The O.C. returned to camp to-day with the information that there had been no change in the rearming programme and that we were to receive our operational aircraft after No. 55 Squadron R.A.F. who had now moved in as our neighbours. Incidentally this area is becoming the home for a big number of squadrons – we have as neighbours Nos. 15, 55 and 7 squadrons all awaiting aircraft.
Major JANDRELL led a formation of 18 Baltimores to bomb the 9th Light Division in area P.3698, 3298, 3295 and 3595 (Ref. Map Tunisia 1:500,000 Sheet N.J. 32 SE-Tunis) The bombs dropped in the target area and one small fire was started. A few bursts of A. A. seen below and behind the formation.
“Oprep” No. 294, Sortie Report and Crew List.
There was great rejoicing in the Squadron when the news came through that the Axis forces in North Africa have completely capitulated and that Gen. von Arnim is a P.O.W.
One of our airmen was seriously injured when a detonator exploded after he squeezed it in a vice. Two officers proceeded to the scene of Capt. BUDD’s crash. They were reported missing on the 6th instant.
Gun positions near PONTECORVO was the target for both raids to-day. Heavy ack ack was encountered and one aircraft that had sustained damage belly-landed at MADNA landing Ground. No injuries to personnel. Sortie Reports Nos. 667 & 668.
Brigadier HINGESTON paid the Squadron a very brief visit.