SHIPPING SWEPT

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 80, 5 January 1945, Page 5

SHIPPING SWEPT

PATROLS OF U.S. BOMBERS I 25 JAPANESE VESSELS SUNK OR DAMAGED WIDESPREAD ACTIVITY ELSEWHERE Washington, Jan. 3. “Attack bombers in heavy patrols swept enemy shipping along the west of Luzon from the north to the south and sank or set on fire 25 ships comprising a 7000-ton transport, a 6000ton freighter, 21 smaller freighters and two large trawlers,” says General MacArthur’s communique. “Medium and light bombers ranged south of Luzon from Legaspi to Batangas, hitting railway installations, reservoirs, barracks and barges aldng the coast. Escorted heavy units again struck Clark Field and shot down 11 of 20 planes attempting interception for the loss of one. “Our troops in shore-to-shore operations landed on both the eastern and western coasts of Mindoro. Our flak and fighters shot down eight enemy planes. “Medium bombers and fighters bombed and strafed Negros aerodromes, starting fires in supply and personnel areas. A total of 1287 enemy troops was killed on Leyte during the day. Our light naval units patrolling adjacent waters sank five coastal vessels and a launch. Enemy planes before dawn attacked airfield installations. Flak shot down one. We sustained some damage.”