NOTE: This Operation Plan was transcribed from COPY NO. 1016, typed 60 years ago. The pages have aged, the type is not always clear, and the text has been amended by hand-written notes (which will be shown in green, although it is not always clear where the hand-written notes are additions, or corrections or simply clarify faint text. Deleted text (strike-thru) is displayed in [grey].

Every reasonable step has been taken to preserve the original formatting, pagination, spelling, etc., but allowances should always be made for the possibility of errors in my transcription.    --HyperWar


ANNEX "G" TO COMMANDER ALLIED NAVAL FORCES, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA OPERATION PLAN NO. 13-44.

AIR PLAN

TASK ORGANIZATION

  1. (77.2) Fire Support Group VO-VCS Aircraft - Rear Adm. OLDENDORF.
  2. (77.4) Escort Carrier Group and Attached Aircraft (300 VF, 200 VT Approx.) - Rear Adm. T.L. SPRAGUE.
  1. Information as set forth in Commander Allied Naval Forces, Southwest Pacific Area Operation Plan 13-44.

      Own Air Forces.

    1. CTF 38 - (Carrier Task Forces, Pacific Fleet - 8 CV, 8 CVL) will effect carrier strikes: On either OKINAWA and/or FORMOSA or on Northern LUZON and FORMOSA during period A-10 to A-7 Days; on LUZON-BICOL Area, the LEYTE-CEBU-NEGROS Area and in support of the landing in the LEYTE Area during the period A-4 through A-Day inclusive; and beginning A plus 1 day and thereafter operate in strategic support of the operation, effecting strikes as the situation then requires.

    2. It is anticipated that shore-based Air Forces, Pacific Ocean Area, will operate in the general BICOLS Area as soon as PALAU air base facilities permit. Air Forces of Southwest Pacific Area will continue the neutralization of MINDANAO and hostile air and Naval forces to westward of our line of advance. Coordination of these strikes with those set forth in (a), above, will be effected by Commander in Chief, Southwest Pacific Area and Commander Third Fleet. Beginning A plus 1 a daily courier plane (PBY-5A Amphibian Catalina) from HOLLANDIA will land in the LEYTE GULF Area. This plane will contact Commander Support Aircraft, Central PHILIPPIUNES Attack Force prior to reaching the area and receive approach and landing instructions. Its arrival time will be about 1400 (ITEM). One seaplane tender will arrive A-2 to tend VO-VCS Aircraft and a second will arrive A plus 1. Catalinas or Mariners will be called forward when the situation warrants; arrival of these squadrons will be promulgated by despatch. In addition air evacuations will be extended into the KING TWO area if practicable as determined by Commander in Chief, Pacific Ocean Areas.

  2. Beginning A-3 day VO-VCS aircraft and CVE based aircraft, as assigned, will operate in the objective area and provide services as set forth below:

    1. VO-VCS Aircraft.

      1. Naval gunfire spotting.

      2. Air-Sea Rescue as requested.

      3. Anti-Submarine Patrol, if directed.

G-1

    1. CVE Based Aircraft.

      1. Direct Air Support Groups, both scheduled and call.

      2. Combat Air Patrol in the objective area (TCAP).

      3. Anti-Submarine Patrol in the objective area (TASP).

      4. Same as (2) and (3) above for own CVE group protection (CAP and ASP).

      5. Artillery spotting, air observer, smokers, air coordinator, photographic, air-delivery and such additional special missions as may be ordered.

      6. Aircraft strikes against enemy surface forces as ordered.

      7. Aerial escort for convoys, both CAP and ASP, as ordered.

    1. (77.2) Bombardment and Fire Support Group - VO-VCS Aircraft.
             (From arrival at objective area until departure)

      1.
      ITEM
      2.
      Task
      3.
      Aircraft
      4.
      Armament
      5.
      Explanatory Notes
      1 Naval Gunfire Spot. As ordered by CTG 77.2 As ordered by CTG 77.2 VO-VCS Aircraft must keep clear of support aircraft engaged in strikes.
      2 Air-Sea Rescue As required No bombs As requested by CSACF.
      3 ASP As ordered by CTF 77 As ordered by CTF 77 If ordered by CTF 77.

    2. (77.4) Escort Carrier Group and Attached Aircraft.

      Detailed instructions for employment of CVE aircraft in the objective area are covered in Appendix 1 of this Annex. Escort duties to be performed by various carriers of this group include Anti-Submarine patrol and Combat Air patrol for specified convoys proceeding to and from the objective area. Aerial Escort Plan GEORGE (FTP 223) is recommended; it is recommended further that each VT be augmented with one VF to act as anti-snooper and furnish protection for the VT. The OTC will prescribe the detailed ASP Plan and the strength of the CAP. Under normal circumstances, unless otherwise directed, escorting carriers will act as Fighter Direction ships for convoy CAP; assignment of Fighter Director duty residing in the CVE Unit Commander.

      Escort carriers, as outlined in Appendix 6 of this Annex, will transport artillery spotting aircraft to the objective area for fly away delivery to designated air strips.

      Escort Carrier Group, while at the objective area, will operate in the seaward areas to eastward of the LEYTE GULF as set forth in Appendix 2 to Annex L and will

G-2

      furnish the aircraft as requested to meet the schedules laid down in the Air Support Plan (Appendix 1 to this Annex). It is anticipated that it will be feasible for a majority of the CVEs to be withdrawn from the objective area when Garrison Air Forces are operational; however a number of CVEs, as designated by Commander Central PHILIPPINES Attack Force, may be directed to remain to provide support of operations until Garrison Air Force can assume full responsibility for air defense.

  1. PT Boats.

    About forty PT Boats will be operating at night in and near the objective area beginning on the night of A plus 1 Day. All pilots will be thoroughly briefed on the contents of Appendix 5 Annex E of Commander Allied Naval Forces, Southwest Pacific Area Operation Plan 13-44 (Motor Torpedo Boat Operating Instructions). Prior to attacking or assuming hostile attitude against any surface craft, its presence must be reported to Commander Support Aircraft stating the location of the craft and that it has been positively identified as enemy. Do not attack until so ordered by Commander Support Aircraft.

  2. Logistics.

    1. VO-VCS refueling and reservicing will be provided in the objective area by SAN CARLOS which will report to CTG 77.2 for such duty on arrival in the objective area.

    2. Escort Carrier Group will effect replenishment of fuel, bombs and ammunition, aircraft and flight personnel at KOSSOL PASSAGE as provided in Annex K. Specified units of this group will be detached by CTF 77 from time to time for such replenishment, following timely advices received from CTG 77.4. While CVE units are enroute to and from replenishment base, when so directed by CTF 77, they will provide CAP and ASP for convoys as requested by Convoy Commander. In this connection, CTG 77.4 must exercise care in assignment of CVE air groups to support missions in order to avoid a level reduction of bomb supply throughout the entire task group which would necessitate, theoretically, a simultaneous replenishment.

  3. Air Communications in accordance with Air Communication Plan, Appendix 2 to this Annex. All planes coming within 75 miles of Point MOLLY (See Appendix 3 to this Annex) will report to CSACP on 142.74 mcs. All itinerant and land-based aircraft keep IFF on at all times and check to see that it is on. No aircraft will make any attack in the objective area unless so authorized by CSACP or his designated representatives.

G-3

  1. Transfer of responsibility for air protection and direct support of ground and Naval forces in the objective area from Commander Allied Naval Forces to Commander Allied Air Forces, takes place at a time mutually agreeable to the Commanders concerned. Thereafter, air operations in the objective area are coordinated by Commander Allied Air Forces.

    CTF 77 USS WASATCH
    CSACP USS WASATCH
    Force Fighter Director Officer USS WASATCH
    Fighter Direction USS WASATCH or as directed by CTF 77
    CSA Northern Attack Force USS BLUE RIDGE
    CSA Southern Attack Force USS MT. OLYMPUS
    CSA Northern Attack Force (Standby) USS FREMONT
    CSA Southern Attack Force (Standby) USS APPALACHIAN
    CSA PANAON Attack Group USS HUGHES
    Advance CSA USS TENNESSEE

    Zone Time (-9) (Item).
    A-Day is scheduled to be 20 October 1944.
    H-Hour is scheduled to be 1000 (Item).
    J-Hour is scheduled to be 1000 (Item).
    W-Hour is scheduled to be 1000 (Item).

APPENDICES:

  1. Air Support Plan.
  2. Air Communication Plan.
  3. Air Operations (Chart).
  4. Air-Sea Rescue Procedure.
  5. Fighter Director Plan.
  6. Coordination between Land-based and Carrier-based Air.
  7. Search Plan (Chart).

G-4

APPENDIX 1 TO ANNEX "G" TO COMMANDER ALLIED NAVAL FORCES, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA OPERATION PLAN NO. 13-44.

AIR SUPPORT PLAN

General Information.

  1. Preliminary strikes by land and fast carrier-based aircraft will be directed and/or coordinated by Commander THIRD FLEET and Commander Allied Air Forces; target priority assignment will be made by Commander Allied Naval Forces, Southwest Pacific Area.

  2. Carrier-based aircraft operations for the support of the capture of LEYTE have been approved as indicated hereinafter. Where numbers of aircraft are specified for designated missions, it is understood that these numbers are approximate; they should be increased if practicable when such increase will further the mission involved and may be decreased if developments of the operation dictate. Should it be necessary to reduce materially any flight group, that fact will be reported to Commander Task Force 77 (Commander Support Aircraft Central PHILIPPINES).

  3. If practicable, night-fighter cover will be provided over the objective area by THIRD FLEET fast carriers beginning A-3 and continuing as long as a carrier with night-fighters can be made available. The Controlling Fighter Director of the night-fighters will insure that no friendly aircraft, except when in close interception of an enemy,as determined by the FDO, will approach within five (5) miles of friendly ground forces or transport areas. The limits of these areas will be prescribed daily at dusk by the Force Fighter Director. Should an enemy air attack enter an area in which fighter direction can be done best by aircraft carriers, control will be passed to these ships.

    1. Anti-enemy PT boat sweeps will be made on the mornings of A-3, A-2, and A-1 by twelve (12) VF from the 0700 Support Group or groups; this sweep will report to and be directed by Advanced CSA. These planes will operate in three groups over areas and with restrictions as listed herein. These areas are separate from the Anti-Shipping areas as shown on the Air Operations Chart.

      North Area
      Covers area of SAN JUANICO STRAIT, around CAACOL ISLAND, north along coast of SAMAR ISLAND to CATBALOGAN TOWN, through and around BAUD-PARASAN-DARAM ISLAND group, through BILIRAN STRAIT and return along north coast of LEYTE, through SAN JUANICO STRAIT (south of BACOL ISLAND) to TACLOBAN TOWN, and rejoin Support Group.

      LEYTE GULF Area
      From SUNGI POINT, along south coast of SAMAR ISLAND, around SAN PEDRO BAY, south along LEYTE east coast to CATMON HILL, west across LEYTE to ORMOC BAY and south along LEYTE west coast to BAYBAY TOWN east across LEYTE to TAYTAY POINT and rejoin Support Group.

APP. 1 -- G-1

      South Area
      From DESOLATION POINT on DINAGAT ISLAND and along its entire west coast, west across SURIGAO STRAIT to BINIT POINT on PANAON ISLAND, north to and through PANAON STRAIT, around SOGOD BAY and back through PANAON STRAIT, north along LEYTE east coast to TAYTAY POINT, and rejoin Support Group.

    1. During A-3, A-2, and A-1 Days ONLY, aircraft may attack on sight any shipping OUTSIDE and WEST of LEYTE GULF and WEST and SOUTH of PANAON ISLAND. Before attacking ANY boating inside LEYTE GULF or SURIGAO STRAIT, the reports and directions as contained in Paragraph 4 of ANNEX "G" (Air Plan) MUST be complied with.

  1. The Northern Attack Force (TF 78) will land designated units of 98th Ranger Battalion on Southern HOMONHON ISLAND and Northern DINAGAT ISLAND on A-3 Day.

    At H-Hour on A-Day major remaining elements of X Corps will land on WHITE Beach (SAN RICARDO) and RED Beach (PALO) in the TACLOBAN Area of Northern LEYTE. At W-Hour on A-Day the PANAON Attack Force (78.3) will land 1 RCT of the 24th Infantry Division on GREEN Beach (PANAON STRAIT).

