Three pages of Ocean News
Title
Three pages of Ocean News
Description
Paper published on an American ship in September 1943.
Date
1943-09
Temporal Coverage
Language
Type
Format
Three printed pages
Publisher
Rights
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Contributor
Identifier
NJolliffeFSW170918-010001, NJolliffeFSW170918-010002, NJolliffeFSW170918-010003
Transcription
OCEAN NEWS
[Censor: S./L.A.S. TURNBULL, Ship's Security Officer] [Price: Two Cents]
[italics] On the Italian Front: [/italics]
RELENTLESS STRUGGLE STILL CONTINUES
Fifth Army Through Crisis
GERMANS WITHDRAWAL FROM SALIENT INDICATED
According to the latest reports there is still unrelenting and bloody fighting going on all along the front near Salerno, to the south of Naples. The Allied Fifth Army has, however, passed through its crisis. It had to yield ground and struggle desperately to keep its line intact, but the bridgehead still stands.
For the first time since the landing, the Germans failed to make a substantial counter-attack for the 24-hour period and gave indication that they are making a limited withdrawal from the salient which they drove into the Allied bridgehead on Tuesday morning.
The army took advantage of the quiet to reorganise and reinforce the lines protecting the bridgehead.
NAVY & AIR FORCE SUPPORT
New units and equipment rolled up the beach road to relieve the formations, some of which have been fighting for six days. In spite of sporadic air raids on the beach heavy equipment has been landed in lavish quantities.
POSITION MORE FAVOURABLE
The Allied communique states that naval and air support are playing a great part in the struggle and the Fifth Army's position is becoming more favourable day by day.
The Allies chief drawback is the lack of good artillery positions to compare with the enemy positions in the hills all around. This deficiency is being made good as much as can be by employing the guns of the fleet, including such battleships as the "Valiant" and "Warspite," and by air bombing, but they do not make up for the disadvantages in which our land gunners are still placed.
EIGHTH ARMY ADVANCING
Fifty miles of rough country still lie between the Eighth Army and the Salerno battlefield. Moreover, it is expected that the Germans, who have strong forces available, will do what they can to hinder and prevent the junction of the two armies.
So far the Eighth Army's advance has been virtually unopposed. After capturing Belvedere they went on, yesterday, to take the town of Scalea and its two airfields, and are now approaching Sapri.
SCALEA AIRFIELDS TAKEN
The capture of Scalea gives the Eighth Army an emergency landing ground only 50 miles from the Gulf of Salerno. Fighters at present operating in the beach-head area have been coming from aircraft carriers or have been equipped with long-range fuel tanks to carry them from the aerodromes which have been put into operation in the Calabrian Peninsula.
1200 TONS OF BOMBS DROPPED
For the second day in succession, North-West African based air forces beat their own record by making well over 2000 sorties. These were made by all types of bombers and fighters and over 1200 tons of bombs were dropped on the enemy where he was attacking our bridgehead. Most of these air attacks were centred in the Abili area, about ten miles inland.
The Allied air forces are estimated to have dropped 86 bombs per square mile on enemy concentrations.
In the east, the British Fifth Corps have established themselves firmly in in [sic] Taranto and Brindisi, and are holding everything east of a line from Taranto to Bari.
They have established airfields, bases and ports in the extreme south and their grip on Italy south of Naples is tightening.
U.S. AIR FORCE OVER POTENZA
A Middle-East communique states Liberators of the Ninth U.S.A.A.F. bombed the marshalling yards at Potenza in southern Italy, scoring direct hits on railway bridges.
MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF ANOTHER ITALIAN GENERAL
Another big Axis figure has died mysteriously – General Hugo Cavallero, former Italian Chief of Staff. The German Radio gave out that he committed suicide after his release from imprisonment following the Italian surrender, because he could not face the shameful treachery of Italy.
U.S. SHIPYARDS OUTPUT
On Tuesday, nine more cargo vessels were launched in U.S. shipyards. This made a total of 1227 built this year and was the 2000th ship delivered since America entered the war.
Eleven Italian warships arrived at Alexandra, escorted by British warships, from Malta.
FURTHER SOVIET SUCCESSES
ENEMY ROUTED AFTER COUNTER-ATTACKS
As a result of the Soviet victory at Nezhin, the Germans have lost the last main railway on the left bank of the Dnieper. This town is an important rail and communication centre and the key to Kiev, being only 72 miles north-east of the Ukrainian capital. 3000 Germans were killed there and many prisoners taken.
Unconfirmed reports describe the Russians as already fighting on the outskirts of Kiev.
In the south the Germans tried to check the vigorous advance towards Zaporozhie and Melitopol, but their counter-attacks ended in the rout of many infantry and tank units and 2000 Germans killed.
In the Pavlograd area, in central Ukraine, the Germans fell back to fortified places, where they are stubbornly resisting but the Soviets are penetrating the enemy's rear and disorganising his defence.
The Germans are bringing up reinforcements to stem the drive but our Allies are forging steadily ahead.
GENERAL ACTIVITY IN THE SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC
In New Guinea Allied troops are continuing their pincer movement towards Lae.
General MacArthur's head-quarters states that the north-western forces captured centres of resistance yesterday and are pushing down the valley.
The Australians in the north-east continued their advance and are now only two miles from the town.
Allied air forces are actively supporting the ground troops and continue to attack bases further afield.
So far, it is reported that 300 Japanese have been killed or wounded in this operation.
The usual air activity took place and attacks made on Japanese areas in the Solomons, the Bismarck Archipeligo [sic], New Guinea and the Dutch Islands to the west of New Guinea.
A statement on the war in the Solomons, put out by the Japanese Imperial head-quarters, says that the situation there continued to be grim.
Beaufighters in Action over Burma
The India communique states: "Continuing their attacks on road, river and railway communications in Burma, R.A.F. Beaufighters again carried out offensive patrols in difficult weather.
Along the Irrawaddy and Chidwin rivers, oil tanks at Yenagyt and the landing stage at Monywa were heavily attacked, and many river craft including sampans damaged.
Over 30 sampans at Ramree island were sunk or damaged, and damage was caused to the jetty at Kyaukpu.
