Those of us who remained in camp braving another dusty Sunday saw with somewhat envious eyes the arrival of No. 55 Squadron’s first three aircraft. This R.A.F. unit is sharing the Landing Ground with us, and this area should soon be a home for Baltimores.
“Oprep” No. 299.
News came through that we will have a definite stand-down for five days. A suggestion was put forward that we should open a holiday camp on the coast, but owing to the poor response by all ranks this was cancelled.
Gun positions near ROCCASECCA were attacked twice, and the ack-ack was very accurate resulting in the loss of two machines. The aircraft piloted by Major JOB was shot down over the target, two parachutes were seen to open. The second aircraft crash-landed at TRIGNO on the way back, with the Observer, Lieut. EDMAYR, and the WT/AG. W.O.1. Ferreira wounded by ack-ack splinters. Only one aircraft returned without any holes. The loss of Major JOB and his crew was a great blow to the Squadron, Major JOB, pilot, Lieut. STUART, observer, Capt. HALL, A. G. & 2/Lt. BOUHER, WT/AG) as they were very efficient aircrew members and most popular with all ranks in the Squadron.
Sortie Reports Nos. 677 & 678.