WWII AAF Operations Nov 1942

DIARY
OPERATIONS DIVISION
ORIGINALS OF PHOTOSTATIC COPIES
(DIRECT)
1 Noventoer 1942 to 31 December 1948
DECLASSIFIED by DOD Executive
Directory 5200.9 on 27 Sept 1958.
WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL. STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
To:
Secretary of War, Chief of Staff Deputy Chief of Si Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General^ Services of Supply (^ Assistant Chief of St G-2 (Return to OPD)
1700, November 1> 1942
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.
MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Several unidentified aircraft were reported over Ice land October 30,
Requests that the first two squadrons of the 315th
Troop Carrier Group be shipped to his theater less
their complement of gliders and glider pilots, all
troop carrier units thereafter to be shipped coiiw
plete. with gliders and glider pilots
American bombers assisted Allied ground operations on
October 30 by attacks on enemy landing fields.
Twelve B-2A's attacked Maleme Airport, Crete, on the
night of October 30-31; results were not observed.
No aircraft were lost.
From Bonesteel:
From Eisenhower:
From Maxwell:
From Bissell:
(1) Six P-40!s used as fighter-bombers, and escorted

by 11 P-4.0fs, attacked shipping in Kowloon Harbor,
October 28. Results have not been reported.
(2) Two P-Ô's reconnoitered Lashio, Kutkai, Loiwing,
and Myitkyina, October 30. One P-AO was missing after
this action.
5.
From MacArthur:
Operations summary, October 30. Allied troops occu pied Alola, in the Owen Stanley Range.
US and Australian bombers, continuing support of the
general Solomons action, participated in three coor dinated attacks on shipping in the Buin-Faisi area
before dawn. The Australian bombers scored a probable
hit on a cruiser; our B-17fs scored direct hits on a
large warship, possible hits on a destroyer, near
- 1
misses on a light cruiser and a possible aircraft

carrier, and set an unidentified vessel ablaze.
aircraft returned safely.
From MacArthur: Replies that he can use up to twenty-six enlisted
men of Japanese ancestry, at lenst one-half to be
qualified as translators.
Replies that he hes stressed to COMSOPAC tne neces sity for heavy bomber facilities at Guadalcanal and
the reduction in the use of B-17's on reconnaissance
missions. Believes that all air forces should be
utilized as far forward as practicable, exerting the
maximum pressure on the enemy.
of the 90th Bombardment Group are being re leased to MacArthur.
SECTION II. OTHER ACTION TAKEN
From Harmon:
1. Replied to MacArthur that a night fighter squadron is not available for

his theater at the present time.
2. 3. Informed Emmons that his plan to move the remainder of the 5th Bombard ment Group, (less 394th Squadron) to the South Pacific, is approved.
Suggested to Emmons that he confer with Nimitz as to the destination of
the remaining air echelon of the 90th Bombardment Group. Requested
that War Dept., Harmon and Kenney be informed of his decision and the
estimated date of departure.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No approved action by JCS or CCS
4
T. HANDY,
THOS.
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff,
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION WASHINGTON
1700, November 2, 1942

To: Secretary of
Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of
Commanding Gener Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply j *\
Assistant Chief of Staff
G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TURK BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.
MESSAGES RECEIVED AflD ACTION TAKEN
From Castner (Alaska): Attu, Agattu, and Kiska were reconnoitered from
the air on October 31 Bombers were alerted for the
reappearance of the Japanese naval forces reported on
October 30.
From Jones (Iceland): Enemy aircraft were reported over Iceland again on
October 31. An attempt to intercept one of them was
unsuccessful.
From Andrews: Proposed to operate Air Warning Service installations at
Antigua, Surinam and St. Lucia with skeleton crews, in
view of the reduced troop basis for the Caribbean Defense
Command.
Operations report for October 31. The Allied advance in
the Owen Stanley Range continues, our aircraft harassing
the enemy's line of communications there,
A pre-dawn attack by nine B-17!s on shipping in the Buin-
Faisi area resulted in two hits on an enemy cruiser, which
exploded, one hit on a merchant vessel, and near misses
on another cruiser. Concurrently a similar force attacked
Rabaul, setting fire to at least one vessel,
A B-17 over Rabaul probably destroyed two out of eleven
intercepting Zeros. One of our B-25fs is missing.
Reconnaissances revealed naval concentration of 47 ships
in the Buin-Faisi area and 35 at Rabaul.
An Allied patrol inflicted 57 casualties on an enemy force
on Timor.
- 1
2.
3.
From MacArthur
QClfTD DHl
5.
From Harmon:
Recommends, with Halsey*s concurrence, that Lincoln be

assigned as C. G. in New Caledonia prior to Patch's
departure with his division for Guadalcanal, and that
Hester be designated, upon arrival, as C. G. of all
mobile forces in New Caledonia, under Lincoln.
The movement of the air echelon 90th Bombardment Group
from Hawaii with minimum ground service personnel was
comuleted on November 1.
6.
From Zmmons:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER /CTION TAKEN
Informed Stilvrell of Wavell's report to British Chiefs of Staff relative

to his recent conferences with Stilwell.
PLANS
SECTION III.
No approved action by JCS or CCS.
DHOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Assistant Chief of Staff.
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 3, 1942.

ToI Secretary of War
Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of
Commanding Army Aij* Forces Commanding Genera
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff,1
G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I.
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER
1. From Bonesteel; A Dornier airplane was observed over Seydisfjordur,

Iceland, November 1.
2, From Brereton; (1) P-40-F's flew bomber escort and fighter-bomber
missions October 31, and carried out successful fighter-
bomber and ground-strafing attacks. Our B-25's bombed
enemy landing grounds at Fuka and Bagush with unobserved
results. Four ME-109's were shot down. Our air forces
suffered no casualties.
(2) On November 1 our P-40-F's repeated their missions.
Eight B-24-D's attacked Maleme airdrome, Crete, obtaining
observed hits in the vicinity of the target. All our
aircraft returned.
3. From Maxwell: /Six B-17's successfully bombed the jetties at Tobruk
November 2. Our medium bombers attacked enemy tanks and
motor transports in the forward area. Our fighters
attacked enemy aircraft on their landing grounds; seven
were claimed destroyed.
Replies that a full complement of gliders should be sent
with all troop carrier units allotted to his command, to
arrive concurrently with or in advance of the airplanes.
Operations report, November 1. The Allied advance in
New Guinea continued without resistance just south of
Kokoda
Two night bombing attacks were made on shipping and an
airdrome in the Buin-Faisi area; the airdrome at Lae was
also attacked. One Zero, possibly three, was shot down.
Our forces lost one B-17 and one P-40,
- 1
4.
From Maxwellt
5. From MacArthurt
CTOTOf
Aerial reconnaissances were made of the enemy shipping and aircraft concentrations in New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago, the northern Solomons, and Timor. 6, From MacArthurj Recommends approval of an Australian Army requisition for 100 pack Howitzers (75 mm) and ammunition therefor , pro vided that established requirements and shipping priorities are not affected. This requisition is to be used to equip four Australian mountain regiments soon to be organized. Replies that eight 155 mm guns and fifty-six cases (giving numbers) were removed from the SS West Cussetta. No fire control instruments were found on the vessel.
7.
From Harmon:
SECTION II.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Replied to a query from Eisenhower that the pending bill exempting from
customs duties bona fide gifts sent to the US by overseas soldiers is
before the Senate Military Affairs Committee; action probably will be
taken this month after the elections, but final passage in time for
Christmas packages is doubtful.
2. Explained to Emmons that the purpose in placing qualified Army officer on
CINCPAC's staff is to advise him on the employment and support of all Army
forces in the Pacific and South Pacific, particularly the latter. Approved
the temporary assignment of Lynd; stated that Col. C. K. Ferrin. Irif., will
be assigned instead of Col. Morrissey.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No action reported by JCS or CCS.
Major General,
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 4 , 1942

-
To:
Secretary of War Chief of Staff'I? L M Deputy Chief of. Staff ^-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. 1.

Because of weather, the only mission flown the last
week was a low-altitude attack on a freight train in
occupied France by two US Spitfires on October 31.
USAAF medium bombers dropped 75,000 pounds of bombs on November 3, securing many hits on motor transport, tanks, airfields and dumps. Fighter bombers dropped 22,000 pounds of bombs on all types of missions. Two (probably three) enemy fighters were destroyed. In the Tobruk attack of Nobember 2, two medium merchant
vessels were hit and the oil supply set on fire by bur
bombers.
Reports of the battle indicate that the enemy forward
elements are thinning out and British armored patrols
breaking through.
From Spaatz:
2 .
From Ivlaxwell
3.
From MacArthur;
Operations report for November 2. Kokoda was occupied

by Allied forces, and patrols on the right flank of the
Allied advance are moving on Ilimor.
Our bombers made a series of attacks on an enemy convoy
off Gasmata (New Britain) apparently attempting to land
reinforcements in New Guinea. One large transport was
set afire, another probably damaged, and five (probably
six) enemy fighters were destroyed. No landing was
accomplished. Two of our aircraft crashed upon return ing. Allied air attacks were made on Dilli and
Babonaro (Timor).
-1
m i
Allied reconnaissances indicated that the shipping in the

Buin-Faisi area was reduced to 19 vessels.
From Harmon:
On November 1, 19 B-17's dropped 379 100-lb. bombs on
the enemy supply and troop concentration area near the
beach at Kokumbona (Guadalcanal Island). (This was,
in effect, the preparation fire for a successful attack
by the 5th Marines.)
Considers it inadvisable to plan on the availability
of a Marine division in New Caledonia during its
reorganization since New Zealand has better facilities
and is better suited for the purpose ttfan New Caledonia
or Fiji.
An additional division at Fiji would be immobilized
for a time, but would furnish reasonable security for
the most important strategic position in the South
Pacific. The need for additional security at this
base is continuous until marked offensive success
warrants the reduction of the garrison. The whole
effort in the South and Southwest Pacific would be
lost with the loss of Fiji.
Harmon recapitulates his operations plan.
6. From Harmon:
Replies that one squadron of the 19th Bombardment Group
was held at Fiji temporarily and released October 31
to proceed (to Hawaii) in accordance with original
orders. No squadrons of the 90th Bombardment Group
have been held in the South Pacific.
Requests that approximately 20 companies of service
troops and an Engineer regiment, general service, be
sent to New Zealand, New Caledonia and Fiji to organize
a Service Command; only white troops are desired for
New Zealand.
Replies that the last four B-24fs of the 90th Group
left Hawaii November 1. Twenty-three of these airplanes
have already arrived in Australia.
5. From Harmon:
7,
From Lincoln:
8.
From Eraraons:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed MacArthur of the items removed from the SS Cussetta by Harmon.

Replacements will leave for the Southwest Pacific Area on the next
available boat.
- 2
SECTION III. 1.
PLANS
JCS noted State Dept. approval of British recommendations with regard

to CCS 107, "Plan for Syria" and instructed the Secretaries to prepare
a directive to the officer selected as the head of the proposed mission
to Syria.
JCS returned JCS 143, "Allocation of Twenty Additional Ships for Use
in the Southwest Pacific" to the Joint Planners for further study.
JCS agreed to recommend to CCS a system for making new allocations
of landing craft (JCS 145, "Transportation of Landing Craft - Recommended
New Allocations").
JCS agreed with regard to JCS 144, "Combined Radio Telegraph Procedure"
to recommend acceptance of a compromise procedure evolved by a committee
of the Combined Communications Board, to be placed in effect by January 1,
1943.
JCS considered JCS 139, "Joint American-British Plan for Psychological
TTarfare for Italy*, JCS 139/1, "Implementation of Psychological Warfare
Plans11, and CCS 104/3> "Plan for Retaking Burma".
JCS agreed to establish a Joint Orientation Committee, composed of a Navy
officer, an Army officer, and an officer of the AAF, which will advise the
JCS on our basic strategic policy. (JCS 133, "Reconstitution of the Joint
US Strategic Committee")
JCS disapproved the assignment of 36 "Photographic Airplanes for the
South Pacific" (JCS 140, 140/1).
2. 3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
'THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General, /
-3
WAR DEPARTMENT
WAR DEPARTMENT GENERAL STAFF
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 5, 1942,
To:
Secretary of War
Chief of Staff AMv
Deputy Chief of Bt
Commanding General^
Army Air Forces,
Commanding General
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff}h
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1. 2.

Several unidentified aircraft were reported over
Iceland, November 3.
USAAF bombed Benghazi Harbor, November 4> scoring hits
on shipping, motor transport, and personnel, and
accounting for the destruction of three enemy airplanes.
Reiterates the need for the immediate dispatch of
replacement transport aircraft to his theater. Unless
replacements and spare parts arrive it will be
increasingly difficult to sustain air operations from
China.
Operations report, November 3. The Allied advance
was continuing beyond Kokoda. Two heavy air attacks
were made on Dilli (Timor) and one on shipping in
Tonolei Harbor (Solomons). At least one Japanese
fighter was shot down, with the loss of one US medium
bomber.
Air reconnaissances of Buka Passage (Solomons) and of
the Gasmata (New Britain) area revealed some enemy
shipping, and confirmed the heavy damage inflicted on
a Japanese transport the previous day.
From Bonesteel: From Maxwell;
3.
From Stilwell;
From Mac Arthur;
5. From Harmon;
Operations summaries for November 3 and 4 consist of

sightings of enemy naval forces by aerial reconnaissances,
and report of the destruction of two Japanese anti aircraft guns on Guadalcanal by our pursuit aircraft.
-1
C
\
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Directed SOS to prepare a draft of the revised War Department policy on

smoke-screening of back areas in the continental US, including the defi nition of the smoke-screen responsibility of the Office of Civilian Defense
as established verbally between Mr. McCloy, Dean Landis, and Colonel
Rote, SOS.
Directed the Adjutant General to inform Maxwell and Fitzgerald of the
procedure to follow in coordinating Air Transport Command construction in
their respective areas, to avoid a recurrence of misunderstandings which
have arisen.
Informed Eisenhower of the status of troop shipments requested for November
and December together with a list of units available for shipment in late
December.
(AAF) notified Harmon that seven B-17-E's, of the 19th Bombardment Group,
are assigned to his command as replacements and directed that he arrange
for the movement of their crews from New Caledonia to Hawaii by air.
Replied to MacArthur that his airborne Engineers shoula reach him in
February and that other Engineer troops are being sent as rapidly as
possible. Inquired if he wished to take colored Engineer battalions,
aviation, available in March, in exchange for the general service Engineer
regiment scheduled for February shipment.
PLANS
2.
3.
U*
5.
SECTION III.
THOS. T. HANDY
Major General /
-2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 6,"

To: Secretary of War
Chief of St
DeDuty Chief of StN
Commanding Genera! Army Air Forces, Cominanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff,N
G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TURN BY COXIISSIONED
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1. 2.
MESSAGE? RECEIVED ANP ACTION TAKEN

An unidentified airplane was sighted over Iceland,
November 5
Air' Chief Marshal Tedder congratulated the First
Provisional Group on its bombing of Tobruk on November
2; this was valuable collaboration at a critical -moment.
Operations report for November U* Our forces, with the
support of light bombardment aircraft, dislodged the
Japanese at Pirivi ( miles east of Kokoda) and con ^ tinued to advance on Oivi. Contact has been pained
between the 128th US Infantry on the north coast of
New Guinea and the 126th US Infantry, which is crossing
the Owen Stanley Range southeast of the Kokoda area.
On the north coast of New Guinea, Salamaua and Sanananda
were attacked by light and medium bombers and Beaufighters.
Light and medium Allied bombers also operated effectively
against Maobisse and. Aileu, on Timor.
Twenty-nine ships were sighted at Rabaul and an equal
number in the Buin-Faisi area.
From Bonesteel: From Brereton:
3.
From MacArthur:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Notified DeWitt that 30 P-39's and the personnel of the 54-th Fighter
Group now in Alaska are to be returned to the control of the AAF.
Informed Bradley of the following status of airplanes intended for
the USSR in Alaska as of November 6:
2. 1CT0RY
BUY
U N I T E D
O T A T B i
1AV1NO*
iS
AND
- 1
STAMPS
B-25 Delivered to Fairbanks En route in Canada At departure point 12 1
A-20 UU
3
P-4-0 4 11
P-39
1
12
iio departures were mrde from the US during the week except 1 transport,
These figures do not include airplanes en route, in the US, to the
departure point.
3. ARecommended to C/S that the plan for the equipment of eight French
divisions be submitted to the CCS.
Directed Stilv/ell -to arrange the diversion of one Stearman airplane
from Chinese Lend-Lease stocks as a good-will gift to the Afghanistan
Air Force.
Informed MacArthur that his additional Troop Carrier Group will be
delayed until February when the air echelon will arrive. The ground
echelon will arrive somewhat later as shipping becomes available.
Acting upon a query from Harmon, as to what information has been
officially released concerning our troops in the South Pacific, OPD
asked the Bureau of Public Relations to furnish a copy of recent press
releases on this subject. Request was also made that all future War #
Dept. press releases or concurrences concerning this area be first
coordinated with OPD.
5.
6.
SECTION III.
PLANS
HOSV T . HANDY,/
Major General,
- 2
5th
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 7, 1942.

