O.C. and Adj. visited this station to make final arrangements regarding the transfer of the camp – messing, hygiene and other matters were discussed with Station authorities. It was decided, that separate messes for our Cape Corps, Airmen and Sergeants would be opened but that the Officers of the Squadron would mess with the Station personnel.
Only two D.C 3’s arrived this morning and again a shuttle service was run. The pilots did very well, each made four trips and the last of the Squadron’s personnel arrived in SICILY at 1900 Hrs. It was a great day to have all the boys together again and there were celebrations in the various Messes this evening, as there is no place like home and the Squadron liquor price will not effect their already overdrawn paybooks.
It is desired to place on record the assistance and ready co-operation received from the R.A.F Station, Staff, HAL FAR, MALTA. The smooth running of the Squadron during its stay in MALTA, is largely attributed to their assistance.
The aircrews went out to the Aerodrome and made fire-breaks round the runway and dispersal area. Instructions were received from 3 Wing that Capt. Schoch had to report, for temporary duty there.
Movement of Units of Tactical Bomber Force to GERBINI area, Appendix “B”
Twelve Marauders from Pescara by 08.45 hours to attack the PORTO MAGGIORE Marshalling Yards. Two aircraft returned after 1.45 hours and 1.00 hrs. respectively and meanwhile reserve was despatched at 09.15 hours, which caught the formation at Pesara,
At which point 14 puffs of inaccurate, heavy ack-ack were directed at this aircraft just prior to joining formation. Eight Spits provided a close escort. Stick of first box straddled S. E. portion of yards, where explosions with orange coloured stroke resulted; bulk of bombs overshot along a road leading S.W. of target, where large explosions with black smoke was obtained in trees. Second box continued first's pattern into open country.
No enemy opposition and eleven aircraft down by 11.42 hours.
The raid was led by Major AITCHISON. Sortie Report No. 801.
Squadron Routine Order No. 76/44.