WAR DEPARTMENT

WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF

OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 16,

To: Secretary of War
Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff
G-2 (Return to OPD)

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

SECTION I.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

From Butler (to AAF): Ten heavy bombers, three medium bombers, and
twelve fighters attacked Kiska October 14. A
fuel or ammunition dump was exploded, many fires
were started and the three remaining Japanese
float planes in the harbor were destroyed.
*rom Bone steel: (1) US pursuit aircraft intercepted an enemy Focke
Wulf Kurier over Iceland, October 14. It escaped
with some damage.
(2) US ground troops in Iceland fired on en enemy
Focke Wulf, October 15.
Reports completion of a survey for the proposed
airfield at Egilsstadir (for the protection of
eastern Iceland). Requests early approval so thet
work may begin. (Eisenhower and Arnold concur).

3. From Bonesteel:

4.. From Spaatz (to AAF): Fourteen P-38fs and 36 Spitfires participated in a
British bombing attack on the docks at Le Havre.
No enemy aircraft were encountered, end all our
fighters returned.
5. From Eisenhower: Recommends that he be authorized to prescribe witness
fee rates in his discretion, as the proposed authority
to pay maximum r&tes of the US or foreign countries
would not afford relief from burdensome administrative
procedures.
Submits priorities for November troop shipment; t c the U. K.

6.

From Eisenhower:

VICTORY BUY

- 1

7-

From Eisenhower:

Inquires as to the probable date of delivery to Pointe

Noire of two communications airplanes promised DeGeulle
for October, as he is again stressing his need.
US and British fighters intercepted a heavily escorted
Stuka raid in Egypt October 13. The Stukas turned and
fled, two and possibly four being shot down, also a
ME-109. One of our airplanes is missing.
Three B-^-E's attacked Tobruk harbor, October 13. Two
hits were scored on a large merchant vessel and another
hit demolished a lighter. One Italian fighter inter cepting this mission was destroyed; our airplanes
returned.
(1) Operations report for October 13 Large ship concen trations were observed in the Buin-Faisi area and in the
vicinity of Buka. At Kavieng, New Ireland, there Was
intense action at the airdrome and wharves. Dilli harbor
(Timor) has been mined by the enemy.
Allied forward units forced the enemy back one mile
in the Myola area, our aircraft attacking the enemy's
rear installations.
On request of Ghormley, more than 30 tons of bombs
were dropped on the airdromes and grounded aircraft at
Buka and Rabaul as a measure of cooperation -with Uis
reinforcement of Guadalcanal.
(2) Operations report for October 14. Some of the
enemy ships left the Buin-Faisi area during the night
of October 13-14J Allied aircraft bombed the Lae airdrome,
and enemy positions on Goodenough Island. Allied ground
forces continued their advance beyond Myola.
Operations report for October 13. In an attack October 12
from Guadalcanal, 6,000 lbs of bombs were dropped on the
airdrome at Buka; at least ten grounded fighters were
destroyed. The Japanese were completely surprised. One
Zero was destroyed in the air.
On October 13, six B-17fs dropped 14,000 lbs of bombs
on the runways and grounded fighters at Buka. Twenty-two
- 500 lb. bombs were dropped on the harbor at Tonolei, one
hit and several near misses being scored on a cargo ship.
Out of twenty-six Zeros intercepting these missions, six
were destroyed. Our bombers landed at Guadalcanal.
That night, the enemy shelled and bombed Guadalcanal,
killing four men and damaging two

8.

From Maxwell:

9.

From Brereton:

10.

From MacArthur:

11,

From Harmon:

0(0

12.

From Harmon;

Replies that tv/o B-26's, en route to Australia with crews,

have been diverted to the South Pacific, and are now with
the 69th Bombardment Squadron in New Caledonia.
Replies that the estimated production of nickel matte for
October is 600 tons and that one month's coal stock for
twin-furnace operation is on hand. Future production
depends upon the delivery of coal; 24,000 tons per month
are needed if a third furnace is to be placed in operation.
Inquires if favorable action has been taken on his request
for service units of which the need is becoming more acute.
Requests authority to accept five 5-inch guns from the Navy
for emplacement on the east and west coasts of Oahu.

13.

From Patch;

14.. From Emmons; 1516. From Emmons;

From Reeder, (OPD): Considers one battalion AA, one battalion 37 mm AA, one
infantry battalion, one tank company (light) and one anti tank company are required to complete the defenses of Canton. OTHER ACTION TAKEN

SECTION II. 1.

Asked DeWitt to consult with Adm. Freeman and recommend as to the practica bility and advisability of occupying a designated island further west than
that for which arrangements have been made.
Notified Stilwell that the Ramgarh plan has been approved by the British
Chiefs of Staff, and that Wave 11 has been so notified. Inquired how many
Chinese he contemplates training at Ramgarh, and the capacity of the
training center.
(AAF) asked Stilwell's views 10th Air Force to Stilwell's Chennault*s claims that with obtain complete supremacy of as to transferring Chennault's unit from the
direct command, also as to the validity of
50 medium bombers and 150 fighters he could
the air over China.

2.

/+.

(AAF) notified Kenney and Emmons thc.t the 90th Heavy Bombardment Group,
from Hawaii, will relieve in Australia the 19th Group which will move to
Hawaii and eventually to the mainland.

5. Notified Emmons that he has been designated a Military Commander by the

Secretary of War pursuant to authority contained in Executive Order No.
9066 of 19 February.

- 3

SECTION III.

PLAHS

No action reported by JCS or CCS.

; T. HANDY, J
; Major General, '
Assistant Chief of Staff-.

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 17, 1942

To: Secretary of War Chief of Stsff'.W^ Deputy Chief of \c Commanding General,^ Array Air Forces Commanding General,"~~ Services of Supply W) Assistant Chief of Staff, G-2 (Return to OPD)

is

TURN BY COMMISSIONED MESSENGER

SECTION I. 1.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Three B-26!s on October 15 made a low altitude borabirg attack
on the cargo ship in Gertrude Cove, causing a fire which
was still burning several hours later. One bomber was
lost due to antiaircraft fire.
(1) Two P-4.0's from Dinjan on October 14. attacked enemy
bnrrecks et Lonkir.
(2) Twelve B-25's escorted by eleven ?-4.0's operating
from Kunming, October 15, successfully bombed the airdrorre
at Lashio* The entire southwest section of the town was
also set ablaze, the fire being visible for forty T:.iles.
All our aircraft returned safely.

From DeWitt:

From Bissell:

From ,r,lacArthur:

Operations summary, October 15. Reportsthe presence of

increased numbers of enemy fighter planes based at Euka.
Allied patrols penetrated to within two miles of Mubo, rear
Salamaua (Mew Guinea), October 13. No further advance is
reported in the !\4yola area; our "light bombers end fighters
attacked the enemy rear installations.
A B-17 attacked an enemy light cruiser southwest of Faisi
(Solomons), probably damagirg the ship, Australian
bombers attacked Aileu (South of Dilli), Timor.

From Harmon:

Battery K, 2A6th F.A. Bn., left Kew Caledonia for Kdeni,

Santa Cruz Islands, October 15.
Recommends one infantry division be expedited to Fiji.
Replied thot movement of reinforcements from Hawaii depends upon the availability of shipping c-nd recomnended

From Harmon: yiCTORY

UNITED STATES [AVINO.1

BUY
AND

Action:

BONDS
STAMPS

-1

that he discuss with Ghormley the desirability of

diverting to Fiji those combat elements of the 43d
Division now at sea. Navy concurs.
6. From Harmon: Reports as to the air unitr on hand n those necersary
.d for the successful completion of the present operation.