Chief 6f Sta^l
Deputy Chief o
Commanding General; Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Siaff}
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

Fighter patrols were able to operate from the new land ing strip at Adak during breaks in the weather November 5.
A low-altitude bomber reconnaissance of Kiska was made
the same day, with negative results due to thick weather.
From Butler:
2.
From Eisenhower; Reports on the last reconnaissance of Greenland, completed

October 29* recommending that such missions be suspended
until conditions permit open navigation. Suspicious
items ere being investigated by Greenland Base Command.
From Brereton; (l) On November 5 USAAF B-25's continued to support the
advance of the British Eighth Army by attacking motor
transport. Our fighter aircraft flew bomber-escort,
fighter-bomber and fighter-patrol missions, probably
destroying one ME-109.
(2) (On November 6?) Twenty-seven B-2^-Ds dropped
125 - 1000 lb. bombs on shipping in Benghazi harbor,
scoring direct hits on the mole> three medium-sized mer chant vessels and a small tanker, end a possible direct
hit on a fourth ship. One ME-109 intercepting this
mission was shot down and another probebly destroyed.
Our B-25's bombed the retreating enemy's motor transport
which crowded the roads in his reer areas; meny direct
hits were observed. Our fighter bombers also flew
successful missions destroying two enemy fighters. One
of our fighters was lost.
From Bissell: Reports that the B-25's scheduled for the 10th Air Force
have not arrived, and requests information as to their
whereabouts.
3.
-I
5-
F1*001 Mac Arthur;
Operations summary for November 5. Fighting in the

Oivi area continues. Aeritl attacks were made on ship ping in Tonolei Harbor (Solomons) and on Babonaro (Timor)
At least one of six fighters attempting to intercept a
B-17 on reconnaissance was destroyed.
Aerial reconnaissance revealed an enemy convoy of 14.
vessels steaming south in Bougainville Straits; 66
vessels, including some 185,000 tons of merchant ship ping, were found at Rabaul.
6.
From Harmon;
Aerial reconnaissances, November 6, disclosed the

presence of a considersble number of enemy destroyers
or light cruisers off Shortland Island.
P-4-OO's attacked the enemy positions on Guadalcanal.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Orders were issued to the SOS and AGF for the movement to Basra, in late
December, of miscellaneous service units of a strength of about 3,000.
This brings the total under movement orders to the Persian Gulf Service
Command to 16,000.
Notified Maxwell of the impending arrival in Cairo of Lt. Col. Hoskins and
one colleague on OSS business concerning Syria.
2.
3. Replied to Harmon that the shortage of ammunition precludes the authoriza tion of twenty units of fire as the minimum reserve level for our troops
in Nev; Caledonia. Effort is being made to keep the level up to ten units
of fire plus 90 dc.ys of supply either in New Caledonia or en route. Ten
units of mortar fire end five units of fire for other infantry weapons
are now en route. Informed SFPOE.
SECTION III. 1. 2.
PLANS
CCS considered CCS 103/15 on "Proposed Action" and CCS 104/3, "Plan for
Retaking Burma".
CCS noted that, in CCS 107A, "Plan for Syria", two officers are going to
Cairo, one to be in charge of all OSS operations in the Middle East, the
other to head the proposed Syrian Mission.
CCS deferred consideration of CCS 119, "Combined Radio Telegraph Procedure".
3.
- 2
>
U*
CCS directed the Combined Staff Planners to submit a brief statement on

the differences of opinion as to the allocation of US-built lending craft
for 1943. (105/3, 105A "Transportation of Landing Craft.")
THOS. T. HANDY, /..y , r _

Major General, /
Assistent Chief of Staff.
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
Mi
WASHINGTON
1700, November 8, 1942

To: Secretary of War Chief of Staff Deputy Chief of Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding Genera Services of Supply Assistant Chief of G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED . MESSENGER
SECTION I.

A reconnaissance of Attu, November 7, disclosed seven
enemy airplanes in Holtz Bay.
Our heavy bombers, with RAF fighter support, made two
attacks on the submarine base at Brest, November 7,
dropping 79^" tons of high explosives. Several groups
of enemy fighters attempted to disperse our missions
but failed, a preliminary report showing that probably
ten enemy aircraft were destroyed. All our bombers
returned safely from all missions. Results were not
confirmed because of poor visibility.
From Castner: From
3. From Eisenhower; Landings have been effected on all three beaches at

Oran, and Admiral Hewitt has put into effect the plan
to land at Rabat, Fedala, and Safi. Resistance has
been met in the assaults on the Oran and Algiers
Harbors. The Maison Blanche Airdrome at Algiers was
captured at 0842, GCT, November 8.
From Breretoni 5. From Blssell: Five B-17's attacked Tobruk, November 6, scoring several
direct hits on a 5000-ton merchant vessel.
Six B-24's attacked docks and shipping at Rangoon,
November 6, scoring direct hits on warehouses and also
on a 2,000-ton vessel which sank immediately. All of
our aircraft and personnel returned safely.m
Operations summary for November 6. Reports that he
has arrived in New Guinea and assumed direct charge of
operations. The commanders of his land and air
6. CTOKV
BUY
From MacArthuri
- 1
forces are also present.

In the Owen Stanley Range our troops continue their
progress against enemy prepared positions in the
vicinity of Oivi.
7. From Harmon: Operations report for November 7. Eleven B-17's
attacked the Rekata seaplane base; the results are un known. No enemy opposition was encountered.
Reports the changes in locations of units in the South
Pacific, including the movement of the 1st Battalion,
14.7th Infantry, from Tongatabu to Guadalcanal; and the
214th Regiment, CAC (AA), 2nd Battalion Combat Team
of the 103d Infantry, and advanced detachment of the
43d Division from New Zealand to New Caledonia.
8.
From Harmon;
SECTION II..
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
1. Authorized Eisenhower to empower Patton, Fredendall, Ryder, and Doolittle

to promote officers and enlisted men who have shown ability to command
in combat to vacancies as they develop. This authority does not extend
to staff officers.
2. Directed Brett to assume command of the Panama Canal Department and
Caribbean Defense Command vice Andrews (who assumed command of USAFIME,
November 4 ) .
Informed Fitzgerald that the Munitions Assignment Board has allocated
five C-60 airplanes to the Belgian Government for the use of the Sabena
Airlines in the Belgian Congo. These airplanes are to be delivered
approximately one per month from January through May. (OPD 452.1 Belgium
(11-5-42)
Informed Bissell that two B-25's left the US, November 7, for his theater,
and that 33 more will leave during the remainder of the month. (1711/2627)
3.
4.
SECTION III.
PLANS
THOS. T. HANDY, / ?
Major General,
- 2
if?
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 9, 19A2
To:
Secretary of War
Chief of S t a ]
Deputy Chief o
Commanding General, \ Army Air Forces \ Commanding General,
Services of Supply [Vs
Assistant Chief of Statff
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

Six B-24-'s dropped six 1,000-lb. demolition bombs on
the submarine base at Kiska Harbor November 8 with
unobserved results, and two B-26fs unsuccessfully
attacked the beached freighter in Gertrude Cove.
Two unidentified aircraft were reported over Iceland
November 8.
Thirty-one B-17's made a daylight raid on the loco-"
motive and carriage works at Lille, France, November 8;
incomplete reports indicate that the mission was
successful. Of enemy fighters attempting to inter cept our bombers four were destroyed. One of our
bombers is missing. Later that day, twelve B-17's
attacked the Abbeville airdrome. All bombers return ed safely from this mission. US and RAF fighter
squadrons supported these actions.
From Butler:
2.
From Bonesteeli
3. From
U.
From Eisenhower: Reports the recognition of Giraud as leader of the

French anti-Axis effort in North Africa, and as
Commander-in-Chief of the French Forces and Governor
of that area. The French forces in Algiers have
ceased firing and the city has been occupied by the
Allies. The port and town of Safi were captured by
assault. Batteries at Fedala were overcome by our
landing forces; and all assault troops are ashore at
Lyautey. Tafaraoui Airfield at Oran and the Blida
airport at Algiers were captured and made ready for
Allied use.
- 1
5. From MacArthur:
(1) Operations summary for November 7. Reports progress by our ground forces against the enemy's pre pared positions near Oivi, in the Owen Stanley area. Air attacks were confined to enemy installations and shipping along the northeast coast of New Guinea. Air reconnaissances disclosed a heavy naval force at Buin (Solomons), a small force at Kavieng (New Ireland), and a convoy of at least twelve large ships on a southerly course fifty miles east of Buka Passage. (2) Operations report for November 8. Ground opera tions continued in the vicinity of Oivi. Bombing missions were carried out against Japanese lines of communication on New Guinea, and against Gasmata (New Britain) and Kavieng.
6.
From Harmon:
On November 7, our pursuit aircraft attacked the enemy ground installations on Guadalcanal; other fighter air craft attacked an enemy cruiser and ten destroyers northeast of Santa Isabel Island. Thirteen B-17's participated in routine reconnaissance missions, reporting the location of enemy naval forces in the Solomons area, November 8.
7.
From Emmons:
The ground echelon of the 90th Bombardment Group left Hawaii by boat for Australia, November 9.
SECTION II.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Andrews of the action taken to meet a British request for 4 0

. American transport aircraft for immediate service with the Eritish Army
now operating in Egypt. ATC directed Fitzgerald to furnish Andrews
with up to 4 0 airplanes, with crews, for this purpose. The 316th Troop
Carrier Group, earmarked for combined British-American Air Force
special operations, has been directed to proceed at once to Cairo for
duty. The airplanes taken from Fitzgerald will be returned to him
immediately upon arrival of the 316th Group.
Informed Baldwin of the strategic division of the South Atlantic between
the US and British Navies, which will be responsible respectively in
the areas to the West and East of a line running from 4-0 South 26 West
to Ascension Island (US responsibility) thence to 20 North 4.0 West.
SECTION III.
PUNS
No approved action by JCS or CCS,

THOS. T..HANDY,
Major General,
- 2
40
4 0
40 20
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 10, 1942.

Chief of S t a /
Deputy Chief of '
Commanding General
Army Air Forces
Commanding General^
Services of Supply
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN Replies that the use of gliders in Alaska does not appear feasible because of the weather. Assumed command of Caribbean Defense Command and Panama Canal Department, midnight November 9-10. Recommends the reduction in the size of Signal Air
Warning Companies at Antigua, Surinam, Santa Lucia,
British Guiana, Talara, Salinas, Tehuantepec, and
Guatemala instead of eliminating the Signal Air
Warning Companies for Antigua, Santa Lucia, and
Surinam.
Hostile aircraft, including a Focke Wulf bomber,
were observed over Iceland November 9.
Reports that 47 heavy bombers, without fighter escort
or cover, attacked the submarine installations at St.
Nazaire, France, November 9, securing direct hits in
the target area. Heavy antiaircraft fire was re ported over the target, but no enemy aircraft were
encountered. Three of our heavy bombers are missing,
11 crew members were wounded by antiaircraft fire,
and one bomber crash-landed.
Our forces at Oran have continued their progress in
the face of enemy resistance. Naval opposition at
Casablanca was stubborn. General Anderson, of the
British Army, assumed command of the Eastern Task
force upon his arrival, November 8, at Algiers. It
is reported that as many as eleven French cruisers
and destroyers have been sunk or badly damaged. Ex tremely effective protection has been given by Allied
antisubmarine aircraft.
SECTION I.
From DeWitt: From Brett: 3. From Andrews:
From Bonesteel:
5 . From Spaatz: *
From Eisenhower:
- 1
7.
From Navy:
The Leedstown, a US transport, has been abandoned

in a sinking condition one mile from Algiers, and
the Thomas Stone, another US transport, is at
Algiers but will require major dry-dock repairs as
a result of being hit by an aerial torpedo. The
Exceller, a cargo transport, has been damaged by
a near bomb miss. A high percentage of the landing
craft aboard these ships were wrecked, but there
were only minor casualties to personnel.
Six B-24's attacked the main docks and warehouses at
Rangoon, November 9. 31,000 pounds of bombs were
dropped and many fires were started at Rangoon and
Syriam. No damage was suffered by our aircraft,
although antiaircraft fire was heavy and close.
Operations summary, November 9. Fighting continues
in the vicinity of Oivi and southeast of Gorari. Our
aircraft bombed and strafed the enemy lines of com munication on New Guinea and so severely damaged a
5,000-ton transport in St. George's Channel, that
it was beached on the lower tip of New Ireland.
Reports that no mine-laying operations have been
undertaken in enemy-held waters in the Southwest
Pacific, as mines would be dangerous to our own sub marines and only aid in the destruction of small
enemy craft. It is believed inadvisable to mine
waters which must soon be included in the operations
area of our own shipping.
Reports that, upon request of Halsey, the 14.7th In fantry (less two battalions) has been directed to
move from Tongatabu to Guadalcanal.
8.
From Bissell:
9.
From MacArthur:
10.
From Kenney;
11.
From Harmon:
SECTION II.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Replied to Eisenhower, concurring in his recommendation that air recon naissances of Greenland be suspended until open navigation prevails.
Navy and Wimsatt have been notified.
Informed Brett, that in view of the decrease in the troop basis for
the Caribbean Defense Command, the 330th Engineer Regiment, General
Service, will not be shipped to Trinidad but that the termination of
civilian construction contracts and the removal of civilian con struction personnel are to be expedited by use of all other available
means.
- 2
SECTION I I I .
PLANS
FHOS? T. HANDY/' Major General, Assistant Chief of Staff,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
170C, November 1 1 , 19/J2
To:
Secretary of War Chief of' Staf Deputy Chief of & Commanding General.^ Army Air Forces ( ^ Commanding General, *
Services of Sunplv
Assistant Chief of Staff J J
G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TURN BY COMhllSSIOi-iED MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.
: ! S > G S RECFIVED AMD ACTION TAKEN

,FSiE Four P-38's, escorted by a E-17, attacked the seven
Japanese airplanes in Holts Bay, Attu, late November 9,
setting all of them afire; two uere seen to explode.
Other aircraft attacked the freighters in Gertrude Cove
and a beached cargo ship in Kiska Harbor. All of our
aircraft returned.
No air operations were carried out November 10 because
of maintenance and repairs needed by our aircraft. Urges
that replacement aircraft and crews for the Eighth and
Twelfth Air Forces be sent as contemplated.
Parian has issued orders to all the commanders in French
North Africa, including Morocco, to cecse hostilities.
The French Army forces in the Casablanca cjrea have
capitulated. The residents of Oriai have welcomed our
troops, and prisoners there have been exchanged. Sixteen
Axis aircraft are known to have been destroyed in the
Algiers operation. Allied forces now occupy Bougie.
USAAF attacked the harbors at Benghazi and Candia, dropping
87,000 lbs. of bombs. One hit was scored on the jetty at
Candia, with a probable hit on a motor vessel. One I t - 0 . E 1 9
was destroyed with no resultant losses to our aircraft.
Three P-40's operating from Kunming November 8, dropped
fragmentation bombs on Hwangtsaopa and Lungling (S.W.
China). One of our lighters is missing.
From Butler;
2.
From Spaatz;
From Eisenhower:
From Andrews:
5. From Bissell;
ICTOFY
- 1
TT1
t.
- rom MacArthur;
Operations renort for Movember 10. Our ground forces on

Kev: Guinea hsve surrounded enemy det: chments in the
vicinity of Gorari (5 miles east of Oivi). Our bombers
and fighters attacked the enemy's lines of communication
on the north coast, destroying antiaircraft gun positions
at Sopute and securing hits on supply dumps in the
Sananenda area.
Air reconrieiss&nces disclosed e concentration of 47 vessels
at Buin and sighted 9 other vessels on a southerly course
south of Bougf inville Island (Solomons). Two of our
reconiiaissance bombers were intercepted by Japanese
fighters. Two, probably three, of the latter were shot
doY/n v/ithout loss to our aircraft.
7.
From Harmon: From Fmmons:
The garrison for Tongareva arrived November 8.

