TARGET: BENZOL REFINERIES
BOTTROP, GERMANY
8 MARCH, 1945

The Benzol refineries at Bottrop were the primary targets. Originally it was estimated by Allied intelligence that there were twenty of these plants. The Group comprised the 94th B Combat Wing with Major Peresich as Air Commander.

After forming, the Group went left of course in order to assemble in Wing formation. Deviations to the left of course, after joining the Wing, were necessary in order to remain in Wing formation. The Group, fifth in Division formation, was in proper position and at proper interval.

Division assembly line was flown on course, and course to the target was flown approximately as briefed. No difficulties were encountered. The IP was reached on course, but slightly behind schedule, because winds were other than briefed. Cloud coverage at the primary target was ten tenths. A G-H run was made on this target in Group formation, with the lead squadron performing the sighting operation. Bombs were dropped from 25,200 feet. Bomb results were unobserved due to clouds.

Antiaircraft fire was light and no aircraft sustained damage.