Crew 6: 2nd Replacement Tapp Crew

On July 16, 1945, Crew 6: 2nd Replacement was put on combat orders. The briefing outlined the mission: to target Handa, a shipyard center south of Tokyo. The map was pointed out, and instructions were given for radio silence to avoid alerting the enemy. The crew was to start engines, taxi, and line up for takeoff at precise intervals, waiting for the green light before rolling down the runway. Emphasis was placed on spacing due to the risk of collisions, as visibility would be poor in the dark, and planes would be flying at staggered altitudes. After the briefing, the new crew was informed about emergency procedures for wounded onboard, adding to the tension. Trucks took the crew to the flight line, where the ground crews ensured the planes were ready for the fifteen-hour flight. The crew chief confirmed the aircraft's readiness, but pre-flight preparations were extensive. The co-pilot had to calculate weight and balance, ensuring the load was correctly distributed. Adjustments were made, including shifting crew members to achieve proper balance. Radar Officer Dick Donovan fell ill, raising concerns about his ability to fulfill his role. Despite his insistence that it was nerves, he improved once airborne. With everyone strapped in, the checklist was read out, and the crew responded as required. As the crew lined up on the runway, each plane ahead took off, and at their turn, they awaited the crucial green light. When it failed to appear, a ramp officer shouted from a jeep, directing them to proceed. Unaware of the light's location, the crew finally saw it at the far end of the runway and took off amidst the commotion. During the takeoff roll, the pilot carefully monitored speeds, reaching 120 mph before lifting off. After climbing past a cliff at the island's edge, the crew began their ascent to cruising altitude. With the autopilot engaged, they relaxed briefly. The pilot, Bill Tapp, suggested the co-pilot take a nap while he flew the first part of the mission. Unable to sleep, the co-pilot spent time stargazing and reflecting on the mission’s moral implications and thoughts of home.

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