O.C. and Maj. Baxter returned this afternoon with two Baltimore Aircraft, assembled at PORT SUDAN, and these had an average of just over 20 hours per engine when received. The aircraft were A. G. 776 and A. G. 780. A new type of air cleaner had been incorporated in the engines of each aircraft and performances on test were to be recorded and reported upon weekly.
1100
A search for Lt. MURRAY and crew who forced landed after an operation on the 26th of March 1943 was carried out by four aircraft. Other than the R/T message saying that the aircraft had forced landed no news has been received from any sources of the aircraft or crew. 211 Group had made a search of the battle area for this aircraft with no results.
The area searched by our aircraft was approximately 55 miles square. Each Baltimore searched an allotted area. The weather was very bad, with low clouds and poor visibility which made observation difficult. Except for one aircraft which returned after 1 ½ hour, the other searched their respective areas for 3 ½ hours with no results.
Report on Search of Lt. MURRAY and Crew
Instructions received from Wing that our “A” Party is to move to HASBUB L.G. near MEDENINE not later than first light on the 4th. They are to establish themselves then the aircraft will be flown up and our “B” Party will follow later. The Squadron was promised by N.A.A.F.I. that a concert party consisting out of 3 men and 7 girls will give us a show during the evening of the 4th.
No. Operational Flying. Oprep No. 251
A formation of twelve Baltimores took off at 08.30 hours to bomb the barracks about a mile S.W. of MACERTA. These barracks were believed to contain Fascist personnel and the leading crew was specially briefed at 3 Wing, Rendezvous was made with 223 Squadron at base with this Squadron leading. Pattern straddled Eastern half of barracks, with bursts on and between bungalows, and hits on road East and N.E. of target.
One burst among 20 people running out of bungalows. 24 Kitty bombers attacked selected target in MACERTA town prior to formations arrival and then provided area cover and escort home.
No opposition in target area but few bursts of inaccurate heavy ack-ack from coast near PESCARA on return. All aircraft down by 11.05 hours. Sortie Report No. 617.
Squadron Routine Order No. 29/44.