CINCPAC PRESS RELEASE NO. 543, SEPTEMBER 2, 1944

 

1. On 31 August (West Longitude Date) a Navy search plane of Fleet Air Wing Two while on routine patrol near Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands sighted and attacked an enemy convoy, consisting of two small cargo vessels and three sampans. One cargo vessel was sunk and the other damaged by strafing. Another Navy search plane on the same day strafed and sank a sampan near Jaluit Atoll.

2. Pagan Island in the Marianas was attacked on 30 and 31 August. In these attacks heavy damage was done to gun emplacements and other defense Installations by rocket fire, bombing, and strafing. On both days antiaircraft fire was meager.

3. A single Liberator bomber of the 7th AAF bombed Yap Island in the western Carolines on 30 and 31 August, encountering moderate antiaircraft fire.

4. Mille atoll in the Marshalls was bombed on 30 August by Corsair fighters and Dauntless dive bombers of the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, plus two 7th AAF Liberators. Gun positions and buildings were hit. Antiaircraft fire was meager.

5. On 30 August a lone Navy search plane of Fleet Air Wing Two bombed Nauru, encountering no enemy anti‑aircraft fire.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 113, SEPTEMBER 4, 1944

 

Chichi Jima and Haha Jima in the Bonin Islands and Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands were bombed and strafed by aircraft of a carrier task force on August 3 and 31 and on September 1 (West Longitude Dates). On August 30 and September 1 Chichi Jima and Iwo Jima were bombarded by cruisers and destroyers of the Pacific Fleet. Our aircraft dropped 196 tons of bombs in

 

214

 

these operations and fired 490 rockets. The following damage was inflicted on the enemy:

 

Ships sunk: Three small cargo ships and a landing barge at Iwo Jima. One small cargo ship southwest of Haha Jima, damaged by bomb­ing and later sunk by a destroyer. One small tanker and six barges at Chichi Jima. One small cargo ship northwest of Chichi Jima.

Ships probably sunk: One small cargo ship and one sub chaser northwest of Iwo Jima. One sub chaser southwest of Chichi Jima. One sub chaser at Haha Jima.

Ships damaged: Two sub chasers at Iwo Jima. One sub chaser and a sampan near Chichi Jima.

Aircraft destroyed or damaged: 10 enemy aircraft shot down near Iwo Jima. One twin‑engine bomber shot down over our task force. 33 enemy aircraft destroyed on the ground, 29 probably destroyed, and 10 damaged at Iwo Jima. Two seaplanes destroyed at Chichi Jima.

Damage to ground Installations: Extensive damage was done to hangars, shops, warehouses, fuel dumps, and antiaircraft positions by bombing and shelling during these attacks. Several antiaircraft positions were destroyed at Iwo Jima, a large warehouse was destroyed at Haha Jima, and at Chichi Jima the seaplane base was demolished.

Own damage: In these operations we lost five aircraft in combat. Our personnel casualties were one pilot and three flight personnel. There was no damage to our ships.

 

Cruisers and destroyers bombarded Wake Island on September 3, and  aircraft of a carrier task group bombed the island. Several coast defense guns and antiaircraft emplacements were knocked out. Extensive damage was done to other gun positions and buildings. Three small craft in the lagoon were heavily damaged. There was no opposition from enemy aircraft, and return fire from shore batteries was ineffective. We lost no aircraft and there was no damage to our ships.

Iwo Jima was bombed by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators on Septem­ber 2. More than 95 tons of bombs were dropped on air facilities. A single enemy fighter attempted to use phosphorous bombs against our formation without effect. Intense to moderate antiaircraft damaged three of our planes.

Pagan Island was the target of our planes in two attacks on September 1 and one attack on September 2. Rockets and strafing were employed in the later two attacks and little opposition was met.

Rota Island gun emplacements, bivouac areas and air installations were bombed on August 31, September 1 and September 2. Antiaircraft fire was meager.

Maug Island was attacked by our fighters using rockets on September 2.

A single Liberator of the Eleventh Army Air Force bombed Paramushiru in the Kuriles on August 31. No interception was encountered. A lone Mitchell bomber attacked southern Paramushiru later in the day, sinking a small cargo vessel at anchor and scoring a direct hit on docking facilities. The bomber returned undamaged.

Truk was hit with approximately 55 tons of bombs on September 1 by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators. Antiaircraft fire was meager and only one intercepting Zero was encountered.

Runways on Nauru airfields were bombed by Seventh Army Air Force Mitchells on September 2 and three of our attacking planes were damaged by meager but accurate antiaircraft fire.

 

215

 

Ponape Airfield was hit on September 1 by Seventh Army Air Force Mitchell bombers. Antiaircraft fire was meager.

In the Marshall Islands on September 1, gun positions, ammunition dumps, a radio station and personnel areas on Mille, Wotje and Maloelap Atolls were bombed and strafed by Corsair fighters and Dauntless dive bombers of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing. Sixty‑three tons of bombs were dropped. Anti­aircraft fire ranged from meager to moderate.

 

 

N. D.  COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 540, SEPTEMBER 6, 1944

 

1. The submarine USS Robalo is overdue from patrol and must be pre­sumed to be lost.

2. The next of kin of personnel in the Robalo have been so notified.

 

 

CINCPAC PRESS RELEASE NO. 545, SEPTEMBER 6, 1944

 

1. The airfield at Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands was bombed by Libera­tors of the 7th AAF on 4 September (West Longitude Date). Two enemy fighters were in the air but made no attempt at interception. Antiaircraft fire was moderate. A single Liberator bombed Iwo Jima during the night of 3‑4 September.

2. Pagan Island was attacked by our aircraft on 2, 3 and 4 September. Gun positions were strafed and subjected to rocket fire. Antiaircraft fire was meager. The airstrip at Rota Island was bombed on 3 September.

3. Marcus Island was attacked by 7th AAF Liberators on 3 and 4 Sep­tember. On 3 September a building apparently used for ammunition storage was hit and destroyed. Antiaircraft fire was intense.

4. A Liberator search plane of Group 1, Fleet Air Wing Two, intercepted and shot down an enemy transport plane near Iwo Jima on 4 September. A medium bomber escorting the transport managed to escape.

5. Yap Island was the target of attacks on 2, 3 and 4 September by a single 7th AAF Liberator. Airfield installations and bivouac areas were bombed. Antiaircraft fire was moderate.

6. Further neutralization raids against enemy positions in the Marshalls were conducted on 4 September by 7th AAF Liberators and Corsair fighters and Dauntless dive bombers of the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing.

 

 

CINCPAC PRESS RELEASE NO. 547, SEPTEMBER 7, 1944

 

1. The Palau Islands were swept in force by fighter planes of a Carrier Task Group on 5 September (West Longitude Date). There were no enemy planes in the air. Several aircraft on the ground were set afire by strafing. Defense installations, including antiaircraft emplacements and warehouses, were heavily strafed. An ammunition or fuel dump on Babelthuap Island was destroyed. Seventeen small craft near the islands were left burning as a result of strafing.

