24 Marauders briefed to attack Enemy strongpoints in the RIMINI area. The bombs of the first and second boxes fell in the centre of the target, with numerous direct hits on buildings and what appeared to be dug-in positions. Third box undershot, pattern commencing outside but finishing just inside the target area. One aircraft returned early due to engine trouble. Moderate, heavy A.A. from the target area – mostly at the 3rd box – no damage. Next three boxes attacked an area 5 miles S.S.W. of RIMINI. Fourth box undershot badly due to U/s bombsight; fifth and sixth boxes undershot slightly, patterns finishing in target area. No enemy opposition. Last aircraft down by 17.22 hours.
Sortie Report No. 824.
2/Lt. VANDE PUTTE, observer, who left us as O.T.E. at CAMPOMARINA, reported for duty on a second tour.