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92 Squadron, form 540
The RAF Form 540, also known as the "Summary of Events" in an Operations Record Book (ORB), is a historical record that provides a brief narrative of a unit's activities, such as operations, official visits, and special events. It was designed to create a consistent way for all RAF units, including squadrons and headquarters, to document their history during both wartime and peacetime.
The entries have been typed out below, exactly as they were written, except that the day of the week has been added for each date, and icons have been added indicating when enemy aircraft have been shot down, when a member of the Squadron had been awarded a medal or when a member of the Squadron had to bail out or finally, and most regrettably, when a member of the Squadron was killed in action.
Please click on a month to take you directly to that section
The entries for January 1941 to the end of August 1942 are missing, they resume in September 1942
01/10/41 (Wednesday) Bright and clear. Some practice flying during the morning. A sweep went off during the afternoon and all returned safely. F/Sgt. KINGABY DFM. scored one confirmed and one probable.
02/10/41 (Thursday) Another bright warm day. A sweep went off at 1200 hours for BIGGIN HILL. One section returned at 1430 hours to GRAVESEND. No combats had taken place by any of this section. The second section however, met with many enemy aircraft and only one of the four returned. The other three, F/Lt. LUND, Sgt. EDGE, and Sgt. PORT were all reported missing. P/O. BRUCE was injured when he crash landed at ASHFORD, KENT. He is now in hospital. A very bad day for 92.
03/10/41 (Friday) Another clear day. A sweep took off from BIGGIN HILL at 1330 and again 92 went into action over FRANCE. The first section led by the COMMANDING OFFICER returned alright but the second section again ran into superior numbers of 109's and Sgt. COX and Sgt. Wood-SCAWEN were shot down. Sgt. KINGABY DFM. shot down a 109F, but had to land at MANSTON. This made a total of five pilots lost and seven Spitfires written off in two days. A very bad show.
04/10/41 (Saturday) Dull with rain all day. No operational flying possible. Bad weather continued throughout the day.
05/10/41 (Sunday) Dull and misty. No flying possible. Squadron was released off camp at 1000 hours. Rain fell later in the day.
06/10/41 (Monday) Much ground mist in the morning but it cleared during the day. Very warm and bright. Squadron released for the rest of the day at 1400 hours. Some practise flying during the afternoon.
07/10/41 (Tuesday) No flying all day owing to ground mist.
08/10/41 (Wednesday) Some practise flying this afternoon when the mist cleared.
09/10/41 (Thursday) Squadron released off camp all day. Dull and wet all day.
10/10/41 (Friday) This is the second anniversary of the formation of 92 Squadron. The squadron was formed at TANGMERE on the 10th October, 1939 by SQUADRON LEADER BUSHELL. Only 34 of the original boys of the squadron are now serving with it and a party was given by them in LONDON today. They left GRAVESEND in a coach for LONDON at 1400. They had invited SQUADRON LEADER R. M. MILNE. DFC. the present COMMANDING OFFICER, FLYING OFFICER. H.W. McGOWAN the Adjutant and FLYING OFFICER.T.A.WIESE the Intelligence Officer. The party attended a performance at Victoria Palace of 'Black Vanities' and afterwards had dinner at Oddeninos’. It was a very successful party and the spirit of the 'Gallant' 92' was revived to its old place in the hearts of all who had served with the grand squadron.
11/10/41 (Saturday) Bright and cold today. There was a good deal of mist to the South so no operations were carried out. A good deal of practise flying was done over base.
12/10/41 (Sunday) Another bright day. A sweep with bombers was carried out this morning. All our boys got back. Sgt. GAUTHIER crash landed owing to engine failure at FRISTON near EASTBOURNE. Squadron released in the afternoon.
13/10/41 (Monday) Weather good again with clear sky. A sweep went off today escorting bombers to a power station near LILLE. All the boys returned safely. The C.O. accounted for three 109's and damaged a fourth. This is the best single score since 92 became operational and the squadron is very proud indeed of the splendid work of Squadron Leader Milne today. We have now reached the Splendid total of 193 destroyed.
14/10/41 (Tuesday) Dull and wet. The COMMANDING OFFICER and F/Lt. SANDERSON went to a conference at BIGGIN HILL today at 09.30 hours. Some practice flying over base.
15/10/41 (Wednesday) No operational flying took place owing to adverse weather conditions. Some practice flying during the day.
16/10/41 (Thursday) Dull with a good deal of cloud. A lot of practice flying was carried out all day.Tho C.O. got orders to leave on a special mission to the MIDDLE EAST tomorrow.
17/10/41 (Friday) Beautiful day. Squadron Leader MILNE DFC. left at 0900 to everyone’s regret. GROUP CAPTAIN BARWELL called on the Squadron during the morning from BIGGIN HILL. Some practice flying done during the day.
18/10/41 (Saturday) Another bright day with some ground mist. Some practise flying during the day. All preparations are being made for the move to DIGBY on Monday.
19/10/41 (Sunday) Beautiful day. Most of the day was spent packing for the move tomorrow.
20/10/41 (Monday) Another bright clear day. The squadron moved to DIGBY at 0900 hours and the move completed by 1800 hours. Nineteen machines were flown over from GRAVESEND. First impressions of the new station were not good at all. The outgoing Squadron took everything with them and caused the squadron to be U.S. The airmen were badly housed several sleeping on the floor.
DIGBY
21/10/41 (Tuesday) Our first day at DIGBY. Practise flying all day. The weather clear and bright. Spares have been collected and the squadron is now able to come to Readiness. Some dusk patrols.
22/10/41 (Wednesday) Bright and clear. Further practise flying all day. Some Night Flying. A non-operational station does not suit the pilots of 92.
23/10/41 (Thursday) Another good day. Signal received that S/Ldr. G. A. L. CHEATLE of 266 Squadron is to take temporary command of 92 until the return of S/Ldr. R. M. MILNE DFC. He is to report on the 27th. Some practise flying during the day and three pilots did Night Flying.
24/10/41 (Friday) Beautiful day with some wind. A sweep took place over the WASH at 1300 hours. Nothing was seen by any of our pilots and after about an hour they all returned to base. The weather deteriorated in the afternoon and no more flying was done.
25/10/41 (Saturday) Dull with ground mist. No flying. ‘A’ Flight on readiness at 1300 hours.
26/10/41 (Sunday) Some practise flying. Squadron released at noon. Bright with showers.
27/10/41 (Monday) Dull with ground mist. Some practise flying during the morning. Squadron 30 minutes at 1300 hours. Adverse weather conditions stopped all flying later in the day. Fighter Nights. No action.
28/10/41 (Tuesday) COMMANDING OFFICER CHEATLE
Bright and cold. Some practise flying during the day. S/Ldr. CHEATLE reported for Temporary Command of 92. P/O. ARCHER is to be posted for duty with M.S.F.U. and P/O’s DUKE and HUMPHREYS are to go overseas as Flight Commanders. 92 is being broken up and only three of the pilots have been with us more than three months.
29/10/41 (Wednesday) Dull with cloud this morning. No flying took place all day. Snow showers in the afternoon and a very cold wind. Squadron was released during the afternoon. SIR PAUL DUKES gave a lecture in the mess in the evening about RUSSIA.
30/10/41 (Thursday) Cold and bright. 30 minutes till 1900 hours.
31/10/41 (Friday) Dull with heavy rain cleared up later in the morning. Some practise flying carried out.
01/11/41 (Saturday) Showery and cold. Some practice flying during the morning. Squadron released in afternoon.
02/11/41 (Sunday) Bright with some cloud. Some practice flying during the day on fighter nights procedure. F/Sgt. D. E. KINGABY DFM. And BAR received his second bar to his DFM. "Good show Donald". He is now posted to an O.T.U. at GRANGEMOUTH. P/O’s HUMPHREYS and DUKE were posted as F/Lts to the MIDDLE EAST and left tonight. Sgt. PAVELY was posted to MANSTON also. The whole squadron were very sorry indeed to see those grand boys leave 92.
03/11/41 (Monday) Dull with some cloud. Some convoy patrols and practice flying. Squadron released at 1300 hours.