Reports that the ground echelons of the Headquarters
Squadron 5th Group, 23rd Bombardment Squadron, and 31st
Bombardment Squadron left Hawaii by boat, November 9,
for the South Pacific.
SFC'lTOf II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Inquired of Stilwell as to the date that the Chinese division? at Ramgarh

will be fit for field, service, and how many Ramearh trainees can be returned
to China as ir.rtructors for the thirty divisions.
SECTION III.
1.
PLANS
JCS directed the Joint Planners to amend the proposed directive to the Army
and Navy Munitions Board (JCS 1/6, "Priorities in Production of Munitions
Based on Strategic Requirements") to include, under first priority, a re stricted list of the critical.items essential to the war effort.
JCS recommended that CCS approve CCS 106/1, "Allied Chemical Warfare
Program", ss recommended by the Combined Planners.
JCS noted that instructions will be issued to the AAF in accordance with
Arnold'g interpretation of JCS 97/5, "Deployment of US Air Forces in the
Pacific Theater"; JCS 97/6 will be withdrawn from the agenda.
/.
JCS directed that the paper being prepared by the Joint Planners on JCS U 7 ,
"Aircraft Program Effect of Machine Tool Priority on Naval Program", be
processed informally to the JCS as soon as received.
IHOS. T. HANDY, t
Major General, '
-2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 12, 19/2

Chief of Sta
Deputy Chief of Commanding General Army Air Forces
Commanding General^
Services of Supply
' )
G-2 (Return to OPT)) SECTION I. 1. 2.
IK TURN BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

An unidentified airplane was sighted over Iceland
November 11.
The Tunis airdrome was attacked on the night of
November 10-11 by nine British Beaufighters, which
damaged many aircraft. British bombers attacked Elmas
airdrome, Sardinia, late November 10, causing extensive
damage. Axis aircraft attacked the Maison Blanche
Airdrome, Algiers, the same night but caused no damage.
36 transport aircraft carrying British paratroops and
12 carrying US paratroops arrived at this airdrome on
November 11; 14- transports also arrived at Bîda air drome (Algiers) direct from UK.
The Allied force which landed at Bougie is moving on
Djidjelli by road. Resistance by French armed forces
has ceased in North Africa, with the exception of a few
isolated localities. Troops and supolies are being un loaded with the help of French labor. Allied positions
on the west coast are being consolidated.
From Bonesteel: From Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower:
Reouests that he be informed of the War Dept. policy

regarding the use of chemicals.
Recommends that the British be informed that any con struction of medical and storage facilities in UK
beyond our Dresent reduced needs must be accomplished
by British labor without Lend-Leese aid.
9 P-4.0fs, operating from Dinjan, November 11, effec tively attacked Shingbwyiang (Burma).
From Eisenhower:
From Bissell:
- 1
6. From MacArthur; Operations summary for November 11. Oivi was occupied
and the Japanese were cleared from positions south of
Gorari: fighting continues to the east thereof.
Allied air attacks were made on shipping in the Buin-
Faisi area where one large enemy freighter was hit, on
enemy lines of communication in New Guinea, and on
Babonaro and Maobisse (Timor).
SECTION II. 1. OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Instructed DeWitt, Drum, Krueger, and Lear to notify plants, which are
producing vital materials for the Navy and which have satisfactorily
demonstrated ability to blackout within five minutes after the alarm, that
they will be exempted from participation in future practice blackouts.
Asked Eisenhower if he can use Gen. Qdic.
Informed Mac Arthur as to items of jungle clothing and enuipment now en
route to his area.
Informed Harmon that, as the presence of US troops in New Zealand, New
Caledonia, New Hebrides, and the Fijis has been made Dublic here, similar
information may be released by him providing no reference is made to
strengths or unit designations.
PLANS
2. 3. U.
SECTION III.
Major General,
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 13, 1942

To: Secretary of TJar Chief of Staff Deputy Chief of Sbwfl^ Commanding GeneraljS^. Array Air Forces ( ^ X ^ Commanding General^ Services of Supply Assistant Chief of Staff,' G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I.

November 12.
Discussions concerning a Joint French-American Plan
for operations in North Africa are continuing; Eisen hower intends to go to Algeria at once to settle
the matter. Parian informed Clark that he had no
information as to the contemplated action of the
French fleet which has received his message to
join our forces.
Ande'rson is pushing eastwards to cut off any Germans
in the eastern sector. Setif is now occupied by the
British who are also reinforcing the garrison at
Bone. Fighter planes are now operating from Bougie,
and fighter protection probably will be available
today from both Djidjelli and Bone. Fighters and
PBY squadrons are being established at Pt. Lyautey.
Axis air attacks on Bougie, November 11, were beaten
off, 11 planes being shot down by our fighters. The
same day a long-range bomber attack by Axis aircraft
on an Allied convoy north of Bougie was unsuccessful,
1. Frora Bonesteel: 2. From Eisenhower;
3. From Breretoni
Nine B-2Vs dropped forty-five 1000-lb. bombs on

Benghazi harbor, November 11; four direct hits were
scored on a large merchant vessel. All bombers re turned safely. US fighters encountering a flight
of Stukas destroyed three of them; one of our
pilots is missing.
- 1
iyiCTORY
BUY
iff
U.
From Bissell:
Nine P-40's operating from Dinjan effectively attacked Maingkwan, Burma, and a village near Myitkyina, November 12. Operations report for November 12. Gorari has been occupied by our forces which are fighting their way east astride the main trail to Iliraor; fighter air craft harassed the enemy's lines of communication. Six prisoners of war and a small amount of material were captured at Gorari; 300 enemy dead have been counted. Air activities included an attack on the airdrome at Kahili (Bougainville) where a large fire was started and six enemy aircraft probably destroyed on the ground. lg> miscellaneous ships were counted in the Buin-Faisi area where six B-17's scored hits on two large, loaded cargo vessels.
5.
From IvIacArthur:
6.
From Emmons:
One survivor of the Richenbacker flight, picked up west of Funafuti Island at 0530 GCT, November 12, stated that Rickenbacker and five others were on life-rafts in that vicinity. An intensive search of the area has been initiated.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Authorized MacArthur, Emmons, Brett, Stilwell, Andrews, Eisenhower,

Harmon, and Fitzgerald to order officers to the US for temporary duty,
utilizing air travel when necessary, providing that combat aircraft
are not diverted for this purpose and that the ATC is utilized to a
maximum.
Replying to Collins, stated that Navy considers it undesirable to em ploy barrage balloons in the Roosevelt Roads area as these would pre sent a hazard to our own aviation.
Informed Brett of the approval of the recommendations for the relocation
of certain batteries of the Roosevelt Roads Project.
Sent Eisenhower a paraphrase of a message from Childs discussing
possible action in Spanish Morocco.
2.
3. 4#
5. Explained to Harmon that the assignment of air and ground officers to

Halsey's staff was made with full knowledge of the existing close co operation between the senior staffs in the South Pacific. Such re lationship, however, does not preclude the desirability of maintaining
Army officers on Halsey' s staff, where they will be constantly avail able and intimately associated with routine staff operations.
Adm. King concurs. Requested that this matter be fully discussed
with Halsey.
- 2
PACIFIC
OCEAN
T
+. CANTON IS
FUNAFUTI I S .
SECTION III.
PLANS
THOS. T. HANDYJ /
Major General,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November U , 1942.

Secretary of War
Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of S Commanding General Army Air Forces
Commanding General,
Services of Supply
G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I. 1. From Andrews;
MESSENGER
RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

On November 12 and 13 our air force participated in main taining the pressure on the retreating Axis forces in
Libya.
Recommends that a commission, under the act of January 2,
194.2, be appointed to handle the many claims resulting
from Army operations; necessary personnel is available in
his theater.
2.
From Andrews:
3.
From Eisenhower: The Axis is continuing to strengthen its forces in

Tunisia, now estimated at 2,000 to 3,000. Their mission
is believed to be the defense of the air fields there.
Axis air attacks at Bougie after the assault resulted in
the loss of three troop transports and damage to one
carrier and two other warships.
The \-/estern Task Force reported its elements to be at
Mazagan and Safi; at Casablanca and Fedala (guarding port
and beaches); and at Port Lyautey (guarding port and air fields). All ports and airfields are operating. Its
casualties are estimated at 100 killed and 275 wounded.
U.
From Stilwell: Fran Mac Arthurs
Requests that a security battalion be furnished his

theater for the protection of air force installations.
Operations report for November 13. The Wairopi crossing
of the Kumusi River lias been occupied by Allied forces.
B-17's attacked the Kahili airdrome, (Bougainville), as
wel] as shipping in the Buin-Faisi area where two
enemy light cruisers (or destroyers) and a transport
received direct hits; the transport was set afire. Aerial
reconnaissances disclosed the departure of 16 out of 33
ships from the Buin-Faisi area during November 12.
_ I
6.
From Harmont
Operations report for November 12. One B-17 on reconnaissance shot down a Japanese fighter. An enemy naval force, consisting of two battleships or heavy cruisers, one light cruiser, and six destroyers, was reported northeast of Santa Isabel Island moving south, Operations report for November 13. Seventeen B-17's dropped 68 500-lb. bombs on an enemy naval force, ten miles northeast of Savo Island (Solomons), November 11, obtaining five or six hits on a battle ship which, when last seen, was circling at slow speed.
7.
From Harmon:
Reports that he is moving the rear echelon of his headquartersy and the headquarters of his Services of Supply, from Auckland to Noumea where all elements of his headquarters will be consolidated in about two weeks. Requests that commissioned and enlisted personnel necessary for the establishment of a 5000-man replace ment depot be ordered to New Zealand as soon as possible. A message has been received by Nimitz from Samoa re porting the arrival of Rickenbacker and two others from his plane who were picked up on November 13. Three other crew members are reported as being ashore, probably at Nuku Fetau Island. All survivors are now accounted for.
8.
From Harmon:
9.
From Emmons:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Directed that Capt. Ellsberg, USNR, now on duty with the Africa-Middle
East Forces at Durban, South Africa, be ordered by air to duty with
CG, Allied Forces, at Oran.
Replying to a query from Eisenhower as to means of identification of
civilians accompanying our forces, OPD stated that each one carries an
identity certificate which also gives his duties but does not indicate
any equivalent status as an officer in case of capture. This last,
matter is now under consideration.
Replied to Elsenhower that the War Department concurs that the British
should be informed that any construction of medical and storage facil ities in UK beyond our present reduced needs are to be accomplished
by British labor without Lend-Lease aid.
Informed Connolly that he is responsible for the projects undertaken
by the Iranian Mission. 1000 additional troops have been added to his
strength, bringing the total to 24-,876.
- 2
2.
3.
U.
_ !
SECTION III.
1.
PUNS
CCS agreed to obtain Eisenhower's views on "Equipment for French

Divisions in North Africa", (CCS 120) and directed the Combined
Munitions Assignments Board to review November and December assign ments to determine to what extent certain materials could be made
available by December 20, 1942.
CCS approved CCS 106/1, "Allied Chemical Warfare Program", subject to
textual amendments agreed upon during the discussion.
CCS deferred action on CCS 119, "Combined Radio and Telegraph Procedure",
pending further consideration by the representatives of the British
Chiefs of Staff.
CCS noted action already taken by the Combined Military Transportation
Committee re CCS 103/16, "Proposed Action if Spain becomes hostile,
etc."
2. 3.
U.
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General, '
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 15, 194-2.

Chief of Staff4M**
Deputy Chief of St
Commanding General Array Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

Replied to War Department instructions (re cer tain plants being exempted from practice blackouts)
that practice blackouts have never been and are not
now permitted within the Western Defense Command.
An unidentified plane was sighted over Kiska November
12. Enemy landing barges were sighted on the south
shore of Holtz Bay and on the east shore of Chichagof
Harbor, Attu, on November 13. Apparently the Japanese
have reoccupied Attu with about 500 men.
A large unidentified plane flew over Greenland
November 10.
From DeWitt:
2.
From Buckner:
3. From Wimsattt
From Eisenhower; Beginning at dusk November 12, Bougie was again

attacked by torpedo bombers; results have not been .
reported. ' On November 13, enemy dive bombers un successfully attacked empty troop-carrying destroyers
and ground forces at Bone. Antiaircraft weapons
arrived there by road and by air. Oran harbor is
open for light vessels.
Headquarters, Eastern Air Force, has moved to
Algiers. Eisenhower and Cunningham flew to Algiers
and later returned to Gibraltar. Five loaded air-
transports were destroyed by the Malta air support
on the night of November 12-13. Nine Wellington
bombers successfully bombed El Aouina airdrome at
Tunis.
pqgyiCTORY ijffl BUY vTfflH UNITED
JIIIJA?'"" Jh^StAMPS
J j B L ITATH
5.
From Adler:
Reports that he will leave for Moscow November 16.
- 1
6.
From MacArthur:
Operations report for November 14. Small detach ments of our forces have crossed to the east side
of the Kumusi River in the vicinity of Wairopi.
Our aircraft assisted operations by harassing
attacks. Allied bombers attacked Manatoto (Timor),
Three B-17's attacked a convoy 90 miles southeast
of Buin, setting fire to a 10,000-ton transport
crowded with troops.
A force of twelve ships, including four cruisers,
arrived in the Euin-Faisi area, bringing the total
there to 22 ships.
7.
From Harmon:
The 182nd Infantry (less 3d Bn.), 245th Field