SECTION II.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Requested DeWitt's remarks end recommendations as to the Navy proposal that

Teller be developed as the port for the Seward Peninsula.
2. Prepared letter to Adm. King for C/S signature agreeing that the problem
in Alaska can only be solved by the ejection of the Japanese and suggesting
that amphibious training for the operation be conducted by the use of
existing facilities in the US.
Replied to Eisenhower that two communications airplanes for the Fighting
French will be ferried to Pointe Noire within the next month.
Asked Stilwell for the numerical designations of the Chinese divisions of
the 30-Division plan. Inquired if the three divisions expected at Ramgarh
would be part of the thirty. Asked his views as to which units could be
used in an offensive operation, and when they would be ready.
Informed MacArthur that acting upon his recommendation the State. Department
has notified the Government of Portugal thot the U. S. Government considers
it most important that everything possible be done to maintain the
Portuguese administration and sovereignty in Timor.
(a) Directed Emmons to dispatch by water transportation one squadron of
25 P . . - fighters, with spares, to New Caledonia. Pilots and key mainten -40F ance personnel are to be sent by earliest evailable air transport.
Directed Emmons to notify Nimitz. Informed Harmon and Ghormley.
(b) Informed Emmons that arrangements have been made for a ship which can
deliver these fighters to Noumea about November 12. Notified Harmon.
(c) Notified Harmon and Ghormley that 14- P-39's (replacements) now en route
should arrive within the liext few days.
(d) Directed Emmons to reinforce the 19th Heavy Bombardment Group, in
Australia, with one squadron of the 90th Heavy Bombardment Group from Hawaii,
without delay. Directed Emmons to notify Nimitz. Informed Kenney.
informed Emmons that before authority can be given for the acquisition of
five Navy guns, the matters of responsibility for ammunition supply,
additional equipment, and manning personnel must be clarified.

_3. 4.

5.

6.

- 2

SECTION III. 1. 2.

PLANS

CCS accepted, with minor addition, CCS 37/1 "Amended Charter of the Combined
Meteorological Committee".
CCS approved the report by the Combined Munitions Assignment Board on CCS 110
"Motorized Vehicles", subject to the limitations proposed by General Marshall, and invited the Combined Production and Resources Board to report as to the feasibility of the recommendation in CCS 110/3. CCS abolished the Robinson Committee, and agreed that close collaboration should be maintained between the US and British Navy Staffs in Washington to ensure that the productive effort is put to the best possible use in the smaller type combat vessels. With respect to CCS 102/1 "Production Policy", CCS informed C.P.R.B. that the requirements as transmitted by CCS in September, 1942, should be accepted as the basis for planning, these requirements to be adjusted from time to time in accordance with strategic needs.

v7.

fHOS. T.
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 3

W A \ DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF OPERATIONS DIVISION WASHINGTON

1700, To: Secretary of War

Chief of Staff j
Deputy Chief of S
Commanding G e n e r a } ^ \ ^

October 18, 1942

Army Air Forces Q W^T;

Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff,
G-2 (Return to OPD)

IN TURK Ex COMMISSIONED

MESSEiiGER

ECTION I.
1.

MESS/GES RECEIVE!

AIIP ACTIOM TAKEN

From Castner:

Six B - 2 6 ' E attacked two Japanese destroyers about

twenty miles northeast of Kiska Island, October 16.
Hits set both destroyers afire, causing one to be
abandoned by its crew.
An RAF airplane unsuccessfully attacked an enemy
Focke-Yhilf over Iceland, October 16.
Recommends that a method be worked out in the U. S.
to earmark specialized personnel to meet the needs
of the impending expansion of the 12th Air Force.
Operations report, October 16: Our ground forces were
endeavoring to force crossings over Eora Creek (north
of Myola); Allied aircraft continued to harass posi tions in the enemy's rear. Three Australian bombers
attacked a town on Timor, demolishing buildings and
starting large fires.
Reports that Nimitz does not desire to send any air
base service groups from Hawaii if the two service
groups scheduled to depart in November for the South
Pacific leave as plumed.

From Bonesteel:

3.

From Doolittle:

From MacArthur:

From Emmons:

SECTION II.
1.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

CTORY B U Y

Requested DeWitt to submit the defense requirement? of his command based

on: (1) The use of regimental combat teams, plus mechanized cavalryj
(2) The use of combat teans alone; informing him that these combat teams
eventually may be composed almost entirely of limited service end overage
personnel.

- 1

2.

Informed MacArthur of the status of B-26's which h- ve not yet been

delivered to him. Two have been diverted by Harmon, one rentins in
the U. S., one is at Hav/aii, and one is en rout'- to the Southwest
Pacific from Hawaii.
Informed Harmon th-it, pending the establishment in his eref> of depot?
with adequate supplies of all classes, he should call on Emmons for
such assistance as m&y be feasible, ?nti as the emergency of the situa tion may dictate. Advised Emmons.

3.

SECTION III.

PLANS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 19, 1942.

To: Secretary of War
Chief of Staff '
Deputy Chief of Sttxf<K
Commanding General,
Army Air Forces
Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of
G-2 (Return to OPD)

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

SECTION I.
1.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AMD ACTION TAKEN

Several hostile bombers and reconnaissance airplanes
were over Iceland October 18. One of our P-39's
collided with a JU-88 which escaped. A JU-86 over
Jan Mayen was fired on by the Norwegians.
Operations summary for October 17. The enemy was forced
to withdraw from the north bank of Eora Creek (north of
Myola) and, by evening, Allied forward elements had
made further progress. Airdromes at Buka, Buin, and
Rabaul were attacked by bombers at COMSQPAC's request.
The Salamaua area was also bombed by Allied aircraft.
Air reconnaissances were continued and the location of
enemy naval vessels reported.
Replies recommending that no change be made in the
routing of the 43rd Division as plans heve been com pleted for the rapid trcnsit of the elements of the
43rd through Auckland to New Caledonia and Espiritu
Santo. A reinforced New Zealand brigade will also
arrive in New Caledonia early in November. Recommends
that Fiji be reinforced by troops from Hawaii or the
US as early as practicable.
Inquired of Harmon as to the composition of the N.Z.
reinforced brigade and his plans for its employment.
In reply to War Department request, recommends that the
ground echelon of one B-17-E squadron be dispatched
direct to Fiji; states that ground echelons for five
such squadrons are now in the South Pacific. If all
service units arrive as planned, the immediate necessity
for a full air base group in the South Pacific does not
exist. In lieu of the service units previously asked

From Bonesteel:

2.

From MacArthur:

3.

From Harmon:

Action:

4.

From Harmon:

VICTORY BUY

- 1

itt

for, reauests that one service souadron be sent to

Espiritu Santo.
5From Harmon (To Arnold); RNZAF fighter squadron is due to arrive at Tonga-
tabu about October 26 and will take over the equipment
and airplanes of the 68th Squadron, which will move to
New Caledonia.
From Johnson (Neal C . ) : Assumed command of Efate October 17.

6.

SECTION II. 1.

OTHER ACTlUi-i

TJIKEM

Colonel Mc.thewson. OPD, arrived in Panama to discuss with Andrews the

reduction in the Troop Basis for the Caribbean Defense Command, in com pliance with C/S directive.
Prepsred letter to the State Department for signature of the Secretary
of War stating that it is not contemolated that any further US colored
troops will be sent to the Belgian Congo during the present war Notified Maxwell that Adler will head the U. S. contingent of a combined
mission to Russia to discuss future operations.

2.

3.

A-* .a. Directed Emmons to dispatch the 90th Heavy Bombardment Group from
Hawaii to the Southwest Pacific. The airplanes are to fly, ground
echelons to move by water as corresponding elements of the 307th Heavy
Bombardment Group arrive in Hawaii.
_b. Directed that uhe 307th Group be diverted from shipment to the UK
and moved to Hawaii. Notified Eisenhower, adding that replticements of
the aircraft T.vill be made by November- Informed PaacArthur ?>nc Nimitz.
_c. Notified Andrews that it has been necessary to divert (to Hawaii)
the 6 B-2A-D's scheduled for his theater: their delivery will be delayed
approximately one month.
_d. Directed Emmons to dispatch one squadron of P-39's with flight and
maintenance crews, from Christmas I. to the South Pacific in addition to
the souadron of P-4.0-Ffs being moved from Hawaii. Informed Harmon.
_e. Directed Harmon to divert to New Caledonia for the period of the
present emergency the 33rd Troop Carrier Squadron, en rouie to the South
Pacific. Notified Kenney and Emmons.
5. In reply to reouest from Emmons, informed him that the 11th Bombardment
Group, 72nd Squadron, and the other heavy bombardment squadron now
en route to the South Pacific are still assigned to the 7th Air Force.
Replying to Patch, requested his preference as to an engineer regiment,
general service (colored), available January 1, 194-3, or a simile-r white
regiment available February 15.