04/11/41 (Tuesday) Dull with rain. Very little flying today.
05/11/41 (Wednesday) Dull, some practice flying. Signal from H.Q.F.C. that SQUADRON LEADER MILNE has been awarded a BAR to his DFC. “Good show Dicky”. F/Lt. SANDERSON went into hospital for examination.
06/11/41 (Thursday) Dull again. Some firing practice from SUTTON BRIDGE this morning. We were all delighted when WING COMMANDER RANKIN DFC. and BAR came to see his old squadron today.
07/11/41 (Friday) Bright with some ground mist. Seven Sgt. pilots were interviewed for Commissions today. Some practice flying. No Night Flying.
08/11/41 (Saturday) Bright and frosty. Allan Wright called in to see us today, he is now at Fighter Command. Not much flying. P/O. BEAKE put up for Flight Lieutenant as F/Lt. SANDERSON is in hospital and posted to SHQ, DIGBY.
09/11/41 (Sunday) Dull with mist. F/Lt. RICHARDSON recommended for promotion to Squadron Leader and P/O’s ARCHER and BRUCE to be F/Lts. Soon we will have no operational pilots in the Squadron.
10/11/41 (Monday) Some practice flying. Weather very bad with rain and low cloud. Squadron released at 1300. Lecture on gas in the afternoon.
11/11/41 (Tuesday) Bright with some cloud. Weather got very bad later in the day. Sgt. KENNEDY crashed in YORKSHIRE hawing got lost on a practice flight. He was injured and is in Hospital.
12/11/41 (Wednesday) A practice parade this morning. No flying all morning. P/O. ARCHER posted to 412 Sqdn at WELLINGORE, as F/Lt.
13/11/41 (Thursday) Very wet day. Parade for inspection at 1130 hours this morning. No flying all day.
14/11/41 (Friday) Wet day. No flying.
15/11/41 (Saturday) Some practice flying. Sgt. WOOLLEY hit F/Lt. RICHARDSON’S machine over LINCOLN at 2,000 feet and was killed. Sgt. WILSON crashed night landing and is in hospital.
16/11/41 (Sunday) Some practice flying. Bright and cold.
17/11/41 (Monday) Dull with some rain. Some practice flying.
18/11/41 (Tuesday) Bright and mild. Some practice flying. With the greatest regret TONY BRUCE left 92 to be a F/Lt. in 54 Squadron.
19/11/41 (Wednesday) Dull with heavy rain. No flying all morning. 411 Sqdn left DIGBY for HORNCHURCH today. 609 Sqdn arrived here from BIGGIN HILL.
20/11/41 S/Ldr. MILNE DFC & BAR returned to 92 today. Everyone was very pleased to see him back. Dull with rain. No flying all day. F/O. WIESE left 92 for GRAVESEND to be INTELLIGENCE OFFICER there to 72 Sqdn, after 18 months service as I.O. with 92.
21/11/41 (Friday) Brighter today. 609 Pilots have not yet arrived here nor have 411 pilots left owing to weather conditions. P/O.WHITTAMORE and Sgt. TITMUS are going on a RHUBARB this afternoon over HOLLAND. This was cancelled owing to weather conditions. P/O. GIBBS reported for duty as I.O.
22/11/41 (Saturday) Dull with low cloud. No flying all day.
23/11/41 (Sunday) Brighter today. Quite a lot of practice flying during the day.
24/11/41 (Monday) Mild and reasonably clear. Some practice flying. Squadron Leader CHEATLE left 92 on leave.
25/11/41 (Tuesday) Another mild day. Again practice flying took place most of the day.
26/11/41 (Wednesday) S/Ldr. MILNE DFC. and BAR went to a medical board at HALTON. Only practice flying today.
27/11/41 (Thursday) News was received that W/CMDR. RANKIN DFC. and BAR has been awarded his DSO. Much satisfaction in 92. No operational flying, some practice flying took place. Clear day.
28/11/41 (Friday) COMMANDING OFFICER MILNE
Clear and bright. Practice flying all day. S/Ldr. MILNE DFC. and BAR returned to duty from HALTON. A dance was hold by 92 tonight as a welcome to S/Ldr MILNE on his return to the squadron. It was a great show and all ranks had a very good time.
29/11/41 (Saturday) Damp and foggy. No flying possible. Squadron released.
30/11/41 (Sunday) Dull with heavy ground mist. No flying all day.
01/12/41 (Monday) Cold and misty, some practice flying in the afternoon.
02/12/41 (Tuesday) Cold and thick fog. No flying possible all morning. P/O’s DUNBAR and GORDON reported for duty from GRANGEMOUTH.
03/12/41 (Wednesday) Dull with low cloud. Some base flying in the afternoon.
04/12/41 (Thursday) Flying again impossible owing to bad weather conditions. Rain and mist.
05/12/41 (Friday) Clearer today. Conference at group today. Convoy patrol in the morning by one section.
06/12/41 (Saturday) Weather completely closed in. No flying at all.
07/12/41 (Sunday) Much brighter today, practice flying this morning. 2 sections on convoy patrol in the late afternoon.
08/12/41 (Monday) Convoy patrols, two sections only this morning, and three sections wore sent to MANBY later in the morning, but returned before lunch without having to do anything. The weather very fine this morning, but deteriorated later in the afternoon.
09/12/41 (Tuesday) Practice flying this morning. Released for games in the afternoon. P/O. JOHNSTON was welcomed back to the squadron today.
10/12/41 (Wednesday) No flying this morning owing to weather, this improved in the afternoon and some practise flying was done. P/O. SAMOUELLE returned to the squadron today.
11/12/41 (Thursday) Weather improved, squadron has two sections at Readiness; one at fifteen minutes and one at thirty in the morning. Squadron released for practice flying in the afternoon when some air to ground firing was done.
12/12/41 (Friday) Weather cleared a little today. Readiness this morning and at 60 minutes later. Sgt. GEE reported from 56 Squadron, and P/O.’s DUNBAR and GORDON have volunteered today for the MIDDLE EAST, they are both Canadians and have only recently been posted to us. Sgt. SIEFERT has been detailed as a reserve for the MIDDLE EAST.
13/12/41 (Saturday) to (Tuesday) 16/12/41 Not in the Record but practice flying took place.
17/12/41 (Wednesday) Readiness in the morning, weather still fine, released for games in the afternoon. P/O’s DUNBAR and GORDON leaving today for the EAST.
18/12/41 (Thursday) Squadron duty wing today, were brought to Readiness for a sweep, which was however cancelled. The weather is fine but hazy. Sgt. PAYNE RCAF, Sgt. WATSON RAAF, and Sgt. THOMPSON RAAF. arrived from 59 OTU today. Sgt’s FISH and PALMER have been detailed to C.F.S. DALCROSS.
19/12/41 (Friday) Weather closed in, no flying possible. The C.O. returned to us today.
20/12/41 (Saturday) Weather unfit for flying, squadron released for games this afternoon.
21/12/41 (Sunday) Squadron at 60 minutes all the morning. ‘B’ Flight did some local formation flying. Weather cleared a little in the afternoon, remained at 30 minutes.
22/12/41 (Monday) Weather hazy this morning, but cleared later. Squadron at readiness from 1300 hours. A scramble took place at 1500 hours which turned out to be a coastal command aircraft. Sgt. AHRENS was posted to 59 OTU. P/O. COCKER has been made Flight Commander of ‘A’ Flight, this is a popular choice and we are all very glad in having a Flight Commander we know.
23/12/41 (Tuesday) Convoy patrol in the morning, released for games in the afternoon. Weather improving.
24/12/41 (Wednesday) Nothing to report, weather too bad for flying.
25/12/41 (Thursday) Squadron were brought to Readiness at 1300 hours.
26/12/41 (Friday) Sections on convoy patrol this morning. Three sections were sent to MANBY, but were released later in the day. Transport sent to fetch Pilots from MANBY.
27/12/41 (Saturday) The squadron was withdrawn from the line at 1300 hours today.
28/12/41 (Sunday) Nothing to report.
29/12/41 (Monday) A lot of speculation as to where we are going is the main topic these days.
