During this time the aircraft were being equipped for active service. They had been delivered with many guns short, but these were finally obtained and fitted.
An important modification was designed and constructed by Squadron personnel. A rotating turret was constructed giving a full sweep from wingtip to wingtip allowing for heavier armament and a much greater angle of fire control. The O.C. flew to Nairobi to demonstrate it to the A.O.C. who expressed his interest and approval. Thereafter all the aircraft were thus modified.
The A.O.C. (E.A.) Air Commodore SOWREY, D.F.C., A.F.C., arrived at NAKURU at the invitation of Major PRETORIUS, for a final inspection of the squadron prior to its departure for Middle East. The parade was formed up in a hollow square within a square formed by aircraft and crews. After individual inspection of aircraft crews, the A.O.C. addressed the whole squadron. He made particular reference to the exploits of No. 11 Squadron in Abyssinia and quoted some of the actions in which they were engaged, as being the foundation of the spirit and tradition of the now newly numbered No. 21 Squadron. He mentioned the gallant conduct of Lieut. S.W. MURRAY on the occasion of his attempt to rescue Capt. BRITZ when the latter was shot down at KOMBOLSHA, Near DESSIE. (Lt. MURRAY has since been recommended for the D.F.C. on account of this incident and consistently good service).
After wishing the Squadron “Good Luck”, the parade was dismissed and followed by a demonstration of tactical manoeuvres by the O.C. and two flight Commanders.
Promotions
The two flight commanders, Capts. M.H. FOWLER and J.F. BRITZ were promoted to the rank of T/Major w.e.f. 30th May, 1941 authority AG (1) 736/12 June 24.
Returns of Recommendations for increments and Promotions of Other Ranks submitted to A.H.Q., E.A., who advised that in any promotions which would involve over-establishment, the details concerned would be returned to the Union. Opportunity was taken to ensure that those were known to be strongly deserving of return to the Union were rendered “supernumerary to Establishment” by means of replacements and suitable promotions, with the desired result, that all other means of returning them having been refused, they were duly posted “off strength” and have now been sent to the Union.
Health
During the period under review the health of the Squadron was on the whole, very good. Of the 115 details who came up from the Union by road convoy, however, many contracted Malaria after arriving at Nakuru.
Three details of No. 11 Squadron, who had contracted chronic malaria were returned to the Union as being unfit for further service up North.
The camp was astir at 0345 hrs when reveille was sounded. The M.T. section under their tireless leader "Sandy" JOYNER had not slept the whole night and the heavy section of the convoy was soon ready for the road. The promised trucks did not arrive on time but the first section were sent on their way at 0600 hrs.
At about 0900 hrs the trucks began to arrive driven by R.A.F. aircrews. 55 and ourselves decided to halve the trucks between the squadrons as it would appear that some had been badly damaged en transit and would not be of any use on convoy.
As rapidly as they arrived they were refuelled, serviced and, loaded at 1000 hrs the balance of the convoy were on their way. We left our home with mixed feelings, but the majority seemed to be glad to leave such a desolate and wind swept part of the desert and looked forward to seeing some green trees and running water again. All were loath to leave with the idea that they were on the run from Jerry and if the squadron had been operating they would have been keen as mustard on carrying on – but with the aircrews in the Union and no aircraft or hope of any for some considerable time to come, it was generally felt that we were only in the way.
The roads were a slowly moving block of two way traffic and the convoy did slow time and arrived at MENA Staging camp just before dusk. Here the squadron spent the night. Soon the campfires were going and the cooks prepared a splendid meal thoroughly enjoyed by one and all.
General remarks
The squadron has now been out of operations for close on six months and with the second half of 1942 ahead of us we all look eagerly forward to the day when we can take our full share in driving the Hun from Egypt. The inactivity of the past six months has undoubtedly had its effect – but the spirits of the men are still high, despite the wearying and detrimental effects of enforced idleness.
The family spirit is a noticeable feature in the squadron and squadron pride remains as high as ever; the advent of our aircraft will be all that is required to put us back where we rightfully belong – among the successful S.A.A.F. bombing squadrons now harassing the Hun, day and night.
Health has been good and the ailments reported are mostly of a minor character.
Nothing of importance to report.
Oprep No. 321
Operations and Statistical Summaries Serial No. 153/43 to182/43 enclosed.
