Us Official Photographs

Attack on Simpson Harbor

DEPLOYMENT OF FORCES: The strategy of the attack on November 2nd against shipping in Simpson Harbor and township installations is depicted in the above diagram. Numeral 0 indicates the two squadrons assigned to the fighter sweep of the harbor three minutes before the bombardment began. The 80th Squadron of the 8th Fighter Group and the 39th Squadron of the 35th Fighter Group were the units engaged. Numeral 1 indicates the fighters and bombers assigned to neutralize shore anti-aircraft positions by smoke, strafing fire, and bombs. This force also attacked Lakunai airdrome. Four squadrons of the 345th Bombardment Group were elements participating in the attack, while the 431st and 432nd Squadrons of the 475th Fighter Group provided close cover. Numeral 2 indicates the 90th and 13th squadrons of the 3rd Attack Group, assigned to lead the assault against Simpson Harbor shipping. The 9th Fighter Squadron of the 49th Fighter Group provided close cover. As a diversionary move, these squadrons separated to withdraw from the target area. Numeral 3 indicates the 71st and 405th squadrons of the 38th Bombardment Group and the 8th squadron of the 3rd Attack Group. This force attacked Simpson Harbor approximately four minutes after the two leading elements had completed their mission. The 433rd Squadron of the 475th Fighter Group gave close cover to this force. Following the escape of the bombers, fighter forces converged over Vunakanau airdrome and St. George's Channel to cover the homeward-bound bombers from further attacks by the enemy intercepting formations.