30/12/41 (Tuesday) Nothing to report.
31/12/41 (Wednesday) Nothing to report.
The entries for January 1941 to the end of August 1942 are missing, they resume in September 1942
01/09/42 (Tuesday) COMMANDING OFFICER WEDGWOOD
The battle is now on, and the air is full of aircraft. The Squadron went out on sorties today, and P/O. CHISHOLM got one confirmed, and ten were damaged by various other pilots. P/O.BRADLEY SMITH had to bale out, and his aircraft was a ‘write-off’, and the Commanding Officer’s aircraft and LT. SINCLAIR’S, attached from No. 1. S.A.A.F., were both damaged. P/O. SMITH was taken to No. 14 C.C.S. and from there to hospital. Early this morning, at about 0400 hours the camp was very heavily blitzed. Incendiaries and flares lit the place up like daylight, and anti-personnel bombs were scattered right through the camp from the landing ground to the hills. Several failed to go off. Unfortunately CORPORAL CUSTARD and L.A.C. BRETTER were both severely injured by an A.P. bomb, and another airman was slightly injured. The protection afforded by the slit trenches is very good. Squadron total of confirmed destroyed now 210½.
02/09/42 (Wednesday) The air warfare in the desert has now become very intense. The enemy are using large numbers of Me 109F’s and MACCHI 202’s. On a sortie this morning the Squadron met enemy aircraft, and LT. FAURE shot down a 109F, and LT. RABIE a MACCHI 202. Unfortunately LT. RABIE was later attacked and shot down, but he baled out successfully at 15,000 feet, and returned to the Unit in the afternoon. At the same time FLIGHT SERGEANT MOUNT was shot down and is missing. He was last seen going down in a steady dive with the machine under control. In the afternoon the Squadron was out on another sortie, and SQUADRON LEADER WEDGWOOD shot down a 109F - making his ninth victory - and FLIGHT LIEUTENANT MORGAN shot down another. Squadron total of confirmed destroyed now 214½.
03/09/42 (Thursday) On a sortie this afternoon FLIGHT LIEUTENANT SAMOUELLE damaged a Me 109F. Since becoming operational in the M.E. Command, the Squadron total is 21 destroyed, 7 probables, and 29 damaged. The SENIOR MEDICAL OFFICER from WING inspected the Camp Sanitation and cookhouses, etc. He suggested one or two improvements connected with the lay-out of the Airmen’s Cookhouse and the grease traps, but otherwise he found everything satisfactory. For the time being, as the battle is now on in the desert, all bathing parties and passes for the airmen have been stopped, but we are still managing to rest one or two of the pilots.
04/09/42 (Friday) GROUP CAPTAIN O'MALLEY, the A.H.Q.W.D. MEDICAL OFFICER, Inspected the camp this morning. He made some suggestions for combatting the menace of flies. On the whole the Camp does not suffer overmuch from flies. This evening the Squadron escorted the A.O.C.-in-C., AIR CHIEF MARSHAL SIR A. TEDDER from L.G. to BURG-AL-ARAB. The Squadron formation take-off was done in a dust storm, when visibility was very poor, but it was one of the best take-offs that they had done.
05/09/42 (Saturday) The COMMANDING OFFICER, SQUADRON LEADER J.H. WEDGWOOD, went to a "tea-party” given by the A.O.C., WESTERN DESERT, to meet WENDELL WILKIE, the AMERICAN Statesman, who is now in the Middle East. Meeting of the SERGEANTS' MESS held this evening to discuss some difficulties that have arisen with the rations. The MEDICAL OFFICER drew up an experimental diet sheet, and it is hoped this difficulty will be overcome. The Sergeant Pilots were the guests of the Officers' Mess this evening. The Adjutant, FLYING OFFICER V.R. SAIGOL, made an ACTING FLIGHT LIEUTENANT w.e.f. May. P/O. TURVEY posted to the Squadron.
06/09/42 (Sunday) The battle In the WESTERN DESERT seems to have died down temporarily with the enemy being pushed westwards. No encounters by the Squadron today during sorties. P/O. MENZIES, P/O. HARVEY and P/O. AYLOTT posted to the Squadron.
07/09/42 (Monday) During a sortie today, P/O.MENZIES, on his first operational trip, unaccountably spun at 17,000 feet. For some reason he couldn't get out of the spin, didn't bale out, and went slap in. The Squadron lately has had a run of bad luck. Let's hope this ends it. Poor Menzies seemed a good chap, he only joined the Squadron yesterday afternoon. The Squadron Officers were the guests this evening, of the No.1 S.A.A.F. Squadron Mess.
08/09/42 (Tuesday) The crashed aircraft in which P/O.MENZIES lost his life was located this morning in a most inaccessible part of the desert. A memorial service was held at the Squadron, with members of the Squadron in attendance. SQUADRON LEADER FORRESTER, WING CHAPLAIN, took the Service. The first party of men left on posting, following changes in the establishment caused by making the Squadron more mobile. The changes are going to make the work of running the Squadron much more difficult.
09/09/42 (Wednesday) The glad news received that the whole Squadron is to be given seven days leave starting on September 11th. A "skeleton staff" will have to be left behind to look after the aircraft. They will get their leave the week following. The change in the establishment of Squadrons recently brought into force has been changed yet once again. No private mail has been received for the Squadron for some days. This is being looked into.
10/09/42 (Thursday) L.A.C. McKIMM returned from BASE PERSONNEL STAFF OFFICE, where he had been working during the changes in the establishment, to say that the nominal rolls returned by the Squadron were perfectly in order. A conference of Adjutants held at WING to discuss the changes in the establishment. The "base parties" at HELWAN have now been disbanded. The Squadron Officers were the guests of No.1 S.A.A.F. this evening.
11/09/42 (Friday) The Squadron went on leave this morning for seven days. Actually the atmosphere in the desert has been rather tense, and the rest will do the pilots and ground crews good. FLYING OFFICER RAWES remained behind as Officer i/c, and PILOT OFFICER HARYEY and PILOT OFFICER TURVEY remained behind as emergency pilots. The majority of airmen went to Alexandria, and the Officers to Cairo.
12/09/42 (Saturday) The technical personnel remained behind to carry out inspections of all aircraft. As the Squadron was taken out of the line yesterday, this is a good opportunity, to service the aircraft. Two more Spitfire V’s arrived today.
13/09/42 (Sunday) Final inspections of the aircraft finished today. A skeleton staff of guards will be remaining behind to look after the aircraft. A bathing party held for airmen remaining on the Camp.
14/09/42 (Monday) FLIGHT LIEUTENANT WOOLGROVE took over the care of the Squadron from FLYING OFFICER RAWES, who went on leave this morning. P/O.TURVEY and P/O. HARVEY, who had remained behind as emergency pilots, went on leave today, and FLIGHT SERGEANTS NOVAK end SHAFER took their place.
15/09/42 (Tuesday) Signal received that L.A.C. BRETTER had died from pneumonia, following the injuries he suffered when an A.P. bomb exploded near him during the last air raid. BRETTER’S death is most unfortunate, because he was very good at his work and well-liked by everybody. Information also received that SERGEANT PILOT WATSON, who had been missing, believed killed, since July 17th, was a Prisoner Of War.
16/09/42 (Wednesday) Camp inspection carried out by FLIGHT LIEUTENANT WOOLGROVE. The mail situation has been rather difficult of late, as a lot of letters seem to be taking a very long time to reach us.
17/09/42 (Thursday) The Squadron returned from leave today, which had passed all too quickly and pleasantly. The advance party of Officers with the COMMANDING OFFICER arrived about 1630 hours. A little later the WING COMMANDER rang up the COMMANDING OFFICER, SQUADRON LEADER J.H.WEDGWOOD, and informed him that he had been awarded the DFC. This is a thoroughly well-deserved honour, because the COMMANDING OFFICER has led the Squadron on practically every operational trip in the desert, and he has done more than anyone to build up the reputation of 92 squadron in the desert. He has shot down nine enemy aircraft - no mean feat. This is the first "gong" the Squadron has won in the desert. May it be the herald of many more.
