Intel report, 10/14/44

CLASSIFIED

A-2 REPORTING
SECTION 92ND C.W.

486TH BOMBARDMENT GROUP (H)

14/10/44. S-2

OPERATIONAL INTELLIGENCE REPORT, 486TH BOMBARDMENT GROUP (H), MISSION OF 14th OCTOBER 1944.

TARGET: COLOGNE, GERMANY

1. LEAFLETS.
none.

2. BOMBING RESULTS.
Results unobserved, Bombs were dropped thru ten-tenths undercast on PFF.

3. ENEMY FIGHTERS.
none.

4.   FLAK.
       A. Moderate inaccurate tracking type flak was encountered in the target area.
       B. Light inaccurate tracking flak was encountered at 5005N-0734E.

5. WEATHER
Weather did effect the mission. 10/10 undercast at the primary target occasioned the bombing of the secondary target.

6.   OBSERVATIONS.
        A. At 1215 hours, 5010N-0742E. (23,000 feet) 25 to 30 barges were concentrated on the Rhine River.
        B. At 1230 hours. 5000N-0734E (21,000 feet) an U/I B-17 flew by the side of "C" squadron. Red triangle on tail with the letter "S" inside. A yellow stripe was observed running diagonal across the tail. A/C fired on the plane in the diamond position of "C" squadron, fire was returned by the plane, but no hits were observed. Another A/C of "C" called for fighters. Five escorting fighters responded and herded the B-17 from the formation.

7.   OTHER INFORMATION.
        A. A/C number 856 (missing aircraft) was last seen near the R.P. well escorted by P-51's. Message received on V.H.F. was to the effect that friendly territory could be reached. At 1241 hours an air sea rescue bearing of 128 was received at BIRCHEN NEWTON.
        B. A/C number 029 (missing aircraft) was last seen at 1135 hours, 5025N-0526E, A/C was still on course but was dragging back with number four engine feathered.

OPERATIONS OFFICER