A start was made this morning on regular flying activities in the squadron, and pilots will soon have opportunities of testing to the full the qualities of the new machine. Early morning formation flying is now the order of the day and machines were taking the air at sunrise to-day.
Most soldiers on active service show an attachment for various animals and pets and this squadron has proved no exception to the rule. Firmly entrenched as favourite among the canine personnel "on Strength" of the squadron is Felix, who, as mascot of the Photographic Section of the squadron, held the distinction of "Most Photographed Dog" in the squadron.
Whether the diversion he caused on early morning parades had anything to do with it or not – Felix proved himself adept at nipping the Sergt. Major’s ankles at the most awkward moments on parade – he was a most popular figure in the squadron; so to-day there is a general air of gloom about us, for poor Felix while trying to nip the back wheel of a passing lorry slipped and has now been posted "Accidentally Killed on Active Service"!
The Commanding Officer led last night’s show and 15 Baltimores were sent off at 3 minutes interval from 1809 hours onwards.
The last machine was back by 2150 hours. They bombed dispersed aircraft on KORBA South L.G. Bad visibility made the target difficult to distinguish and bombs were dropped on E.T.A. and fell in and around the target area. One small fire was started. A.A. over the target was spasmodic and inaccurate.
Oprep. No.263, Sortie Report and Crew List.
The machines wore left at HASBUB for future night flying and aircrews were brought back to camp by transport. Sufficient ground crews with equipment, tents and rations were sent to HASBUB to maintain and service the aircraft there.
Col. MARTIN and the Commanding Officer flew to EL DJEM to inspect the Landing Ground and came back with the good news that the country there is a paradise compared with this place, and that our “A” Party is to leave to-morrow, the 14th, for EL DJEM. The heads of all sections met in the Adjutant's office this afternoon to discuss the move.
Squadron Routine Order No. 27/43
Two raids to-day on road and rail bridges and marshalling yards and good results were observed. Sortie Reports Nos. 628 & 629 Capt. MacRITCHIE (formerly the Squadron A.O.) visited this Unit.