At the present moment there are only two complete crews – Baltimore trained – in the squadron, apart from those who have returned to the Union to collect aircraft. A posting order received today leaves us pilot-less, for our remaining "full wings” are to be sent to No. 223 Squadron, R. A. F. One crew left to-day and the other will follow shortly.
No. 335 (Greek) Squadron arrived on the Station this afternoon and were accommodated on the landing ground alongside the Free (Fighting) French Squadrons who arrived a day or two earlier. These are the base parties of the squadrons concerned and only aircraft requiring servicing will be sent to this station.
We have received a number of visits during the past few days from officers of various higher formations — all coming to measure runways and enquire as to the suitability of EL FIRDAN as an operational 'drome. It would appear that there is at present a shortage of operational 'dromes or base landing grounds for squadrons which have been brought back from the forward areas to the canal zone.
Five Baltimores took off at intervals to raid the Landing Ground at TRAPANI/MILO. The target was poorly illuminated but all the bombs fell in the target area. Intense A. A. was encountered over the target and from FAVIGNANA Island. Approximately 20 search lights were in operation at TRAPANI town and West of the target area.
"Oprep” No.327, Sortie Report and Crew List.
Two raids to-day. Twelve Baltis airborne at 09.08 hours (one returned owing to engine trouble after Jettisoning bomb load out to sea) to bomb railway line between FAENZA and FORLI. Close escort of eight Spits. First box undershot but second box carried on straddling railway line with one or two direct hits.
Sortie Report No. 751.
Second raid. Twelve Baltis airborne at 14.37 hours to attack railway between MARRADI and FAENZA. Escort of eight Spits. Some hits amongst farm buildings and on secondary road, also straddled railway line. Heavy ack-ack from S. Safia - slight and inaccurate.
All aircraft landed by 17.25. Sortie Report No. 752.
Another air raid alarm last night at 22.00 hours. No enemy aircraft seen or heard. Instructions given to all personnel to get busy on slit trenches.
Soft ball has started and is proving very popular. Games have been played against Wing, 12 & 24 Squadrons, besides the numerous inter-section games. So far our Air Mechanics have produced the best team - they have consistently beaten the Officers so far.