6.

7.

Directed AGF to activate in New Caledonia e division field artillery hq,

and hq. btry. in compliance with Harmon's request.
Directed SOS to take the necessary action to expedite the settlement of
minor claims in Tongatabu as recommended by Lockwood,

8.

SECTION III.

PL/NS

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY/ /
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 3

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 20, 1942

To:
Secretary of War
Chief of Staff/4.'
Deputy Chief of
Commanding General, . , Army Air Forces (ft <\
Commanding General,
/ Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff J ,,!j ,

IN TURM BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

G-2
SECTION I. 1.

(Return to OPD)

'

Y
ACTIOFi TAKEN

MESSAGES RECEIVED

From Buckner:

Four B-24's on October 19 again successfully attacked

Kiska; a heavy explosion, thought to be gasoline
stores, resultfed. No enemy aircraft were encountered.
T&naga was reconnoitered on October 17 by Army troops
lander] by a flying boat.
On October 19 an enemy airplane attacked the Harcfrvick
airdrome, destroying several small buildings, and
damaging other buildings end one of our aircraft.
(1) Two P-^O's, operating from Dinj an October 17,
attacked stations along the railroad north of Myitkyina
with demolition bombs and machine gun fire.
(2) On October 19, a P-4.0 intercepted a Japanese twin engined airplane over Dirgan, damaging end possibly
destroying it.

2.

From Spasts:

3.

From Bissell:

From Bissell:

Requests a fourth ferrying squadron for the Asiatic

Theater.
Operations report October 18. Four heavy bombardment missions were carried out against enemy shipping and airdromes in the Tonolei-Fcisi area at COy.'rOP/.C's re quest. One, possibly three, heavy cruisers '"ere damtged by 1000-pound bombs, eight enemy seaplanes v?ere damaged or destroyed, encl a 500-ton vessel TILS set afire. Other air attacks were made on shipping and grouno targets near Goodenough Island, and the Bismercks. In the Admiralty Islands a ship, probably a weather-reporting vessel, v/es set afire.

5.

From ?/IacArthur

- 1

In Mew Guinea, Allied ground forces continued to

make progress in spite of enemy counterattacks.
The positions of six cruisers, twenty-four destroyers,
and other enemy shipping were renorted as a result of
air reconnaissances of the Solomons, the Bismarck
Archipelago, and the Admiralty Islends.
6. From Kenney_; Asks that the five months1 supply level of air force
munitions in the Southwest Pacific Theater be in creased to provide an eight months1 supply.

SECTION II. 1.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Asked PeWitt to investigate report that revetments and dispersal areas

for airplanes at Adak are being delayed by other work, and to take
necessary corrective action.
Prepared letter to the State Department for signature of the Secretary
of War confirming the under star cling that the War Department doer not
consider it advisable to accede to the request for a military mission
to Iran until Ridley har reported upon its advisability.
Prepared, letter to Sir John Dill for C/S-signature, enclosing telegrams
exchangee! between C/s and Stilwell concerning the initial Wavell-Stilwell
conference on the Ramgarh Training Project.
Prepared for C/S signature a memorandum to The President discussing
plans for future action in the Southwest Pacific Area.

2.

3.

A.

SECTION III.

PLANS

Prepared for submission to JCS by C/S a recommendation that the Joint

US Strategic Committee be reconstituted.

IOS. T. HAIIDYJ C*\

Major Genert1,
Asrdstent Chief of Staff.

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 2 1 , 194.2.

To: Secretary of War Chic f of Staff / Le- uty Chief cf Commanding C-enertl,-' Arm;; Air forces
Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of' Staf
G-2 (Return to OPD)

TUK1 BY C i j I O . . I
MESSENGPJR

SECTION I. 1.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AKD ACTION TAKEN

Requests authority to activate one reconnaissance troop
each for the 24.th and 25th Infantry Divisions, these
additional units being needed for possible offensive
operationsby these divisions.
In reply to lYar Department request to Patch for prefer ence as to two engineer regiments, recommends that the
engineer regiment, general service (colored), be assigned
to Espiritu Santo, and the white regiment of the same
type be assigned to ftew Caledonia.
Requests an increase in the monthly automatic replace ments of airplanes and pilots to bring his units to
authorized strength, and to maintain them at this
strength. Requests information as to automatic replace ment of medium and heavy bomber airplanes end combat crews.
Recommends compliance with the British request for
construction of a two-way all-weather road from El Obeid
to El Geneina, Sudan, as a US project under the African-
Middle Eastern command, this after completion of present
projects in the Middle-East and Persia-Iraq. The purpose
of this route (also a section of the proposed Lagos-
Khartoum road) is to provide adequate service for
projected air traffic using the airfields at El Fasher,
El Geneina, and Nyala. Construction, if approved, will
be undertaken without diversion of road equipment in use
by, or destined for, the British in the Middle East.

From iimmons:

2.

From Harmon:

3.

From Bissell:

From Maxwell:

-1

40 r

20 T

20

40

40 40

ZEE
20

20

60

5-

I'rom Brereton;

On October 19, eleven U. S. medium bombers, cooperating

with the Ri\F, attacked an enemy landing field1 in u-gypt,
Tobruk harbor was raided by five American heavy bombers,
which secured direct hits on two merchant vessels. All
aircraft returned safely.
Replies to query concerning OSS request for submachine
guns that the OSS project, for Burma only, is ;^pprove(>,
but that'no submachine guns are needed at present or
contemplated for the future.
Lists the officers needed for the Headquarters, Ramgarh
Project; its infantry and artillery sections; and etch of
the ten corps (of three divisions each).

6.

From Stilwell;

7-

From Stilwell;

8.

From Jones (Iceland): Several hostile and unidentified aircraft were over
Iceland on October 19, one enemy airplane following a
ship a f e r miles off the east coast.
'v

SECTION II. 1.

OTHI^R ACTION TAKEN

Suggested that Harmon reconsider the contemplated transfer of the equip ment of the 68th Fighter Squadron to the RNZAF in view of the fact that
replacement of the aircraft for the 68th Squadron cannot be undertaken.

SECTION III.
1.

PLANS

JCS agreed to request Presidential authority for a production program of

82,000 combat planes and 25,000 training planes in 194-3; directed the
Joint Planners to establish monthly schedules, subject to practical
limitations, for the attainment of procuction objectives for 194-3, as
requested by Mr. kelson, these schedules to form the basis of the
balanced overall production program to be presented to the President.
(JCS 134, "U S War*Production Objectives, 1943")
JCS amended the Joint U.S. Communications Eoard Cherter and recommended
to the CCS that the Combined Communications Eoard Charter be similarly
amended. (JCS 60/5, "Charter for Joint U.S. ana Combined Communications
Board Recommended Modifications To")
JCS deferred action on JCS 133, "Reconstitution of the Joint U.S.
Strategic Committee1!

2.

JCS directed the Secretariat to inform the representatives of the

British Chiefs of Staff of JCS concurrence in the enclosures to JCS
131 and 131/1, "Proposed Dispatch of U.S. and British Air Forces to
the Caucasus", and of Adler's selection as head of the U.S. section
of the proposed mission.
JCS directed that JCS 93 be removed from the agenda, agreeing that anti submarine patrols would be carried out with the forces already provided
and that all U.S. air resources will be considered as a strategic reserve.
(JCS 93/1, "Plan and Organization for Employment of AAF Units in Anti submarine Campaign Deployment as of April 1, 1 9 W )

THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 3

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 22, 1942.

To: Secretary of War
Chief of Staff/
Deputy Chief ^
Commanding General,
Army Air Forces
Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staf
G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I.

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Requests an aircraft warning company for the protection
of Tanaga efter its occupation.
Replies that prior to the receipt of War Department
message, Buckner had been directed to submit a progress
report on the engineer work at Adak, including dispersal
areas and protection measures for aircraft.
An enemy Focke-Vvrulf Condor reconnoitered Iceland on
October 20. It was attacked by our antiaircraft batteries,
but the result of the fire is unknown.
Nine B-17's attacked the Cherbourg Maupertuis .Airdrome
at noon October 21. Eighteen B-17's attacked the sub marine base at Lorient at the same time. Adverse
weather prevented many other bombers from reaching these
targets. The attacks were supported bv US and British
fighter squadrons. Enemy opposition was encountered at
Lorient and three of our bomberc failed to return.

