THE PILOT REPORTS:"Smoke bombs confused the enemy ..."
THE ATTACK OPENS: The antiaircraft neutralizing force spearheads the 2 November assault against Rabaul with Mitchell bombers utilizing forward firepower, parachute fragmentation bombs and phosphorous smoke bombs. In the above photo, Lakunai airdrome is being swiftly covered by the dense smoke which will soon blot out the harbor to the eyes of the shore defense batteries. On Lakaunai itself may be seen eight serviceable tactical aircraft. These were attacked by American airmen before the smoke bombs obliterated the target area. Below, the township is covered by phosphorous smoke and by fires started among installations. "Smoke bombs confused the enemy. His return fire against all but the first elements of the Group was inaccurate and sparse." (From Maj. Benjamin Fridge, deputy commander "neutralizing" group.)
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