2. Venturas of Fleet Air Wing Four bombed Paramushiru and Onekotan in the Kuriles on 5 September. Landing barges and patrol craft were strafed.

3. On 6 September the airfield at Iwo Jima was bombed by Liberators of the 7th AAF, encountering moderate to intense antiaircraft fire. 7th AAF Liberators bombed Marcus Island on 6 September. Moderate antiaircraft fire damaged one bomber.

 

216

 

4. Nauru Island was attacked by 7th AAF Mitchells on 5 September. Airfields and gun positions were hit. Moderate antiaircraft fire was en­countered.

5. Antiaircraft positions on Pagan Island were subjected to rocket fire and strafing on 6 September.

 

 

CINCPAC PRESS RELEASE NO. 551, SEPTEMBER 8, 1944

 

1. Carrier aircraft bombed and strafed Yap and Ulithi in the western Caroline Islands on 5‑6 and 7 September (West Longitude Dates). Our aircraft dropped 110 tons of bombs and fired numerous rockets, destroying the radio cable station, antiaircraft positions, buildings and storage dumps. No airborne enemy aircraft were encountered and antiaircraft fire was meager. Our per­sonnel casualties were three pilots and one aircrewman. There was no damage to any of our ships.

2. Pagan and Aguijan in the Marianas were attacked by our aircraft on 6 September. Both islands were strafed. Rockets were launched against gun emplacements and other installations at Pagan, where moderate antiaircraft fire was encountered.

3. Liberators of the 7th AAF bombed Marcus Island on 6 September experiencing moderate antiaircraft fire. Explosions were observed and several fires were started.

4. On the same day further neutralization raids were carried out against enemy bases in the Marshalls. Corsair and Dauntless planes of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing bombed radio facilities and gun positions at Mille. No antiaircraft fire was encountered. Corsairs also bombed Wotje. Numerous fires were started. There was no antiaircraft fire.

 

 

CINCPAC PRESS RELEASE NO. 552, SEPTEMBER 9, 1944

 

1. Cruisers and destroyers of the Pacific Fleet shelled the Palau Islands on 6 September (west longitude date). The naval bombardment destroyed and damaged numerous buildings and defense installations. Many large fires were started on Angaur, the southernmost island in the group, and carrier based planes scored direct hits on supply facilities. There was meager antiaircraft fire. Bomb hits were made on communication facilities at Peleliu Island.

Numerous large fires were started at Koror, and a radio station and fuel dump were hit on Arakabesan Island. There was no damage to our surface ships.

2. Liberators of the 7th AAF bombed airfields and installations at Iwo

Jima in the Volcano Islands on 6 and 7 September. Several fires were started. Antiaircraft fire was moderate. Of four enemy fighters airborne on 7 Sep­tember, one was probably destroyed.

3. On 7 September, Liberators of the 7th AAF attacked Chichi Jima in the

Bonin Islands, damaging an enemy cargo ship in the harbor. On the same day Pagan Island in the Marianas was attacked with rocket and machine gun fire. 4. Army Liberators bombed Moen airfields in the Truk atoll on 6 September. Moderate antiaircraft fire was encountered.

5. Corsair fighters of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing continued their attacks on remaining positions in the Marshalls on 7 September. A single Navy search plane bombed Nauru Island on the same day.

 

217

 

 

JOINT STATEMENT, SEPTEMBER 9, 1944

 

The following joint Anglo‑American statement on submarine and anti­submarine operations is issued under the authority of the President and the Prime Minister

 

Last month, due to the effectiveness of the Allied Operations in France, the principal U‑boat operating bases in the Bay of Biscay were neutralized. As a consequence the Germans have been forced to operate their underseas craft from Norwegian and Baltic bases, thereby stretching even thinner their difficult lines of operation. The exchange rate between merchant ships sunk and U‑boats destroyed continues to be profitable to the United Nations' cause. While U‑boat operations continue, they are sporadic and relatively ineffectual.

 

 

N. D.  COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 541, SEPTEMBER 11, 1944

Pacific and Far East.

 

1. U. S. submarines have reported the sinking of 9 vessels, including three combatant ships, as a result of operations against the enemy in these waters, as follows

 

1 destroyer

1 escort vessels

1 gunboat

2 medium cargo vessels

1 small cargo vessel

1 medium cargo transport

2 small tankers

 

2. These actions have not been announced in any previous Navy Depart­ment communiqué.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 114, SEPTEMBER 11, 1944

 

Carrier‑based aircraft of the Pacific Fleet struck at enemy airfields and other military objectives at Mindanao Island in the Philippines on September 8 (West Longitude Date). The airfields at Del Monte, Valencia, Cagayan, Buayan, and Davao were bombed and strafed. In these attacks two enemy aircraft were encountered near our carriers, five were encountered over Cagayan, and one over Davao. All were shot down. Approximately 60 enemy aircraft were destroyed on the ground. Barracks, warehouses, and hangars were hit at the several airdromes attacked. Enemy waterfront installations at Matins, Cagayan, and Surigao were also bombed.

A convoy was discovered off Hinatuan Bay consisting of 32 loaded coastal cargo ships and 20 sampans. This convoy was brought under attack by Pacific Fleet cruisers, destroyers, and carrier aircraft, and all of the enemy ships were destroyed. In addition, enemy shipping found in Sarangani Bay and Davao Gulf, and near Cagayan and Surigao was attacked, resulting in the sinking or probable sinking of 16 small cargo ships, one medium cargo ship, one patrol craft, and many sampans, and setting fire to two small cargo ships, and at least 17 sampans. Our aircraft losses in the operations were very light. There was no damage to our surface ships.

 

218

 

More than 80 tons of bombs were dropped and numerous rockets fired by carrier aircraft in attacking the Palau Islands on September 9. Antiaircraft emplacements and other defense installations were attacked on Angaur, Peleliu, and Koror Islands. Numerous fires were started at Koror. A de­stroyer and a cargo ship, believed to have been heavily damaged in previous raids, were attacked again. We lost seven fight personnel in these attacks.

Liberators of the Eleventh Army Air Force bombed Paramushiru Island in the Kuriles on September 9, and Liberator search planes of Fleet Air Wing Four attacked the island again before dawn on September 10. In the first attack several enemy fighters unsuccessfully attempted to intercept our force, and one fighter was damaged. A convoy discovered underway near Paramushiru was bombed by Eleventh Army Air Force Mitchells on September 9.

Runways and air facilities at Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands were hit with 37 tons of bombs by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators on September 9. Antiaircraft was moderate to intense. Seven to ten enemy fighters intercepted. Of this group five or six were destroyed, one probably destroyed and one dam­aged. Three Liberators were damaged. On September 8 a single Liberator bombed the airfield at Iwo Jima while a Navy search plane bombed and strafed a small tanker west of Iwo Jima, leaving it aflame and probably sinking.

A single plane bombed Pagan on September 8 while fighter planes attacked Rota on September 9. There was no interception at either place.