From DeWitt:

From BelVitt:

3.

From Bonesteel:

Fron Spaatz:

From Maxwell (to BPR): Reports on American participation in e series of

attacks on Axis landing ground installations in Egypt
October 20, in which five enemy fighters and one JU-88
were destroyed. All of our aircraft returned safely.
From Maxwell: Recommends substitution of Shingler for Adler as head
of the US contingent of a combined mission to Russia,
Adler being needed in the Middle East in view of
imminent operations.

VICTORY
B U Y

- 1

7. From Stilwell:

Replies that for purposes of security the numerical

designations of the divisions of the 30-Division plan,
and information as to offensive operations, will be
furnished via Timberman, OPD (now visiting him).
The two divisions at Ramgarh are not included in the
30-Division plan.
Operations report for October 19. Air attacks were
made on the Rekata seaplane base, on enemy supplies
at Tassafaronga (north end of Guadalcanal), and on
an enemy destroyer. Three enemy airplanes were shot
down.
Submits composition of New Zealand force of 13,000;
it is to be employed solely to augment the present
defense forces in New Caledonia.
Requests that the P-39 squadron from Christmas Island,
consigned to the South Pacific, be shipped to Fiji.
Notified Emmons.
The 1st Battalion, 147th Infantry, with Ordnance,
Finance, Quartermaster, Signal, and Engineer detach ments left Tongatabu for Ndeni, Santa Cruz Islands,
on October 20.

8. From Harmon:

9. From Harmon;

10. From Harmon: Action: 11. From Lockwood

SECTION II.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. 'The Amphibious Corps ceased to operate as such October 19, its training
having been completed. Gen. Anderson relinquished his command that day.
2. Informed the State Department of proposals being made by a San Francisco
firm for the sale to Latin-American countries of worthless military
equipment at greatly inflated prices.

3. Transmitted to Stilwell Sir John Dill!s explanation of the British

position with respect to the Chinese Army training project.
U. Asked MacArthur if he desires a group headquarters for the four troop-
carrier squadrons now present in, or en route to, his theater. An
additional group of four squadrons will be sent him in January. Re quested his views as to inclusion of gliders.
5. Informed Emmons that orders will be issued for the constitution and
activation of a mechanized reconnaissance troop each for the 2^.th and
25th Divisions.
2

.5*3

6.

Informed Emmons that the USAT "Republic" will be returned to Hawaii

to effect the necessary redistribution of forces remaining there.
PLAINS

SECTION III.

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

PHOS. T. HANDY, /
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 3

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

17oo

, October 2 3 , 1942

To:

Secretary of W Chief of Staff Deputy Chief of Commanding General Amgr Air Forces
Commanding General,
Services of Supply /\
Assistant Chief of Stafr, ^ j
G-2 (Return to OPD)

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED MESSENGER

SECTION-I. 1.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Submits, with concurrence, Buckner's recommendations
that the registration of all employees of US Engineer
Department be transferred to Selective Service Boards in
the Alaskan Districts where they are now employed.
This would permit their immediate induction into the
service upon termination of deferment or employment,
thereby giving needed trained replacements to engineer
units in the Alaskan Defense Command, and effecting an
economy in shipping.
Two hostile airplanes were observed over Iceland October
21.
US commanders in the French colonies in the racific are
reported to be providing clothing; and pay for native
militia mobilized for duty with our forces. DeGaulle
cites existing agreements between the US and the French
National Committee whereby the local French authorities
should recruit, clothe, and pay militia and place them
at our disposal. He has asked his Washington Delegation
to present his views on this question.
Operations report for October 21. Reconnaissance disclosed
a considerable enemy naval force still present in the
Buin-Faisi area. Other shipping was observed off Kavisng,
New Ireland.
On October 18, nine B-17's bombed the dock area, shipping,
and an airdrome at Rabaul; one ship was hit and several
large fires were started. On October 21, Maobisse
(Timor) and Gasmata (New Britain) were attacked by Allied
Bombers.

From DeWitt:

2.

From Bonesteel:

3. From Eisenhower:

From Mac Arthur:

The enemy was forced out of his prepared positions north

of Templeton's Crossing (Eora Creek, New Guinea) by a
flank attack after hard fighting on the morning of
October 21.
From IfecArthur: From MacArthur: Requests assignment of 26 light observation aircraft
(artillery liaison) to his theater.
Requests one night fighter squadron for his theater in
order to combat enemy night bombardment aircraft which
are expected as a consequence of the enemy's heavy day
losses.
Reports that he assumed command at Auckland as COI.IGENSOPAC
ADMIN, October 20.
Replies that Nimitz has agreed to furnish ainmunition for
the five 5-inch Navy guns to be acquired from Navy. The
guns will be manned by existing units as additional
assignment, and can be emplaced and ready for use in
about a month, with no additional personnel or equipment
required.
Requests authority to reconstitute the present garrison
at Fanning Island (one company from the 25th Division) as
the Fanning Task Force.
Replies that he is proceeding with his plan to transfer
(to the RNZAF) the equipment of the 68th Fighter Squadron
at Tongatabu as pilots and ground echelon of the 68th ,
Fighter Squadron are urgently needed in New Caledonia and
Guadalcanal. Halsey concurs.
Operations reports:

7. From Lincoln: 8. From Emmons:

9.

From Emmons:

10.

From Harmon:

11.

From Harmon:

Oct. 1A; 9 enemy grounded airplanes were attacked, many being

damaged.
Oct. 15: Japanese naval gunfire and bombs had made the airfield
at Guadalcanal unsuitable for B-17 operations; enemy air
and ground action continued there.
11 B-17's were dispatched to attack an enemy force engag ed in a landing operation 8 miles west of the air field
at Guadalcanal. When the bombers arrived one transport
was burning, 24,500 pounds of bombs were, dropped, possibly
damaging one cargo ship and setting afire one battleship
or light cruiser and one transport. Our bombers were
attacked by 18 to 20 Zero fighters; 8 Zeros were destroyed,
3 probably destroyed and 3 known damaged. All B-17's,
though badly damaged, returned to Espiritu Santo. Navy
and Marine aircraft based at Guadalcanal were inactive and

the airfield was being shelled by an enemy destroyer

at the time of this air action.

Oct

l6

An aerial striking force dropped 22,000 pounds of bombs

on the Kokurabona area (8 miles west of Guadalcanal air field) starting large fires. Two hits were claimed on
a beached transport which the enemy was unloading. Of
ten enemy fighters which attacked our bombers two were
shot down.

Oc

t . 17; The Guadalcanal airfield was still unsuitable for heavy

bomber operations.
The B-17 carrying Rickenbacker from Hawaii to Canton
having lost its way went down at sea shortly after 24.00
GCT Oct. 21. All airplanes and surface vessels at
Canton are searching for it, and additional aircraft are
being sent to assist.

12.

From Emmons;

SECTION II.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Notified Maxwell that Adler's designation has been confirmed by CCS and
cannot be changed. Suggested that a temporary deputy be provided by Maxwell if
the mission leaves before Adler1s services can be spared.
2. Informed Col. Kirchhoff of action being taken by the State Department,
and-'through the Joint Security Control, to secure British action to prevent further
release of prejudicial information of US forces by British news agencies.
3. Explained to Stilwell the reasons for making the India-China Ferry Service
a direct responsibility of the War Department.
A. 'informed Emmons that the Navy will establish,one standard landing craft
unit in Hawaii as soon as equipment is available, this unit to be expanded as
additional craft beome available. Navy is changing the destination of the land ing craft unit from Hawaii to Oahu. Requested that Emmons plan accordingly if
Nimitz concurs.

SECTION III.

PLANS

No action reported by JCS or CCS.

IHOS. T. HANDY,,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff,

"

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 24, 1942.

