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Summary:
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Despite "unflyable" weather, the 8th Air Force launched its bombers on tactical targets in support of Allied troops, who were being driven back by the German offensive known as "the Battle of the Bulge". The 401st provided the three squadrons making up the 94th Combat Wing "A" Group. Because of adverse weather conditions, the squadrons became separated in the target area. The Lead Dquaron bombed Koblenz by PFF methods; the Low Squadron dropped on the smoke of another Group at Stadtkyll, a target of opportunity; and the High Squadron bombed Schleiden by PFF. There was no flak or enemy air opposition and consequently no battle damage.
Upon returning from the mission, all Group aircraft were diverted to other bases. Twenty ships landed at an RAF Coastal Command base at Predannack in southwest England, while twelve landed at the RAF base at Tangmere, near London, and the other three landed at Benson, south of Oxford. All had to remain at those bases until December 23, when they took off for Deenthorpe. However, before reaching home the weather closed in again, and the ships were diverted to the 3rd Air Division base at Deopham Green and other 3rd Air Division bases. From those bases, the Group flew another mission on December 24.
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