18/09/42 (Friday) A GREEK Squadron moved in to share our landing ground with us. They are going to fly HURRICANES. The LIEUTENANT-COLONEL in charge of the Ack-Ack guns defending the landing grounds here called to see the COMMANDING OFFICER to arrange where to site his guns. LIEUTENANT FAURE, attached from No.1 S.A.A.F. Squadron, returned to his Squadron today. He will be greatly missed by all.
19/09/42 (Saturday) The Squadron were on readiness again today. The GREEK Officers were the guests of the Mess this evening. PILOT OFFICER HILL and FLIGHT SERGEANT BLADES posted to the Squadron from No. 80 SQUADRON. There is still difficulty in obtaining the new type of latrine buckets from Stores. A film show given at WING for the airmen.
20/09/42 (Sunday) News received that PILOT OFFICER BRADLEY SMITH has been posted away, unfit, from the Squadron, but that he will be posted back to us when fit. PILOT OFFICER COOKE, who went on compassionate leave to RHODESIA on the 8th, has had to have it changed to a posting to enable him to reach RHODESIA, but it is hoped to re-post him back to the Squadron, The Squadron now hold 14 SPITFIRE VC's and 2 VB's. The weather is now getting much cooler in the desert. The Squadron did a brief sortie today, but saw nothing.
21/09/42 (Monday) On a patrol this evening eight SPITFIRES, led by SQUADRON LEADER WEDGWOOD, ran into fifty enemy aircraft and put up a magnificent show. They retained their formation and fought the enemy for over ten minutes, until the enemy broke away. The patrol then continued their way to EL ALAMEIN. Though no enemy aircraft were shot down, the Squadron put up a grand show, proving that eight SPITPIRES well handled, could hold their own with more than fifty Me 109F's and MACCHI 202’s. On the return of the Squadron, GROUP rang up immediately to congratulate them.
22/09/42 (Tuesday) A personal signal was sent from the A.O.C., AIR VICE MARSHAL CONINGHAM, to SQUADRON LEADER WEDGWOOD, congratulating him on his DFC. and on the great show put up yesterday. This evening for the first time In the WESTERN DESERT a complete SPITFIRE WING of 28 planes, led by SQUADRON LEADER WEDGWOOD, went out on patrol, but saw nothing. PILOT OFFICER L. SMITH went to No. 21 M.R.S. suffering from enteritis. This evening the Squadron Officers were the guests of No.1 S.A.A.F.
23/06/42 (Wednesday) Along with the new establishment designed to make the Squadron more mobile, we are now trying to get rid of as many E.P.I.P. tents as possible, and substituting bivouac tents for ridge tents, and ridge for E.P.I.P. The COMMANDING OFFICER and P/O. CHISHOLM went out on a sortie to try and find an E-Boat, but though they searched the coast they saw nothing. The R.C. Padre came along this afternoon to arrange new times for celebrating Mass.
24/09/42 (Thursday) Meeting of the P.S.I. Committee this evening. The funds are in a good position. The problem of dust here, which gets churned into deep ruts by lorries, makes all traffic very difficult. COLONEL SULLIVAN, of the UNITED STATES ARMY AIR FORCE, visited the camp this morning and stayed for lunch. A film show was given at WING for the airmen.
25/09/42 (Friday) A BALTIMORE aircraft unfortunately crashed on the other side of the landing ground this morning. The crew were killed. The DEFENCE OFFICER and the ADJUTANT went over to see the new Officer in charge of the INDIAN Troops guarding the landing ground to make sure that plans for the defence of the L.G. against possible parachute troops were mutually understood. A meeting of Airmen’s Messing Committee was held this evening.
26/09/42 (Saturday) The Squadron was ordered off as top cover to HURRICANES and went out to near DABA, and were attacked by Me 109’s. FLIGHT LIEUTENANT MORGAN shot one down and P/O. G.W. ROSE another, both confirmed. P/O. CARPENTER got a "probable” and FLIGHT SERGEANT BLADES a damaged. Unfortunately, WARRANT OFFICER KENWOOD was shot down behind the enemy lines, and P/O. TURVEY was also shot down, but successfully baled out, and has rejoined the Squadron. It is hoped that WARRANT OFFICER KENWOOD landed successfully. He will be sorely missed by the Squadron. He was a good pilot, and a grand fellow in every way. He had been put up for a commission.
27/09/42 (Sunday) The MESSING OFFICER inspected airmen's meals today. Rations continue to be very good, and with the extra messing through P.S.I., there are few complaints about food. P/O.HARVEY was sent to No.21 M.R.S. today suffering from food poisoning caught in ALEXANDRIA yesterday. P/O. CORNISH, back from WING, is with the Squadron to act as INTELLIGENCE OFFICER during the temporary indisposition of F/O.BROOKS.
28/09/42 (Monday) This afternoon F/Lt. MORGAN and P/O. CHISHOLM were scrambled to chase a Ju 88. While out they ran into 20 Me 109’s. A terrific dogfight followed. Both pilots fired, but the going was too hot to see results. The remainder of the Squadron had been scrambled shortly afterwards, and they ran into a bunch of Me 109’s. F/Lt. SAMOUELLE shot one down, and P/O. CARPENTER damaged another. Unfortunately, to date, the Army have only established two definite crashes. P/LT. SAMOUELLE’S, and the other where F/Lt. MORGAN and P/O. CHISHOLM were fighting, they are sharing. All the pilots returned safely.
29/09/42 (Tuesday) The C.O, away on 48. Yesterday’s aircraft so far definitely confirmed only one - Squadron score now 217½ destroyed - F/Lt. . SAMOUELLLE’S. P/O.HARVEY returned to the Squadron today. Visit of one of REAR AIR HEADQUARTERS, WESTERN DESERT, WELFARE OFFICERS, PADRE FORRESTER, of WING, is trying to get us some books for the Library. *
30/09/42 (Wednesday) Visit to the Squadron of a group of TURKISH OFFICERS, with GROUP CAPTAIN CARTER, of GROUP; and the WING COMMANDER. The TURKISH Officers were shown round the Maintenance Section and round the Equipment Stores, and then they went to the Dispersal Tent. There is a very hot spell on now in the desert, and the soft, powdery dust, which is more than a foot deep over wide areas of the camp, makes aircraft and M.T. serviceability very difficult. Our landing ground is one of the worst in this part of the desert. Some games have been bought out of P.S.I. for the Airmen's Canteen, and we are trying to get them a ping-pong table.
01/10/42 (Thursday) PILOT OFFICER GLENDINNING, R.A.A.F., and WARRANT OFFICER EDWARDS posted to the Squadron and arrived today for flying duties. FLYING OFFICER BRUCE, a former member of 92 Squadron, arrived today from HELIOPOLIS to see the Commanding Officer.
02/10/42 (Friday) LIEUTENANT RABIE and FLYING OFFICE HILL were scrambled suddenly this morning and were airborne in 1 min. 5 secs. for which Group and Wing congratulated them. They were vectored out on to a Ju 88. Eventually they found it, and they both fired and bits flew off the aircraft. LT. RABIE chased it out to sea and kept firing till he saw it crash in the sea. This is the first twin-engined bomber to be shot down by the Squadron this year. Squadron total now 218½.
03/10/42 (Saturday) FLIGHT LIEUTENANT MORGAN left this morning to spend three days up at the front near EL ALAMEIN with the ARMY. In his place CAPTAIN HUTCHISON, RIFLE BRIGADE, attached to DIVISIONAL HEADQUARTERS, is spending three days with the Squadron. FLYING OFFICER WADDY, DFC., posted to the Squadron from No.3 S.A.A.F. SQUADRON. Signal received late this evening that P/O. BRADLEY SMITH, who had been on sick leave in JERUSALEM, had been readmitted to hospital (43rd General).
04/10/42 (Sunday) CHURCH OF ENGLAND Service held in the Parachute Section this evening. At the moment the weather is dry end windy, with virulent sandstorms blowing every time there's a wind. But if rain should come, this loose sand will turn to slush. Still masses of files everywhere. The weather now much cooler, and not so many of these damn scorpions and centipedes and things around. We’re getting quite attached to this miserable patch of desert of ours.