To:

Secretary of war
Chief of Staff,
Eeputy Chief of tetaW^
Commanding General,^ Army Air Forces Commanding G eneral,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff,
G-2 (Return to OPD)

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED

MESSENGER

SECTION I. 1.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Numerous hostile aircraft were reported over Iceland on
October <2 and 23.
On October 22 eighteen American medium bombers attacked
enemy landing fields, direct hits being observed on two
aircraft. One bomber was lost as a result of interception
by thirty enemy fighters, one of which was shot down by
our fighter escort. American fighters and fighter-bombers
also attacked enemy motor transport along desert roads.
The Eritish offensive started at 2200, October 23.
Replies recommending the diversion of one Stearman training
biplane as a gift to the Afghanistan Air Force. Permission
for this diversion, from Lend-Lease stocks in Karachi, has
been obtained from the Chinese Government.
Operations report for October 22. The Japanese in New
Guinea were forced back to the high ground north of Eora
Creek, where they are making a stand. At the request of
Admiral Halsey, Australian Catalinas attacked shipping in
the Buin-Faisi area where aerial reconnaissances disclosed
a concentration of some 49 enemy naval vessels.
Photographs made at Rabaul harbor on the afternoon of
October 22 showed 26 large merchant ships as well as naval
and other craft.

rrom Bonesteel:

irom Brereton:

3. 4.

From Maxwell; From Stilwell:

5.

From MacArthur:

-1

6. 7.

From Emmonst From Emmons:

Requests that the combat troops in Hawaii be brought to

full T/0 strength.
The search for Captain Rickenbacker during October 22
was unsuccessful. An organized search by the Army and Navy
continued during October 23.

SECTION II. 1.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Informed Eisenhower of approval by the Comptroller General of further

changes in Army Regulations to permit commanders of troops abroad to fix
fees to be paid to witnesses at US courts-martial, provided that the
local rates or US rates, whichever are the higher, are not exceeded.
(JCS) directed Emmons to dispatch the second squadron of the 90th Bombard ment Group (heavy) to New Caledonia for temporary duty, instead of
Australia. Notified MacArthur.
Emmons replied that the prospective date of departure of the flying
echelon is October 26.

2.

3.

Authorized Emmons to accept five additional 5" guns from the Navy.

U Notified Harmon that the transfer of airplanes and fixed equipment of

the 68th Fighter Squadron to the RNZAF is approved; requested that no
further commitments to equip NZ squadrons be made without prior War Dept.
approval.
5. Informed Stilwell that the War Ministry is instructing Wavell to confer
with him regarding release of documents.
PLANS

SECTION III. 1.

CCS accepted CCS 75/2, "System of Command for Combined USBritish Operations"
as amended, and subject to concurrence by the British Chiefs of Staff in
London.
CCS agreed to the proposed addition to CCS 8 9 A , "Revised Charter for
Combined Communications Board".
CCS instructed the Secretariat to prepare for their approval a draft reply
to the Combined Shipping Adjustment Board on CCS 110/4, 110/5, 110/6,
"Shipment of Motor Vehicles".

2. 3.

THOS. T. HANlfe,

Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 25, 1942

To: Secretary of War
Chief of Staff ! \
Deputy Chief of
Commanding Army Air Forces Commanding GeneraI7
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of
G-2 (Return to OPD)

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

SECTION I. 1.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Kiska harbor and submarine base were attacked on
October 23 by six B-24s, which dropped thirty-si*
1000-pound bombs in the area, obtaining a hit on the
submarine shed. No interception was attempted by
the enemy.

From Butler:

From Castner (Alaska): Some advanced Army units are now on Tanaga
Island.
3 From Maxwell: A successful attack on the Maveme airport, Crete, TTOS
made on October 22 by United States and British heavy
bombers.
The USAAF operated in support of the British desert
offensive, October 24. Some damage to our airplanes
was inflicted by antiaircraft fire, but only one was
forced down. There were no casualties.
Six B-25's operating from Kunming, successfully bombed
Tenchung on October 19.
On October 2$ about 60 Japanese bombers and fighters
attacked the airdrome at Dinjan, which had only three
minutes warning. One or two Allied transports were
shot down and eight others damaged. Several P-AO's
were destroyed on the ground. Four enemy airplanes
were shot down.
Bissell plans to attack advanced enemy airdromes at
Lashio and Myitkyina at daybreak, October 26, and shift
transport operations immediately so as to continue to sup port operations of the China Air Task Force and of the
Chinese.
- 1

4.. From Maxwell:

5. From Bissell: 6. From Bissell:

A simultaneous attack by some 35 airplanes v/as made

on the hAF airdrome at Chittagonp.
Requests immediate dispatch of 15 transports, with

7.

From MacArthur:

Operations report for October 23. Two attacks on

shipping in Rabaul were mode by B-17's,. which are
believed to have sunk one cruiser, one destroyer and
two merchant vessels, end to have damaged probably
six other merchantmen. Light bombers ett-cked enemy
lines of communication in the Kokoda area. All of our
airplanes returned. The Japanese made an ineffective
air attack on .Milne Bay.
There i? no further report of ground operations in Lew
Guinea.
Aerial reconnaissances were made over the northern
Solomons and eastern New Guinea, no substantial change
being observed in the enemy shipping concentration in
the Buin-Faisi area.

8.

From MacArthur;

Reports receiving from Admirals Nimitz and Halsey

messages expressing appreciation of the support and
assistance being rendered the operations in the South
Pacific .Area.
Recommends, with concurrence of COMSOPAC, that the
second smadron of the 90th Bomb. Gp. be retained
temporarily in the South Pacific Area until circum stances permit of its more effective use from Southwest
Pacific bases.

9.

From Harmon:

SECTION II. 1.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Informed Eisenhower of plans which are being made to reinforce the air
defenses of Iceland in order to curtail enemy reconnaissance activities
and to cope with attacks or raids which may be made when the weather
improves next spring.
Requested Harmon's comments on the practicability of employing the 13th
Air LeDot Group as a part of one large centrally-located air depot for
major servicing of air force units in both the South and Southwest
Pacific Areas.
PLANS

2.

SECTION III.

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HARDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 26, 1942.

To: Secretary of War
Chief of Staff ^ y
Peputy Chief of J t 5 *
Commanding Genera> Army Air Forces Commanding Gener
Services of S
Assistant Chief of Staff,
G-2 (Return to OPD)

IN TURIN BY COMMISSIONED

MESSENGER

SECTION I

MESSAGES RECEIVE!: AffE ACTION TAKEN

The submarine bsse at Kiska was again bombed. October
24. by three B-J/7's; results were unobserved. I o
l enemy aircraft were seen but unusually heavy anti aircraft fire was encountered.
The lending strip (100 ft. by 2300 ft.) on St. Paul
Island (Pribilof Is.) has been completed.
(1) Enemy reconnsissence aircraft, operating over
Iceland October 2U, were fired upon, by antiaircraft
units at Reykjavik and Hvalfjord, P-39's intercepted
Lnd shot dopm s. Focke Y/ulf Condor. Our aircraft
returned safely.
(2) Two enemy aircraft were reported over Iceland Oct. 25
Our air units were active over the battle tret in
Egyot on October 25, shootirp; down four out of seven
enemy aircraft destroyed.
Two P-^O's operating from Binjan attacked Chi
Burra, October 21; results were unobserved.
The airdromes in upper Assam rere attacked twice on
October 26r no details &TP S S yet ave.ileble. Ko ClvAC
aircraft were lost in the attack October 25 Informed Brereton end Fitzperald of the heavy sction of
the 10th Air Force from Hong Kong to Dinjan, requesting
th; t they r"o everything possible to get B-24- crev/s to
him auickly.

From Butler:

From Navy:

From Bonesteel:

I.

From Ifexwell;

5.

From Bissell:

6.

i'Tom Bis sell:

7.

From Bissell:

CTORY
B U Y

- 1

\ )
J

8.

