TARGET: MARSHALLING YARDS
BINGEN, GERMANY
29 DECEMBER, 1944

The target was the marshalling yards at Bingen, approximately fifty miles west of Frankfurt. Major Leon Stann led the formation of thirty-six planes. Wing assembly was effected without difficulty. The Group was on time, at proper altitude, in proper position, second in Division formation.

On the route over enemy territory, the Group was south of course, in order to remain in Division formation. The interval between the preceding Groups and the 457th was approximately three minutes instead of two as briefed, as the Group ahead was climbing too fast. The interval was sufficiently closed before reaching the IP.

The Group bombed in squadron formation, each squadron performing its own sighting operation. The IP was crossed south of course. Cloud coverage varied from four to five-tenths; the general target area was clear. The MPI was identified all squadrons about two minutes before the BRL. Some smoke from previous groups’ bombs obscured visibility. Bombs were dropped from 22,000 feet. Bombing results were observed to be very good.

Flak was moderate but fairly accurate, several planes sustaining damage.

As the formation was leaving the target to rally for the return trip to England, the lead aircraft was hit by antiaircraft fire. The interior of the plane was extensively damaged and a fire was started between the cockpit and the radio room. The craft left the formation and Major Stann ordered the crew to stand by to jump while he fought desperately to bring the fire under control. Successful in his efforts and with the pilot wounded, he took control of the craft, disregarded painful bums on his hands, flew the craft back to England, to make a successful landing.
For his gallantry in action, Major Stann was awarded the Silver Star.

(Compiler’s note: For Tom Goffs account of the mission, see Chapter 19).