None of our aircraft is missing.
BRITISH BOMBERS OVER OCCUPIED EUROPE
U.S. Eighth Air Force Attack Aircraft Plants
Bombers from Britain were out over occupied Europe last night. The Air Ministry and U.S. H.Q. announce "the U.S. Eighth Air Force Flying Fortresses attacked the Hispano-Suiza and the Caudron-Renault aircraft plants and C.A.M. ball-bearing works on Wednesday. The targets which are all in the Paris area were bombed with good results.
Sixteen Enemy Fighters Destroyed.
Fortresses also attacked the airfield at Romilly, 60 miles south-east of Paris, and Liberators attacked other airfields in France. Allied fighters escorted and supported the heavy bombers which destroyed 16 enemy fighters.
Escorted and supported by R.A.F., Dominion and Allied fighters, U.S. Marauders attacked the airfield at Merville, 40 miles south-east of Calais, and R.A.F. Mitchells the airfield at Bryas-Sud. From these operations six heavy bombers and three fighters are missing."
Repairing Depots Hit.
C.A.M. stands for Compagnie d'Applications Mechaniques. Fighters are repaired and overhauled at the Hispano-Suiza plant and the Caudron Renault repairs Me.109s.
Romilly is one of the most important bases still available to enemy fighters in the west. This was the first time in the west that Fortresses and Liberators in force attacked at dusk and landed at night.
The Air Ministry announced later that a heavy attack was also made on an important rubber factory at Montlucon, north-west of Vichy.
First reports from the air crews describe the raid as effective and damage heavy, but the thick cloud over the target area prevented accurate observation.
This factory mainly produced synthetic rubber, and the greater part of the output went back direct to the Reich.
Bomber Command Visits Berlin
Bomber Command also sent planes to attack targets in Berlin and other points in north-west Germany.
Fighter Command Intruders attacked road and rail transport in France and the Low Countries.
Eight bombers and two fighters were lost from the above operations.
Enemy Planes Over England
The Germans sent 15 bombers over England last night, three of which were shot down over the south-east coast and one over France. They entered by the south-east and headed for London.
One or two got through and the air-raid alarm lasted about one hour.
Some Casualties Reported.
Heavy gunfire was heard and bombs were dropped in the London area, as well as on two towns on the south-east coast. Some damage and a small nnmber [sic] of casualties have been reported.
[page break]
OCEAN NEWS
[Censor: S./L.A.S. TURNBULL, Ship's Security Officer] [Price: Two Cents]
[italics] On the Italia Front: [/italics]
FIERCE BATTLE RAGING SOUTH OF NAPLES
HUGE LAND AND AIR FORCES ON 25-MILE FRONT
Allied Fifth Army in Terrific Conflict
Near Salerno, to the south of Naples, British, American and German troops are locked together in a tremendous struggle.
Huge land and air forces are being thrown against our men by the enemy all along the 25-mile bridgehead. Many of the German crack troops are in this sector – the Hermann Goering Division and the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Panzer Divisions.
The Allied Fifth Army is smashing again and again at enemy strongpoints and troop concentrations.
Many heavy guns are in action and some of our big tanks have been landed, but it is not yet known whether these tanks have been in battle.
The Germans gained some-ground in this sector yesterday, but a battle of such intensity is bound to swing backwards and forwards all the time.
The enemy have the advantage over our troops here as they are holding a high ridge of ground and, consequently, have the whole battle ground constantly in view; they can see and prepare against each of our new offensives as it is formed.
The Germans also have the advantage in that their airfields are closer to the front lines than our own. At one time yesterday, 120 German fighters were in the air over our bridgehead. Our fighters, however, sailed into them from dawn to dusk and destroyed more than four times the number of our own aircraft which were lost.
The losses on both sides in this terrific battle are likely to be heavy.
[italics] Another Port Captured [/italics]
In the south-east of Italy British forces, driving up the coast from Brindisi, have now reached and occupied Bari.
Bari ranks next to Naples in importance as a port in Southern Italy.
The British drive up the west coast has now taken Cosenza and our forces are approximately one-third of the distance to Naples from their initial landing at Reggio.
The Allies are now arriving in Italy in great numbers and are proving themselves masters of the seas and skies. General Eisenhower has under his command huge forces in Africa and Sicily, and the eventual outcome of this conflict cannot be doubted.
[italics] Surrender of Italian Fleet [/italics]
The Italian Fleet is scrupulously honouring the engagement entered into by the Italian Government upon surrender.
Sixty-eight of the larger units of the Italian Fleet are now either in Allied ports or are en route.
This figure includes five battleships, six cruisers and 27 destroyers, in addition to submarines and the smaller combat craft.
ROYAL NAVY IN ACTION OFF DUTCH COAST
A naval skirmish off Holland described in an Admiralty communique stating "while on patrol off the coast of Holland, near Ijmuiden last night, light coastal forces under the command of Lt. J. C. Trelawny, D.S.C. encountered a group of enemy patrol vessels.
TORPEDO HIT OBSERVED.
H.M. ships thrust home their attack to close range in the face of rapid fire from the enemy, and a torpedo hit was observed on one of the patrol ships.
Two other hits were possibly scored on the enemy force, but in the darkness it was impossible to observe the full results of the attack. All H.M.ships returned safely to harbour, having suffered no damage. One rating was slightly wounded.”
2 ITALIAN SHIPS SCUTTLED
According to the Japanese Domei news agency, two Italian vessels in Japanese-held waters were scuttled by their crews when the Japanese attempted to take possession. They were the liner [italics] Conti Verde [/italics] and the gunboat [italics] Laconta. [/italics]
The R.A.F. again raided troop positions in the Arakan district of Burma yesterday. Beaufighters made several sweeps up the Irriwaddy River, sinking many river craft and supply barges.
In the new loan drive in the U.S. two and one quarter thousand million dollars has been subscribed in the first five days.
Mrs. Roosevelt left Australia by air yesterday in the Liberator which has carried her many thousands of miles.
BRYANSK NOW IN RUSSIAN HANDS
TROOPS ADVANCING ON ALL FRONTS
The latest major victory of the Red Army is the capture of the German stronghold of Bryansk.
