The highlight of a somewhat uneventful day was the visit of a hockey team from No. 6 Armoured Car Corps who did outstanding work at SIDI REZEGH not so long ago. They were led by Lt. Col. Short, D. S. O. and after a good match beat the squadron team by 2 goals to 1.
The first show this morning was led by Major BARNBY. The target was ZARAT Village, enemy strongpoints etc in square TZ 51. The raid was not a great success. Bombs fell on the N.W. corner of the village and also amongst A/A guns. Oprep. 235, Sortie Report and Crew List. The second show was very successful though.The raid was led by Capt. MOUTON. He had 12 Balti's and 5 Bostons. (The first raid was 6 Balti’s and 12 Bostons) One of the Bostons fell out and one of our Balti's took his place. The target was M.T. and guns ZARAT village area. The bombs fell in the wood and the Southern part of the -village. There was one fire, and the army located 5 x 88mm guns in one point and 2 in another as a result of the raid. We received the following message from them:-"Last visit caused four blowups and revealed 5 x 88mm at Y5413 and 2x88mm at Y5408 – Many thanks." Message from Battle HQ.Oprep. Ho. 236. Sortie Report, and Crew List.Casualty Return dated the 23rd March.
A fire broke out in the Airmen’s Mess at approximately 05.00 hours and despite all efforts the mess was completely destroyed.
A Gas Test was carried out for all Squadron members. This appeared to upset the men as they all emerged from the gas room with tears running down their cheeks!
Lt. Roos and van Dyk (observers) reported for duty.