Squadron Statistical Summary for period 1st. to 30th. June 1943.
Casualty Returns indicating staff changes for June 1943
FAENZA Marshalling Yards and a road bridge near IESI bombed to-day. On the first operation the bombs blew up on being jettisoned from the aircraft piloted by Lieut. ELLIOT-WILSON.
The machine went down in flames over the target, crashing in FAENZA town. One parachute was seen to open. Crew - Lieut. ELLIOT-WILSON, pilot; Lieut. STEWART, observer; W.O.11 POSTHUMUS WT/AG; F/Sgt. BRICE, A.G. Sortie Reports Nos. 741 & 742.
Major DALLING, D.F.C., O.C. “B” Flight, Lieut. McARAVEY, observer, and. Lieut. FERGUSON, Admin. Officer, have been posted R.T.U. The weather has been fine for the past few weeks enabling the Squadron to operate almost daily.
Fifteen new flying personnel arrived at the Squadron to-day comprising R.A.F., N.Z., Aussies and Canadians. A couple of Yanks and Poles would certainly make this Squadron cosmopolitan, however, we are all in the war together - so what ! The newcomers were Lieuts. du BRUYN and PARSONS, F/O HANNA, F/Sgts. QUAIFE, GOBLE, MacDONALD R.J., MacDONALD T.D.I., RAMSAY, MARKHAM, CARTER, BLACKFORD, DALE, LONG, RICHARDSON, STUART (all pilots).
This area is highly malarious and the M.O. has issued the necessary warning to all ranks to strictly adhere to anti- malarial precautions. These orders are being strictly enforced and
the intention is to have a 100% anti-malarial Squadron.
APPENDIX TO WAR DIARY — 21 SQUADRON — 3 3AAF WING PERIOD — 1st to 30th June, 1944
No 21 Squadron aircraft were airborne on raids into enemy territory on seventeen days during the month of June, the total number of raids being 30, involving 766 hrs 55 mins operational flying time. Non-operational flying accounted for an additional 122 hrs 15 mins.
Now that the Squadron's Marauder strength has increased to four aircraft, the impetus of conversional training is rapidly gathering momentum.
During the month, the Squadron was briefed — on no less than twenty
occasions — to attack rail and road bridges at points stretching from the centre of Italy to the Adriatic coast, the bridges actually being in the following localities: Cagli, Torre, Cattolica, Chiaravalle, Fabriano, Fano, Fossato, Fossombrone, Rimini and lesi.
Though, on the whole, bombing patterns were reasonably accurate, damage to the brldgss proper was only effected on a couple of occasions, numerous near misses and direct hits on approaches, however, being, reported and later confirmed by photographic interpretation.
During the attack on Fossato rail bridge, the formation leader — owing to a hang-up — Jettisoned bombs over target; the bombs — colliding immediately below the aircraft — exploded, causing considerable damage to four aircraft,
Early in the month, support was given to the Americans on the road leading to Rome, when 21 Squadron successfully bombed enemy gun positions. Unfortunately ,the ack was intense and accurate, one aircraft (Lt Mackay and crew) being badly damaged and having to crash-land in the Gaeta area. One member of the crew was seriously injured — the remainder suffered from minor injuries,
Two interesting raids were directed against harbour installations at Split and Omis (Yugoslavia). These raids were particularly successful — numerous explosions and direct hits on quays and buildings being observed.
Marshalling yards at San Marino, Cesena and Porto San Giorgio were attacked, the letter two being effectively straddled.
Late in the month, gun positions — East of Macerata — were bombed, without any apparent results,
A raid on the last day of the month — an attack on Faenza Marshalling Yards — proved disastrous for Lt Elliot-Wilson and crew. Over target their bombs hung-up and on jettison, collided, exploding immediately below the aircraft, causing the aircraft to crash in flames over target area. One parachute was observed to land, apparently safe.
On most occasions slight ack was encountered — generally inaccurate.
JESI LANDING GROUND & RIVOLTA AIRFIELD, ITALY.
Early in June, after a lengthy stay in Jesi, the Squadron moved to Rivolta Airfield (near Udine).
The aircraft on strength to this Squadron remained at 18. Two more of these aircraft were converted into "troopers" (H.D. 612 and H.D. 557) malting a total of four.