  2. The Southern Attack Force (TF 79) at J-Hour on A-Day will land the XXIV Army Corps comprising the 96th and 7th Infantry Divisions on ORANGE and BLUE Beaches at SAN JOSE and VIOLET and YELLOW Beaches at DULAG respectively.

  3. Commencing with his arrival in the objective area, prior to A-Day, and until relieved by the CSACP in the objective area, the Advanced Commander Support Aircraft (under CTG 77.2) will control and/or coordinate all air operations in the objective area; these operations to include TCAP, TASP, and support groups covering the UDT's and pre A-Day landings. The Advance CSA will be embarked in TENNESSEE; Fighter Direction (primary) in BENNION; Fighter Direction (secondary) in LANG; Fighter Direction (Standby) in BRYANT. After their arrival in the objective area the command and coordination of supporting aircraft as assigned for each objective area shall be directed by the respective Commander Attack Force and exercised through his Commander Support Aircraft as shown in the Command Relationship Diagram (Page 5 of this part.)

  4. The CSA of the Northern, Southern and PANAON Attack Forces will direct appropriate numbers of their Direct Support Aircraft to make an early morning and a late afternoon visual reconnaissance of the main N-S roads along the entire east coast and the west coast of LEYTE as far south as the town of BATO. The areas of responsibility for this reconnaissance are as shown on the Air Operations Chart (Appendix 3 of this Annex).

  5. The fast carrier groups, as directed by Commander THIRD FLEET will make aircraft strikes against the objective area on A-3, A-2, and A-1. On A-Day a strike will be made on LEYTE near beaches areas to be completed prior to 0900 (Item) and fighter sweeps to neutralize airfields in the LEYTE-CEBU-BICOL and Northern MINDANAO Area.

APP. 1 -- G-3

    These strikes groups will report to Advanced CSA or CSA Central PHILIPPINES, as appropriate, who will assure coordination of aircraft strikes and naval gunfire; he will not direct their strikes.

  1. Aircraft of Escort Carrier Group (77.4) will provide direct air support for the capture of LEYTE as indicated hereinafter. Commanders 5th or 7tgh Air Forces may, from time to time, be requested to furnish strategic strikes.

  2. Prior to A-Day (approximately A-2 Day) Underwater Demolition Teams will be operating on and near the landing beaches listed in paragraphs 4 and 5 above. These parties will be clear of the beaches after daylight on A-Day.

    1. MANILA BAY has three air observers, three artillery spotters, three liaison pilots and three L4H type aircraft for use by the 7th Division and XXIV Corps Headquarters. NATOMA BAY has similar units aboard for use by the 96th Division.

    2. Four air observers and four artillery spotters for X Corps (none aboard for Division use) are in CVE's as distributed by CTG 77.4. The L4H planes, pilots, additional observers and spotters for use by X Corps, 1st Cav., and 24th Divs., are aboard LST's.

    3. MANILA BAY and NATOMA BAY each have one specially trained beach observer aboard. They will be airborne in beach area at 0700 until 0900 of A-Day, one to observe the Northern Attack Force beaches and the other to observe the Southern Attack Force beaches. Naval gunfire will be checked when necessary in order to make these observations.

  3. The availability of MAPALM aboard TG 77.4 will be disseminated by despatch.

APP. 1 -- G-3

Command Support Air Relationships at the Objective.

These relationships are best visualized by reference to the diagram:

APP. 1 -- G-4

PART (A) OF APPENDIX 1 TO ANNEX "G".

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS.

  1. All personnel involved in Support Aircraft Operation should read Chapter XVI "Support Aircraft in Amphibious Operations" of Transport Doctrine issued by ComPhibsPac, May 1944.

  2. Commander Support Aircraft at each objective is embarked in the Flagship of the Attack Force Commander unless otherwise designated. The Attack Force Commander, through his Commander Support Aircraft, commands support aircraft from the time that the aircraft arrive on station until their departure for recovery by the parent carrier. Prior to their reporting on station and after departure for recovery these aircraft will operate under command of their respective carrier group or unit commanders. Support Aircraft includes Combat Air Patrols, Anti-Submarine Patrols, Support Aircraft Groups and aircraft assigned special missions such as smokers, photographic planes and liaison planes. Do not use VTB Aircraft in attacks against enemy Anti-Aircraft batteries.

  3. Advance Commander Support Aircraft is in control of support aircraft prior to the arrival at the objective area of Commander Support Aircraft.

  4. The Air Coordinator is a Group or Squadron Commander whose duties,in general, are as follows:

    1. Direct and control scheduled air strikes as set forth in the Air Support Plan and control other attacks as directed by the Commander Support Aircraft.

    2. Report noteworthy developments in the ground situation.

  5. Each Direct Support Group is under a Group Leader. in general, his duties are as follows:

    1. Reports to the Commander Support Aircraft the arrival and departure of the group to and from the objective area.

    2. Additional reports as outlined in 21(a).

    3. Carry out orders received from Commander Support Aircraft or the Air Coordinator.

    4. Direct bombing and strafing attacks of his group when so ordered and report results of the attack to Commander Support Aircraft.

    5. Report to Commander Support Aircraft significant observations made by himself or by pilots of his group.

  6. Air Observers are trained Army or Marine observers whose principal function is to keep the Landing Force Commander and Attack Force Commander informed on the ground situation. The pilots of the Air Observer planes carry out requests of the Air Observers insofar as is practicable without taking undue risks. Under no circumstances may the pilots make attacks without orders from the Commander Support Aircraft or the Air Coordinator.

App. 1(a) -- G-1

  1. Artillery Spotters are trained Army or Marine spotters whose function is to direct artillery fire on targets. When a suitable landing strip is available OY and L-5 Spotting Planes will be operated from the beach and Artillery Spotting and Air Observing will be done from these planes thereafter.

  2. Radio discipline must be maintained at all times. Visual signals for communication between aircraft should be used wherever possible.

  3. Bomb loading as specified is not mandatory; modification should be predicated on bombs and rockets available and on the class of enemy targets remaining.

  4. Timing is most important. Attack on time and Do Not Attack after a given time limit. If an attack is scheduled on the position of either troops or boats, do not continue the attack after the troops or boats have reached the designated point. Troops may be using air support to cover an advance, and attacks beyond a specified time limit may very likely hit our own forces. If attacks are not methodically carried out, troops may think the attack is completed and advance into the fire of the attacking planes.

    In order to obtain maximum effect, it is important that bombing and strafing be carried out deliberately, accurately and in order assigned and in coordination with other air units, troops and gunfire (Naval and Artillery).

    Times of commencing and ceasing bombing or strafing which may be given in reference to HOW Hour, JIG Hour or WILLIAM Hour are approximate. During the critical landing period, i.e., from the time the first wave of amphibious tanks leaves the line of departure until the landing has been effected, the distance of the leading wave of troops from the beach is the governing factor.

  5. Rendezvous points are specified in Annex 3 of the Air Plan. Group Leaders must maintain sufficient altitude (if possible) while they are at one of the rendezvous points so that they may readily deliver a prospective attack when ordered. if it become necessary to move their flights from one rendezvous point to another because of weather conditions, anti-aircraft fire, or any other reason, the group leader will notify the Command Support Aircraft.

    WARNINGS.

  6. Pilots must know the exact location of the target before commencing an attack. Bombers must pull out without dropping and fighters must hold their fire if they are not on the target. If the instructions for an attack are not clear, or if the pilot is not thoroughly familiar with the method of designating a target do not attack until the situation has been completely clarified.

App. 1(a) -- G-2

CORRECTED PAGE 3
PART (A) OF APPENDIX 1 TO ANNEX "G".
  1. No surface craft will be attacked by aircraft in the vicinity of the objective unless it has been positively identified. If identity is doubtful, report presence of vessel to Commander Support Aircraft.

  2. Do not bomb or strafe without orders from competent authority, i.e., Commander Support Aircraft or the Air Coordinator. There are no exceptions. Violations of this cardinal rule will result in disciplinary action.

  3. If practicable, night fighter cover will be provided over the objective area by THIRD FLEET fast carriers beginning A-3 and continuing as long as a carrier with night fighters can be made available.

  4. The areas for anti-shipping sweeps are shown on the Air Operations Chart (Appendix 3 of Air Plan). One or more sections of the TCAP on station may be instructed to investigate these areas, report observations, but NOT to attack until so directed by CSACP. Our PT Boats scout these areas during darkness; extreme care must be exercised to not attack these boats, stranded or underway.

  5. Designation of Targets.
    In designating targets to pilots, Commander Support Aircraft will first give the name of the Island where the target is located then the target map sheet number, and then the designating numbers and letters of the target area.

  6. Target designation will be made from Army Map Service 1000-yard Philippine Polyconic Grid.

  7. Air-Ground Communications.

    1. Fluorescent Panels will be used to mark forward lines of friendly troops. They will be displaced as near to the front line as practicable by the front line units. Panels will be carried by four selected men in each squad. They will be YELLOW or RED as designated and will be approximately 30-36 inches in size. If practicable when panels are used 8 30+ x 36" panels will be grouped together, four panels in length and two in depth for a single display. Successful panel discipline requires not only that panels be laid by all men carrying them, in order to mark successfully the front lines, but also that these panels be removed after the attack is completed. Confusion will be eliminated and the safety of troops insured, if panel discipline is enforced. All pilots will interpret front line panels as indicating the actual front line. It is imperative that ground troops use all means at their disposal to indicate their front lines. This would include use of smoke in addition to panels.

      NOTE: The 1st Cavalry Division may, through necessity, use WHITE panels.

1st Revision to Part (A) of Appendix 1 to Annex G.

    1. Target Designation Panels - will be laid out by Air Liaison Parties in order to supplement radio instructions; these may not always be visible due to vegetation. CCBP-S will be used as doctrine for panel communication.

  1. Air-Ground Pyrotechnic Code.

    SIGNAL MEANING
    (1) Smoke (White Phosphorous) Shells, from shore artillery Indicates position of target.
    (2) Colored Smoke (from ground troops) Supplement panels to indicate front lines.

    In all cases Pyrotechnic signals are secondary to voice communications.

    It should be remembered that timing is of primary importance when using smoke for signalling. Unless there is close coordination the wind will nullify its value as a signal. It is recommended that several phosphorous shells be fired on the target in order that the attacking aircraft can positively identify the smoke. Prior to making the attack, the Air Coordinator should verify to Commander Support Aircraft that he has seen the target. When there is danger of hitting friendly troops a dry run is sometimes advisable.

    All pilots are cautioned that there is a considerable interval between the time when a white phosphorous shell is fired and the time when the smoke is visible. This [is] particularly so when the shell is fired into thick undergrowth. Before attacking, make certain that the smoke is white phosphorous and not some other kind of smoke.

  2. Reporting on station procedure.

    1. All Support Aircraft.

      1. Flight Leader's voice call except for Direct Support Groups when the Group Leader's voice call is required.

      2. Number and types of planes in flight.

      3. Mission, i.e., group designation letter, How Hour Strike, Smoke Layers, etc.

      4. Required time of departure for base.

      5. Armament.

      6. Station.

      7. Beginning and completion of attack.

    2. Combat Air Patrols. (See App. 5 of this Air Plan).

App. 1(a) -- G-4

    1. Careful briefing of pilots on the general and special instructions for each operation is essential. Likewise all pilots should be thoroughly briefed on the front line areas before each flight. Next to safety,k speed in the execution of missions is most important. Careful briefing of front line positions can materially reduce the time required to complete missions.

    2. Important information on the objective, brought out by interrogation of pilots and which had not previously been reported, should be transmitted by ACI Officers to Commander Support Aircraft. The ICSDA Net should be used if possible; otherwise the Support Air Request Net may be used but only in the morning before Direct Support Groups are on station and in the evening when Direct Support Groups have secured. The only exception to this rule is information of an urgent nature.

  1. All Planes have IFF on at all times when in the air.

  2. In case of a forced landing report to Commander Support Aircraft, Central PHILIPPINES, who will initiate rescue operations. (Voice call - HALIFAX).

  3. Safety Precautions.

      Do not fly over friendly troops, transport areas or shipping unless required by mission to do so. When necessary to close surface vessels (except during combat) aircraft will approach in a manner that clearly indicates the plane's friendly character, and avoid maneuvers that might be expected from an enemy (See U.S.F. 70-A, Sec. 5230).

