We receive the news this morning that HALFAYA PASS is reported in our hands and another gallant action by the Springboks passes down to posterity. The visit of the O.C. and Adj. to CAIRO has also borne fruit – an immediate signal has been received from Air Headquarters instructing that the squadron return to the Delta Area – L.G.99. All sections are advised and smiles light up weary faces as the news is telegraphed from end to end of the camp. We're going back!
In CAIRO, the O.C. and the Adjutant had explained the situation of the squadron in detail to the S.A.O.A., Col. Hingeston who had taken action with the result already mentioned.
In celebration of the occasion, the Sergeants' Mess obtained permission to use the Officers Canteen for a "farewell” party tonight – and judging by the scene of devastation which marked the conclusion of the proceedings, this party must have also been-a gay one!
All our aircraft returned safely last night: Oprep No. 170, Sortie Reports and Crew List
Information received from Wing that three Bostons collided on their way from L.G. 98 to SOLUCH on the 12th. Jan. 43 and it is probable that some of our Squadron personnel were involved. There is very little information available, except that it is unlikely that there were any survivors.
Captain A.G.M.BUDD and F/Sgt. C.F. HODGKINSON who went missing on the 14th. Jan. 43, returned to camp after a harrowing experience. Of the rest of the crew, No. 206828 A/F/Sgt. J.R. GIBBONS was killed and the Observer, Lieut. J. SADLER was wounded.
—Circumstantial Report
20.10
Night flying was interrupted just after our first aircraft had taken off. A Boston taking off burst a main wheel tyre, swung off the flare-path and collided with another Boston which had gone u/s by the same cause earlier in the evening. The second aircraft burst into flames and, as it was bombed up, ground crews were given an uncomfortably close exhibition of our 250 pounders exploding. Unfortunately there were three casualties. The remaining nine of our aircraft were given a stand-down.
No operations. Poor weather conditions. Six ground personnel, Other ranks, left for Bari on their way home.