A terrific dust-storm broke out during the day and continued until well after dark. Today marked the first anniversary of the formation of the squadron in East Africa. The occasion was to be celebrated in true South African style. The day was spent in getting everything ship shape for the evening. The event was being celebrated by a Sing-Song and Braaivleisaand.
Visitors included Major McBlaine. Deputy S.A.O.A. and Lt. Robinson war diary "bloke" from Headquarters, the O.C. and officers of 55 Squadron and several officers from neighbouring squadrons and from base. The affair opened with the Squadron orchestra led by Holly White playing the signature tune "Forward to happiness" followed by a selection of the old numbers enshrined in our memories stretching from the leaving of the Union through East Africa and on through the desert, Libya and back again.
Then the O.C. made a stirring speech and was received with deafening applause. After some more musical items, Lieut. O.C. Elliott, F/Sgt Barry Truter and A/Cpl L. Roberts gave us their impressions of the squadron they have served for such a long period with “we remember” and then of course we had to have old Japie who brought the house down with his “Memories”.
The moment of moments came when Col. Irvine cut the gigantic cake. A monster weighing more than 200 lbs. – it really looked very fine decked with its Maryland on the top. By this time the ring of fires were flickering and soon willing helpers dished out beer, bread and meat to the assembled crowd who soon broke up and clustered around the various fires. It was a happy sight, reminiscent of happier days "way down South" – a veritable braaivleisaand – soon the squadron boere orkes swung into the well known and loved liedjies of our veld with "Sarie Marais" – "Suikerbossie" and all the rest.
After all had eaten their fill the concert was resumed with community singing and impromptu items and requests until a late hour. It was indeed a fine evening enjoyed by all – a fitting celebration of this our first anniversary.