Nos. 15 & 16. Squadrons arrived (by Road convoy and sea) from the Union.
Shortage of No. 21 Squadron personnel now amounted to approx. 230 men.
One hundred and fifteen men were immediately transferred to No. 21 Squadron from Nos. 15 & 16. This appeared to be the only way of accomplishing the manning of the squadron in the time at our disposal, having regard to the speed at which the aircraft were being delivered.
The day started quietly enough but the atmosphere was quickly changed to one of electric expectancy with the news (Not rumour) that some of the luckier ones in the Squadron would be proceeding to the Union to ferry our aircraft back to the Middle East. The day was marked with the prevalence of alternate smiles and frowns – the wills and the wonts –
No time was lost in drawing up a list of those who were to be on their way to the Union. The O.C. Adj. Flight Commanders and Engineering officer were busy all day on the list with the result that the task was performed with the minimum of delay and with disappointment only to those who were not lucky enough to be chosen. Eight nine was the number to be allotted for the crews and 89 were duly chosen.
Big stick in the various messes during the evening, what with the fortunate ones congratulating each other and the unfortunates consoling one another the canteens had a busy evening!
The last two of the MALTA aircraft and their crews also took off today on their way to join the first batch of the 69 Squadron boys.
0945
12 Baltimores led by Capt. STUART, using 250 lb. bombs with extension rods took off to bomb the harbour and town of LAMPEDUSA Island. The target was attacked in 2 boxes of six. The leading box straddled N.E. part of village towards landing ground. Some bombs fell on the L.G. No. 2 box straddled W. part of village. No A.A. or enemy fighters. Saw seven of our invasion ships, 11 miles S.E. of Island.
Oprep. No. 314 Sortie Report & Crew List
LAMPEDUSA Island surrendered.
Inclement weather prevented operations and nothing of importance to report.