05/10/42 (Monday) First day of rain this evening. Enough to lay the sand and dust. A little leaked through the tents. Things are very quiet nowadays and the Squadron for the last day or two have done very little flying.
06/10/42 (Tuesday) Still very quiet in the desert. Two of our pilots on patrol over the enemy lines reported that the recent heavy rains seem to have flooded their landing grounds. They met no fighter opposition and little ack-ack. We have been issued with our five blankets each for the coming winter, but our battle dress hasn't yet arrived.
07/10/42 (Wednesday) LIEUTENANT SMITH, of No.5 SAAF. SQUADRON, posted to the Squadron, and arrived today. The Squadron went out on patrol today and ran into two Me 109’s. F/Lt. SAMOUELLE destroyed one and P/O. CHISHOLM the other, both being confirmed. Squadron total now 220½ destroyed. CAPTAIN HUTCHESON returned to his Unit today. No. 146 SQUADRON (SPITFIRES) moved in today to share our landing ground. They are on the sight used by the GREEK SQUADRON.
08/10/42 (Thursday) PILOT OFFICER L. SMITH returned from sick leave to the Squadron. Four pilots led by P/O. CHISHOLM, made a recce flight over the enemy landing ground at DABA. They met no opposition, and the landing ground appeared to be bogged. A little more rain fell today. F/Lt. MORGAN returned to the Squadron from his four days spent at the front, during which he went out on patrol with Army units into No-Man’s-Land. He had a very exciting time and brought back several souvenirs.
09/10/42 (Friday) FLIGHT LIEUTENANT COCKER returned to the Squadron today. A very welcome return. He is not properly fit to fly yet. A very busy day in the air today. Almost every bomber and fighter aircraft in the desert was up, and the R.A.F. put up a terrible strafe on the enemy landing grounds. In the morning the COMMANDING OFFICER led the Squadron on a sortie near FUKA. Enemy aircraft were engaged, and S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD DFC., shot down 2 Me 109’s and F/Lt. SAMOUELLE got another. All our aircraft returned safely. Squadron total now 223½ destroyed. There was another sortie later. Unfortunately, P/O. HARVEY failed to return from this. In the evening there was a Wing sortie, led by WING COMMANDER LOVE. F/Lt. MORGAN led the Squadron. Enemy aircraft were met and F/Lt. MORGAN and F/Sgt. HEMPSTEAD between them got a probable, F/Lt. SAMOUELLE got a damaged, and P/O. HILL fired at and hit another. Altogether this was one of the heaviest days of air activity in the desert.
10/10/42 (Saturday) This evening the Squadron were detailed to do a "Rhubarb". Apparently, some confusion arose, as Group had given orders that there was to be no ground strafing, but these orders were not passed on to the Squadron. Ground targets behind enemy lines near FUKA were well attacked. Unfortunately, the Squadron lost F/O. HILL who was reported to have crashed in flames, and W/O. EDWARDS, who landed on the sea. W/O. EDWARDS had only been with the Squadron a few days, but he had the makings of a good pilot. F/O. HILL was a most experienced pilot, posted to us from No. 80 Squadron, and he was a most attractive personality. He will be very sorely missed.
11/10/42 (Sunday) We are getting SPITFIRE VB's with MERLIN 46 engines to replace our VC’s that have been lost. A quiet day today on the whole. Yesterday was the Squadron's third birthday. The airmen had a sing-song and the band was in attendance at the airmen's Canteen. Unfortunately, two very heavy days' work and the loss of three pilots in the last two days rather dampened the fun.
12/10/42 (Monday) PILOT OFFICER SLY, R.A.A.F., posted to the Squadron today. The Squadron has been rested from Ops. for a week to do some training and to get the serviceability up to scratch. SERGEANT MONAGHAN, i/c Ground Gunners, is away on a fortnight’s course and F/Lt. WOOLGROVE, MEDICAL OFFICER, is away on week's course. The Squadron football team beat 601 SQUADRON by 1 — 0.
13/10/42 (Tuesday) Training was carried out in the Flights today, with the pilots learning to re-load and re-fuel their aircraft. P/O. BAKER was posted to the Squadron today from No. 238 SQUADRON. LIEUTENANT RABIE was sent sick to No. 21 M.R.S. for observation.
14/10/42 (Wednesday) This morning the AIR OFFICER COMMANDING, WESTERN DESERT, AIR VICE-MARSHAL CONINGHAM, visited the Squadron. After addressing the Airman, the A.O.C. went to the Pilots' Mess, where he met all the pilots and officers. He talked to them for some minutes about the shape or things to come and then had lunch in the Mess. There is unfortunately an outbreak of tonsilitis in the Squadron, and the airmen are gargling twice a day.
15/10/42 (Thursday) LT. RABIE has been admitted to S.A. Hospital, HELMIEH. Owing to the increase of tonsilitis in the Squadron, airmen have been warned to sit out in the open after dark instead of crowding into the Canteen.
16/10/42 (Friday) In the afternoon one of the worst sandstorms ever sprang up. There was a strong, high wind of great force, and it blew the sand round in an orange, opaque mass. All sense of direction or visibility was lost. Suddenly, almost as soon as the sandstorm was over, it began to rain heavily. Every tent was soaked, with great pools of water lying on the clayey dust. It left the place an absolute quagmire. The SPITFIRES are serviceable, but it would be impossible to take them up in the air.
17/10/42 (Saturday) This evening the COMMANDING OFFICER, S/Ldr. J.H. WEDGWOOD, DFC, went to a party given at ADVANCED AIR HEADQUARTERS, WESTERN DESERT, by AIR VICE-MARSHAL CONINGHAM in honour of AIR CHIEF MARSHAL SIR ARTHUR TEDDER, and MARSHAL OF THE AIR FORCE LORD TRENCHARD, who is visiting the WESTERN DESERT. Today the camp was simply an infinite series of wide pools of water stretching across a flat of dark brown, sodden sand. The tents, the clothes, the furniture, the aircraft, everything was saturated. Fortunately the rain only came in gusts today, and in between these was a strong wind which at least dried blankets and some of the clothes.
18/10/42 (Sunday) AIR CHIEF MARSHAL SIR ARTHUR TEDDER visited the Squadron for a brief moment this morning. FLYING OFFICER SCUDDAY, of No. 4 S.A.A.F. SQUADRON, posted to us today. Also SERGEANT PILOT PATTERSON from No. 238 SQUADRON. F/Sgt., PILOT SHAFER left to Join No. 59 R.S.U.
19/10/42 (Monday) The Squadron were on a sortie this morning and on return to base there was an unfortunate collision between a Spitfire of No. 145 SQUADRON, and one of ours. The tail unit of our Spitfire was cut right off and it spun right in, and crashed between the tents. FLIGHT SERGEANT HEMPSTEAD, the pilot, was killed instantly. This accident has robbed the Squadron of an experienced, cool, highly competent pilot and a fine, level-headed, capable man, who was due, very shortly, to get his commission. F/Sgt. HEMPSTEAD was buried this afternoon at the SOUTH AFRICAN WAR CEMETERY at Kilo 151. The Padre of No. 244 WING officiating. P/O. JOERNS was posted to the Squadron from No. 4 S.A.A.F. SQUADRON. F/O. BROOKS returned to the Squadron today.
20/10/42 (Tuesday) F/O. BROOKS left the Squadron today on posting out of the desert. He had been with the Squadron as Intelligence Officer for some months, and he will be much missed. P/O. AYLOTT was also posted today from the Squadron to R.A.F. Station, HELIOPOLIS. No. 80 SQUADRON are now back in the desert, and some of their members visited the Pilots’ Mess tonight. From midnight tonight Cairo and Alexandria are out of bounds. F/Lt. WOOLGROVE returned from his course today.
21/10/42 (Wednesday) FLYING OFFICER BRUCE posted to the Squadron today. The COMMANDING OFFICER announced to the officers and pilots certain preliminaries caused by news of the impending battle. A very heavy day’s bombing was observed overhead. The recent heavy rain has laid all the dust and the autumnal weather in the desert is now delightful. Two more SPITFIRES collected today, making a total of 16.
