ROUTED BY 15 VALUE DIRECTIVE INDICATED THIS DISPATED will II TAMINITED WITH DEFERRED PRESEDENCE 00 as ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 270629 IICR 2581 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME CCT 20 OR OUTGOING DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT DIE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE TOT ACTION 21 COM 7TH FLT PASSEB FOR CINCSOMESTPAC F-0 22 ACTION COMICH INFO ONO COM 3RD FLT 23 F-01 CINCPAC 24 (Bune) F-02 25 26 2 LST'S 3 DD'S ARRIVED SUDEST FROM CRETIN AFTER SUPPLYING 27 F-07 28 CAPE GLOUCESTER. SAIDOR ECHELON OF 4 LST'S, sc, YUS 29 F-1 30 LEFT CRETIN FOR ARABE. NIGHT 26/27 PT PATROLS NECATIVE F-2 31 32 RESULTS. 1 ENLISTED MAN KILLED, 1 OFFICER 6 11EN INJURED F-20 33 F-3 34 NOT SERIOUSLY AND 2 OFFICERS AND 5 ENLISTED MEN MISSING 35 F-30 36 PROBABLY DEAD AS RESULT OF EXPLODING DEPTH CHARGE F-31 37 38 FOLLOWING COLLISION OF PT'S 110 AND 114 AT 0110L/26. F-32 39 F-33 40 4 UNIDENT FIGHTERS DROPPED AERIAL BOMBS WITH NO RESULTS 41 F-34 42 ON BLACK CATS MIGHT 26/27. A/S SEARCH BY BLACK CATS F-4 43 44 SAME NIGHT WITH REGATIVE RESULTS. FX01 45 FX30 46 47 COMINGH ACT E. O. - 11652, Bec. 10 and THE S(D) FX37 or (B) 49 OSD letter, May 50 SHOW 20 Date 10-00 of By DBS YCNO 52 SECRET MAY 2 1973 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) OPNAY-NCH-15 270629 300 Somespec DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA. Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: Ft Shafter TH No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # WAR C-948 26 January 1944. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, COMGEN Hawaiian Department, CONGEN USAFISPA pass to COMBOPAC, CG AMNDEL, 00 AMMISCA. Operations report SOUWESPAC Area. 13002/24 to 13002/25 signed MacArthur. C-948. New Britain: Rabaul: Catalina reported uniden- tified vessel using intense light antiaircraft fire 35 miles North Cape Pomas night January 24. Arave: Area reported clear of enemy 5000 years forward main line re- sistance. Cape Gloucester: 2 barges reported landing reinforcements Cape Gauffre dusk January 24; natives to South report enemy moving East. New Guinea: Hansa Bay: 17 barges sighted in Bay January 25; 3 troop laden barges moving South along coast towards Madang sunk by PT boats night January 23. Huon Peninsula: Reconnaissance air- creft report only slight use coastal track between Vincke and Reiss points. Part 2. North Eastern Area. Land: Arawe: Patrols cleared area 5000 years forward MLR; Umtingala and airdrome free of enemy. Cape Gloucester: Ground forces met re- :istance 2 miles East Natamo; Artillery sank barge off Gape Gauffre. Ramu Valley: Patrol down Mintjis Valley inflicted casualties; Contact maintained mile North Kan- kiryo. Naval: 2 light cruisers 3 destroyers bombarded Alexishafen and Madang, started fires, 1 shore gun re- turned fire no damage. Air. Enemy action: 6 aircraft JM-IN-17210 (26 Jan 44) E. o. 11652 Bee 1(B) and 1972 s(D) or (il) REQUESTED OSD letter, May MAY 211973 Date By DBS 59 30s Somespac COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: Ft Shafter TH No # COMGENSOPAC No. # New Delhi No # Chungking No # WAR 0-948 26 January 1944, page 2, raided Arawe night January 24, no damage, light raid next morning: Operations January 25: (1) Patrolling B24's bombed and damaged gunboat off Sepik River, also bombed large barge 86 miles South East Lorengau, bombed gun posi- tions Manua and warehouse Garove Island. (2) 39 B 25's bombed and strafed Momote Airdrome and Lorenbau Area, 8 enemy aircraft ( some unserviceable 1 were destroyed, barges jetties and buildings vere set afire anti aircraft gun positions vere silenced; 3 B25's lost. (3) 2 RAAF A20's, B P40's bombed and silenced 2 gun positions Cape Dampier. (4) 6 P39's strafed Uligan damaged 3 barges, 1 P39 lost. (5) 49 B24's diverted from Wewak by weather bombed Hanya Bay, started fires in dump areas, bad weather hampered bombing, 2 other aircraft bombed Alexishafen and Bogadjim. (6) 18 B25's bombed supply dump and villages on Gragat Island (off Madang), started large fires. (7) 4 P39's strefed barges along Rai Coast left 5 unserviceable. (8) 8 P47's heavily strafed enemy concentrations Gali area. SOUPAC forces. Naval activity: PT's shelled area South Motupina Plant. Air. Operations January 24; (9) 4 B25's bombed Tobera. (10) 18 Avengers covered by 84 fighters attacked Rabaul shipping midday sank one 6000 ton, one 1000 ton cargo vessel, left one 7500 ton, one 6000 ton, one 3000 ton cargo vessels, one 8000 ton dler binking, left one 10,500 ton oiler beached and damaged, one 5000 ton cargo vessel badly damaged; 24 enemy fighters were destroyed 4 others probably destroyed; 1 Corsair lost. CM-IN-17210 (26 Jan 44) & O. 11682 Sec. S(E) and 6(D) of (IF) OSD letter, May MAY 1972 211973 Data By DBS 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: Ft Shafter TH No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 0-948 26 January 1944. page 3. (11) add additional 2 enemy fighters shot down afternoon January 23. Part 3. Weather. Scattered thunderstorms over Huon Peninsula and South East Papua during afternoon and deteriorating during later hours; North Western Area mainly favorable except for local showers and scattered thunder- storma, extensive rain areas over Arnhem land. Air. (1) 1 x 1000 1b, 2 X 500 1b 1/10 second delay bomba dropped from 2000 feet on gunboat, met slight medium in- accurate anti aircraft fire; 2 R 1000 lb, 4 X 500 lb 1/10 second delay bombs dropped from 1500 feet on barge; 2 X 1000 1b 1/10 second delay bomba dropped from 8000 feet Garove, same on Lorengau, slight heavy and medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire Lorengau. (2) 99 H 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay, 71 x 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay dropped from minimum altitude; 82,700 rounds 50, 19,000 rounds 30 calibre spent in strafing; moderate some accurate anti aircraft fire all calibres. (3) 4 K 500 lb, 4 x 250 lb 8 to 11 seconds delay bomba dropped from 500 to 200 feet; 8 X 500 1b instantaneous demolition bomba dropped from 2000 feet. (4) no details. (5) 257 x 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bomba dropped from 17,500 to 15,000 feet; moder- ate heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire; 12 bombs on Bogad- jim and Alexishafen. (6) 35 x 1000 lb, 36 x 500 1b bombs dropped from 10,000 feet. (7) no details. (8) 11,900 rounds 50 calibre fired from minimum altitude. No 31g. CM-IN-17210 (26 Jan 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Boe. S(R) and B(D) of (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1978 MAY 211973 By DBS Date, COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: Ft Shafter TH No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # WAR C-948 26 January 1944. Page 4 ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAP Adm King Gen Vandergrift CC/3 Capt Royal USN Sir John Dill White House LOG CM-IN-17210 (26 Jan 44) 15072 e jm DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11662 Sec. S(E) and 5(D) of (5) OSD letter. May 1 1972 By DBS Date, MAY 21.1973 53 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTME DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE CINCSWPA - MACARTHUR ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE I FROM (VIA COM 7TH FLT) 2 PRIORITY 3 FOR ACTION COMINCH 4 RELEASED BY ROUTINE 5 DATE 25 JAN 1944 DEFERRED 6 7 TOR CODEROON 251200 8 9 DECODED BY SELBY CNC PRIOROMY 10 PARAPHRASED INFORMATION CINCPAC 11 ROUTINE BY CROUPTON 12 DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY HILL 14 15 UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THE DISPATCH WILL BE TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRESEDENCE AND AS ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 250657 NCR 1959 17 IS 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTGOINE DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-O 22 COM 7TH FLT SENDS FOR CINCSWPA. ACTION 23 F-01 COMICH INFO CNO AND CINPAC. MACARTHUR. 24 F-02 25 26 F-05 ECHELON 4 LST'S LKL 3 DD'S UNLOADED AND DEPARTED 27 F-07 28 FROM CAPE GLOUCESTER FOR CAPE SUDEST. ANOTHER ECHELON 29 F-1 30 OF 4 LST'S AND 2 DD'S RETURNED TO SUDEST FROM F-2 31 32 F-20 GLOUCESTER. 4 LCT'S PLUS 1 YES AND 1 SC ARRIVED ARAWE 33 F-3 34 THIS MORNING. MIP PLANES DID MINOR DAMAGE TO LST 35 F-30 36 201 WITH 1 HIT 2 NEAR MISSES AT DREGER HARBOR. F-31 37 as F-32 39 F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 COMMON...ACT 44 FX01 45 16...20G...OP FX30 46 47 FX37 48 DECLASSIFIED 49 FX40 E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and A(D) or (E) 50 OSD letter, May 1, 19720 51 VCNO 52 Date SECRET By DBS MAY 21 1973 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) OPNAV-NCH-15 250657 3am Somespac DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 / SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER the INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon OHQ SWPA To : War C-916 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 25 January 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Dept, COMGEN Hawaiian Dept, COMGEN USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMDEL and AMMISCA C-916. Operations report SOUWESPAC area period 13002/23 to 13002/24 signed MacArthur. Admiralty Islands: 1,500 ton freighter sighted head- ing vest 30 miles east Lorengau midday January 23; 2 medium ressele similar course midnight 60 miles east. New Ireland: Photographs January 23 show 8 fighters 45 medium bombers Kavieng, 4 fighters Panapai; in harbour 1 destroyer 1 medium 3 amall cargo vessela. New Britain: Rebaul: Photographs apparently follow- ing strike January 23 show 75 fighters 52 bombers. New Guinea: Wewak: Probable destroyer reported off Casuarina Point early morning January 24. Night reconnaiss- ance planes report groups of 5 and 11 night fighters en- countered in area. Hollandia: 4 medium merchant vessels reported by photo- graphic reconnaissance plane midday January 23. Flores Island: 2 strip serviceable 4,600 feet, nil aircraft per photographs January 23. End of part 1. Part 2. North Eastern area. Land: Cape "Gloucester: Patrol Natamo area killed 40 enemy destroyed 20 machine gune DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-16493 (25 Jan 44) E 0. 11652, Bec. 3(R) and &(D) OSD letter. May By DBS MAY 01 1373 300 Somespac 66 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 0 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER To INCOMING MESSAGE Ft Shafter No COMGENSOPAC No New Delhi No Chungking No 25 January 1944 1 captured quantities ammunition end supplies, onemy retreat- ed to east. Saidor: Extensive patrolling continues, no contact. Sio: Patrols located small enemy groups killed 23. Ramu Valley: 18 Brigade consolidating Kankiryo Saddle area, company captured enemy positions above Paipa (4 miles down Mintjim Valley). Nayal: PT's strafed lights along Rai Coast, destroy- ed 3 south bound barges Isumrud Strait, 1 barge north west Pommern Bay, Air: Enemy action: 2 light raids Arave night January 23, no damage or consualties. Preliminary report states raid Finschhafen same night. Operations January 24: (1) Night B24 bombed area near mouth Sepik River, bombed buildings Unes Island, and gun positions Lorengau. (2) 38 B25's bombed and strafed Lorengau Momote air- dromes and shipping in harbour, destroyed 7 afrcraft probably destroyed 3 others on ground, hit anó sank 31,000 ton nea trucks damaged 2 others, destroyed gesoline truck, number schooners and barges, left buildings burning; escorting P38's also heavily strafed area. (3) 1 RAAF A20 hombed Dump area Cape Hoskins January 22. (4) 25 RAAP Beauforts escorted by P40's and Spitfires, bombed dump areas Cape Hoskins; bombing excellent. (5) 33 B24's bombed Vevak Bhram Airdromes and supply areas, destroyed is grounded aircraft, started large fires in dumps bombing excellent; no interosption; 1-B24 bombed Amele Mission. (6) 23 B25's bombed and heavily strefed Hansa Bay area started large number fires In supply dumps hit barges; bomb- E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Bec. 3(10 and B(D) or (6) CM-IN-16493 (25 Jan 44) OSD letter, May 4 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Data, COPY No. 66 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 MI 101 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Pr INCOMING MESSAGE To : War C-916 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 25 January 1944 ing excellent. (7) 2 P39's strafed Oali area. North western area. Air operations: (8) 6 B24's bombed villages Tenimbar Islands. SOUPAC forces. Air. Enemy action: 25 bombs droppedTTorokina night January 22, fev casualties. Operations January 23: (9) 20 patrolling P39's strafed Shortlands area; 1 Dauntless 1 Avenger bombed Monoi tu Mission ; 5 Dauntless 6 Avengers bombed Nums Numa area, night Catalina dropped depth charges Kieta. (10) Further details Rabeul strike night January 22: 30 not 3 B24's followed 6 B25's; caused large fires and ex- plosions town area destroyed number buildings. (11) 45 Dauntless, 18 Avengers in surprise attack bombed Lakunai airdrome strefed harbour shipping destroyed Rabaul or damaged 17 gun positions and 8 airoraft on ground, start- ed large fuel fire and left cargo vessel smoking: 32 onemy Interceptors vere shot down 14 others probably destroyed : our losses 3 fighters, 2 pilots safe (12) 48 allied fighters returned over Rabaul in after- noon circled area then shot down 14 of 60 anamy fighters airborne, 1 other probably shot down: no allied loss. End of part 2. Part 3. Weather, Woll broken cloud with storms on hills in north eastern area, broken cloud Arafur area vith large rain areas to north sast, Air. (1) 1 by 1000 1b, 2 by 500 1b one tenth second do- lay bomba dropped from. 1500 Sepik aron; 2 by 1000 1b one tenth second delay bomba dropped area from 6000 feat: 2 by1000 DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-16493 (25 Jan 44) E. O. 11652 Sec. S(E) and 6(D) of OSD letter. May 42872 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 66 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 $ SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER From INCOMING MESSAGE To 42 0-910 Pt. Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Thungking No # 25 January 1944 1b bomba dropped from 8000 fest Lorengnu, slight medium and heavy anti Mre Lorengau. (2) 76 by 1000 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs drop- plid from minimum altituda; 95,600 rounds 50, 32,000 rounds 30 calibre fired by bombers; 10,500 rounds 50 calibre, 1,185 rounds 20 MM fired by fighters; elight light end medium in- socurate anti aircraft fire. (3) 8 by 100 1b 4 to 5 second delay bombo drooped from 10,000 feet. (4) 49 by 500 1b, 91 oy 250 1b general purpose rod extension bembs dropped from 13,000 feet: alight heavy insceprate anti aircraft fire. (5) 191 by 1000 1b, 4 by 2000 lb instantansous de- mulition boebs dropped from 20,000 to 17500 feet; moderate medium and heavy some accurate anti aircraft fire;o by 1000 1b bombo dropped Amele. (6) 145 by 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bonibe dropped from 200 to 50 feet . 45,200 rounds 50, 7,100 rounds 30 calibre spent in strafing: moderate heavy insccurate anti aircraft fire. (7) Ro details. (9) 42 by 500 1b demolition bonton dropped from 7000 feet; moderate heavy inncrurate anti aircraft fire Salaros Island. No Sig ACTION: OPD AMPORMATION: G-2, COAAF, Gon Vendegrift Adm, King Field Marchal Dill, LOG, CCS, (Capt Royal, USN) ON-IN-16493 (25 Jun 14) 15522 DECLASSIFIED new E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 6(D) or (8) OSD-letter, May 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 66 g COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT fun CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE OPERATIONAL PRIORITY From Rear Bobelon ONQ, SWPA To: War No. 0-870 Ft. Shafter, No # COMGENSOPAC, No # # New Delhi, No # Chungking No # 24th January 1944. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Dept Commanding General Havaiian Dept CO USAFISPA pass to CONSOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL o 870. Operations report SOWESPAC area period 13002/ 22nd to 1300z/23rd signed MacArthur. Admiralty Islande: destroyer course 240 degrees, medium freighter course west sighted 60/75 miles east night January 22nd. New Ireland: photographs January 22nd show Borpop and Namatanai runvays serviceable 3000 feet, oil aircraft. New Britain: Rabault 40 to 70 energy fighters re- ported airborne afternoon January 22nd; # cargo vessels 455 to 320 feet photographed in Simpson Herbour with 6 smaller vessels 230 barges; 2 destroyers sighted in area afternoon January 23rd; convoy of 10 small vessels re- ported 65 miles west Cape Lambert course 200 Tegrees night January 22nd, also destroyer in same area. Jacquinot Bay: 10 barges sighted along beach moreding January 23rd. Nev Guinea: destroyer reported heading Wewak mid- night January 22nd. End of part one. CM-IN-15744 (24 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E O. 11662 Sec. (6) and 6(D) - a OSD letter. May 1, 1978 By DBS Date, 3 00 Somespre MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2 From: Rear Bchelon GHQ SWPA To: War No. 0-870 Ft. Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 24th January 1944 Part 2. Northeastern area. Land. Areve: patrols active. Cape Gloucester: rifle company encountered well prepared enemy positions Natamo Point January 22nd, killed 10 enemy. next day marine patrols killed 10 enemy same area. Saidor: patrols active to south east and south west. Ramu Valley: 18 captured Shaggy Ridge occupied Kan- kiryo area, 130 enemy dead counted, number field guns captured. Air. Entry action: two raids Arave morning January 23rd, few casualties. Operations: (1) Reconnaissance B24's bombed destroyer in convoy 64 miles west Cape Pomas, damaged freighter 74 miles east Lorengau with near miss. (2) Night Catalinas bombed and strafed destroyer 30 miles east Wewak, also bombed destroyed 63 miles east Lorengau. DECL ASSIPED OM-IN-15744 (24 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Bec. S(B) and 6(D) of B OSD letter, May , 1978 By DBS Date, 59 MAY 21 1973 COPY No.: THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 3 From: Rear Echelop GHQ 8WPA Tot War No. 0-870 Ft. Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 24th January 1944 (3) Two RAAF A20's. bombed and silenced gun position Cape Dampier. (4) Thirteen A20's bombed and strafed enemy pill- boxes vicinity Natamo Point, cause large explosion, bomb- ing graded excellent. (5) Preliminary report: 34 B24's (1 other hombed and destroyed bufldings Amele Mission south west Madang) bombed and destroyed 1 gun position Boram airdrome caused explosions among others, bombing graded excellent; of approximately 50 enemy, fighters intercepting 33 shot down, 12 others probably destroyed by bombers and escort; Allied losses 5 fighters missing. (6) P39's strafed barges Uligan Harbour, 1 P39 lost. (7) Further 7 B25's bombed and strafed road north Alexishafen January 22nd, destroyed 2 bridges hit 4 others, destroyed buildings. (8) Nine A20's bombed and strafed enemy troops Bonga and along Rai coast. (9) Twelve RAAF Vengeances bambed enemy positions Mataloi (5 miles south west Yaula), bombing excellent. Northwestern area. Air. Operations: CM-IN-15744 (24 Jan 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OBD letter. May & 1972 By DBS Date 50 MAY 217973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 4 From: Rear Schelon GRQ SWPA Tor War No. 0-870 Ft. Shafter No.# COMGENSOPAC No 1 Nov Delhi No f Chungicing No 1 24th January 1944 (10) Two RAAF P40's destroyed 1 enemy bomber 1 fighter 60 miles south west Cape Valech. (11) Two reconnaissance B24's bombed totallo and anchored freighter Maomere, jetty area at Ende (Flores). BOUPAC Foross. Naval: LCM gunboat shelled enemy barge bfdeout east Cape Torokina. Air. Operations January 22nds (12) Two Venturas bombed and strafed radio station Mamagata, Dauntless bombed enemy pillboxes east Motupena Point. (13) Twenty seven B25's bombed Lakunai airdrome, scored 54 hits on runway started number fires, 92 fighters escorting destroyed 18 enemy fighters probably destroyed 2 others: 5 Mades fighters I B25 100% (14) Three B241s, 6 B25's harassed Rabaul town during night, started large fires visible 75 miles; 2 B25's missing. (15) Reconnaissance B24 destroyed launch Feni Island. CM-IN-15744 (24 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and B(D) or (11) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS Date 59 MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 5 From Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War No. 0-870 Ft. Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No $ Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 24th Jenuary 1944 Part 3. Weather. Mainly favourable, scattered thunder storms at night over sea, think weather along north coast Dutch New Guinea; scattered middle cloud northwestern section. (1) 1 1000, 2 500 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped from 2,500 feet on destroyer, moderate light inaccurate anti aircraft fire; 2 1000 1b, 4 500 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bomba dropped from 1,500 feet on freighter, moderate light inaccurate anti airoraft fire. (a) Intense light and modium insccurate anti air- craft fire from destroyer, no other details. (3) 2 250 1b demolition 11 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from 700 to 50 feet; slight light accurate anti aircraft fire. (4) 50 250 1b demolition 4 to delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 22,900 rounds 50 calibre fired in starfing. (5) 204 1000 1b instantem Due demolition hombs dropped from 19,600 to 17,800 feet; 25,000 round 50, 2500 rounds 30 calibre fired by bombers against intercepting fighters; light to intense heavy insccurate anti aircraft CM-IN-15744 (24 Jan 44) DECLASSIFED E. 0. 11652 Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter. May 1 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1970 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS-MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 6 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War No. 0-870 COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # Pt. Shafter No # - 24th January 1944 fire; 423 rounds 20 MM, 4,100 rounds 50 calibre fired by 3 aquadrons fighters. (6) No details received. (7) 148 100 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 200 feet to minimum altitude; 18,900 rounds 50, 9,700 rounds 30 calibre spent in strafing. (8) 31 250 1b demolition 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 7,800 rounds 50 calibre fired in starfing. (9) 22 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 10,000 to 1,000 feet; * # due rack failure; 500 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire Maomere, medium from freighter. No Sig # Being serviced ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2, CG AAP, Gen. Vandegrift, Adm. King, CO/B (Capt. Royal, USN) Field Marshall Dill, White House, LOG CM-IN-15744 (24 Jan 44) 14542 E. O. 11652 Sec. 1(E) and 8(D) of (B) OSD letter, May 4 1972 MAY 2 1c1873 By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED NAVAL MESSAGE NAV'. DEPARTMENT DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE (MACARTHUR) ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 1 FROM CINCSOWESPAC VIA CON 2 7TH FLEET PRIORITY COMINCH PPPPPP 3 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION 4 ROUTINE 5 DATE 24 JAN 1944 DEFERRED 6 7 1121/24 8 TOR CODEROOM 9 DECODED BY SCHNEIDER CNO PRIORITY 10 INFORMATION ddddd CINCPAC 11 PARAPHRASED ROUTINE BY MORRIS COM 3RD FLEET 12 DEFERRED 13 SCRUGGS 14 ROUTED BY 15 UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS CHEPATON WILL R TRANSMITTE WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE IND 41 ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 240725 17 NCR 762 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 OR OUTSOING BISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE DATE CLEAR SPACE BEFORE REGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 (con 7TH FLEET PASSES FOR CINCBOWESPAC ACTION 23 F-01 24 COMICH INFO CNO CINCPAC COM 3RD FLEET, MACARTHUR) F-02 25 26 F-05 SIGHT OF 22-23 CATS STRAFED AND SET FIRE TO 27 F-07 28 29 ENEMY DD ENROUTE WEWAK. ATTACKED ENEMY ID OR F-1 30 31 CL EAST OF MANUS WITH UNOBSERVED RESULTS. LAST F-2 32 F-20 33 NIGHT PT'S DESTROYED 3 TROOP LADEN BARGES EST F-3 34 35 OF KAR KAR. 1 CARGE WEST OF SAIDOR. ECHELON OF F-30 86 F-31 37 4 LST'S 2 DD'S ENROUTE SUDEST FROM GLOUCESTER. as F-32 39 ANOTHER OF 4 LST'S 3 DD'S ON REVERSE COURSE. F-33 40 41 7-34 42 F-4 43 COMING ACT 44 FX01 45 OP-33 16 20G FX30 45 47 FX37 48 DECLASSIFIED 49 FX40 E. O. 11652, Sec. (E) and or do 50 OSD letter, May 1, 19750-00 81 52 By DBS Date VOID Make original only Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) MAY 21 1973 OPNAY-NCR-15 240725 3as Somespace DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT for CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon To: WAR 0841 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 23 January 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, COMGEN Havaiian Dept, COMGRN USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, CG AMMISCA and CG AMMDEL 0841. Report of ope ations SOWES- PAC area period 1300Z/21 to 13002/22 signed MacArthur. New Ireland: Attacking aircraft report nil anti aircraft fire Borpop Airdrome. New Hanover: Destroyer and 4 merchant ships reported 60 miles North West course 150 degrees night January 21. Rooke Island: Enemy reported evacuated leaving equip- ment. New Guinea: Wevak: Four merchant vessels (3 small) indicated in area night January 21. Rai Coast: Enemy submarine sighted North Weber Point; parachutes sighted near Lepsius Point. Halmahera: Kaoe Bay: Catalinas report 2 large 4 medium 3 emall vessels in bay night January 21 CM-IN-15207 (23 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(R) and 6(D) or (8) OSD letter, May 4 1972 3as Somespac By DBS WAY 21 1973 COPY No.59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Fromt GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon Page -2- To: WAR (Other addressees listed OD page 1) No. 0841 23 January 1944 Soembar Ovingapoe: Photographs January 21 show 3 new revet- ments near runway, 15 barges 1 coastal vessel in vicinity End of Part 1. Part 2. Northeastern Area Land: Patrol activity only Arave Gloucester Sio and S.1dor. Ramu Valley: Australian troops advanced along water- shed from East and up ridges from South West, captured po- sitions commanding trail between Faria and Mintjim River valleys; onemy troops abendoned positions flet to north. Naval: PT's destroyed loaded barge Cape Dampier. Air. Enemy action: Two raids Arawe morning January 21, some casualties. PT boats probably destroyed 1 of 7 attack- ing aircraft Cadang Area night January 20. Operations January 22: (1) Reconnaissance B24's bombed 4 ship convoy 54 miles West New Hanover, 50 foot miss damaged 1 merchant vessel; bombed merchant vessel 15 miles East Wewak. (2) Night Catalinas strafed stationary 1500 ton freighter 55 below Best Wewak. CM-IN-15207 (23 Jan 44) E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Bec. 1(B) and B(D) of (6) OSD letter, May % 1978 By DBS Date MAY 59 21 1975 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon Page -3- To: WAR (Other addressees listed on page 1) No. 0841 23 January 1944 (3) Eleven B25's attacked Lorengaur shipping and shore area, sank 2500 ton freighter transport, 500 ton cargo vessel number barges, destroyed jetty, killed approximately 125 enemy. (4) Sixteen B25's bombed and strafed beached barges and Iboki plantation Rein Bay. (5) Four RAAF A20's, 4 P39's on search missions destroyed 1 barge Cape Dampier, 1 Willaumes Peninsula, damaged barges Rein Bay and Itne River. (6) Twelve A20's bombed and strafed Rein Bay area. (7) Twenty seven RAAF Beauforts bombed dumps Amgen River, started fires, bombing excellent. (8) Two night P38's strafed and sunk fuel laden sea truck off Condor Point. (9) Seven B25's bombed and strafed Coast Cape Gourdon to Cape Croisilles, destroyed 6 bridges 1 barge hit villáges. (10) Seven B25's bombed plantation area South Maifng January 21. (11) Twelve RAAF Vengeances bombed bridges Yaula Road, 7 escorting P40's strafed villages. (12) Four P39's strafed supply dumps Ermia Plan- tation and enemy parties along coast. CM-IN-15207 (23 Jan44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Bec. S(E) and 8(D) of (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 S 59 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon Page -4- To: WAR (Other addressees listed on page 1) No. 0841 23 January 1944 Northwestern Area. Air. Operations: (13) RAAF P40 destroyed enemy bomber 30 miles South Cape Valsch. (14) Nine RAAP Beaufighters destroyed 3 coastal vessels North Coast Timor, also strafed villages. SOUPAC Forces. Naval: LCM gunboat shelled Mamageta village South West coast Bougainville. Air. Operations January 21: (15) Two Venturas bombed and strafed reported radio station West Coast Choiseul, 6 P39's strafed Kara and Kahili, 3 Avengera bombed bivouace South Monoitu Mission; light bombers turned back from Rabaul by weather dropped 38 tons of bombs on Kara runvay and gun positions; B24 bombed Bonis. (16) Thirty eight B24's bombed Borpop Airdrome, hits scored on revetments and gun positions. (17) Five B 24's harassed Rabaul night January 20, started 5 large fires town area; add extra fighter shot down Rabaul January 20 Part 3. Weather. Broken middle cloud with conditions mainly favourable throughout the area except for unsettled weather and scattered showers over New Brithin through Vitiax Strait and Huon Peninsula; North Western area meinly favour- able with average visibility but patches of thick weather over Eastern Arafura Sea and Arnhem land. CM-IN-15207 (23 Jan 44) E 0. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) of (5) OSD letter, May L 1972 By DBS Date, MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 Bale SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon Page -5- To: WAR (Other addressees listed on page 1) No. 0841 23 January 1944 Air. (1) Four 1000 lb, 4 500 1b 1/10 second delay bombs dropped convoy from 1500 feet; 2 1000 1b 4 500 1b 1/10 delay bombs dropped convoy from 1500 feet; 2 100 lb, 4 500 lb 1/10 second delay bombs dropped Wewak area from 2000 feet. (2) No details received. (3) Twenty one 1000 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 25,000 rounds 50 cali- bre, 4300 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (4) Fifty three by 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bomba dropped from 500 to 50 feet, 30,700 rounds 50, 4700 rounds 30 calibre fired. (5) Eight 250 1b, 3 100 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay bomba dropped from 1000 feet and under, 500 rounds 50, 800 rounds 30 calibre fired by A20's. (6) Nineteen by 300 1b, 30 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bomba dropped from 400 feet and under, 18,800 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (7) Forty six by 500 1b, 92 by 250 1b instantane- ous rod extension fuse general purpose bombs dropped from 10,000 feet. (8) No details. (9) One hundred and fifty four 100 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 200 to 100 feet, CM-IN-15207 (23 Jan 44) DECLASSIFED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(R) and 6(D) or (6) OSD letter, May 4'1972 By DBS Data MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ SWPA Rear Echelon Page -6- To: WAR (Other addressess listed on page 2) No. 0841 23 January 1944 16,300 rounde 50, 7400 rounds 30 caltbre fired in strafing; intense light inaccurate anti aircraft fire Uligan. (10) Fifty 300 lb instantaneous demolition, 6 100 1b 1/10 second delay bombs dropped from 9000 to 8400 feet. (11) No details Vengeances, 4900 rounds 50 calibre fired by P40's. (12) No details. (13) Twelve hundred rounds 50 calibre fired in combat. (14) Two thousand 2 hundred rounds 20 MM, 5500 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light anti aircraft fire from villages. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAF Adm. KING Gen. VANDEGRAFT CC/S (Capt, Royal, USN) Field Marshall DILL WHITE HOUSE LOG CM-IN-15207 (23 Jan 44) 1822z lbw E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May L 1972 By DBS Date, MAY 21.1973 59 COPY No. THE MAXING OF AN EXAL. COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356. Sec 3.4 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To : Fort Shafter No COMOENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # War C 812 22 January 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Dept CG Havaiian Dept CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL 0812. Operations report SOWESPAC area period 13002/20 to 13002/21 signed MacArthur. Kavieng: Photographs Panapet January 20 show run- vay serviceable, nil aircraft Rebaul: 50/60 fighters re- ported airborne by attacking SOUPAC aircraft midday January 20. New Guinea: Aitape: 4 vessels indicated in area night January 20. Hansa Bay: Medium vessel reported in bay by fighter patrol morning January 21. Saidor area: Main body of enemy reported in vicinity Gause Point. End of part one. Part 2. Northeastern area. Land, Cape Gloucester: Patrol reached Natamo, no opposition, captured large quantities stores. Air. Operations January 21: (1) Patrolling night B24 sank 7000 ton tanker CM-IN-14491 (22 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 8(R) and 6(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Date 300 Socverjac MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWFA Page 2 To : Yar (other addressess listed on page 1) No. 0812 22 January 1944 east Wevak with direct hit and near miss; second B24 sank 3000 ton freighter 47 miles south east Lorengau with two direct hits; during day B24 bombed and destroyed control tower Cape Hoskins, (2) Two RAF, Beaufighters straied barge and pov- er boat north tip Willaumex Peninsula; 2 RAAP A20's boaibea Lindonhafen; 2 Beaufighters strafed barge Henry Re1d Bay. (3) Two P39's damaged 4. barges Cape Haoult, 16 P47's straffed coastal area. (4) Thirty one RAAF Beauforts covered by P40's and Spitfires bombed enemy bivouac area Amgen River (esst Gasmata), cloud obsured results. (5) Night B24 harassed Honsa Bay area, 2 night fighters ineffectively intercepted. (6) Eleven P40's strafed villages along coant north Alexishefen, destroyed 6 boats. (7) Six B25's bombed Erima Plantation, bombing graded excellent. (8) Tventy two P40's dive bombed Shaggy Ridge area, results reported excellent. (9) Six P39's strafed enemy troops along Tai coast, destroyed bost Gali, started fires in supply dumps Erima plantation. (10) Twenty five A20's bombed and strafed known enemy bivouace Gali and Sareuak Bay, destroyed Roinoi village, caused large explosion. CM-IN-14491 (22 Jan 44) E. o, DECLASSIFIED 11652 Sec. S(10) and s(D) or (B) OSD letter, May , MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHO SWPA To : War (Other addressees listed on page 1) Page 3 No. C812 22 January 1944 Northwestern area. Air. Operations: (11) Two patrolling P24's bombed Waingapoe, caused large fires. (12) Night RAAF Catalinas strafed and caused large explosion Lolobata (Halmabera) also strafed small ship south east Tanjong Boleo. SOUPAC Forces. Land: Forty five enemy killed near Torokina River forks area, patrol contacted enemy-north east Torokina river mouth. Naval: PT's sank 2 barges Choiseul Bay night January 19; next night Allied Destroyers sank gunboat and 5 barges, ran two others aground Bougainville Strait, also bombarded enemy positions Jaba river area. Air: Enemy action night January 19: One aircraft bombed and destroyed 2 B25's Treasury Island; light raid Torokina. Operations January 20: (13) Two Squadrons B24's bombed targets southern Bougainville; patrolling B24's bombed Siposia Island, strafed Choiseul Bay, also bombed supply dump west Cape Choiseul. (14) Five night B24's harassed Rabaul, started large fires town area. (15) Eighteen B25's attacked Vunakanau airdrome, caused large fires north vest runway, strafed 3 grounded fighters and cargo vessel; Bombers and escorting fighters shot down 15 CM-IN-14491 (22 Jan 44) & O. DECLASSIRED 11662 Sec. 1(2) and 5(D) of (B) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 Date MAY 21 1973 By DBS 45 S COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY or THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon CHQ SWPA Page alle To: War (other listed on page 1) E.o. 0812 22 January 1944 sure and 3 probables of 60 intercepting aircraft; is Allied Fighters 2 B25's lost (2 bombor crew safe). Part 3. Weather. Scattered Thunderstorms over coastal regions during afternoon end thick veather through Vities Strait; deteriorating as night over seas and ranges with /TO- quent thunderstorms; northwestern area much frontal notivity with frequent rain areas causing poor visibility, Air. (1) Two 1000 lb, 4 500 lb 1/10 second delay de- molition bonibe dropped from 1500 foot on tanker; modorate light insccurate anti aircraft fire: 2 1000. 1b, 500 1b 1/10 second delay demolition bombs dropped on freightor; slight light insccurate anti aircraft fire: 2 1000 1b instantepeous demolition bombs dropped from 7,500 feet Cape Hoskins; 400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (2) 800 rounds 20 MM, 2500 rounds 30 calibre fired Willaumex Peninsula from 40 foot, 6 250 1b a to 11 seconda de- lay demolition bombs dropped by A20's; 100 rounds 30 calibre, 100 rounds 20 MM fired from 40 feet Herry Reid Bay. (3) No details received. (4) 2 1000 1b, 56 500 10, 116 250. 1b general purpose Instantaneous rod extension fuze bombs dropped from 11,000 feet. (5) 40 100 1b instantaneous demolition bombs, 22 123 1b fragmentation clusters, 1 bundle incendiaries, 150 beer bottles end pieces lead piping dropped from 14,000 to 500 feet, coder- ate modium inscourate anti aircraft fire. CM-IN-14491 (22 Jan 44) E O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) of (By OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -5- To: WAR (Other addressees listed on page 1) No. C812 22 January 1944 (6) No details received. (7) 48 300 1b instantaneous demolition bombs deopped from 7,500 feet. (8) 22 500 lb instantaneous demolition bomba dropped in dive bombing attack. (9) No details received. (10) 49 500 1b, 47 250 lb, 1 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude: 47,800 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (11) 12 500 1b general purpose bombs dropped from 10,000 feet. (12) 600 rounds 50, 400 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight heavy anti aircraft fire Wasile Bay, slight light Kaos. No 31g ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAF White House Field Marshall Dill 00/5 (Capt. Royal, USN) Adm. King Gen. Vandegrift LOG CM-IN-14491 (22 Jan 44) 17562 -DECLASSIFIED jm E. O. 11652 Sec. (E) and 6(D) of (B) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS Date 45 S. COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 33 or Sec 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE OPERATIONAL PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To I Ft Shafter, T.H. - No # COMGENSOPAC - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # War - C 753 21st January 1944 Report of operations SOWESPAC area period 13002/19 to 1300Z/20-signed MacArthur. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War nept., CG Havaiian Dept., CG USAPISUA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMISCA and AMMDEL C 753. New Ranover: Three small merchant vessels sight- ad off Cape Matanalem midday January 20. New Britain: Two barges sighted under tov by launch Jacquinot Bay area. New Guinea: Hollandia: Photographs midday January 19 show two 1500 ton vessels in harbour. Wevak Area: Sea truck sighted off Aitape, 1 9,000 ton transport, 2 medium freighters with escorting destroyer and gunboat reported 65 miles North by West morning January 19; 6 night fighters reported by B24 on reconnaissance night January 19. Karkar Island: Five barges or boats reported in vicinity by B24 night January 20. Northwestern Area: Ambon: Photographs January 20 show 36 (loatplanes E'O. 11652 Bec. (B) and of 6 08D letter, May 4 1978 MAY 2.1.1973 CM-IN-13741 (21 Jan 44) By DBS 3 as Sowespar COPY No. 45 VTHE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE is FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E 12356 Sec 3.3 or Sec 34 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon OHQ SWPA Page 2. To : War - C 753 (All other addresses listed page 1) 21st January 1944 Halong, one 3800, one 1200 ton freighter transport, 3 sea trucks, 106 barges and small craft in harbour, 13 fighters, 12 twin engined planes Laha Airdrome, 2 new strips, 1 apparently serviceable Namlea. Ceram: Three vessels reported vicinity Amahai night January 19. Macassar Strait: Large tanker reported heading Balikpapan afternoon January 19. Part 2. Northeastern Area. Arawe, Land: Patrols report no enemy within 1500 yards MLR (North end Amalut plantation). Cape Gloucester: Inland patrols report contact with small enemy parties. PosT Sio Slind Finschhafen: Ninth Australian Division continues. relieved by 5th Australian Division January 20; patrolling Saidor: Patrol contacted enemy group Gabumi (11 wiles South West Saidor). Ramu Valley: 8th Australian Brigade, 7th Division, in contact with withdrawing enemy 2 miles East Kankiryo (on divide between Mintjim and Faria Rivers). Naval: PT's sand 4 large troop laden barges North Alexishafen night January 18th. Air. Operations January 19th: E O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(B) and 6(D) or any OSD letter, May 1 1973 MAY 211973 CM-IN-13741 (21 Jan 44) By DBS Date, COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3. To : War - 0.753 (All other addresses listed page 1) 21st January 1944 (1) Patrolling B24's bombed freighter transport 50 miles West New Hanover; bombed large transport Forth Wevak, strafed small craft off Manus Island. (2) Further 6 B24's bombed Boram gun positions started large fire, graded excellent. (3) Single B24 harassed Boram Area early morning. (4) Further 7 B25's supported ground forces upper Paria River. Operations January 20th: (5) Patrolling B24 bombed freighter Tingvon Island (West New Hanover) strafed another vessel in area; bombed and damaged sea truck North West Gitape. (6) Twenty-two A20's bombed and strafed coastal villages from Borgen Bay to Rein Bay and enemy positions Didmop village area. (7) Two RAAF Beaufighters strafed barge Montague harbour, 2 A20's bombed Lindenhafen, 3 A20's bombed barge hideout Cape Dampier. (8) Eighteen RAAF P40's bombed strafed and sank barge East Cape Archway. (9) 37 B25's, 13 RAAF P40's made surprise attack Fansa Bay, bombed and heavily strafed area, sunk 20 barges, damaged number trucks, silenced gun positions, caused large fires and explosions, damaged 2 fighters Nubia runvay. DECLASSIFIED E o. 11652, Bec. S(R) and 5(D) or (S) OSD letter, May, 4 1972 CM-IN-13741 (21 Jan 44) D.MAY 21 1973 By DBS 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec 34 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4. To # War (All other addresses listed page 1) 21st January 1944 (10) Sixty-two B25's, 12 RAAF Vengeances, 19 RAAF P40's bombed and throughly strafed enemy positions on Shaggy Ridge and Mankiryo 34ddle, destroyed strong enemy posts, ground forces report good results. (11) Two P39'a strafed enemy parties moving vest along Rai coast. Northwestern Area. Air. Operations: (12) Twenty-eight B24's to attack Ambon shipping midday January 19th: 3 failed take off, 5 returned due mechanical trouble, 4 salvoed bombs, 14 bombed targets, nil hits shipping, started fires barracks area; of 15 enemy fighters intercepting bombers destroyed 5, probably destroyed 1, damaged 2; 2 B24's missing. Solomons. SOUPAC forces. Land: Patrol reached North bank Laruma River; 132nd Infantry extended lines West bank Torokina River; Battalion 164 Infantry met strong oppositions Torokina River forks area; artillery shelled enemy defenses. Naval: PT attacked enemy positions Jaba River; des- troyers bombarded Ramandata (Buka passage); LCM gunboat shelled Aftara. Air. Operations January 19th: E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) of (ii) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 CM-IN-13741 (21 Jan 44) Date MAY 21 1973 By DBS 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5. To : War (All other addresses listed page 1) 21st January 1944 (13) Reconnaissance aircraft bombed and strafed barge and Siposia Island, Choiseul Bay, and barge South Cape Saint George; 17 Dauntless bombed Maririci River bridge and adjacent bivouse areas Empress Augusta Bay; B24 bombed barges North Central coast New Ireland. (14) Five B24's harassed Lakunai and Vunakanau Airdromes night January 18; daylight strikes cancelled due weather. Part 3. Weather. Northeastern area: Deep cloud over inland regions in afternoon with associated heavy showers, deep oloud over sea at night, deep lov oloud north coast New Britain throughout period; vell broken cloud over Northwestern area. Air. (1) 2 1,000 1b 1/10th second delay bombs dropped New Hanover, 2 1,000 AO demolition bombs dropped Wowak, 1,000 rounds fired in strafing. (2) 30 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 19,400 feet; moderate to intense heavy anti-aircraft fire. (3) 10 100 1b instantaneous demolition bombs, 44 rifle grenades dropped from 11,400 feet. (4) 21 1,000 1b 1/10th second delay bombs dropped from 9,000 to 8400 feet. R 0. DECLASSIFIED 11682 Bec. S(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1 1978 MAY 211973 CM-IN-13741 (21 Jan 44) Date By DBS COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASCIFIEO SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 6. To : War (All other addresses listed page 1) 21st January 1944 (5) 2 1,000 1b 1/10th second delay torpex bombs dropped Tingvon Island from 6,700 feet, 2 1,000, 4 500 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped Aitape from 1500 feet. (6) 86 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 26,500 rounds fired in strafing. (7) 400 rounds 20 MM, 1500 rounds 30 calibre fired by Beaufighters, 4 250 1b, 6 100 1b demolition bombs dropped Lindenhafen, 9 250 lb demolition bombs Cape Dampier from 200 feet and under. (8) 1,000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (9) 125 500 lb, 71 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 46,500 rounds 50 calibre, 12,700 rounds 30 calibre fired in straf- ing by B25's, 12,000 rounds 50 calibre fired by P40's; slight light and heavy, moderate medium anti- aircraft fire. (10) 81 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8,000 feet, 134 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 200 feet and under by B25's, 19 500 1b instantaneous demolition by P40's from minimum altitude, 22 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay bomba by Vengeance in dives from 10,000 to 200 feet; 31,000 rounds 50, 1200 rounds 30 calibre, 31 rounds 75 MM fired by B25's. (11) No details received. E. O. DECLASSIFIED 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 1972 5(D) or (E) CM-IN-13741 (21 Jan 44) ORD letter, May 1, MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date, 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 7. To # War (All other addresses listed page 1) 21st January 1944 (12) 426 500 1b demolition bombs dropped from 16,000 to 12,500 feet, 54 jettisoned, 27 returned to base, 9800 rounds 50 calibre fired in combat; moderate modium and heavy accurate anti-aircraft fire Halong, intense heavy accurate Ambon; inter- cepting fighter unsuccessfully dropped aerial bombs. No 31g ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF FIELD MARSHAL DILL WHITE HOUSE) CC/B (CAPT. ROYAL, USN) ADM. KING GEN. VANDEGRIFT LOG CM-IN-13741 (21 Jan 44) 1618z ong DECLASSIFIED g. O. 11652, Sec. S(R) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASCIFIED SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR 0723 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 20 January 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Dept, CG Havaiian Dept, CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMISCA, AMMDEL 0723. Report of operations SOWESPAC Area. 13002/18 to 13002 19 signed MacArthur. / Kahili: runvay reported serviceable 2400 feet, repaired since January 9. Mussau Island: Enomy submarine sighted and attacked 70 miles South West Night January 18 Kavieng: Catalina on patrol 18. reported 2 large 4 medium cargo vessels night January Admiralty Islands: Momote Airdrome at Lorengau re- ported much improved by reconnaissance Catalina. New Britain: Enemy submarines reported vicinity Rooke and Unea Islands. Nov Guinea: Hollandia: 2 small rerchant vessels sighted in harbour midday January 19. Hansa Bay: Thirty barges reported in bay by B24's January 18, 15 barges Uligan Harbour. CM-IN-13020 (20 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E.O. 11652, Sec. 1(E) and 8(D) or (8) OBD letter, May 1, 1972 Sowespac By DBS MAY 2.1 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN S9 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon, GHQ SWPA Page -2- To: WAR C723 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 20 January 1944 Part 2 Northeastern Area. Land. Nil action Arave or Cape Cloucester, mopping up continues Sio Area, nil patrol contacts Saidor. Air. Enemy action: Light raid Saidor and Arave. Operations January 18: (1) Two P39's strafed 2 barges Rein Bay, left 1 burning, also strafed 6 enemy life boats off Pulie River (Arave). (2) Further 6 ensmy aircraft shot down, 2 others probably destroyed over Wowak by 35 P38's. (3) Two P38's strafed Alexishafen airdrome night January 17, hit 2 probably unserviceable bombers, left building afire. (4) Further 16 B25's bombed and strafed enemy positions Shaggy Ridge Slope Faria River area. (5) Two P39's strafed Gali Village, barges and suspected enemy hidsouts along Rai Coast. Operations January 19: (6) Night B24 bombed and possibly destroyed sub- marine South West Mussau Island. CM-IN-13020 (20 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. o. 11652, Bec. B(R) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Date MAY 211973 S COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 5 SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -3- To: WAR 0723 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 20 January 1944 (7) Night Catalinas sank freighter (3000 tons) North Hansa Bay, 5000 ton ammunition ship 63 miles East Lorengau, 2,000 ton vessel Seevdler Harbour (Lorengau); also bombed Momote airdrome. (8) Two P39's sank 1 barge left another burning Rottock Bay. (9) Forty eight B24's bombed anti aircraft gun positions Boram airdrome, silenced 3, caused number explosions and large fires, 3/4 grounded aircraft de- stroyed. (10) Fifty three B25's bombed and strafed enemy positions North Slope Shaggy Ridge (left side upper Faria River) bombing reported excellent and very succ- essful; 12 RAAF Vengeances dive bombed same area. (11) Four P39's strafed Gali, barges and troops along coast. Solomons. SOUPAC Forces. Air. Operations January 18: (12) Venturas bombed and strafed enemy outpost Central West Coast Choiseul Island, B24 bombed Morgusaia Island, started large fire. (13) Thirty four B25's hombed and heavily strafed from low level Tobera airdrome, destroyed 1 aircraft on ground hit 12 others, 21 of at least 30 intercepting Fighters destroyed; one other probably destroyed, 1 P38, 1 B25 lost. CM-IN-13020 (20 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(R) and B(D) of (H) OSD letter, May 53873 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -4- To: WAR 0723 Ft Shafter No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # COMGENSOPAC No # 20 January 1944 Part 3. Weather. Rather thick weather continued, over New Britain Vitiax Strait Huon Peninsula and Northern Solomon Sea, elsewhere scattered cloud but conditions deteriorated during late hours; Northvestern Area mainly favourable except at night. Air. (1) No details received. (2) Eleven hundred and forty nine rounds 20 MM, 5,600 rounds 50 calibre fired in combat. (3) Four hundred rounds 50 calibre fired from minimum altitude; intense light inaccurate anti air- craft fire. (4) Twenty one by 1,000 1b 1/10th second delay bombs dropped from 7000 feet, 20 by 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay, 16 by 500 1b 12 to 18 hours delay de- molition bombs dropped from 1500 to 200 feet; 3700 rounds 50,700 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (5) No details received. (6) Four by 500 1b, 2 by 1000 1b 1/10th second delay demolition boubs dropped from 1500 feet; moderate light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (7) No details received. DECLASSIFIED E. O, 11652, Bec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) CM-IN-13020 (20 Jan 44) OSD letter, May , 1972 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 DECLASSIFIED 5.0.12256 See 34 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From:- Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -5- To: WAR 0723 Ft Shafter No # Chungking No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # 20 January 1944 (8) No details received. (9) Two hundred and seventy two by 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 20,200 to 18,000 feet; moderate to intense medium and heavy accurate to inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (10) Sixty three by 1,000 1b instantaneous de- molition bombs dropped from 10,000 to 8,000 feet, 66 by 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay, 62 by 500 1b 12 to 18 hours delay bombs dropped from 100 feet; 42 rounds 75 MM, 36,000 rounds 50, 3,100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing) slight to moderate light insccurate anti aircraft fire; 24 by 500 1b demolition bombs dropped by Vengeances from 9,000 feet; 2,300 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (11) No details received. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF Gen. Vangegrift CC/S Capt. Royal, USN Adm. King Field Marahal , Dill White House bog CM-IN-13020 (20 Jan 44) 1436z ov DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Bec. I(E) and 8(D) or (8) OSD letter, May MAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY Date No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 DECLASSIFIED NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 1 FROM CINCSWPA 2 PPPPPP 3 RELEASED BY 20 JAN 1944 FOR ACTION COMINCH 4 ROUTINE 5 DATE DEFERRED 6 7 TOR CODEROOM 1138 I 9 DECODED BY BENNETT CNO PPPPP 10 PARAPHRASED INFORMATION CINCPAC 11 ROUTINE BY MIHALAK CON3RD FLT 12 DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY RODNEY 14 15 ONLESS CTHERWILLE INDICATED THIS DESPATOR WILL st. TRANSMITTES WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE AND 43 ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 200635 NCR 8373 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTSOING DISPATEMENTS PLEASE LEAVE HOST ONE INCH CLEAR IPREE 1000 TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 (COM 7THFLT PASSES FOR CINSWPA FOR ACTION TO COMINCH 23 F-01 INFO CNO CINCPAC CONGRD FLEET) 24 11-02 # + OF 7-05 NEAR CAPE CROISILDES NEW GUINEA PT'S SANK 4 BARGES 27 CONTAINING ABOUT 40 TROOPS EACH EXTERMINATING ALL F-07 28 29 F-1 TROOPS UPON REFUSAL SURRENDER NIGHT 18-19. SAME 30 NIGHT CATALINAS SANK 3 SHIPS 1 5,000 TCN AMMUNT- F-2 at 33 F-20 TION SHIP EXPLODED DISINTEGRATED FROM 1. SURE 2 33 F-3 34 PROBABLE HITS EAST OF ADMIRALTY ISLAND, 2ND WAS is F-30 36 SMALL AK ALSO BLEW UP NEAR HANSA BAY. 3RD SMALL 37 AK ENTERING HARBOR ADMIRALTY GROUP 5 LST'S 4 DD'S F-31 38 F-32 39 RETURNING FROM SAIDOR PASSED 5 LST 3 DD LAST NIGHT HEADING FOR SAIDOR TO ARRIVE TOMORROW MORN- F-33 40 41 F-34 a ING. 4 LCT'S MADE DARK CROSSING TO CRET:N FROM ARAWE LAST NIGHT. F-4 = 44 MAC ARTHUR FI01 & FI30 46 47 FX37 48 COMINCH ACT 49 FX40 50 OP #3 200 DECLASSIFIED IG-00 51 52 E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) (8) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 Make original aniy, Deliver is Code Watch Officer in person, (See Art. TO (1) NAVREGS) 200635 300 Samespac DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET s WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon CHO SWPA To: War c682 Ft Shafter No # COMOENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No 19 January 1944 0682. Operations report SOUWESPAC area period 1300z/17 to 13002/18 signed MecArthur. To Chief of Staff WarDept CG Havaiian Dept CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC to AMMDEL AMMISCA. New Hanover: large tanker medium freighter and escort vessel sighted heading north vest midday January 18. New Ireland: large merchant vessel 4 possible des- troyers reported off west coast heading Rabsul night Jan- uary 16. New Britain: Rabaul: second phase interpretation photographs January 14 gives 82 fighters 16 dive bombers on Lakunsi; 5 vessels including 2 two thousand ton cargo ships reported off Cape Pomas night January 17. Wewak: 1 three thousand ton vessel with escort sighted heading north east 40 miles north west early morning January 18. Huon Peninsula: Rai coast: signs reported barge landing place mouth Timee river; PT boats report no barge contacts night January 17. Datch New Guines: 5 float planes diffidently at- tacked 4 B-24's 20 miles south west Manokwari, Nabire run- vay reported serviceable, nil aircraft, surfacing revet- ments continuing. CM-IN-12580 (19 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED (8) House E. O. 11652 Sec. BOD and 5(D) or OSD latter, May 4 1973 300 Somespac Date MAY/R 1973 By DBS COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356 Sec or 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -2- From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C682 Pt Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 19 January 1944 Boeroe Island: large merchant vessel with destroyer reported to south west course 245 degrees morning January 17. North Eastern Area. Land. Arave: New outpost line formed, enemy pockets cleared, artillery shelled Umtingalu. Cape Gloucester: enemy unsuccessfully attacked Hill 660 pre dawn January 16, 126 enemy killed. Sio: patrolling and mopping up continues; large amount enemy supplies discovered. Air. Enemy action: 2 light raids Arawe, 1 Cape Gloucester. Operations January 17: (1) B-24 scored near miss on 1,500 ton freighter 83 miles east Lorengau, vessel left stationary and burning. (2) Night B-24 bombed merchant vessel 40 miles north vest Wevak. a (3) Further 12 B-24's bombed Hansk Bay, Started fires. (4) Two P'38's strafed machine gun positions Alexishafen January 16, silenced seven, 1 P-38 lost. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-12580 (19 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(F) and 5(D) or (R) OSD letter, May % 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ACCIFIES SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -3- From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War c682 Ft Shafter No # COMOENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 19 Jenuary 1944 (5) 2 P-39's, 2 Boomerangs strafed enemy groups along Rai Coast, destroyed one damaged another of 2 barges Melanua Harbour. (6) 9 B-25's bombed Gali, destroyed number huts. Operations January 18: (7) Reconnaissance B-24's scored direct hits on 2000 ton freighter off Cape Pomas, vessel exploded. (8) Night B-24 attacked and damaged merchant vessel north Wevak. (9) B-24 scored 50 foot miss on tanker in 3 ship convoy west New Hanover. (10) P-47's destroyed 2 of 10 enemy fighters engaged over Wewak; P-38's destroyed 6 of 50/60 enemy fighters over area; 3 P-38's lost. (11) Forty B-24's bombed gun positions Hansa Bay Area, bombs covered target causing explosions, grading ex- cellent. (12) Thirty eight B-25's in direct support ground forces bombed and heavily strafed enemy positions headwaters Faria River (9 miles north Dumpu) started small fires, bomh- graded excellent; 7 other B-25's bombed and strafed transp rt DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-12580 (19 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -4- From: Rear Echelon OHQ SWPA To: War C682 Ft Shafter No # COMOENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 19 January 1944 area near Yaula, caused large explosion. North western area, Air operations: (13) 4 B-24's bombed town Banda island destroyed 10 buildings. (14) 4 Dutch B-25's bombed Laha Airdrome before dawn, caused explosion and fire visible 30 miles. Solomons. 30UPAC Forces. Land: Combat patrol supported by artillery crossed Torokina River. dug in east lagoon. Air. Enemy action: flight enemy siroraft bombed Torokina area night January 16 caused slight damage few casualties. Operations January 17: (15) Night searcher dropped depth charges Choiseul Bay near boat and small dry dook, 3 Avengers bombed bridge Empress Augusta Bay, (16) Eighteen Avengers 24 Dauntless 70 fighters at- tacked Rabaul shipping mid afternoon scored 17 direct hits 13 damaging near misses on 8 cargo vessels, 3 blew up and sank, 2 were left burning and sinking, 3 severely damaged. Of minimum 100 enemy fighters intercepting, 18 shot down 15 probably destroyed; 10 allied fighters 2 bombers lost. (17) 6 B-24's bombed Rabaul night January 17, started large fires town area. CM-IN-12580 (19 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E 0. 11652, Sec. B(R) and 6(D) or (B) OSD letter. May 4 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASCIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -5- From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 682 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 19 January 1944 (18) Reconnaissence aircraft bombed submarine Saint Georges Channel, sank barge south Green Island, bombed village north Borpop airdrome destroyed buildings. Weather. Broken high and middle cloud throughout area, thick weather over Vitias Ptrait Huon Peninsula and New Britain extending into Solomon Sea, many thunderstorms with heavy rain at night; north vestern area scattered mid- dle oloud with good visibility but deteriorated at night. Air. (1) 2 1000 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped from 8,500 feet; 2000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; slight medium and light inscourate anti air- craft fire, (2) 2 by 1000 1b, 2 by 500 1b demolition bombs dropped from 2000 feet, 2 by 500 1b bombs jettisoned in sea due rack failure; moderate light insccurate anti airoraft fire from merchant vessel and escort. (3) 82 by 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 18,600 to 16,000 feet; slight to moderate med- 1um and heavy mostly inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (4) 1,100 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from sinimum altitude; intense light accurate and inscourate anti airoraft fire. