Information received from 3 Wing that we will in all probability move over to LUQA Landing Ground for night ops. Later it was decided, instead of moving the Squadron complete with personnel and aircraft, only the aircraft required for night operations will be flown over in the afternoon and back to HAL FAR the following morning.
One of our aircraft which had to be flown to a Maintenance Unit for engine change, crashed just as it became airborne and was completely burnt out. The ferrying crew, members of No. 4 A.D.U were killed.
One aircraft piloted by Major Cormack took off at 2030 Hrs. from LUQA L.G. to bomb the roads RANDAZZO – LINGUALGLASSO – NOVARA. The bombs fell in a long stick at square C.9211 (Map reference 1:500,000 SICILIA NE 36/12). All bombs seen to explode. No results observed, 8 to 10 bursts, H.A.A inaccurate A.A from WEST of RANDAZZO, where guns were seen flashing. Landed at LUQA 2255 hrs. Sortie Report and Crew List.