As a result of the mission, and in a general analysis of bombing in the 4th, it is now a general rule that bombardiers and navigators must positively identify the target and MPI. The bombardier will make every effort to bomb the assigned target and aiming point, and bombs will not be released when bombardiers are not properly synchronized.

It is recommended that lead crews be impressed with the importance of maintaining a proper assembly pattern according to the SOP. Lead navigators and pilots will work together to make the assembly pattern track good so that a minimum of interference will be encountered with other groups. Difficulty has been reported to Wing by some group or groups (probably 487th), complaining that we are not following the SOP pattern. Effort should be made to check group lead crews and ascertain that they are fully aware of the responsibilities involved in making the assembly pattern good.

Bombing results have recently been improving greatly, visual targets prevailing, and bombardiers becoming oriented and experienced in handling the various situations. Very compact patterns have been reported which confirms the faith in the four (4) squadron formation in being able to put the most bombs on the target in the most compact manner. Formation, both by individual planes and by squadrons, has improved immensely, and pilots today are setting a high mark in good formation flying. The lack of a high element enables planes to stack up on the lead a/c, permitting lower planes in the formation to fly forward and up. The 486th group can definitely expect big things in the future on the basis of present returns.