A "warming-up" party at which Lt. Col. Irvine had an opportunity of meeting all the members of the Mess, was held in the Officers Mess this evening and a good time was had by all. Syd Davis gave us some amusing imitations and led the singing which raised the echoes until a latish hour and served as a happy introduction for the O.C. to the officers of his squadron.
Capt. Fogarty, who has taken over the post of Engineer Officer vice Capt. Sheedy, returned from a brief "inspection tour" at ISMALIA where he went over the Baltimore, which aircraft this squadron is to receive in some numbers at a future date. There is no definite news available at present as to when we may expect the new aircraft, but the general indications are that it will be some considerable time.
Ten aircraft on operations tonight. Little ack-ack was observed and all aircraft returned safely. Oprep No. 209, Sortie Report and Crew Lists
It was still raining and all our aircraft were grounded for the day. Major Ord, Lieut. Hodges and A/Sgt. Earp-Jones left for BARI on their return to the Union. Their R.T.U. was a loss to the Squadron as they were fine men and aircrews.
Squadron Routine Order No. 13/44
Eleven Marauders, led by Comm. DIEU, briefed to attack the Cellulose Factory at TORRE DI ZUINO at H446928. After rendezvous with 12 Squadron over base, whole formation picked up a close escort of 10 Spits. at PORTO CORSINI. First and third Boxes straddled Western half of factory with many direct hits on buildings. Second Box had a left error of about 100 yards with hits on adjacent buildings. 25 packets of pamphlets were dropped in target vicinity. No enemy opposition encountered.
Sortie Report No. 945.