A number of somewhat conflicting reports have been received by us regarding the receipt of our operational aircraft and the O.C. left for CAIRO to-day to make enquiries as to the correct position. Experimental work on building in a movable and power-operated turret on a Baltimore is progressing and visits have been paid to Headquarters in CAIRO with the object of strengthening the armament on this aircraft.
A formation of 18 Baltimores led by Major BARNBY took off to bomb gun positions in area P.2295, 2292, 2592, 2595 (Ref. Map Tunisia 1:500,000 Sheet N.J. 32 SE Tunis). No attack was made as the formation was briefed not to bomb if army smoke signal was not seen. The leader made a dummy run over the target in case the smoke signal was delayed.
"Oprep" No.293, Sortie Report and Crew List.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur Tedder K.C.B. and Air Vice Marshal H. BROADHURST, D.S.O., D.F.C., A.F.C., paid this Wing an informal visit. Later in the afternoon we were visited by Major-General F THERON.
News of the day – The 21st Panzer Division surrendered.
Gun positions were attacked West of PONTECORVO on the first raid of the day but cloud over target hampered accurate bombing.
The second operation was rendered abortive owing to 10/10 cloud and the formation returned with all bombs.
Sortie Reports Nos. 665 & 666.
The Mobile Cinema Unit arrived and put on a most welcome show. Squadron Routine Order No. 41/44).