Today was a"stand down", and it was the squadron's salvation, the day was spent in “licking our wounds”. One can see the difference. Overnight the squadron has changed and is now functioning as a ruthless instrument of destruction – and revenge.
We have lost ten crews, forty good men and true and although we have hit back most effectively, it is a telling drain to lose one's pals day after day. But we shall avenge them, one and all. It was indeed a stirring sight to see all the gunners, grim faced and tightlipped, cleaning their guns and tending them carefully – the days of reckoning are ahead and bombs below, front guns ahead rear guns behind the 21 Squadron Marylands will take their mounting toll of the enemy, for is not our motto 'Onoorwinlik’ ?
Squadron on stand-by but no operational flying. Eighteen aircraft engaged on training and R/T testing. Wing advises that Field Marshal SMUTS will be paying the Wing a short visit tomorrow.
Oprep No. 149
A formation of Baltimores took off from 08.34 hours in threatening weather to attack gun and troop positions at C. 395041. During the bomb run, Re-call was received. First box hit target, the second undershot slightly. The visibility was poor at Base but excellent over Target. Aircraft proceeded to MADNA and CANNE Landing Grounds, where eleven landed. One aircraft, due to conflicting ground signals, proceeded to Base and landed in rain at 10.40 hours. Heavy rain continued throughout the day and night.
Sortie Report No. 453