K e n s m e n : 4 3 r d B o m b G r o u p (H), 5 t h A A F | ||
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Major
McCullar on Dawn Attacks
28 November, 1942
1. We have found that a dawn attack on shipping in a harbor area, where the general position of such ships are known to be located, has been very successful. One thing that must be borne in mind is that the bomb approach must be made into the East. If this is not done, the Pilot and Bombardier will not be able to see the ships until it gets fairly light which gives the enemy a chance to see you. This would defeat the whole purpose of a dawn attack. When the approach is made in the east, the ships will be silhouetted against the reflection on the water. 2. We have used an altitude of from 4500 to 6000 feet to keep out of range of the automatic weapons, and still at a very effective bombing altitude. If possible, the retirement should be made into the West so as not to silhouette the plane against the eastern sky. |
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