Seventh Army Air Force Mitchells bombed the airfield and defense instal­lations at Ponape on September 8. Antiaircraft ranged from intense to meager. Seventh Army Air Force Liberators hit the airstrip and antiaircraft gun positions on Nauru the following day.

Further neutralization raids were carried out against enemy‑held positions in the Marshalls on September 8 and 9. Liberators of the Seventh Army Air Force and Corsair fighters and Dauntless dive bombers of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing hit gun positions, ammunition dumps and bivouac areas on Wotje, Mille and Jaluit.

 

 

N. D.  COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 542, SEPTEMBER 12, 1944

 

1. The submarine USS Gudgeon is overdue from patrol and presumed lost.

2. Next of kin of casualties have been informed.

 

 

CINCPAC PRESS RELEASE NO. 554, SEPTEMBER 12, 1944

 

1. Carrier aircraft of the Pacific Fleet attacked enemy defenses in the Palau Islands on 10 and 11 September (West Longitude Date). On 11 Septem­ber the islands were shelled by battleships and cruisers. One hundred and twenty tons of bombs were dropped by aircraft on buildings, gun positions, and coastal defenses at Babelthuap, Peleliu, and Angaur Islands. On 10 September a small cargo ship near the islands was sunk by bombing and strafing, and another was damaged. More than 150 rockets were fired at defensive positions during the two days, and numerous ground installations were strafed.

2. A single plane bombed the airfield at Iwo Jima on the night of 10 September.

3. Pagan Island was a target for our aircraft on 10 September. Rockets were launched at buildings and gun emplacements. Antiaircraft fire ranged from meager to intense.

4. Seventy‑two tons of bombs were dropped on Truk by Liberators of the

 

219

 

7th AAF on 10 September. Five or six enemy aircraft attempted interception. One enemy aircraft was destroyed and one was damaged. Antiaircraft fire varied from meager to intense. Minor damage was inflicted on three Liberators.

5. On the same day enemy held positions in the Marshalls were subjected to further neutralization raids. Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing bombed bivouac areas on Jaluit and Maloelap atolls. Corsairs and Dauntless dive bombers attacked Mille, encountering moderate antiaircraft fire.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 115, SEPTEMBER 13, 1944

 

Carrier based aircraft of the Pacific Fleet shot down more than fifty enemy aircraft and destroyed more than 150 on the ground in a day long attack against Cebu, Negros, and Panay Islands in the Philippines on Septem­ber 11 (West Longitude Date). Preliminary reports are fragmentary, but it is indicated that air operations are continuing against strong enemy opposition. Several cargo ships and numerous smaller craft were sunk in the initial attacks.

Paramushiru in the Kurile Islands was bombed and strafed by search planes of Fleet Air Wing Four on September 10. Waterfront installations along the Southeast Coast were the principal targets and several fires were started. Each of two medium cargo ships discovered near Paramushiru suf­fered a direct bomb hit and both were strafed. Strafing attacks were also delivered to a number of small craft offshore. On the same day a Navy search plane bombed Shimushu Island, and another search plane shot down an enemy fighter East of Onekotan Island.

On September 11, Eleventh Army Air Force Mitchells bombed and strafed a number of vessels in the harbor at Shimushu, sinking one medium cargo vessel and four small cargo vessels. Two other small cargo vessels were damaged. Seven enemy fighters intercepted our planes and inflicted minor damage on one Mitchell but all returned safely. On the same day, Venturas of Fleet Air Wing Four bombed and strafed Paramushiru, Araido and Onekotan, setting fires to docks and warehouses.

Liberators of the Seventh Army Air Force dropped 26 tons of bombs on airfields at Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands on September 10. Large fires were started. One of four intercepting enemy fighters was destroyed. Anti­aircraft fire damaged two Liberators. On September 11, a lone Navy Catalina bombed an ammunition dump at Nauru Island, and Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing hit the storage and magazine areas at Jaluit.

Pagan Island in the Marianas was attacked on September 11, by Seventh Army Air Force Thunderbolts using bombs and rockets. Gun positions and buildings were hit.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 116, SEPTEMBER 14, 1944

 

Carrier aircraft of the Pacific Fleet swept over the Central Philippines and inflicted crippling damage on enemy air forces shipping and ground installa­tions during a three day strike, September 11 to 13 (West Longitude Date). More complete information shows that the following damage was done to the enemy on Panay, Cebu, Negros and Leyte Islands.

Aircraft destroyed: 156 shot down in combat and 277 destroyed on the ground. This is a revision of planes previously announced lost by the enemy

 

220

 

in the Central Philippines. As of sundown on September 13, 501 enemy air­craft had been destroyed in the Philippines by our carrier aircraft.

Ships sunk: Two large cargo vessels, one medium transport, two de­stroyer escorts, 35 small ships.

Ships damaged: Five cargo vessels, one medium oiler, 36 small ships, two motor torpedo boats, many sampans. These ship losses are in addition to those previously reported.

Damage to ground installations: Several airfields were bombed and strafed by our planes. Oil storage facilities, ammunition dumps, warehouses, barracks and buildings were set afire.

Enemy air opposition the first day was considerable and was reinforced during the first night so that its strength on the second day was also for­midable. Enemy planes rose to intercept our aircraft, but no attempts were made to attack our surface ships. On the third day, enemy air power was nonexistent and antiaircraft fire was meager. Our losses in planes and flight personnel were relatively light.

Carrier aircraft hit enemy positions at Angaur, Peleliu and Ngesebus Islands in the Palau Group on September 12 with 90 tons of bombs and 165 rockets. Damage was inflicted on coastal gun positions, warehouses and a lighthouse at Angaur.

On September 12, Navy search planes of Fleet Air Wing Two, attacked and damaged a large sampan and two large troop laden landing craft near Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands.

Pagan Island was bombed twice on September 12, one attack being made by a Thunderbolt of the Seventh Army Air Force, the other by a Liberator. Buildings and gun positions were hit. There was no antiaircraft fire.

A single Liberator of the Seventh Army Air Force bombed buildings on Marcus Island on September 11. The plane which returned was damaged by antiaircraft fire. Other Seventh Army Air Force Liberators bombed Marcus Island on September 12.

Mitchell bombers of the Seventh Army Air Force flew through meager antiaircraft fire to bomb Nauru on September 12.

The Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing sent Corsair and Dauntless dive bombers over Wotje on September 11 and again on September 12 to bomb gun positions and communications facilities. Dauntless dive bombers struck at Mille on September 11, hitting bivouac areas. Meager antiaircraft fire was encountered at both targets.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 117, SEPTEMBER 15, 1944

 

United States Army and Marine assault troops established beachheads in the Palau Islands on September 14 (West Longitude Date) with the support of carrier aircraft and surface combat ships of the Third Fleet under the command of Admiral Halsey. Enemy defenses are being heavily bombed and shelled at close range.