Artillery Bn., and other units arrivedât Guadal canal from New Caledonia, November 12.
The 147th Infantry (less two bns.) left Tongatabu,
November 14.
8.
From Harmon:
SECTION II.
1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Prepared for the signature of C/S a reply to COMINCH concurring in

the latter1s plan to transfer the center of development in the Seward
Peninsula to Teller.
Informed Bradley and Faymonville that the necessity for "winterizing"
aircraft to be delivered to the Soviet Government over the Alaskan-
Siberian route will retard deliveries; the Russians understand and
agree.
For the week ending November 12, 22 A-20's, and two B-25's left Fair banks en route to Russia. -Remaining at that departure point are 13
B-25's and 28 A-20'&, all of which will be winterized before departure.
During September, October and November, a total of 61 A-20's, 13 B-25's,
4 0 P-40's and 9 P-39's were delivered at Fairbanks for the Russians.
. Ten new C-47's, completely winterized, are scheduled for delivery
within the next few days to replace those now being operated on the
Alaska-Siberia air ferry.
2.
3.
(JCS) notified Nimitz that Array and Navy air organizations assigned
to the Central and South Pacific Areas (and Navy air units assigned
to the North Pacific) are subject to deployment and redistribution
as he may deem necessary. The purpose of this is to allow the commander
on the spot complete freedom of use of his means to accomplish his
mission. Any redistribution thus effected must be reported to
Washington for necessary logistic purposes.
- 2
SECTION III.
PUNS
. T. HANDY',
Major General,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700,
November 1 6 , 1942
To:
Secretary of War Chief of Staff f Deputy Chief of fc Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staf
G-2 ( R e t u r n t o OPD)
IN TURiM BY COMMISSIONED MESSENGER
SECTION I . 1 .
MESSAGES RECEIVED A D ACTION TAKEN M
From D e W i t t :
In crder to increase the fire power of light FA batteries in Alaska, requests authority to retain the 75 ^m guns now there, in addition to the 105ramhowitzers which are being sent to rep]a ce them. Urges that infantry troops be thoroughly trained in the
technique of removing mines.
Recommends a change in the Geneva Convention to permit
the working of prisoners of war in areas of a theater cf
operation which are not under fire.
Recommends concurrence in Parian* s plan to return from
Casablanca to Martinique those machinery parts taken
from naval and merchant ships, provided that there is
concrete indication that Adm. Robert will cooperate with
us.
On November 15 Parian intended to announce that Giraud
is participating in the provisional government as head
of the armed forces, but that neither DeGaulle nor any
of his government would be recognized. Eisenhower im mediately instructed Clark to inform Parian of his
strong disapproval of this latter reference believing
that we cannot afford to alienate gratuitously the
support of DeGaulle's sympathizers.
Orders were issued November 15 for the movement of
French troops from Algiers and Constantine eastwards
to protect Anderson1s flank. German airplanes have
been fired on by French antiaircraft units. A tank
destroyer battalion was ordered from Oran to Algiers
as French units are virtually devoid of.antitank units.
Fran Andrews: 3. From Eisenhower:
4.
From Eisenhower:
From Ei
- 1
Foiar enemy aircraft were destroyed at Bone on November

13; also eleven at Bougie during the attack on our
shipping the same day. German aircraft actively
reconnoitered our dispositions in Algeria.
Photographic reconnaissance the evening of November
14 showed the French fleet still at Toulon.
Orders have been issued to subordinate commanders to 1>
prepare estimates of the vital requires<=^* in fnor,.
clothing, and m^dical'suoplies"for the
Transport
the mill/tarv
Asks whether the 200 trucks which the Iranian govern ment has told him will be shipped from the US are for
the Iranian Army, which urgently neeas them.
Operations report for November 15. Advanced petrols
of the Allied force are six miles northeast of Wairopi.
There is no enemy opposition, but the flooded condition
of the Kumusi River is delaying forv/ard movement.
Extensive air attacks were made on enemy lines of com munication in this area. Hq. 32d US Division are now
at Bofu (17 miles SW of Buna). Patrols of the 128th
Infantry are within 6 miles of Buna.
Air attacks were also made at R&baul, where a direct
hit was scored on a large shiD, a possible hit on
another, and severe damage was don^ to harbor instal lations; on the Kahili airdrome (Buin), where at least
8 aircraft were destroyed: and on shipping in the Buin-
Faisi area, where near misses were scored on two ships.
Our troops attacked 200 hostile natives near Maobisse,
Timor, on November 13.
8. From Harmon;
From New Caledonia eight fighter airplanes have been
moved to Guadalcanal, and 31 to Efate; the air echelons
of two bombardment squadrons, accompanied by five
fighter airplanes, have been sent to Espiritu Santo
from Fiji and New Caledonia. Two additional fighter
squadrons are being unloaded at Espiritu Santo.
A B-24 on reconnaissance reports seeing, 700 miles
north of Oahu, a small low-wing monoplane. This sug gests the presence of an enemy carrier, and the
possibility of an air attack.
: v , .
:>>>
^
6.
From Ridley:
7.
From MacArthur
9.
From Emmons
- 2
10.
From Einmons:
Requests that an additional heavy bombardment group be

assigned to the Hawaiian Department, in view of the
transfer of the 5th Bombardment Group (less one
squadron) to the South Pacific Ares.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Asked Eisenhower for comments on a War Department proposal to issue

instructions that French airmen who may join our forces (such as those
who recently landed at Roberts Field) be sent to North Africa.
Informed Eisenhower and Patton of units, totalling 22,000 men, to be
shipped Pcitton by UGF-3. This reinforcement includes the 2nd Armored
Division, the balance of the 3d and 9th Division artilleries, Air Support,
Signal, Engineer and other service units.
Notified Adler that our M A at Kuibyshev, will advance him $10,000 for
contingent expenses of his mission.
Concurred in the proposal of Adra. Freeman and DeWitt that the War Departnert
take action to stop the censoring of mail to Alaska.
Instructed Brett to designate an infantry regiment trained and equipped
for jungle warfare to move as part of a regimental combat team to the
Southwest Pacific Area about January 1. Other elements of this combat
team will be supplied from the continental US.
Informed Connolly that, by CCS agreement, all security for the operation
of Persian Corridor supply routes to Russia is to be provided by the
British and that he is so to inform the British commander. Our MP's are
for police of US personnel only.
Requested MacArthur* s recommendations, based on experience gained in
jungle war-fare, on T/0 and T/BA for divisions and regimental combat teams.
Referred to TAG Andrews * request for the appointment of a claims commission.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
SECTION III.
PLANS
M 0 S . T. HANDY, ' /
Major General,
-3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 17, 1942.

To: Secretary of W a r ^ w * ^
)
Chief of Staff //If
Deputy Chief of Staff
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General, k I
Services of Supply ( V '
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I.

A B-24. dropped nine 500-lb. bombs in the Attu
village area on November 15. Antiaircraft fire
was encountered.
An unidentified airplane was reported over Iceland
November 15.
1. From Butler:
From Bonesteel:
From Eisenhower: Parian announced Giraud as commander-in-chief of his

ground and air forces and Michelier as head of his
naval forces, November 15. No reference was made to
DeGaulle Should it become necessary to enter into
a formal agreement with the Parian regime beyond the
scope of military operations, such agreement will be
submitted to the US and British Governments prior to
signature.
Reliable information indicates that Vichy has dir ected Admiral Esteva at Tunis to resist the Allies
and cooperate with the Axis. Laval appears to favor
an alliance with Germany, but Petain, with Weygand'g
vigorous, support, refuses to accept it.
The naval and transport shipping of the Western Task
Force left Safi for the US on November 13.
Ten RAF fighter squadrons, one light bomber squadron,
one squadron of B-17's, and twelve long-range Amer ican fighters are now established in the British
First Army area, the fighters operating from Algiers,
Djidjelli and Bone.
syiCTORY
BUY
UNITED
TATES
AVINO1
NDS
- 1
One Allied and two French ships were damaged when

Bougie was bombed the night of November 13-14;
seven enemy aircraft were probably destroyed. Bone,
the docks at Algiers, and the Maison Blanche air drome were bombed ineffectively.
After a temporary withdrawal, the enemy has reoccupied
Tunis.
From Eisenhower:
Requests additional anti-submarine measures. A
squadron of Willingtons is being dispatched from UK
to Gibraltar for this purpose.
5. From Andrews;
On November 15> US bombers successfully attacked
enemy motor transportation of the retreating force
in Libya; one enemy airplane was destroyed. One of
our aircraft crash-landed in the desert, but the
crew is believed to be safe.
The proposed refining operations at the Kansu oil
field cannot be initiated before June, 1944 Facil ities to be completed shortly will provide an esti mated 5,000,000 gallons of 50 octane gasoline in 194-3.
Transportation from Kansu to Kunming costs about $7.50
(US currency) per gallon. Recommends that a qualified
oil man be sent to investigate and make recommendations
Operations report for November 16. One Australian
brigade has crossed the Kumusi River (New Guinea).
Enemy aircraft sank a trawler assisting the advance
of the 32d Division along the coast. Intensive,
coordinated aerial missions in support of ground
operations were continued. One of our aircraft
was shot down by antiaircraft fire.
Maobisse and Babonaro, on Timor, were also bombed by
Allied aircraft.
Reconnaissance missions were flown over Rabaul and
the northern Solomons.
8. From Harmon:
Reconnaissance aircraft, November 15> sighted five
transports afire west of Santa Isabel Island and
four others beached and burning at Tassafaronga
(Guadalcanal). Three B-17's obtained hits on two
transports west of Santa Isabel.
6.
From Stilwell:
7.
From MacArthurj
- 2
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Asked Andrews for information on all captured materiel and ammuni tion, with particular reference to recaptured US equipment which
may possibly be made available to equip Fighting French forces.
Informed Eisenhower that requests are being received from Frenchmen
for duty with Giraud. that names and other information on them will
be submitted by OPD, and that individuals desired will be sent
promptly.
Asked MacArthur to investigate the possibility that a large amount
of the equipment of the 2d Amphibian Brigade may be available locally
in Australia.
PLANS
2.
3.
SECTION III.
No action reported by JCS or CCS,
THOS. T. HANDY/
Major General,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November IS, 1942

Chief of Staftf
Deputy Chief o Staff
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General/
Services of Supply [ x '/*
Assistant Chief* of Staff, l^
G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TURi\T BY COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

A general alert, with intensified air patrols, was
ordered for the Alaskan Sector on November 16 after
indications that a possible enemy carrier force was
between Alaska and Hawaii.
(l) On November 16, four US Spitfires accompanied
RAF fighters on a low-altitude sweej over France,
scoring hits on a gun position and an army vehicle.
All planes returned safely to their base.
(2) On November 17, 33 American bombers success fully attacked the submarine base at St. Nazaire.
Six enemy fighters, of 40 attacking these bombers,
were claimed destroyed. All bombers returned
From DeWitt;
2.
From Eaker:
3. Fr-om Eisenhower:
Replying to- a question asked by OPD in behalf of

the State Dept. in connection with negotiations
with Adm. Robert, Eisenhower stated that Adm. Battet
has been with Parian throughout, and is actively
cooperating.
4.
From Eisenhower: (l) Casualties up to noon, November 15, totalled:

531 killed, 1054 wounded,
237 missing
U. S. Navy: Not reported
British Army (incomplete): 150 killed
British Navy: 69 killed, 58 wounded, 22 missing
(2) For November 16, Eisenhower reports contact
between French and German motorcycle patrols some
60 miles west of Tunis. Two British paratroop
- 1 U. S.
companies dropped successfully in the vicinity.

Six enemy and three Allied airplanes were destroyed.
Bone was bombed intermittently but with little damage
during November 15.
. From Eisenhower
In order to avoid creation of animosities and to
promote cooperation of French units, he has delib erately understated the intensity of the fighting
with the French, from which heavy casualties result ed to our forces.
Operations report November 17: Allied troops con tinued to close in on Buna, elements of the US 32d
Division being but three miles to the southeast.
There was no report of enemy contact. Allied bombers
carried out heavy attacks on enemy airfields, shipp ing and lines of communication. Two direct hits
were scored on a la.rge merchant vessel southeast of
Rabaul; another bomb hit the operations building at
Lae, where an antiaircraft machine gun position was
silenced. Towns on Timor were also bombed. In all
these operations six enemy bombers and ten other
aircraft were destroyed. Two of our airplanes are
missing.
(1) Delayed summary for November 14. Reports the
sighting, by B-17's on reconnaissance, of some 45
enemy naval vessels at different points in the
Solomons area. An enemy transport and seaplane
tender between Santa Isabel and Guadalcanal were
attacked by our B-17's; a direct hit was scored on
the transport. In the above operations, nine enemy
fighter airplanes were shot down without loss to
our aircraft, although some suffered minor damage.*
(2) Operations report November 16. B-17's on
reconnaissance reported two enemy transports burn ing south of Santa Isabel Island.
8. From Ernmons
Requests 39 gliders, with- pilots, for his troop
carrier unit, and desires gliders concurrently with
any troop carrier units assigned to his command on
the basis of three gliders per airplane.
6.
From MacArthur:
7.
From Harmon:
SECTION II.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Sent to SOS, for their guidance, information furnished by CCS of

British arrangements for action in the event of an Axis chemical
attack.
- 2
S e n t
Eisenhower the text of the President's statement on the North

African political situation.
34-
Proposed to Eisenhower the reorganization of his American forces into

the Fifth Army, at the appropriate time.
Informed^MacArthur that an infantry regiment, jungle trained, a 75 mm
pack howitzer battalion, mountain trained, and certain additional
units have been made available to him. Asked what priority he desired
for these units and whether he can improvise additional units needed
to employ effectively those listed above.
Replied to Emmons that an additional heavy bombardment group is not
available for assignment to his theater.
PLANS
5.
SECTION III. 1.
JCS agreed to consult the Maritime Commission regarding JCS 151,

"Modification of 1943 Shipbuilding Program of the Maritime Commission"
and directed the Joint Planners to submit their findings as to whether
the vital items called for in this paper can be made available without
interfering with the military and naval programs, including aircraft.
JCS agreed on a proposal to be submitted to the CCS; completed plans
for the use by non-military US agencies of cryptographic systems
approved by the Joint Communications Board (JCS I38-I38/I, "Security
of Ciphers").
JCS disapproved the request of the Board of War Communications and the
Office of* War Information in JCS 125/1, "Critical Materials for Inter national Broadcasting".
JCS disapproved the request of the Surgeon General, US Army, for three
additional hospital ships in JCS 52/3? "Provision of Additional Hospital
Ships".
2.
3.
4.
5. JCS agreed to inform representatives of the British Chiefs of Staff

of their concurrence in the draft directive to Air Marshal Drummond
in inclosure to CCS 122, "Dispatch of USBritish Air Contingent to
the Caucasus", and of the contents of the directive issued to Adler.
6. Referred JCS 143/2, "Allocation of Twenty Additional Ships for Use in
the Southwest Pacific" to the Combined Military Transportation
Committee for study and preparation of recommendations to CCS.
Referred JCS 152, "Strategic Policy for 1943" to the Joint Strategic
Survey Committee for study.
7.
-3
,111.
JCS agreed to recommend to CCS that the Combined Planners examine the
situation in the Mediterranean and recommend a policy for considera tion of CCS for future action, the Joint Strategic Survey Committee to
submit recommendations to JCS as to the strategic possibilities exist ing upon completion of current operations there.
JCS noted that the Joint Blanners are studying JCS 147, "Aircraft
Program - Effect of Machine Tool Priority on Naval Program".
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
- 4
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 19, 1942.

Toi Secretary of "ifar Chief of Staf: Deputy Chief of Commanding General, Army Air Forces
Commanding General^
Services of Supply /rrw j
Assistant Chief of Staff,\j
G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I. 1.

