Lieut. CHADWICK, Information officer, gave a lecture on “Turkey, Its political past and present outlook on the war”. The lecture was well attended, being held in the Sergeants Mess. The Medical Officer had a chat to the squadron inviting blood donors who are urgently required at the moment. A bottle of beer is given for a pint of blood!!
The twenty four aircrew who flew down to SUMMAT have arrived back from KASFAREET having delivered the ten Baltimores safe and sound at their destination.
Arrangements will now have to be made to have them sent to the Union as soon as possible.
One Warrant Officer and 22 airmen arrived from Adv. S.A.A.F. Base Depot to replace ground crews due to return to the Union. Lt. DEMMER (Pilot) posted to S.A.A.F. Base and left today.
Oprep No. 316
3 Wing visited by Field Marshal SMUTS who, after having lunch at 21 Squadron, addressed all ranks. He congratulated the S.A.A.F. on the splendid job of work they had done and were doing. He remarked that if things went according to plan the war in Europe ought to be over this year, but stressed the necessity for everyone to redouble his war effort. There was to be no slackening off. He was accompanied by Generals Sir Pierre van RYNEVELD, THERON and C. VENTER. . At the request of 3 Wing, 21 Squadron at a moments notice provided a tip top luncheon.
The Squadron was in the midst of moving, in fact "A" party had already moved, the Nissen huts had been removed and there remained only the concrete floor of what was the Officers' Mess, but 3 E.P.I.Ps were erected and various items of cutlery and crockery were borrowed from other Squadrons, sheets served as table cloths and even wild flowers were to be seen on the table.
The meal would have done justice to any table. It was quite evident from the remarks passed by the guests that they themselves were astounded at the fare provided. Immediately after delivering his speech the Field Marshal left by 'plane.
Nil operations.