Dailies of the 323rd - the 91st Bomb Group!

them later on when it is real combat. Personnel such realize the
value of time spent on a practice mission once they come in
contact with the enemy.
On the 24th, nine of our crews were briefed and took off on a
mission to Frankfurt, Germany. Ships and crews were: #759, Capt.
Thompson and crew; #712, Lt. Ward and crew; #040 Lt. Gorby and
crew; #815, Capt. Dalton and crew; #759, Lt. Bradford and crew;
#985, Lt. Hackleman and crew. For some reason, known only to
higher headquarters, the mission was recalled after the ships had
reached enemy territory. On their return, they were unable to
land due to weather conditions so they went to a distant field
for their landing. No ships were lost on this occasion. For
several days it was hoped credit would be allowed for this, but
no sortie credit was given.
25 - 28 Jan. 1944: During the four days between the 24th and the
29th, ground school and training activities were engaged in.
Local formation flying was prominent as part of the training of
aircrews. Ground school was well attended, however, flying is
given preference in training of crews. Practice in the air is of
the greatest importance. Crewmembers had a lot of training in
handling their equipment. Keeping their guns in good condition,
adjusting their oxygen equipment, and learning how to keep them
warm at high altitude. On the 27th there was a feature event for
the squadron. A formation was held of both ground and flying
personnel to partake in the ceremony of awarding the Air Medals
and Oak Leaf Clusters to same that had been earned by individuals
in the squadron. This had been done in the group, before. Doing
it in the squadron seemed to add more spirit to the organization.
All personnel liked to see the boys get their awards for work
well done. Major Berry presented the award to each person cited
in the general orders in the presence of the whole squadron.
Also, he expressed his intention as squadron commander of
continuing to carry on and adding to the record made in the past.
29 Jan. 1944: On January 29, Frankfurt, Germany, was the target
for bombers of the 8th Air Force. That day, twelve of our crews
and twelve of our ships took part in this mission. It was made
possible because of the recent increase in strength of the
squadron as well as the absence of so many losses as we have had
in the past. Following is the list of crews and ships taking
part: Ship's #774, Capt. Thompson and crew; #739, Lt. Gorby and
crew; #712, Lt. Ward and crew; #815, Capt. Dalton and crew; #939,
Lt. Maziarz and crew; #761, Lt. James and crew; #172, Lt.
Samuelson and crew; #965, Lt. Hackleman and crew; #758, Lt.
Bradford and crew; # 040, Lt. Register and crew; #639, Lt.
Harding and crew; and #746, Lt. Kolts and crew. Considerable