22/10/42 (Thursday) On a sortie today S/Ldr. J.H. WEDGWOOD, DFC., shot down a Me 109 and F/O.WADDY, DFC., shot down another. The C.O.’s total bag is now 12. SERGEANT PILOT SAILS posted to the Squadron today, making 25 Pilots excluding the C.O. Postings have been so very rapid in the last few days that there may be some difficulty in working up a team spirit. That is always the case when a rush of new pilots comes to a Squadron. There was a film show at Wing this evening. The COMMANDING OFFICER went to GROUP this evening, the A.O.C. and the Deputy A.O.C. in C were present. A brief history of the Squadron was telephoned to Group today, apparently at the request of Air Ministry.
23/10/42 (Friday) This evening at 10 o'clock by the light of a brilliant full moon a full scale attack was launched against the enemy positions at EL ALAMEIN. There had been two or three days of intensive daylight bombing with fighter escort by the Air Force. The Squadron did two sorties in four's only. Both were uneventful.
24/10/42 (Saturday) The battle in the Northern Sector of the AL ALAMEIN front is progressing favourably, where a definite break through has been made. The Squadron did more sorties in fours, but without incident, in spite of the continuous and heavy day bombing that is going on. The Squadron now has 20 aircraft. Meeting of the P.S.I. Committee held this evening.
25/10/42 (Sunday) On a sortie today over the Central Sector F/Lt. MORGAN was leading a patrol of four aircraft when two Me 109’s were engaged. F/Lt. MORGAN shot one down, and LT. HEWITSON chased the other and got in a burst, but was unable to see the effect of his shots. The push in the NORTHERN SECTOR is continuing well. Meetings of airmen's messing committee held this evening.
26/10/42 (Monday) The Squadron again doing patrols in fours. On a patrol F/O.WADDY, DFC. and P/O. L. SMITH sighted two Me 109’s and attacked, F/O.WADDY destroying one of them, F/O.WADDY’S own score is now 14½ confirmed destroyed. This makes him the second highest fighter pilot amongst Australians. Nine surplus Ground Gunners posted away from us today.
27/10/42 (Tuesday) Another day of sorties in fours. This morning P/O. CHISHOLM and F/O. GLENDINNING were on patrol between DABA and ALAMEIN at about 17,000 feet, when two Me 109’s were sighted. Both Me. 109’s were destroyed, each pilot claiming one destroyed. P/O. CHISHOLM'S own total now 7 destroyed. This evening the WING COMMANDER led a dusk patrol from our L.G. to try and catch a Stuka Party, which usually bomb our lines at dusk. No Stuka's were seen. The patrol included the three C.O.'s of the Wing. On landing the C.O. of 601 Squadron crashed his aircraft, but was unhurt, and P/O. CHISHOLM landed on one wheel and damaged his mainplane. SERGEANT PILOT THOMPSON rejoined the Squadron today.
28/10/42 (Wednesday) The German and Italian Air Force seen to have stiffened their resistance, and apparently they have brought squadrons over from SICILY. Today was a very unlucky day for 92. In the morning, whilst on a sortie in fours, P/Sgt. BLADES was shot up and belly-landed his aircraft this side our lines. He was unhurt, and later returned to the Squadron. On the next sortie of fours, they again encountered superior numbers of enemy aircraft, F/Sgt. NOVAK being shot up and forced landed this side our lines. He was unhurt. F/Lt. COCKER failed to return. During these sorties Sgt. PATTERSON damaged a Me 109 and F/O. BUCKLEY another.
29/10/42 (Thursday) The WING went out at two-squadron strength this morning, led by WING COMMANDER LOVE, S/Ldr. J.H. WEDGWOOD, DFC., flying as No. 2. At about 15,000 feet near ALAMEIN they ran into Stukas escorted by Me 109's. S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD shot down a Me 109, making his total 13. P/O. WADDY, DFC. also got a 109 confirmed. The Squadron total is now 231½. F/Lt. SAMOUELLE got a damaged later in the day. The big battle is still going on, with plenty of shell fire on both sides. In the Northern Sector the Army are definitely establishing themselves. The R.A.F. is giving the Army tremendous bomber and fighter support.
30/10/42 (Friday) AIR CHIEF MARSHAL SIR ARTHUR TEDDER paid a brief visit to the Squadron in the afternoon. The A.O.C-in-C. landed near the dispersal tent in his FRISELER STORCH, and then talked to the pilots outside the tent. He seamed well pleased with the battle now going on, though he thought progress would be slow. He hoped the Squadron would continue to engage the enemy in the air as vigorously as ever.
31/10/42 (Saturday) The "damaged" which F/Lt. SAMOUELLE got two days ago has been confirmed destroyed. The Squadron total confirmed destroyed is 233½. F/Lt. SAMOUELLE'S own score is 6. Day liberty runs have been started again into ALEXANDRIA for the pilots. The clocks were put back one hour this evening. The Camp is now much cleaner as far as the latrines and kitchens go, but there is still a fair amount of litter left about.
01/11/42 (Sunday) A quieter day in the air today, with slightly fewer bomber sorties made over the front. The squadron were on patrol over the front when they became separated during an attack by 109’s. P/O. SLY was shot at and had to belly-land at another L.G. A party was held at Wing to celebrate their 100th victim since the Wing became operational this summer. The 100th victim was shot down by 92 SQUADRON. The weather seems to have become much more autumnal today.
02/11/42 (Monday) This morning the 8th ARMY broke through the enemy defences around the ALAMEIN SECTOR and fighting is now in progress South of DABA. On a patrol this morning north of ALAMEIN the squadron saw two Me 109’s just below them. P/O. CARPENTER dived down and fired at one. It burst into flames and the pilot baled out. This is P/O. CARPENER’S first victory, and he is to be heartily congratulated. On a patrol later in the day the Squadron intercepted some Me 109's that were trying to attack some HURRICANES. S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD led his Section against a formation of 109's and he himself obtained a "probable." F/Lt. SAMOUELLE led his Section against another formation and destroyed a Me 109, making his total score 6 destroyed. The Squadron's total score is 235½.
03/11/42 (Tuesday) The enemy forces seem to be on the retreat today. Aircraft reported that the road between DABA and FUKA was blocked with vehicles moving westwards. The Squadron did three sorties and one patrol of four, but all without incident.
04/11/42 (Wednesday) Provisional notice given that the Squadron would be moving forward shortly. Told to be at four hours stand-by notice. The Squadron went out on patrol today and confirmed that the enemy were definitely on the retreat. Very little enemy opposition was encountered.
05/11/42 (Thursday) The Advance Party warned at dawn to leave at two hours notice. About 0800 hours the convoy of the Advance party lined up on the road. F/Lt. MORGAN was convoy-leader with F/O.WADDY, DFC., as convoy navigator, and F/Lt. SAIGOL (Adjutant), P/O. BOLLAND, W/O. SANDERSON and ‘B’ FLIGHT. They halted first at BURG-EL-ARAB and then, with WING, and the other SPITFIRE SQUADRONS, continued on the way to L.G. 21. The battle had evidently only recently passed this way, as lorries of captured prisoners were encountered, there were still burnt-out GERMAN tanks along the track, and signs everywhere that the enemy had retreated very hurriedly. At night the party encamped in the desert near ALAMEIN.
06/11/42 (Friday) The Advance Party reached L.G.21 near DABA today. The L.G. had Me 109’s on it in various places including three Me 109’s, in almost perfect condition, dated September of this year. The L.G. is rather a good way off the road and rather isolated. It was noticed that the enemy dispersal of aircraft was extremely good. They had evidently only left this L.G. a bare 24 hours before the party arrived.
07/11/42 (Saturday) The Squadron pilots, led by S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD, DFC., arrived at dawn on L.G.21, whilst the MAIN PARTY had orders to travel to SIDI HANEISH (L.G.13). Pilots went off on patrol and saw that the enemy were in full retreat, apparently having reached the "wire” on the EGYPTIAN PRONTIER. LT.SMITH on leaving L.G.173 this morning "pranged” his aircraft through inexperience with overload tanks.
