The day was marked by very good weather enabling two operations to be carried out. On the first raid twelve Baltimores took off to attack a Tank Repair Shop near TIVOLI, in conjunction with 223 Squadron (21 Squadron leading). The formation undershot slightly and the pattern of bombs commenced about 400 yards short and extended into the S.W. corner of the target, where a large explosion was observed with white smoke in the centre. A direct his is claimed on a building about 400 yards S.E. of target. No enemy opposition in the target area, but four bursts of heavy, accurate Ack Ack shortly after crossing bomb line holed one of the aircraft. 8 Spitfires provided cover. All aircraft returned to base by 11.15 hours.
Capt. Carter, Lieuts. Frost, White, Carter and W.O.II. Crawhall left for BARI on R.T.U. as tour expired. Lieut. Rabinowitz was posted to CAIRO on Medical Grounds. Capt. Robinson of the War Diary Department paid the Squadron a visit.
On the second raid of the day twelve of our aircraft took off at 13.45 hours to bomb the station and marshalling yards at FABRIANO. The target was straddled by the whole formation with numerous direct hits on the marshalling yards and station, and on two locomotives. Large pall of yellow-brown smoke, followed by fire, WEST of target was observed. Four Spitfires, provided area cover, and no enemy opposition encountered in target area but moderate Light Ack Ack from PONTO S. GIORGIO on return. All aircraft returned to base by 15.45 hours. Sortie Report No. 587.
Squadron Routine Order No. 22/44