8 February 1945

THURSDAY, 8 FEBRUARY 1945

EUROPEAN THEATER OF OPERATIONS (ETO)

STRATEGIC OPERATIONS (Eighth Air Force): 150 B-17s and 264 B-24s dispatched
to attack targets in W Germany are recalled before leaving the UK coast due
to clouds over bases, routes, and targets. 98 of 99 P-51s fly a sweep
strafing rail traffic and parked aircraft; they claim 1-0-0 Luftwaffe
aircraft. 11 of 13 P-51s escort photo reconnaissance aircraft over Germany.

TACTICAL OPERATIONS (Ninth Air Force): 320+ B-26s, A-20s, and A-26s strike
a road junction, marshalling yard, 3 defended areas, and 10 casual targets in
Germany. Fighters fly armed reconnaissance, bomb numerous ground targets, and
support the US XII Corps which has, on 7 Feb, crossed the Our and Sauer
Rivers between Vianden and Echternach, Luxembourg and established
bridgeheads. HQ 406th Fighter Group and the 512th Fighter Squadron move from
Metz, France to Assche, Belgium with P-47s. The 39th Photographic
Reconnaissance Squadron, Ninth AF, based at St Amand, France with F-5s, sends
a flight to operate from Le Culot, Belgium.