During the month 71 trooping flights were undertaken and the total hours flown by this Squadron was 413.50 hours. The average serviceability was 15 against 3 unserviceable. The ten 50 hour inspections undertaken compare favourably with our operational activities. The reason being the longer flights carried out daily by our trooping machines.
The Squadron’s move from Jesi to our present camp site came as a pleasant break after our long stay. New scenery, towns, etc. visited and passed through were much appreciated by all. The new camp site and aerodrome came as a pleasant surprise, after the very badly war torn surroundings at Jesi. All equipment arrived safely.
“B” for Bliksem, our record operational flying aircraft, came due for a major inspection, but permission was obtained owing to her splendid condition to prolong her life another 50 hours by allowing her to go to 450 hours, a description of her activities and photographs are given as an appendix.
The morale of the ground personnel remains high, with the prospect of much sight seeing that they intend doing in the near future. Austria, Venice, etc. is quite the subject of the day. Quite a few dream of a speedy return to the Union, others again are all for the Far East. The food position remains excellent, especially now the vegetable season has arrived.
Capt. J. KLAASEN assumed charge of the Squadron’s equipment Section on the 14th vice Capt. Masters, posted to Adv. S.A.A.F. H.Q. A/Sgt. Schultz from "T" stores was posted R.T.U. towards the end of the month, thus leaving only three corporals in this section.
All surplus clothing and camp kit returned to A.S.P. and unserviceable gas equipment to Salvage Dump, Udine.
June has been not only a very busy month for the M.T. Section, but also a very successful one. The total mileage run was 91,000 - or an average of 3,000 miles per day - which is double that of a normal operational month; and the only accident for the month was one in which a horse was killed and our vehicle undamaged. No vehicles were written off and none was brought on strength.
The Squadron’s move from Jesi to its present site - a distance of over three hundred miles, was achieved with a minimum of delays. In fact the main convoy comprising approximately sixty vehicles arrived on schedule in two days - except for six three tonners with three trailers and these completed the journey in two and half days. Only one vehicle had to be left at a “REME” due to main bearings burning out. It has since been recovered. Apart from the normal Squadron equipment and personnel, thirty Nissen huts were transported from Jesi.
There have been times during the month when it has been difficult to meet the seemingly never ending demands for transport and, due to current commiments it has been impossible for MTLRU to carry out our major repairs. However, the majority of the Squadron has appreciated our difficulties and with the help of volunteers from other sections we have even been able to send several Leave Parties to Lake Garda and conduct many liberty runs to Venice, Southern Austria, Trieste, etc.
Once again it is desired to place on record that the excellent work and willing co-operation of the M.T. Mechanics and Drivers has made the foregoing possible at a time when most other Sections of the Squadron have been able to enjoy comparative leisure.
June showed little activity in the Armament Section. General maintenance and inspections were carried out, but as no firing of guns, or dropping of bombs has been taking place, this entailed the minimum of work.
A further two aircraft were stripped of armament for conversion to "trooping". One mid-upper turret had to be partially dismantled to allow for the removal of the rotation ring, which had to be replaced in the aircraft, forming part of the aircraft structure.
Taking advantage of reduced work, personnel have been able to proceed on leave and educational courses.
Postings R.T.U. during June depleted the staff slightly, but the amount of work called for allows for a big percentage of postings.
Owing to the moving of the whole Wing from Jesi to Udine, much work was naturally entailed, and the Armament Staff gave willing hands to the erection of the new camp.
Preparation is now taking place for the commencement of an intensive practice programme.
During the month of June many new Wireless Operator — Air Gunners joined the squadron, replacing tour expired men. They were given instruction on Marauder wireless equipment and obtained practical experience on the wireless test bench in the Signals Section.
No radio failures are on record for operationally 400 hours flown and the new WT/AG’s soon picked up the procedure in air operating on trooping aircraft.
No difficulty was experienced in obtaining spares or additional equipment when required, and equipment was maintained at a high standard of serviceability.
On the departure of two N.C.O's for demobilisation (falling under the “A” and “B” categories) no replacements arrived. However, the C.S.O. 3 Wing and Squadron Signals Officer decided to curtail the establishment by 25% in order to fit in with the reduced amount of work caused by non-operational flying.
The past month has seen a 50% change in N.M.C. personnel. Details, who had not applied for extended service, were posted to No. 2 N.E. L. & T. Camp at Bari and replacements were received from 7 Wing, S.A.A.F. The numbers involved were 32 Non. DD88J’s plus three details redundant and 34 respectively. The replacements have all been away from the Union for over two years but they have settled down to their new jobs and appear content.
