During this time the aircraft were being equipped for active service. They had been delivered with many guns short, but these were finally obtained and fitted.
An important modification was designed and constructed by Squadron personnel. A rotating turret was constructed giving a full sweep from wingtip to wingtip allowing for heavier armament and a much greater angle of fire control. The O.C. flew to Nairobi to demonstrate it to the A.O.C. who expressed his interest and approval. Thereafter all the aircraft were thus modified.
The A.O.C. (E.A.) Air Commodore SOWREY, D.F.C., A.F.C., arrived at NAKURU at the invitation of Major PRETORIUS, for a final inspection of the squadron prior to its departure for Middle East. The parade was formed up in a hollow square within a square formed by aircraft and crews. After individual inspection of aircraft crews, the A.O.C. addressed the whole squadron. He made particular reference to the exploits of No. 11 Squadron in Abyssinia and quoted some of the actions in which they were engaged, as being the foundation of the spirit and tradition of the now newly numbered No. 21 Squadron. He mentioned the gallant conduct of Lieut. S.W. MURRAY on the occasion of his attempt to rescue Capt. BRITZ when the latter was shot down at KOMBOLSHA, Near DESSIE. (Lt. MURRAY has since been recommended for the D.F.C. on account of this incident and consistently good service).
After wishing the Squadron “Good Luck”, the parade was dismissed and followed by a demonstration of tactical manoeuvres by the O.C. and two flight Commanders.
Promotions
The two flight commanders, Capts. M.H. FOWLER and J.F. BRITZ were promoted to the rank of T/Major w.e.f. 30th May, 1941 authority AG (1) 736/12 June 24.
Returns of Recommendations for increments and Promotions of Other Ranks submitted to A.H.Q., E.A., who advised that in any promotions which would involve over-establishment, the details concerned would be returned to the Union. Opportunity was taken to ensure that those were known to be strongly deserving of return to the Union were rendered “supernumerary to Establishment” by means of replacements and suitable promotions, with the desired result, that all other means of returning them having been refused, they were duly posted “off strength” and have now been sent to the Union.
Health
During the period under review the health of the Squadron was on the whole, very good. Of the 115 details who came up from the Union by road convoy, however, many contracted Malaria after arriving at Nakuru.
Three details of No. 11 Squadron, who had contracted chronic malaria were returned to the Union as being unfit for further service up North.