The post truck brought a pleasant surprise this afternoon in the shape of some of our personnel who had recently flown down to the Union to assist in the ferrying of our Baltimore aircraft to the Middle East. They had come up as passengers in the four Baltimores which completed the journey out of a flight of six, two aircraft having fallen out en route owing to engine trouble.This was our first intimation that the aircraft had in fact arrived and there was considerable excitement in the squadron at the news. The aircraft had been temporarily parked at Ferry Control (L.G. No. 224) and the pilots, like Oliver Twist, had returned for more.
Further aircraft were expected in the near future and the squadron fairly hummed with excitement. Many toasts were drunk in the various messes to returned comrades and to the future of the squadron and what with the impending departure of our popular Adjutant, the farewell concert in his honour was something of a boisterous affair. Major O'BRIEN took leave of his “large family” referring in his farewell speech to the contacts and friendships made in all sections of the squadron, during a long and full year on Active Service. The best wishes of the squadron accompany Major O'BRIEN on his return to Southern Shores.
Opportunity was also taken to welcome the new Adjutant, Major RECK, and in a brief speech Major RECK stated he was proud to be joining this squadron and would always work in the interests of the men who went to make up the squadron.
12 Baltimores led by Major JANDRELL bombed MILAZZO harbour. Bombs overshot and some fell in the sea and some in the target area. A.A. moderate and accurate. Five aircraft holed. Capt SMIT's aircraft was hit by shrapnel and the hydraulic system was rendered unserviceable. He landed at base with his undercarriage retracted. 2nd Lt TOMS (Air Gunner) was wounded in his right leg by shrapnel. Rest of the crew unhurt.
“Oprep” No. 353. Sortie Report and Crew List.
Capt. Stuart led the second formation of 12 Baltimores and took off at 1555 Hrs. to bomb MILAZZO Railway Station. Bombs covered the area from station to Northern tip of Harbour. One fire was started in Oil Refinery. Near hits were also scored on wharf, sea plane jetty, and a seaplane A.A. was intense and accurate but NO damage suffered.
“Oprep” No.354, Sortie Report and Crew List.
Lieut. Blieden and crew flew to BEN HAGEN this afternoon.
Instructions were received from Wing that all R.T.U., A.P.C's and non signees were to be cleared on the 28th as they had to leave on the 29th instant. Instructions were also received that the overseas move, by sea, of the remainder of Squadron personnel and equipment would take place soon and that everything was to be brought to readiness for this move. Two serviceable aircraft had to leave for MALTA in the afternoon but owing to bad weather the flight was cancelled and was scheduled for the following day. Movement Instruction (3W/7/3)