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-12580 (19 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 100 and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May , 1973 By DBS Data MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 45 DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -6- From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War 0682 Ft Shafter No # COMOENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 19 January 1944 (5) 1000 rounds 30 calibre fired by Boomerangs, no details P-39's. (6) 40 by 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 10,600 rounds 50 cali- bre, 1,100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (7) 2 by 1000 1b, 4 by 500 1b demolition 1/10th sec- and delay bombs dropped from 1500 feet. (8) 6 by 100 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 10,000 feet. (9) 2 by 1000 1b 1/10th second delay bombs dropped from 10,000 feet; slight medium insocurate anti aircraft fire. (10) 575 rounds 20 MM, 6,300 rounds 50 calibre fired in combat by P-38's, no details received P-47's. (11) 253 by 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 18,900 to 16,800 feet; slight to moderate medium and heavy mostly inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (12) 42 by 1000 1b 1/10th second delay bombs dropped from 7000 feet, 63 by 500 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay, 33 by 500 1b 12 to 18 hours delay demolition bombs dropped from 500 feet to minimum altitude; 62 rounds 75MM, 23,800 rounds DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-12580 (19 Jan 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter. May 4, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 12356 Sea SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE -7- From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C682 Ft Shafter No # COMGENSOPAC No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 19 January 1944 50 calibre, 2,300 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light inscourate anti aircraft fire; 21 by 1000 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped Yaula from 7,500 feet, 24 by 500 lb general purpose demolition in- stantaneous bombs dropped from 8000 feet; 2000 rounds 50 calibre fired in combat. (14) 16 clusters fragmentation bombs, 4 by 250 1b incendiaries dropped from 9,500 to 6,500 feet, 4 clusters fragmentation bombs hung up and returned, No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CGAAF White House Field Marshal Dill OC/S (Capt. Royal USN) Adm King Gen Vandegrift LOG CM-IN-12580 (19 Jan 44) 23342 gb BECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Bec. 2(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May % 1972 By DBS MAY 2 1 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 45 DECLASSIFIED NAVAL MESSAGE MAYY DEPARTME DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE I FROM CINC SWPA (COM 7TH FLT) 2 PRIORITY 3 COMINCH PPPPPPPPP RELEASED BY FOR ACTION ROUTINE 5 DATE 19 JAN 1944 DEFERRED 6. 7 TOR CODEROOM 191215 * 9 DECODED BY NILES CNO PRIORITY 10 INFORMATION CINCPAC PPPPPPPPP 11 PARAPHRASEOZUND COM 3RD FLT ROUTINE 12 DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY REEGAN 14 15 SWLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL BE TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE AND AS ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 17 190531 NCR 7783 IS 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 OR ONTGOINE DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT DME INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 23 F-01 24 (COM 7TH FLEET PASSING FOR CINC SWPA ACTION COMINGH INFO CHO CHICPAC COM 3RD FLEET) F-02 25 26 F-05 27 4 DD'S ESCORTED 5 LST'S TO SAIDOR ARRIVING THIS F-07 28 29 WORRING. 4 LCT'S CRO3SED TO ARABE WITH MINOR 7-1 30 F-2 31 ESCORTS FROM CRETIN LAST RIGHT. NIGHT CATALINA 22 F-20 33 SEARCHES NEGATIVE 17-13. PT'S HAD NOTHING TO F-3 34 35 REPORT LAST NIGHT. MAGARTHUR F-30 35 F-31 37 38 F-32 39 F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FX01 45 46 FX30 47 FX37 48 COVINCH CO ACT 49 FX40 50 FX37 OP03 31 16 39 DECLASSIFIED IG-00 51 E. 0. 11652, Sec. 7(B) and 5(D) or (6) 52 [VCNO OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date, MAY 211973 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer la person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS) OPNAY-NCR-18 190531 30s Sowerpar DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 Jan 19, 1944 Twenty-four Dive Bombers, 18 Torpedo Bombers and 70 Fighters hit Rabaul shipping at 1300 local time on the 17th. Eight Cargo Ships were anchored on the west side of Simpson Harbor. Of these: 3 large cargo ships blew up and sank 1 large cargo ship was left burning, listing with a hole at the water line. 1 seen sinking 1 suffered two direct hits 1 suffered three direct hits 1 reported burning as a result of a direct hit One hundred Jap fighters intercepted. Eighteen of these were shot down plus 15 probable. We lost 10 fighters, two dive bombers and one torpedo bomber. DECLASSIFIED E.O. 11652, Ben. 2(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May , 1972 300 Sowespac By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE OPERATIONAL PRIORITY From: Rear, Echelon GHQ SWPA To : War - C 644 Pt Shafter - No # COMGENSOPAC - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # 18th January 1944 Operations report SOUWESPAC Area period 13002/16 to 13002/17 signed MecArthur. To Chief of Staff War Dept, CG Havaiian Dept, CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC to AMNDEL AMMISCA fa GHQ SWPA New Zealand. Two medium merchant vessels, 3 other vessels sight- ed off west coast heading Rabaul night January 16. New Guinea: Wewak: 70% cover photographs January 17th show 90 fighters, 18 light bombers, 8 medium bombers on 4 air- dromes. Hansa Bay: Attacking aircraft January 17 report 1 sea truck, 20 barges in harbour, 1 bomber Avar strip, 12 fighters around Nubia airdrome; submarine strafed off Hatsfeldt harbour. Karkar Island: Air patrol reports numerous tents and possible gun positions on north vest point. Huon Penninsula: Enemy submarine contacted off Saidor morning January 16; 5 camouflaged barges between Weber and Gauss Points; vell used trail leading east from Melanua harbour; 20 barges sighted between Sio and Saidor early January 17. CM-IN-11737 (18 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E 0, 11652, Sec. 8(R) and 10% (R) 300 Sorvespac OSD letter, May , THE By DBS PateMAY 21.1977 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2. To I War - C 644 Ft Shafter - No # COMGENSOPAC - No # New Dolhi - No # Chungking - No # 18th January 1944 Part 2. North Eastern Area. Land. Arave: Forces with tank support cleared area for 1,000 yards in advance MLR, captured one 75 MM cannon number machine guns. All quiet Caps Gloucester/Sio/ Saidor areas. Naval: Destroyers shelled Gali troop concentrations caused fires and large explosion. PT's destroyed 3 barges between Arave and Gasmata. Air. Eneury action: Light raids on Arave and Cape Gloucester early morning January 17, some casualties latter locality. Operations January 16th: (1) 28 B25's bombed plantation area started fires, smoke obscured damage; bombing unsatisfactory to excellent. Operations January 17th: (2) Night B24 unsuccessfully attacked 5 ship con- voy off Central West coast New Ireland. (3) 30 RAAF Beauforts covered by Spitfires and P40's, bombed new camp area Amgen river (East Gasmata) CM-IN-11737 (18 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and B(D) or (8) OSD letter, May WAY 21 1973 By DBS COPY No. Data 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3. To I Was - 0 644 Ft Shafter - No # COMGENSOPAC - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # 18th January 1944 caused fires; bombing graded excellent. (4) 6 B25's bombed Nubia area pre dawn caused ex- plosions and large fire. (5) 27 B24's (2 others bombed Erima plantation) followed (4) attacked Nubia area, silenced anti- aircraft guns caused explosions, bombing graded poor to excellent. (6) 9 RAAF Vengeances, 12 RAAF P40's led by Boome- rangs supported ground forces, dive bombed and strafed enemy positions Faria river valley (upper Ramu). (7) 6 P39's strafed enemy troops cances and gun suplacements along Rai coast. Northwestern area. Air operations: (8) 8 RAAF Beaufighters harassed villages Tanimbar Islands sank boat bomted villages. Solomons. SOUPAC forces. Air. Enemy action: Treasury Island reports 2 enemy aircraft shot down by anti-aircraft fire, 1 by night fighter during raid January 12. Operations January 16th: (9) Dauntless and Avengers attacked enemy positions CM-IN-11737 (18 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O, 11652 Bec. B(E) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, 1972 By DBS Date COPY MAY 21 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET ) WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4. To t War Ft Shafter - C 644 COMOENSOPAC - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # 18th January 1944 Torokina area; P39's strafed 11 barges, 3 trucks Chabai area, destroyed 2 barges. (10) Main strikes against Rabaul January 16 can- celled due weather; add additional fighter shot dovn January 14, subtract 1 probable; change 2 pro- bables into 2 certain enemy fighters destroyed Rabaul January 12. (11) Searcher strafed 6 abandoned barges Ambitle Island. Part 3. Weather. Broken and middle cloud over general area with rain patches over New Britain, Vitias and Huon Peninsula, thick weather with thunderstorms along northern coast Nev Guines, generally adverse at night; north vestern area mainly broken middle cloud with showers over eastern Arafura Sea and deteriorat- ing generally at night. Air. (1) 62 500 lb, 5 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition, 2 500 1b 1/10 second delay bombs, 84 120 1b clus- ters dropped from 8,000 feet. (2) 2 1,000 lb, 4 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 1500 feet; moderate light machine gun fire encountered. CM-IN-11737 (18 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E 0. 11652, Bec. S(R) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS Date 4MAY 211973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelen GHQ SWPA Page 5. To : War - C 644 Ft Shafter - No # COMGENSOPAC - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # 18th January 1944 (3) 51 500 lb, 99 250 1b rod extension demolition, 1547 4 1b incendiary bombs dropped from 11,000 to 9500 feet; alight light insccurate anti-airoraft fire. (4) 12 1,000 1b bombs dropped from 10,000 to 5,000 feet, light anti-airoraft fire. (5) 191 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 19,000 to 14,000 feet; slight heavy inaccurate anti-aircraft fire. (6) 30 500 1b instantanoous demolition bomba dropp- ed from 1,000 feet; 2900 rounds 30 calibre, 7400 rounds 50 calibre spent in strafing. (7) No details. (8) 10 250 1b general purpose bombu dropped, 6 other jettisoned; 350 rounds 20 MM, 1,000 rounds 30 calibre spent in strafing. No 31g ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAP WHITE HOUSED CCS (CAPT ROYAL, USN) ADM KING GEN VANDEGRIFT LOG CM-IN-11737 (18 Jan 44) 20092 mos DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. B(B) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May % 1972 By DBS Data MAY 21 1973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 1 FROM CINCSOMESPAC 2 PRIORITY 3 PPPPPPPP RELEASED BY 18 JANUARY 1944 FOR ACTION COLINCH 4 ROUTINE 5 DATE DEFERRED 6 7 TOR CODEROOM 181527 * 9 DECODED BY STRICKLAND PRIORITY CHO 10 BY INFORMATION PPPPPPPPR PARAPHRASED ROUTINE ZUND 12 CINOPAC COM 3RD FLT DISCARED 13 ROUTED BY SCRUGGS 14 VALES OTHERWISE INDICATED THE DESPATEM WILL as TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRESEDENCE MD AS ADMINISTRATIVE 15 IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 17 180815 18 NOR 7276 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTSOINS DISPATENCE PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE MICH CLEAR SPACE REFORE DEMINISE TEXT ACTION 21 P-O R 23 (con 7TH FLEET PASSE8 FOR CIRCSOWESPAC ACTION F-01 24 CONTINCH INFO CHO CINCPAC COM 3RD FLEET) F-02 25 26 F-05 27 UPON RETURNING TO CAPE CRETIN TH18 EVENING 4 DD'S F-07 28 29 F-1 ECCORTING 4 LST'S FROM GLOUCESTER WILL HEAD FOR 30 F-2 31 SAIDOR WITH 5 LST'S. ECHELON OF 6 LST'S 4 DD'S 32 F-20 as FROM SAIDOR DETACHED 5 L3T'S AT CRETIN AND REMAINDER P-S 34 35 F-30 CONVOY ARRIVED SUDEST T.113 MORNING. 2 DD'S ON 36 F-31 37 RETURNING GLOUCESTER ESCORT MADE SUE AND BARGE UNT 38 F-32 39 AROUND WEBER POINT NE. GUINEA WITH NO CONTACTS THEN F-33 40 41 F-34 BOWBARDED GALI AVERAGE RANGE 4100 OBSERVING LARGE 42 F-4 43 EXPLOSION AND FIRE. PT BOATS MADE NO CONTACTS 44 FXO1 45 NIGHT 16-17TH. NO REPORT LAST HIGHTS CATALINA FX30 46 47 FX37 ACTIVITY MACARTHUR 48 FX40 49 COMINGH 50 ACT IG-00 51 OP03 200 DECLASSIFIED VCNO 52 E 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (1) Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer is person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS) OSD latter. May 1972 By DBS MAY 21 1973 180815 OPNAY-NCR-15 300 Sourespac Date DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE OPERATIONAL PRIORITY From: GHQ SWPA, Brisbane To: WAR C597 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 17 January 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Dept CG Havaiian Department CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMDEL AMMISCA 0597. Operations report period 13002/15 to 1300Z/16 SOUWESPAC area signed MscArthur. Shortland Island: Submarine sighted in vicinity morning January 16. Cape Saint George: Two Destroyers reported heading for Rabaul 40 miles south east afternoon January 15. New Hanover: Attacking Catalinas report 45 miles north west at 14082/15 on south easterly course 4 large cargo vessels 2 cruisers and 5 other vessels nearby including 2 medium merchant vessels 1 destroyer. New Guinea: Wewak: 3 sea trucks sighted heading north from Wewan night January 15. Alexishafen: Fighter patrol reports increase in anti aircraft fire. Medang: Approximately 30 enemy fighters in area 00052/16, similar number over Saidor 23302/15. CM-IN-10971 (17 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(R) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May 6 1972 300 w Sowespan By DBS MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ SWPA, Brisbane Page -2- To: WAR C597 Ft Shafter No / New Caledonia No # New Delhi NO # Chungking No # 17 January 1944 Huon Peninsula: 10 barges reported hidden in Melanua Harbour, 4 sighted at Gauss Point. Dutch New Guinea: 2 enemy bombers reported over mouth Eilanden river midday. Ambon: B24 sighted 5 medium vessels numerous barges in harbour, 18 fighters 2 bombers at Laha evening January 16. Part 2. North Eastern Area. Land. Arawe: Extensive patrol activity, no contact. Cape Gloucester: Continued consolidation of hill 660. Sio: Consolidation and patrolling continues. Air. Operations January 16: (1) B24 on night reconnaissance bombed 3 small freighters leaving Wevak. (2) Five night Catalinas attacked 2 convoys north west New Hanover, scored direct hit on 10,000 ton cargo vessel which exploded and burned, scored hit on and strafed 6000 ton cargo ship caused violent explosion, set 8,000 ton vessel on fire with direct hit. (3) 2 RAAF Beaufighters searched south coast New Britain, strafed barge; 2 RAAF A20's hombed dumps Gasmate CM-IN-10971 (17 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 8(D) or (8) OSD letter, May 1972 By DBS Date MAY 2 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ SWPA, Brisbane Page -3- To: WAR 0597 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # Chungking No # New Delhi No # 17 January 1944 strafed Taruk mission (34 miles east Arawe); 3 B25's bombed and strafed villages between Wide and Jacquinot Bays, 1 B25 lost due anti aircraft fire. (4) 17 B24's supported ground forces Arave, bombed enemy defence positions east Amalut Plantation, caused ex- plosion and fires) bombing excellent. (5) 20 B25's followed (4), bombed and thoroughly strafed area outlined by ground forces smoke shells; graded excellent. (6) 18 B25's covered by P38's strafed and bombed coast north Alexishafen to Cape Gourdon, destroyed bridge huts and buildings, damaged several barges and trucks; approximately 30 enemy fighters intercepted, 3 enemy destroyed 2 probably destroyed by bombers, 3 others damaged by fighters, 1 B25 lost. (7) 2 P38's strafed Alexishafen dusk and dawn night January 15, damaged fighter on strip. (8) 27 B25's bombed Erima Plantation and coastal villages to north, caused 2 large explosions, smoke obscured results, bombing excellent. (9) 36 A20's, 12 P40's bombed and strafed designated villages and supply dumps on Eaula/Bogadjim road, damaged bridges caused explosions and landalides, bombing grades excellent. CM-IN-10971 (17 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. NR) and 8(D) or (ii) OSD letter, May 1, 19745 By DBS CORY No. MAY 21 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ, SWPA, Brisbane Page -4- To: WAR 0597 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # Chungking No # New Delhi No # 17 January 1944 (10) 10 P39's searched along Rai coast during day, strafed barges and troops moving west along coast. (11) Preliminary report enemy attack on Saidor states 18 enemy fighters 1 dive bomber were destroyed 2 other fighters probably destroyed by P40's; no P40's lost. Northwestern Area. Air. Operations: (12) 7 B24's bombed shipping Ambon, left large un- identified vessel smoking, shot down 3, 1 other probable, of 8 float planes intercepting. Solomons. SOUPAC Forces. Air Enemy action: Light raid Torokina night January 14, no damage. Operations: (13) Ventura bombed enemy positions north west Choiseul, Avengers bombed bridges and bivouac areas South Empress Augusta Bay, 2 Dauntless destroyed bridge same area. (14) 6 of 22 B24's got through cloud, bombed Rabaul Area night January 14, destroyed 2 searchlights; weather prevented pre davn Avenger strike; 24 B25's bombed East Cape area New Ireland, patrolling Corsairs shot down enemy fighter over Rabaul; changed 2 probables to 2 definite enemy fighters shot down Rabaul January 14. CM-IN-10971 (17 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Bec. 3(B) and 5(D) or (B) By DBS OSD letter, May , 19MAY 45 2-1 197. COPY Date No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ, SWPA, Brisbane Page -5- To: WAR 0597 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 17 January 1944. Part 3. Weather. Broken to overcast middle and low cloud over all the north east sector with wide spread rain areas; broken middle and low cloud through north western area. Air. (1) 3 1,000 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 200 feet. (2) No details received. (3) 600 rounds 20 MM, 2,000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from 100 feet by Beaufighters; 2 250 1b demolition 8 to 11 seconds delay bombs dropped from 50 feet; 300 rounds 50 calibre, 400 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by A20's; 2 500 1b bombs dropped, 1000 rounds 50 calibre fired by B25's who reported intense light accurate anti aircraft fire Jacquinot Bay. (4) 131 1,000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs, dropped from 6,700 to 4,500 feet. (5) 50 500 lb, 70 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay de- molition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 30,200 rounds 50 calibre, 6,100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (6) 28 300 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay, 69 300 lb 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bomba dropped from 100 feet; 106 rounds 75 MM, 16,400 rounds 50 calibre, 6,600 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing and in combat. CM-IN-10971 (17 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Date COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASCIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: GHQ SWIA, Brisbane Page -6- To: WAR 0597 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 17 January 1944 (7) 68 rounds 20 MM, 600 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; intense light, slight heavy accurate and in- accurate anti aircraft fire. (8) 48 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs, 94 incendiary clusters dropped from 7,000 feet. (9) 1 300 1b wire wrapped, 132 250 lb 4 to 5 secnnda delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 145 rounds 20 MM, 54,000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by A20's; 12 500 1b 1/10th second delay demolition bombs dropped from 5,000 to 2000 feet; 4,300 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by P40's; light accurate anti aircraft fire Yaula. (10) Unstated number rounds fired from minimum altitude. (11) No details received. (12) 27 500 1b .025 tail delay bombs dropped from 15,000 feet 9 jettisoned; 9,000 rounds 50 calibre fired in combat; intense heavy accurate anti aircraft fire. