Maj. O'Brien and Lieut. Newman returned from some "heavy duty" at the Court Martial in CAIRO. They were accompanied by Lieut. Col. Borckenhagen and Capt. Poland, O.C. and Administrative Officer respectively of No. 15 Squadron, who will be our neighbours on this ‘drome in a few weeks time. Their visit was not official but merely to say "how-do" and they left after only a short stay for AMRIYAH where their squadron is at present stationed.
Lt. Col. Pretorius took off in the late afternoon for CAIRO to obtain permission to fly a Maryland Aircraft to the Union.
Following postings to E.A. Instruction duties w.e.f. 8 Feb 43.:
103348 Captain B. L. CUMMING and 103455 Lieut. H. S. GOLDING, Pilots, 103267 Captain P. A. HATSWELL, Observer, 102360 Lieut. T. G. MOORE, Observer, 102249 Captain D. H. PHELAN, 102177 Lieut. C. L. TE WATER-POHL A/Gunners and two other ranks, A/Gunners. These officers and other ranks will be due for return to the Union on conclusion of their duties at O.T.U.
They have completed their tour of duty on active service.
The under-mentioned, having also completed their tour of duty are posted to S.A.A.F. Depot for R.T.U. w.e.f. 8 Feb 43:
103124 Captain R. T. CHIDDY, 103256 Lieut. D. G. HESLOP, 103097 Lieut. A. R. METCALF, 103660 Lieut. A. P. RICH, Pilots, 102400 Lieut. L. J.BLACKMAN, 48107 Lieut. H. G. LEVI,1 02319 Lieut. B. SIMLER, 47719 Lieut. B. J. VENTER,Observers; and eight other ranks (Air Gunners).
The members of the six aircrews reflected in these postings out have been with the Squadron, or out of the Union, for periods ranging from thirteen to nineteen months. The following Officers are posted to S.A.A.F. Depot (non-effective): 103719 Lieut. A. J. COOPER, 102395 Lieut. J. SADLER , 205822 Lieut. J. W. CHRISTIE.
Casualty Return reflecting present strength
No flying: Oprep No. 198
The Commanding Officer, Lt. -Colonel C.S. COPPEN, whose return from CAIRO has been delayed by the weather for twelve days, returned by truck from CASTEL BENITO, having been unable to land here yesterday – landing ground unserviceable. He was welcomed with a signal from the A.O.C. advising an immediate award to him of the D.F.C.
It is understood that that the “gong” is for the Commanding Officer's outstanding services and the Squadron’s contribution towards the last series of night operations from GZINA. The signal was read out in Mess by Major M. BARNBY, D.F.C. who used his ribbon for the decoration ceremony.
Lieut.-Colonel C. S. COPPEN, D.F.C., then made a short speech in which he thanked the Squadron for the co-operation and collaboration which had earned him the decoration. No sooner had the applause died down than the celebrations, suitable and prolonged, were commenced.
On account of bad weather no raids could be carried out. Nothing of importance happened during the day.