Attack Jap. Dromes From Timor To Solomons

Northern Advocate, 20 February 1943, Page 3

Attack Jap. Dromes From Timor To Solomons

(Special) SYDNEY, This Day. Japanese shipping and aerodromes from Timor to the Solomons were attacked by General MacArthur’s bombers on Thursday. No large enemy vessels are claimed to have been sunk, but those attacked included a cruiser in the harbour at Dilli (Timor), a 5000ton supply ship in Reirj Bay (New Britain) and another cargo ship off Cape Orford (New Britain). A 300-ton auxiliary schooner and four launches were sunk or damaged at Alexishafen (New Guinea).

Japanese air passivity has been pronounced in recent weeks. The enemy’s offensive activities have been sparse and weak, and their fighter interception much reduced.

Running Fight Over Timor

Strongest fighter opposition reported for some time in the South-west Pacific theatre was encountered by Mitchell medium bombers attacking a cruiser at Dilli. Five Zeros intercepted the raiders and, in a running fight lasting 100 miles across Portuguese Timor, two enemy fighters were shot down. One Mitchell was lost, but later a raft carrying two men was observed on the water.

Liberators made attacks on Japanese cargo vessels at Cape Orford and Rein Bay. Near misses with 5001 b. bombs damaged a 5000-ton vessel in Rein Bay. Beaufighters sweeping along the Northern New Guinea coast fired 20,000 rounds into small shipping at Alexishafen. Our fighter pilots saw Japanese sailors leap overboard from the schooner and launches attacked. Chief Northern Base

Heaviest raid on an enemy aei’Odrome was a night attack by Catalina flying-boats on Kahili airfield at Buin, Bougainville Island, now chief Japanese supply centre in the Northern Solomons. Incendiaries and 5001 b. high-explosive bombs destroyed grounded aircraft, and supply dumps in a two-hour attack. Fires were visible for 50 miles. Despite intense antiaircraft opposition, all our planes returned. Liberators attacked aerodromes at Finschhafen, Madang, Northern New Guinea. In Lae, Waria area, Havoc attack planes strafed targets of opportunity along the coast. Brief reports indicate that Australian patrols are active against Japanese still retreating towards Mubo from Wau. Latest clashes cost the enemy 40 additional dead.