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF FIELD MARSHAL DILL WHITE HOUSE CC/S (CAPT. ROYAL, USN) ADM. KING GEN. VANDEGRIFT DECLASSIFIED LOG E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and, 6(D) or (R) or (E) CM-IN-10971 (17 Jan 44) 16342 eng OSD letter, May 4, 1972 1972 By DBS Date By Date MAY 973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE - FROM CINCSWPF PPPPPP 2 PRIORITY 3 RELEASED BY 17 JANUARY 1944 FOR ACTION 4 ROUTINE COMINCH 5 DEFERRED 6 DATE 7 1054 8 TOR CODEROOM PPPPP 9 DECODED BY BENNETT CNO PRIORITY 10 INFORMATION CINCPAC = PARAPHRASED ROUTINE BY SANDBERG COMTHIRDFLT 12 DEFERRED 13 PARMENTER 14 ROUTED BY 15 UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL II TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE INJ AS ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW (PAGE 1 OF 2) 170647 NCR 6594 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTGOING DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 23 (COMSEVENTHFLT PASSES FOR CINCSWPF, ACTION TO F-01 24 COMINCH, INFO CNO, CINCPAC, COMTAIRDFLT.) F-02 25 26 F-05 27 F-07 28 5 NIGHT CATALINAS 15-16 CONTACTED 4 LARGE MARUS 29 F-1 30 ESCORTED BY 2 UNIDENTIFIED CRUISERS OR DD'S AND 2 F-2 31 32 F-20 MEDIUM MARUS WITH 2 DD AND OTHER ESCORT NORTHWEST 33 F-3 34 KAVIENG. as F-30 36 ATTACK WITH FOLLOWING RESULTS. 10000 TON AK HIT TWICE F-31 37 38 F-32 39 BURNED. F-33 40 6000 TON AK HIT ONCE AND STRAFED RESULTING IN VIOLENT 41 F-34 42 43 EXPLOSIONS. F-4 44 FX01 8000 TON AK HIT ANOTHER PROBABLY HIT ORANGE GLOW WHITE 45 46 FX30 47 SMOKE OBSERVED. FX37 48 FX40 49 NIGHT 16-17 BLACK CAT TRACKED CONVOY SOUTH NEW HANOVER 50 IG-00 51 BOMBED BUT MISSED IN BAD VISIBILITY. DECLASSIFIED 52 VCNQ E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1972 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) in DRS, Date MAY 21 1973 OPNAY-SCR-11 70647 300 Somespac DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE I FROM CINCSWPF 2 PRIORITY 3 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION 4 ROUTINE 5 DATE DEFERRED 6 7 8 TOR CODEROOM 9 PRIORITY 10 DECODED BY INFORMATION 11 PARAPHRASED ROUTINE 12 BY DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY 14 15 UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL K TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE DD AS ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 17 (PAGE 2 OF 2) 170647 is NCR 6594 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 OR OUTGOING DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT DAE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 23 CATALINAS UNDAMAGED ALTHOUGH WERE FIRED ON BOTH NIGHTS. F-01 24 F-02 25 PI PATROLS DESTROYED 3 BARGES LAST NIGHT NEAR ARAWE ALSO 26 F-05 27 RESCUED PATROL PILOT AND MOVED PLANE TO SAFETY. F-07 28 29 6 LST 4 DD LEFT SAIDOR LAST NIGHT SHUTTLING BACK TO F-1 30 SUDEBT. F-2 31 32 F-20 33 4 LST 4 DD DELIVERED CAPE GLOUCESTER EARLY TH18 MORNING. F-3 34 35 4 LCT 8C YMS CROSSED TO ARAWE LAST NIGHT. F-30 36 2 DD'S ON SUB AND BARGE HUNT OFF GALI ( 20 MILES EAST F-31 37 38 F-32 39 OF SAIDOR) WITH NEGATIVE RESULTS. F-33 40 41 MACARTHUR. F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FXO1 45 FX30 46 47 COMINCH....ACT FX37 48 49 CNO 16 20G FX40 NAVAIDE OP03 200P 50 IG-00 51 DECLASIFIED VCNO 52 SECRET E. O. 11652, See. 3(E) and 5(D) & (8) OSD letter, May , 1972 Make original only, Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) By DBS) Date OPNAV-NCR-15 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTME DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE CINCSOMESPAC - ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE FROM (COM 7TH FLT) 2 PRPPPPPP 4 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION COMINGH ROUTINE 5 16 JAN 1944 DEFERRED 6 DATE 7 1148° 8 TOR CODEROOM 9 ROSENTHAL PRRPPPP 10 DECODED BY INFORMATION CNO 11 PARAPHRASED ROTHROCK CINCPAC ROUTINE 12 BY COM 3RD FLT DEFERRED 13 WIDMAN 14 ROUTED BY 15 WALESS OTHERWISE INDICATES THIS DISPATEN WILL BE EMAINITTED WITH an as IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 160749 NCR 6120 17 16 10 ORIGINATION FILL IN DATE TIME GCT & or ACTION 6 7-0 is COM 7TH FLT PASSING FOR CINCSOWESRAC TO COMINCH 21 /-0 FOR ACTION INFO TO CNO, CINCPAC, COM 3RD FLT. a 1-0 - THERE ARE 4 LST, 4 DD ENROUTE CAPE GLOUCESTER DUE TOMORROW MORNING. 6 LST, 4 DDS DELIVERED SAIDOR THIS WORNING. NO DIFFICULTIES IN SUPPLY OF BEACHES PT PATROLS AND BLACK CAT NEGATIVE. 37 MACARTHUR. P-3: X P-32 as 40 F-33 *NOTE: DELAYED DUE TO SERVICE. 41 F-34 42 F-4 = 44 FX01 45 COMINCH...ACT 46 FX30 47 20G...OP01... FX37 48 49 FX40 50 IC-C 51 52 DECLASSIRED VCNO SECRET E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1972 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Offer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) By DBS Date OPNAY-NCB-15 160749 MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Run INCOMING MESSAGE OPERATIONAL PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To : War - C 547 Ft Shafter, T.H. - No # New Caledonia - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # 16th January 1944 Operations report SOWESPAC Area period 13002/14 to 1300Z/15 signed MacArthur. To Chief of Staff War De- partment to CG Havaiian Department to CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC to AMMISCA AMMDEL. New Britain: Witu Islands: Submarine sighted by reconnaissance aircraft afternoon January 14th. New Guinea: Catalina reported 15 aircraft off Sepik River mouth night January 14. Uligan Harbour: One sea truck, 16th/20 barges reported by attacking B-24's January 15th. Alexishafen: 10 bombers sighted on airdrome by attacking P-38's evening January 14th. Huon Peninsula: Fighter patrol reported many signs of movement along coast vest of Herwath Point. Northwestern Area: Halmahera: 1 light cruiser, 1 destroyer, 17 merchant vessels approximately 6 to 3,000 tons, 22 barges reported in Wasile Bay (Kau Bay) by Catalinas night January 14th. CM-IN-10358 (16 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May L 1972 3as THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN By DBS COPY 45 MAY 21 1973 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2. To : War - C 547 Ft Shafter, T.H. - No # New Caledonia - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # 16th January 1944 Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land. Arave: Patrolling continues, no contacts. Cape Gloucester: Hill 660 captured January 14th, 1 mopping up and patrolling in progress; total Allied casual- ties to date, 228 dead, 694 vounded; estimated 3,100 enemy dead, 11 prisoners. Sio: Aircraft reports Allied patrol passing Vincke Point. Ramu Valley: Artillery exchanged fire with enemy. Air. Enemy action: Light raids Arave and Saidor; fighters strafed Gusap and Nadzab Airdromes (upper Ramu) damaged parked aircraft, 2 enemy fighters claimed destroyed, 1 other probably destroyed by anti-aircraft fire. Operations January 14th: (1) 2 P-38's strafed and damaged small schooner North Madang, strafed troops and left gounded bomber burning Alexishafen. (2) 2 RAAF Boomerangs strafed enemy troops West Sio. CM-IN-10358 (16 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. N(B) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS Date COPY No. MAY &5 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASCIFIEO SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3. To # War - C 547 Ft Shafter, T.H. - No # Nev Caledonia - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # 16th January 1944 Operations January 15th: (3) 4 P-39's strafed Itne River area, hit machine gun. (4) 2 B-25's searched south coast New Britain, strafed villages destroyed bridge silenced gun position Jacquinot Bay area. (5) 24 B-24's bombed Uligan gun positions and supply areas, destroyed buildings caused large explosion; bombing excellent three Squadrons, poor one Squadron. (6) 10 B-25's searched coast North Madang, destroy- ed 2 bridges, heavily strafed number villages Uligan area, destroyed anti-aircraft gun position. (7) 12 P-47's strafed Alexishafen runvay, left 2 bombers burning also set small dumps afire, strafed 1 fighter in revetment. (8) 10 B-25's, 12 P-40's bombed and strafed Ramu Valley road South Daumaina, damaged bridge and hit number villages, bombing excellent. Northwestern Area Operations: (9) 5 RAAF Catalinas on mission Halmahera strafed shipping and barges. Solomons. SOUPAC Forces. Air. CM-IN-10358 (16 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(B) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS Data MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 45 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4. To 1 War - C 547 Ft Shafter, T.H. - No Nev Caledonia - No # Nev Delhi - No Chungking - No # 16th January 1944 Enemy action: Night January 13th light raids re- ported Russels, Segi, Torokina, Munda and Treasury (some damage Torokina). Corsair shot down enemy bomber Toro- kins. Operations January 14th: (10) 2 B-24's bombed Kahili, 2 Avengers bombed bridge Empress Augusta Bay, 2 P-38's shot 10wn bomber off Torokina, 12 Dauntless, 5 P-39's bombed Wakunai (East Coast), fighters bombed and strafed Numa Numa area. (11) 15 B24's harassed airdromes Rabaul area dur- ing night, caused large explosion Lakunai; 12 B-25's harassed Vunakanau, Cape Gazelle, East Cape and Buka predawn. (12) 36 Dauntless, 16 Avengers, 73 fighters attack- ed Rabaul shipping midday, scored direct hits on 7 cargo vessels, 1 destroyer, 1 possible light cruiser, also scored number near misses; 29 enemy fighters of 60 to 70 intercepting shot down, 16 others probably destroyed. Part 3. Weather. Generally broken to overcast middle and low cloud with rain areas and at times adverse conditions; Northwestern Area conditions mainly favourable except for frontal zone extending from east to west through central regions. CM-IN-10358 (16 Jan 44) BECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 7(R) and 8(D) or (8) OSD latter, May , 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5. To : War - C 547 Ft Shafter, T.H. - No # Nev Caledonia - No # New Delhi - No # Chungking - No # 16th January 1944 Air. (1) No details received. (2) 140 rounds 20 MM, 300 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (3) No details received. (4) 8 500 1b demolition 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude; unstated number rounds fired in strafing from 25 feet; slight insocurate anti-airoraft fire from Palm Point. (5) 191 1,000 lb instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9,900 feet; slight to moderate medium and heavy mostly insccurate anti-aircraft fire. (6) 219 100 lb 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 100 feet; 21,600 rounds 50, 8,800 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; intense medium accurate anti-aircraft fire Bligan Harbour. (7) No details received. (8) 62 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 2,000 feet; 21,800 rounds 50, 900 rounds 30 cali- bre fired in strafing from 200 feet; slight light insccurate anti-airoraft fire. CM-IN-10358 (16 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 4 1972 By DBS Date MAY 2 141973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 6. To : War - C 547 Ft Shafter, T.H. - No # New Caledonia - No # Nev Delhi - No Chungking - No # 16th January 1944 (9) 50 rounds 50, 200 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from 200 feet; moderate heavy inaccurate anti-aircraft fire. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF Field Marshal Dill White House CC/S Capt. Royal, USN Adm. King Gen. Vandegrift Log CM-IN-10358 (16 Jan 44) 14112 CW DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(th) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 4, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET a WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA. To: WAR No. C 521 16 January 1944. From GHQ SWPA to AGWAR 0521. Signed MacArthur refer your 2703 dated 8 January. Joint operation Saidor landing naval portion follows: Assault amphibious craft consisted 9 APD launching 36 LCP (R) in 4 waves followed by 16 LCI followed by 6 LST. Landed at beaches by 1 hour 15 minutes. All assault craft retracted by 4 hours 20 minutes. Above assault landings at 3 beaches over 1200 yards by 7000 troops with 3000 tons supplies and equipment. Fourteen destroyers utilized for escort, bombardment, cover, AA and close support as follows: 11 exposed flank during landings; 4 DD preceded convoy 12 miles covered movement and 6 DD escorted APD and LCI echelons then divided upon arrival transport area into 4 DD fire support group and 2 DD fire support group for bombardment and close support; " beaches; Terminated fire when small craft 1000 yards from Extent- of naval gunfire support rendered: 575 rounds deep support, 1300 rounds close support, 5 incost 38 AA common mark 18; 4 DD escorted LST echelon. One SC for control at attention line of departure. One SC and 2LCI rocket equipped provided close support abreast leading vave beginning H minus 3 Capt wore DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(R) and 5(D) or (II) CM-IN-10323 (16 Jan 44) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 300 Suverpac COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NI 101 SECRET 3 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2. From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To I WAR No. C 521 16 January 1944. minutes and continued support until leading small craft 300 yards from beach, Rocket barrage worked inland 200 yards, Information relative troops and equipment follows by radio. Full details by air mail. No Sig 2703 1s CM-OUT-3011 (8 Jan 44) OPD ACTION: OPD CM-IN-10323 (16 Jan 44) 1248z ong DECLASSIFIED E.O. 11662, Sec. I(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS MAY 21 1973 COPY No. 8 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Im INCOMING MESSAGE OPERATIONAL PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 512 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No / Chungking No # 15 January 1944 From GHQ SWPA signed MacArthur to Chief of Staff War Department CG Havaiian Department CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMDEL AMMISCA C 512. Operations report SOUWESPAC area period 13002/13 to 13002/14 signed MacArthur. Mussau Island: 2 patrol boats 4 vessels including 2 tankers sighted on northerly course 70 miles vest midnight January 13; air cover by 12 aircraft. New Britain: Rabaul: Photographs January 14th show 151 fighters 5 dive 18 light 33 medium bombers on airdromes, 3 destroyers 4 submarines 5 subchasers 7 medium 16 small cargo vessele 385 barges 13 float planes in harbour. Cape Gloucester: Patrols in airdrome area report no enemy contacts. Northwestern Area: Ceram: Photographs Amahai show further dispersal areas under construction, light bomber, possible Dinah, on airdrome. Timor: 1200 ton freighter transport and barge sighted off Atapoepoe, sea truck off Baucau. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9711 (15 Jan 44) E. 0. 11652, Sec. (B) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May , 1072 swoa By DBS DateMAY $ 2 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2 To: WAR C 512 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No / Chungking No # 15 January 1944 End of part 1. Part 2. Northeastern area. Land. Cape Gloucester: Allied forces met stiff resistance from entrenched positions on hill 660. Sio: Patrol reached Sio, found many dead, no resistance; much ammunition and equipment captured along coast. Saidor: Outpost contacted small enemy group Galek. Air. Enemy action: Light raids Cape Gloucester and Arave night January 13, no damage. Operations January 13: (1). 13 RAAF P40's bombed Erima dump area. (2). 2 P38's strafed Alexishafen January 12th, destroyed 1 aircraft on ground. CM-IN-9711 (15 Jan 44) DECLASSINED E. O. 11652, Ses. 3(2) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS MAY 21 1977 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASCIFIED 0 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3 To: WAR C 512 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 15 January 1944 Operations January 14th: (3). Reconnaissance B24 bombed Bogadjim Village. (4). 3 B25's bombed and strafed villages southeast coast New Britain, destroyed buildings. (5). 7 B24's bombed villages Cape Busching area, hits observed. (6). 12 A20's bombed and strafed Mariarapu Village (south west Borgen Bay), badly damaged huts. (7). 11 B25's bombed and strafed villages on Rottock and Rega Bays destroyed huts, weather hampered operation. (8). 14 P47's strafed supply dumps Madang area, silenced gun position. (9). 26 B25's bombed and heavily strafed Frederick Karl Harbour area (Alexishafen) destroyed buildings Amron mission (18th Army Headquarters), caused large explosions in possible ammunition dumps. (10). 18 B24's bombed Nagada Mission (Frederick Karl Harbour) destroyed buildings and houses, started large fire. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9711 (15 Jan 44) E O. 11652, Bec. 3(C) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 5 1972 By DBS Date MAY 24973 I COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4 To: WAR 0 512 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 15 January 1944 (11). 13 RAAF P40's dive bombed Erima Plantation destroyed huts; veather turned back 14 B25's to hit area. Northwestern Area. Operations; (12). Patrolling B24 bombed cleared area West Dilli. (13). 8 RAAF Beaufighters harassed shipping north coast Timor, destroyed 1200 ton freighter, damaged 500 ton vessel, strafed Atamboea. Solomons. SOUPAC Forces. Land. Patrols Torokina area active, report light contacts. Naval: Destroyers bombarded Tinputz/Ruri Bay area dawn January 13th started fires. Air: Enemy action: Light raids on Torokina Runway, Munda (some damage) and Barakoma strip. Operations January 13th: (14). Night reconnaissance unit started DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9711 (15 Jan 44) E. O, 11652, See. 7(B) and 8(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: WAR C 512 Ft Shafter No # Nev Caledonia No # New Delhi No / Chungking No # 15 January 1944 large fires Choiseul Bay area, B24 bombed Poporang, 3 Dauntless damaged Puriata River bridge, P39's bombed and strafed Tinputz and Nube Cuma areas, 1 P70 bombed Rabaul. (15). 16 B24's bombed Lakunai airdrome and 5 hours during night January 12th, also bombed revetment area Tobera. (16). 11 B25 strafed and bombed Tobera and Rapopo before dawn, also dropped parafrags Wide Bay. (17). Avengers followed (16) launched torpedoes Simpson Harbour, no explosions ob- served. (18). 20 Avengers, 54 Dauntless, 92 fighters to attack Rabaul midday returned due weather. Part 3. Weather. Broken to overcast middle cloud covered entire area, steady rain and thunderstorms over south east New Guinea Solomons Sea and New Britain, lov cloud with frequent showers extended New Ireland Manus to north coast Nev Guinea; northwestern area mainly favourable except for scattered thunderstorms but adverse conditions prevailed over Arnhem Land. DECLASSIFIED Boom CM-IN-9711 (15 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 6(D) of (1) OSD letter, May 1, 1872 MAY 21 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 45 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 6 To: WAR C 512 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 15 January 1944 Air. (1). 11 500 1b 1/10 second delay demolition bombs dropped from 4000 feet. (2). No details received. (3)- 2 1000 1b .025 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from 8000 feet. (4) 8 500 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bomba dropped; 7,700 rounds 50, 3,300 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (5). 84 500 1b instantaneous demolition bomba dropped from 8,000 feet. (6). 28 300 1b wire wrapped, 17 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from mini- mum altitude; 20,700 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (7). 54 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude by 11 aircraft; 10,000 rounds 50, 1,500 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by 8 aircraft. (8). No details received. CM-IN-9711 (15 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E 0. 11652, Bee. 100 and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 4. 1972 By DBS Da:MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 7 To: WAR c 512 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonía No # New Delhi No # Chungking No / 15 January 1944 (9). 