Major R. HUGHES, from D.H.Q., Pretoria, visited the Squadron and instructed concerning the new Nomenclature Schedule. This was duly prepared in its correct form and signed by Major HUGHES and the Adjutant as agreed to take effect from 18/8/41.
It must recorded here that Major Hughes’ visit was very much appreciated, not only because of the resulting clearing up of mustering anomalies, but also because it signified a really efficient expression of policy. The fact that an Officer was sent to complete a certain task, with FULL POWERS to carry out his instructions IN SITU and to sign to that effect on behalf of the S.A.A.F., (D. of A.P.), without intermediate reference back to Headquarters, marks a step which could well be emulated in other departments, avoiding, by direct reference, the confusion of multi-reference, which so often exists. Major Hughes is to be congratulated on his personal efforts to bring about this state of affairs.
Additional Administrative personnel arrived from S.A.A.F. Base depot this afternoon — including a Squadron Sergeant Major and WOII to take charge of Records and Registry.
Four Baltimores took off at ten minute intervals from 0050 Hrs. on an armed recce of the road PELLARO POINT – GIOLA TAURD. No movement seen. Bombs dropped and seen to explode across roads and river bed. Four Searchlights bombed S.E VILLA S GIOVANNI and three immediately extinguished. Four bursts H.A.A from VILLA S GIOVANNI, inaccurate. NO searchlights seen from GIOVANNI fairly accurate and some seen from a distance at CALBRIA. Sortie Report and Crew List.
Lt. Col. Coppen left for the African coast and relinquished the Command of the 21 Squadron. We learn that his successor is Lt. Col. J. F. Britz, D.F.C, who in Abbysinia, was a member of the famed forerunner to this Squadron, and also a pioneer of the Squadron. So we bid farewell to another O.C, who has rendered sterling service in the 7 months he has Commanded the Squadron. Lt Locker , our famous Transport Officer, also left this morning. He has also rendered excellent service and his loss to the Squadron will be felt. He has at all times kept our ‘gharries’, although ‘clapped out’, going and has never spared himself in trying to improve the transport situation.
Rear party
A message was received that the Squadron personnel at MALTA, would arrive the following day. One Storeman “T” and one Sheetmetal worker reported for duty, ex Advance S.A.A.F. Base Depot.
Twelve Marauders airborne at 09.10 hours to attack Railroad Bridge near ROVIGO. The raid was led by Major MEAKER. The Leader's bombsight went U/s. and the second box moved up and took over. The first box straddled bridge in centre, but no direct hits were observed. Second box right hand error with possible direct hit. No enemy aircraft or flak encountered.
All aircraft returned by 12.20 hours. Sortie Report No. 798.
Squadron Routine Order No. 75/44.