08/11/42 (Sunday) The ADJUTANT, F/Lt. SAIGOL, went ahead this morning and caught up with the MAIN PARTY, which rested for a time at L.G.14 near MAARTEN BAGUSH, and then went on to SIDI HANE1SH (L.G.30). Rations are a difficulty and water is at an absolute premium.
09/11/42 (Monday) Squadron went out on patrol near SIDI BARRANI. An enemy column of traffic was on the road and the Squadron dived down and strafed it sending trucks up in flames and overturning lorries. Me 109’s which were escorting the column attacked the Squadron and F/Sgt. BLADES was shot down, and his machine was seen to hit the ground and burst into flames. F/Lt. SAMOUELLE shot at a 109 and saw strikes. LT. HEWITSON was fired at by ack-ack and his airscrew was hit, but he got back safely. The ADVANCE PARTY under F/O. WADDY and P/O. CHISHOLM are on their way to MESHEFA (L.G.76). They encamped for the night at the bottom of the road near the rest of the Squadron. The GERMANS have now retreated to SOLLUM and the district round SIDI BARRANI.
10/11/42 (Tuesday) It is now clear that a very considerable victory has been won and the AXIS Forces cleared right out of EGYPT. His main forces are now said to have retreated almost to TOBRUK. The rest at SIDI HANESH is doing the Squadron transport "B” PARTY a world of good. There is very little enemy opposition in the air.
11/11/42 (Wednesday) The enemy retreat continues. Water shortage is acute, but we were fortunate to obtain 350 gallons at FUKA, this will have to last the MAIN PARTY of 200-odd men a matter of three or more days. Rations are also somewhat difficult to obtain, but fortunately supplies of M.T. petrol, aviation petrol and ammunition are plentiful. This continual movement, rising in darkness, travelling at first light is quite a strain, but the airmen are doing splendidly.
12/11/42 (Thursday) The Squadron ADVANCE PARTY had left for L.G.55 a day or two ago, but enormous convoys on the roads cut their speed until they only travelled about six miles in four hours. The MAIN PARTY had better luck and raced past MERSA MATRUH, rejoined the WING at the Desert Route, following the pipe line, and reached MESHEFA only a few hours after the ADVANCE PARTY. The MAIN PARTY have to continue to GAMBUT. Water and rations are still acute and tea is rationed to one cup three times a day. Biscuits instead of bread and no "loot” of any description.
13/11/42 (Friday) The Squadron MAIN PARTY crossed the wire marking the boundary between LIBYA and EGYPT today. The wayside was supposed to be strewn with minefields so the lorries kept very strictly to the track. We same to SIDI AZIZ. All the WING SQUADRONS and WING HEADQUARTERS travelling together, and late in the day reached GAMBUT WEST, and about an hour later were joined by the COMMANDING OFFICER and pilots.
14/11/42 (Saturday) Both parties of the Squadron together for the day at GAMBUT, which is quite a nice spot. P/O. NOMIS, an AMERICAN pilot, joined the Squadron a few days ago. There are several wells in the district though the water is muddy. Unfortunately supplies of rations and M.T. petrol have not caught up with us yet. The enemy are said to be well on the way to BENGHASI. Certainly no GERMAN aircraft have been seen by the Squadron while on patrol. The lorries, which so far have stood the strain of the desert track well, are now being serviced in preparation for the journeying into TRIPOLI.
15/11/42 (Sunday) The ADVANCE PARTY moved off this morning from GAMBUT WEST for MARTUBA. The weather which had been hot and sunny broke today and became cold with high wind and some rain.
16/11/42 (Monday) The pilots took off for MARTUBA L.G., but they were recalled as heavy rain had made the ground unserviceable. Rained heavily at GAMBUT WEST this morning. No alcoho1 of any sort in the bar. A meeting of the P.S.I. this afternoon to discuss the Christmas dinner. In addition to 9d. per man for the day, and a further grant of £20, P.S.I. are giving about £60.
17/11/42 (Tuesday) No news of when we are likely to move forward. The enemy forces are said to be down by EL AGHEILA, where they were in January of this year. A violent thunderstorm burst over the escarpment this evening, with torrents of rain. The weather is now cold at night and early day, with a warm spell in the late morning and afternoon. P/O. BRUCE returned from Hospital yesterday.
18/11/42 (Wednesday) The weather now cold with a strong wind and frequent rain. The Squadron pilots seem to be marking time here at GAMBIT. The ADVANCE PARTY is said to be at MARTUBA. F/O. DUKE, DFC., an ex-Squadron pilot when in U.K. was today posted to the Squadron.
19/11/42 (Thursday) F/O.WADDY, D.F.C., R.A.A.F., was posted away from the Squadron today and back to AUSTRALIA, on completing a "meritorious operational tour," with his score as 15½ confirmed destroyed. Although F/O.WADDY had got most of his big score before joining the Squadron, he soon made a home and a reputation for himself here. He thoroughly deserves the honour of being repatriated, and he will be much missed. Some of the Officers paid a visit to the much-battered TOBRUK today. A little operational flying was done this morning, but there were no glimpses of the enemy.
20/11/42 (Friday) No.1 S.A.A.F. SQUADRON have Joined 244 WING as a Spitfire Squadron in place of No. 73 SQUADRON, HURRICANE night fighters. We are still far away from the battle, and there is no sign yet of the SPITPIRES becoming operational.
21/11/42 (Saturday) As far as we are concerned there is a curious lull in the battle. There are some 80 SPITFIRES parked on the L.G. doing nothing. Slight troubles again over the water. The wells are very Muddy. News received today that we shall probably be moving on to M'SUS.
22/11/42 (Sunday) The latest news is that we are shortly moving on to MSUS, using the desert track from TMEMI. Except for sugar, rations and water are now plentiful, and we had fresh meat for dinner this evening for the first tine since we advanced.
23/11/42 (Monday) WING COMMANDER DARWIN, D.F.C. and Bar, took over Commend of No. 244 WING. Squadron Leader HARPER posted to the Squadron as supernumerary. Rations, water and M.T. patrol collected for movement of Squadron MAIN PARTY to M'SUS. Squadron ADVANCE PARTY arrived at M'SUS today from MARTUBA, with P/O. BOLLAND and LT.SINCLAIR.
24/11/42 (Tuesday) The pilots, under S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD, D.F.C., left GAMBUT WEST for M’SUS this morning. The MAIN PARTY then left, went down the escarpment and took the road for EL ADAM. Camp was pitched for the night East of GAZALA.
25/11/42 (Wednesday) The MAIN PARTY moved off at 5 this morning, travelling by the light of the moon, reached TMEMI by 0730, and there struck the desert track for MEKELI. The track, beyond one or two patches of wet sand, was not too bad, and MEKELI FORT was reached about 1500 hours. Then the odyssey of the convoy began. The convoy missed the desert track leading direct to M'SUS, and we wandered too far north-west. There was very boggy marshland in which the lorries with the trailers were bogged. And getting then out and over some very difficult wadis was a very difficult job. Camp was pitched for the night Just beyond MEKELI FORT.
26/11/42 (Thursday) The MAIN PARTY continued when the desert tracks were easily visible — about 0645 hours, and at about 1000 a deep wadi on the edge of an escarpment seemed to make further progress somewhat of a puzzle. However, with the able assistance of P/O. ALLEN, M.T. Officer, and F/O. RAWES, ENGINEER OFFICER, the convoy was taken over the wadi and round the escarpment. It was then clear that we were too far north and pretty well lost. Although LIBYA was supposed to be filled with soldiers and tanks and aircraft, we had travelled without seeing anybody but a few camel drivers. We eventually made for CHARRUBA, and then hit the M’SUS track from there due south.
27/11/42 (Friday) Off again at first light. The M'SUS track was flat and in many places as smooth and level as a first-class road. The convoy finally reached M’SUS at about 0930. The Squadron is now re-united, and both parties have made the long Journey from AMRIYA to M’SUS without losing a single vehicle, in spite of doing hundreds of miles over the desert. The Squadron has done two sweeps in the last two days, but without incident. Various modifications are being made to the SPITFIRES with a view to lightening the load.
