The story
After dark, three B-24 bombers of USAAF 5th Air Force (two from 43rd Bombardment Group (Heavy) and one from 90th Bombardment Group (Heavy); the latter was equipped with H2X radar) took off from Tacloban, Leyte island, Philippine Islands to attack the Japanese airfield at Heito (now Pingdong), Taiwan. One of the 43rd Bombardment Group aircraft developed engine trouble and turned back. The remaining two bombers each dropped three 1,000-pound bombs and incendiaries, starting some fires. They were met with anti-aircraft fire but did not suffer damage. This was the first time 5th Air Force attacked Taiwan.
There's more to discover
You have arrived at just one small part of Back to Normandy — a personal project dedicated to preserving stories, images, music and memories of the Second World War.
Every record is a doorway to a larger story. Explore Back to Normandy to discover more, or visit Fred Vogels' personal website to learn about the person and the projects behind it.