Amphibious operations against the Palau Islands are being directed by Vice Admiral T. S. Wilkinson, U. S. Navy, Commander Third Amphibious Force.

Expeditionary troops are commanded by Major General Julian C. Smith. USMC.

The landings are continuing against stiff ground opposition.

 

221

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 118, SEPTEMBER 15, 1944

 

United States Marines are developing a beachhead in the southern portion of Peleliu Island in the Palau Islands, and are closing in upon the principal airport in the island group. The beachhead extends for approximately one and one‑half miles along the southwestern shore of Peleliu. Several enemy counterattacks, employing tanks, were thrown back during September 14 (West Longitude Date) by our ground forces assisted by strong air support and Naval gunfire. Our casualties during the first day of the assault were light, although the landing beaches have been under sporadic mortar and artillery fire.

The landings on Peleliu Island were supported by carrier‑based aircraft which bombed, strafed, and launched rockets against enemy installations immediately behind the landing beaches on September 14. Gun emplacements and other defense installations on the northern end of the island were also heavily bombed. We lost one plane and four flight personnel in these attacks.

The fast carrier task force covering and supporting the landings by far ranging operations throughout the Western Pacific are commanded by Vice Admiral Marc A. Mitscher, U. S. Navy.

The amphibious assault troops engaged are under the command of Major General Roy S. Geiger, USMC, Commander, Third Amphibious Corps.

The initial landings were made by the First Marine Division, commanded by Major General William H. Rupertus, USMC The ships in direct support are commanded by Rear Admiral George H. Fort, U. S. Navy.

Ventura search planes of Fleet Air Wing Four bombed Shimushu Island on September 12, setting buildings afire. Antiaircraft fire was ineffective. Seven enemy fighters rose to intercept our force but did not press home the attack. During the night of September 13‑14 Eleventh Army Air Force Liberators bombed installations at Paramushiru. All returned undamaged to their base.

Three Liberators of the Seventh Army Air Force bombed Iwo Jima on September 13, dropping 52 tons of bombs on the airfield and adjacent installa­tions. Large explosions visible for many miles were observed. Enemy air­craft made no attempt at interception. All planes returned safely.

Pagan Island installations were bombed by Thunderbolts of the Seventh Army Air Force on September 13. Moderate antiaircraft fire was encountered. On the same day fighter planes of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing hit gun positions on Rota, encountering meager antiaircraft fire.

Corsairs and Dauntless dive bombers of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing made further neutralization raids on the Marshall Island Atolls of Mille, Jaluit, and Wotje on September 12 and 13.

Liberators of the Seventh Army Air Force flew through moderate antiair­craft fire to bomb Marcus Island on September 13.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 119, SEPTEMBER 16, 1944

 

During September 15 (West Longitude Date) United States Marines made some additional gains against strong opposition on Peleliu Island and captured the airfield at the southern end. The enemy has launched several strong counterattacks against our positions but has been thrown back each time.

 

222

 

An attack begun by our forces on the early morning of September 15, preceded by aerial bombing and Naval gunfire, resulted in steady advances through well organized defenses in depth. This attack was supported by artillery, tanks, Naval gunfire, and bombing. Several enemy tanks were reported destroyed. Our troops had counted more than 1400 enemy dead by nightfall on September 15. Severe fighting continues.

Carrier aircraft continued to give close support to our ground forces throughout September 15. Enemy troop concentrations, gun positions, and supplies were bombed. Carrier planes also bombed airfield installations at Babelthuap, the northernmost island in the Palau Group. Several fires were started by strafing.

Seventy‑two tons of bombs were dropped on Dublon and Moen in the Truk Atoll by Liberators of the Seventh Army Air Force on September 14. Five enemy planes intercepted our force and one Liberator was damaged. The enemy planes were driven off with probable damage to one. Antiaircraft fire was meager. On the same day Mitchell bombers of the Seventh Army Air Force bombed Ponape Island in the Carolines.

Paramushiru in the Kuriles was bombed by Eleventh Army Air Force Liberators at night on September 12. Antiaircraft fire was meager and all of our planes returned. Venturas of Fleet Air Wing Four attacked Paramushiru on September 14, setting fire to several buildings. Intercepting enemy aircraft damaged one Ventura. Two of the interceptors were probably damaged. All of our planes returned.

Pagan Island was attacked on September 14 by Thunderbolts of the Seventh Army Air Force. Gun emplacements were hit with rockets and strafed. One plane was damaged by antiaircraft fire.

Gun emplacements at Wotje Atoll were bombed on September 14 by Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing. Meager antiaircraft fire was encountered.

A single search plane of Fleet Air Wing Two strafed and damaged two enemy sailboats at Lemotrek Island, east of Woleai, on September 14. Another search plane of Fleet Air Wing Two on routine patrol near Iwo Jima on September 14 sighted two large landing craft escorted by a fighter plane: Both landing craft were strafed and the enemy plane was shot down.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 120, SEPTEMBER 17, 1944

 

United States Army assault troops established beachheads on Angaur Island, the southernmost of the Palau Islands, on September 16 (West Longi­tude Date). Carrier‑based aircraft of the Pacific Fleet heavily bombed the island prior to the landings, and cruisers and destroyers took enemy defensive positions under deliberate fire.

The initial landings were made by troops of the 81st Infantry Division, commanded by Major General Paul J. Mueller, U.S.A. The ships in direct support are commanded by Rear Admiral W. H. P. Blandy, U. S. Navy.

All initial objectives have been gained against resistance which so far has been relatively light.

 

223

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 121, SEPTEMBER 17, 1944

 

The First Marine Division continued to encounter heavy opposition on Peleliu Island during September 16 (West Longitude Date), but extended the area under their control in the southwestern peninsula and moved ahead in a northerly direction approximately a third of a mile. Our attack was preceded by bombing and Naval gunfire. The enemy is using artillery and mortars in considerable numbers against our positions although many have been destroyed by bombing and counter‑battery fire. On Angaur Island, troops of the 81st Infantry Division have joined the beachheads established on the north and northeast sectors of the island, and have pushed inland more than a thousand yards against light opposition. The northeast third of Angaur is now in our hands.

Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands was bombed on September 14 (West Longitude Date) by a single Liberator of the Seventh Army Air Force and by Liberators in greater number on September 15. In the latter attack the airstrips and surrounding areas were bombed causing large explosions and starting fires. Four enemy planes attempted interception without success. There was moderate antiaircraft fire, which did no damage.

Pagan Island in the Marianas was attacked twice on September 15 by the Seventh Army Air Force. Liberators attacked early in the day followed by Thunderbolts which launched rockets and strafed gun positions and the runway. There was meager antiaircraft fire. There were two attacks against Rota on September 14. In the afternoon Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Air­craft Wing strafed gun positions and Navy Hellcat fighter planes strafed the airfield at night. Rota was again visited by Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing on September 15. The runway and gun emplacements were bombed and strafed.

Gun positions and the airfield at Ponape were bombed on September 14 by Seventh Army Air Force Mitchells.