The majority of the N.M.C. are still kept fully employed and continue to render satisfactory service.
Rations are ample and well prepared. Ail details are highly satisfied with their food.
Soccer is played every evening and inter-squadron matches nave been arranged. Efforts are being made to obtain a set of jerseys and football boots. A weekly open air cinema provides the N.M.C. with further entertainment.
No leave facilities are available in this area at the present and only casual day passes are allowed.
Tents are being used in this camp, and details are accommodated 5 or 6 per 180lb tent.
General camp discipline has been satisfactory. Conditions generally tend to make fraternisation with Italians easier, and there has been a noticeable increase in this respect. Within the camp area restrictions are strictly enforced.
No replacement has arrived vice S/Sgt. du Plessis M.H., who was admitted to hospital on 28th May, 1945.
A number of personnel changes took place in June. That long awaited event - the repatriation of the first groups to the Union - commenced at the end of June when "A" and "B" groups were posted R.T.U. 40 members of this Squadron came under these two groups. Capt. P.H. NICOLAY (pilot) was posted for I.T. S. and Major. H. Gordon WILLIAMS posted with "A" group. Capt. S.L. BOSHOFF (“I” Officer) posted to 19 Squadron; Capt. S. E. MASTERS, Adv. SAAF. H.Q. (“T” Stores); Capt. W.H. MITCHELL (Signals Officer) 25 Squadron were replaced by Lieut. H.R. DOVE, Capt. J. KLAASENS and Capt. R.R. GROOM respectively. On 28th June Major R. M. WILKINSON arrived as Adjutant, replacing Major E.O. AMM who had been posted as Adjutant of No. 3 Wing, S.A.A.F.
Due to the fact that 3 Wing were busy moving from Jesi to the North of Italy during the first two weeks of June, sport was practically at a standstill. After the various Squadrons had settled down in this area, the necessity of domestic playing-fields and equipment became the major problem. A Wing Sports conference was held and sufficient money was raised to purchase any available kit. This Squadron was only able to get cracking properly towards the end of June and our first fixture was a cricket match against a Kiwi Eleven from the Trieste area. 21 Squadron won this match on the 1st Innings. However, we expect to be kept fully occupied during July as our fixtures are numerous.
Three members of the squadron participated in the Desert Air Force Athletic Championships held at Udine on 17th June, 1945. Lieut. D. J. CALLAGHAN was placed 2nd in the Javelin Throw. A/Cpl. GREEN G.C. was 5th and Lieut. M.J. SMIT well up in the upper half of the large “field” in the 3 miles.
Early in June the Squadron moved from Jesi to Rivolta Airfield in the Udine district. The move went very well indeed -the journey taking two days. The "A" Party, under the able leadership of Capt. FOSTER, assisted by the Gunners and Armourers, established the new camp before the "B" Party arrived. A number of Nissen Huts was brought up from Jesi and these were quickly erected.
The weather was very hot indeed during June, but occasional thunderstorms help to cool the air. The camp is situated on Rivolta Airfield and an unused taxi strip runs through the centre of the camp. On a clear day the distant Alps stand out in sharp relief and form an attractive picture.
An interesting ceremony took place on 5th June at Rivolta Airfield when the A.O.C.,Air Vice Marshal Foster, presented Comm. DIEU (Belgian Air Force) and who is attached to this Squadron, with the Immediate Award of the D.F.C. The citation was read out by Lt. Col. D. Ord and a Marauder aircraft made a picturesque background. The A.O.C. remarked “Good show” and immediately after the ceremony Comm. Dieu left for a months’ leave in Belgium.
A signal was received from Rear Headquarters, D.A.F. to the effect that Major L.G. HAMLET and Capt. P.H. NICOLAY had both received the non-immediate award of the D.F.C.
Now that Sundays are observed as a holiday full advantage has been taken of liberty runs to such places as Venice, Trieste, Klagenfurt etc. and make a most welcome break from the monotony of camp life.
At the beginning of the month leave parties were resumed and a number of Squadron personnel travelled to the vicinity of Milan as guests of the 6th S.A. Armoured Division, and the splendid hospitality of the "Div" was greatly appreciated.
