Today saw the first influx of our new crews, three of them arriving via CAIRO from their O.T.U. training. The “Q” and “T” stores had a busy morning fitting them out with all their kit and flying clothing etc. After being interviewed by the O.C. they were detailed to their respective flights.
Today saw the arrival of our second flight commander in the person of Major Miles Barnby D.F.C. – certainly no newcomer to the ups and downs of active service. He served with No. 12 in East Africa and later with 24 in the desert. He is indeed an acquisition to the squadron and a worthy successor to the fine flight commanders we have had.
Major Rev McCarirt M.M. – Father Mac – to thousands of our troops – arrived here for a day or so. He is now senior Catholic chaplain in the U.D.F. in the Middle East and is getting around to see his boys all over the desert.
A hearty cheer from a group of happy looking young men on a lorry early this morning signalled the departure for CASTEL BENITO, en route for the Union of a number of Officers and Air Gunners. The Officers were Lieuts. HOTCHKISS, GARDENER, MORRELL, KERR, ARNOLD, GIBSON and MULHOLLAND.
Mr Joseph Behrman, Wright Cyclone representative, who has been with this Squadron for a considerable time also bade us farewell.
Squadron Casualty Return for Week-ending 25 May, 1943
A successful attack on a railway bridge near FOSSOMBRONE, which was the only raid of the day. Sortie Report No. 688.
News was received that Capt. HALL, who had been reported missing on the 17th May, had escaped from enemy territory and was safe in Allied hands.