Three unidentified aircraft were reported over Iceland November 17. In unescorted daylight attacks, 42 B-17fs bombed the submarine base at La Pal l i c e , November 18, while. 13 w B-24fs struck at the submarine base at Lorient.' T o diversion missions were flown by 26 heavy bombers escorted by R F f i g h t e r s . One of our B-17's is missing A and a B-24 crash-landed at i t s home base. The French were in position to the east of Beja on November 17, driving off German patrols at Oued Karga (40 miles west of Tunis) and a t Mateur (35 miles north west of Tunis). Antisubmarine patrols flying from Gibraltar disabled one submarine." T o Axis airplanes were shot down in an w attack on Bone. One B-17 crashed at sea. Severe bombing has reduced the capacity of the port of Bougie to two ships.
From Bone steel:
2.
From Eaker:
3.
From Eisenhower
4.
From Baldwin:
Requests that shipping be warned against approaching Asoension Island until prompt and accurate identification has been offered and acknowledgment has been made. O November 12, a t o t a l of 57 Japanese airplanes attacked n U air forces operating in China and were engaged by a S t o t a l of 10 P-40 f s. One enemy airplane was destroyed, with 6 "probables", to a loss of one p-40. O November n 15, three P-40 f s destroyed ten trucks between Lungling and Tengchung, Yunan Province.
5,
From Bisselit
- I
sit
F r o m
MacArthur t
Operations report, November 18. Allied forces continued

their advance from the south and southwest on Buna, no
report of contact with the enemy being made. Our bombers
attacked the Salamaua and Lae airdromes and the Buna area.
Two B-17's, while attacking an enemy naval force north of
Holnicote Bay, shot down two out of seven Zero fighters
which intercepted them. In Holnicote Bay six B-17fs later
scored a direct hit on a cruiser, which was last seen
burning and believed sunk; a direct hit on a destroyer,
which split amidships; and caused heavy enemy casualties
by bombing troop-laden barges. Allied troops on Timor
attacked hostile natives near Maobisse, November 15,
killing 46.
Operations report, November 17. One enemy transport was
seen burning between Santa Isabel and Guadalcanal. P-S^s
harassed the enemy beach areas and boats on Guadalcanal.
7.
From Harmon;
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Notified SOS of the disapproval by the JCS of the request of the Surgeon
General for three additional hospital ships.
Asked CG, AGF, for a list of Mexican citizens who have distinguished them selves in the US military service and have earned promotion or distinction
thereby, in order to enable the State Dept. to meet reports of discrimination
against its nationals which have reached the Mexican Government.
Inquired of DeWitt as to the basis of his estimate of 10,000 enemy at Kiska
as compared with Army and Navy flyers1 estimates of 5,000.
Informed all concerned of the organization of the "United States Army Forces
,3outh Atlantic" with headquarters at Recife, commanded by Walsh. Excepted
from the command are the activities and facilities of the Air Transport
Command and those of the American Intelligence Command.
Informed Eisenhower that action must be taken to avoid violations of Inter national Law such as have occurred through recent flights of military air craft over neutral territory.
Replied to Ridley that the request for 200 trucks for the Iranian Army has
been referred to the Munitions Assignment Board and that no trucks as yet
have been promised the Iranian Government. They will probably be sent,
however, and are intended for the Iranian Army,
Advised Kenney that #38 caliber revolvers with shoulder holster are being
procured for combat crews instead of ,45 pistols; inquired as to the quantity
he desires.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
- 2
SECTION I I I .
PLANS
HOS. T. HANDY/ Major General, Assistant Chief of Staff.
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 20, 1942

Chief of Staff'if'
Commanding General Army Air Forces
Commanding General,
Services of Supply
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I.
iÊSSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

One unidentified airplane was reported over Iceland,
November 19,
1, From Bonesteel:
2. From Eisenhower: Replies that the services of Odic are not desired
at this time*
3# From Eisenhower: The German commander in Tunis, Gen# Nehring, on
November 18 issued an ultimatum to Gen* Barre to
surrender or be attacked at 0700 November 19 Barre
refused* Nehring at 0500 November 19 demanded that
German troops be permitted to pass or hostilities
would commence at 0700, but there had been no attack
as of 1952 on November 19 Ninety tanks and many
light armored vehicles have been landed by the Axis
at Bizerte*
Clark reports that both he and Anderson are completely
satisfied with the oooperation of Frenoh troops in
Tunisia and Eastern Algeria. He believes that Parian * s
direct orders to French commanders had a helpful effect,
and that Parian is bending every effort to assist us*
French units were aotive yesterday in the vicinity of
Gabes where they were attempting to intercept a German
railroad train presumably carrying ground personnel of
air units*
The Frenoh North African Commission published, on
November 19, an order statings "There is granted full
and entire amnesty to all persons who favored Allied
action in Africa,"
- 1
4.
From MacArthur
Operations report for November 19: Allied forces

on New Guinea are now in contact with the 'enemy one
mile south of Gona, near the Soputa crossing (5^
miles southwest of Buna) and in the vicinity of the
Buna airdrome.
Five Catalinas, attacking the airdrome at Kavieng,
dropped their bombs on the dispersal areas and run ways, Manatuto and Baucau, on Timor, were also
bombed; no results were reported.
5#
From MacArthur:
Reports that the capabilities of engineer amphibian

units are particularly adapted to operations in his
theater, and requests that two additional amphibian
brigades be made available not later than May 1, 1943.
Recommends a supplementary allocation of tank lighters
for units in this theater.
(1) Operations summary November 18: Eleven B-17 f s,
four B-26s, and seven P38's attacked an enemy
naval force in the Buin area, hitting at least one
cargo ship. Twenty-two (probably twenty-three)
out of thirty-nine enemy pursuit craft intercepting
our bombers were shot down. One of our B-17 f s,
badly damaged in combat, crash-landed.
(2) Operations summary November 19: Reports the
rescue of Colonel Saunders, the B-17 group commander
whose plane crash-landed the previous day.
6. From Harmonx
SECTION I I . 1 .
OTHER ACTION T.AKEN
m R e p l i e d t o DeWitt, a u t h o r i z i n g him t o r e t a i n h i s 75 m ûns i n Alaska,

i n a d d i t i o n t o t h e 105 m h o w i t z e r s being s e n t t o r e p l a c e them, u n t i l
m t h e 75 *s may b e needed f o r conversion t o t a n k d e s t r o y e r weapons.
Requested E i s e n h o w e r ' s recommendations a s t o delaying; t h e s a i l i n g date
of a t r o o p convoy movement t o permit an i n c r e a s e i n t h e number of troops
shipped by t h e u s e of l a r g e r s h i p s
Informed MacArthur t h a t f o r t y - e i g h t 75 mm pack h o w i t z e r s , p a r t of t h e t o t a l US requirement f o r h i s t h e a t e r , w i l l be a v a i l a b l e l a t e i n December, with sixteen additional for the Australian Army# Requested he indicate the shipping priority for these howitzers. PA S LN
2 .
3 .
SECTION I I I .
N aotion reported by JCS or CCS. o ,

IOS. T.
Major General,
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 21, 1942,

To: Secretary of War Chief of 3tafi<C_ Deputy Chief of Staff ' Commanding General, Ar-ny Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Siaff,
G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I. 1,

Two unidentified monoplanes were sighted east of
Buldir I. November 20. Normal fighter patrols and
all bombers are still on the alert to attack enemy
shipping.
Submits the basis of Buckner's estimate of 10,000, in
which Theobald concurs, for the enemy force at Kiska,
An unidentified airplane appeared over Iceland November
20.
Adnw Battet has been most helpful. His attitude con-
si 8tenFjfTol lows that of Parian. He hopes to command
the cruiser in Martinique if those ships become available.
Forwards draft of Protocol No. 1 received from Algiers,
and submits comments. Urges speed in arriving at an
approved text in order to sustain the energies of Parian
and his colleagues.
On November 18 French and British forces were in contact
with the Germans along a line some 35 miles west of
Bizerte and Tunis where the enemy is digging in.
Additional troops of the British 78th Division are
moving up to this line as is our 106th AA Automatic
Weapons Battalion from Algiers.
On November 19 two companies of British paratroops with
armored cars and artillery supported the French at
Medjez-El-Bab (west of Tunis) in repelling four assaults
by the Germans who used tanks and infantry preceded by
artillery fire and supported by Stukas* The same day
From Butler:
2.
From DeWitt:
3.
From Bonesteel
4.
Fran Eisenhower:
5. .From Eisenhowers
6.
From Eisenhower:
- 1
a battalion of the British 36th Brigade repulsed an

attack of some 400 German infantry and 30 tanks at
Djebel Abiod, at the north end of the line,
Gaf sa airdrome has been occupied by a small guard from
the US 503d Parachute Battalion. The port of Philippeville
is now in use.
On November 16 successful attacks were made on El Aouine
airdrome (Tunis) and on Bizerte by B-17's and by Bisley
airplanes. In all air operations reported for the day
seven enemy aircraft were destroyed at a cost of six
Allied airplanes* One enemy submarine was destroyed by
a torpedo airplane.
7. From Doolittle:
The first flight of the air transport service from Acora
to Oran was completed on November 18, bringing cargo
which arrived at Accra November 17
Hopes to establish his L of C eastward from Casablanca
at an early date, with critical points guarded by the
French; this will permit consolidation of American
ground forces. An available officer will be designated
as acting Army commander when the Army organization is
announced* Despite shortage of suitable facilities,
Eisenhower is striving to use air action to slow up the
continual Axis reinforcement of Tunisia, to concentrate
the British First Army there, and to support it with
everything possible.
US fighter aircraft continued the attacks against Axis
airdromes, motor transport, and armored vehicles, November
16 and 17. On November 18, US bombers struck at Benghazi
harbor, starting additional fires in the dook area.
8 6-24*8, operating from Chakulia (Assam), bombed the
Mandalay railroad yard and engine repair shop November
20.
Operations report for November 20. Allied forces have
captured Soputa and are in contact with the enemy on the
outskirts of Buna* Weather restricted air operations;
three B-17's on reconnaissance shot down two (probably
four) Zeros. A Catalina, bombing Kavieng, destroyed
one airplane on the ground.
8.
From Eisenhower:
9.
From Brereton:
10.
From Bissell:
11
From MaoArthurt
- 2
Details as to aircraft at Kahili (Bougainville) and

shipping sighted in the Buin-Faisi and Bismarck areas
are included*
SECTION II. 1* 2. OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Prepared letter for signature of c/s informing DeWitt that it is inadvisable

to send the 184th Infantry to Alaska at the present time.
Replying to a request from DeWitt that Navy be impressed with the urgent
need for escort vessels for convoys in Alaska, stated that this matter has
been discussed with the Navy which is well aware of the importance of
current movements but due to other commitments oan allot only three mine layer type destroyers at present to replace seven destroyers being with drawn.
3. Prepared for signature of DC/s a letter to Mr. Welles setting forth the
cogent objections to the use, overseas, of a Mexican division (or other
Latin-American units) as proposed by the President of Mexico.
4. Informed Brett that Hooverf s proposal to place a US officer in command of
the local joint defense forces in Jamaica has been discussed with Navy,
which feels that the British should retain unity of command for the present.
Recommended that CCS approve the proposal of the US members of the Munitions
Assignments Committee that 125,000 Enfield rifles, cal. .303, from N.
American production, as yet unassigned, be made available for the proposed
French divisions. (Rifles are the critical item upon which the program cf
equipping these divisions depends*)
Informed Eisenhower that our M A at Madrid has been advised to instruct
French officers, fleeing into Spain as the result of German occupation,
to make their way to Allied headquarters at Gibraltar.
5*
6.
7. Replied to Eisenhower that War Department polioy regarding the use of

chemicals was contained in instructions already a cknowledged by his
headquarters
8# Directed SOS to send Stilwell, by air, a competent oil expert to investi gate the production and refining of petroleum in Kaasu, particularly with
regard to determining the desirability of complying with the Chinese
request for additional equipment*
SECTION III. 1#
PLANS
CCS noted that both inclosures to CCS 124, "Plans and Operations in the
Middle East and Near East11, have been referred to the Combined Planners
for study and report*
- 3
2.
CCS directed the Combined Munitions Assignment Board to assign immediately

to Eisenhower certain equipment for the French forces in North Africa;
further requests from him for such equipment are to be referred to the
Combined Munitions Assignments Board (CCS 120 and 120/l, "Equipment of
French Divisions in North Africa")
CCS noted CCS 122 and 122/l, "Dispatch of a U.S.British Air Contingent
to the Caucasus."
CCS instructed the Secretaries to draft a directive to a combined committee
of experts who are to establish classifications of security for each type
of cipher (CCS 123, "Security of Ciphers"), as a guide for US and British
departments.
CCS instructed the Secretariat to dispatch an appreciative reply to the
Netherlands Military Missions. (CCS 125, "Offer of Assistance in French
Guiana")
The views of the British Chiefs of Staff on CCS 119 and 119/l, "Combined
Radio-Telgraph Procedure", are to be circulated to CCS immediately upon
receipt.
CCS noted that the U.S. Secretariat would prepare a reply, for signature
of the President, to Mr. Curtin's request for "Return of the 9th
Australian Division from the Middle East."
CCS dispatched a telegram to Eisenhower on CCS 103/17, "North African
Protocol No. 1."
3.
4*
5.
6.
7.
8.
THOS. T. HANDY, ri
Major General,
Assistant Chief of St
- 4
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700 November 22, 1942
To:
Secretary of War
Chief of Staff ^
Commanding General,~ Army Air Forces Commanding Gener
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of S
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

Replies that aerial photographs of Kiska taken between
September 30 and October 8 and analyzed with due regard
for low Japanese standards in housing, provided the
basis for estimating hostile strength there at not less
than 9500.
In addition to the previously reported attacks on La
Pallice and Lorient on November 18, nineteen B-17!s
attacked the submarine base at St. Nazaire the same
day, obtaining hits on installations there. This
group*encountered enemy fighters, destroying one and
probably four more.
On November 19 and 21 our Spitfires made low-altitude
attacks on gun positions, motor transport and enemy
shipping along the French coast, destroying one FW 190
and one HE 126. One of our Spitfires was shot down by
antiaircraft fire.
From DeWitt;
2.
From Eaker:
3.
From Eisenhower; From Bissell;
During the night November 20-21, 30 airplanes bombed

the Bone-Bougie area.
Five B-25's operating from Kunming, escorted by five
P-^-O't, bombed Lungling on November 20, securing pro bable direct hits on an ammunition dump.
Operations report for November 21. The Japanese are
resisting strongly in the Buna area. Extensive and
effective air attacks in support of land operations
there were made on the Buna airdrome and on the Sananda
area. Other air missions included the bombing of Kavieng
airdrome and installations in the Buka Passage area,
during which one enemy bomber was set on fire.
- 1
From MacArthur:
5tJ
6.
From MacArthur;
Requests naval support for the north coast of New

Guinea, since operational control of his submarines
along the east coast of Australia has passed to
Halsey. States that motor torpedo boats would be
invaluable in the present situation. Requests im mediate notification if no support is possible so
that he may revise his plan of campaign.
Replies that he is able to improvise additional units
required for the effective employment of the regi mental combat team ma,de available to him, and recom mends a shipping priority for this combat team.
Air operations report for November 21. B-17 recon naissances from Guadalcanal were resumed,
7.
From MacArthur;
8.
Fran Harmon;
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Notified Fitzgerald of authority granted to Eisenhower to negotiate with

French officials in West Africa, these negotiations possibly to take
place in some part of Fitzgerald's area.
Requested from Doolittle a complete report on the present location and
status of 12th Air Force units, to be followed henceforth by regular
weekly status reports.
Informed Stilwell that the 14th Replacement Control Depot, originally
scheduled for assignment to the 10th Air Force will not be activated;
that the 34-th Replacement Company is the only replacement unit to" be
furnished his theater in the near future.
Informed Stilwell that the War Department will furnish the necessary
personnel and equipment to establish his communications at a minimum
effective operating level, but cannot provide the full system desired
for at least another year. Requested that he send by air, for tempor ary duty with the War Department, a signal officer able to assist in
the preparation of a revised plan.
Informed MacArthur that plans have been completed to dispatch the 25th
Division from Hawaii to Australia beginning November 25.
2.
3.
4.
5.
SECTION III.
PLANS
taos.
- 2 T. HANDY/
'
Major General,
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 23, 1942

Chief of StaffM
Deputy Chief of
Commanding Gener Army Air Forces Commanding Gener
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of Staff,1
G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I. 1. IN TURN BI COMMISSIONED
MESSENGER

