After several days patient waiting the Malta move was at last affected. D.C.3’s aircraft started to arrive from 0900 Hrs. to convey ground crews. One Baltimore piloted by Major JANDRELL, his crew and Capt. VILJOEN left for MALTA as an advance party.
1100
This aircraft arrived at LUQA Landing Ground at 1100 Hrs.and were advised that No. 3 S.A.A.F Wing will operate from HAL FAR L.G. and not from LUQA as intended in the first place. The aircraft took off again and landed at HAL FAR, where they were met by F/Lt. EVANS, Administrative Officer of the Station. NO aircraft or personnel were expected by them until the following day, however, they were very helpful and when the D.C.3’s started to arrive, billets for Officers, N.C.O’s and airmen were all arranged and everything went off without a hitch.
Transport seems to be the only drawback as only 3 ton lorries have been allocated to the Squadron for all the work including the conveyance of Air and ground crews to and from their billets, which are approximately two miles away from the landing ground.
It is hoped that everything will work out all right. Billets for all ranks are very comfortable and this would be a change from tent life.
NO Operational Flying. “Oprep”No. 345