From Stilwell;

Reports the urgent need for cir transport replace ments due to enemy action, and requests that the air
transports assigned to his theater cnO now on tem porary duty in the Middle East be delivered to Karachi.
Replies th&t the 13th Air Depot Group should be located
in New Caleaonia. The overhaul of engine-s and airplanes
in Australia woulc place an additional burden on ship ping; fighters in the South Pacific area can be flown
to New Caledonia.
The USAT Coolidge struck a mine and sank, October 26,
near Espiritu Santo. Personnel losses were small but
all equipment was lost.
Recommends that one infantry division be rushed to
Fiji, and that complete reequipment for the regimental
combat team (of the 43rci Division) and one battalion
155 mm guns lost on the Coolidge be expedited to New
Caledonia.

9.

From Harmon:

10. From Harmon:

11. From Lutes, SOS (to CG, SOS): Reports that HC, SOS, South Pacific Area
and HQ, COMSOPAC are moving to Noumea.

SFCTIGN II. 1.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Sent Adler (through Maxwell) a directive covering his duties with the
Anglo-American mission to Russia.
Replied to Maxwell that recent commitments to his area preclude the
allocation of resources necessary to construct the proposed El Geneina-
El Obeid road.
Asked LlacArthur if he can use any of the officers and enlisted men of
Japanese ancestry now being trained as military interrogators, trans lators and interpreters.
Notified MacArthur that JCS have directed Bmmons to expedite the de parture of the second squadron 90th Bomb. Group to Harmon, and have
advised that if Nimitz so desires, the third squadron of this group
will be sent to Harmon for temporary duty.
Directed Emmons souadron to the area, as Harmon not to send, air to move the ground echelon of one heavy bombardment
South Pacific, thus bringing the total to six in that
requested. The War Dept. concurs in Nimitz' decision
base service groups to the South Pacific.

2.

3.

U,

5.

- 2

6.

Notified Enimons of the rescission of the requirement as to minimum

heavy bomber strength to be held in Hawaii, providing Nimitz desires
to dispatch the remainder of the 90th Heavy Bombardment Group to the
South Pacific.
Requested that Emmons expedite the departure by air to the South
Pacific of the minimum ground service personnel for h-2lv aircraft.

7.

Notified Emmons that in view of the shortage of personnel in his

department, cadres will not be required of him until 1943 Informed
him of the tentative November shipment schedule for fillers.

SECTION III.

PLANS

Ko approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

n _

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL. STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 27, 1?1|2

To:

Secretary of lAJar Chief of Staff\)f

Deputy Chief ofU
Commanding General,^-

)
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

Army Air Forces

Commanding General,,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff, (TU<

-2
SECTION I. 1. 2. (Return to OPD)
MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN
A Focke KRilf Condor was reported over Iceland, October 26
Operations report October 2l\. Our forces continue their
advance towards Kokoda against strong enemy resistance.
Our mopping-up expedition on Goodenough Island was en countering effective resistance.
Four B-17's attacked shipping in Rabaul harbor; a direct
hit set afire a large tanker or seaplane tender. Three
B-2's attacking the airfield at Lae destroyed two
Japane'se bombers, damaged two, and silenced an anti aircraft position. The entire Japanese naval force,
except three destroyers, left the Buin-Faisi area during
the night of October 2l.
3. From MacArthur: Requests authority to activate Hq, Troop Carrier Group.
Also requests gliders and operating personnel for this
group plus the group to be provided in January.
There are sufficient stocks in New Caledonia to re-equip
the infantry from the Coolidge; the supplies are being
forwarded to Espiritu Santo by boat.
The situation in the South Pacific does not necessitate
the immediate dispatch of additional heavy bombardment
units from the mainland. Seven B-17's of the 19th
Group, east-bound for Hawaii, are being hold at Fiji
during this emergency on Halsey's orders. (Emmons con curs) .
Movement from Auckland to New Caledonia of the i;3d
Division and the New Zealand force is being expedited;
advance elements should arrive about November 6.

fity't

From Bonesteel; From MacArthurt

1;. From Harmon:

- 1

<\0

5m From Bisselli

Submits a detailed report on the Japanese attacks on the

ferry route. In the October 25 attack five transports
were destroyed on the ground and four damaged; six fighters
were destroyed and seven damaged. The damage to the air
fields was quickly repaired. Two P-^O's were damaged
in the attacks on October 26 in which an enemy recon naissance airplane was shot down.
Twelve B-25's supported by nine P-40's successfully
attacked docks, shipping and buildings in Hongkong, Oct ober 25. Ten enemy fighters were shot down, with five
probable. One of our bcrnbers is missing and one fighter
was shot down in friendly territory. Shortly after mid night October 25-26, six 3-25's bombed the power station
at Hongkong.
On October 25 six P-/fO's from Kunning intercepted an
enemy force of twenty dive bombers and Zero fighters
thirty miles north of Mengtsz. Three enemy planes vrere
shot down and four others were probably destroyed with out loss to our forces. The Japanese abandoned the raid.
Three B-25's attacked an airdrome at Canton October 26,
causing many fires and heavy explosions, .all our air craft returned safely.

SECTION II. 1.

OTHER ACTION TAICEN

Informed the canmanders of defense, base and overseas commands of the

quantity production of gliders, requesting their needs concurrent with
any troop carrier units assigned to their commands.
Replied to Stilwell that a fourth ferrying squadron cannot be furnished
at this time.
Implied to Stilwell and Bissell that replacements Tor the transports
lost at Dinjan cannot be made at present. Transports cannot be returned
from the Middle East before January.
Informed otilwell that 25 officers and 55 EM for Ramgarh will leave by
air beginning Nov. 1, and that the officers for the 30-Division training
group will leave by boat in late November,

2. 3.

4.

5. Asked Harmon for details of his arrangements for the pay and equipment
of Fighting French or native colonial French forces in his theater. Ex plained the agreement whereby payment and equipment of native militia
is a function of the French authorities.

- 2

*))

!.->

6.

Informed Harmon of the action being taken to expedite the replacement

of the equipment lest on the Coolidge. Inquires as to his proposed em ployment of the 3?th and America! Divisions.
Notified Harmon of approval of New Caledonia as the location for the
13th Air Depot"~Group.
PLANS

7.

SECTION III.

No action reported by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

-3

f\

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700,

October 28, 194-2.

To: Secretery of War Chief of* Staffjh\

Deputy Chief of(S Commanding Genera Army Air Forces Commanding General Services of Supply Assistant Chief of G-2 (Return to OPD)

TURN BY COMMISSIONED MESSENGER

SECTION I.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AlHD ACTION TAKEN

Several hostile airplanes were reported over Iceland
October 27, including two Jd-88's fired upon by anti-.
aircraft installations and intercepted unsuccessfully!
by p-39's.
U.S. fighter and bomber aircraft actively supported
operations on the desert, October 26. Thirty-one of our
heavy bombers attacked a convoy near Tobi-uk scoring two
direct hits on t. 5000-ton t&nker which wss lrter seen
burning from stein to stern. Four of the hostile fighters
attempting to intercept this mission were r.robsbly
destroyed. All our aircraft returned safely. Other
B-25's bombed enemy tanks, motor transport and tent areas-
Six enemy fighters were shot down on these missions.
Replies that he hes no objection to Chinese-American
officers for the Ramgarh project if the;/" are oualified.
(1) Operations report October 25: Eight B-17's attacked Rabaul before daylight, sinking a gun boat and a 5,000 ton ship, setting" on fire one medium cargo vessel and damaging another. Installation? ashore were also damaged. Other bombers raided Kavieng, Koepsng, anc. the enemy lines of communication from Kokoda to the northeest. Carvin and Port Moresby were raided by the Japanese; no
dam&ge w&s sustained at either rsl&ce.
(2) Operations report October 26: The situation in the
Kokoda area rras generally unchanged, with enemy positions
being subjected to effective mortar i'ire. Allied oir crait, while continuing to harass the enemy's lines of

From rionesteel:

2.

