The Benghasi "Old Boys" had another innings today when nine Marylands of "A" flight under leadership of Major "Mike" Fowler attacked BERKA aerodrome near BENGHASI. Weather conditions were foul, visibility almost nil and no results were observed. It was not one of our best efforts. In the evening the Squadron was kept on the "qui vive" by the jerries bombing of FUKA. Quite a few tons of H.E. must have been showered down.
Two raids today, each of 18 aircraft, the targets being dispersed aircraft on L.G. 09 and the second on retreating M.T. along the road from the QATTARA Depression North-East to the coast. The report put in on return from the second raid was the first advice received by our side of the beginning of the enemy withdrawal. This was regarded by A.H.Q., W. D., as one of the best recces. ever carried out by a bomber squadron and, on receipt of the information high pressure shuttle-service was commenced without delay.
First raid: Oprep. No. 130, Sortie Report and Crew List
Second raid: Oprep.No. 131, Sortie Report and Crew List
One other rank (Disciplinary) posted in from S.A.A.F. Depot.
A formation took off to attack a road junction at ALFEDENA. After the target area had been hit and covered in fine pattern, the aircraft turned for home and encountered heavy Ack Ack fire. The leader of the formation Lt. Col Britz, and the No. 3 of his second Vic, Capt. Dieu (a Belgian pilot) were seen to collide. In descending, the propeller of the Colonel’s machine cut the tail clean off Capt. Dieu’s plane; both aircraft were seen spinning towards the earth. Only one parachute was seen to open.
Sortie Report No. 432