On September 15 a single Seventh Army Air Force Liberator bombed Marcus Island.

The same day Corsairs and Dauntless dive bombers of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing dropped six tons of bombs on Wotje. One of our planes was shot down. The crew was rescued. Corsairs again bombed Wotje on Septem­ber 16.

A lone Catalina search plane of Fleet Air Wing Two attacked Nauru on the night of September 16.

 

 

SEPTEMBER 18, 1944

 

COAST GUARD LIGHTSHIP BELIEVED LOST IN HURRICANE

 

The 123‑foot Coast Guard lightship Vineyard Sound is missing from her position off the tip of Cuttyhunk Island in Vineyard Sound, Massachusetts, and is presumed to have been lost with 11 officers and men in Thursday's hurricane. All next of kin have been notified.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 122, SEPTEMBER 18, 1944

 

During the night of September 16‑17 (West Longitude Date) the enemy counterattacked the western flank of our forward lines on Peleliu Island, but was thrown back. An attack launched by the First Marine Division in the

 

224

 

early morning of September 17 resulted in further gains to the north, and the occupation of Asias Town. Meantime mopping up operations in the southern sector progressed and Ngarmoked Island off the southern tip of Peleliu was captured. Two enemy aircraft bombed our positions on September 17, but caused no casualties. Seabees are at work rebuilding the Peleliu Airfield. Heavy fighting continues.

On Angaur Island several enemy counterattacks have been repulsed and good progress has been made by the 81st Infantry Division. The northern half of the island excepting some strong-points along the western shore is under our control. Through September 17 our forces had wiped out 5,495 enemy troops on Peleliu and 48 on Angaur.

 

 

CINCPAC PRESS RELEASE NO. 559, SEPTEMBER 18, 1944

 

Major General Francis P. Mulcahy, USMC, has been designated Com­manding General of Aircraft, Fleet Marine Force, succeeding Major General Ross E. Rowell, USMC, it was announced today by Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean Areas.

The change in designation for Marine aviation in the Pacific from Marine Aircraft Wings Pacific to Aircraft, Fleet Marine Force, was announced simul­taneously.

 

 

N. D.  COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 543, SEPTEMBER 19, 1944

Central Pacific.

 

1. The USS Perry (DMS‑17) was sunk as the result of enemy action during the present operation in the Palau Islands.

2. The next of kin of casualties (which were small) have been informed.

 

 

N. D.  COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 544, SEPTEMBER 19, 1944

Pacific and Far East.

 

1. U. S. submarines have reported the sinking of 29 vessels, including three combatant ships, as a result of operations against the enemy in these waters as follows

 

2 destroyers

1 large cargo transport

11 medium cargo vessels

9 small cargo vessels

2 medium cargo transports

1 escort vessel

3 medium tankers

 

2. These actions have not been announced in any previous Navy Depart­ment communiqué.

 

225

 

 

N. D.  COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 545, SEPTEMBER 19, 1944

 

1. The submarine USS Flier was lost in recent operations against the enemy.

2. The next of kin of officers and crew have been informed.

 

 

SEPTEMBER 19, 1944

 

USS NOA LOST IN PACIFIC

 

The USS Noa recently was sunk in the Pacific as the result of a collision with a U. S. destroyer. There were no casualties to personnel.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 123, SEPTEMBER 19, 1944

 

First Marine Division troops on Peleliu Island scored further gains in a northeasterly direction during September 18 (West Longitude Date), securing Ngardololok Town and bringing most of the eastern coastal area under con­trol. There was no significant change in our positions in the center and along the west coast. The enemy, fighting from pillboxes, trenches and other pre­pared fortifications, supported by mortars and artillery, continues to offer stubborn resistance. Found in badly damaged condition on the Peleliu Airfield were 77 single‑engine fighter aircraft, 28 medium bombers, eight light bombers, and four transport plane

On Angaur Island further southward advances have been made and two thirds of the island is in the hands of the 81st Infantry Division. The enemy now occupies only two isolated pockets of the island. During September 1 Saipan Town and Middle Village were occupied.

A landing craft equipped as a gunboat (LCI‑459) struck a mine while firing rockets in close support of our troops on Peleliu on September 17, and sank in about 20 minutes. Two of the crew were wounded, but all are safe.

Shimushu Island in the Kuriles was bombed by Eleventh Army Air Force Liberators during the night of September 16. Antiaircraft fire was inaccurate and all our planes returned to their base. Shimushu and Paramushiru were attacked on September 17 by search Venturas of Fleet Air Wing Four. Build­ings were set afire. A small boat, loaded with enemy personnel, and a warship, thought to be a destroyer, were strafed off the east coast of Paramushiru. Several enemy fighter planes intercepted and one was shot down. One of our planes was damaged.

Iwo Jima was attacked on the night of September 16 (West Longitude Date) by a single plane. There was no antiaircraft fire.

Seventh Army Air Force Liberators bombed Marcus Island on September 17. Antiaircraft fire varied from meager to intense. On the same day Seventh Army Air Force Mitchells flew through moderate antiaircraft fire to bomb runways, bivouac areas, and gun emplacements on Nauru Island.

Further neutralization raids were carried out against Wotje in the Mar­shalls on September 16 and 17. Both attacks were directed at storage areas and encountered meager antiaircraft fire. On September 16 Seventh Army Air Force Liberators bombed Jaluit.

 

226

 

 

SEPTEMBER 20, 1944

 

USS YMS‑409 PRESUMED LOST IN HURRICANE

 

The minesweeper USS YMS‑409, which was at sea during the hurricane last week, has not been heard from and is presumed to be lost. The area through which this vessel was passing has been under constant search since the day of the storm, and the search is still continuing. The next of kin of those aboard are being notified.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 124, SEPTEMBER 20, 1944

 

During the afternoon of September 19 (West Longitude Date) organized enemy resistance ceased on Angaur Island. The 81st Infantry Division is proceeding with mopping‑up operations.

Shore installations and bivouac areas at Chichi Jima in the Bonin Islands were bombed by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators on September 18. A direct hit and two near misses were obtained in attacking a medium cargo vessel at anchor in Futami Harbor, and numerous barges were bombed. The cargo ship was left burning and eight to 10 barges were destroyed. Antiair­craft fire was meager.

Pagan Island in the Marianas was bombed and strafed by Thunderbolts of the Seventh Army Air Force on September 18. Antiaircraft emplacements and storage facilities were the principal targets, and several fires were started.

Marcus Island was attacked by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators on the same day, and Seventh Army Air Force Mitchells bombed Ponape Island, hitting gun positions and the airstrip in the latter attack.

Corsair fighters and Dauntless dive bombers of the Fourth Marine Air­craft Wing bombed Wotje Atoll in the Marshalls on September 18, dropping 27 tons on barracks areas.