    1. Keep clear of line of fire of Naval and Shore Artillery.

    2. In case of enemy air attack, CSA will normally instruct Direct Support Groups and other aircraft to withdraw 25 miles in the opposite direction from which the air attack is approaching and to await further orders. VF may be retained to augment the regular Combat Air Patrol.

    3. In bombing and strafing ammunition dumps, the interval between planes should be sufficient so that blast from explosion will not damage following plane. The practice of circling needlessly over a burning area on the beach is dangerous because a sudden explosion may destroy the aircraft.

    4. Photographic planes, spotting aircraft, air observation planes and other special mission aircraft must be thoroughly familiar with the traffic flow of Support Air Striking Groups and must keep clear of these groups.

    5. Strafing and bombing will be done parallel to troop lines and beaches; and, in general, accord with traffic directions as shown in App. 3 of this Air Plan.

App. 1(a) -- G-5

PART (b) of APPENDIX 1 to ANNEX"G"

AIR SUPPORT PLAN A-3 Day
Mission Aircraft Report
to
Maintain
Mission
During
Interval
to relieve
on Station
Armament and/or Remarks Item
TCAP (a)8-VF
(b)12-VF
(c)8-VF
PEPSICOLA
BASE
0700-1730 2 hours Fighter Sweep of LEYTE Air Fields enroute to TCAP stations. (a), (b) and (c) will be controlled by FDO of Northern, Southern and PANAON Groups respectively, after their arrival on A-Day. (1)
TASP 4-VTB HALIFAX 0700-1730 As necessary As listed in Part (b) of App. 1 of Annex G. (2)
Support
Group
24-VF
12-VTB
PLAYMATE
for support of 98th Rangers. When directed report to HALIFAX
0700-1730 2 hours VF - Full ammo. Rockets if adaptable.
1/2VTB - 10-100# GP Bombs.
1/2VTB - 4-500# GP Bombs.
Support landings of 98th Rangers after which, support operations at and against LEYTE Area.
(3)
Air
Coord.
1-VTB PLAYMATE 0700-1730 2 hours Bomb loading is optional.
Lead Support Group.
(4)
Air
Observer
1-VTB PLAYMATE When called until cancelled As necessary Observe for 98th Rangers (Use X Corps Air Observer) (5)
Photo As necessary HALIFAX Mission None Photos as required in Part (d) of App. 1 of Air Plan. (6)
Smoke 3-VTB PLAYMATE When called None Support landing of 98th Rangers. Then standby aboard on 2.5 hours notice. (7)
*Dusk
TCAP
12-VF PEPSICOLA BASE 1700-1830 None Full ammo. (8)
Night
TCAP
2-VF(N)
 
2-VF(N)
PEPSICOLA BASE
DEXTER BASE
1800-0700 As necessary Aircraft from THIRD FLEET.
2-VF(N) to cover objective area.
2-VF(N) (if feasible) to cover CVEs.
(9)
* To be operated in groups of not more than four (4) planes.
NOTE: All first flights of the day for Items 1,3 and 4 will be relieved on station after 2.5 hours; later flights after 2.0 hours.

App. 1(b) -- G-1

AIR SUPPORT PLAN A-2 Day
Mission Aircraft Report
to
Maintain
Mission
During
Interval
to relieve
on Station
Armament and/or Remarks Item
TCAP (a)8-VF
(b)12-VF
(c)8-VF
PEPSICOLA
BASE
0700-1730 2 hours Fighter Sweep of LEYTE Air FIelds enroute to TCAP stations. (b), (b) and (c) will be controlled by FDO of Norther, Southern and PANAON Groups respectively, after their arrival on A-Day. (1)
TASP 4-VTB HALIFAX 0700-1730 As necessary As listed in Part (b) of App. 1 of Annex G. (2)
Support
Group
24-VF
12-VTB
HALIFAX 0700-Until relieved by UDT Support Groups. (Items 5,6,7) 2 hours until cancelled. Armament as for Direct Support Groups. Support operations at and against LEYTE until relieved by Items #5, 6 and 7, which cover UDTs. (3)
Air
Coord.
1-VTB PLAYMATE 0700-until relieved by Item 8 Mission Lead Item #3. (4)
Direct
Support
6-VF
4 VTB
HALIFAX When called until 1730 2 hours VF - Full ammo. Rockets if adaptable. (5)
Direct
Support
6-VF
4 VTB
HALIFAX When called until 1730 2 hours 1/2 VTB - 10-100# GP Bombs.
1/2 VTB - 4-500# GP Bombs.
(6)
*Direct
Support
6-VF
4 VTB
HALIFAX When called until 1730 2 hours Cover for UDTs when required. (7)
Air
Coord.
3-VTB HALIFAX When called until 1730 2 hours Bomb loading is optional. Lead direct Support Groups covering the UDTs. (8)
Air
Observer
1-VTB PLAYMATE When called until discontinued As necessary Observe for 98th Rangers. (Use X Corps Air Observer). (9)
Photo 2-VTB HALIFAX Call None Standby aboard on 2 hours notice. (10)
Smoke 3-VTB HALIFAX Call None Standby aboard on 2.5 hours notice. (11)

App. 1(b) -- G-2

AIR SUPPORT PLAN A-2 Day (cont'd)
Mission Aircraft Report
to
Maintain
Mission
During
Interval
to relieve
on Station
Armament and/or Remarks Item
%Dusk
TCAP
12-VF PEPSICOLA
BASE
1700-1830 None Full ammo (12)
Night
TCAP
2-VF(N)
2-VF(N)
PEPSICOLA BASE
DEXTER BASE
1800-0700 As necessary Aircraft from THIRD FLEET.
2-VF(N) to cover objective area.
2-VF(N) (if feasible) to covers CVEs
(13)
% To be operated in groups composed of not more than four (4) planes.
* For communication reasons ALL VF assigned to PANAON Support Groups must be F6F.
NOTE: All first flights of the day, for Items #1, 3 and 4 will be relieved on station after 2.5 hours; later flights after 2.0 hours.

App. 1(b) -- G-3

AIR SUPPORT PLAN A-1 Day
Mission Aircraft Report
to
Maintain
Mission
During
Interval
to relieve
on Station
Armament and/or Remarks Item
TCAP (a)8-VF
(b)12-VF
(c)12-VF
PEPSICOLA
BASE
0700-1730 2 hours Fighter Sweep of LEYTE Air fields enroute to TCAP stations.
(a), (b) and (c) will be controlled by FDO of Norther, Southern and PANAON Groups respectively, after their arrival on A-day.
(1)
TASP 4-VTB HALIFAX 0700-1730 As necessary As listed in part(b) of App.1 of Annex G. (2)
Direct
Support
8-VF
6-VTB
HALIFAX 0700-1730 2.0 hours VF _ full ammo. Bombs if adaptable. (3)
Direct
Support
8-VF
-6-VTB
HALIFAX 0700-1730 2.0 hours 1/2 VTB - 10-100# GP Bombs. Rockets.
1/2 VTB - 4-500# GP Bombs.
(4)
#Direct
Support
8-VF
4-VTB
HALIFAX 0700-1730 2.0 hours Furnish cover for UDTs. (5)
Air
Coord.
3-VTB HALIFAX 0700-1730 2.0 hours Bomb loading is optional. Lead Direct Support Groups covering the UDTs. (6)
Photo 3-VTB HALIFAX Call None Standby aboard on 2.5 hours notice. (7)
Smoke 6-VTB HALIFAX Call None Standby aboard on 2.5 hours notice. (8)
Air
Observer
1-VTB PLAYMATE 0700-?
If called
As necessary Observe for 98th Rangers if called for by Advanced CSA. (9)
*Dusk
TACP
12-VF PEPSICOLA BASE 1700-1830 None Full ammo (10)
Night
TCAP
2-VF(N)
2-VF(N)
PEPSICOLA BASE
DEXTER BASE
1800-0700 As necessary Aircraft from THIRD FLEET.
2-VF(N) to cover objective area.
2-VF(N) (if feasible) to cover CVEs.
(11)
* To be operated in groups composed of not more than four (4) planes.
# For communication reasons ALL VF assigned to PANAON Support Groups must be F6F.
NOTE: All first flights of the day for Items 1, 3 and 4, will be relieved on station after 2.5 hours; later flights after 2.0 hours.

App. 1(b) -- G-4

AIR SUPPORT PLAN A Day
Mission Aircraft Report
to
Maintain
Mission
During
Interval
to relieve
on Station
Armament and/or Remarks Item
TCAP (a)8-VF
(b)12-VF
(c)8-VF
PEPSICOLA BASE 0700-1730 2 hours Fighter sweep of LEYTE Air fields enroute to TCAP stations. (a),(b) and (c) will be controlled by FDO of Northern, Southern and PANAON Groups respectively, after their arrival on A-day. (1)
TASP 4-VTB HALIFAX 0700-1730 As necessary As listed in part (b) of App.1 of Annex G. (2)
Direct
Support
16-VF
6-VTB
BEEHIVE 0700-1730 2.0 hours VF - Full ammo. Bombs if adaptable. (3)
Direct
Support
16-VF
6-VTB
VIRTUE 0700-1730 2.0 hours 1/2 VTB - 10-100# GP Bombs. Rockets.
1/2 VTB - 4-500# GP Bombs.
(4)
#Direct
Support
4-VF
3-VTB
PLAYMATE 0700-1730 2.0 hours (5)
Air
Coord.
3-VTB CSA Concerned 0700-1730 2.0 hours Lead Direct Support Groups and Strike missions as assigned. (6)
Strike
Group
8-VF
6-VTB
BEEHIVE H-60 to H plus 60 None Armament as for Support Groups.
These groups will augment the Direct Support Groups.
(7)
Strike
Group
8-VF
6-VTB
VIRTUE H-60 to H plus 60 None (8)
Strike
Group
4-VF
3-VTB
PLAYMATE H-60 to H plus 60 None (9)
TASK FORCE 38 STRIKE ON LEYTE NEAR BEACH AREAS TO COMPLETE BY 0900. (10)
Air
Observer
3-VTB CSA Concerned H-hour to 1730 As necessary 1 Observer each for 7th and 96th Divs. and 1 for X Corps. (11)
Artillery
Spotter
3-VTB CSA Concerned When called until 1730 As necessary At least 3 hours notice will be given.
One Spotter each for 7th and 96th Divs. and one for X Corps.
(12)
Photo 2.0 HOURS NOTICE WILL BE GIVEN IF MISSION IS NEEDED. (13)

App. 1(b) -- G-5

AIR SUPPORT PLAN A Day (cont'd)
Mission Aircraft Report
to
Maintain
Mission
During
Interval
to relieve
on Station
Armament and/or Remarks Item
Smoke 6-VTB HALIFAX H-60 to H plus 60 None unless called These are available for missions on request from Groups CSAs. After H + 60, be prepared to launch on 2.0 hours notice. (14)
Beach
Observer
1-VTB
1-VTB
BEEHIVE
VIRTUE
H-60 to H-hour
0700 until mission completed
None Special voice radio report to CSA concerned. Use appropriate S.A.O. Channel. (15)
Pamphlet
Drop
2-VTB HALIFAX H-hour for mission. None Drop pamphlets as furnished by and in accord Army Instructions (CVEs have instructions). (16)
*Dusk
TCAP
12-VF PEPSICOLA BASE 1700-1830 None Full ammo. (17)
Night
TCAP
2-VF(N)
2-VF(N)
PEPSICOLA BASE
DEXTER BASE
1800-0700 As necessary Aircraft from THIRD FLEET.
2-VF(N) to cover objective area.
2-VF(N) (if feasible) to cover CVEs.
(18)
* To be operated in groups of not more than four (4) planes.
# For communication reasons ALL VF assigned to PANAON Support Groups must be F6F.
NOTE: All first flights of the day for Items 1,3 and 4, will be relieved on station after 2.5 hours; later flights after 2.0 hours.