From Llaxwell:

From Stilwell:
A. trom Mac/Arthur;

FWICTOKY

1 BUY 19 UNITED
1 STATES
HAVINOS

in M

^r

iWBoNDS 3KR AND J M \ STAMPS

- 1

cs"

commurdcation in Ler Guinef, mode an effective attack

on the airfield et Lae. On Timor, the airfield at
Koepang and the town of Dilli were also attacked.
Darwin End Milne Bay were subjected to air raids which
caused only minor damage.
Air reconnaissance of the Buin-Faisi area disclosed tliFt
the enemy naval force which departed October 24, re turned October 26, bringing the totcl there to two
heavy cruisers, one light cruiser, seven destroyers,
three probable seaplane tenders, and "eleven miscellaneous
cargo ships.
5. *rom MacArthur Report? receipt of e message from Halgey inquiring if
additional B-24fs can be operated from S7JPA so as to
augment the sustained striking effort against Japanese
shipping in the Faisi-Buin-Tonolei area, to v/hich
Mac Arthur has replied that any available B-2A'*s can be
utilized to advantage on night missions from airdromes
in his area.
Air operations October 24.: One hostile airplane en countered northeast of Mtlaita (ME of Guadalcanal) was
shot down in flames. Air reconnaissances from Espiritu
Santo were continued.
Eight B-24's, starting the movement of the second part
of the 90th Group, took off for the South Pacific
October 26.

From Harmon:

7.

From Emmons:

SECTION II.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Informed G-2, CG, AAF and CG, SOS that Brazil has approved the first
seven recommendations of the Joint Brazil-United States Defense Commis sion concerning: (a) Authority to station U.S. Military Police in
Northeast Brazil; (b) Centralization of Brazilian purchasing agencies
in Washington and coordination of requisitions for lend-lease war
materials and shipping priorities by the Commission; and (c) Authority
permitting U.S. instructor personnel and weapons to enter Northeast
Brazil for the defense of airbases.
Replied to Kenney that the insufficient amounts of air force munitions
on hand at the present time preclude raising the supply level in the
Southwest Pacific from five months to eight months.
Notified Harmon of War Department approval of his selection of Col.
Everest as the Army Air officer on Halsey's staff.
- 2

511

SECTION III. 1.

PLANS

JCS instructed the secretaries to prepare a memorandum for the President

indicating that the decision on JCS 121, 12l/l and 121/2 "Steel Allocation
for Titerchant Shipbuilding" should be withheld Dendinp; results of the study
being made by JCS.
JCS noted the memorandum presented by representatives of the British
Chiefs of Staff and directed the secretaries to furnish information con tained in CCS 118/1 "US - British Shipbuilding Programs" to the Vice
Chief of ftaval Operations.
JCS agreed to recommend to CCS that the proposed mission to Syria be
approved and that the CCS be informed of the President's approval of
this project (JCS 88, 88/1, and 88/2 "Plan for Syria").
JCS referred the proposal of the British Chiefs of Staff and the recom mendation of the JIC on JCS 138 "Security of Ciphers" to the JOB for
study and recommendation.
JCS considered JCS 136, CCS 103/12 and CCS 103/13 concerning special
operations.
JCS directed that the proposed letter to Mr. Curtin from the President
on JCS 135, 135/1 "Strength of Armed forces in Australia" be revised,
the letter to be forwarded to the President for approval and signature.
JCS discussed JCS 97/5 "Deployment of US Air Forces in the Pacific
Theater", and directed that JCS 97, 97/1, 97/2, and 97/3 be remover' from
the pgenda.
JCS deferred actions on the proposals contained in JCS 133 "Reconstitution
of Joint US Strategic Committee".

2.

L.

5.

6.

7.

8.

THOS. T. HANDY,<
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 29,

To: Secretary of

Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief ^
Cora^snding General
j&rmy Air Forces Commanding General

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

Service:- of ty
Assistant Chief of Staff

G-2 SECTION I. (Return to OPD)

MESSAGES RECEIVED AKD /CTION TAKEN
A thorough aerial reconnaissance was made of the
Aleutians west of Adak, October 27; no unusual eneiry
activity was disclosed.
Replies that full allotment of 39 troop glidere should
be furnished as equipment for any troop carrier units
assigned his are^a.
On October 27 our B-25's supported the Allied offensive
in the Middle East, bombing enemy motor transport,
troop and tank concentrations, and landing grounds in
the forward areas; the dock area at Llatruh war. also
hit. Three German and four Italian fighters w^re
destroyed and probably four other enemy fighter craft.
We lost one bomber.
Six B-24.'s from Kunming bombed Myitkyina October 27.
All of our bombers landed safely at Calcutta.
About 55 Japanese bombers and fighters again attacked
the ferry route airfields in Assam, October 28. One
enemy bomber and a fighter were destroyed without loss
of US aircraft; operation of transports was not impaired,
Fighter reinforcements have arrived at the Assam air dromes.
From ife-cArtbur: Operations report for October 27. There was no material
change in the situation in New Guinea. Six Australian
aircraft, in attacks at Lae, set fire to three barges,
eilenced antiaircraft positions and destroyed a fuel
dump.

From Butler:

2.

From Fitzgerald:

From Brereton:

From Bissell: Fron Bis sell:

- 1

The enemy again raided Darwin, causing minor damage to

power lines.
MacArthur reported in detail the enemy naval dispositions
reconnoitered by his aircraft.
7. From MacArthur: Requests replacener.tr for eight 155 n n guns which he has
u authorized Harmon to remove from the SS West Cussetta to
replace an equal number lost on the USAT Coolidge.
Requests two airborne engineer battalions and other units
for construction and maintenance of airfields in present
and proposed operations.
Reports the location of enemy n?val concentrations in the
South Pacific disclosed by reconnaissances flov/n October
25. B-17's on these missions shot dov/n two enemy nlanes.
Twelve B-17's attacked an enemy naval task force north east of the southern Solomon Islands; a heavy cruiser was
set efire.
10. From Harmon:. Replying to a query as to his plans, states th:-t his
objective is to reinforce Espiritu Santo and New Cale donia as quickly as possible so th&t the Americal Divi sion can be used to reinforce the Marine Division on
Guadalcanal.
Considers th&t the Fiji garrison is inadequate in vier
of its vital position on the L. of C.
Hflrmori plans to have a regimental combet team of the Z.3rd
Division at Espiritu Sf.nto; the remainder of that Divi sion &.na the NZ Force will go to Nev; Caledonia. The 37th
and another Division ere desired for Fiji; elements of
the 37th ctn later be employed as reinforcements for
other areas.

8.

From MacArthur:

9.

From Harmon;

SECTION II.
1.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Directed CG, SOS to instruct Drum as to the measures to be used when union
labor refuses to work in conjunction with soldier lr.bor on military in stallations, recent instances of such difficulties having been reported.
(G-l) replied to Eisenhower that the War Dept. intenas neither to take ec tion at present under Paragraph 153, "Rules of Lend Warfare", nor to allow
enemy prisoners parole privileges. Our soldiers, if captured, are not to
give their parole.

2.

3.

Replied to Stilwell that, pending conclusion of Treasury anu V.ar kept,

efforts to solve his exchange problems, he is authorised to continue pay ments in US dollars where practicable.
Notified Mac Arthur to nrdntin eight P-3' s ready for immediate movement
to Guadalcanal upon call of Harmon; informed Harmon.
Asked Harmon for his craft in conjunction facilities available Dept. bs informed as views as to the proper utilization of his Army Kir with those of the Navy, having regard to the
for their employment; qlso re::ueste<;. that the V,ar
to his recommendations to Halgey on these matters.

U-

5.

6.

In order to reduce the civilian population and alleviate the labor

shortage on the mainland, directed "Emmons so to plan his construction
that engineer civilian labor may be progressively released and sent
home, without commitment of additional engineer troops.

SECTION III.

FLAMS

too approved action by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.

- 3

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

1700, October 30, 19/+2.

To: Secretary of YI'S
Chief of S t a f V ^ U A
Deputy Chief af\st,
Conntt-nding General Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff,
G-2 (Return to
SECTION I. From Bonesteel;

IN TURN bY COMMISSIONED

LIESSB^GEF

rES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

An unidentified airplane was reported over Iceland
October 29.
(1) US heavy bombers, air,xtched on October 28 to
destroy a southbound Axis tinker, failed to loc- te this
target but attacked three Italian cruisers ir. V.r.v rino
Bay, Greece, hitting one.
(?)TCnerr/"ground target? in the northern sector, land ing ground? and connunicfitior; line? beyond ..atruh "ore
attacked by Allied p,r Forces in Egypt, October 29.
Our heavy bombers attacked concentrations of enenv sir-
craft on the airfields in Crete, late October <^\ pre liminary reports indicate that thic mission v?s succerpful

From i.I&xv^ell:

Fro Stilvrell;

All major difficulties et Ramgarh have b r o n ironed out.