Bombers in Alaska are still on alert. Weather
planes scouting Kiska and Attu November 20 and 21
drew antiaircraft fire from Kiska.
(to CCS) In accordance with the instructions of the
President, agreed to by the Prime Ministerf the Pro tocol, as amended, was signed November 22 at Algiers.
(to SGS) His command post will move to Algiers with in the next three days.
Cites difficulties of operating aircraft from in adequate fields, contrasted with the Axis bases in
Sicily and Sardinia. Patton reports the M-l rifle
unsuitable for landing operations.
Effective at 2330Z November 21, Allied forces in his
North Africa area will use Zone A time (GMT plus one
hour) for all messages excepting those to the War
Dept. and the Navy in which Z Zone (Greenwich) time
will be used. The proper suffix letter (Z or A as
appropriate) will habitually be included in each
time group.
November 18: Air activity included an enemy attack
on Bone in which four of his aircraft were destroyed.
Our B-17's bombed the Bizerte airdrome.
November 20: Algiers was raided by the enemy, five
of our airplanes being destroyed on the ground.
B-17's, escorted by fighter aircraft, attacked Tunis
airfield by daylight, destroying five (probably ten)
enemy aircraft; in addition, four enemy fighters were
From Butler;
2.
From Eisenhower;
3. U
From Eisenhower: From Eisenhower:
5. From Elsenhower:
6.
From Elsenhower:
- 1
shot down. In a B-17 raid on Bizerte five enemy

aircraft were destroyed on the ground; one of our
fighters crashed on its return.
The Allied force along the line west of Tunis-Bizerte
is being steadily reinforced. Eleven German light
tanks were destroyed by the British at the north end
of this line; a French force west of Tunis suffered
25% casualties. The British First Army command post
opened at Jemmapes. A US patrol, visiting the Pasha
at Marrakech, reported that it was well received.
November 22: Enemy reconnaissance aircraft operated
over the entire theater as far west as the Atlantic.
From Mr. Murphy (to State Dept.): Reports the need for a definite
program of economic supply for North Africa, as con sumers' goods are no longer shipped from France.
Action: (State Dept.) notified Murphy that the State Depart ment had been empowered by the President to conduct
civil affairs in North Africa and other reoccupied
areas. Informed Murphy of the staff to be furnished
by the State Dept. and of their program.
US heavy bombers, attacking Tripoli, scored direct
hits on warehouses and on the mole November 21.
Reports a radio announcement that the Dakar author ities have joined the French North Africa Colonies
as members of the United Nations.
Requests authority to activate at Karachi two new
fighter squadrons; the necessary organizational
equipment, cadres, and fillers can be provided
locally. Stilwell approves.
Operations report for November 22: Elements of the
Australian 7th Division entered Gona at noon,
November 22; elsewhere, this division had advanced
four miles north of Soputa. Our 32d Division
oaptured the Cape Endaiadere Area by late afternoon,
November 22 and was within 1500 yds. of Buna. Air
activity for the day centered in the intensive support
of our front line units and on the Lae-Salamaua area;
two towns in Timor were also bombed. Nineteen enemy
planes were believed lost; one B-17 was reported shot
down. A direct hit was obtained on an enemy destroy er in the Buna area.
- 2
8. 9.
From Andrews: From Fitzgerald:
10.
From Bissell;
11.
From MacArthur:
12.
From MacArthur;
Asks whether animals will accompany the infantry

regiment jungle-trained, 75 ma pack howitzer battalion
mountain-trained, and other special units recently
made available to him by the War Dept.
Requests clarification of the status of the 12th and
44th Fighter Squadrons, as he has been advised lay
Harmon of the latter's assumption of the adminis trative control of these units.
13.
From Emmons;
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Requested Eisenhower to clarify the proposed AA command system in UK as

it pertains to our unitswill the operational control be vested in the
Air Defenses of Great Britain?
Advised Eisenhower that weather conditions over the northern ferry route
will necessitate the use of the southern route (via Gambia or Dakar and
Casablanca) for the ferrying of aircraft, other than four-motored bombers,
to the UK. Requested his views concerning the supply of gas and oil and
the condition of the air fields. Informed Fitzgerald, requesting that
he furnish similar information and also obtain permission from the
British to conduct ferrying operations through Gambia.
2.
3. Gen. Lynd and Col. Ferrin are conferring with OPD prior to assuming their
duties on Nimltz1 staff.
U. Replying to Fitzgerald's query, stated that the Liberian defense force
will be sent as plannecf; the sailing date is not yet set.
PLANS
SECTION III.
T. HAND 14
Major General,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 24, 1942.

To: Secretary of War Chief of Sta Deputy Chief Commanding Genera Army Air Forces Commanding General Services of Supply Assistant Chief of Staff G-2 (Return to OPD)
IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED MESSENGER-
SECTION I.

Our weather plane drew antiaircraft fire from Kiska on
November 22. Our heavy bombers at Adak are being re duced due to the decreasing chances for successful
interception of enemy surface forces west of Attu in
time to attack the same day.
Forwards a report from Wimsatt that unidentified air craft were reported over Ivigtut, Greenland, November 20.
On November 22, 76 of our heavy bombers were dispatched
to make a daylight attack on the submarine bade at
Lorient. Because of weather conditions only eleven
B-17's located the target; these dropped 22 tons of
high explosives. All bombers returned.
38 heavy bombers attacked the submarine base at St.
Nazaire, during daylight on November 23, the crews
reporting many hits on the target. 15 of the enemy
aircraft intercepting this mission are claimed destroyed;
four B-17's are missing and one crash-landed.
From Butler:
From Brant: From Spaatz:
From Eaker:
From Spaatz (to CG, AAF): Plans are under way to integrate the Eighth
and Twelfth Air Forces under a theater air force
headquarters. Eaker is the acting commander of the
Eighth Air Force.
From Eisenhower: An attack November 21 by Italian dive-bombers on the
French at the north end of the line west of Bizerte-
Tunis was driven offj German troops were reported to
be withdrawing slightly, November 22. On the night
of November 20-21 Gafsa was threatened from the north
- 1
and east by enemy mechanized patrols; after a temporary

withdrawal French and US troops re-occupied the town
November 22.
The airfield at Bone was dive-bombed November 21, ten
Spitfires being destroyed or damaged; three enemy
fighters were shot down. The same day a Spitfire
squadron arrived in Souk-El-Arba where the airdrome was
attacked by enemy dive-bombers November 22. Allied air planes attacked Bizerte the night of November 22 with
unknown results.
In summarizing operations for the period November 11 to
November 21, Elsenhower reports that approximately an
Allied infantry division is concentrating in the coastal
area eastwards from Bone and an armored brigade in the
area eastwards from Souk-Ahras; forward elements are
holding or supporting the line west of Bizerte-Tunis.
Another report states that a French Algerian division
is concentrating along the Tunisian border; French
troops on this front are operating under Anderson's
command. The British First Army command post was trans ferred from Jemmapes to Constantine November 22.
7. 8. From Eisenhower:
His command post will close at Gibraltar at 0001 Z
November 25, and open at Algiers the same date and hour.
From Eisenhower:
Parian reported on November 23 that the French authorities
at Dakar had informed him of their support and the desire
of French West Africa to join our forces.
From Eisenhower:
Seventy-three members of the 2nd Bn., 503rd Parachute
Regiment, and their aircraft crews, are interned in
Spanish Morocco.
Arrangements have been completed with the British
Admiralty in West Africa governing the identification
of ships approaching Ascension.
9.
10. From Baldwin:
1L
From Fitzgerald:
Replies that the British consent to our using the air fields at Bathurst; reports on the supply of gas and
oil and the condition of the airfields.
(1) Using Kweilin as an advanced base, nine B-25!s
escorted by seven P-4.0's, attacked Haiphong and Hongay
(French Indo-China), November 22; a large passenger
freighter was sunk and another severely damaged. On
November 23, the Japanese raided Kweilin in retaliation.
Our fighters shot down two enemy bombers; wo lost one
fighter.
12. From Bis sell:
- 2
(2) The same day six B-24.'s, using Gaya as a base,

effectively bombed the railroad yards at Mandalay.
13. From MacArthur; Operations report, November 23: The 7th Australian
Division is pressing its attack on a small pocket of
Japanese isolated near Gona and on the Soputa-
Sanananda road. The US 32nd Division is making slow
progress on a front just south of Buna. The Allied
force in Timor is being harassed by Japanese and armed
natives. Our bombers attacked Kavieng, Sanananda, Lae,
also Penefoi and Lautem (Timor). Results were gener ally unobserved although fires were started on Timor.
A Zero, attempting to intercept three B-25's, was shot
down.
Indicates shipping priorities desired for his J+B
75 mm pack howitzers.
From MacArthur:
15* From Harmon (to CG, AAF) : Recommends that his headquarters assume
administrative control of the 5th and 11th Bombardment

Groups since distance and difficulties of communications
render control from Hawaii impracticable.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Advised Stilwell of the support to his theater which can be provided

under present conditions.
Replied to MacArthur that his request concerning naval support has
been referred to the Navy. Adra. King has relayed the text of the
message to Halsey and has directed that certain naval support be
furnished.
2.
SECTION III.
PLANS
. No action reported by JCS or CCS
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
-3
WAR DEPARTMENT

OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 25, 1942.

Chief of St
Deputy Chief of;
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General.*.
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of S
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

The enemy has occupied Kasserine and Sbeitla, 140 and
120 miles southwest of Tunis respectively. Enemy
reconnaissance aircraft were active during November 23.
Forwards a copy of instructions issued by Darlan con cerning exchange and currency. Suggests that rein forcing troops be supplied with French instead of
American money.
He is forwarding a list of personnel shortages existing
in all components and desires that, starting January 1,
25% of the total available shipping space be allotted
to replacements to supply these shortages(for UK only).
Replies that volunteers from the US desiring to serve
under Giraud cannot be accepted at the present time
because of lack of equipment.
Forwards a translation of the Sultan of Morocco's reply
to the Prersident assuring him of friendly cooperation
with our forces.
Six B-25fs and 17 P-40's severely damaged the Tinho
airdrome at Canton, November 23. Seven to ten enemy
aircraft were destroyed on the airdrome and more were
probably destroyed in the hangars; one bomber, hit
while taking off, crashed.
Operations report for November 24. The situation at
Gona is unchanged. US troops on the Soputa-Sanananda
track have reached a position in rear of the Japanese.
A fresh US battalion has been put into the Cape Endai adere front and is slowly advancing.
- 1
From Eisenhower:
2.
From Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower:
4.
From Eisenhower:
5.
From Eisenhower:
6.
From Bissell:
From MacArthur:
tit
Our air force furnished intensive support to the

ground troops, repeatedly attacking the Sanananda
area, Gona, Gona Mission, and Buna. An enemy light
cruiser and four destroyers in the Huon Gulf, moving
toward Buna, were twice attacked by B-17's and B-25's;
two destroyers were sunk and the other ships withdrew
via Vitiaz Strait to the northeast. One destroyer
subsequently attacked was apparently damaged. Our
dive-bombers attacked the airdrome at Dilli. Aerial
reconnaissance of the Buin-Faisi area wes maintained.
Darwin and Port Moresby (twice) were raidedwithout
suffering casualties. One enemy bomber was shot down
at Darwin.
3. From Harmon: Operations summary November 24. Reports on aerial
reconnaissance at Tonolei harbor, adding that one
cargo vessel was on the reef.
P-39fs are supporting our ground forces at Guadalcanal
by attacking enemy concentrations and supplies.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Notified Brett and Pratt that, at Navy request, the air echelon of the
80th Bombardment Squadron and about 10 B-18's, ASV equipped, will be
moved from Miami to Trinidad (as temporary replacement for a British
medium bombardment squadron) for anti-submarine duty beginning December 1.
Informed Brett that orders are being issued assigning Lt. Col. R. T. King,
Jr., AC, as a working member of Adm. Eoover's staff, and explained the
purpose of this assignment.
Asked Eisenhower for details of the Parian - French West Afrioan Agreement,
and suggested proposing to Parian the establishment of a US mission at
Pakar.
Informed Eisenhower that Patton's report on the M-l rifle is in contra diction to results of previous tests, and that a complete report is de sired. If persons qualified to investigate are not available, they can
be furnished from the US.
Inquired of Eisenhower as to his plans for installing Radar equipment for
the detection of aircraft, surface vessels and submarines in his North
African area.
Notified Eisenhower that WAAC units cannot be sent to Oran until certain
legal questions are settled and the situation is more stabilized. The
battalion scheduled Tor England is ready for shipment when transportation
- 2
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
is available and the priority has been assigned by him.

7. Asked Stilwell for explanatory details concerning his request for an air
"base security battalion; is no British assistance possible?
Replied to MacArthurs request for additional amphibian brigades, stating
that the present War Dept. program provides for only three such organiza tions. One is assigned to the European Theater, one is under orders to
move to Australia, and one is being used in this country for training
purposes and to provide cadres should additional brigades eventually be
authorized.
Informed MacArthur of the procedure, approved by CCS, for the assignment
of military equipment for Australia, adding that although the tabling of
any item can be changed from London to Washington, or vice versa, (when
such change has been approved by the Munitions Assignment Board), it is
not desired that an item be tabled in one place when a substitute item
or similar item is tabled in another place.
Notified Emmons that the Navy standard landing craft unit is expected to
be ready for the 27th Division on the island of Hawaii, about December 25
Sent Smmons and Harmon a copy of Navy report on the raid on Makin Island,
for the information of small island garrisons.
8.
9.
10.
11.
SECTION III. 1.
PLANS
JCS tentatively approved Joint Planners1 report, a s amended, pending a

final determination of the merchant shipping program, and directed the
Secretaries to prepare a letter, as amended, to Mr. N.elson on JCS 134/2,
"US War Production Objectives - 1943", for signature of Adm. Leahy.
JCS deferred JCS 154, "Troop Bases for all Services for 1944 and Beyond"
until the next meeting.
JCS informed the War Shipping Administration of the "Allocation to the
Navy Department of three C-2 Type Refrigerated Ships", (JCS 150/1) these
vessels to be made jointly available to Army and Navy under the operational
jurisdiction of JCS.
JCS noted that Gen. Arnold had withdrawn his concurrence contained in
JCS 146/1, "Priorities in Production of Munitions Based on Strategic Con siderations", but agreed that the directive to the Army and Navy Munitions
Board would not be withdrawn pending results of the studies being con ducted by supply representatives of the Army and Navy.
2.
3.
4.
THOS. T. HANDY/
Major General,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 26, 1942.'
To:
Secretary of War Chief of SteSdr^. Deputy Chief of Sta Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General, Services of Supply I' Assistant Chief of Staff A) G-2 (Return to OPD)
SECTION I. 1,

Effective November 26, Fort Randall, Alaska, and
points westward were alerted by Buckner against
possible sea or air attacks.
Five consecutive Axis night air raids on Algiers have
done only slight military damage; but a successful
Axis air raid would have serious consequences, in view
of the number of ships in the harbor and the import ance of the installations and communications there.
Ee has requested, of London, the assignment of night
fighters. Weather has frustrated our attempts to
hit the airfields in Sardinia from which the raiders
apparently operate.
Replies that the Radar and other warning equipment
present in his theater is far below requirements. He
has initiated an investigation of overall requirements
and will report additional information when available.
Reports the need for barrage balloons, anti-ai rcraft
units, night fighters and the necessary control
equipment.
Concurs in War Dept, suggestions Tor handling French
West African negotiations. In conference at Algiers
ho will present the matter of the immediate establish ment of the air route through Senegal.
Following their first two conferences the Russians
proposed that aircraft be delivered to them direct
instead of to our force, in order to economize in
supply,
- 1
From DeWitt:
2.
Frora Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower:
4.
From Eisonhowen
From Adleri
6.
From. Fitzgerald;
Reports the need for intermediate bases between

