In preparation for future calls for refuelling on 0.75, three details of this squadron, together with three from 12 Squadron, proceeded to this landing ground with a refuelling bowser, so that planes en route to BENGHASI would be attended to as regards refuelling requirements with a minimum of delay.
As the squadron again had a stand-down from operations today, all pilots attended a lecture given by the Engineer Officer, Lieut. Sheedy, who described the care and maintenance of Aero-Engines.
A phone-call was made by Major. O' Brien who was in CAIRO arranging that transport be sent from the Squadron to SUEZ to pick up details arriving as replacements for men scheduled to return to the Union and also reinforcements for the squadron. Transport was dispatched to proceed direct to SUEZ Transit Camp to collect the details concerned, six trucks setting out within two hours of the notice having been received.
1518
Fifteen Baltimores took off with three Bostons of 12 Squadron the target being dispersed aircraft on L.G. 17. Intense and accurate ack-ack was encountered. Baltimore 912 being shot down in flames over enemy territory; Pilot - 48043 Captain J.G. POTGIETER, Observer – 102306 Lieut. L.E.BENNETT, W/Op. – 279732 A/Sgt. E.S. van der MERWE., A/Gunner – 47960 F/Sgt. J. van LOGGERENBERG; two parachutes were seen to open; two Observers, 102530 A/Sgt. PEARCE J. and 236413 A/Sgt. VORSTER P.C. were wounded by shrapnel and after treatment at the Squadron Sick Bay, were transferred to 21 M.R.S.
Sortie Report (Oprep. Ref. No. 97)
Routine Order No. 50/42
Routine Order No. 51/42
Early next morning the journey across to the East Coast commenced. This was another steep climb through the beautiful mountainous country; by mid-day the mountains had been negotiated and the convoy ran smoothly across flat country until a blown up bridge was encountered. Everyone in the party set to and within four hours, a strong and serviceable bridge had been built and the convoy were again on its way. The night halt was made at CASSANA, where a further supply of petrol caught up with the convoy.