144 300 1b, 56 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum alti- tude by 26 aircraft; 25,600 rounds 50, 2,600 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by 20 aircraft; slight heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire reported by 1 squadron. (10). 216 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8,000 feet; slight light in- accurate anti aircraft fire. (11). 13 500 1b 1/10 second delay demolition bomba dropped four 10,000 feet; 5,400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing; moderate light and medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (12). 4 300 lb demolition .025 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from 8,000 feet. (13). 1,625 rounds 20 MM, 3,800 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from minimum altitude; slight light inaccurate anti aircraft fire from freighter transport and along coast Timor, moderate medium and heavy inaccurate from Loutem. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAP WHITE HOUSE GEN. VANDEGRIFT DECLASSIFIED CC/S(CAPT. ROYAL, USN) ADM. KING & G. 11652, Ben. e(m) and 6(D) or FIELD MARSHAL DILL OSD letter, May , 1973 LOG R DBS Date MAY 21 1973 CM-IN-9711 (15 Jen 44) 45 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Rm INCOMING MESSAGE CORRECTED COPY PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon OHQ SWPA To: Fort Shafter Fo. # New Caledonia No. # New Delhi No. # Chungking No. # WAR No. 0-475 14 January 1944 Signed MacArthur from OHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department 00 Hawaiien Department OG USAFISPA pass to CONSOPAC AMRISCA AMNDEL c 475, Report of operations BOWESPAO Area. 1300 2/12 to 1300 2/13. New Hanover: Convoy of 2 destroyers 3 medium mer- chant vessels on northerly course off Cape Matemalem Middam January 13; 5 aircraft reported Mussau Island area pre- ceding night. New Guines: Wewak: Ostalina reported 6 enemy air- craft heading West near Blup Blup Island night January 12. Huon Peninsular Approximately 22 barges sighted along coast west of Sio January 12 and 13. Northwestern Area: Missions January 13 report several unidentified vessels Balikpapan, 4 large vessels beading north vest 60 miles west Mander (Celebes), 2 small cargo ships north Timor, 3 off north Coast Ceram, 8 Kaimana area, 2 at Xesukva (Duton New Guines). End of Part 1. CM-IN-9629 (15 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. I(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May I, 1972 By DBS MAY 21 197 S Date COPY No. 300 sura THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT. NARA Date 4/13/016 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2 Tot WAR No. 0-475 14 January 1944 Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land. Arave: Artillery shell- ed enemy positions. Cape Gloucester: Marines resumed attack south to- wards Natamo; artillery destroyed landing barge. 1 Kalasat Patrols active Kapugera River Area; Nambariva captured, many enemy dead in vicinity, Saldor: Patrols report hil enemy activity. Airt Enemy action: Light raids reported on Wood- lark and Finschhsfen night January 12. Operations January 12: (1) 13 B25's bombed supply dumps Bogadjim area, started several fires. Operations January 13: (2) Reconnaissance B24 scored hit and near miss on medium tanker in convoy West Cape Matanalem, vessel left stationary and smoking. (3) Night Catalina bombed and strafed 100 ton cargo vessel east Wewak. (4) 12 A20's bombed and thoroughly strafed Didmop CM-IN-9629 (15 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E O. 11652, Sec. S(R) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS copy No.My 21.1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Scholon GHQ BWPA Page 3 To: WAR No, 0-475 14 January 1944 village (hrave area). (5) 2 RAAF Beaufighters strafed Tavelo village and Jacquinot Bay on south coast New Britain. (6) 7 RAAF P40's strafed Anvek River mouth area (Gasmats). (7) 9 B25's searched coast North Alexishafen, bombed and strafed villages and road, destroyed bridge several buildings and boats. (8) 28 B 24's pattern bombed Alexishafen area, hit runvay destoyed houses started fires. (9) 2 patrolling night P38's shot down enemy bomber Alexishafen. (10) 22 A20's bombed and heavily strafed villages bridges along Bogadjim Yaula road. (11) 20 P-39's strafed Coast Bogadjim area, damaged 7 barges and hit supply dumps. Northwestern Area. Air. Operations, (12) 17 B24's to attack Balikpapan night January 12th, 4 jettisoned bombs, 2 bombed targets Delebes, 2 bombed Macassar Dock area, destroyed intercepting fighter, 2 bombed Dilli starting fires, 6 hit refinery area at target, caused number fires and explosions; 1 824 missing. CM-IN-9629 (15 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. I(E) and 6(D) or (E) OSD letter, May L 1978 By DBS DateMAY 2.1.1973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4 Tot WAR No. C-475 14 January 1944 (13) Next day 4 B24's unsuccessfully bombed shipping north coast Ceram Island, dropped incendiaries Amahai Airdrome. (14) 4 Reconnaissance B24's searched Dutch New Guinee bombed shipping off Kesukva, bombed Geser and Keaukva villages, starting fires. SOUPAO Forces. Air. Enemy action: light raid Munda and Treasury Island, little damage, night January 12th. Operations January 12: (15) B24 bombed Kahili, 10 Dauntless 2 Avengers bombed and strafed Moisegetta area destroyed bridge, fighters strafed Piano Mission (Kara area and Haus Harbour, P70 and B24 bombed Bulca/Bonia areas, starting fires. Ribaul (16) 13 B25's in surprise/davn attack bombed and strafed from minimum altitude Vunakanau Airdrome, destroyed at least 7 aircraft, also strafed small vessels in herbour. (17) 19 escorted B24's bombed Tobera, caused large explosion, 5 of 30/40 enemy fighters intercepting destroyed 3 others probably destroyed. Part 3. Weather. Thick weather southern Solomon Sea else- where cloud mainly broken in northeastern area; frontal zones in Arafure Sea along latitude 10 degrees south. CM-IN-9629 (15 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (II) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS DMAY 21 1973 COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ACCIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: WAR No. 0-475 14 January 1944 Air: (1) 10 1000 lb, 30 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8000 to 6500 feet. (2) 2 1000 1b bombs dropped from 10,000 feet; moderate medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (3) 1 500 1b general purpose bomb dropped, 500 rounds 50 and 30 celibre fired in strafing. (4) 42 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 12400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. (5) 1500 rounds 20MM, 3000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from minimum altitude, (6) 2100 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from 1500 feet; slight light inscourste anti aircraft fire. (7) 94 100 1b 4 to 5 second delay demolition bombs dropped from 300 feet and under; 200 rounds 50, 1000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing) moderate medium socurate anti airoraft fire, some light from Karkar Island. (8) 120 500 1b, 80 300 1b, 264 250 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 10,000 feet. (9) No details received. CM-IN-9629 (15 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May \1877 By DBS MAY 21 1973 Date COPY No. 55 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356 Sec 33 or Sec 34 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ BWPA Page 6 To: WAR No. 0-475 14 January 1944 (10) 18 300 1b wire wrapped, 42 500 1b, 19 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 300 feet and under; 14,500 rounds fired in strafing by 10 air- craft; slight light inscourate shall airtraft fire. (11) 117 rounds 37MM, 3400 rounds 30, 1300 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by 14 P39's; alight light in- sccurate anti aircraft fire. (12) 30 500 1b general purpose bombs, 6 500 1b incendiary clusters dropped from 12,000 to 10,000 fest Balakpapan, 10 500 1b general purpose bombs, 2 500 1b incendiary clusters dropped Celebes, Facassar and Dilli from 12,000 to 9,000 feet; 20 500 1b general purpose bombs, 4 500 1b incendiary clusters jettisoned; 300 rounds 50 calibre fired in combat; intense sccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres Balikpapan. (13) 36 500 1b general purpose .025 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 8000 feet on shipping, un- stated number incendiaries dropped Amabai. (14) 18 500 1b instentaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9800 feet; slight light insccurate anti air- craft fire. No 81g Corrected copy of CM-IN-9488 (15 Jan 44) OPD ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 GEN, VANDEGRIFT CC/S(CAPT. ROYAL, USN) CG AAF FIELD MARSHAL DILL WHITE HOUSE ADM. KING DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-9629 (15 Jan 44) 12202 eng E. O. 11652, See. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 19MAY 21 197: By DBS Date COPY No. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTME! DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE CLUC SOMESTPAC (MACARTHUR) ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE I PPPPPP 2 FROM (COD 7TH FLEET) PRIORITY 3 FOR ACTION COMINOH 4 RELEASED BY ROUTINE 5 14 JAN 1944 DEFERRED 6 DATE 7 140931 8 TOR CODEROOM 9 NILES PPR DECODED BY CINCPAC PRIORITY 10 PARAPHRASED BATTY INFORMATION CNO 11 ROUTINE COM 3RD FLEET 12 BY ROONEY DEFERRED 13 14 ROUTED BY IS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL = TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRESEDENCE AND AS ADMINISTRATIVE. IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 141601 NCR 4725 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTGOINE DISPATCHES PLEASE LEVE ABOUT ONE INCN CLEAR MIX BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 (con 7TH FLT PASSES FOR CLAC SOWESTPAC ACTION TO 23 COMINGH INFO TO CHOPAC CNO COM 3RD FLEET) F-01 21 MAC ARTHUR F-02 25 20 F-05 27 NIGHT 12-13 BLACK CAT FURTHER REPORTS PROBABLE F-07 21 29 HIT SMALL AK NORTH WEWAK AND MADE 4 STRAFING F-1 30 F-2 3: RUNS LEAVING AK ALMOST DEAD IN WATER. NO ATTACKS 32 F-20 33 L ST NIGHT. NO REPORT PT PATROLS. ARAVE SUPPLIED F-3 34 35 THIS MORNING BY 4 LCT'3 51TH SUBCHASER ESCORT F-30 36 F-31 37 FROM CRETIN. 6 LST 4 DD RETURNED CRETIN FROM as F-32 30 CAPE GLOUCESTER. F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FX01 45 FX30 46 47 FX37 48 CUMINOH ACTI ON FX40 49 50 21% OP03 DECLASSIFIED 10-00 51 E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and VCNO 52 } 8(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Offect in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) Date MAY 21 1973 140601 V-NGB-18 300 Sowespac DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 Rx. DT NADA Data w/ NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTMENT DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 1 CINCSWPA ne FROM COMINCH PPPRARPPPP 4 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION ROUTINE 5. 13 JAN 44 DEFERRED 6 DATE 7 TOR CODEROOM 926 8 9 DECODED BY NILES CINCPAC PPPPPRPPPP PARAPHRASED BY TELSHOW INFORMATION COM 3RD FLT 11 ROUTINE ONO 12 DEFERRED 13 WILLIAMS 14 ROUTED BY is SMLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL " TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRESEDENCE IN) AS ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 130631 NOR 4120 CHECK BELOW 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTGOING DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 (COM 7TH FLT PASSES FOR CINCSWPA ACTION TO COMINCH INFO F-0 22 CNO CINCPAC COM 3RD FLT) 23 F-01 24 F-02 25 ARABE RESUPPLY 4 LCT WITH SC ESCORT WILL 26 F-05 27 CROSS DURING DARKNESS FROM CRETIN TONIGHTAND F-07 28 29 4 LCT RETURNED CRETIN LAST NIGHT. EARLY THIS F-1 30 F-2 31 MORNING 1 LST 4 DD'S ARRIVED CAPE GLOUCESTER. 32 F-20 33 NIGHT11-12 6 CATALINAS BONBED AMBON WAREHOUSES F-3 34 35 AND DOCKS STARTING FIRES. SAME NIGHT 30UTH NEW F-30 36 F-31 37 HANOVER BLACK CAT MADE NEAR WISS ON DD SILENC- 38 F-32 39 ING AA FIRE. LAST NIGHT CAT DESTROYED 1 BARGE F-33 40 41 NEAR BLUU BLUP ISLAND BISMARK SEA AND S01 FFJD F-34 42 F-4 = SC NEAR HANSY SAY. PT'S REPORT NO CONTACTS. 44 FX01 45 MACARTHUR. FX30 46 47 FX37 48 COMINCH...ACT FX40 49 50 230...16...0PJ1 IG-00 51 DECLASSIFIED VCNO 52 E.O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (E) Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) OSD letter, May MAY22 1 1973 OPNAY-NCR-15 130631 300 somespac By DBS Date, DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER the INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Port 20: WAR C 446 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 13 Jan 1944 Signed MacArthur from GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department CG Hawaiian Department CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL C446. Report of Operations SOWESPAC Area period 1300Z/11 to 13002/12 signed MacArthur. New Hanover: Destroyer and unidentified vessel sighted heading south east off vest coast night January 11. New Ireland: Kavieng: Recounaissance B24 reports 1 medium 6 smaller vessels midday January 12; Vessel reported by Cata- lina in Balgai Bay with air cover night January 11. 5 barges reported in Bay near Katherine Harbour by recce aircraft. Vitiaz Strait: 1 Natives report concentration of Japanese Marien Harbour. Northwestern Area: Ambon: Two merchant vessels approximately 3000 tons 3 gun boats reported in harbour by Catalinas night January 11. CM-IN-8322 (13 Jan 44) E O. 11662, Sec. S(E) doit Dilor House (E) DECLASSIFIED 300 Sowespac OSD letter, May 1972, By DBS CORY NAAY 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 2.4. SECRET 0 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page-2 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 446 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 13 Jan 1944 Dutch Nov Guinea: Enomy reconnaissance bomber sighted 70 miles west Cape Valsch. End of Part 1. Part 2: Northeastern Area. Land. Arave: Following artillery barrage patrol raided enemy position east MLR, killed 11 enemy. Kalasa: Forward patrols crossed Kapugara River, nil 1 opposition reachedpoint 6 miles south east Sio; Artillery registered on 310. Air. Operations January 11: (1) Further 14 B25's bombed Uligan during afternoon, cloud obscured results. (2) Four P40's dive bombed Bunsbun River, destroyed huts, also strafed targets along coast. CM-IN-8322 (13 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E O. 11652, Sec. 2(5) end 6(D) or (E) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS Data MAY 01 1973 COPY No. 41 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page-3 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 446 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 13 Jan 1944 Operations January 12: (3) B24 bombed and damaged gun positions Garove Island. (4) Night Catalinas scored damaging near miss on destroyer south east Cape Matanalem, bombed Awar strip (Hansa Bay), destroyed barge and left sea truck burning north Avar. (5) Four P39's strafed and damaged boat Gasmata Area. (6) Fifty B25's 18 B24's bombed and strafed Alexishafen, started large fires destroyed jetty and villages. (7) Two P39's strafed bridge west Bogadjim. (8) Twelve A20's bombed and strafed stores Area West Cape Iris, badly damaged village, 2 P39's strafed and damaged barge. Northwestern Area. Operations: (9) Six USN Catalinas bombed dooks and warehouse areas Ambon, started 4 large fires. Solomons. SOUPAC Forces: Air. Operations. (10) Five Avengers bombed supply areas Empress Augusta Bay January 10, destroyed huts. CM-IN-8322 (13 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. I(E) and 5(D) or (R) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 COPY No, THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS WESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 41 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page -4- From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR 0446 Ft Shafter No # Nev Caledonia - No # Nev Delhi No Chungking No # 13 January 1944 (11) Next day 10 Dauntless 2 Avengers bombed und strafed Maravaka/Mosigetta Bivouse areas; fighters strafed Numa Numa. (12) Twenty B24's bombed Lakunai Tobora and Vunakanau airdromes, cloud obscured results. (13) Forty eight Dauntless, 18 Avengers es- corted by 92 fighters to attack Rabaul turned back by weather, bombed Cape Saint George area, hit aircraft positions de- stroyed buildings started fires; escorting aircraft shot down 1 enemy fighter probably destroyed 4 others. (14) Reconnaissance B24's bombed 5 barges west coast Nev Ireland, bombed radar station Cape Saint George. Part 3. Weather. Extensive areas of overcast low oloud with rain prevailed generally with a frontal sone over the Bis- marck sea; Northwestern area conditions mainly favourable except for heavy rain over inland vestern Nev Guinea and patches of bad weather over Timor and Arafura Seas. Air. (1) 12 1000 lb, 32 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 11,000 feet; heavy inaccurate antiairoraft fire. CM-IN-8322 (13 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E 0. 11652, Sec. 1(1) and 8(D) or (E) OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS MAY 21 1973 COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page -5- To: WAR 0446 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 13 January 1944 (2) 8 300 1b demolition bombs dropped. (3) 2 1000 lb instantaneous demolition bombs Cropped from 7,000 feet; moderate medium accurate anti air- craft fire. (4) No details received. (5) No details received. (6) 12 1000 lb, 178 500 lb, 144 250 1b 1n- stantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 11,500 to 9,500 foot, 24 500 1b, 69 300 1b, 158 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombo dropped from 300 feet, and under, 18,700 rounds 50, 14,800 rounds 30 calibre fired 1a strafing; slight light and heavy insocurate anti aircraft fire. (7) No details received. (8) 59 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demoli- tion bomba dropped from minum altitude; 112 rounds 20 10., 11,400 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by A20's, no details received P39/a. (9) 24 600 lb demoliton bombs, unstated number of incendiaries dropped from 8,000 to 6,000 feet; tlight to moderate heavy and modium mainly inaccurate anti aircraft fire. No Sig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2, CGAAF, White House, Field Marshal Dill, 00/S Capt Royal USN, Adm King, Gen Vandegrift Log DECLASSITIED CM-IN-8322 (13 Jan 44) 16442 O. 11652, Sec. 3(B) and 5(D) or (II) OSD letter, May 1, 1973 By DBS Date COPY No. 41 MAY 21 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASSIFIED NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILCRAM ADDRESSEE I dddddd CING90#ESPAC (COM7THFLT.) 7 PRIORITY 3 ( RELEASED BY DATE12 JANUARY 1944 COMICH FOR ROUTINE 5 DEFERRED 4) 7 - TOR 1459 PPPPPP 9 DECODE TCHELL CNC TION PRIORITY to 11 PARAPHRASED CINGRAC ROUTINE 12 BY SANDBERG CONTHIRDFLEET DEFERRED 13 ROU OTCHINSON 14 IS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL DE TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRESEDENCE ID il ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 17 120621 NCR 3597 is 19 ORIGINATION FILL IN DATE AND TIME DATE TIME GCT & ON OUTSCING DISPATCHES PREMSE LIMIT AROCT ONE INCW CLAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TOT ACTION 21 F-O 22 21 (COMSEVENTHFLT SENDS FCR CINCSO ESPAC TO COMINCH, F-01 24 INFO TO CNO, CHICPAC, COLTHIRDFLT.) F-02 25 26 F-05 27 FROM CRETIN 4 LCT SC ESCORT CROSSED TO ARACE. F-07 28 29 ARRIVALS SUDEST FROM CAPE GLOUCESTER WERE 4 LST'S F-1 30 F-2 31 4 DD'S EARLY THIS SORNING. 32 F-20 aa 6 LST'S 4 DD'S LEFT BUNA FOR GLOUCESTER LAST NIGHT. 34 F-3 35 NO INCIDENTS IN RESUPPLY OF BEACHES. F-30 36 F-31 37 PT PATROLS OFF REISS POINT NEW GUINEA SANK 3 BARGES 38 F-32 39 30 TROOPS EACH AND TOOK 1 PRISONER. F-33 40 41 NEAR SIO PT'S DESTROYED 2 BARGES AND SEVERAL LOADING F-34 42 F-4 43 PERSONNEL. 44 FX01 45 BLACK CATS REGATIVE RIGHT 11-12. FX30 46 47 SIGNED MACARTHUR FX37 48 49 FX40 COMILICH ACT 50 IG-00 51 16...200 CHO 200P 31 OPER BUAER DECLASSIFIED VCNO 23 E.O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1072 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer In person. (See Art. 76 (4) NA by BBS Date OPNAV-NCR-15 120621 300 Sowespac MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE 1 FROM CINC SEPA 2 (VIA CCM 7TH FLT) PARRAPP 3 RELEASED BY DATE 11 JAN 1944 FOR ACTION 4 ROUTINE 5 COMINCH DEFERRED 6 7 TOR CODEROOM 111,32 8 9 DECODED BY NILES PRRRPP 10 INFORMATION CNC II PARAPHRASED CINCPAC ROUTINE BY BATTY 12 COM 3RD FLT DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY HUTCHINSON 14 15 UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THE DISPATCH WILL M TRANSMITTED with DUERRED PRECEDENCE ANJ AL ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 110641 17 NCR 2934 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTSOMS CONTONS PLEASE und ABOUT DATE ISSM ane SPACE BESINNING TUT ACTION 21 F-0 22 (COM 7TH FLT PASSING FOR CINC SPA. COMICH CH ACTION 23 F-01 CINCPIC CND CLN 3RD FLT INFO) 24 F-02 25 26 7-05 BLACK CATS FOUND EMPTY SEAS NIGHT 111-11 JANUARY BUT 27 F-07 28 FURTHER REPORT OF NIGHT 9-11 1 CAT SCORED 50 -LB. 29 F-1 ao BOMB HIT AMITSHIPS CN DD KEPT SUCKING HEAVILY. F-2 31 32 F-20 1 BLACK CAT OVERDUE FROM NIGHT OPERATIONS. PT'S HAD 33 I-3 34 as BIC NIGHT 9-17 SAIDOR AREA DESTROYING 9 BARGES, F-30 36 DAMAGING POSSIBLY DESTROYING 11 MORE MANY LOADED WITH F-31 37 38 F-32 TROOPS. 