This city, once a main German base, has been the objective of powerful Russian drives from the north-east and south-east since they occupied Orel at the beginning of their great offensive.
The Germans had constructed a number of hedgehog defences extending 3200 kilometres from Leningrad in the north, down to Rostov, on the Sea of Azov.
Drive towards the Sea of Azov.
The main bastions comprised Rhzev, Vyazma, Smolensk, Bryansk and Kursk. Of these five great fortresses only Smolensk now remains in German hands.
The Soviet advance also continues into the Ukraine.
It has been reported that 43,000 German colonists have passed through Kiev during this week, as they fled before the advancing Red Army.
In their drive along the shores of the Sea of Azov, our Allies have now captured the town of Yalta, about 25 kilometres west of Mariupol. Heavy casualties have been inflicted upon the enemy in this sector and more than 150 towns and villages have been liberated in this latest success.
Activity flares up in Caucaucus.
Activity has again flared up in the Caucasus and heavy fighting was reported, yesterday, in the streets of Novorassisk.
One of the immediate results of the Italian surrender is the fact that Germany is rushing thousands of troops and planes to the shores of the Mediterranean, thus relieving the pressure on the Russian front.
The great eastern battle front is the one which Hitler failed to mention in his speech last week.
ALLIED AIR ACTIVITY OVER ENEMY SHIPPING
Owing to bad weather conditions there was very little air activity over the continent yesterday. Today Typhoons have again been active in harassing enemy shipping.
Aircraft from two squadrons together sank one small vessel, left four on fire and damaged six others.
In the face of intense flak from shore batteries and the ships, the cannon-carrying Typhoons of a New Zealand squadron attacked at sea level off Cherbourg, leaving a tug well on fire and sinking, setting fire to a naval auxiliary of 1000 tons and damaging two escorting craft. All our aircraft returned safely.
Formation of medium bombers, escorted by fighters passed over the south-east coast near Dover this evening flying to the north of Calais.
The planes were seen returning from the other side some fifty minutes later.
ALLIES CAPTURE JAPANESE BASE
TROOPS NOW MASTERS OF JUNGLE WARFARE
The latest communique from Gen. MacArthur's headquarters reports the capture of the important Japanese base of Salamaua. Pioneer troops swam the Franciso River and occupied the town to find that the Japanese had already fled. Seven long months of bombing and the threat of steel bayonets had proved too much for them.
The Japanese troops are now being beaten at their game of jungle warfare. The Allied soldiers have mastered the art of fighting their way forward foot by foot through the swamps and forests. They are killing the Japs with knives, their hands or any other manner which presents itself.
The Japanese have now fallen back upon their last strong base in New Guinea at Lae. Our forces are already at the outskirts of this town and its fall is considered iminent.[sic]
Up in the North Pacific U.S. bombers have again struck at the Japanese naval base of Paramushira, in the Kurile Islands, which lies only four miles flying distance from the Japanese mainland. The latest attack on the Japanese base destroyed ground installations and damaged five enemy warships lying in the harbour.
U.S. Bombers Attack Oil Base
A late despatch from General McArthur's headquarters reveals that yesterday a force of American bombers flew 4000 kilometres and made a successful attack on a large enemy oil storage base in the Celebes.
It is now known that ten U.S. planes failed to return from the raid on Paramoshiri. Ten and possibly 13 Japanese planes were shot down.
[boxed] [italics] Time Bombs and Depth Charges [/italics] [boxed]
IT would be nice if we could build a better world just from better plans . . . The fact is that it's going take some better people.
[symbol] Oratory is no substitute for action.
WE'VE got meatless days. – We might also cut out the beefing.
We have heatless houses. – Let's drop the heated arguments.
We have tireless cars. – Let's be tireless at work.
[symbol] The shirt does not enjoy the wash-board; but it makes it clean.
AN ambitious young woman was to entertain a duchess for the first time. She gave careful instructions to her maid.
"Now Mary," she said, "whenever you address the duchess you must say 'Your Grace'." When the great day arrived and the maid opened the door to the duchess, the latter asked if Mrs. . . . was at home, she answered: "Yes, ma'am, she is, and may the Lord make us truly thankful for what we are about to receive."
[symbol] The real isolationists are those who think they can live for themselves.
[page break]
OCEAN NEWS
[Censor: S./L.A.S. TURNBULL, Ship's Security Officer] [Price: Two Cents]
Another Victory to Great Summer Offensive
Novorossisk Captured By Land and Sea
The Soviet Army has added another victory to their Great Summer Offensive.
Yesterday, the Black Sea port of Novorossisk was carried by storm from land and sea. Novorossisk was the Russians main naval base in the Black Sea and was the Germans last main hold in the Caucasus, lying just across the narrow Kerch Straits to the eastern end of the Crimea.
NAZIS FORCES ROUTED
In the five days' fighting which preceded the capture of the port, three German divisions, a strong force of German marines and a division of the Rumanian army were routed. In their drive along the north shores of the Sea of Azov the Red Army is now only eight kilometres from Militapol.
In the Central Ukraine the enemy is still retreating, with big losses, to Narogar south of the Dnieper bend.
ALLIES APPROACHING KIEV
Further north our Allies are in full pursuit of the Germans across the River Desna and yesterday captured Novgorod-Seversky. They are now rapidly closing-in on Preluki, 35 miles south-west of Nyezhin, and are fast approaching the outer defence system of Kiev.
The Germans are rushing up reinforcements, but several large groups of the enemy are surrounded in the marshy ground.
The Invasion of Salerno (continued)
batteries, artillery positions in the hills and the machine-gun stations along the beaches.
AMERICAN TROOPS TOUGH JOB
While we had ideal landing beaches and the sea was calm, the Americans were faced with one of the toughest propositions yet confronted by an amphibious force. It is believed that at least two German divisions, including armour, were waiting for us.
The first few waves found little opposition, but hell broke loose just before dawn. By nightfall on Thursday there was hardly a man ashore that did not have his foxhole. Most of our beaches were still under machine gun and mortar fire and all under shell fire.
