Mission Details for Gerolstein (#184)

Briefing

Details

Number: 184
Date: 12/27/1944 12:00:00 AM
Commander: Maj. A.H. Chapman
Crews Briefed: 39
Details: Railroad marshalling yards

Flying Control

Runway: 23
Engines: 0815 Thumbnail image for /Images/Takeoff/Plan23.jpg
Taxi: 0830
Take Off: 0845
E.T.R.: 1405
Notes: The Group was briefed at 0430 hours, after which times were delayed by one hour, which is reflected in the times set out above. Loading was eighteen 250 pound General Purpose bombs and 2,500 gallons of gas. Because bad weather was expected upon return, crews were briefed to expect diversions.
38 aircraft had taken off by 0920 hours, after which the three spares and one abort returned early. By 1623 hours, all operational aircraft had landed safely under extremely poor weather conditions. Flying Control notes that "Lt. Col. Seawell talked aircraft of high squadron onto runway."

Debriefing

Aircraft: 36
Lost Over Continent: 0
Lost Other: 0
Summary: The 401st furnished the three squadrons comprising the 94th Combat Wing "C" Group. The Lead and Low Squadrons were able to make visual runs at the target and achieved excellent results. The High Squdron, which was forced to make a 360 degree turn while approaching the target, wound up by bombing the marshalling yards at St. Vith. Flak was meager but accurate, resulting in major battle damage to one aircraft and lesser damage to nine others.
Upon returning to Deenthorpe, the Group encountered low fog and haze which created the most difficult flying conditions since the field became operational. Two and one half hours were needed to land all the returning aircraft, guided by Lt. Col. Seawell, who was stationed in a caravan at the end of the runway. All landed without mishap.

Mission Assignments

Squadron Participants