4 LCT'S WITH SUBCHASER ESCORT RETURNS CRETIN 39 F-33 40 FROM ARAWE LAST NIGHT. ENROUTE FROM GLOUCESTER RE- 41 F-34 42 SUPPLY ARE 4 LST'S 4 DD'S GOING SOUTH TO 3UDEST. NO F-4 43 44 FX01 OPPOSITION OFF BEACHES OR ROUTES. MACARTHUR 45 FX30 46 47 FX37 48 FX40 49 50 COMINCH ACT IG-00 51 230P 16 31 OPC3 NAVAIDE CNO DEPLASSIFIED VCNO 52 E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(R) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Offter in person. (See Art. 76 (4) VREGS) By DBS Date OPNAY-NCR-18 110641 300 Lowespac MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET a WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER In INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon OHQ SWPA To: WAR 0 364 Ft Shafter TH No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 11 January 1944 C 364 from GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department 00 Hawaiian Department CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMDEL AMMISCA. Operations report SOUWESPAC area. 13002/9 to 1300z/10 signed MacArthur. New Ireland: Catalina reports 1 possible light cruiser 3 destroyers 3 large merchant vessels heading Rebaul off west coast midnight January 9. New Guinea: Wewak: fighter patrols report 35 enemy fighters airborne, 30 on Boram runvay. Hansa Bay: 2 small cargo vessels on south easterly course reported night January 9 by attacking Catalina; fighter patrols January 9 report large concentrations supplies and barges from Hansa Bay to Uligan. End of part 1. Part 2. North Eastern area. Land. Arave: patrols report no contact. Cape Gloucester: no contact airdrome perimeter, 2 counter attacks from Borgen Bay repulsed, artillery shelled enemy positions DECLASSIFIED 59 CM-IN-6867 (11 Jan 44) E.O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D)-ber (S) (8) 300 Sowespas OSD COPY/Nd?? THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DRS Date MAY 21 1022 DECI ASSIFIED SECRET 2 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 2 To: WAR C 364 Ft Shafter TH No # New Caledonia No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 11 January 1944 also destroyed 2 troop laden barges; estimated 2,100 enemy killed since landing. Kalasa: Coastal Forces forced enemy withdrawal from vell prepared strong point north vest Kelanoa, advanced north along coast overoame second strong point south east Scharnhorst Point; artillery shelled Gneisenau Point. Saidor: outpost 10 miles south east remains in contact. Naval: PT's sank 3 of 14 north bound troop laden barges west Sio night January of also des- troyed 6 beached barges vest Pommern Bay. Air. Operations Jenuary 9: (1). Night B24 bombed 2 boats Alexishafen. (2). Night Catalina attacked convoy south Kavien4 scored hit on destroyer, Vessel left smoking; second Catalina bombed and strafed 2 small cargo vessels North Hansa Bay left 1 burning and stationary in oil slick; third Catalina missing. (3). 2 RAAF Beaufighters strafed Wide Bay ares, 2 RAAF P40's strafed Cape Hoskins area. (4). 4 P47's destroyed 1 probably des- troyed another of 18 fighters engaged over Wevak. (5). 9 P40's, 16 P38's strafed Uligan area left 2 barges burning silenced gun position, DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-6867 (11 Jan 44) E.O. 11652, Bec. S(E) and 6(D) or (B) OSD letter, May , 1939 By DBS COPY.,NOT 01 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET 2 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 3 To: WAR 0 364 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 11 January 1944 started fire building area. (6). 2 P38's strafed Alexishafen destroyed 2 grounded fighters, hit gun positions. (7). 30 B25's, 9 B26's 2 P39's bombed and strafed Bogadjim/Erima/B1l1 Bill area caused fires, destroyed machine gun positions and supplies. (8). 2 P39's damaged barge vest Gauss Point. (9). 10 B25's bombed and strafed barge center Gali (Sarevak Bay), heavy jungle obscured results. Operations January 10: (10). 12 A20's bombed and strafed targets designated by ground forces Borgen Bay. (11). 2 P38's destroyed 1 of 42 fighters over Wevak. (12). 40 B25's bombed and strafed Yaula/ Bogadjim area during morning destroyed 2, damaged other bridges started number fires through supply and bivouse areas, caused explosions. Northwestern area. Air operations January 10: (13). 6 Dutch B25's bombed Koepang caused fires; 4 others bombed Lautem with unobserved results. End of part 2. DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. B(R) and 5(D) or (8) OSD letter, May 4, 1973 CM-IN-6867 (11 Jan 44) By DBS CORMeNo. MAY 22 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 4 To: WAR C 364 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 11 January 1944 Part 3. Weather. Broken high and middle cloud generally, frontal zone North Western Bismarck Sea and Wevak area with thick veather over Nev Britain Vitiax Strait and Northern Solomon See, mainly favourable else- where during daylight hours; North Western area favourable with scattered clouds except for unsettled conditions Banda Sea North East Arafure Sea and North West New Guines. Air. (1). 3.1000 10 1/10 second delay bombs dropped from 1000 feet. (2). 1 500 10 general purpose bomb dropped: from 150 feet on destroyer; dropped 4 650 1b depth bombs fired unstated number rounds at cargo vessels. (3). 1000 rounds 30 calibre, 350 rounds 20 MM fired by Beaufighters. (4). No details, combat at 20000 feet. (5). 1900 rounds 50 calibre spent by P38's in strafing. (6). No details; met slight heavy inscourate antisircraft fire. (7). 50 instantaneous demolition, 4 1/10 second delay 3 4/5sesonds delay 1000 lb bombs, 54 500 1b bombs dropped from 8000 to 5000 feet. (8). No details. (9). 25 300 lb, 40 250 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay bombs dropped from 150 to 25 feet, 22,500 rounds 50, 3,400 rounds 30 calibre strafing. R. O. 11662, Bec. 1(B) and 6(D) or (E) OSD letter, May, & 1972 CM-IN-6867 (11 Jan 44) S By DBS COPY No. AV&T 192% THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356. Sec. 33 or Sec 3.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA Page 5 To: WAR C 364 Ft Shafter No # Nev Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 11 January 1944 (10). 54 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 18000 rounds 50 calibre, 72 rounds 20 MM spent in strafing. (11). 650 rounds 50 calibre spent in combat at 16000 feet. (12). 121 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude, 26 1000 1b, 25 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 7000 feet; 12,600 rounds 50, 4400 rounds 30 calibre, 71 rounds 75 MM spent in strafing. (13). 18 500 1b, 33 100 lb, 18 clusters 20 1b fragmentation bombs dropped from 10,000 to 6000 feet Koepang; 48 100 1b instantaneous demolition, 24 clusters 20 1b fragmentation bombs dropped from 9000 feet Inutem, moderate heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire. No S1g ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAF CC/S (CAPT. ROYAL, USN) THINK HOUSE ADM. KING GEN. VANDEGRIFT LOG DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS Date RAY CM-IN-6867 (11 Jan 44) COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER the INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Brisbane To: Ft Shafter No # Nev Caledonia, NOUMEA No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # War C 336 10 January, 1944 From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department CG Havaiian Department CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC AMMISCA AMMDEL New Hanover: Report of operations SOWESPAC Area period 1300Z/8 to 1300Z/9 signed MacArthur. One destroyer 17000 ton transport 4 medium freighters sighted 63 miles South West midnight January 8th; 2 vessels sighted 90 miles South 2 hours later. New Guinea: Wevak: 30 fighters encountered air- borne by P47's midday January 8th; 4 unidentified mérchant vessela reported heading North from area early morning January 9th. Uligan Harbour: 56 barges in Uligan, Koronprinx and Bunabun Harbours sighted by fighter escort after- noon January 8th. Bogadjim: Air reconnaissance reports 4 bridges on Ramu Road vashed away. Northwestern area: Celebes: B24's attacking Kendari report 6 float planes Tomes Island, many small craft off Binongko Island. Western Australia: Allied vessel reported torpedo attack 130 miles South West Exmouth Gulf January 9th. End of part 1. CM-IN-6303 (10 Jan 44) DECLASSIER OSD thite letter. Max 1978 59 300 Sowespac E.O. 11652 Bec. 3(B) and 5(D) or (B) By DBS COPY NOMAY 21 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page 2 PRIORITY From: Brisbane To: Ft Shafter Nov Caledonia, NOUMEA No New Delhi No Chungking No = No # War C 336 10 January, 1944 Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land. Arave: Patrols met little organized resistance, enemy snipers active. Cape Gloucester: Forces South Silimati Point consolidated nev line; isolated patrol contacts South Airdrome. 1 Kalasa: Enemy machine gun nests North West Kelanoa silenced by artillery fire. Saidor: Allied outpost 10 miles South East attacked by small enemy force, 8 onemy killed. Naval: Destroyers shelled barge Centre Gali (25 miles South East Saidor) morning and evening January 8, started fires. PT's sank 11 loaded barges along Rai Coast. Air. Enemy action: 2 raids reported Cape Gloucester evening January 8th, light raid Arave next morning; Ground Forces report shooting down 1 aircraft and other probable Saidor night January 5. Operations January 8: (1) Patrolling B24 bombed Lindenhafen, destroyed buildings. (2) B24 unsuccessfully bombed convoy South West New Hanover. (3) 15 RAAF Beauforts bombed Tobera and Lakunai Airdromes, started large fires; 2 others bombed Matupi Island defences, 1 bombed Cape Siar (South East New DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-6303 (10 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. S(E) and 8(D) or (E) OSD letter, May , 1972 By DBS COPY No. Date MAY 31 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Page 3 INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Brisbane To: War C 336 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia, NOUMEA No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 10 January, 1944 Ireland), 1 bombed Cape Saint George, 4 returned due mechanical trouble. (4) Two RAAF Beaufighters destroyed 5 barges Wide Bay. (5) 12 RAAF P40's strafed Savmill Area Waterfall Bay. (6) 6A20's bombed and strafed Didmop Village Area (Arave). (7) 16 P47's patrolling over Wevak shot down 1 of 30 enemy fighters sighted. (8) 16 P40's searching coast strafed and left 3 barges afire Uligan. (9) 12 B25's bombed and strafed Coast Kronprinz Harbour to Kumil River, silenced anti aircraft guns damaged 2 luggers started large fires; P38's covered. (10) Five B24's bombed Madang gun positions, started large oil fire. (11) 13 B25's bombed Gorima Village (South Madang) started fires in dump areas; 3 B25's bombed Bill Bili; 8 P39's strafed coast, destroyed barge. (12) P47's strafed 5 barges off Kiari. Operations January 9: (13) Two RAAF Beaufighters destroyed launch off Cape Dampier. DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 8(D) or (E) CM-IN-6303 (10 Jan 44) OSD letter, May , 1972 59 By DBS COPY 21 197 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET , WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER 4 INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Brisbane To: War C 336 Ft Shafter No # Nev Caledonia, NOUMEA No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # IO January, 1944 (14) 24 B24's bombed gun positions Alexishafen, caused large explosions started large fires, P40's escorted. (15) 24 B25's bombed and heavily strafed supply qumps and anti aircraft positions Erima Plantation (Bogadjim), started fires. Northvestern Area: (16) 20 B24's to attack Kendari (Celebes): 2 failed take off, 2 salvoed bombs, 2 bombed Binongko Island, 1 raided Tomes Island, 13 hit barracks and dispersal areas at target, weather obscured results; 6 of 13 enemy fighters intercepting shot down 4 others probably destroyed; 1 B24 lost. Solomons. SOUPAC Forces. Land: 1 Patrols North and East Torokina active; 1 Company landed Kuraio Mission 20 miles North West Torokina. Naval: Light cruisers and destroyers bombarded Shortland, Faisi and Poporang night January 8, started large fires; PT's engaged 5 barges Torau Bay. Air. Operations January 9: (17) Venturas bombed Poporang, B25 raided Kahili; 2 Avengers bombed villages Empress Augusta Bay, starting fires; 8 P39's strafed Tinputz Area, 8 B25's bombed Buka seaplane base. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-6303 (10 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 100 and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, - 53 1972 MAY 211973 By DBS COPY-No THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED 1. 2.4 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE?oge 5 PRIORITY From: Brisbane To: War 0336 Ft Shafter No # Nev Caledonia, NOUMEA No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # (18) Two Squadrons Liberators to bomb Vunakan au, some bombed through cloud others hit Buka on return; same time 23 Dauntless 16 Avengers bombed Tobera runvay and anti aircraft positions, destroyed 1 aircraft on ground; 7 squadrons fighters covered, shot down 16 of 40 intercepting fighters probably destroyed 1 other, 3 Allied fighters lost. Part 3. Weather. Scattered showers, increasing low cloud over ranges in afternoon and over sea at night; broken middle cloud through Flores and Banda Seas lov cloud farther north. Air. (1) 2 by 500 1b .025 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from 8000 feet. (2) Three by 1000 1b bombs dropped from 2000 feet. (3) 30 by 500 lb, 49 by 250 1b general purpose instantaneous rod extension fuse, 7 by 250 1b incondiary with 20 1b fray attachment dropped from 13000 to 10000 feet Tobera and Gakvnai, 8 by 500 lb, 16 by 250 1b general purpose instantaneous rod extension fuse bombs dropped Matupi Island, Cape Saint George and Cape Siarv, slight to moderate medium and heavy insccurate anti aircraft fire. (4) 500 rounds 20 MM, 1500 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from 500 to 20 feet. (5) 2900 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from 50 feet. (6) 23 by 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 500 to 100 feet; 10,000 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing. DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11652, Sec. 1(E) and 5(D) or (B) CM-IN-6303 (10 Jan 44) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS DENLY MAT 21 1973 COPY 59 No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Page 6 INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Brisbane To: War 0336 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia, NOUMEA No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 10 January 1944 (7) 200 rounds 50 calibre fires in combat. (8) No details received. (9) 48 by 300 1b, 40 by 250 1b, 7 by 200 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demolition bombs dropped from 150 feet and under; 14900 rounds 50, 3500 rounds 36 caliber fired in strafing; elight to moderate accurate to inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. (10) 40 by 1000 1b instantanecus demolition bombs dropped from 9000 feet; moderate heavy inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (11) 48 by 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9300 to 7000 feet Gorima; 3 by 1000 1b 1/10 seconds delay, 3 by 1000 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 6000 feet Bill Bill; No details re- coived P39's. (12) No details received. (13) 500 rounds 20 MM, 500 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing from minimum altitude. (14) 175 by1000 1b instantaneous bombs dropped from 9300 to 7200 feet; slight medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (15) 161 by 300 1b 8 to 11 seconds delay bombs dropped from 150 feet and under; 150 rounds 75 MM, 20,700 rounds 50, 6500 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight to moderate accurate to insccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. (16) 64 by 500 1b, 65 clusters 20 1b fragmentation, 13 by 500 1b incendiary bombs dropped Kendari from 15,500 DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-6303 (10 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Bec. I(R) and 8(D) of (S) OSD letter May A 1972 By DBS COPY NAY 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN 59 DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET 1 WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING PRIORITY MESSAGE 7 From: Brisbane To: War C 336 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia, NOUMEA No # Nev Delhi No # Chungking No # 10 January 1944 to 14000 feet, 16 by 500 1b demolition, 2 by 500 1b incendiary bombs jettisoned, 16 by 500 1b demolition, 10 by 500 1b incendiary bombs dropped from 10,000 feet Ainongko Island, 13 clusters 20 1b fragmontation bombs, 1 by 500 1b incendiary dropped Tomes Island from 12000 feet; slight to moderate medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire Kendari; Aerial bombs dropped by intercepting air- craft. No Sig. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: G-2 CG AAF FIELD MARSHAL DILL ADM KING CCS (CAPT ROYAL, USN) GEN VANDEGRIFT WHITE HOUSE LOG CM-IN-6303 (10 Jan 44) 17052 mcs DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11062 Sec. add and 8(D) of (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS S D=WAY 211995 COPY NO. 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM" DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE CLNCSQNESPAC ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE I FROM (coll 7TH FLT) PRICERPP 2 a RELEASED BY 10 JAN 1944 FOR ACTION COMINCH 4 ROUTINE 5 DATE DEFERRED 6 7 TOR CODEROOM 1142 8 CNO PPPP 9 DECODED BY STRICKLAND CINCPAC PRIORITY 10 INFORMATION 11 PARAPHRASED COM 3RD FLT ROUTINE BY SMITH 12 DEFERRED 13 ROUTED BY HARRINGTON 14 BMLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL If TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE AND M ADMINISTRATIVE 15 IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 100641 17 NCR 2329 18 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: 19 DATE TIME OCT 20 ON ORTGOINE DISPATENES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT DNE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 7-0 22 23 COM 7TH FLT PASSES FOR CINCSOMESPAC ACTION COMINCH F-01 24 INFO CNO CINCPAC COM 3RD FLT. SIGNED MAGARTHUR. F-02 25 26 F-05 27 F-07 28 CAPE GLOUCESTER RESUPPLY FOHP LST 400 REACHED BEACHES 29 F-1 30 THIS MORNING. 5 LST 403 CHICH SUPPLIED SAIDOR ARE RE- F-2 31 32 TURNING TO SUDEST ARRIVING 11TH. ARAWE HAD 4 LCT FROM F-20 33 CRETIN THIS MORNING TO RETURN UNDER COVER DARKNESS TO- 2 34 35 7-30 35 NIGHT. NIGHT 9TH 4 PT'S ALONG NEW GUINEA COAST NORTH F-31 37 as AND SOUTH SAIDOR SANK 1 LARGE GARGE AND 10 70 FOOTERS F-32 39 1 LOADED WITH TROOPS 1 AMMUNITION AND 8 MISCELLANEOUS. F-33 40 41 F-34 42 SAME PT'S DESTROYED 40 TO 50 FLOATING FOOD BOXES AND I 43 44 3 50 GALLON DRUMS DIESEL OIL FLOATING POMMERN BAY. FX01 45 FX30 46 BLACK CAT EA LY MORNING 10TH STRAFED SET FIRE TO 1 UN- 47 FX37 48 IDENTIFIED CHIP NEAR HANSA BAY. FX40 49 so COULINGH ACT. IG-00 51 2nc DECLASSIRED VCNO 52 E. O. 11652, Bec. 3(E) and 5(1)) or E Make original only. Deliver to Code,Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS.) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 OPNAV-NCR-18 300 Somespace By DBS MAY 01 100641 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 / AVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE 1 ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE FROM CINCSOWESPAC PPPPPPPPP PRIORITY 3 4 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION ROUTINE 5 DATE 9 JAN 1944 COMINCH DEFERRED 6. 7 TOR CODEROOM 1741/9 * 9 0 DECODED BY STRICKLAND INFORMATION CNO PPPPPPPPP CINCPAC 11 PARAPHRASED ROUTINE 12 BY RIEHL COM 3RD FLT DEFERRED 13 WIDMAN 11 ROUTED BY is UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DISPATCH WILL If TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE ANJ 41 ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 090829 NCR 1907 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTSCING DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE REFORE REGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 F-0 22 23 COM 11TH FLT PASSING FOR CINCSOWESPAC. ACTION COMINCH F-01 24 INFO CNO, CINCPAC, APL COM 3RD FLT. F-02 25 26 F-05 27 3 MILES NORTH POMMERN BAY NORTHWEST SAIDOR PT'S SANK F-07 28 29 F-1 30 5 LOADED BARGES 2 WITH TROOPS NIGHT 7-8 AND DESTROYED F-2 31 32 2 RICE LOADED FOOD RAFTS. BLACK CAT ON BARGE SWEEP F-20 33 34 STRAFED AND DAMAGED 2 BARGES SARANG HARBOR NORTH MADANG.