GREATEST BARRAGE EVER SEEN
Soon after dark bombers came over in force and gave their attention to the invasion armada. One of the greatest barrages ever seen was put up by Allied ships of all sizes and shapes and the raiders were kept at a great height. Hundreds of flares lit up Salerno Bay, turning night into day, but not a single ship was hit, though there were many near misses.
Results have now been obtained from the risks rightly taken under the necessity of exploiting the armistice promptly and supporting the Italian Government on its surrender.
[italics] In the Mediterranean: [/italics]
ALLIES TAKE INITIATIVE ON SALERNO FRONT
British Fifth and Eighth Army Patrols Now Linked Up
FIERCE GERMAN REAR-GUARD ACTION
We have now taken the initiative in the actual fighting area around Salerno and have successfully flung back three fierce German counter-attacks. Our bridgeheads are now firmly established and patrols of the British Eighth Army have now joined patrols of the Allied Fifth Army some ten miles south of the Salerno bridgehead.
During the last 24 hours, after a week of bitter fighting, the enemy's stand has thinned out considerably but unusually strong and well-armed rear-guard actions have been fought to cover the withdrawal of the German troops.
Many prisoners have already been taken and two salients driven inland to the extent of ten miles.
[italics] Battle for Two Roads [/italics]
Patrols of the British Fifth Army Corps have also come up from the south-east and have linked up with those of the Fifth and Eighth Armies at Agropoli. General Montgomery's troops have thus advanced over 200 miles from the Gulf of Taranto in two weeks.
At the northern end of the bridge the battle is in progress for two important roads – one south to Naples and the other running inland from Abelino.
The Germans apparently shot their bolt when making their fiercest attack on our bridgehead on Tuesday when the Allied defenders finally held the enemy three miles from the beaches.
MAGNIFICENT AIR SUPPORT
The terrific air support given to our troops has greatly reduced the enemy's supply of guns, ammunition and stores by blocking their supply routes. This support was continued yesterday when the road and rail junctions at Potenza were again successfully attacked. Terrific damage was done to this main junction leading from northern, eastern and southern Italy into Naples.
There is very little opposition from German fighters. One enemy plane was shot down yesterday and two of our planes were lost.
NASIS [sic] BEGIN LOOTING
It now appears that food is becoming short in German-occupied Italy and the looting of Italian farms and villages has begun. As a result of this the bad feeling which already existed has reached a point where the Italian peasants are rising against the Germans and guerilla warfare has now broken out.
THE INVASION OF SALERNO
It is now known that as our Great Armada steamed towards the invasion point last Wednesday, we were attacked by German bombers. The enemy had taken over all the Italian
continued in preceding column
JAPANESE RESISTANCE AT LAE BEING OVERCOME
The resistance of the Japanese defenders at Lae, New Guinea, is being overcome. Allied troops are now fighting their way through the main fortifications.
Yesterday our bombers, with strong fighter escort, made a heavy attack on the main airfield at Wewak, 90 miles up the coast from Lae.
Sixty-six tons of bombs were concentrated on the target in less than 15 minutes, scoring direct hits.
Two large oil dumps were set ablaze.
Sixty to seventy enemy fighters intercepted in an effort to halt our attacks, and for nearly an hour they fought viciously.
In brilliant defence, our planes shot down 39, and probably destroyed ten more.
Fortresses' Raid on U-Boats and Docks
Twenty-Nine Enemy Fighters Destroyed
An official communique from London states that U.S. Eight Air Force Fortresses attacked the port facilities, shipping and an airfield at Nantes, the U-Boats and docks at La Pallice, and the airfields at Cognac and La Rochelle in France yesterday.
The formation attacking Cognac and La Pallice flew over 1600 miles and landed at their home bases after dark. There were numerous battles with enemy fighters, 27 of which were destroyed by Fortresses and two by supporting Thunderbolts.
Marauders and Mitchells attacked the airfields at Beaumont le Roget and Tricqueville, and the marshalling yards at Serqueux and power stations near Rouen. R.A.F., Dominion and Allied fighters escorted and covered the medium bombers and carried out supporting sweeps.
Some enemy fighter opposition was encountered in the attack on Beaumont le Roget, and six enemy planes were destroyed.
From these operations 13 heavy bombers and three fighters are missing.
CANADIAN FLYERS IN ATTACK
The Bomber Command, including Canadian Halifax Squadrons, again attacked railway communications last night. This time the attack was concentrated on the communications between France and Italy.
The main attack was against the French frontier town of Moldane, which is near the Monsignie tunnel to Turin. The Andiol viaduct near St. Raphael, east of Cannes, across which runs the railway to Genoa.
Mosquitoes were again over Berlin last night. Four bombers, including a Canadian bomber and one Canadian fighter, are missing.
Command planes attacked enemy shipping from Norway to the English Channel, and a Hampden hit two merchant vessels with torpedoes.
Two of our Coastal Command aircraft are missing.
[boxed] Time Bombs and Depth Charges [/boxed]
[symbol] Those who take time out for themselves are putting time in for the enemy.
IT takes a baby approximately two years to learn to talk and between sixty and seventy-five to keep his mouth shut.
[symbol] Unselfishness is the only voice which can change the conversation when money talks.
A HIGH Nazi official was visiting Switzerland and was introduced to a Swiss, who was described as an Admiral.
"What does a country which has no sea and no navy want with an Admiral?" said the Nazi facetiously.
"And wy not?!" said the Swiss, "After all, Germany has a Minister of Justice!"
[symbol] Some people tell you high ideals are unattainable as an excuse for putting up with low ones.
I MET my friend in a rather peculiar manner: I stepped on his dog when leaving the pub; when the dog yelped I patted its head and said facetiously: "Does the dog drink?"
"No, but I do," said its owner. So we walked back and had one.
[symbol] We can save democracy through the keenness of our arms and still lose it through the dullness of our minds.
A [missing word] who was very proud of his voice was describing a wonderful dream he'd had.
"I was in a mighty choir," he said, "5.000 sopranos, 5,000 altos, 5,000 tenors – all singing together double forte."
"It must have been wonderful," said the listener, "but what about the basses."
"That was it!" said the dreamer, "Suddenly the conductor stopped the choir and, turning to me, said: ‘Not quite so loud in the bass, please, Mr. Owen'!"
