Originally assigned to 19th Bombardment Group, 30th Bombardment Squadron, it was later designated for transport duties with the 317th Troop Carrier Group, 46th Troop Carrier Squadron.

During November 1942, 'Tojo’s Nightmare' carried one U.S. Army howitzer, a tractor, ammunition and an eight man crew to 7-Mile Drome near Port Moresby from Australia. After delivery, the cargo was divided between several C-47s and flown to the north coast of New Guinea for use at Buna, New Guinea.

Whilst transporting troops on furlough to Australia, the bomber was making its final approach to Horn Island Airfield when the nose began to rise unexpectedly. It...