Today saw the old squadron spring to life with a vengeance. From a state of 'stand down' to nine aircraft ‘airborne for vengeance’ only twenty-five minutes elapsed!! This must indeed be a record and Buck Sheedy and his gang of ever willing mechanics must be complimented on their speed in getting the aircraft on their way. It speaks volumes for the keenness of the aircrews who were not even in a state of preparedness that they could attire themselves, be briefed by the O.C. and in the air, all in 25 minutes. Nice work boys. It was an early afternoon show over BIR-EL-HACHEIM with nine Marylands led by Major Mike. It was a field day for the boys who had two squadrons of fighters to escort them over the target.
The target of dispersed M.T. vehicles was well and truly plastered by the 250 pounders and the enemy were given an unpleasant shake up. Buck Sheedy was further rewarded for the days good work when the news of his third 'pip\* came through and the squadron rejoiced. Buck is one of the Gang and one of the all too few Irish-Afrikaners in the squadron. Our booze is down to zero but the party is still pending. Piet Carroll also one of the gang down at base at L.G. 21 also get his third so it looks like a drinkup one of these sunny days!!!
No flying: Oprep No. 150
1300
Wing, Nos. 12, 21 and 24 Squadrons and B.G.M.C. fell in at our wind-sock to meet Field-Marshal SMUTS whose arrival was considerably delayed. His stay was disappointingly brief and he took off immediately after a short address.
No operations to-day. The aircrews left camp in lorries in order to fetch the aircraft left at MADNA and CANNE the previous day. Everyone had returned by mid-day.
Squadron Routine Order No. 91/43