[symbol] The new spirit the world needs cannot be distilled simply from the heat of conflict; it will take warm hearts and kindled imagination.
[Censor: S./L.A.S. TURNBULL, Ship's Security Officer] [Price: Two Cents]
[italics] On the Italian Front: [/italics]
RELENTLESS STRUGGLE STILL CONTINUES
Fifth Army Through Crisis
GERMANS WITHDRAWAL FROM SALIENT INDICATED
According to the latest reports there is still unrelenting and bloody fighting going on all along the front near Salerno, to the south of Naples. The Allied Fifth Army has, however, passed through its crisis. It had to yield ground and struggle desperately to keep its line intact, but the bridgehead still stands.
For the first time since the landing, the Germans failed to make a substantial counter-attack for the 24-hour period and gave indication that they are making a limited withdrawal from the salient which they drove into the Allied bridgehead on Tuesday morning.
The army took advantage of the quiet to reorganise and reinforce the lines protecting the bridgehead.
NAVY & AIR FORCE SUPPORT
New units and equipment rolled up the beach road to relieve the formations, some of which have been fighting for six days. In spite of sporadic air raids on the beach heavy equipment has been landed in lavish quantities.
POSITION MORE FAVOURABLE
The Allied communique states that naval and air support are playing a great part in the struggle and the Fifth Army's position is becoming more favourable day by day.
The Allies chief drawback is the lack of good artillery positions to compare with the enemy positions in the hills all around. This deficiency is being made good as much as can be by employing the guns of the fleet, including such battleships as the "Valiant" and "Warspite," and by air bombing, but they do not make up for the disadvantages in which our land gunners are still placed.
EIGHTH ARMY ADVANCING
Fifty miles of rough country still lie between the Eighth Army and the Salerno battlefield. Moreover, it is expected that the Germans, who have strong forces available, will do what they can to hinder and prevent the junction of the two armies.
So far the Eighth Army's advance has been virtually unopposed. After capturing Belvedere they went on, yesterday, to take the town of Scalea and its two airfields, and are now approaching Sapri.
SCALEA AIRFIELDS TAKEN
The capture of Scalea gives the Eighth Army an emergency landing ground only 50 miles from the Gulf of Salerno. Fighters at present operating in the beach-head area have been coming from aircraft carriers or have been equipped with long-range fuel tanks to carry them from the aerodromes which have been put into operation in the Calabrian Peninsula.
1200 TONS OF BOMBS DROPPED
For the second day in succession, North-West African based air forces beat their own record by making well over 2000 sorties. These were made by all types of bombers and fighters and over 1200 tons of bombs were dropped on the enemy where he was attacking our bridgehead. Most of these air attacks were centred in the Abili area, about ten miles inland.
The Allied air forces are estimated to have dropped 86 bombs per square mile on enemy concentrations.
In the east, the British Fifth Corps have established themselves firmly in in [sic] Taranto and Brindisi, and are holding everything east of a line from Taranto to Bari.
They have established airfields, bases and ports in the extreme south and their grip on Italy south of Naples is tightening.
U.S. AIR FORCE OVER POTENZA
A Middle-East communique states Liberators of the Ninth U.S.A.A.F. bombed the marshalling yards at Potenza in southern Italy, scoring direct hits on railway bridges.
MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF ANOTHER ITALIAN GENERAL
Another big Axis figure has died mysteriously – General Hugo Cavallero, former Italian Chief of Staff. The German Radio gave out that he committed suicide after his release from imprisonment following the Italian surrender, because he could not face the shameful treachery of Italy.
U.S. SHIPYARDS OUTPUT
On Tuesday, nine more cargo vessels were launched in U.S. shipyards. This made a total of 1227 built this year and was the 2000th ship delivered since America entered the war.
Eleven Italian warships arrived at Alexandra, escorted by British warships, from Malta.
FURTHER SOVIET SUCCESSES
ENEMY ROUTED AFTER COUNTER-ATTACKS
As a result of the Soviet victory at Nezhin, the Germans have lost the last main railway on the left bank of the Dnieper. This town is an important rail and communication centre and the key to Kiev, being only 72 miles north-east of the Ukrainian capital. 3000 Germans were killed there and many prisoners taken.
Unconfirmed reports describe the Russians as already fighting on the outskirts of Kiev.
In the south the Germans tried to check the vigorous advance towards Zaporozhie and Melitopol, but their counter-attacks ended in the rout of many infantry and tank units and 2000 Germans killed.
In the Pavlograd area, in central Ukraine, the Germans fell back to fortified places, where they are stubbornly resisting but the Soviets are penetrating the enemy's rear and disorganising his defence.
The Germans are bringing up reinforcements to stem the drive but our Allies are forging steadily ahead.
GENERAL ACTIVITY IN THE SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC
In New Guinea Allied troops are continuing their pincer movement towards Lae.
General MacArthur's head-quarters states that the north-western forces captured centres of resistance yesterday and are pushing down the valley.
The Australians in the north-east continued their advance and are now only two miles from the town.
Allied air forces are actively supporting the ground troops and continue to attack bases further afield.
So far, it is reported that 300 Japanese have been killed or wounded in this operation.
The usual air activity took place and attacks made on Japanese areas in the Solomons, the Bismarck Archipeligo [sic], New Guinea and the Dutch Islands to the west of New Guinea.
A statement on the war in the Solomons, put out by the Japanese Imperial head-quarters, says that the situation there continued to be grim.
Beaufighters in Action over Burma
The India communique states: "Continuing their attacks on road, river and railway communications in Burma, R.A.F. Beaufighters again carried out offensive patrols in difficult weather.
Along the Irrawaddy and Chidwin rivers, oil tanks at Yenagyt and the landing stage at Monywa were heavily attacked, and many river craft including sampans damaged.
Over 30 sampans at Ramree island were sunk or damaged, and damage was caused to the jetty at Kyaukpu.
None of our aircraft is missing.
BRITISH BOMBERS OVER OCCUPIED EUROPE
U.S. Eighth Air Force Attack Aircraft Plants
Bombers from Britain were out over occupied Europe last night. The Air Ministry and U.S. H.Q. announce "the U.S. Eighth Air Force Flying Fortresses attacked the Hispano-Suiza and the Caudron-Renault aircraft plants and C.A.M. ball-bearing works on Wednesday. The targets which are all in the Paris area were bombed with good results.
