Lieut NEL. (Oom Tollie) our "I" Officer returned to camp to-day having paid a brief visit to operational squadrons in the forward areas. He was able to give us a picture of the fine work the squadrons are doing.
Lieut. de MARILLAO, a S.A.A.F. pilot formerly seconded to the R.A.F. arrived here on posting this afternoon. Lt. de MARILLAO had served with the R.A.F. in India and had a rather adventurous spell with his squadron there, having come down behind the Japanese lines on one operation and returning to his unit after a hazardous journey. His exploit has already been given publicity in the Press.
After several days patient waiting the Malta move was at last affected. D.C.3’s aircraft started to arrive from 0900 Hrs. to convey ground crews. One Baltimore piloted by Major JANDRELL, his crew and Capt. VILJOEN left for MALTA as an advance party.
1100
This aircraft arrived at LUQA Landing Ground at 1100 Hrs.and were advised that No. 3 S.A.A.F Wing will operate from HAL FAR L.G. and not from LUQA as intended in the first place. The aircraft took off again and landed at HAL FAR, where they were met by F/Lt. EVANS, Administrative Officer of the Station. NO aircraft or personnel were expected by them until the following day, however, they were very helpful and when the D.C.3’s started to arrive, billets for Officers, N.C.O’s and airmen were all arranged and everything went off without a hitch.
Transport seems to be the only drawback as only 3 ton lorries have been allocated to the Squadron for all the work including the conveyance of Air and ground crews to and from their billets, which are approximately two miles away from the landing ground.
It is hoped that everything will work out all right. Billets for all ranks are very comfortable and this would be a change from tent life.
NO Operational Flying. “Oprep”No. 345
Rear Party
Major JANDRELL, his crew and Capt. VILJOEN (Adm. Officer) left in Baltimore for MALTA. Seven D.C.3 American Transport Planes were allotted the Squadron to convey the ground crews, required for operations over to MALTA. All the aircraft were in the air by about 1200 Hrs. This was the first time that part of the Squadron was moved by air. Instructions were received from the O.C. No. 3 Wing that 16 Baltimores with complete crews had to leave for MALTA the following day. Everything was brought to readiness for this move. Eleven replacements for ground crews arrived CASTEL BENITO.
An air raid alarm sounded at 22.30 hours; no enemy aircraft seen or heard. Lieuts. WHITEHOUSE and MUIR (pilots) reported for duty on posting from 12 squadron. Four Yank pilots accommodated in the Mess. They were forced to land here after a raid on MUNICH. Squadron Routine Order No. 69/44.