All of our aircraft returned from the foregoing missions.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 125, SEPTEMBER 20, 1944

 

During September 19 (West Longitude Date) the First Marine Division continued to apply heavy pressure on the left flank of our front on Peleliu Island, seeking to dislodge the enemy from strong defensive positions in the rough terrain which parallels the western shore. The enemy resistance is bitter, but slow progress is being made, and in one sector 11 field guns, 70 machine guns, and 23 mortars have been captured by our forces. Small local advances were made on the left during September 19, but there was no ap­preciable change in our line. On the right flank, along the eastern shore, ad­ditional gains were scored and virtually all enemy resistance has been mopped up. The small unnamed island below Ngabad Island was occupied by our forces during the day.

Mopping up on Angaur Island by troops of the 81st Infantry Division con­tinues. Our forces have killed an estimated 7045 enemy troops on Peleliu and 600 on Angaur. Enemy aircraft dropped two bombs near positions oc­cupied by our forces during the night of September 18‑19, but caused no damage.

 

227

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 126, SEPTEMBER 21, 1944

 

The First Marine Division made minor gains in a northerly direction along the western ridge of Peleliu Island on September 24 (West Longitude Date) facing stiff opposition from the enemy troops well entrenched in pre­cipitous terrain. Our attack was preceded by gunfire from cruisers and de­stroyers and by bombing.

Meantime, our forces occupied the entire east coast of Peleliu, including the island of Ngabad.

More enemy equipment has been captured consisting of six trench mortars and 31 machine guns. An additional 10 enemy aircraft have been found de­stroyed on the airfield.

The 81st Division is continuing mopping‑up operations on Angaur.

Enemy troops killed on Peleliu number 8,792. Enemy troops killed on Angaur number 850.

The airfield and installations on Babelthuap and the seaplane base at Arakabesan were bombed on September 20.

Seventh Army Air Force Thunderbolts strafed and bombed gun emplace­ments on Pagan in the Marianas on September 19.

Aircraft of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing bombed storage areas at Rota Island on September 18 and attacked it again on September 19, causing several explosions and starting fires.

A single plane bombed Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands on September 18. There was no antiaircraft fire.

Truk Atoll was the target of Seventh Army Air Force Liberators on September 18. Sixty‑nine tons of bombs were dropped on the airfield at Moen. Four enemy aircraft attempted interception. Antiaircraft fire was meager. Three Liberators were slightly damaged but all returned.

Venturas of Fleet Air Wing Four bombed Paramushiru in the Kuriles on September 19. Direct hits were scored on communication facilities. Later the same day a single Eleventh Army Air Force Mitchell bomber attacked Paramushiru, encountering meager antiaircraft fire. All planes returned safely.

Corsairs and Dauntless dive bombers of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing attacked Wotje, in the Marshalls, on September 19. Bivouac areas, storage areas, and communication facilities were bombed. Meager antiaircraft fire was encountered.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 127, SEPTEMBER 21, 1944

 

Carrier aircraft of the Pacific Fleet swept the island of Luzon in the heart of the Philippines on September 20 (West Longitude Date) striking in great force at shipping in Manila Bay and in Subic Bay, at enemy Installa­tions at Clark Field and Nichols Field near Manila, and at the Cavite Naval Base.

One hundred and ten enemy aircraft were shot down in the air and 95 were destroyed on the ground. The following additional damage was inflicted on the enemy

 

Enemy ships sunk:

Enemy ships damaged,

One large destroyer leader

including those probably sunk

Four large oil tankers

One destroyer

One small oil tanker

Two large oil tankers

Two large cargo ships

One large transport

One medium cargo ship

Ten large cargo ships

Two small cargo ships

Twelve medium cargo ships

 

One floating dry dock

 

Two barges

 

228

 

In addition to the heavy shipping and aircraft losses inflicted upon the enemy, much damage was done to military objectives on and adjacent to Clark Field and Nichols Field, and to the fields themselves. Our losses in this superlatively successful attack which apparently caught the enemy completely by surprise, were 15 aircraft from which several of the flight personnel were recovered. There was no damage to our surface ships.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 128, SEPTEMBER 22, 1944

 

On Peleliu Island the enemy continued to resist bitterly from heavily fortified defense positions on Umurbrogol Mountain during September 21 (West Longitude Date). Troops of the First Marine Division were unable to make any appreciable progress along the western arm of the island. Five heavy caliber enemy guns were captured by our forces during the day. Our front line remains virtually unchanged except for slight northward progress along the west coast. On Angaur the 81st Infantry Division continues to dig remnants of the enemy from caves in the northwestern section of the island. During the day a heavy cruiser shelled enemy defense installations on Koror Island, and scored several direct hits.

Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing bombed Rota in the Mari­anas on September 20. On the same day installations at Pagan were bombed by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators. No antiaircraft fire was encountered in either attack.

Seventh Army Air Force Liberators attacked Marcus Island on September 19 and again on September 20. Gun emplacements were bombed in the latter attack. Meager antiaircraft fire was encountered. The runway and gun em­placements on Nauru Island were bombed on September 20 by Seventh Army Air Force Mitchells. Antiaircraft fire was moderate.

Jaluit Atoll in the Marshalls was attacked on September 20 by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators.

 

 

N. D.  COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 546, SEPTEMBER 23, 1944

Mediterranean Area.

 

1. During recent operations in the Mediterranean the following U. S. vessels were lost as the result of enemy action:

 

PT's‑202, 218, 555

LST‑282

YMS‑21

YMS‑24

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 129, SEPTEMBER 23, 1944

 

Carrier‑based planes bombed Yap Island on September 21, finding new worthwhile targets, no airborne opposition and only moderate antiaircraft fire.

Enemy forces on Peleliu Island were slowly but steadily being pushed toward the northern end of the island during September 22. Garekoru Village and a small, unnamed island along the east coast were occupied by United States Marines. Approximately three‑fourths of the island is now in our hands.

On the same day seven barges were sighted in the narrow channel be­tween Peleliu and Ngesebus Islands. One was sunk by our patrol vessels and

 

229

 

the remainder dispersed. These were destroyed by bombing, strafing and ships' gunfire after being beached on Peleliu. In the action a small supply dump was also set afire.

At sundown on September 22, 7,020 enemy troops had been killed on Peleliu while 950 had been killed on Angaur.

Pagan and Anatahan in the Marianas were attacked by Seventh Army Air Force Thunderbolts on September 21. On the same day Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing strafed the phosphate plant and storage facili­ties on Rota Island.

Seventh Army Air Force Liberators attacked shipping in the harbor at Chichi Jima in the Bonins on September 21. One barge was sunk and near misses were scored on a freighter. Large explosions in the harbor area were caused. Meager antiaircraft fire was encountered.

Seventh Army Air Force Liberators bombed Marcus Island on September 21 and gun positions and areas surrounding the airfield at Ponape were bombed on September 21 by Seventh Army Air Force Mitchells.

On the same day Jaluit Atoll was attacked by Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 130, SEPTEMBER 24, 1944

 

Carrier‑based aircraft of the Pacific Fleet, continuing the smashing attack against the Northern Philippines begun on September 20 (West Longitude Date), took an additional heavy toll of enemy planes, ships and ground In­stallations on September 21. Total destruction in the two day strike was extensive and the enemy suffered heavily.