Bathurst and Casablanca to provide the desired
degree of safety for ferrying twin-engined aircraft
to Northwest Africa.
Operations report for November 25. The 7th Australian
Division (reinforced by U.S. forces) was unable to
advance against Japanese positions in the Gona area.
Additional artillery and infantry units have been
flown in. U. S. troops, reinforced by air with
engineers and additional artillery, have made slight
progress south of Buna.
Lae was repeatedly attacked by our bombers; hits
were scored on a grounded airplane, a building and
the runways. Two towns on Timor were attacked, a
Japanese anti-aircraft position being silenced.
7.
From LiacArthur:
So
From Kenney:
Replies that 6,000 revolvers, caliber .38 with

shoulder holster, are required for his combat crews.
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Eisenhower of reports that French political opportunists are

reaching North Africa and suggested remedial action.
Instructed Fitzgerald to proceed with arrangements to utilize Bathurst,
British Gambia, as a staging field for aircraft moving to North Africa.
Directed AGF and SOS to make available, during 1942 and 1943, certain
service units for New Caledonia, Fiji, Espiritu Santo and Efate.
2.
3.
SECTION III.
PLAITS
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
- 2
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 27, 1942

Chief of Staff , y
Deputy Chief of StavflfW-,
Commanding General, Army Air Forces Commanding General,
Services of Supply
G-2 (Return to OPD)
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

Expects that the reconnaissance of Amchitka, twice
postponed, will be completed about December 5
An enemy cargo vessel in Holtz Bay, Attu, was attacked
by B-26's November 27; the ship was left burning and
sinking.
From DeWitt:
From DeWitt:
From Castner (Alaska): An enemy convoy, believed to consist of a cruiser,

a destroyer, and an undetermined number of transports
carrying a preponderance of engineer troops, has been
reliably reported to be approaching the western
Aleutians.
From Eisenhower: In the late afternoon of November 25 the British First
Army began a general advance on Bizerte-Tunis.
Medjez-el-Bab was captured by the 78th Division; the
Blade force reached a point midway between Mateur and
Tebourba. Detachments of US troops, scattered among
the French units covering the right flank, have had a
stimulating effect on the French morale. By protect ing airfields in the Tebessa-Gafsa area, these units
have made possible the use of our airplanes. A US
parachute battalion is operating in the Sbeitla area.
Tedder, Park and Brereton are working out details of
air operationd designed to make maximum use of avail able air power. On November 26 the RAF destroyed 12
enemy aircraft, with loss of seven Allied planes. US
Army aircraft bombed an enemy airdrome near Tunis on
November 27, probably destroying ten enemy aircraft
on the ground.
5.
From Eisenhower:
Sends translation of Darlan's letter urging Godefroy

to join the French North African forces.
On November 24, six B-25's and 17 P-40's attacked
shipping in the river between Canton and Hongkong, dam aging two freighters. Two P-40fs were lost. On Nov ember 25 five P-40's raided the docks and shipping at
Hangkow.
Operations report for November 26. Of the 7th Austral ian Division, the brigade on the Soputa-Sanananda track,
together with the 3d Bn. 126th US Inf., attacked both
flanks of a Japanese position, gaining a few hundred
yards. The brigade in the Gona area repulsed two enemy
counterattacks. On the south, the 32d US Division,
after intensive air and artillery preparation, advanced
another 300 yards.
On Timor, Allied ground forces repulsed an attack by
200 Japanese and 200 natives. Allied air forces raided
Beco and Novalusa on that island.
Additional Allied air attacks were made on Salamaua
and Buka.
Ineffective Japanese air raids were made on Darwin and
the Buna area.
The Allied air loss for the day was one transport air plane, as against five enemy Zeros shot down.
6.
From Bissell:
From MacArthur:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Eisenhower that the mission to Dakar, being formed in the US,
will proceed by air upon his orders. As a measure of coordination, all
instructions to Smith should be transmitted through the War Dept.
(Eisenhower simultaneously suggested the same procedure).
Notified Eisenhower that, unless he objects, 1000 casuals who have
accumulated at the port of Embarkation will be included in the 25% of
shipping space to be devoted to replacements for UK starting January 1;
the remainder of the space will be filled pursuant to his recent request.
Inquired of Eisenhower if a possible increase of 9,000 men in UGF-3 will
warrant a 5-day delay in the sailing date.
Notified Doolittle that the 17th Group (B-26's) is now at Accra and
ready to depart. Asked his opinion as to whether B-26's should be sent
2.
3.
4.
- 2
s j
via Bathurst-Agadir or via Kano-Colomb-Bechar, in view of their

effective range of 1600 miles and the need for suitable facilities enroute.
5. Notified Stilwell that the War Dept. cannot approve his action in trans ferring the 16th Fighter Sq. to the 23d Gp, and activating two new fighter
sqs. for assignment to the 51st Gp. at Karachi. The YTar Dept. cannot
increase the commitments of planes, personnel or equipment, and Stilwell
is actually short right now.
Asked Mac Arthur if a requirement exists in his theater for one or two
light tank battalions which will be trained and available for overseas
duty late in the spring.
Informed Llac Arthur that 850 mules will be shipped with the-75 mm. Howitzer
Battalion (Pack); other units to move less animals.
Authorized Emmons to transfer administrative control of units transferred
from Central to South Pacific areas, or the reverse, at the time the
personnel is moved.
6.
7.
8.
SECTION III.
PLANS
THOS. T. HANDY, J
Major General,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 28, 1942.
To:
Secretary of War
Chief of Staff-
Deputy Chief of Sta'
Commanding Gener Array Air Force Commanding General,
Services of Supply
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

An unidentified aircraft was reported over Iceland,
November 26,
Replied that the antiaircraft section of headquarters
STO will be organized and will function as prescribed
for an AA section, headquarters, field army. Anti aircraft units not otherwise assigned will be under
the command of the AA officer of his headquarters.
Units used in the defense of installations come under
operational control of the Air Defenses of Great
Britain.
On November 25 our fighters, reconnoitering in the
vicinity of Gabes, attacked enemy armored units.
Late that day the British First Army began a general
advance on Bizerte and Tunis, On November 26, their
78th Division continued its advance towards Tebourba,
Medjez-el-Bab being firmly in Allied possession. A
British armored force, having penetrated to a point
between I^lateur and Tebourba, continues to operate in
open country in that vicinity; it destroyed 33 air planes and Luftwaffe stores at Djedeida, Further
north, British troops raided the enemy east of Djebel
Abiod and, by 1600 November 26, had continued their
advance some ten miles towards Mateur.
On November 26, 12 US bombers dropped 55,000 pounds
of high explosives at Tripoli, obtaining direct hits
on the mole, on a large boat, and caused a motor
vessel to capsize.
From Bone steel:
2.
From Eisenhower
3.
From Eisenhower
4.
From Andrews:
- 1
5 .
From B i s s e l l :
On November 25 seven B-25ts and thirteen P-40's effectively attacked the railroad, barracks and factory area at Sienning, Hupeh Province. On November 26, eight B-25'8 and fourteen P-40's attacked Yochow, with similar success. The same day, nine 3-24*8, using Gaya as a base, bombed the oil refineries at Bangkok, scor ing hits in the powerhouse and gasoline storage areas and on other targets. On November 27, ten B-25's and twenty-three P-40fs attacked Canton; two medium size freighters and numerous lighters were sunk in 7iThampoa Channel, and the docks on the north side of Pearl River set afire. The airdromes at Canton were attacked, most of the exposed aircraft being burned. Twenty enemy aircraft were shot down with no loss to our air forces reported. Operations report for November 27. Gains by our forces on the Soputa-Sanananda track are being consolidated and flank patrols of the US 32d Division have made contact in rear of the main enemy position on the Soputa-Buna track. Our aircraft attacked Lae, Buna and Buna Mission during the day; towns on Timor were also attacked. The enemy, raiding Port Moresby and Darwin, caused no damage. Reports the need for jungle clothing and equipment for
all oombat troops in the South Pacific Area, and
recommends that War Dept. plans be amended accordingly.
6,
From EJacArthur;
7.
From Harmon:
SECTION II.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
1. Asked Brett for his views on proposal of the President of Ecuador that
more airfields be developed by the US in his country.
OPD at request of Requirements Division, SOS, asked Eisenhower for early
information as to the performance of the M5 tanks in North Africa.
3. Informed Eisenhower of the availability of a Signal Battalion, Air Warn ing, and Tour Coast" Artillery Batteries, separate (AA) (AW) and inquired
as to the units they are to displace if shipped on UGF-3.
Repeated to Eiaenhower a message from Childs to State Dept. concerning
flights of US aircrafi over Spanish territory, and discussion with
Orgaz concerning disposition of our troops north of Casablanca.
4.
5. Advised Fitzgerald to await instructions from Eisenhower before landing

aircraft in French territory to aid in the repair of the A-20 which was
forced down. Notified Eisenhower.
- 2
6.
By memo to Adnu Cooke, OPD accepted Navy proposal to change the destina tion of the 25th Division to New Caledonia, the 1st Marine Division to
be moved to Australia and to come under MaoArthur's command.
SECTION III. 1.
PLANS
CCS agreed that all negotiations with the French regarding French Yfest
Africa be undertaken by US representatives, who will contact British West
African officials concerning local facilities desired by the British from
the French.
CCS approved the directive to the Committee of Cipher Experts contained
in CCS 123/1 "Security of Ciphers."
CCS directed the Combined Communications Board to accept "Combined Radio
Telegraph Prooedure" (CCS 119/2) for use, subject to certain modifica tions, the CCB to settle points involved without further reference to CCS.
CCS accepted the recommendations of CCS 126 "Handling of Civil Affairs
Regarding; North Africa."
CCS directed the Combined Planners to study and report on the military
and shipping implications involved in the return of the 9th Australian
and New Zealand Divisions from the Middle East to Australia and New
Zealand.
2.
3.
4.
5.
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 29, 1942.
To:
Secretary of '1'ar Chief of StaJ Deputy Chief of Coirunanding General, Array Air Forces Commanding General, Services of Supply Assistant Chief of
G-2
f\^
IN TURN BY CCMIISSIONED MSSENGER
(Return to OPD) IJESS^GES RECEIVED A K D ACTION

November 28.
Patrols from the Western and Central Task Forces made
contact November 24.. Congestion resulted in the.'bay
at Algiers from the early arrival of K155-3, the dis charge of KMF-3 not having been completed. In a tank
battle, November 25, fifteen eneny tanks were destroyed
as compared to a British loss of five light and tiro
medium tanks, all of which were recovered.
Allied forces took Tebourba November 26. Enemy counter attacks the next day were successfully repulsed, ten
German tanks being destroyed. US air forces, operat ing from Tebessa, bombed Mateur. Allied Beaufirhtcrs
were active over Algiers, claiming the destruction of
four bombers; the enemy showed surprise at being
attacked by this type of aircraft.
Preliminary plans have been arranged with the French
for concerted action in the evnnt of an attack from
Spanish Morocco.
SECTION I. 1.
From Bonesteel:
2.
From Eisenhower:
3.
From Eisenhower;
Replies that qualified personnel is available to in vestigate and report on the Li-1 rifle.
Six B-17's attacked a floating drydock and shipping
off Leros (Dodecanese Islands), November 27. Twelve
tons of bcnbs were dropped and two merchant ships be lieved hit. Bursts were also seen along the jetties
and shore installations and the resulting fire was
visible for 25 miles. All our bombers returned safely.
The same day, US fighter aircraft flew patrol missions.
4.
From Andrews:
- 1
Operations report November 28. The Australian 7th

Division, moving reinforcements to the forward areas,
continued their patrol activities, while the US 32d
Division, advancing slightly in one sector, was chiefly
engaged in reconnaissance. Allied aircraft attacked
the airdromes at Kavieng and Lae, a wrecked cargo
vessel off Buna, the Buna area, and tovms on Timor.
6. From Harmon: On November 24 seven B-17's dropped 14 tons of bombs on
Lambeti village, New Georgia Island, destroying most of
the buildings. Four other B-17's attacked the ware houses and wharf at Munda Point, New Georgia, scoring
hits on their targets. Three B-17's unsuccessfully
attacking an enemy naval force, were intercepted by ten
Japanese planes, two of which were destroyed. On
November 26 five B-17's attacked the Rekata seaplane
base and the next day, seven B-17's bombed the Kahili
airdrome, causing large fires in the dispersal areas.
Forwards the report that Captain Rickenbacker will de part December 1 on his original mission.
7.
From Emmonst
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Informed Eisenhower that 20 specially selected and trained staff officers

will be available about December 15 for task forces, and requested that
he notify " . D P as to his needs.
'/OD Replied to Eisenhower that his immediate needs for barrage balloon
battalions should be obtained from England, in view of the large ship
tonnage required to transport them from the US. US night fighter units
are not available.
Notified L'aciirthur that 600 machine guns, caliber .50, and 400 mounts
will be shipped to his theater about January.
2.
3.
SECTION III.
PLANS
THOS, T. H A N D Y / /
Major General,
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, November 30, 1942

Chief of Staff
Deputy Chief of
Commanding Ge
Army Air Forces C ommanding General,
Services of Supply
Assistant Chief of S'taff,^
G-2 (Return to OPD)
HESSEHGER
SECTION I. 1. From Navy:

Informs all concerned of Baldwin's request that ships
be instructed not to approach Ascension Island until
their identification has been acknowledged.
Requests instructions as to the handling of pay and
pensions of French armed forces which our government has guaranteed.
2.
From Eisenhower
3.
From Eisenhower
During the morning of November 28 the port and airport

at Bone were continuously bombed, one of our destroyers
being damaged. The enemy air effort appears to be re duced but is being operated in large formations.
The general advance continues, our tank losses being
relatively light. Djedeida was captured by the 11th
Brigade on November 28. American armored units are
arriving on the Tunisian border, and American tanks
are being moved by rail from the Western to the Eastern
Force. On November 29, 44 transport airplanes carried
British parachutists from Algiers to Pont du Fahs.
Bizerte airdrome and docks were bombed in daylight by
34 of our B-17's on November 28; ten probably twelve,
enemy aircraft were destroyed but two of our bombers
were shot down by AA fire. British aircraft again
bombed Bizerte that night.
Governor Boisson arrived at Algiers November 29 and in dicated that French T7e3t Africa will cooperate fully
with us.
Eisenhower is having connnunications difficulties; a
storm on the night of November 25-26 caused the
Algiers-Gibraltar and Oran-Algiers cables to be broken.
- 1
4.
From Eisenhower;
Requests a group of four night-fighter squadrons for

the protection of Casablanca, pt. Lyautey, and Oran.
Two additional groups will probably be needed for the
protection of the striking force airdromes.
A Russian operations map of the Caucasus area disclosed
many airdromes suitable for the use of heavy bombard ment aircraft in the Baku-Batoum area and north of the
mountains. Suggests that if our cooperation is
restricted to the transfer of airplanes, authority be
reserved to use such fields to attack targets of mutual
interest.
Is sending his acting Theater Signal Officer to Wash ington for conference on the theater signal plan, but
requests that proposed signal units be made available
for January shipment without awaiting him.
Operations summary for November 29. The 7th Australian
Division attacked strongly held enemy positions in the
Gona area, making material progress with the assist ance of an effective aerial and artillery preparation.
Other Allied air attacks were made on Lae airdrome and
on four destroyers in Vitiaz Strait, of which two,
possibly three, were hit. Vfe lost one light and one
medium bomber.
On Timor there have recently been several clashes with
Jap patrols and disloyal natives.
Ineffective enemy air raids on Milne Bay, Portlock Har bor, and Darwin resulted in the destruction of one
Japanese fighter by AA fire.
5.
From Adler:
6.
From Stilwell:
7.
From Mac Arthur:
8.
From Harmon:
Halsey has inquired as to the availability of the 25th

Division in order to prepare for its reception in case
it is made available. The division can be effectively
employed in furtherance of the Solomons operations.
(to SOS): Expects to assume the logistioal responsib- y
ility for Guadalcanal early in January. Requisitions
a list of service units to organize a Service Command
in Guadalcanal and a Service Command and advance depot
in Espiritu Santo.
Requests approval of the establishment of the Army Air
Force, South Pacific Area, to be charged with the super vision of all Army air activities in his area and co ordination with Adm. Fitch. Gen. Twining would command
this organization.
- 2
9.
From Harmon:
10.
From Harmon:
SECTION II. 1.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
Requested Eisenhower's views on a tentative Navy proposal to establish a

Mediterranean Amphibious Force, eventually to consist of the necessary
headquarters and such ships and landing craft as may be assigned to the
North African area. This force is to provide the theater commander with
the facilities to move amphibiously trained Army units for further opera tions in the Mediterranean.
Notified Eisenhower of the air defense units and equipment available in
the US. Requested that the War Dept. be informed as to the priorities in
which they are needed, and as to the troops, equipment and supplies, al ready designated for shipment, over which they should take precedence.
Recommended that the 12th Fighter Command under Brig. Gen. J. K. Cannon
assume responsibility for the air defense of the North African area.
Offered to send to Eisenhower immediately Gen. Saville and five other
officers to assist in making air defense plans of vital installations.
Inquired of MacArthur as to his immediate needs for officer filler replace ments. (His officer candidates school has not been operating long enough
to meet his probable needs, and he has indicated that his units are operat ing at lCVo below T / O strength.)
a. Notified Emmons that the destination of the 25th Division is changed
to Noumea.
b. Notified llacArthur that a joint directive to be sent through Navy
communications channels provides that the 25th Division will go to the
South Pacific Area, and the 1st marine Division to the Southwest Pacific
Area where it will refit and form part of the amphibious force under
LlacArthur s command.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Extended to Harmon the authority granted Emmons to transfer records aid

administrative control of units shifted between the Central and South
Pacific Areas.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No approved action by CCS or JCS
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General,
Mv';iv>w-;... .
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, To: Secretary of War . i \JJ

Chief of Staff M
Deputy Chief of $taM&4"
Commanding General, ^ Army Air Forces pd ^ Commanding General, . \
Services of Supply j
G-2 (Return to OPD)
December 1, 1942
MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.