App. 1(b) -- G-6

AIR SUPPORT PLAN A plus 1 Day and subsequent
Mission Aircraft Report
to
Maintain
Mission
During
Interval
to relieve
on Station
Armament and/or Remarks Item
TCAP (a)8-VF
(b)12-VF
(c)8-VF
PEPSICOLA
BASE
0700-1730 2 hours Fighter Sweep of LEYTE Air Fields enroute to TCAP station. (a),(b) and (c) will controlled by FDO of Northern, Southern and PANAON Groups respectively, after their arrival on A-Day. (1)
TASP 4VTB HALIFAX 0700-1730 As necessary As listed Part(b) of App.1 of Annex G. (2)
Direct
Support
16 VF
10-VTB
BEEHIVE 0700-1730 2.0 hours VF-Full ammo. Bombs if adaptable.
1/2VTB - 10-100# GP Bombs. Rockets.
1/2VTB - 4-500# GFP Bombs.
(3)
Direct
Support
16-VF
10-VTB
VIRTUE 0700-1730 2.0 hours (4)
Direct
Support
8-VF
4-VTB
PLAYMATE 0700-1730 2.0 hours (5)
Air
Coordinator
3-VTB CSA Concerned 0700-1730 2.0 hours Bomb loading is optional. These coordinators report one each to the CSAs controlling the Direct Support Groups. (6)
Air
Observer
3-VTB CSA Concerned   As necessary One each report to CSA North (1st Cav-24th Div). 2 each report to CSA Southern (7th-96th Divs). XXIV Corps Spotters will be called when needed. (7)
Arty
Spotters
3-VTB CSA Concerned   As necessary (8)
Photo 2-VTB CSA Requesting Call None Available aboard on 2 hours notice. (9)
Smoke 4-VTB CSA Requesting Call None Available aboard on 2.5 hours notice. (10)
*Dusk
TCAP
12-VF PEPSICOLA BASE 1700-1830 None Full ammo. (11)
Night
TCAP
2-VF(N)
2-VF(N)
PEPSICOLA BASE
DEXTER BASE
1800-0700 As necessary Aircraft from THIRD FLEET.
2-VF(N) to cover objective area.
2-VF(N) (if feasible) to cover CVEs.
(12)
Until land based OY and L-5 planes are available one additional VTB may be called for XXIV Corps Artillery Spotter.
For communication reasons, ALL VF assigned to the Panaon Support Group must be F6F.
* To be operated in groups composed of not more than four (4) planes.
NOTE: All first flights of the day for Items, 1,3, and 4 will be relieved on station after 2.5 hours; later flights after 2.0 hours.

App. 1(b) -- G-7

PART (C) OF APPENDIX 1 TO ANNEX G TO CANF SWPA OP PLAN 13-44.

ANTI-SUBMARINE PATROL
  1. This plan provides for carrier based aircraft to maintain a daylight anti-submarine patrol at the objective area. SPECIAL ANTI-SUBMARINE DEVICES (FIDO) WILL NOT BE CARRIED ON THESE PLANES.

  2. Two patrol sectors will be flown, namely: (a) Across LEYTE GULF East entrance between SUNGI POINT and DESOLATION POINT; (b) Across SURIGAO STRAIT between CALIGANGAN POINT and PELOTES POINT. See Appendix 5 of Air Plan.

  3. Each of these sectors will be patrolled during daylight hours by two VTV aircraft commencing on ABLE minus two three day and continuing until otherwise directed by CTF 77 or, in his absence, OTC.

  4. Operational control of aircraft flying these patrols will be maintained by CTF 77, or, in his absence, OTC, through their respective CSA.

  5. Tactical load will be:

    1. Full 50 cal. and 30 cal. ammunition. N4 gun camera on tail gun for attack assessment.

    2. Three (four if practicable) Mark 47 Depth bombs fitted with hydrostatic fuzes and with instantaneous fuzes. to permit bombardment of shore installations after completion of anti-submarine patrol mission. Bombs should have smoke lights (Mark 5) tied to tail with light twine to indicate position of drop.

    3. 4 Solid head and 4 HE rockets if available and adaptable.

    4. Eight, or more, Mark 5 smoke lights.

  6. Contact Procedure.

    1. Mark submarine track by float light.

    2. Report the submarine's location over appropriate radio channel to Commander Support Aircraft, Central Philippines.

    3. Receive acknowledgement from CSACP.

    4. Submarines sighted will be attacked unless friendly destroyer is closer than four miles. If friendly destroyer is closer than four miles, do not attack with bombs unless a Class "A" attack can be made (submarine surfaced, periscope feathering, or not submerged over 15 seconds). Machine gun fire should be liberally employed in all cases where the submarine is on the surface.

    5. In event of contact, VT making contact attacks as outlined above and remains over contact until relieved by CSACP. Other VT continues patrol until otherwise instructed by CSACP.

  7. When relieved and if so directed, Anti-Submarine patrol will report to a specified CSA for a direct support mission.

App. 1(C) -- G-1

  1. Unless specific notice is given to the contrary, ANY submarine operating within or near the entrances of LEYTE GULF or within a 100-mile radius of Point MOLLY is enemy.

  2. Communications in accordance with Air Communication Plan, Appendix 2 to Annex. G.

App. 1(C) -- G-2

COMMANDER ALLIED NAVAL FORCES, SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA OPERATION PLAN NO. 13-44

PART (D) OF APPENDIX 1 TO ANNEX "G"

Photographic Instructions.
  1. Photography has been requested as follows and will be provided by CTG 77.4 on A - 3:

    1. For C.T.F. 78:

      1. 1 to 5000 verticals of the area from TOLOSA to TACLOBAN and 5 miles inland.

      2. 30° obliques of the beach area from CAMIRIS POINT to CATAISAN POINT.

      3. 30° obliques of the PANAON Beach Areas.

    2. For CTF 79:

      1. First Priority.

        1. 1 to 5000 verticals.

          1. Area from TOLOSA to MAYORGA and 5 miles inland.

          2. Area from SUNGI Village to TANGBO POINT and 5 miles inland.

        2. 30° obliques taken from directly offshore approximate scale 1 to 2500 at shore line.

          1. Coast line from TOLOSA to MAYORGA.

          2. Coast line from TARRAGANO to TANGBO POINT.

          3. Entire circumference of CATMON HILL and LIBERNAN HEAD.

      2. Second Priority.

        1. Color verticals 1/5000 for coast line from SAN ROQUE to MAYORGA.

        2. Negatives and undeveloped color transparencies will be delivered to CTF 79 in MOUNT OLYMPUS.

  2. Black and white film will be developed aboard CVE's and one set of coverage delivered to Commander Bombardment and Fire Support Group.

  3. Commander DINAGAT Attack Group will receive the negatives and color transparencies, requested in paragraph 1, from the Escort Carrier Group, and despatch one or more APD's from his group to deliver them on A-2 Day to CTF 78 and CTF 79. Photographs taken in accordance with paragraph 1 will be carefully packaged and marked for delivery to the Task Force Commander concerned in order to effect expeditious delivery.

  4. On A-2 and thereafter photo planes will be available in two hours notice on call.

PART (D) OF APPENDIX 1 TO ANNEX "G" OF CANF, SWPA OP PLAN NO. 13-44

PART (E) TO APPENDIX 1 TO ANNEX G.

AIR DELIVERY INSTRUCTIONS
  1. AIR DELIVERY UNIT ONE ---------- in MARCUS ISLAND

    1. In case of emergency a limited amount of supplies are available to be dropped by parachute for the support of XXIV Corps troops on LEYTE. They are aboard the USS MARCUS ISLAND and are as follows:

    2. The X Corps will not provide supplies for air delivery.

    3. The following procedure will be followed in order to have the supplies dropped:

      1. The Corps Commander of the XXIV Army Corps will make the request to Commander Support Aircraft Southern Attack Force, stating the target area in which the drop is to be made and the appropriate time. A minimum of four hours should be allowed between the time of request and the time for first drop. A large X-shaped ground panel will be displayed at the exact location where the drop is to be made. Troops must keep well clear of this panel while drops are being made. CCBP-8 (Combined Panel System) will be carried by all planes of this Delivery Group.

        1. Upon request of Commander Support Aircraft, supplies will be loaded aboard TBM's (in bomb bays) by Marine Air Delivery Units.

        2. Aircraft will carry full ammo. Guns will be left on "safe" while delivery is being made.

        3. Aircraft will arrive at Initial Point as directed by Commander Support Aircraft and will establish radio communications with Commander Support Aircraft on DADE net (5135 kcs). Commander Support Aircraft will specify the route over which the approach to the delivery point should be made.

        4. Aircraft will make delivery of supplies when directed by Commander Support Aircraft and will establish radio communications and/or visual contact with ground forces. Radio communications will be with ALP-Bn on SADE net (5135 kcs.).

        5. Upon completion of task, group will notify Commander Support Aircraft of completion and success of drop and request instructions before returning to carrier.

        6. Call shall be as follows:

          Air Liaison BLT -- Voice call as assigned in Appendix 2 to Annex G of this Operation Plan.

App 1(e) - G-1

          Commander Support Aircraft       VIRTUE
          Marcus Island (CVE 77)   FAMOUS
          Supply Planes   SUPPY (Plus last digit of TU and flight no.)
          EXAMPLE: Call for flight leader of first (Able) Flight of supply planes in any one day from TU 32.12.3 would be SUPPY-3-Able.

ENCLOSURES:

App 1(e) - G-2

ENCLOSURE 1

Pilot Procedure

  1. All approaches and drops will be controlled by a ground signal officer, who is normally the Air Liaison Officer of the unit receiving the drop.

  2. Supplies will be dropped at an altitude of 25 feet or less above terrain and a speed of 105 knots indicated.

  3. Bomb bays will be loaded with packaged supplies by Air Delivery Units. The intervalometer will be set for 20' to avoid entangling and dispersion. Release will be 20 yards before impact point as controlled by signal officer.

    In order to avoid the possibility of premature drops, bomb bay doors should be kept closed until just prior to reaching dropping point.

  4. Initial Point - as directed by Commander Support Aircraft.

  5. Planes will arrive over initial point and after setting up communications with ground forces will shift planes to column formation and begin circle to left. When lead plane is called to make approach it will break off for approach and next aircraft in column will follow after a two (2) minute interval. Planes whose drop is not completed will return to initial point and join column behind last plane. All those dropping successfully will join up and upon completion of the delivery the group leader will report to Commander Support Aircraft for further orders.

  6. Commander Support Aircraft will advise latest known position of friendly troops.

  7. Condensed Air-Ground Communications for packaged drops. (See enclosure 3)

    Radio, visual and Air Group Leader will be used in the above order in case of communications break down. Radio and Visual communications should be used to the utmost to insure success in receiving supplies.

App 1(e) - G-3

ENCLOSURE 2
EQUIPMENT PACKED

AMMUNITION TYPE & CAL No.
CONT
  CONT
RDS PER
  TOTAL
RDS
  WGT
CONT
TOTAL
WGT

57 mm AP 25   16   408   290 7,250
Mortar; 60 mm 34   36   1224   208 7,172
Mortar; 81 mm M56(Heavy) 23   16   360   312 7,176
Mortar; 81 mm M43(Light) 19   27   450   300 5,700
Mortar; 81 mm M57(Smoke) 6   16   90   312 1,872
Grenades, AT M9A1 7   65   460   243 1,701
Grenades, Frag Hand 7   128   900   305 2,135
Amm AP M1 8rd clip, band 23   2 boxes 46 boxes 245 5,635
Amm AP 5rd clip, band 3   2 boxes 6 boxes 245 2,695
Amm Tracer 8rd clip, band 6   2 boxes 12 boxes 245 1,470
Amm Tracer 5rd clip, band 3   2 boxes 6 boxes 245 735
Amm 50 Cal. 13 slings 2 boxes 26 boxes 225 2,925
Amm 30 cal., 4-1 AP&Tracer 16 slings 2 boxes 32 boxes 225 3,600
Amm Carbine, M1 4 slings 2 boxes 8 boxes 175 700
37 mm shell, M63 3   60   180   310 930
37 mm shell M51 3   60   180   340 1,020
37 mm cannister M2 2   50   100   250 500
Pyrotechnics & 4.5 cal. 1   1 box 1 box 250 250

  172 A-10 Containers
  33 Amm Slings 53,466
Rations, water and medical supplies will be drawn from CVE stores if required.