Later in the month a leave scheme to Riva on Lake Garda was introduced. Three hotels were taken over by 3 Wing, S.A.A.F. and equal reservations made to each of the Squadrons of the Wing.
The idea was to provide peacetime amenities for a reasonable cost at a holiday resort that was world famous in pre-war years. The scheme has only just commenced but the “pioneer party” on their return gave glowing accounts of the attractions of Riva!
There is ample entertainment at Udine, which is situated 12 miles North of our camp, comprising theatre and cinema shows, and excellent restaurant facilities for all ranks organised by Desert Air Force. In addition, regular weekly camp cinema shows are held in the open air. After such a long and arduous campaign it is fortunate that we are now situated at Udine and, although we all hope to soon return to the Union, the period of waiting is being passed as pleasantly as possible amidst delightful surroundings.
Courses are being conducted by various Headquarters in a wide range of subjects, such as Italian Culture, Science, Typewriting and P. T., and many Squadron members are taking full advantage of the excellent instruction provided.
An unfortunate accident occurred on 1st June, 1945 when No. 226243V. A/Cpl. SCHOEMAN A.J. fell from a lorry and sustained head injuries resulting in his death in hospital on 3rd June.
A/Cpl. Schoeman was a popular member of our Refuelling Section and he will be missed by us all. A Court of Inquiry was convened and the findings will be promulgated next month.
OPERATIONAL SECTION.
The Squadron moved from Jesi to Rivolto between the 3rd and 8th of June, the aircraft being flown up on the 7th June. For a few days thereafter Training Flying was curtailed but trooping continued without interruption and minor snags which have arisen have been easily ironed out. The Camp was soon established and the serviceability of aircraft has remained at a satisfactory level.
The Squadron’s main activities have been confined to trooping and all committments have been successfully carried out. Personnel were flown to Bari, Campiano (Rome), Campo di Chino (Naples), Biferno, Guada and Foggia. The landing strip at Campiano is very rough, and is liable to cause damage to tyres and therefore is very unsuitable for use by Marauder aircraft. Flying weather experienced during the month was good, and only one aircraft was held up at Celone, Foggia for two days owing to a strong and persistent cross-wind.
Aircraft “A” No. 612 and “U” No. 577 were stripped and converted to passenger carrying machines during the month and the Squadron thus has four trooping aircraft available.
A total of 71 trooping flights were made for a total of 245 hours 45 minutes.
Cross-country excercise flying re-commenced on the 14th June when six aircraft flew from Base-Parma-Trento-Base. Training included formation flying, and other routes flown were Base-Padova-Bolzano-Base, Base-Genoa-Base, and Base-Milan-Bolzano-Base. With the lifting of certain flying restrictions over Allied Occupied Austria, one excercise was flown to Innsbruck to give aircrews a change of route and experience of conditions over the Alps. On this occasion the aircraft flew individually.
A fighter affiliation exercise was laid on by 3 Wing for the 19th June. A box of four Marauders were to carry out an attack on Palmanova from 8,000 feet. Fighters were to be vectored onto the bombers who were to carry out normal evasive action. Unfortunately when the leader of the box, Major W.J.O. MUSGROVE, reached 5,000 feet his R/T “Packed up”. No. 2 in the Box, Lieut. REYNEKE took over but shortly afterwards his R/T went unserviceable and as a continuation of the exercise was therefore rendered useless, the box was ordered to return to base. In the meantime the fighters carried out several dummy attacks and according to the gunners a number of fighters would have been "shot down in flames".
The armour of the unstripped aircraft is periodically checked and serviced.
The total Marauder flying hours for the month is 414 hours 55 minutes.
The following "I" Staff changes are recorded :
Lieut. S.F. WIGGILL was posted to No. 27 squadron on the 28th May, 1945.
Lieut. H.R. DOVE reported for duty on the 4th May, 1945.
F/Sgt. S.B. GOODCHILD posted to 30 Squadron on 15. 6. 45.
A/Sgt. I. MITCHELL, ex 30 Squadron, on strength on 12.6.45 and off strength on 23.6.45 for Adv. Base Transit Camp R.T.U. for 7 Wing, S.A.A.F.
Capt. S.L. BOSHOFF off strength on 15. 6. 45 - posted to 19 Squadron.
A/Cpl. M. LEVY, ex 16 Squadron, on strength on 25. 6. 45