Mr. D. FRIEDMAN, London Editor of the S.A. Press Association and brother of W.O.11 FRIEDMAN, J., of this Squadron, accompanied by Flight Lieut., G. MARTIN of Command Press, M.E., arrived by appointment to visit the Squadron. He was on an extended tour of S.A. Units in the Middle East, having just arrived from England.
An interesting discussion was held with Mr. FRIEDMAN during which the value of publicising (through the means of Press reports and photographs) the activities of Squadrons on active service. It was mutually felt that this method was the most effective stimulant to recruiting, and Mr. FRIEDMAN cited instances of this in the course of his experiences in London and also during his stay in the Middle East, A Press “handout” in regard to the activities of the Squadron was sent to the Union by Mr FRIEDMAN and also circulated to local newspapers and news circuits in CAIRO.
A German recce. plane flying at great height passed over this morning. Squadron personnel saw the A. A. fire bursting below and away before the aircraft disappeared from sight.
General flying carried out.
Twelve Baltimores, led by Capt. Stuart took off at 0945 Hrs. and attacked the rail road junction at LAMEZIA. Most bombs were dropped, when bomb fell on Leader opening bomb door, most of the bombs fell one or two miles S.W of the target, some falling across a road. Eight bombs dropped and may have been in target area. Eight bombs held and dropped on Western and S.E side of railroad apex. One direct hit on Western side. Leading Boston Formation seen to hit target. Slight H.A.A experienced, also turn-off on NORTH of LAMEZIA, inaccurate.
One F.W 190 seen NORTH of target at 6000’, attacked by escorting Spitfires and driven into cloud. Sortie Report and Crew List.
Another rainstorm, this time everyone was ready for it and no tents were blown down. In regard to the unserviceability and condition of our Transport, see attached minute addressed to, Commanding Officer No. 3 Wing.
23 Marauders briefed during the day to attack strong points in the Pesaro area in support of the Army. 15 aircraft in three boxes of four and three aircraft attacked area known as No. 4 with its centre at S.055788; two formations straddled centre portion with all bombs in the area; third box overshot by about 1000 yards but good percentage of bombs fell in an adjoining target area. One aircraft of this box returned early with bombs, due to engine trouble.
Fifth and sixth formations briefed to attack area around S.060 & 90 known as Target No. 3. One box of four aircraft straddled target with all Its bombs, and the other overshot by 1500 yards due to aircraft in the area interfering with bombing run. Only one formation encountered slight, accurate ack-ack, two aircraft being holed. Last aircraft down by 16.45 hours.
Sortie Report No. 810.
Another heavy days’ work for the Squadron. The shuttle service calls for an all-out effort on the part of the aircrews and ground staff. Although the day provided such a strain on everyone the prospects of the evening's entertainment renewed their efforts. The aircrews had decided to show their appreciation of the ground crews labours during the conversion period by organising a "braai vleis" - and what a show it was ! 20 sheep had been purchased at £6 each and were slaughtered in CHIETI. A suitable piece of ground was selected near the Airmens' Mess, tables were set at different parts containing the meat, bread and fruit, great piles of wood were distributed around the arena, and by 18.45 hours there was an air of expectancy prevalent. The C.O. Lt. Col. Jandrell, D.F.C. mounted the platform, which accommodated the "Iti" band, and in a few words thanked the ground staff for their great efforts; his humorous remarks gave a start to the gathering and a little later ques were to be
seen where the necessary food was dispensed. Some fellows resembled Father Neptune holding their long forks which they had made to cook the meat. Everywhere one could see fellows sitting on their haunches besides their respective fires. Good humoured chaff could be heard from all quarters. Later in the evening a concert developed which proved a great success.
At 11.15 hours a great stir was caused in the Squadron when a Liberator was seen to be flying out of control to the West of Pescara Aerodrome. A few moments later nine parachutes were seen to open and it was learned later that all were safe, and unhurt except for a few minor scratches and were the guests of 24 Squadron. The machine crashed with a final terrific roar beyond the hills on the Southern side of Pescara. This was the first occasion on which practically all the Squadron had witnessed a forced descent by members of a large bomber.