The sequel, to the story came to-day when an official communique published in CAIRO stated: "An unidentified type of enemy aircraft flew over ALEXANDRIA yesterday apparently on a reconnaissance. Hurricanes took off but failed to effect an interception!"
World news indicates that the fall of SINGAPORE is imminent and the possibility of a Japanese threat to the Union becomes more real with the passage of days. There is much conjecture among all ranks in the squadron regarding the possibility of the entire squadron being recalled for the defence of the Union but it is also appreciated that the presence of troops in this portion of the world is also a defence of the Union. However, the lack of anything definite to do –now that the squadron is non-operational, and appears likely to be so for some considerable period – turns thoughts to a more active form of defence of our country than sitting amid the howling dust-storms of the Delta area.
During the present training period, the Squadron is rationed to 50 bombs and 1,200 gallons of fuel. It is anticipated that we shall commence night operations on the 14th. Feb. 1943, and supplies will he increased to enable us to cope. Weather has changed to cold, rain and wind.
No operational flying: Oprep No. 193
The weather cleared and it was a beautiful day. An early operation was carried out by the Squadron. The target was the town of PALESTRINA in ITALY. As it was cloudy over the target, the formation had to bomb through a gap in the clouds. The bombs fell in a medium length stick from N.E. of the town.
One explosion, followed by a medium brownish smoke, and a grey smoke fire, was observed.
No enemy opposition was encountered.
Sortie Report No. 548.
Lieut. Boshoff, the new Assistant Ops. Officer, reported for duty. It was reported that the leave truck was stolen in SORRENTO.