Sixteen Enemy Fighters Destroyed.
Fortresses also attacked the airfield at Romilly, 60 miles south-east of Paris, and Liberators attacked other airfields in France. Allied fighters escorted and supported the heavy bombers which destroyed 16 enemy fighters.
Escorted and supported by R.A.F., Dominion and Allied fighters, U.S. Marauders attacked the airfield at Merville, 40 miles south-east of Calais, and R.A.F. Mitchells the airfield at Bryas-Sud. From these operations six heavy bombers and three fighters are missing."
Repairing Depots Hit.
C.A.M. stands for Compagnie d'Applications Mechaniques. Fighters are repaired and overhauled at the Hispano-Suiza plant and the Caudron Renault repairs Me.109s.
Romilly is one of the most important bases still available to enemy fighters in the west. This was the first time in the west that Fortresses and Liberators in force attacked at dusk and landed at night.
The Air Ministry announced later that a heavy attack was also made on an important rubber factory at Montlucon, north-west of Vichy.
First reports from the air crews describe the raid as effective and damage heavy, but the thick cloud over the target area prevented accurate observation.
This factory mainly produced synthetic rubber, and the greater part of the output went back direct to the Reich.
Bomber Command Visits Berlin
Bomber Command also sent planes to attack targets in Berlin and other points in north-west Germany.
Fighter Command Intruders attacked road and rail transport in France and the Low Countries.
Eight bombers and two fighters were lost from the above operations.
Enemy Planes Over England
The Germans sent 15 bombers over England last night, three of which were shot down over the south-east coast and one over France. They entered by the south-east and headed for London.
One or two got through and the air-raid alarm lasted about one hour.
Some Casualties Reported.
Heavy gunfire was heard and bombs were dropped in the London area, as well as on two towns on the south-east coast. Some damage and a small nnmber [sic] of casualties have been reported.
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OCEAN NEWS
[Censor: S./L.A.S. TURNBULL, Ship's Security Officer] [Price: Two Cents]
[italics] On the Italia Front: [/italics]
FIERCE BATTLE RAGING SOUTH OF NAPLES
HUGE LAND AND AIR FORCES ON 25-MILE FRONT
Allied Fifth Army in Terrific Conflict
Near Salerno, to the south of Naples, British, American and German troops are locked together in a tremendous struggle.
Huge land and air forces are being thrown against our men by the enemy all along the 25-mile bridgehead. Many of the German crack troops are in this sector – the Hermann Goering Division and the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Panzer Divisions.
The Allied Fifth Army is smashing again and again at enemy strongpoints and troop concentrations.
Many heavy guns are in action and some of our big tanks have been landed, but it is not yet known whether these tanks have been in battle.
The Germans gained some-ground in this sector yesterday, but a battle of such intensity is bound to swing backwards and forwards all the time.
The enemy have the advantage over our troops here as they are holding a high ridge of ground and, consequently, have the whole battle ground constantly in view; they can see and prepare against each of our new offensives as it is formed.
The Germans also have the advantage in that their airfields are closer to the front lines than our own. At one time yesterday, 120 German fighters were in the air over our bridgehead. Our fighters, however, sailed into them from dawn to dusk and destroyed more than four times the number of our own aircraft which were lost.
The losses on both sides in this terrific battle are likely to be heavy.
[italics] Another Port Captured [/italics]
In the south-east of Italy British forces, driving up the coast from Brindisi, have now reached and occupied Bari.
Bari ranks next to Naples in importance as a port in Southern Italy.
The British drive up the west coast has now taken Cosenza and our forces are approximately one-third of the distance to Naples from their initial landing at Reggio.
The Allies are now arriving in Italy in great numbers and are proving themselves masters of the seas and skies. General Eisenhower has under his command huge forces in Africa and Sicily, and the eventual outcome of this conflict cannot be doubted.
[italics] Surrender of Italian Fleet [/italics]
The Italian Fleet is scrupulously honouring the engagement entered into by the Italian Government upon surrender.
Sixty-eight of the larger units of the Italian Fleet are now either in Allied ports or are en route.
This figure includes five battleships, six cruisers and 27 destroyers, in addition to submarines and the smaller combat craft.
ROYAL NAVY IN ACTION OFF DUTCH COAST
A naval skirmish off Holland described in an Admiralty communique stating "while on patrol off the coast of Holland, near Ijmuiden last night, light coastal forces under the command of Lt. J. C. Trelawny, D.S.C. encountered a group of enemy patrol vessels.
TORPEDO HIT OBSERVED.
H.M. ships thrust home their attack to close range in the face of rapid fire from the enemy, and a torpedo hit was observed on one of the patrol ships.
Two other hits were possibly scored on the enemy force, but in the darkness it was impossible to observe the full results of the attack. All H.M.ships returned safely to harbour, having suffered no damage. One rating was slightly wounded.”
2 ITALIAN SHIPS SCUTTLED
According to the Japanese Domei news agency, two Italian vessels in Japanese-held waters were scuttled by their crews when the Japanese attempted to take possession. They were the liner [italics] Conti Verde [/italics] and the gunboat [italics] Laconta. [/italics]
The R.A.F. again raided troop positions in the Arakan district of Burma yesterday. Beaufighters made several sweeps up the Irriwaddy River, sinking many river craft and supply barges.
In the new loan drive in the U.S. two and one quarter thousand million dollars has been subscribed in the first five days.
Mrs. Roosevelt left Australia by air yesterday in the Liberator which has carried her many thousands of miles.
BRYANSK NOW IN RUSSIAN HANDS
TROOPS ADVANCING ON ALL FRONTS
The latest major victory of the Red Army is the capture of the German stronghold of Bryansk.
This city, once a main German base, has been the objective of powerful Russian drives from the north-east and south-east since they occupied Orel at the beginning of their great offensive.
The Germans had constructed a number of hedgehog defences extending 3200 kilometres from Leningrad in the north, down to Rostov, on the Sea of Azov.
