News received today that we move tomorrow to our new destination SIDI REZEGH, it will be somewhat of a problem moving the squadron with the available transport at hand!
Three of our Marylands with six of those of No 12 Squadron took part in a raid on BENINA aerodrome today. The results were very good. But after leaving the target area the Marylands hit trouble in a big way in the form of some 109’s. One aircraft of no 12 Squadron was shot down in flames whilst the rear gunners in one of 12 Squadron’s and one of our aircraft were severely wounded. Jan Visser brought his aircraft back to L.G. 76 and the two gunners were immediately sent off to hospital. Metcalfe brought his aircraft down at EL ADEM and his two gunners Rosen and Cox were rushed off to Hospital. Both were wounded but there is hope of their ultimate recovery. In the combat two ME 109’s were shot down one by 12 Squadron and the other by the rear gunners of our aircraft. Our last night at O.L.G. passed off uneventfully with preparations for the morrows move well advanced.
Our com. aircraft, 693, arrived with post, pay and food. The Commanding Officer who is piloting her, will return to L.G. 98 tomorrow.
The weather was good to-day and the Squadron carried out another raid. The target for this operation was four merchant vessels in the area U.1679 (Southern tip of PASMAN ISLAND, YUGOSLAVIA). The first box concentrated on the larger vessel which was moored 200 yards to the EAST of another one; the second box on the remainder. Most of the bombs from the first box overshot the target but two near misses were observed; the bombs from the second box fell in pattern slightly N.E. of target. All aircraft returned safely at 14.08 hours. Sortie Report No. 488.
A signal was received to the effect that Enemy paratroopers were in the vicinity of this camp, but nothing further seen or heard.
Squadron Routine Order No. 113/44.