App 1(e) - G-4

ENCLOSURE 3

CONDENSED AIR-GROUND COMMUNICATIONS FOR PACKAGED DROPS

RADIO VISUAL AIR GROUP LEADER
Display panels Pyrotechnic Code:2 start shell RED RED fired from air Identifying friendly troops from air by colored smoke
Ready to receive at Impact Point "Target Area" displayed X (Panel) Mark XVI colored smoke hand grenades GREEN identified form air
Ground forces will talk each plane over target and signal release Ground Forces using Standard Carrier Landing Signals except "Take a wave off" will mean do not drop. "Cut" will mean release packaged supplies. Ground Officer will signal from position where smoke pot is showing direction of wind. Phosphorescent signal flags to be used. Will observe and give signals of correct approach and signal of drop by inter-plane communications will remain over target at desireable altitude and direct following plane. Smoke grenades will mark rectangle for Impact Point if panels not available or practicable.
Cease dropping of packaged supplies X-Panel will be removed Will cease drops by inter-plane communication. Smoke grenades will mark dropping area in so far as possible.
Completion of packaged drop Pyrotechnic Code:2 star shell GREEN GREEN fired from air Inter-plane communications will have planes join up and return to base when directed by Commander Support Aircraft.

App 1(e) - G-5

APPENDIX 2 TO ANNEX G TO CANF, SWPA OP-PLAN 13-44.

  1. Communications will be in accordance with Annex N to CANF, SWPA OP-PLAN 13-44.

  2. Frequencies and the respective nets are listed below:

    *1. Support Air Direction (SAD-1) (North) 140.58 mcs
      Support Air Direction (SAD-2) (South) 142.74 mcs
      Support Air Direction (SAD-3) (PANAON) 4915 kcs
    *2. Support Air Direction Emergency (SAD-E-1) (North) 4915 kcs
      Support Air Direction Emergency (SAD-E-2) (South) 5135 kcs
    #2-A. Support Air Direction Emergency (SAD-E-3) (PANAON) 140.58 mcs
      Support Air Request (SAR-1) (North) (P) 4650 kcs
        (S) 4760 kcs
      Support Air Request (SAR-2) (South) (P) 3820 kcs
        (S) 3960 kcs
      Support Air Request - Observation (SAR-SAO03) (PANAON) (P) 4760 kcs
        (S) 4615 kcs
      Support Air Observation (SAO-1) (1st Cav.) (North) 3080 kcs
      Support Air Observation (SAO-2) (24th Inf.Div.) (North) 3400 kcs
      Support Air Observation (SAO-3) (7th Inf.Div) (South) 3175 kcs
      Support Air Observation (SAO-4) (96th Inf.Div.) (South) 3280 kcs
      Artillery Spot (Aerial) (1st Cav.Div.) (North) 4600 kcs
      Artillery Spot (Aerial) (24th Inf.Div.) (North) 4980 kcs
      Artillery Spot (Aerial) (10th Corps) (North) 5235 kcs
      Artillery Spot (Aerial) (7th Inf.Div.) (South) 3865 kcs
      Artillery Spot (Aerial) (9th Inf.Div.) (South) 4510 kcs
      Artillery Spot (Aerial) (24th Corps) (South) 6035 kcs
    *3. Local Air Warning (LAW) (P) 3115 kcs
    *4. General and Local Air Warning Net (S) 3355 kcs
    *5. General Warning Net (P) 3000 kcs
    *6. Inter Fighter DIrector (IFD) (VHF) (P) 37.6 mcs
    *7. Inter Fighter Director (IFD) (HF) (S) 2096 kcs
    *8. Fighter Direction - Objective Area (FD-OA) and During Approach 142.02 mcs
      Fighter Direction - Emergency Objective Area (FD-E-OA) 142.74 mcs
      FIghter DIrection - Objective Area (FD-OA) (HF) (S) 6195 kcs
    *9. Inter Commander Support Aircraft (ICSA) (P) 43.3 mcs
      Inter Commander Support Aircraft (ICSA) (S) (HF) 2096 kcs
    *10. Air-Sea Rescue (P) 4475 kcs
      Air-Sea Rescue (S) 140.58 mcs
     
    #2-A. If Army Planes make a strike on PANAON they will report in on 140.58 mcs and will be directed to shift to 142.74 mcs for direction of strike.
    *1. Support aircraft reporting to CSA (North) shall use 140.58 mcs until directed to shift to SAD-Emergency (North).
    Support Aircraft reporting to CSA (South) shall use 142.74 mcs until directed to shift to SAD-Emergency (South).
    Support aircraft reporting to CSA (PANAON) shall use 4915 kcs until directed to shift to SAD-E(PANAON).

APP-2-G-1

    2* Advance CSA will use SAD-E (4915 kcs) as primary frequency on A-3, A-2 and A-1 Days.
    3* One LAW net shall be used by all forces and shall be controlled by CSACP unless otherwise designated.
    4* The frequency 3355 kcs is used as a secondary for the General Warning Net, as secondary for the LAW net, and as a Hunter Killer net. CSACP will order certain aircraft and escort vessels normally using the LAW net for anti-submarine and Hunter Killer communications to shift to 3355 kcs. This will be done only when need for such a shift becomes apparent.
    5* 3000 kcs is used as a warning net by ships of the expeditionary force enroute to or departing from the objective area or when on special detail away from the main body of the expeditionary force, by ships not attached to the expeditionary force such as the fast carriers, etc., by commanders task forces or task groups for an inter force emergency communication (For example, a fast carrier task group commander may call an amphibious group commander to warn the latter of an approaching air raid).
    *6. IFD (VHF) (P) shall be used when radio silence is in effect and in general shall be used whenever possible.
    *7. IFG (HF) (S) may be used when no radio silence restrictions are in effect and when IFG (VHF) will not reach stations desired.
    *8. One Fighter Direction Objective-Area net will be used for control of the CAP. Fleet Fighter Director will be aboard the USS WASATCH with fighter director teams in destroyers.
    *9. Commanders of Carrier Task Groups shall use ICSA ({) or (S) for communications directly with Commanders of Support Aircraft and vice-versa.
    *10. For Air-Sea Rescue - 4475 kcs is frequency for communication boat to air and air to boat between aircraft and MTB (Motor Torpedo Boats). VHF (S) 140.58 mcs shall be used for Air-Sea Rescue only in cases of emergency and is not to be used boat to boat.
    4475 kcs is Army's Support Air Direction (HF) frequency.
    NOTE: All itinerant and land-based aircraft coming within 75 miles of "PT. MOLLY" will report in to CSACP on 142.74 mcs (VHF). CSACP's call in Halifax.

APP-2-G-2

      (See enclosure (a) for frequency, station and Net Table).

  1. Calls shall be as follows:
    (a) Air Coordinator (North) ELMHURST
      Air Coordinator (South) BLAZER
      Air Coordinator (PANAON) PINKEY
    Air Liaison Observer (1st Cav. Div.) (North) JOURNAL
    Air Liaison Observer (24th Inf. Div.) (North) TWINKLE
    Air Liaison Observer (7th Div.) (South) GLORIA
    Air Liaison Observer (96th Div.) (South) PARSON
    Air Liaison Observer (21st RCT) (PANAON) CATFISH
    Artillery Spotter (aerial) (1st Cav. Div.) (North) CHEMIST
    Artillery Spotter (aerial (24th Inf. Div.) (North) HUNTER
    Artillery Spotter (aerial) (10th Corps) (North) TURBAN
    Artillery Spotter (aerial) (7th Inf. Div.) (South) DEWEY
    Artillery Spotter (aerial) (96th Inf. Div.) (South) CRONY
    Artillery Spotter (aerial) (24th Corps) (South) WHISKEY
    Com Support Aircraft Pacific HAMLET
    *1. Com Support Aircraft Central Philippines (CSACP) HALIFAX
    Com Support Aircraft (NORAT FOR) BEEHIVE
    Com Support Aircraft (NORATFOR) (STANDBY) BELFAST
    Com Support Aircraft (NORATFOR) (Landing Force) HOBSON
    Com Support Aircraft (SOATFOR) VIRTUE
    Com Support Aircraft (SOATFOR) (Landing Force) BOWLER
    Com Support Aircraft (SOATFOR) (STANDBY) BRADSHAW
    Com Support Aircraft (SOATFOR) (2nd STANDBY) HAWTHORNE
    Com Support Aircraft (PANAON) PLAYMATE
    Com Support Aircraft (PANAON) (STANDBY) COMPASS
    Com Task Force 77 V. Adm. Kinkaid) CODLIVER
    Com Task Group 77.1 (V. Adm. Kinkaid) KNUCKLE
    Com Task Group 77.2 (R. Adm. Oldendorf) DUMMY
    Com Task Group 77.3 (R.Adm. Berkey) COMPOUND
    Com Task Force 78 (R. Adm. Barbey) (NORATFOR) DISCONNECT
    Com Task Group 78.1 (R. Adm. Barbey) PACKARD
    Com Task Group 78.2 (R. Adm. Fechteler) DIXIE BELLE
    Com Task Group 78.3 (R. Adm. Struble) DEMERIT
    Com Task Force 79 (V. Adm. Wilkinson) (SOATFOR) FULLDRESS
    Com Task Group 79.1 (R. Adm. Conolly) FRANCO
    Com Task Group 79.2 (R. Adm. Royal) WHITESOX
    Com Task Group 79.3 HILLSDALE
    Com Gen Northern Lanfor (10th Corps) DOVER
    Com Gen Southern Lanfor (24th Corps) UTAH
    Com Task Group 77.4 (CVE's) (R. Adm. T.L. Sprague) TAFFY
    Com Task Unit 77.4.1 (CVE's) TAFFY 1
    Com Task Unit 77.4.2 (CVE's) TAFFY 2
    Com Task Unit 77.4.3 (CVE's) TAFFY 3
    Com Task Unit 77.4.4 (CVE's) TAFFY 4
    Com Task Unit 77.4.5 (CVE's) TAFFY 5
    Air-Sea Rescue Base-CSACP HALIFAX

APP-2-G-3

    Air-Sea Rescue Motor Torpedo Boat MARTINI-Plus # of boat
    *2. Photographic Planes
    Example: Call for flight leader of first (ABLE) flight of Photographic planes in any one day from 77.4.9 would be GRAPHIC-9-ABLE
    GRAPHIC-Plus digit of TU and flight number
    Smoke Planes
    Example: Call for flight leader of first (ABLE) flight of Smoke Planes in any one day from TU 77.4.9 would be SMOKEY-9-ABLE
    SMOKEY-Plus last digit of TU and flight number
    Supply Planes
    Example: Call for flight leader of first (ABLE) flight of Supply Planes in any one day from TU 77.4.9 would be SUPPY-9-ABLE
    SUPPY -- Plus last digit of TU and flight number
    NOTE:
    *1. On A-3, A-2 and A-1 days, Advance CSA will be aboard USS TENNESSEE, and his call shall be HALIFAX.
    *2. All photo planes in North Objective area use 140.58 mcs and report to CSA North. All photo planes in South objective area 142.74 mcs and report to CSA South.
    3(b) Carriers
    Gambier Bay (CVE 73) CATNIP
    Kadashan Bay (CVE 76) EMPIRE
    Kalanin Bay (CVE 68) GEORGIA
    Kitkun Bay (CVE 71) DEXTER
    Manila Bay (CVE 61) CIRCUS
    Marcus Island (CVE 77) FAMOUS
    Natoma Bay (CVE 62) BANJO
    Ommaney Bay (CVE 79) GALLEY
    Petrof Bay (CVE 80) GEISHA
    Saginaw Bay (CVE 82) HAPPY
    Savo Island (CVE 78) FLAPPER
    White Plains (CVE 66) FIDO
    Fanshaw Bay (CVE 70) BENDIX
    Midway (CVE 63) DERBY
    Sangamon (CVE 26) LOCUST
    Suwanee (CVE 27) JOKER
    Chenango (CVE 28) NORDIC
    Santee (CVE 29) AUBURN
    NOTE: Carriers will add "BASE" to ship call when used as fighter director.

