Twenty-seven B-24’s took off at 0629 to 0644 hours to bomb the Latisana RR Bridge. None returned early. Twenty-seven dropped 66 tons of 1,000-lb (.1 and non-delay fuses) GP bombs on target at 1011 hours from 21,000 to 22,000 feet, and jettisoned 1-1/2 tons in the Adriatic because of hang-ups. Twenty-seven returned to base at 1236 hours. None lost. None missing. None at friendly fields.

Rendezvoused with other groups of the Wing over San Vito at 7,000 feet at 0738 Baker. From San Vito went off course to allow 98th Group which was late at rendezvous to go ahead of this Group in accordance with briefed formation, and was 30 miles right of course at key point (4305N – 1528E). Made a corrected heading to the turn point (4500N – 1320E), thence to the IP (4537N – 1315E), to target on heading of 315° True. Rallied sharp left to turn point (4500N – 1320E), thence to base.

Escort of P-47’s rendezvoused at 0924 hours at 18,000 feet at 4420N – 1400E, provided good penetration, target and withdrawal cover. Left the formation at 1058 Baker at 4300N – 1400E.

No radio interference was experienced.

Visual observation claimed the target to be well hit in an excellent pattern with smoke rising to 5,000 feet, and at least 4 to 5 direct hits on the bridge itself including 1 or 2 in the center of it. A few hits reported in the town areas.

Photo coverage showed at least 3 direct hits on the bridge itself, 3 hits on its western and 2 hits on its eastern approaches, the railroad line cut by 3 hits 500 feet west of the target and by other hits 1,500 feet northeast of the target. There was 1 direct hit on the western approach to the road bridge and the road to Mestre was cut 4 times at 12/NO on target chart. Remainder of plotted hits were on river banks and in residential and business district near the target.

No enemy fighters were seen or encountered, although 4 unidentified black A/C were seen at 4515N – 1300E at 1022 Baker at 21,000 feet by two observers. One observer claimed they were firing rocket shells though not at this Group.

No flak experienced.

No losses. No damage. No casualties.

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