Another day of dust and wind with sand drifts piling up round the tents. Arrangements for the transfer of the artisan personnel were completed and Air Headquarters, Egypt advised by signal.
The raid today was led by Capt. CORMACK. We had 12 Balti’s in the show with 6 Bostons. Oprep. 234, Sortie Report & Crew List.
The raid was successful. The target was concentrations of tanks and M.T. S.W. and West of ZARAT. The bombs fell in the village and West of it. Two medium fires were started and the bombs fell amongst A/A guns West of the village. Only two aircraft were slightly holed by A/A. The Commanding Officer received a letter of Congratulation on his getting the D.F.C. from the D.G.A.F. today.
Rain prevented operations in the morning.
Thirteen Baltimores set off at 16.43 hours to bomb POPOLI Road and Railway Junction. One aircraft crashed on take off owing to the port engine cutting (no injuries to personnel). Bomb pattern commenced in the Northern portion of the town and extended across the river and railway line. No enemy opposition was encountered. Four Spitfires provided area cover. All aircraft landed at base by 18.18 hours. Sortie Report No. 600.
The R.S.M. reported that A/M Oliver and A/M Case (both sentenced to Field Punishment the previous day) had stolen a truck from the M.T. Section and left for FOGGIA.
Lieut. Smith (pilot) reported for duty.