This is King Farouk's birthday but the weather took no notice and we were again treated to a vile dust-storm which, lasting all day, made tempers short and impeded progress in building the camp. Advice has been received that our planes have found a "home" at last and are to be returned to the advanced Aircraft depot at BURG-EL-ARAB, together with a number of personnel to service and help In the overhaul of these aircraft.
Westerly gale and intermittent showers continue. Wing has arranged a scheme for periods of four days' leave for ground crews. Leave will be spent in Wing Rear camp near the sea, West of ZLITEN and conducted tours of Tripoli (Trip) and of the Roman ruins near Homs (Trip) will be included in the programme.
Leave parties are to consist of about 25 S.A.A.F, and 10 Cape Corps other ranks. There is no leave available for air crews as it is anticipated that night ops. are to commence on 14 Feb. 43. Three other ranks (S.A.M.C. attached) posted to report A.D.M.S. for probable return to Union on expiration of tour of duty.
No. 103123 Lieut. A.B. MURRAY (Pilot) posted in from S.A.A.F. Depot, with two other ranks ( W/Ops.)
No flying: Oprep No. 194
It commenced to rain at about 10.00 hours, and all operations for the day were cancelled. P/O Gildon, the only R.A.F. aircrew member still with the Squadron, left as O.T.E.