The rule was that you have to make an attempt with ord before 60 minutes. The B17s were that attempt. That is the only requirement. After the initial bombing attempt, it doesn't matter what you use. Ive seen this done many many times during FSOs on targets on air bases. Ive even seen bombers drop their bombs, and then make low strafing passes with their turrets. There is long standing precedent that makes the attack on the CV legit.
As I read the rule, for what its worth, strafing of the CV is not allowed, as it say's, "simply strafing the target with fighters does not satisfy the requirements of the rule".
And when the beginning of the rule specifically says "bombs and rockets". Where does it say in the rule that strafing is allowed after the first attempt? That part is missing in the rule but with the above statement, it is allowed under the so called "long standing precedent" clause. So it is against the rules, but it is OK to bend the rules because someone did it before.
With an event full of rules, and all I have read that about having to follow the rules, since I am new, what other rules have exceptions to them that I can break because of a "long standing precedent"?
"Long standing precedent" is pretty lame when it comes to rules. Either it's in the rule or it isnt, and in this case it is not, as it is written, and someone at some time didnt want to apply the rule when he should have which resulted in the "hey they did it, so can we" attitude. Why not just follow the rules or amend them so everyone will know what the rule is and get rid of this nonsnse? And those that have said it is OK, would you please point this out to me in the rule where it say's it is OK to do this?