The situation forward appears to be grave and in view of the proximity of the front line it was deemed advisable to begin striking camp and packing equipment preparatory to any movement. Weekend leave, for the first time since arriving at our present base was drastically curtailed and it was a question of "all hands, to the pumps".
No operations. The Squadron has more or less settled down in its new surroundings. Major Jimmy RAUTENBACH selected the camp site and very capably arranged the camp. The Officers', Sergeants' and Airmens' Messes are situated under trees next to the Pescara River – really beautiful surroundings. Headquarters are away from the Messes and command an excellent view of the whole camp. The move was not altogether uneventful. One truck containing the Officers' Mess liquor overturned near the SANGRO River resulting in a tremendous loss of precious stimulant.
Three officers who were travelling on the truck were fortunately only slightly injured. Several trucks broke down on the road. This is not surprising as the vehicles of 21 Squadron are in a "clapped out" condition and every endeavour is being made to convince D.A.F. how serious the position is, but all efforts to date have proved futile, and one shudders at the thought of another move with the vehicles in their present state.
Baseball has been a popular sport in the Squadron. We have played matches against both 12 & 24 Squadrons, apart from several inter-squadron competitions. The Pescara River affords a pleasant diversion for those who are fond of swimming. A/M G.C. Green of this Squadron participated in an athletic meeting at FOGGIA and succeeded in winning the 3 mile and 6 mile events. This is an outstanding performance and brought honour to the Squadron and the S.A.A.F. He is to be congratulated.
Lieut. R. GELB (observer) reported for duty.
Squadron Routine Order No. 61/44.