Relations with the Chinese . . e highly saticfactoryj
.r training is excellent and instructors c r ; troop:; s r .c . e
enthusiastic n r i v/orkinr h?.rd. Lo Cho Lin^ has ex ,c plainea the situation to ttie entire connand, and com plete obedience and cooperation have been both promised
and ordered.
Twelve B - 2 4 ' L operating from Calcutta and attempting to
bomb dock: prd warehouses at Rangoon V.T^O un?bl- to ful fill their adssionr because of weather. Three bobbed
the torn of A-kyab vith unknown results.
Operations sumnary, October 28. The crourr forces in the- Oven Stanley are? are steadily forcing the enemy back towards Alois ( miles couth of Kokoda), although / precipitous country and heavy rainfall hamper operations.

From Bissell;

From MacArthur: CTOFY BUY

,-5*

Enemy reinforcements are reported to be moving in

from further east.
Allied aircraft bombed the Buka airdrome, burning one
boi.ibcr and destroying an ammunition dump. Nine B-17's,
in a dawn attack on shipping at Rabsul, report hits
which set one vessel on fire and caused en exoiosion
on an ene'ny warship.
6. From MacArthur:
Expects to move the advanced echelon of his headquarters
to Port Moresby, November 4.. Direct radio communication
with San Francisco for high priority messages will be
established.
Adds to operations report for October 25. Four separ ate attacks were n r d by dive bombers and P-39's on an
i.e enemy naval force of one light and one heavy cruiser
and four destroyers just north of Guadalcanal. Direct
hits were scored on the heavy cruiser, with one 1000-lb.
bomb and one 500-lb. bomb; many near misses were claimed
on both cruisers.
Information to date shows one officer, three EM end two
crew members were lost on the USAT Coolidge.
Seven B-17's conducted routine reconnaissance missions
from Espiritu Santo, October 27.
S. From Eramons:
(1) Requests authority to activate two additional
fighter squadrons for assignment to the 318th Fighter
Group to replace the two squadrons transferred to the
South Pacific by War Department directive. Sufficient
airplanes and cadre personnel are available locally.
(2) The flight and maintenance crews of the 12th Fighter
Squadron with 18 P-39's from Christmas Island are now
at Palmyra waiting to board the ships carrying the
ground echelon and 25 P-40's of the 44th Squadron to
the South Pacific.
(3) The ground echelon of the 31st Bombardment Squadron
will be dispatched to Fiji as soon as transportation is
available. _Emmons proposes to move the remainder of
the 5th Bombardment Group, (less 394-th Squadron) to
the South Pacific, since three of the four tactical
souedrons will be there.

7.

From Harmon:

SECTION II.
1 Notified Andrews of War Dept. intention to send 330th Engr. Regt. to
Trinidad ibo^t~December 1 in order to hasten completion of civilian
construction contracts, and requested his views.
- 2

2.

Notified Eisenhower end Bon^steel that CG, AAF, has been directed to
transfer the 50th Tighter Squadron, less personnel and equipment, from
UK to Iceland.
Requested rtacArthur*s views on the effectiveness of aerial raining opera tions in Japanese-held harbors within the range of his bombers both zc
to actual destructiveness t;nd nuisance value; inquired if eny mining
operations hpd been underttken as yet.
Informed Mac Arthur that action is being te.ken on bis request for authority
to activate a troop carrier group headquarters. Shipment of glicierf 1 L
expected to begin in November; glider personnel will move by air in li'te
December.
Approved the removal oi" eight 155 nun guns by Harmon from the SS "Jest
Cussettt, requesting that he advise Operations Division of the number of
guns tr.d other equipment teken.
Advised Harmon of the tentative selection of Col. E. D. Patrick, Inf., &s
a Staff officer on Halsey' s staff, pending Harmon' E recomirendatior or
concurrence.
Advised Emmons of the contemplated assignment of Col. W. J. Morressey, Inf.,
to the staff of Ninitz., and requested his comments or ccricurrence.
Advised Emmons Vrar Department desires that Gen. I.ynd be defirrated &s
Avmr PT Officer or Nimitz' staff, end informed him thnt, subject to
Emmons' concurrence, Gen. S. M. Connell v/oulci be rent tc the Hawaiian
Department as a replacement.

3.

4..

5.

6.

7.

8.

SECTION III.

PLANS

No action reported by JCS or CCS.

THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff

WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION

WASHINGTON

17.00, October 31, 1942.

To: Secretary of
Chief of Stz
Deputy Chief o
CGmmanding Gener Army Air Force
Comm&nding Gener
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Stafft
G-2 (Return to OPD)

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

SECTION I.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Erereton: B-25's, supporting the British Eighth Array, dropped

2U tons of bombs on enemy tanks, motor vehicles and
positions October 28. Direct hits, highly effective,
were observed on all targets. On October 29, 12 tons
of bombs were dropped. Two of our bombers, hit by
antiaircraft fire, e n sh-landed behind our own lines.
P-4.0-F's flew escort and fighter s^eep missions both
days; the enemy generally refused combat.
2. From Bissell; four B-25's, escorted by seven P-^O's, operating from
Kunming, bombed Lashio October 28. Direct hits were
scored on en antiaircraft battery, a small hangar, and
the dispersal area.
On October 29, six B-25's, escorted by six P-40's, re peated the operation successfully. Heavy antiaircraft
fire was encountered both days.
3. From MacArthur: Operations summary for October 29. Our ground forces,
in a bayonet charge against an enemy strong point
manned by 100 men, killed 20 Japanese and took 30
prisoners. Our advance continues.
Nine B-17!s struck enemy shippim in the Buin-Faisi
area in a night attack and scored near misses on a
heavy cruiser, another large warship, and two uniden tified vessels; a large exnlosion on a fifth vessel
followed the bombing. Reconnaissance flights detected
the presence of a heavy naval force in- the Buin-Faisi
area.
Port Moresby was raided without damage.

- 1

U-

From Mac Arthur;

Forwards a copy of a request from the Australian Chief

Publicity" Censor to the Australian Government suggesting
that it take up with our Government the matter of recip rocal censorship provisions. This action was prompted
by American Dress and radio comments criticizing
Australia's War Effort.

SECTION II. 1.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Informed G-l that steps will be taken to delete from overseas troop move ment orders the prohibition against taking cameras.
Authorised Andrews to organize the Fort Read and dock site station comple
ments and a general depot in Trinidad.
Informed Bradley of the following status of airplanes intended for the
USSR in Alaska, for the week ending October 30:
B-2 5's 9 2 16 A-20's 22
21
7 P-^O's P-39's

2.

3.

Delivered to Fairbanks En route in Canada En route in U. S.

20

60

4 5 Russian crews arrived during the week.

. U- Informed Fitzgerald that his presence in Accra is desired without delay
to receive an important visitor.
Replied to Harmon that present means preclude the furnishing of an addi tional division for Fiji.
Pointed out that the equivalent of two Marine divisions is in the South
Pacific, available for defense even while reequipping and reorgenizdng,
and that a resumption of the offensive will reduce the size of the
defense force needed in New Caledonia. liecommended that he coorcinEte
this matter with Halsey.

5.

ST.CTION III. 1. 2. 3. A.

PLANS

CCS deferred consideration of CCS 107/2, 107/3, "Plan for Syria",

CCS discussed CCS 103/12, 103/13, 103/lA, concerning special operations.
CCS noted CCS 118/1, "US-British Shipbuilding Programs".
Sir John Dill reported on the battle- in Egypt, pointing out that a clow
advance through a deep defensive position had been anticipated.
- 2

5. Gen. Marshall reported on activities in the Asiatic Theater, particularly

Stilwell's negotiations with respect to the Remgarh project.
6. Adm. Leahy reported upon additional shipping to be me.de available in the
Pacific. Gen. Marshall hoped that the Alcan Highway, now open, would
work to reduce these requirements.

PHOS. T. HAND^ "7

Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.