Today despite our depleted Mayfly, we undertook two shows. A magnificent tribute not only to our aircrews but to the mechanics who are continuing to do a splendid job of work in the most adverse conditions. They surely deserve a rest after their gruelling time in the field!
The early morning show was a joint effort of four aircraft from each squadron with 12 leading on BENINA L.G. The whole area of the drome and hangars was well plastered. The photos reveal that three hangars and a large building received direct hits and two aircraft were seen burning fiercely near the hangars. Several more aircraft were severely damaged and the area was given a real “shake up”.
The afternoon show was against BENINA drome when five of our Marylands joined by two from 12 squadron attacked the landing ground and aircraft. It was the climax of a series of most damaging and successful raids and from the very excellent photos take it would appear that seven aircraft were burnt out, nine badly damaged and probably written off and several damaged from fragmentation. It is a magnificent tribute to the young aircrews that they have carried on the great work in such a spirited and successful fashion.
Today saw the balance of “A” party on their way to SIDI REZEGH. The news seems to be good and our boys are giving the Jerry no rest.
This evening we had an informal concert in the O.C.’s dugout. It was a welcome to Major “Tich" Baxter to the squadron and the gang were there in full force with "Piet” van der Merwe and Holly White and his orchestra. We are definitely getting the Xmas spirit in the squadron and the night passed by merrily.
Jerry stooged over but disappeared early and we had a good night’s rest.
Routine Order No. 61/42
Advice received that No. 100290 Lieut. D.A. STEYN, our Armament Officer, is promoted to T/Captain w.e.f. 7 Nov. 42. There was considerable rejoicing and celebrating amongst the Electricians and Armourers as 23 replacements (15 and 8, respectively) have arrived and the tour-expired personnel are being posted to S.A.A.F. Depot for R.T.U.
Further postings in: Three air crews including No. 605 Lieut. S.G. ISAACS (Pilot), 103719 Lieut. A.J. COOPER (Observer), 205406 Lieut. G.G. JACKSON, (Pilot) 103870 Lieut. J.E. DIGBY (Observer), 103483 Lieut.. S. LINDENBERG, (Pilot) 2065712/ LT. J. F. v. RYNEVELD (Observer) – the first two crews coming from S.A.A.F. Depot and the third from No. 60 Squadron. Three other ranks (Wireless Operators) posted in from S.A.A.F. Depot.
There were three air raid alerts during the early part of the night but no bombs were dropped.