APP-2-G-4

    3(c) Air Liaison Parties    
    C.G. 1ST CAV. DIV SABER
    ALP 1ST CAV. DIV. UNCLE 01
    ALP 1ST CAB. BRIGADE UNCLE 11
    ALP 5TH RCT UNCLE 50
    ALP 1/5 SQUAD. UNCLE 51
    ALP 2/5 SQUAD UNCLE 52
    ALP 12 RCT UNCLE 120
    ALP 1/12 SQUAD. UNCLE 121
    ALP 2/12 SQUAD. UNCLE 122
    ALP 2ND CAV. BRIGADE UNCLE 21
    ALP 7TH RCT UNCLE 70
    ALP 1/7 SQUAD. UNCLE 71
    ALP 2/7 SQUAD. UNCLE 72
    ALP 8TH RCT UNCLE 80
    ALP 1/8 SQUAD. UNCLE 81
    ALP 2/8 SQUAD. UNCLE 82
    COM GEN 24TH INF. DIV.   DANGER
    ALP 24TH INF. DIV. UNCLE 24
    ALP0 19TH RCT UNCLE 190
    ALP 1/19 BLT UNCLE 191
    ALP 2/19 BLT UNCLE 192
    ALP 3/19 BLT UNCLE 193
    ALP 34TH RCT UNCLE 340
    ALP 1/34 BLT UNCLE 341
    ALP 2/34 BLT UNCLE 342
    ALP 3/34 BLT UNCLE 343
    ALP 21ST RCT PANAON AREA UNCLE 210
    ALP 1/21 BLT PANAON AREA UNCLE 211
    ALP 2/21 BLT PANAON AREA UNCLE 212
    ALP 3/21 BLT PANAON AREA UNCLE 213
    CO 98TH RANGERS BN PANAON AREA UNCLE 98
    ALP 1/98 BLT PANAON AREA UNCLE 98
    CG 7TH INF. DIV. FIJI
    ALP 7ATH INF. DIV. UNCLE 07
    ALP 17TH RCT UNCLE 170
    ALP 1/17 BLT UNCLE 171
    ALP 2/17 BLT UNCLE 172
    ALP 3/17 BLT UNCLE 173
    ALP 32ND RCT UNCLE 320
    ALP 1/32 BLT UNCLE 321
    ALP 2/32 BLT UNCLE 322
    ALP 3/32 BLT UNCLE 323
    ALP 184TH RCT UNCLE 840

APP-2-G-5

      ALP 1/184 BLT UNCLE 841
    ALP 2/184 BLT UNCLE 842
    ALP 3/184 BLT UNCLE 843
    CG 96th Inf. Div. TEACHER
    ALP 96th Inf. Div. UNCLE 69
    ALP 381 RCT UNCLE 810
    ALP 1/381 BLT UNCLE 811
    ALP 2/381 BLT UNCLE 812
    ALP 3/381 BLT UNCLE 813
    ALP 382nd RCT UNCLE 820
    ALP 1/382 BLT UNCLE 821
    ALP 2/382 BLT UNCLE 822
    ALP 3/382 BLT UNCLE 823
    ALP 383rd RCT UNCLE 830
    ALP 1/383 BLT UNCLE 831
    ALP 2/383 BLT UNCLE 832
    ALP 3/383 BLT UNCLE 833
    3(d) Fighter director base calls for units at the objective will be as follows:
      USS Wasatch Pepsicola Base
    USS Mt. Olympus Whirlpool Base
    USS Blue Ridge Nemo Base
    USS Appalachian Hangman Base
    USS Rocky Mount Dynamite Base
    USS Fremont Burlesque Base
    USS Barnstable Spectator Base
    USS Elmore Vishnu Base
    USS Bailey Slingshot Base
    USS Bennion Powder Base
    USS Bryant Gabriel Base
    USS Franks Parlor Base
    USS Hale Meadow Base
    USS Hazelwood Mountain Base
    USS Hughes Drawing Base
    USS Jenkins Occidental Base
    USS Lang Clockwork Base
    USS Luce Claremont Base
    USS McGowan Carrot Base
    USS Murray Vertical Base
    USS Mustin Garbage Base
    USS Nicholas Hayride Base
    USS Schroeder Scarless Base
    USS Stembel Elijah Base
    USS Wickes Color Base

APP-2-G-6

    3(e) Shore-base Fighter Director call of the objective are will be:
      40th Fighter Control Center Holding
    40th Fighter Control Center (call sign) K71
    Radar Stations Voice Call
         RS-632 8IR
         RS-633 80R
         RS-634 9BU
         RS-635 6QK
         RS-636 6NC
         RS-404 QS8
         RS-407 TC44
         RS-413 LI61
         RS-522 E149
         RS-523 1WX
         RS-527 GS8
          K17
         All the above will tell to Fighter Director Ships on 2096 kcs.

         Temporary F.C.C. will also tell on 2096 kcs.

  1. Air-Sea Rescue Communications.

    1. Aircraft on Support Aircraft Missions.

      1. These aircraft will be in direct contact with CSA (North or South) on Support Air Direction (VHF) or Local Air Warning (HF) or Support Air Observations (HF). They will transmit direct to CSA if in distress, giving distance and bearing from appropriate reference point. (See appendix 4 to Annex G to CANF, SWPA OP-PLAN 13-44.)

      2. CSA in turn calls Air-Sea Rescue Base on Air-Sea Rescue frequency (4475 kcs); ICSA; Local Air Warning (3115 kcs); or TBS. (In case of emergency the General Warning Net 3000 kcs may be used). use the above order of preference to request craft be sent to rescue, giving the vital information.

    2. Aircraft on missions other than Support Aircraft.

      1. These aircraft, if in distress, will transmit to parent base over Search and reconnaissance, special frequency, or any VHF channel, giving distance and bearing from appropriate reference point. (See Appendix 4 to Annex

APP-2-G-7

        G to CANF, SWPA Op-PLAN 13-44.)

      1. Parent base will re-transmit to CSACP on Air-Sea Rescue Frequency (4475 kcs). If radio silence is necessary, an airborne plane from parent base will re-transmit to CSACP on VHF.

    1. Fighter Escort and other aircraft may communicate with Air-Sea Rescue craft on 140.58 mcs and 4475 kcs.

      NOTE: If aircraft on other than Support Air Missions are in vicinity of objective area and are equipped to call CSSACP on Primary Rescue Frequency (4475 kcs), they may call CSDACP directly if in distress.

ENCLOSURE.

  1. Table of Support Aircraft Frequencies, Nets, and Stations for Accumulation.

APP-2-G-8

(ENCLOSURE (A)
SUPPORT AIRCRAFT RADIO FREQUENCY, NET and STATON TABLE for ACCUMULATION.

Key:


STATIONS:
Note: Artillery spot planes not included.
140.58
SAD-1
(North)
142.74
SAD-2
(South)
4915
SAD-3
(PANAON)
4915 SAD-E-1 (North) 5135
SAD-E-2 (South)
140.58
SAD-E-3
(PANAON)
4650 SAR-1
(North)
3820
SAR-2
(South)
4760
SAR-SAO-3
(PANAON)
3115
Local
Air
Warning
(LAW)
3000
General
Warning
Net(P)
3355
Gen.
Local
Warning(S)
37.6
Inter-
Fight
Dir
(VHF)(P)
2096
Inter-
Fight
Dir.
(HF)(S)
142.02
Fighter
Dir.-
Obj.Area
142.74
FD-EOA-
(S)(VHF)
6195
FD-OD
(HF)(S)
3080
SAO-1
(1st CavInf)
(No)
3400
SAO-2
(24th Div)
(North)
3175
SAO-3
(7th Div)
(South)
3280
SAO-4
(96th Div)
(South)
4475
Air-Sea
Rescue
(P)
140.58
Air-Sea
Rescue
(S)
34.3
Inter-
CSA
(P)
2096
Inter-
CSA
(S)
AIRCRAFT: Itinerant & land-based.   X   S                                   S      
Air Coordinator (North) X S   S S               S                 S S    
Air Coordinator (South) S X   S S               S                 S S    
Air Coordinator (PANAON) S S X   S               S                 S S    
Air Liaison Obs. (1st Cav.Div.) S                                 X       S S    
Air Liaison Obs. (24th InfDiv) S                                   X     S S    
Air Liaison Obs. (7th Div.)   S                                   X   S S    
Air Liaison Obs. (96th Div)   S                                     X S S    
Air Liaison Obs. (21st RCT)     X           X                         S S    
Anti-Sub Patrol S S               X   S                   S S    
Combat Air Patrol- Obj.Area S S                           X S         S S    
Hunter Killer Aircraft S S               X   S                   S S    
Photo Planes X X X S S S                               S S    
Smoke Planes   X X S S S                               S S    
Rescue- Air-Sea S S               X S S                   X S    
Support Aircraft (North) X S   S                                   S S    
Support Aircraft (South) X S     S                                 S S    
Support Aircraft (PANAON)   X S   S                                 S S    
Air Defense Command                   X X S X X X X           X S X  
ALP's (1st Cav Div) X     S     X                     M              
ALP's (24th Inf Div) X     S     X                       M            
ALP's (7th Inf Div)   X     S     X                       M          
ALP's (96th Inf Div)   X     S     X                         M        
ALP's (21st RCT)     X     S     X                                
All Ships enroute or leaving area                   S X                            

Page (1) to ENCLOSURE (A)

(ENCLOSURE (A)
SUPPORT AIRCRAFT RADIO FREQUENCY, NET and STATON TABLE for ACCUMULATION.

Key:


STATIONS:
Note: Artillery spot planes not included.
140.58
SAD-1
(North)
142.74
SAD-2
(South)
4915
SAD-3
(PANAON)
4915 SAD-E-1 (North) 5135
SAD-E-2 (South)
140.58
SAD-E-3
(PANAON)
4650 SAR-1
(North)
3820
SAR-2
(South)
4760
SAR-SAO-3
(PANAON)
3115
Local
Air
Warning
(LAW)
3000
General
Warning
Net(P)
3355
Gen.
Local
Warning(S)
37.6
Inter-
Fight
Dir
(VHF)(P)
2096
Inter-
Fight
Dir.
(HF)(S)
142.02
Fighter
Dir.-
Obj.Area
142.74
FD-EOA-
(S)(VHF)
6195
FD-OD
(HF)(S)
3080
SAO-1
(1st CavInf)
(No)
3400
SAO-2
(24th Div)
(North)
3175
SAO-3
(7th Div)
(South)
3280
SAO-4
(96th Div)
(South)
4475
Air-Sea
Rescue
(P)
140.58
Air-Sea
Rescue
(S)
34.3
Inter-
CSA
(P)
2096
Inter-
CSA
(S)
All ships, objective area                   X                              
Battleships and Cruisers (*1)                   S                       S S    
Com CV-CVL Task Groups X X   X X   L L L S X   M X   X           X S X X
Com CVE Task Group X X   X X   L L L S X   X X   X           X S X X
Com Support Air-Cent.Ph. X X X   X   L L L C C C X X X X X L L L X C C C C
Com Support Air-NorAtFor C     C     C     X X X X X X X X C C     X X X X
CSA--NorAtFor-Standby X     X     X     X X X S S S S S X X     X S X X
CSA-NorAtFor-LandFor X     X     X     X X S S S S S S X X     X S X X
Com Support Air-SoAtFor   C     C     C   X X X X X X X X     C C X X X X
CSA-SoAtFor-
Standby 1
  X     X     X   X X X S S S S S     X X X S X X
CSA-SoAtFor-
Standby 2
  X     X     X   X X X S S S S S     X X X S X X
CSA-SoAtFor-LandFor   X     X     X   X X X S S S S S     X X X S X X
Com Support Air-PANAON     C     C     C X X X X X X X X         X X X X
CSA-PANAON-Standby     X     X     X X X X S S S S S         X S X X
CSACP-Advance S S   X           X X X     X S           X S X X
Fighter Director-Fleet S S S   S       X X   C C C C C                  
Fighter Director-Forces S S S   S               X X X X X                
Fighter Dir. Desig. DD S S S   S         X M   X X X X X                
Screening Vessels                   X   S                          
MTB - Base and Craft                                           X S    
CG - 1st Cav. Div.                                   X              
CG - 24th Inf. Div.                                   X              
CG - 7th Inf. Div.                                       X          
CG - 96th Inf. Div.                                         X        
CG - 10th Corps                                   X X            
CG - 24th Corps                                       X X        
*1 - When on duty status to furnish SCC/OS2U Rescue Aircraft.

Page (2) to ENCLOSURE (A)

Appendix 3 - Annex "G"

AIR OPERATIONS CHART


Air Operations Chart

APP. 3 - G-1

AIR-SEA RESCUE

Appendix 4 - Annex "G"
  1. Responsibility.