-3 35 F-30 36 6 LST, 4 DD'S AT SAIDOR THIS MORNING AND 6 LST'S, 4 DD'8 F-31 37 38 RETURNING FROM SAIDOR. 4 LST, A DD'S RETURNED SUDEST F-32 39 40 FROM GLOUCESTER AREA RESUPPLY 4 LST, 4DD'S ARRIVING 10TH 433 41 F-34 42 PETO RETURNED FROM PATROL NOVEMBER 4. JANUARY 7 REPORTS 43 44 SINKING 8200 TON AK. 2 DD'S OF ESCORT CROUP BOMBARDED FX01 45 46 GASI POINT (APPROXIMATELY 20 MILES EAST OF SAIDOR) WHILE FX30 47 FX37 48 PASSING ENROUTE SAIDOR EARLY MORNING OF 8TH AND AGAIN 49 FX40 50 WHILE RETURNING SAME EVENING. SMALL BUT INTENSE FIRES IG-00 51 52 VCNO DECLASSIONED 11652. See. S(12) and B(D) or (E) Make original only, Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer is person. (See Art. 76 (4) NATREGS.) OPNAY-NCH-15 090829 300 Somespac OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS MAY 21 1973° DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 WAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE - IN FROM PRIORITY a 4 RELEASED BY FOR ACTION ROUTINE 5 DEFERRED = DATE 7 * TOR CODEROOM 9 PRIORITY to DECODED BY PARAPHRASED BY INFORMATION 11 ROUTINE 12 DEFERRED 13 11 ROUTED BY IS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED THIS DIEPATOR WELL II TRANSMITTED WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE AND is ADMINISTRATIVE IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW PAGE 2 OF 9829 NCR 1907 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 ON OUTSCONS DISPATCHES PLEASE LEAVE ABOUT ONE INCH CLEAR SPACE BEFORE BEGINNING TEXT ACTION 21 22 F-0 23 F-01 24 F-02 25 26 F-05 STARTED STILL BURNING AN HOUR LATER. SGD MACARTHUR. 27 F-07 28 29 F-1 30 F-2 31 32 F-20 33 34 F-3 35 F-30 36 COMINCH....ACT 37 F-31 as F-32 20G....OP03... 39 F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 44 FX01 45 46 FX30 47 FX37 48 49 FX40 50 IG-00 51 52 VCNO SECRET DECLASSIRED E. O. 11652, Bec. S(E) and N(D) or (B) Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NARRESS) OSD better, May 1, 1972 OPNAV-NCH-15 By DBS Date DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT NARA Date SECRET SOUTH & SOUTHNEST PACIFIC LATRE Major John Babe, 8 January, 1944. DAILY TACTICAL REPORT Southwest Facific. CM-1N #4901, from Rear Echelon O.H.Q., dated 8 January, 1944. ESTIMATED ENEMY ORDER OF BATTLE FOR NEEX ENDING 7 January, 1944. Last week's Fighters Bombers FL. B. PL. P. Ob. Total Total. New Britain 116 65 2 24 4 211 152 New Ireland 20 18 - 12 - 50 54 New Guinea 95 99 - 6 3 203 179 Solomons - - - 8 - 8 8 Sub Total 231 182 2 50 7 472 393 Timor 10 6 - - 4 20 20 Ambon 15 - 3 6 - 24 24 Aroe & Kei Is. 15 6 - - - 21 21 Halmahera 6 - - 6 - 12 12 Dutch New Guinea 21 - - 9 - 30 30 Celebes 42 16 - 16 - 74 91 Javi-Bali-Lombok 60 43 9 16 - 128 146 Borneo 18 - 1 12 - 31 31 Philippines 74 12 - 16 - 102 102 Sub Total 261 83 13 81 4 442 477 492 265 15 131 11 914 870 DECLARATED 300 Sowespic E. O. 11652, Boc. 2(1) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May & 1972 F By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C 254 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 8th January, 1944. Operations report SOWESPAC Area period 13002/6 to 13002/7 signed MacArthur. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff War Department, to Commanding General Hawaiian Department, to Commanding General USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, to CG AM- MISOA, to CG AMMDEL. Bougainville: Kieta: Photographs January 6 show no change airdrome or harbour. Buka: Two large merchant vessels entered pas- sage evening January 7. New Ireland: Mussau Island: Two destroyers 2 tankers 2 auxillary vessels sighted 120 miles northwest on south easterly course afternoon January 7. Kavieng: Two large merchant vessels 1 10,000 ton tanker, 3 5000 ton vessels reported in harbour by SOUPAC B-24 morning January 7. Borpop: Photographs January 6 show 1 medium bomber, runvay serviceable. DECLASSIFIED B 0/11652 and 6(D) or (E) CM-IN-5166 (8 Jan 44) Whate All DBS 45D letter, May Date 3 1972 300 Sorvespace COPY No. MAY 21 1979 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN DECLASSIFIED E.O. 12356 Sec 34 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE #2 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C 254 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 8th January, 1944. New Britain: Rein Bay: Gun emplacements and well used road sighted vicinity Cape Neumayer. Northvestern Area: Timor: One 3,000 ton merchant vessel 1 sea truck 4 harges heading south east sighted off Romang Island. (End part 1) Part 2. Northeastern Area. Land. Arave: Patrols attacked strong enemy position 600 yards east MIR met heavy machine gun fire. Gloucester: Attack south continued reached hill 660 (2800 yards south Silimati Point), 200 enem, killed; extensive patrolling airdrome pe- rimeter. Kalasa: Patrols north Dollman River no contact, patrols inlaed killed 10 captured 3 enemy. Saidor: Consolidation perimeter continues. Air. Operations January 6: (1) Reconnaissance B24 bombed Anwek River bridge (Gasmata). (2) Four P39s strafed 2 well camouflaged barges Rein Bay, observed explosion. (3) Twelve B25s bombed and strafed areas South West coast Borgen Bay as designated by Ground Forces, P38s covered. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-5166 (8 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Bee. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS COPYING 21 1973 59 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Page #3 From: INCOMING MESSAGE To: War C 254 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 8th January, 1944. (4) Seventeen B24s bombed anti aircraft positions Alexishafen, silenced guns started fires caused explosions; P38s covered. (5) Thirty-six A20s, 10 B25a bombed bridges and bivouace on Bogadjim Road, damaged two bridges, entire area heavily strafed. (6) Nine B25a, 4 P39s bombed and strafed targets Gausy Point to Vincke Point, destroyed barge caused explosion in possible stores area, fighters also strafed machine gun positions Erima Plantation. Operations January 7: (7) Reconnaissance B24 bombed Lindenhafen Plantation. (8) Night Catalina bombed Garove Island; second Catalina scored hit on and destroyed 5000 ton auxillary oiler, possibly hit 2 ao- companying sea trucks Isumrud Strait (North Madang). (9) Eighteen B24s bombed enemy positions on hill south vest coast Borgen Bay, caused large explosion. (10) Twenty-four B24s escorted by P38s bombed anti aircraft positions Alexishafen, report area well covered, silenced positions started large fires. (11) Twelve B25s bombed and strafed Bogad- jim Road, destroyed bridge silenced anti air craft position. (12) Nine B25a 4 P47s bombed and strafed possible bivouse areas Weber to Vinoks Point. CM-IN-5166 (8 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, See. 2(2) and 6(D) or 59 OSI COPY No. 1972 MAY 21 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS Date ASCIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT Page #4 CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER From: INCOMING MESSAGE To: War C 254 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No 8th January, 1944. Northwestern Area. Air. Enemy action: Single floatplane bombed and strafed Aram Village (120 miles east South East Kaukenau). Operations: (13) Seven B24s bombed Boela started fires, also bombed shipping Manokwari with un- observed results. (14) Patrolling RAAF Hudson unsucces- sfully bombed shipping off Romang Island (North Timor), strafed barges same area, left one beached; one enemy fighter ineffectively inter- cepted. Solomons. SOUPAC Forces. Naval: PTs engaged 3 barges North Torau Bay, caused damage. LCI equipped as gunboat haras- sed Choiseul Bay. Air. Operations January 6thr (15) Six B25a 3 Venturas bombed and strafed buildings and machine gun positions Choiseul Bay. (16) Night Ventura bombed Poporang, 10 B25s bombed and damaged gun positions Tonolei Harbour. (17) Three Avengers destroyed huts Mosiget- ta Area. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-5166 (8 Jan 44) 2. O. 11652, Bec. I(E) and 5(D) or (B) OSD letter, May 1, 59 COPY No. By DBS THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN MAY 21 1973 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Page #5 From: To: INCOMING MESSAGE Pt Shafter No # New Caledonia No New Delhi No Chungking No # 8th January ,1944. (18) P38s shot down 9 probably des- troyed 4 other fighters engaged over Rabcul; 2 P38s missing; fighters also ralded Borpop Airdrome and coastal area, destroyed 2 ground- ed bombers; single Corsair over Saint Georges Channel shot down 1 of 20/30 enemy fighters contacted. Operations January 7th: (19) Ventura dropped incendiaries on Morgusiai (Shortlands). (20) Eighteen Avengers 24 Dauntless to bomb Tobera turned back by weather, bombed radio station Cape Saint George, caused fires destroyed gun positions; 8 squadrons fighters covering shot down 10 probably destroyed 2 others of 40/70 intercepting fighters (pre- liminary report) our losses 3 Hellcats (2 collided) 2 Dauntless, (21) Incomplete report states 10 of 20 scheduled B24s bombed Vunakanau. Part 3. Weather. General conditions mostly favour- able with broken cloud and scattored showers but adverse during late hours; Northwestern Area scattered showers but mainly favourable except for bad weather caused by frontal zone Southern Celebes through Northern Timor and Tanimbare extending to Northwestern Dutch Nev Guinea. Air. (1) 4 500 lb instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8000 feet; moderate light and medium inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (2) Unstated number rounds 50 calibre and 37 MM fired in strafing from 2000 feet to minimum alti- tude. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-5166 (8 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Bee. S(E) and 5(D) or (E) OSD letter. May 1, 1972 COPY No. 59 By DBS Date THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN MAY 21 1973 DECI ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER Page #6 From: INCOMING MESSAGE To: War C 254 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 8th January, 1944. (3) 96 300 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay bombs dropped from 500 to 50 feet; 19,800 rounds 50, 1700 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing. (4) 102 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9,500 to 5500 feet; 1400 rounds 50, 100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight to moderate medium and heavy accurate to inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (5) 54 500 1b instantaneous demolition, 15 300 1b, 132 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds dely bombs drop- ped from 5300 feet to minimum altitude; 8 rounds 75, 92 rounds 20MM, 25,800 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing from 800 to 100 feet; slight to intense light inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (6) 25 300 lb, 22 300 1b vire wrapped 4 to 5 secnds delay bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 22,500 rounds 50, 600 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing by B25s; no details received P39s. (7) 2 1000 lb, 2 100 1b torpex 1/10 second de- lay bombs dropped from 10,000 feet. (8) No details received. (9) 216 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 8000 to 6500 feet. (10) 184 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 9300 to 7500 feet; slight to in- tense medium and heavy accurate to inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (11) 37 300 1b, 42 250 1b 4 to 5 seconds de- lay bombs dropped from 200 feet and under; 17,000 rounds 50, 5000 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing; slight accurate and inaccurate anti aircraft fire of all calibres. DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-5166 (8 Jan 44) E. O. 11652, Sec. 3(E) and 5(D) or (11) OSD legies May 1972 COPY No. 59 By DBS Date THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS-FORBIDDEN MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER INCOMING MESSAGE Page #7 From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: War C 254 Ft Shafter No # New Caledonia No # New Delhi No # Chungking No # 8th January, 1944. (12) 104 100 1b 4 to 5 seconds delay demoli- tion bombs dropped from minimum altitude; 24,300 rounds 50 calibre fired in strafing by B25a; no details received P47s. (13) 13 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 10,000 feet Boela, 23 at ship- ping Manokwari from 16,000 feet; intense inaccur- ate anti aircraft fire of all calibres Boela, in- tense heavy insccurate Manokvari, slight modium inaccurate from vessel in harbour. (14) 2 250 lb general purpose 11 seconds tail delay bombs dropped from 4200 feet; 1100 rounds 30 calibre fired in strafing barges from 190 feet, 1000 rounds at intercepting aircraft; moderate medium accurate anti aircraft fire from freighter transport. No Sig. ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CG AAF Admiral King General Vandegrift CC/S (Captain Royal USN) White House Field Marshal Dill Log DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-5166 (8 Jan 44) 2020Z med E. O. 11652, Bee. 2(1) and 6(D) or 59 OSD letter, May 1, 1972 S By DBS CORY.,No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED NAVAL MESSAGE NAVY DEPARTM DRAFTER EXTENSION NUMBER ADDRESSEES PRECEDENCE CINC SUPA ASTERISK (*) MAILGRAM ADDRESSEE PPP - (CCM 7TH FLT) 2 FROM PRIORITY 3 4 FOR ACTION COMINCH RELEASED BY ROUTINE JAN 7. 1944 5 DEFERRED 6 DATE 71232 7 PPP 8 TOR CODEROOM SCHNETDER 9 DECODED BY CNO PRIORITY 10 BRUCE INFORMATION CINCPAC 11 PARAPHRASED ROUTINE COM 3RD FLEET 12 BY REEGAN DEFERRED 13 14 ROUTED BY 15 WITH DEFERRED PRECEDENCE AND AS ADMINISTRATIVE 77737 NCR 465 IF OPERATIONAL 16 CHECK BELOW 17 18 19 ORIGINATOR FILL IN DATE AND TIME: DATE TIME GCT 20 (CINC BLPA SLX SEVENTH WAVE APOVILANE INCH FLEET CLEAR SPACE TC BEFORE COMINCH. BEGINNING TQT ACTION 21 I NFC CNC CINCPAC AND COM THIRD FLEET.) F-0 22 23 F-01 24 4 LST'S, 4 DD'S ARRIVED GLOUCESTER EARLY THIS F-02 25 26 F-05 EVENING. 6 LST'S, 4 DD'S 3 PC'S ENROUTE SAIDOR DUE 27 F-07 28 29 EARLY MORNING 8TH. STRINGHAM, NOA, KILTY, WARD, F-1 30 CROSBY DEPARTED FOR SUPAC AFTER TEMPORARY DUTY F-2 31 32 F-20 THIS AREA. NIGHT 6-7 PT PATROLS TURNED BACK DUE 33 F-3 34 35 HEAVY WEATHER BUT BLACK CATS SANK 5100 TON AO OFF F-30 36 37 KAR KAR ISLAND, POSSIBLY BOMB HIT 1 OF 2 ESCORTING F-31 38 F-32 39 SC'S. OTHER SC STRAFFED AND LEFT SMOKING. F-33 40 41 F-34 42 F-4 43 LIMITED DISTRIBUTION: 44 FX01 45 COMINCH, ACTION 46 FX30 47 19...19C 16 20C CNO FX37 48 49 FX40 50 IG-00 51 52 VCNO SECRET DECLASSIFIED E. O. 11652, See. 3(B) and 5(D) or (E) Make original only. Deliver to Code Room Watch Officer in person. (See Art. 76 (4) NAVREGS) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 OPNAY-NCH-15 070737 300 Sowespac By DBS Date MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED E. O. 12356, Sec. 3.3 or Sec. 3.4 NLR 101 By RT, NARA, Date 4/13/94 SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER hm INCOMING MESSAGE OPERATIONAL PRIORITY From: Rear Echelon GHQ SWPA To: WAR C 215 Nev Caledonia No# Fort Shafter No# Nev Delhi No# Chungking No# 7th January 1944 C 215. Operations report SOUWESPAC Area period 13002/5 to 13002/6 signed MacArthur. From GHQ SWPA to Chief of Staff WD, CG Hawaiian Dept, CG USAFISPA pass to COMSOPAC, AMMDEL and AMMISCA. New Hanover: Destroyer escorting large unidentified vessel reported by Catalina heading north off Cape Matan- alem midnight January 5; 2 night fighters intercepted Cat- alina. New Britain: 4 cargo vessels 3 small ships sighted in harbour Duke of York Island Midday January 5. New Guinea: Bogia: 8 barges loaded with troops sighted entering Sarang Harbour midnight January 5. Sio: 1 aircraft reported sighting 20 barges proceed- ing north west up coast off Teliata Point with 4 on shore midday January 5. North Western Area: Timor: Natives report enemy pat- rols along south coast. End of part one. Part two. II North Eastern Area. Land. Arave: Extensive patrol activity, no contact. 11 ive patrols report no contact. Cape Gloucester: Further consolidation airdrome, act- CM-IN-4236 (7 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED 300 Somespac E. O. 11662, Sec. 1(B) and 5(D) X or (II) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 45, By DBS COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN ASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER From: INCOMING MESSAGE To: New Caledonia No# Fort Shafter No# New Delhi No# Chungking No# 7th January 1944 Kalasa: Forward elements hold Tellman River. Saidor: Light contact reported 11 miles south east; MLR expanded. Naval. PT's damaged 2 barges off Nambariva. Air. Operations: (1) 5 RAAF Catalinas to attack Kavieng Air- drome night January 5; 2 failed take off, 1 returned due weather, 1 bombed Gasmata caused explosion and large fire, 1 bombed target causing 2 large fires (possibly aircraft). (2) Night Catalina unsuccessfully bombed destroy- er and large merchant vessel north New Hanover; second Cat- alina heavily strafed 8 troop laden barges Sarang Harbour (North Madang), also strafed boat Stephan Strait. (3) Reconnaissance B-24 bombed 3 barges Rein Fay. (4) 2 RAAF Beaufighters strafed and damaged 2 boats Cape Dampier. (5) 17 P-47's strafed 8 barges Kronprins Harbour. (6) Further 12 B-24's bombed bivouses and anti aircraft positions Alexishafen January 5, started fires. (7) Further 7 B-25's bombed Yaula/Bogadjim road January 5 caused terrific explosion in supply dumps start- ed fires, destroyed truck. (8) Next day 5 B-26's bombed road caused explo- sions. (9) 8 P-40's, 4 P-39's searched Rai Coast January 5, destroyed or badly damaged 11 barges. CM-IN-4236 (7 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED 2. O. 11652, Bec. (E) and 5(D) or and OSD letter, COPY No. THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE ABSBIDDEN Data MAY 21 1973 DECLASSIFIED SECRET WAR DEPARTMENT CLASSIFIED MESSAGE CENTER To: From: INCOMING Page-3- New Caledonia No# MESSAGE Fort Shafter No# Nev Delhi No# Chungking Not 7th January (10) Next day 15 P-47's destroyed 2 barges Reise Point. Solomons: SOUPAC forces. Land: Increased patrol activity Torokina Area; anti aircraft crews Treasury Island claim attacking float plane possibly destroyed. Air Operations January 5t (11) B-25's bombed and heavily strafed enemy concentrations Choiseul Bay. (12) 6 B-24's bombed Popovang, 3 bombed Kahili supply dumps, 2 attacked Tonolei, 1 raided Fauro Island. (13) Fighters strafed Piano Mission (Empress Augusta Bay), 24 Dauntless turned back from Rabaul raid bombed and strafed enemy bivounce Mosigetta. (14) 9 B-25's bombed Haheld Mission (Buka). (15) 7 Corsairs searching Rabaul Area strafed Gazelle Peninsula Coast, destroyed 2 troop laden barges Blanche Bay. (16) Carrier force off Kavieng January 4 re- port shooting down extra bomber; delayed report states additional 2 bombers destroyed in raid December 25. (17) B-24 bombed and damaged tug Emirau Island. End of part two. Part three. Weather: Generally unsettled with frequent showers and thunderstorms, broken middle cloud with low cloud formations increasing during late hours; north western area mainly favourable except for frontal sone over Aroe Islands and Tanimbars. CM-IN-4236 (7 Jan 44) DECLASSIFIED E. 0. 11052, Sec. a(E) and B(D) of (II) OSD letter, May 1, 1972 By DBS CORYMY 2 1 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN SECRET From: Rear Echelon PARTMENTMENT Page-4- To: WAR CLASSIFIED SAGE CENTER Ney Caledonie For New Dolhi MESSAGE Chungking No# 7th January 1944 Air: (1) 8 by 250 lb general purpose 50 by 30 1b incendiary bombs dropped from 8000 feet on each Gasmata and Kavieng; nil anti aircraft fire. (2) No details of bomb loads; intense light anti aircraft fire from destroyer. (3) 2 by 1000 lb 1/10 second delay bombs drop- ped from 7000 feet. (4) 250 rounds 20 MM, 10,000 rounds 30 calibre fired from minimum altitude. (5) No details. (6) 72 by 1000 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 15,000 feet; moderate heavy accurate and inaccurate anti aircraft fire. (7) 24 by 50C 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 7,800 feet. (8) 30 by 500 1b instantaneous demolition bombs dropped from 5000 feet, (9) No details. (10) No details. Nosig ACTION: OPD INFORMATION: 0-2 CGAAF White House Field, Marshal Dill CC/S (Capt Royal, USN) Admiral King General Vandegrift LOG DECLASSIFIED CM-IN-4236 (7 Jan 44) 14352 ej# O. 11652, Bee. 2(E) and B(D) or (1) 5 OSD letter, May & 1972 By DBS Dodday NOT 1973 THE MAKING OF AN EXACT COPY, OF THIS MESSAGE IS FORBIDDEN