The following damage, part of which has been previously reported, was inflicted at and near Clark and Nichols Fields, in the Manila Harbor area and at the Cavite Naval Base during the two day operations in Southern Luzon:

 

Ships sunk:

40 classified as ships; six small craft.

 

Ships probably sunk:

11 classified as ships.

 

Ships damaged:

35 classified as ships; 11 small craft; two floating drydocks.

 

Aircraft destroyed:

169 planes shot down in combat; 188 planes destroyed on the ground.

 

Aircraft damaged:

45 planes probably damaged on the ground; three planes damaged by ship's gunfire.

 

Ground installations damaged and destroyed:

 

Extensive and widespread damage was done to buildings, warehouses, railroad equipment, oil storage tanks, harbor installations, hangars, shops and stored supplies and equipment.

Our own losses in this daring and highly successful strike were 11 planes in combat, 10 pilots and five aircrewmen. There was no loss or damage to any of our surface ships.

The total revised box score for the Third Fleet, under the command of Admiral William F. Halsey, Jr., USN, since it began operating in the far

 

230

 

western Pacific now stands at: 122 ships and 61 small craft sunk, 137 ships and 109 small craft damaged, 380 planes shot down in the air, 598 destroyed on the ground, total aircraft destroyed 978, crippling damage to air fields and Naval establishments. In addition ships and carrier‑based aircraft of the Third Fleet have supported the assaults on Palau. Our own combat losses have been 51 planes, 37 pilots and 20 crewmen.

The operations of the Third Fleet have forced the enemy to withdraw its Naval forces from their former anchorages in the Philippines and to seek new refuges in the same general area, have disrupted inter‑island communica­tions, and have broken his air force in the Philippines just as operations of the Fifth Fleet broke the enemy carrier‑based air force in the Battle of the Philippine Sea.

Chichi Jima and Haha Jima in the Bonin Islands were bombed on September 22 by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators. Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands was attacked twice on September 22 by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators. Meager antiaircraft fire was encountered in all attacks.

A single Seventh Army Air Force Liberator bombed Pagan on September 22.

On the same day Seventh Army Air Force Mitchell bombers attacked Nauru. Antiaircraft fire was moderate.

Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing carried our further neutral­ization raids against enemy held atolls in the Marshalls, striking at Mille on September 21‑22 and at Jaluit and Wotje on September 22. Dauntless dive bombers attacked Maloelap on September 21 and 22.

 

 

CINCPAC PRESS RELEASE NO. 564, SEPTEMBER 24, 1944

 

1. An attempt by the enemy to reinforce his beleaguered troops in the northern end of Peleliu Island was broken up on 23 September (West Longitude Date). A convoy of 13 barges and one motor sampan, carrying men and equip­ment, was sighted northeast of Peleliu. It was immediately brought under fire by United States warships, some of which ,pushed through mined waters to close range. A number of the barges were seen to explode. Later ten wrecked barges were counted on the reef northeast of Peleliu and the remainder were thought to have sunk. A few of the enemy probably were able to swim ashore without their equipment.

On the same day in Malakal harbor, two camouflaged ships previously damaged by our aircraft, were bombarded by a United States cruiser which scored at least one direct hit.

Marine forces on Peleliu made small gains on both the right and left flanks during 23 September. On Angaur mopping up operations continue.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 131, SEPTEMBER 25, 1944

 

Units of the First Marine Division maneuvered so as to by‑pass enemy strong-points on Peleliu Island and made substantial progress in a northerly direction along the western arm of the island during September 24 (West Longitude Date). At one point on the western shore they are less than a mile from the northern tip of the island. During the night of September 23 24 an enemy barge was destroyed by Naval gunfire. Certain elements of the 81st Infantry Division have reinforced the First Marine Division, while other ele‑

 

231

 

ments are continuing to mop up on Angaur Island. Through September 24 our troops had counted 8288 enemy dead, of which 7313 were killed on Peleliu and the remainder of 975 killed on Angaur. Heavy fighting continues.

Harbor facilities and shipping at Chichi Jima in the Bonin Islands were bombed on September 23 by Seventh Army Air Force Liberators.

Seventh Army Air Force Liberators bombed Marcus Island on September 22 and again on September 23.

On September 23 Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing strafed

gun emplacements at Rota Island in the Marianas. There was meager anti­aircraft fire.

Bivouac areas at Jaluit Atoll were attacked twice on September 23 by Corsairs and Dauntless dive bombers of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing. Other Corsairs struck at defensive positions at Wotje Atoll and Mille Atoll on the same day.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 132, SEPTEMBER 26, 1944

 

Elements of the First Marine Division drove almost to Akarakoro Point at the northern extremity of Peleliu Island during September 25 (West Longitude Date) while other elements of the First Division maneuvered to encircle bitterly resisting remnants of the enemy entrenched on Umurbrogol Hill. Units of the 81st Infantry Division took additional high ground in the center of the western arm of the island. Communication between the northern and southern pockets of Japanese resistance has thus been severed. Our advance to the north included the capture of Amiangal Hill and the hills adjacent to it, and was made in the fate of heavy resistance from automatic weapon and artillery fire.

Our casualties in the fighting to seize the Palau Islands through Septem­ber 25 are as follows

First Marine Division, Killed in Action, 580; Wounded in Action, 3,639; Missing in Action, 401.

81st Infantry Division, Killed in Action, 106; Wounded in Action, 769; Missing in Action, 5.

No figures are now available as to the number of wounded who have been returned to duty.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 133, SEPTEMBER 27, 1944

 

Further gains made during September 26 (West Longitude Date) by the First Marine Division and elements of the 81st Infantry Division on Peleliu Island brought the entire Island under our control with the exception of Umur­brogol Mountain and a small pocket at the Northeastern tip. Rapid progress was made by the First Marine Division attacking in the Northern sector and by Army troops in the center of the Western arm during the day. Two enemy aircraft dropped bombs in the water East of Angaur during the night of September 25‑26, causing no damage. During the same night remaining enemy troops on Angaur failed in an attempt to infiltrate through our lines. Through September 26, our troops had counted 7,517 enemy dead on Peleliu and 1,020 on Angaur. The Northwestern area of Babelthuap Island was strafed by Corsair fighters during September 26.

 

232

 

On September 24, a single Ventura of Fleet Air Wing Four bombed in­stallations at Paramushiru in the Kuriles. Antiaircraft fire was intense and several enemy planes attempted Interception; the Ventura was slightly dam­aged, but returned safely.

Eleventh Air Force Liberators attacked Paramushiru in the same day. Direct hits were scored on the runway; several fires were started. Twelve enemy fighter planes attempted interception. One of the interceptors was destroyed and seven were damaged. Antiaircraft fire was moderate. All of our planes returned safely.

