Permission was obtained to proceed down the famed HALFAYA PASS which had been cleared of mines, and in low gear and frequent use of the brake, the convoy moved steadily down this most impressive pass. Pushing on, the convoy entered Egypt “behind the wire” and was well on its way to the squadron’s new home at nightfall, when the remaining vehicles (some “acquired” ones had fallen by the way-side) were dispersed on an open camping ground..
All aircraft returned from last night's raids, the only casualty being an Observer, Lieut. A. COOPER, slightly wounded. He was over eight miles off course when a Jerry light ack-ack battery registered its objections, scoring a direct hit in the Observer's compartment and rudely awakening Mr. Cooper who will have considerable difficulty in seating himself comfortably for some time to come.Circumstantial ReportOp rep No. 173, Sortie Report and Crew Lists Twelve aircraft required for tonight's operations.
At 0930 Hrs. twelve of our Baltimores took off to bomb POPOLI Railway Station. On identifying the target, the leader turned and made a short bombing run; his bombs overshot N.N.E. of the target and as both boxes dropped their bombs on the leader there were no apparent results.
Sortie Report No. 522.
POPOLI Railway Station was again the target in the afternoon. When the first box bombed, bursts were seen slightly WEST of the railroad across the target; the second box bombed 200-300 yards to SOUTH. Direct hits were obtained on the Railroad, Bridge and buildings.
Sortie Report No. 523.
Squadron Routine Orders No. 3/44
Nine Marauders led by Capt. NICOLAY took off from JESI Landing Ground at 10.17 hours to bomb CELJE Railroad Bridge in Yugoslavia, followed by 12 squadron, S.A.A.F. and escorted by eight Spitfires, 8/10ths to 10/10th cloud encountered and after three circuits gaining height in a vain endeavour to get above cloud, the formation turned back towards the alternative target (Causeway at M.606608). 10/10ths cloud again prevented bombing and all aircraft returned with bomb-load and landed by 12.55 hours.
Sortie Report No. 914.
21st & 22nd No operations carried out.