    1. Responsibility for rescue of flight personnel forced down in any type of air operation connected with amphibious assault resides with CTF 77 after his arrival in the objective area. CSA, CenPhilAtFor, will receive and coordinate all reports of downed aviators, suggest appropriate rescue measures, and provide necessary aircraft, ships or boats for rescue missions from those available as ordered by CTF 77. On A-3, A-2 and A-1 days responsibility for air-sea rescue rests with CTG 77.2 whose Advance CSA on those days will perform the functions listed above for CSA CenPhilAtFor.

    2. Prompt action is most necessary to save lives. It is expected that any unit of this command will not only report to his Force or Group Commander any survivors and crashes observed, but will take further action as practicable without further orders provided (1) Action taken is reported immediately to his Force or Group Commander, and (2) The unit is not at the time engaging the enemy directly or supporting other units that are engaging the enemy. It is essential that common sense rules of seamanship be followed to prevent collisions and danger to personnel in the water.

    3. Normally Attack Force Commanders will see that the action listed in paragraph 2 is promptly initiated within his zone of air responsibility or vicinities adjacent thereto (as shown in Appendix 3 to this annex.) where his forces can most expeditiously perform the rescue. When there is any doubt as to who can effect the quickest rescue, both will initiate rescue operations and report their actions to CSACP.

    4. Reports of all downed aircraft will be made immediately to CSA, CenPhil, giving the call of the reporting unit, position of the forced landing, plus other pertinent information amplified as more information becomes available.

    5. CSACP keep parent bases of downed aircraft personnel fully advised and coordinates measures to provide for their ultimate return to their patent bases.

    6. CTF 77 will have the following facilities available for air-sea rescue:

      1. Ships and aircraft of other commands in the area. Under some circumstances the forces of another commander may be able to effect a more expeditious rescue, and such usage will be requested by ComCenPhilAtFor as necessary. Subsequent to A minus 3 Day there will be no friendly submarines operating in sheltered waters within a radius of 100 miles of Point MOLLY which is MOUNT MAJUYAG on LEYTE ISLAND (See App.5 of Annex "G").

      2. PBY Dumbo Aircraft. Seaplane tenders and PBY aircraft will be brought into the objective area when directed by CTF 77 depending on the tactical situation and the practicability of their use.

APP. 4 - G - 1

  1. Reporting Survivors.

    1. In the interests of security as well as simplicity, reference points are established in those areas where it is anticipated that the majority of water landings will occur. These points are to be used in reporting the positions of all forced landings throughout this operation and for no other purpose.

    2. The following reference point is established:

      Area Point Geographical Coordinates
      SAMAR ISLAND SUNGI POINT Lat. 10° 55'N,Long.125°50'E

    3. Code names for SUNGI POINT and any additional reference points which may be established, will be disseminated later; by dispatch if necessary. Reference points will not be referred to except by the established code name which will be changed daily as follows:

      1. Beginning at 1800 GCT on A-3, the top name on the list will be used. On each successive day the next code name on the list is used until the last name is reached, after which return to the top of the list and repeat the process.

      2. Code names change each day at 1800 GCT.

      3. Code names are provided for every day. It is obvious that on many days they will not be needed as no operations will take place in the particular area. Nevertheless, the names will continue to rotate.

      4. Beginning with A-Day, radar reference reporting point "MOLLY", as shown in Appendix 5 to this annex, may be used as an additional point in reporting downed aircraft in accordance with standard conventions, i.e., '18 MOLLY 180' means "18 miles, 180°T from MOLLY." The name of this point will not change.

    4. Charts are being prepared for each reference point, with the reference point at the center and bearing and distance lines overprinted. They afford a ready means of determining the position of survivors quite accurately and will be carried by all pilots when operating in the area of the particular reference point. Distribution is limited ot activities requiring their use.

    5. The position of any forced landing or survivor is to be repeated in bearing and distance from the nearest reference point. Three words are given:

      1. Distance in nautical miles from reference point.

      2. Code word for reference point used.

      3. True bearing from reference point.

      EXAMPLE: "15 (Code Name) 180". Meaning survivor (or survivors) down 15 miles bearing 180° true from SAMAR reference point.

      Any departure from this system compromises the position of the survivors and exposes the rescue facilities to the danger of enemy duplicity. It is expected that the nearest reference point will be used even though the place of the incident is not on a reference point chart.

APP. 4 - G - 2

    1. In addition to position, the identity and condition of survivors is necessary for efficient rescue operations and should also be reported following the position report in the following order:

      1. The TBS code call of the parent ship or base should be stated where known.

      2. The fighter director code word for the type aircraft if known.

      3. The condition of survivors in accordance with the following words:

        GOODYEAR  -  Survivor(s) in raft.
        YELLOWJACKET  -  Survivor(s) in jackets.
        DAVEY JONES  -  Survivor(s) without life jackets.

      4. The number of survivors.

      5. If dye marker is showing, the word "EVERGREEN" should be added.

        EXAMPLE: 15 Only Change 180 LOCUST CHICKEN GOODYEAR ONE EVERGREEN. This means: "One fighter pilot of the SANGAMON down 15 miles bearing 180° true from the reference point in a life raft with dye marker showing."

  1. OPERATING PROCEDURE.

    1. Individual initiative and skill in the varying situations that may arise is a prime essential to any efficient rescue service. however, on the basis of experience to date, certain "tactics" for rescue have been developed, which are set forth for guidance of all concerned.

      1. Any units engaged on rescue missions shall keep the directing agency informed of progress being made. It is particularly important that successful completion of a mission be promptly reported to avoid unnecessary additional missions. This is also a big factor in the morale of all pilots.

      2. VOS aircraft are well adapted to missions in sheltered waters particularly in places where surface craft cannot go. Their limitations are small carrying capacity and vulnerability to rough or open sea conditions.

      3. Dumbo PBY's are well adapted to search for survivors. Because of their endurance, they can also orbit survivors when found, and direct surface craft to the spot. They are especially equipped to drop supplemental emergency gear to survivors at sea.

      4. Open-sea landing for rescue aircraft should be avoided; it should be attempted in emergencies only when no surface rescue vessels are available.

      5. Pilots are briefed to make forced landings to leeward of enemy territory if possible, so that their drift will be away from the hostile shore. If it is necessary to attempt rescue close to enemy territory, heavy VF escort should be provided to silence shore fire. The decision as to the feasibility of completing a rescue lies with the Rescue Unit Commander.

      6. Fighter cover will be provided for all rescue missions, if practicable, and when the circumstances dictate their employment. Radio or visual communication between rescue craft and its cover shall be established. In addition to protection from the enemy, VF cover will prevent own forces attacking friendly air or surface rescue units and will assist in search for the survivors.

APP. 4 - G - 3

      1. As a general principle, any survivor, once sighted, should be kept under continuous observation until rescued. The "sighting" aircraft shall report the survivors as outlined herein. In addition, but not to interfere with a tactical mission, the "sighting" aircraft or its accompanying plane, shall use emergency IFF, orbit at an altitude equal to 1000 feet for each 10 miles from base, and remain in the vicinity until relieved on station or forced to return to base. Not more than two (2) aircraft of a flight should orbit a survivor or group of survivors; combat schedules must not be disrupted. it is good procedure for one (1) aircraft to remain low and close to the survivor while the other seeks out and guides a ship to the spot. An aircraft over the survivor should zoom him on a course perpendicular to the approach course of the ship. Any aircraft guiding a rescue unit may direct its course by radio, or may maneuver to indicate direction. In the latter case, the ship is circled twice and aircraft then fly in the direction of the survivor.

      2. Night rescue can be accomplished by surface ships. The following rescue signalling procedure is in use by submarines and may be used by other surface ships on a rescue mission. The surface ship fires green Very's stars at intervals when in the general area; the survivor replies by a red (Standard color in emergency equipment) Very's star, should he have it available. The surface ship then replies with 2 green stars. Further signals can be exchanged as necessary to aid the approach of the ship. In or near enemy waters or territory, possible enemy deception must be considered before employing this procedure.

Air-Sea Rescue Frequencies

APP. 4 - G - 4

APPENDIX 5 TO ANNEX G, CANF OP - PLAN 13-44.

FIGHTER DIRECTOR PLAN
  1. General Information.

    1. Fighter Direction in this type of operation is conducted from Headquarters Ships, Carriers, Destroyers and shore based Fighter Control Centers.

    2. There will be a Force, Group or Unit Fighter Director Officer on the Staff of Commander Support Aircraft on all Headquarters Ships. Whenever the disposition is a TASK Group or a TASK Unit, then the term Force Fighter DIrector, as used herein, shall become Group Fighter Director or Unit Fighter Director.

    3. Special Fighter Director teams under the control of a Fighter Director Officer will be placed aboard designated Fighter Directory Destroyers.

    4. Special units of the garrison forces will land with the assault forces to establish early air warning and Fighter Control Centers ashore. Emphasis shall be placed upon landing, installing and calibrating the CGI equipment within the shortest practicable time.

    5. Raids by number will be designated by the Force Fighter Director when the tactical situation so demands.

    6. For Inter-Fighter Director Communications relative to the condition of flight deck, number of fighters available, etc., use standard Inter-Fighter Director code (See CentComTWO).

    7. When referring to all Radar Equipment and Fighter Direction and warning circuits use appropriate initials on Inter-Fighter Direction Nets. (e.g., SC,SK,IFD,LAW, etc.).

    8. When referring to a fade use the expressions "I do not see Raid I, Do you see Raid I, etc."

    9. A listening watch shall be maintained at all times of the IFD net by all Fighter Direction Units.

    10. All Fighter Direction Units shall maintain a listening watch on all FIghter Direction Circuits whenever a CAP is airborne. However, permission to test with CAP must be obtained from the primary Fighter Director. The fighter net shall not be used for inter-fighter director transmissions except in an emergency or unless so directed.

    11. Commencing with the night of A-Day and until land-based night-fighters are operational from LEYTE, no friendly aircraft are expected to operate over or near the objective area during the hours of darkness.

    1. Two anti-shipping sweep areas (#1 and #2) are shown on air operations chart (app.3); these may be swept as directed by CSA.

APP. 5 - G - 1

  1. Fighter Direction Control.

    1. Commander Support Aircraft, (CSA Central Philippines or as otherwise designated), as the direct representative of the OTC, shall be responsible for air defense and have control of Fighter Direction and the Combat Air Patrol during the approach and assault phases, and at the objective area thereafter until air defense responsibility is transferred as outlined in paragraph 7 of Annex G. He shall designate the Fighter Director ship or unit to exercise primary and secondary control for the various phases of the operation, and recommend stations for such ships or units form time to time so as to secure the most effective fighter direction coverage. He shall initiate all requests to Carriers or Shore bases for Combat Air Patrols and for additional fighters in an emergency. Whenever he leaves the area temporarily and before the Air Task Force Commander has taken control he shall:

      1. Designate the Primary Fighter Director Ship or Air Warning unit that is to remain and control the Combat Air Patrol.

      2. Arrange for the relief of the Combat Air Patrol then on station if practicable.

      3. Notify the Air Defense Commander, the Fighter Direction ships or Units and the OTC regarding 1 and 2.

    2. Fighter Control Centers. Since the present radar equipment of Fighter Direction Destroyers does not permit an altitude solution sufficiently accurate for the proper control of night fighters, it is essential that night fighters control be passed ashore as soon as the SCR 527 radars can be landed, installed and calibrated. The Fighter Controllers shall keep the Commander Support Aircraft informed of the status of his various facilities as they become operational and when he is in all respects ready to assume control of air defense he shall report this fact to the OTC via Commander Support Aircraft. Prior to the assumption of control by the Commander Allied Air Force, all Fighter Control Centers (Aircraft warning) will be operated under the direction of Commander Support Aircraft. During this period, temporary or partial control may be passed to a shore unit in the same manner as to a Fighter Director Ship.