On November 29 the British First Army maintained
its pressure although its advance was retarded by
heavy low-flying aircraft attacks, particularly in
the vicinity of Djedeida. The enemy continues to
hold the area to about 17 miles west and southwest
of Tunis. On November 29 fourteen B-17 T s attacked
the dock at Bizerte as did British bombers from
Malta which used both bombs and magnetic mines.
The enemy bombed Blida (Algiers) causing slight
damage. Four enemy aircraft and one of ours were
reported destroyed during the day.
Asks that the air warning battalion and four coast
artillery batteries (AA)(AW) offered to him be shipped
on UGF-3 to Oran and included in the 9,000 extra
capacity for which the sailing date has been delayed.
Replies that to date the M-5 tanks have functioned
excellently. Air temperatures have not been high
enough to test the cooling system, and major main tenance problems have not yet developed.
Replied to War Department query that Edd: and his
staff should arrive after UGF-4..
Requests that the 116 medium tanks MÂl, reserved
for 2nd Armored Division, be shipped in the earliest
practicable convoy, in addition to the tanks now
issued to that Division.
One RAF and two US attacks were made on Tripoli on
November 2 8 and 29; 84 tons of explosives were dropped
on the harbor, hits being scored on three vessels and
From Eisenhower;
2.
From Eisenhower;
3.
From Eisenhower;
4.. From Patton: 5. From Patton:
. From Andrews .
- 1
on the electric power plant and moles. All our

aircraft returned despite heavy and accurate anti aircraft fire and enemy interceptions.
7. From Bissell:
On November 28, four medium bombers escorted by six
fighter planes, operating from Kweilin, attacked
Hongay and Cum Pha, French Indo-Chint. Demolitions
and incendiaries were dropped scoring hits on a power
station, coal storage area and warehouses. The
fighter aircraft attacked the docks and shipping
from low altitude, sinking a ferry boat.
Operations report for November 30. Slow progress was
made by all Allied ground troops in the Buna ares;
elements have reached the village. Intensive aerial
support was given to these operations; seven (probably
ten) enemy airplanes were shot down with a loss of
three P-.40's and one transport.
Other Allied air attacks were made on Faisi and on the
Lae airdrome. Ineffective air attacks were made on
Port Moresby and on two Allied corvettes en route to
Timor. One Beaufighter protecting the corvettes was
shot down.
9. From MacArthur:
Requests two troop carrier groups, of three squadrons
each. His air transport situation is serious, the
campaign in New Guinea being entirely supported and
supplied by air.
Replies that requirements exist in his theater for
the use of two tank battalions (Light).
Reconnaissance missions were flown by B-17's from
Espiritu Santo and from Guadalcanal on November 30.
Two Zeros were shot down west of Choiseul Island.
The 3rd (and last) Battalion, I82d Infantry, part of
the Americal Division, will move from Espiritu Santo
to Guadalcanal on or about December 1.
8.
From MacArthur;
10.
From MacArthur:
11.
From Harmon:
12.
From Harmon;
SECTION
II.
OTHER ACTION TAKEN
1.
Replied to Brett approving his recommendations for the reorganization

of the 158th Infantry, the return to the US of the 5th Infantry at
reduced strength as a cadre, and the transfer of the 65th Infantry
from Puerto Rico to Panama.
- 2
2. .Notified Adler that decisions as to the future work of his mission

rest with Air Marshal Drummond, and cautioned him to prevent the
injection into his discussions of subjects beyond the scope of his
directive.
3. Informed State Department, through SGS, that the War Department believes
that the Office of the Military Attache in Cairo should be maintained;
the scope of its duties during the war will depend upon the extent to
which the collection of military intelligence is placed under Andrews'
control. For the moment its organization will remain unchanged.
J+. Replied to Harmon that instructions concerning the shipping destination

of the 25th Division will reech him by a joint directive through Halsey.
SECTION III.
PLANS
No reported action by JCS or CCS.
THOS. T. HANDY,
Major General, ,
--.1,
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 2, 1942.

To: Secretary of War Chief of ( Deputy Chief Commanding Army Air Forces $1 Commanding Generairj-KrrV Services of Supply jW Assistant Chief of Staff, G-2 ( R e t u r n t o OPD)
IN TURK BY COi MISSIONED MESSENGER .
SECTION I. 1.

Replies to a telephoned inquiry by OPD that the
return of the native population to St. Paul Island,
Pribilofs, is not feasible. All available housing
is now being used by the garrison, and insufficient
shipping is available to provide housing for the
troops and necessary supplies for the native popula tion. (The question was raised by the Interior
Dept.)
Replies approving War Dept. plan for shipping casuals
(over 1000) who have accumulated at the port of em barkation.
The 36th Brigade is reorganizing after an unsuccess ful attack on the commanding ground north of Station
de Jefna on November 30. The 11th Brigade is main taining contact with the enemy at Djedeida which
has not yet been completely captured. The "Blade"
armored force, originally the spearhead of the ad vance, is now in reserve and providing offensive
patrols. Other British troops are operating
offensively north of the line Oudna-Massicault.
Well-coordinated air support enabled the enemy ground
elements to offer stilt resistance to Allied assaults,
US Combat Command n B" is concentrating in the area
south of Medjez-el-BabBeja.
On November 30 an attack on the docks and shipping
at Bizerte by our B-17s left one ship burning. The
enemy air force attacked Bone in the afternoon.
From DeWitt:
2,
From Eisenhower
3, From Eisenhower:
- 1
Frora Eisenhower:
Requests information as to the number of troops in Convoy UGF-3 acsirned to the ./estem and Central Task Forces. A direct radio channel is now operating between Algiers and Washington. Inquires if the defense force intended for Liberia will be diverted or decreased in view of the change in the military situation in VJest Africa, adding that building materials for Roberts Field, now being unloaded, might be used for immediate construction at Dakar. (1) Six B2/v's successfully attacked the docks and shipping at Ran croon, November 29; one heavy bomber is missing. The same night, other B-24's attacking Fort Blair, Andaman Islands, scored a hit on a naval auxiliary boat. (2) On December 1 twelve P-AO's bombed and. machinegunned Ilaingkwan, Burma, causing heavy destruction.
5 6.
From Eisenhoweri From Fitzgerald:
7.
From R i s s e l l :
8. From Harmon:
(1) Five B-17's attacked two enemy freighters and two destroyers on November 28; one freighter was left stationary and smoking. Three out of ten Japanese pursuit aircraft attempting to intercept our bombers were shot down. (2) Aerial photographs of the Buin-Faisi area, taken November 30, failed to disclose any enemy aircraft carriers.
SECTION II. 1,
OTHER ACTION TAIfEN
Authorized Eisenhower to activate Fifth Army Headquarters with CJark

as Army Commander.
Replied informing MacArthur that the air echelon of the first squadron,
317th Troop Carrier Group (four squadrons), will probably leave the
west coast for his theater within the next two weeks, remaining units
to follow as rapidly as possible. No glider personnel or equipment
will be included in this movement.
2.
- 2
3.
Asked ..[acArthur, in view of current shipments to his theater of special

types oi' shoulder weapons and of the critical need for rifles in other
theaters, if the return of an equivalent number of standard rifles
from the UA'PA (less maintenance reserve) would be possible.
SECTION III. 1.
PLANS
JCS referred JCS 154, "Troop Bases for all Services for 1944 and Beyond"
to The Joint Strategic Survey Committee who will provide the Joint
Planners with a revised strategic concept to form the basis for the
revision of the study.
JCS approved a draft of a letter on JCS 138/2, "Security of Ciphers"
to all non-military agencies of the government inviting them to submit
their codes and ciphers to the Joint Communications Board for examina tion and advice regarding their security.
JCS retained JCS 16-16/1-16/2, "United Nations Action in Case of 77 ar
Between Russia and Japan" on the agenda pending receipt of a study being
prepared by the Joint Planners.
JCS removed from the agenda: JCS 48, "Defense of Island Bases Along
the Lines of Communication between Hawaii and Australia", JCS 96-96/1 96/2, "Japanese Intentions in the Pacific Theater", and JCS 117, "Es corts for Convoys".
JCS directed the Secretariat to draft a reply informing the Maritime
Commission and the War Shipping Administration of the contemplated use
of Navy tank carriers.
2.
3.
4.
5.
/
THOS. T. HANDY, ^
Major General,
- 3
WAR DEPARTMENT
OPERATIONS DIVISION
WASHINGTON
1700, December 3, 1942

To: Secretary of ' ^ Chief of Staff Deputy Chief of Commanding General, * Army Air Forces . j{* C ommand ing Ge ne r a1>. i Services of Supply ft Assistant Chief of Staff, V G-2 ( R e t u r n t o OPD)
IN TURK BY COtMISSIOHED MESSENGER
SECTION I. 1.
iffiSSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Eneiny air raids on Bone, November 29 and 30, were
ineffective against our shipping. On November 30 our
aircraft attacked the airfield, barracks, and rail road yards at Gabes as well as El Aouina airport and
town.
On December 1, near Tebourba and Chouigui, Allied
forces repulsed strong counterattacks which were
supported by effective dive-bombing in spite of our
repeated bombing of the enemy airfields near Tunis.
The "Blade" force suffered some tank casualties, was
withdrawn, and was replaced by the US Combat Command
"8" which cleared the area of enemy tanks. Our
P-33's set several enemy tanks afire at Djedeida.
Enemy patrols were reoccupying Depienne and Pont du
Fahs.
From Eisenhower:
2.
From MacArthur
(1) Operations report for December 1. The Australian

7th Division has isolated the enemy at Gona in a
small area on the beach. The US 32d Division is re organizing, and has advanced slightly at Buna.
During the night December 1-2 four Japanese destroyers
reached the vicinity of Buna and Gona for a short
time. In seven attacks against these ships, which
withdrew, our bombers were intercepted by between 60
and 80 enemy airplanes. Of these, 21 (probably 25)
were shot down with a loss of two of our bombers.
Kahili airdrome was bombed and one enemy fighter
destroyed on the runway.
(2) Operations report for December 2. The Austral ians, against light opposition, moved one battalion
- 1
some five miles eastward along the coast from Cona.

US forces, attacking from the south and east, i ;ade
some progress against oneuiy positions at Buna.
Allied bombers and fighters maintained their support
of these attacks. They also attacked tvo enemy
cruisers off Beco (Timor) and an enemy concentration
of bombers ana fighters at the penefoi airdrome where
five airplanes were set on fire.
S3CTI01J II. 1.
OTHEIt ACTK;i-T TAI1Z1-.
Replied informing Eisenhower of the number of troops loading on UGF-3

for the Central and .Western Task forces.
Replied to Fitzgerald that the present plans with respect to Liberia
are unchanged.
Informed Stilwell, Bissell, and Wheeler that applications for flying
training in officer grade will be submitted through Stilwell, together
with specific recommendations, to the CG, AAF, V.'ashington. The require ments for aviation cadet training for enlisted personnel are being for warded by air mail, but only a limited number of applicants for this
type of training will be accepted and no civilians will be considered.
2.
3.
SECTIOK III.
PLAIIS
l]o approved action by JCS or CCS.
THOS. T. H N Y A D , liiajor General, A s s i s t a n t Chief of Staff.
- 2

WWII AAF Operations Nov 1942

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WWII AAF Operations Nov 1942

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DIARY

1700, November 1> 1942

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

(1) Six P-40!s used as fighter-bombers, and escorted

misses on a light cruiser and a possible aircraft

1. Replied to MacArthur that a night fighter squadron is not available for

No approved action by JCS or CCS

1700, November 2, 1942

MESSAGES RECEIVED AflD ACTION TAKEN

Recommends, with Halsey*s concurrence, that Lincoln be

OTHER /CTION TAKEN

Informed Stilvrell of Wavell's report to British Chiefs of Staff relative

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

1700, November 3, 1942.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

1. From Bonesteel; A Dornier airplane was observed over Seydisfjordur,

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

2. Explained to Emmons that the purpose in placing qualified Army officer on

No action reported by JCS or CCS.

1700, November 4 , 1942

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED MESSENGER

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

Operations report for November 2. Kokoda was occupied

Allied reconnaissances indicated that the shipping in the

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Informed MacArthur of the items removed from the SS Cussetta by Harmon.

JCS noted State Dept. approval of British recommendations with regard

1700, November 5, 1942,

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

From Bonesteel: From Maxwell;

From Mac Arthur;

Operations summaries for November 3 and 4 consist of

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

Directed SOS to prepare a draft of the revised War Department policy on

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

1700, November 6,"

MESSAGE? RECEIVED ANP ACTION TAKEN

From Bonesteel: From Brereton:

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

B-25 Delivered to Fairbanks En route in Canada At departure point 12 1

No action reported by JCS or CCS.

1700, November 7, 1942.

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

From Eisenhower; Reports on the last reconnaissance of Greenland, completed

F1*001 Mac Arthur;

Operations summary for November 5. Fighting in the

Aerial reconnaissances, November 6, disclosed the

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

CCS directed the Combined Staff Planners to submit a brief statement on

THOS. T. HANDY, /..y , r _

1700, November 8, 1942

IN TURN BY COMMISSIONED . MESSENGER

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

From Castner: From

3. From Eisenhower; Landings have been effected on all three beaches at

forces are also present.

OTHER ACTION TAKEN

1. Authorized Eisenhower to empower Patton, Fredendall, Ryder, and Doolittle

No approved action by JCS or CCS.

1700, November 9, 19A2

MESSAGES RECEIVED AND ACTION TAKEN

From Eisenhower: Reports the recognition of Giraud as leader of the

OTHER ACTION TAKEN