Air Attacks near Cape Anzio
Commencing January 21, 1944, Plunkett escorted the follow up assault group to Cape Anzio. After delivering the craft, she remained in the area to screen the transports. On the 24th she fell victim to a coordinated air attacks which, involved 2 glider bombs coming in on the port beam, and 2 Ju.88's closing in from ahead. Ship’s speed was increased; maneuvering was radical. The glider bombs finally dropped, at 200 yards distance, but more planes had joined the foray to commence a sustained 17 minute battle. Plunkett took a 250kg. bomb hit and caught fire. ... The bomb killed 23, left 28 missing, with many more, wounded, and caused extensive damage to her fire control apparatus, armament, and port engine. ... Damage Control efforts on Plunkett were successful in putting out the fires and restoring power to the ship. Plunkett proceeded, on one engine, to Palermo where temporary repairs enabled her to reach Casablanca and, finally, New York, where repairs were completed
