The O.C., Lt. Col. Irvine returned from KASFAREET and Head-quarters CAIRO to-day with the discouraging information that the squadron is not likely to re-enter operations for possibly more than three months and that our first aircraft are only due to arrive here in about six weeks time. We take some comfort from the fact that the situation "however, changes daily".
No operational flying today. Oprep. No. 218.
We are now told that the whole Squadron is on two hours notice to move to EL ASSA. The padre held a Service in the Officers Mess this morning which was well attended.
Lts. BREYTENBACH and COHEN were sent to TRIPOLI yesterday afternoon to try to organise some beer for the Squadron. Rumour has it that beer is available!!
We are informed this afternoon that the convoy and aircraft will leave camp for EL ASSA at 08.00 hrs. tomorrow morning. If IF we get the word to move at 05.30 hrs. The heads of all sections met in the Adjutants office this afternoon to discuss the move.
There will be about 65 vehicles including trailers and motor-cycles, in the convoy.
The weather improved during the morning and an operation was carried out. The target was ZAGAROLO Railway Station. After rendezvous at VINCHIATURO with 12 Baltimores of 223 Squadron they flew to target via AVEZZANO and returned the same day. Each box bombed individually on their leader. Medium stick from G026583 to G025578, some bombs carrying across railway line to road, overshooting and to the EAST of the target. Four bursts of Heavy Ack Ack when formation left target, inaccurate. All aircraft landed back by 12.15 hours. Sortie Report No. 578.
In the afternoon the target was again ZAGAROLO Railway Station. Owing to 10/10 cloud over the target area the formation were unable to bomb and jettisoned their bombs in the sea. All the aircraft landed at base by 16.07 hours. Sortie Report No. 579.
W.O.s. Allan, Stewart and Buchler left for R.T.U. as their contracts had expired. The Adjutant proceeded to FOGGIA to obtain the release of three Squadron personnel who were held on close arrest.