The airfield at Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands was bombed on Septem­ber 24, by Liberators of the Seventh Air Force. Antiaircraft fire was intense. One of four enemy planes attempting interception was shot down. Three Liberators were damaged, but all returned safely. On September 25, a search plane of Fleet Air Wing Two strafed a small coastal cargo ship near Iwo Jima. The crew was observed abandoning the vessel which was left dead in the water.

A lone Seventh Air Force Liberator bombed Wake on the night of Sep­tember 24‑25, and several bombed the runway at Marcus Island on September 25. Gun emplacements at Pagan in the Marianas were bombed by Seventh Air Force Thunderbolts on September 25. Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing attacked Rota on the night of September 24‑25, scoring direct hits on the runway. Other Corsairs returned to Rota on September 25, and strafed in­stallations. Meager antiaircraft fire was encountered in the latter attack.

Ponape Island in the Carolines was attacked on the night of September 24‑25, by Seventh Air Force Liberators. The airfield and gun emplacements were hit. Other Liberators attacking Truk Atoll on the night of September 24‑25, dropped 55 tons of bombs on the airfield at Eten Island and scored several near misses on shipping found in the Lagoon. There was moderate antiaircraft fire and several enemy planes attempted interception without success.

Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing attacked Jaluit in the Mar­shalls on the same night, scoring direct hits on communication facilities. Venturas of Fleet Air Wing Two and Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing bombed and strafed installations at Wotje Atoll on September 25. Meager antiaircraft fire was encountered. On the night of September 25, Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing flew through meager antiair­craft fire to bomb installations at Mille Atoll.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 134, SEPTEMBER 28, 1944

 

Carrier aircraft of the Pacific Fleet struck hard at enemy shipping and defense installations in the Visayas Group of the Philippine Islands on Sep­tember 23 (West Longitude Date) attacking airfields on the Islands of Cebu, Leyte, Negros, Luzon and Mactan and all shipping found in adjacent waters.

A particularly heavy strike was delivered at Coron Bay between Busuanga Island and Culion Island in the Western Philippines, where a number of the enemy's ships including two of his valuable fleet tankers were sunk.

Only seven enemy aircraft were shot down. Twenty‑nine enemy aircraft were destroyed on the ground at the several fields which were thoroughly bombed and strafed.

 

233

 

The following damage was inflicted upon enemy shipping (including the two tankers at Coron Bay):,

 

Ships sunk:

Damaged

One destroyer

(including more than one probably sunk):

One troop transport

Two large oil tankers

Three large cargo ships

One large cargo ship

Three large oil tankers

One medium oil tanker

Six medium cargo ships

Fifteen medium cargo ships

Five small cargo ships

One small transport

Three destroyer‑escort type vessels

Twenty‑one small cargo ships

 

Two destroyer‑escort type vessels

 

In addition, between 20 and 30 small craft were sunk or damaged.

The following damage was inflicted upon enemy shore installations

At Iloilo in Southern Panay, a warehouse and a Marine railway were set afire.

At Bacolod in the Northern part of Negros Island piers and barracks were bombed and strafed.

At Cebu Island warehouses and piers were heavily damaged.

At Mactan Island, East of Cebu Island, oil refining facilities and the air­field were bombed.

At Saravis in the Northern part of Negros Island, buildings and the air­field were hit.

At Legaspi in Southern Luzon a number of partially concealed aircraft were bombed and strafed on the airfield, but the number destroyed and dam­aged was not observed.

Near Ormoc on Leyte Island, oil storage facilities and barracks were set afire.

Our losses in these operations were 10 aircraft but only five pilots and three flight personnel are missing.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 135, SEPTEMBER 29, 1944

 

Elements of the First Marine Division landed on Ngesebus and Kongauru Islands, north of Peleliu, on the morning of September 27 (West Longitude Date). The assault was preceded by heavy shelling from cruisers and de­stroyers and bombing from carrier‑based aircraft. Light enemy opposition was speedily overcome. Ngesebus Island is completely secure and our troops are mopping up scattered enemy forces occupying only a small portion of Kongauru Island.

The First Marine Division and elements of the 81st Infantry Division continued to drive the enemy from remaining positions on Peleliu Island. Our forces drove south on Umurbrogol Hill and all the northern arm of the island has been secured with the exception of the pinnacle of an unnamed hill and a small area on the eastern coast. The 81st Division is cleaning out caves and pillboxes on the northwest tip of Angaur Island where a few enemy troops remain.

Naval installations at Chichi Jima in the Bonins were bombed on Sep­tember 27 by Seventh Air Force Liberators. Fires were started and two ex­plosions were observed. Antiaircraft fire which varied from moderate to in­tense did no damage to our planes. A Navy search plane while on routine patrol near Iwo Jima on September 27 damaged an enemy medium bomber.

 

234

 

The enemy plane had one engine shot out and was forced to land, nearly missing two fighter planes about to take off from the airfield at Iwo Jima. On September 27 another Navy search plane downed an enemy bomber north of the Palau Islands. On September 26 a single Seventh Air Force Liberator bombed the airfield at Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands.

Enemy‑held islands in the Marianas were subjected to further neutraliza­tion raids on September 26 and 27. Seventh Air Force Thunderbolts bombed and strafed installations on Pagan on September 27, and Seventh Air Force Liberators were over Pagan Island twice on September 26. Areas of possible use as airfields were bombed and the Island was strafed. Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing bombed Rota, doing further damage to the air­field.

Liberators of the Seventh Air Force bombed Wake Island on the night of September 25. Nauru was bombed on September 26 by Seventh Air Force Mitchells. The airfield and gun emplacements were hit. There was meager antiaircraft fire.

Liberators of the Seventh Air Force flew over Truk Atoll on September 26 in search for possible enemy shipping attempting to supply the isolated gar­rison. No shipping was found and bomb loads were dropped on installations still remaining on the key islands. Moderate antiaircraft fire was encountered.

Defense installations at Jaluit Atoll in the Marshalls were bombed on September 26 by Venturas of Group One, Fleet Air Wing Two, and Corsairs of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing. On the same day Corsairs and Dauntless dive bombers of the Fourth Marine Aircraft Wing further neutralized Wotje, Maloelap, and Mille Atolls.

Eleventh Air Force Liberators bombed Southern Paramushiru September 26. There was no enemy opposition.

 

 

CINCPAC COMMUNIQUÉ NO. 136, SEPTEMBER 29, 1944

 

Kongauru Island and an unnamed Island near it, both in the Palau Group Northeast of Peleliu Island, were secured on September 28 (West Longitude Date) by United States Marines. On Peleliu enemy troops cornered in eaves on Umurbrogol Hill are still offering bitter resistance. Mopping up operations are proceeding in the Northern sector of Peleliu and on Angaur Island. Through September 28, our troops had counted 8,717 enemy dead on Peleliu and 1,055 on Angaur, and had captured more than 150 enemy troops who have been made prisoners of war.

The airfield at Babelthuap Island was attacked on September 28, by Corsair fighters of the Second Marine Aircraft Wing, which scored numerous direct hits on the landing strips.