    3. The Force Fighter Director (as representative of the OTC) shall recommend to Commander Support Aircraft which ships or units shall be primary, secondary or standby Fighter direction units during each phase of the operation and he shall disseminate to such units information on all phases of air operations affecting Fighter Direction. he shall exercise control and anti-aircraft fire and searchlight illumination afloat and ashore. To coordinate use of aircraft and anti-aircraft fire to insure maximum use of both. (This control will not extend to automatic weapons of ships or units individually under actual attack.) In general, the Force Fighter Director, under Commander Support Aircraft, shall assume the duties and responsibilities

APP. 5 - G - 2

      of the Force Fighter Director, as detailed in USG 10A as applicable. The Group or Unit Fighter Director Officer on the Relief or Standby Headquarters Ship shall be prepared at all times to assume any of the above duties and responsibilities and shall further assist as liaison between commands and Fighter Direction Units.

    1. The Primary Fighter Director, designated by Commander Support Aircraft shall:

      1. Exercise tactical control of the CAP assigned to him for the defense of all forces in his area of responsibility against enemy air or surface attack.

      2. Intercept all unidentified air contacts threatening own forces so far as the number of VF in the CAP may permit, subject to provisions of paragraph (g) below.

      3. Maintain a careful check of fuel and ammunition, the affective fighting time remaining, the duration of the patrol, and the time necessary to return pilots safely to base.

      4. Maintain a continuous plot of all information affecting aerial defense of own forces.

      5. Be responsible that his ship has properly installed and provided the necessary equipment required for successful conduct of fighter direction.

      6. Continue to exercise fighter director and CIC personnel in intercept problems.

      7. Notify the Force Fighter Director of downed aviators that appropriate rescue action may be undertaken.

    2. The Secondary or Standby Fighter Director Units, as designated by Commander Support Aircraft, shall be prepared to assume all the duties and responsibilities of the Primary Fighter Director. In the event control of the CAP is acquired, due to the Unit being in a better position to conduct an interception, or due to an emergency, then Sub paragraphs (1) and (2) of (d) above shall also apply.

    3. Fighter Director Units and Fighter Control Centers having a bogey contact shall report it immediately to the Force Fighter Director on the Inter-Fighter Director net, who in turn will evaluate and transmit it on appropriate warning nets. Subsequent amplifying reports shall be made in the same way. However, if an attack should develop suddenly at close range the ship having contact will immediately take action and make the report directly on the appropriate warning nets.

    4. The primary Fighter Director on detecting an enemy search plane shall inform the Force Fighter Director and commence interception immediately with the object of placing the CAP in position co complete the interception. The Force Fighter Director will advise the OTC of the situation. The decision to complete the interception will be made by the OTC as required by the tactical situation. This same procedure shall be followed in

APP. 5 - G - 3

      respect to a night interception and the night fighter shall hold fire until he makes definite visual contact and establishes bogey identity or until he is instructed to open fire by the Force Fighter Director or the Controlling Fighter Director or the Fighter Controller, whoever is directing the interception.

    1. Control of the CAP during the approach phase shall be as designated by the OTC. Normally control will be in the CVE furnishing the planes for CAP. Control of the CAP at the objective areas on various days will be as designated by Commander Support Aircraft, as the direct representative of the OTC. When Primary Fighter Direction is assigned to a CVE accompanying the TASK FORCE, Group or Unit, all radar reports form Fighter Director ships shall be converted from the CVE as the point of origin rather than from the reporting ship.

    2. The OTC will originate, when appropriate, local rules governing the use of night fighters and establish zones of operation in the objective area.

  1. Air Search Radar Doctrine Relative To Fighter Direction Units.

    1. Fighter Direction Ships shall not be normally assigned Radar Guard ship duty.

    2. Fighter DIrection Units shall have unrestricted use of all radars subject to conditions of radar silence prescribed by OTC. Surface search radars must be used to search for low flying aircraft. Fire Control Radars must be used to investigate side or back lobe echoes, ionic cloud formations, and to determine the altitude of all bogies. The fire control radars are to be released for gunnery purposes prior to targets coming within effective range of the batteries served.

  2. Shore Bombardment.

    1. The possibility exists that a Fighter Director Destroyer, when assigned a fire support mission, will receive material damage (shock of gun fire) that would incapacitate it for further performance of Fighter Direction duty. Therefore, whenever such destroyers are, of necessity, assigned fire support missions, control of CAP shall be shifted to the secondary or other Fighter Direction unit for the duration of the fire support mission.

  3. Hunter Killer Control.

    1. The additional radio equipment and experienced personnel aboard the Fighter Director Destroyers is such that where there is a choice these ships should be given preference in control of the hunter-killer planes.

  4. Combat Air Patrol.

    1. Reporting on Station Procedure.

APP. 5 - G - 4

      1. The flight leader should call the Force Fighter Director giving his voice call, number of planes in flight, time available on station, location and altitude. The Force Fighter DIrector will then instruct the flight leader to report to the primary Fighter Direction Ship which has control at the time. The flight leader will use the same procedure in reporting to the primary Fighter DIrector.

    1. Relieving Procedure.

      1. "The Force FDC shall ascertain, early in the period that a CAP is on station, directly from the CSA if the CAP will be required for support missions. If not he shall instruct the primary fighter direction to return the CAP to base on schedule. If the CAP is desired for support missions planes may be assigned such missions toward the end of their period on station but the missions must be completed prior to the CAP's scheduled time for return to base. Planes used will not expend more than 75% of their ammunition and will resume their station in the CAP as soon as the support mission is completed. The Force FDO will rendezvous planes used for support missions under a flight leader and instruct the flight to shift to the proper SAD frequency and to report to the CSA desiring them for close support missions. The flight leader shall give voice call, number of planes, armament, location, altitude and time available for mission. Planes must be released by or prior to their scheduled time for departure to base.

        [The above paragraph is pasted over the following:]
        Prior to the time the CAP should be relieved, the Force Fighter Director shall ascertain directly from the Commander Support Aircraft if the CAP will be required for a support mission. If not he shall notify the primary Fighter Director to return the CAP to base. If the CAP is required for a support mission the Force Fighter Director shall rendezvous all flights under one or more flight leaders as necessary and instruct the flights to shift to proper S.A.D. frequency and report to the Group CSA desiring them for close support mission. The flight leaders shall give voice call, number of planes, armament, location, atltutide, and time available for the support mission.

    2. Orbit Points.

      1. Various orbit points, reference points and initial points at the several objectives are shown on Appendix 3 of Annex G which will be furnished all carriers, fighter direction and air warning units, and all garrison aviation units. Members of the CAP must be familiar with the location of these points as they will be used by the fighter directors in designating stations for the CAP.

  1. Radar Pickets.

    1. Whenever practicable Fighter Director Destroyers will be employed as Radar Pickets. These Destroyers shall endeavor to obtain from Fire Control Radars altitude solutions on all bogies and relay this information to the Force Fighter Director immediately. These Picket Destroyers shall keep the Force Fighter informed at all times as to the complete Radar picture available to them since control of fighters may be shifted to the ship or shore unit having the most complete information and which is best capable of carrying out an interception. Location of radar pickets at the objective area are shown in Appendix 3 of the Air Plan; additional radar pickets will be assigned by the OTC if needed.

  2. Radar Reporting.

    1. The point of origin of all radar reports at the objective will by "Point Molly" which is MT. MAJUYAG on LEYTE ISLAND. (See Appendix 3 of Annex G). All radar reports form Fighter Director Ships, Radar Pickets, Radar Guardships and shore-based radars will be converted to this point using polar coordinates. Reports will be made in plain language using true bearing and distance in nautical miles.

APP. 5 - G - 5

    1. All reports sent out on General warning and Radar telling Nets (3000 KC) shall be in JAN grid coordinates.

  1. Visual Fighter Direction.

    1. Each Fighter Director destroyer shall install a visual fighter direction station and shall inform the Force Fighter Director when such station is operative.

APP. 5 - G - 6

FIGHTER DIRECTION

Location and Voice Call of CSA's and Fighter Directors:

Ship Personnel Embarked Voice Call
USS WASATCH CSA, Central PHILIPPINES Task (CTF 77) Force Fleet Fighter Director HALIFAX
PEPSICOLA BASE
USS BLUE RIDGE CSA, Northern Attack Force (CTF 78) Force Fighter Director BEEHIVE
NEMO BASE
USS FREMONT CSA, San Ricardo Attack Group (CTG 78.2) Group Fighter Director BELFAST
BURLESQUE BASE
USS HUGHES CSA, Panaon Attack Group (CTG 78.3) Group Fighter Director PLAYMATE
DRAWING BASE
USS MT. OLYMPUS CSA, Southern Attack Force (CTF 79) Force Fighter Director VIRTUE
WHIRLPOOL BASE
USS APPALACHIAN CSA, Task Group Able (CTG 79.1) Group Fighter DIrector BRADSHAW
HANGMAN BASE
USS ROCKY MOUNT CSA, Task Group Baker (CTG 79.2) Group Fighter Director HAWTHORNE
DYNAMITE BASE
MUSTIN FD Team, Northern Attack Force GARBAGE BASE
JENKINS FD Team, Northern Attack Force OCCIDENTAL BASE
SCHROEDER
LONG[?]
MURRAY
FD Team, Northern Attack Force
FD Team, Northern Attack Force
FD Team, Northern Attack Force
SCARLESS BASE
CLOCKWORK BASE
VERTICAL BASE
NICHOLAS FD Team, Northern Attack Force HAYRIDE BASE
BENNION FD Team, Fire Support Group POWDER BASE
BRYANT FD Team, Fire Support Group GABRIEL BASE
HAZELWOOD FD Team, Southern Attack Force MOUNTAIN BASE
FRANKS FD Team, Southern Attack Force PARLOR BASE
McGOWAN FD Team, Southern Attack Force CARROT BASE
BAILEY FD Team, Southern Attack Force SLINGSHOT BASE
WICKES FD Team, Southern Attack Force COLOR BASE
LUCE FD Team, Southern Attack Force CLAREMONT BASE
STEMBEL FD Team, Southern Attack Force ELIJAH BASE
HALE FD Team, Southern Attack Force MEADOW BASE

APP. 5 - G - 7

APPENDIX 6 TO ANNEX "G" TO COMMANDER ALLIED NAVAL FORCE SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA OPERATION PLAN THIRTEEN DASH FORTY-FOUR

Coordination of Land and Carrier-Based Air.
  1. Coordination of land and carrier-based air for the KING TWO Operation will be accomplished by assumption of areas of responsibility and missions by the air forces involved. These areas of responsibility and missions are listed below:

    1. THIRD FLEET Area of Responsibility.
      PHILIPPINE AISLANDS Area exclusive of MINDANAO and SULU ARCHIPELAGO.

      Carrier Operations.
      Neutralize hostile air, naval forces and shipping--OKINAWA-FORMOSA-NORTHERN LUZON from A-10 through A-7; LUZON-BICOLS Area A-4 and A-3; VISAYAS Area A-3 through A-1; support landing operations LEYTE Area A Day in coordination with SEVENTH FLEET. Subsequent to A Day CINCSWPA or Commander SEVENTH FLEET will request carrier strikes if necessitated by the existing situation and Commander THIRD FLEET will comply or immediately report inability.

      Seventh Air Force (Shore-Based) Operations.
      Neutralize hostile air operations BICOL Area as directed and coordinated by Commander THIRD FLEET. CINCSWPA will coordinate directly as required with CTF 57 when Commander THIRD FLEET is at sea.

    2. Allied Naval Forces Area of Responsibility.
      LEYTE-SAMAR Area in coordination with THIRD FLEET.

      Operations.
      Furnish direct support of minesweeping and preliminary operations against DINAGAT-MONOMOHON and adjacent islands A-3 through A-1; direct support of landing operations LEYTE GULF A Day and until relieved by land-based aviation of the Allied Air Forces.

    3. Allied Air Forces Area of Responsibility.
      Exclusive of searches and until land-based bombers are established on MOROTAI; MINDANAO-SULU ARCHIPELAGO excluding water areas east of MINDANAO except the DAVAO GULF and excluding the land areas in MINDANAO north of 8°45' North and the MINDANAO SEA until further notice.

      Operations.
      Commencing A-10 Day maintain neutralization of hostile air forces and shipping in the MINDANAO Area within area of responsibility. When bombers are established at MOROTAI extend neutralization to include CELEBES SEA and the VISAYAS exclusive of LEYTE and SAMAR while escort carriers are in the area. Initiate strikes in the BURNEI Area of BORNEO at the earliest practicable date.

APP. 6 - G - 1

APPENDIX 7 - ANNEX G

SEARCH PLAN

APP. 7 - G - 1

APP. 7 - G - 2

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