12 Marauders airborne from IESI at 11.04 hours, led by Lt. Col. ORD to attack the TREVISO Engine Sheds, with a fighter escort. Due to cloud in the FANO area two aircraft of second Box lost formation and eventually formed up with 24 and 30 Squadron. A third aircraft of this Box while circuiting in formation off FANO at 5,000 feet developed a spin, crew instructed to bale; two gunners jumped and two chutes seen descending and sea rescue action taken by the Leader. The resultant search revealed no trace of these airmen (W.O.1 HAMILTON D. M., S.A.A.F. and F/Sgt. EVANS D.W., R.A.F.). Pilot (Lieut. W.R. CLOETE) corrected at 800 feet; dropped bombs safe at sea and returned to base. First box of six bombed from 12000 feet – pattern resulting in a 300 yards right error and overshoot on edge of town (G.625759 - 622757) among scattered buildings. Second Vic of three aircraft, on which two aircraft of 30 Squadron formated - bombed from 11,700 feet; pattern missed main objective, but straddled main line and junction, with numerous direct hits on tracks. No Enemy opposition from target area; five puffs, inaccurate, heavy ack-ack when crossing coast at PIAVE River mouth. All aircraft down at 13.46 hours.
Sortie Report No. 888.