Drive towards the Sea of Azov.
The main bastions comprised Rhzev, Vyazma, Smolensk, Bryansk and Kursk. Of these five great fortresses only Smolensk now remains in German hands.
The Soviet advance also continues into the Ukraine.
It has been reported that 43,000 German colonists have passed through Kiev during this week, as they fled before the advancing Red Army.
In their drive along the shores of the Sea of Azov, our Allies have now captured the town of Yalta, about 25 kilometres west of Mariupol. Heavy casualties have been inflicted upon the enemy in this sector and more than 150 towns and villages have been liberated in this latest success.
Activity flares up in Caucaucus.
Activity has again flared up in the Caucasus and heavy fighting was reported, yesterday, in the streets of Novorassisk.
One of the immediate results of the Italian surrender is the fact that Germany is rushing thousands of troops and planes to the shores of the Mediterranean, thus relieving the pressure on the Russian front.
The great eastern battle front is the one which Hitler failed to mention in his speech last week.
ALLIED AIR ACTIVITY OVER ENEMY SHIPPING
Owing to bad weather conditions there was very little air activity over the continent yesterday. Today Typhoons have again been active in harassing enemy shipping.
Aircraft from two squadrons together sank one small vessel, left four on fire and damaged six others.
In the face of intense flak from shore batteries and the ships, the cannon-carrying Typhoons of a New Zealand squadron attacked at sea level off Cherbourg, leaving a tug well on fire and sinking, setting fire to a naval auxiliary of 1000 tons and damaging two escorting craft. All our aircraft returned safely.
Formation of medium bombers, escorted by fighters passed over the south-east coast near Dover this evening flying to the north of Calais.
The planes were seen returning from the other side some fifty minutes later.
ALLIES CAPTURE JAPANESE BASE
TROOPS NOW MASTERS OF JUNGLE WARFARE
The latest communique from Gen. MacArthur's headquarters reports the capture of the important Japanese base of Salamaua. Pioneer troops swam the Franciso River and occupied the town to find that the Japanese had already fled. Seven long months of bombing and the threat of steel bayonets had proved too much for them.
The Japanese troops are now being beaten at their game of jungle warfare. The Allied soldiers have mastered the art of fighting their way forward foot by foot through the swamps and forests. They are killing the Japs with knives, their hands or any other manner which presents itself.
The Japanese have now fallen back upon their last strong base in New Guinea at Lae. Our forces are already at the outskirts of this town and its fall is considered iminent.[sic]
Up in the North Pacific U.S. bombers have again struck at the Japanese naval base of Paramushira, in the Kurile Islands, which lies only four miles flying distance from the Japanese mainland. The latest attack on the Japanese base destroyed ground installations and damaged five enemy warships lying in the harbour.
U.S. Bombers Attack Oil Base
A late despatch from General McArthur's headquarters reveals that yesterday a force of American bombers flew 4000 kilometres and made a successful attack on a large enemy oil storage base in the Celebes.
It is now known that ten U.S. planes failed to return from the raid on Paramoshiri. Ten and possibly 13 Japanese planes were shot down.
[boxed] [italics] Time Bombs and Depth Charges [/italics] [boxed]
IT would be nice if we could build a better world just from better plans . . . The fact is that it's going take some better people.
[symbol] Oratory is no substitute for action.
WE'VE got meatless days. – We might also cut out the beefing.
We have heatless houses. – Let's drop the heated arguments.
We have tireless cars. – Let's be tireless at work.
[symbol] The shirt does not enjoy the wash-board; but it makes it clean.
AN ambitious young woman was to entertain a duchess for the first time. She gave careful instructions to her maid.
"Now Mary," she said, "whenever you address the duchess you must say 'Your Grace'." When the great day arrived and the maid opened the door to the duchess, the latter asked if Mrs. . . . was at home, she answered: "Yes, ma'am, she is, and may the Lord make us truly thankful for what we are about to receive."
[symbol] The real isolationists are those who think they can live for themselves.
[page break]
OCEAN NEWS
[Censor: S./L.A.S. TURNBULL, Ship's Security Officer] [Price: Two Cents]
Another Victory to Great Summer Offensive
Novorossisk Captured By Land and Sea
The Soviet Army has added another victory to their Great Summer Offensive.
Yesterday, the Black Sea port of Novorossisk was carried by storm from land and sea. Novorossisk was the Russians main naval base in the Black Sea and was the Germans last main hold in the Caucasus, lying just across the narrow Kerch Straits to the eastern end of the Crimea.
NAZIS FORCES ROUTED
In the five days' fighting which preceded the capture of the port, three German divisions, a strong force of German marines and a division of the Rumanian army were routed. In their drive along the north shores of the Sea of Azov the Red Army is now only eight kilometres from Militapol.
In the Central Ukraine the enemy is still retreating, with big losses, to Narogar south of the Dnieper bend.
ALLIES APPROACHING KIEV
Further north our Allies are in full pursuit of the Germans across the River Desna and yesterday captured Novgorod-Seversky. They are now rapidly closing-in on Preluki, 35 miles south-west of Nyezhin, and are fast approaching the outer defence system of Kiev.
The Germans are rushing up reinforcements, but several large groups of the enemy are surrounded in the marshy ground.
The Invasion of Salerno (continued)
batteries, artillery positions in the hills and the machine-gun stations along the beaches.
AMERICAN TROOPS TOUGH JOB
While we had ideal landing beaches and the sea was calm, the Americans were faced with one of the toughest propositions yet confronted by an amphibious force. It is believed that at least two German divisions, including armour, were waiting for us.
The first few waves found little opposition, but hell broke loose just before dawn. By nightfall on Thursday there was hardly a man ashore that did not have his foxhole. Most of our beaches were still under machine gun and mortar fire and all under shell fire.
GREATEST BARRAGE EVER SEEN
Soon after dark bombers came over in force and gave their attention to the invasion armada. One of the greatest barrages ever seen was put up by Allied ships of all sizes and shapes and the raiders were kept at a great height. Hundreds of flares lit up Salerno Bay, turning night into day, but not a single ship was hit, though there were many near misses.
Results have now been obtained from the risks rightly taken under the necessity of exploiting the armistice promptly and supporting the Italian Government on its surrender.
[italics] In the Mediterranean: [/italics]
ALLIES TAKE INITIATIVE ON SALERNO FRONT
British Fifth and Eighth Army Patrols Now Linked Up
FIERCE GERMAN REAR-GUARD ACTION
We have now taken the initiative in the actual fighting area around Salerno and have successfully flung back three fierce German counter-attacks. Our bridgeheads are now firmly established and patrols of the British Eighth Army have now joined patrols of the Allied Fifth Army some ten miles south of the Salerno bridgehead.
During the last 24 hours, after a week of bitter fighting, the enemy's stand has thinned out considerably but unusually strong and well-armed rear-guard actions have been fought to cover the withdrawal of the German troops.
Many prisoners have already been taken and two salients driven inland to the extent of ten miles.
[italics] Battle for Two Roads [/italics]
Patrols of the British Fifth Army Corps have also come up from the south-east and have linked up with those of the Fifth and Eighth Armies at Agropoli. General Montgomery's troops have thus advanced over 200 miles from the Gulf of Taranto in two weeks.
At the northern end of the bridge the battle is in progress for two important roads – one south to Naples and the other running inland from Abelino.
The Germans apparently shot their bolt when making their fiercest attack on our bridgehead on Tuesday when the Allied defenders finally held the enemy three miles from the beaches.
MAGNIFICENT AIR SUPPORT
The terrific air support given to our troops has greatly reduced the enemy's supply of guns, ammunition and stores by blocking their supply routes. This support was continued yesterday when the road and rail junctions at Potenza were again successfully attacked. Terrific damage was done to this main junction leading from northern, eastern and southern Italy into Naples.
There is very little opposition from German fighters. One enemy plane was shot down yesterday and two of our planes were lost.
NASIS [sic] BEGIN LOOTING
It now appears that food is becoming short in German-occupied Italy and the looting of Italian farms and villages has begun. As a result of this the bad feeling which already existed has reached a point where the Italian peasants are rising against the Germans and guerilla warfare has now broken out.
THE INVASION OF SALERNO
It is now known that as our Great Armada steamed towards the invasion point last Wednesday, we were attacked by German bombers. The enemy had taken over all the Italian
continued in preceding column
JAPANESE RESISTANCE AT LAE BEING OVERCOME
The resistance of the Japanese defenders at Lae, New Guinea, is being overcome. Allied troops are now fighting their way through the main fortifications.
Yesterday our bombers, with strong fighter escort, made a heavy attack on the main airfield at Wewak, 90 miles up the coast from Lae.
Sixty-six tons of bombs were concentrated on the target in less than 15 minutes, scoring direct hits.
Two large oil dumps were set ablaze.
Sixty to seventy enemy fighters intercepted in an effort to halt our attacks, and for nearly an hour they fought viciously.
In brilliant defence, our planes shot down 39, and probably destroyed ten more.
Fortresses' Raid on U-Boats and Docks
Twenty-Nine Enemy Fighters Destroyed
An official communique from London states that U.S. Eight Air Force Fortresses attacked the port facilities, shipping and an airfield at Nantes, the U-Boats and docks at La Pallice, and the airfields at Cognac and La Rochelle in France yesterday.
The formation attacking Cognac and La Pallice flew over 1600 miles and landed at their home bases after dark. There were numerous battles with enemy fighters, 27 of which were destroyed by Fortresses and two by supporting Thunderbolts.
Marauders and Mitchells attacked the airfields at Beaumont le Roget and Tricqueville, and the marshalling yards at Serqueux and power stations near Rouen. R.A.F., Dominion and Allied fighters escorted and covered the medium bombers and carried out supporting sweeps.
Some enemy fighter opposition was encountered in the attack on Beaumont le Roget, and six enemy planes were destroyed.
From these operations 13 heavy bombers and three fighters are missing.
CANADIAN FLYERS IN ATTACK
The Bomber Command, including Canadian Halifax Squadrons, again attacked railway communications last night. This time the attack was concentrated on the communications between France and Italy.
The main attack was against the French frontier town of Moldane, which is near the Monsignie tunnel to Turin. The Andiol viaduct near St. Raphael, east of Cannes, across which runs the railway to Genoa.
Mosquitoes were again over Berlin last night. Four bombers, including a Canadian bomber and one Canadian fighter, are missing.
Command planes attacked enemy shipping from Norway to the English Channel, and a Hampden hit two merchant vessels with torpedoes.
Two of our Coastal Command aircraft are missing.
[boxed] Time Bombs and Depth Charges [/boxed]
[symbol] Those who take time out for themselves are putting time in for the enemy.
IT takes a baby approximately two years to learn to talk and between sixty and seventy-five to keep his mouth shut.
[symbol] Unselfishness is the only voice which can change the conversation when money talks.
A HIGH Nazi official was visiting Switzerland and was introduced to a Swiss, who was described as an Admiral.
"What does a country which has no sea and no navy want with an Admiral?" said the Nazi facetiously.
"And wy not?!" said the Swiss, "After all, Germany has a Minister of Justice!"
[symbol] Some people tell you high ideals are unattainable as an excuse for putting up with low ones.
I MET my friend in a rather peculiar manner: I stepped on his dog when leaving the pub; when the dog yelped I patted its head and said facetiously: "Does the dog drink?"
"No, but I do," said its owner. So we walked back and had one.
[symbol] We can save democracy through the keenness of our arms and still lose it through the dullness of our minds.
A [missing word] who was very proud of his voice was describing a wonderful dream he'd had.
"I was in a mighty choir," he said, "5.000 sopranos, 5,000 altos, 5,000 tenors – all singing together double forte."
"It must have been wonderful," said the listener, "but what about the basses."
"That was it!" said the dreamer, "Suddenly the conductor stopped the choir and, turning to me, said: ‘Not quite so loud in the bass, please, Mr. Owen'!"
[symbol] The new spirit the world needs cannot be distilled simply from the heat of conflict; it will take warm hearts and kindled imagination.
Collection
Citation
“Three pages of Ocean News,” IBCC Digital Archive, accessed April 30, 2024, https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collections/document/38335.
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