28/11/42 (Saturday) Camp established at M’SUS. Water is available from 3 miles away, situated fortunately not too far away. The COMMANDING OFFICER, S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD, D.F.C., addressed the pilots, and later the airmen of the Squadron.
29/11/42 (Sunday) Ten pilots of "A" Flight under F/Lt. SAMOUELLE, went to ANTELAT for the night in case they were needed. P/O. McMAHON posted to the Squadron from No. 80 SQUADRON. SERGEANT-PILOT THOMPSON and FLIGHT-SERGEANT CLAPSON posted from the Squadron to No. 59 R.S.U. Both pilots have been with the Squadron for nearly a year. They are both much liked and they will be greatly missed. News received that W/O. KENWOOD, now commissioned, and missing since September, was a Prisoner-Of-War.
30/11/42 (Monday) News received that the WING ADVANCE PARTIES were to proceed tomorrow to HASSIET. The pilots of "A" FLIGHT are still operating from ANTELAT, and the Squadron MAIN PARTY will collect the necessary lorries from them. Rations to be obtained from 233 WING.
MSUS
01/12/43 (Tuesday) The pilots of "A" Flight who had been at Antelat returned today. "A" Party left for Hassiet which is about 50 miles from the El Agheila position. 7 Days rations were received today including bully beef, biscuits, M & V, dried fruit, sugar, tea and milk and if the water situation were more satisfactory life could be quite comfortable. S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD’S farewell party held this evening in his trailer.
02/12/43 COMMANDING OFFICER J.M. MORGAN (Wednesday)
S/Ldr. Wedgwood DFC, officially relinquished his command of the Squadron today. The entire squadron feels his departure as a personal loss. He took command of this squadron at Digby in January, brought it overseas, and led it with conspicuous gallantry in battle in the desert. His personal score was 13 destroyed and during 4 months of fighting under his leadership the squadron shot down 42 confirmed destroyed. He was an extraordinarily able leader in the air and his "first 12” were probably more efficient than any other 12 this Unit ever had even in its palmiest days. The A.O.C.W.D. had personally recommended his return to U.K. after a particularly meritorious tour of duty and we hope that this, together with his promotion to Wing Commander will not be long withheld, and we wish him every success for the future. The new C.O. is F/Lt. J.M. MORGAN formerly Flight Commander of “B” Flight whose own score is 6 confirmed and we wish him every success for the future. P/O. (Acting F/Lt.) CHISHOLM takes over command of "B" Flight.
03/12/43 (Thursday) “B" Parties of the Wing left for El Hassiet. Desert track in fairly good condition and the party camped for the night near Agedabia . Pilots escorted a Tac. R machine and on landing A/F/Lt. CHISHOLM broke an oleo leg and was fortunate in not being hurt.
EL HASSIET
04/12/42 (Friday) Squadron established at El Hassiet today. The caap is a wilderness and the area around heavily mined. Squadron escorted a Tac R. machine but apart from meeting considerable A.A. fire no incident was reported.
05/12/42 (Saturday) Squadron patrol this afternoon but no incident. German positions, about 60 miles away and plans drawn up by Colonel Bouillon, Fighting French to cover area in case of paratrooper attacks.
06/12/42 (Sunday) F/O. JOWSEY, F/Sgt. PROBERT and Sgt. McNAMARA posted to this Unit today from 33 Sqdn. Sgt. Tattum and F/Sgt. Quartermain posted away.
07/12/42 (Monday) During a patrol this afternoon over El Agheila the squadron ran into some 109’s and P/O. JOERNS was shot down but baled out successfully. LT. SMITH SAAF, has not yet returned and F/O. BRUCE and LT. SINCLAIR, SAAF landed at Agedabia. S/L MORGAN got a damaged which may be confirmed and two other aircraft were seen burning on the ground.
08/12/42 (Tuesday) LT. SMITH returned safely today. “A” Party moved off today to a forward LG near Agedabia road. The squadron did a patrol this afternoon and saw some 109's but did not make contact. P/O. BRICKHILL and F/Sgt BURMAN posted to us today. The A.O.C. told the C.O. that this Wing (244) would be one of the three fighter wings going forward to Tripoli.
09/12/42 (Wednesday) "A" Party moved on to El Nogra L.G. about 18 miles from El Agheila, where the German line begins. Weather and rations are good but there is a shortage of M.T. aviation fuel and water. Squadron did a patrol, encountered A. A. fire but no enemy aircraft.
10/12/42 (Thursday) The enemy retreating from El Agheila - squadron did a patrol as far up as Marble Arch but nothing to report except A.A. fire.
11/12/42 (Friday) Squadron patrol over Marble Arch this afternoon - heavy and accurate A.A. fire encountered which broke a wheel off P/O. JOERNS’ aircraft which overturned on landing but he was unhurt. LT. RABIE and LT. SINCLAIR sent away on 7 days leave prior to their papers coming through aa O.T.E. They will be greatly missed and we wish them good luck in the future.
EL NOGRA
12/12/42 (Saturday) Bad weather made L.G. unserviceable today. Airmen's Hess meeting held this afternoon to discuss shortage of rations etc, due to transport difficulties and fewness of ports.
13/12/42 (Sunday) F/Sgt. NOCAK posted back to Squadron today. P/O. L.R.SMITH went to Gazala on 10 days detachment to the "pilots pool" there.
14/12/42 (Monday) Arrangements made with Wing that the "Desert Lily” (Heinkel 111) used by Group for bringing beer should also include squadron. Squadron escorted 2 Tac R. aircraft over Marble Arch where heavy and accurate A.A fire was encountered but no enemy aircraft which seem to be few and far between these days.
15/12/42 (Tuesday) Heavy rain today made LG still unserviceable. Both pilots and airmen have some cause to grumble over the inadequacy of the food. S/Ldr. COTTON of P. Staff visited S/Ldr. MORGAN today.
16/12/42 (Wednesday) Patrol over the forward troops 10 miles west of Marble Arch today. No enemy aircraft seen but plenty of activity on the ground. New Zealand troops have cut the road near Marble Arch cutting off some of the enemy. F/O. GLENDINNING RAAF, posted as a Flight Commander to 450(RAAF) Squadron today.
17/12/42 (Thursday) Patrol over the Mediterranean between Benghasi and Marble Arch today to look for a dinghy with aircrew aboard. It was found. W/C DARWEN addresses the pilots on tactics this afternoon. F/Sgt. NOVAK detached to 59 RSU prior to posting. P/O. JOERNS returned from Medical Board today. He is to be posted to the U.K.
18/12/42 (Friday) A bad smash occurred this morning when P/O. TURVEY, taking. off on a scramble crashed into a badly dispersed aircraft of 601 Squadron. He is suffering from severe shock but no bones broken. “A” Party left the LG this afternoon to go on to the Marble Arch area.
19/12/42 (Saturday) P/O. JOERNS left today. No flying. The L.G. is very difficult for Spits to take off and land but the surrounding country sports rolling dunes, wild birds of about six different varieties and wild geese on a nearby lake.
20/12/42 (Sunday) No Flying today. Some Officers went shooting near the lake and S/L. MORGAN shot a plover, F/L. SAMOUELLE a quail. F/Sgt. OTT reported for duty today. P/O. L.R. SMITH went into hospital from Gazala.
EL MERDUNA
21/12/42 (Monday) “B” Party left for El Merduna L.G, - past Marble Arch and the pilots joined them there in the evening. Whole area here left heavily mined by the Germans.
22/12/42 (Tuesday) No flying today. Air Commodore Broadhurst, DSO, DFC, AFC, SASO W.D. spoke to the pilots today.
23/12/42 (Wednesday) Meeting held in S/L MORGAN’S trailer to discuss Christmas arrangements. Three EPIP tents and two ridge tents are being erected to seat all the airmen at one sitting. Christmas fare will consist of tomato soup, turkey, pork with apple sauce, sausage stuffing, Christmas pudding, fruit and nuts, beer and rum and cigarettes. Three mines went off when lorries ran over them today.
24/12/42 (Thursday) Sad news received today that S/Ldr. J.H. WEDGWOOD, DFC had been killed when the Halifax aircraft in which he was a passenger, crashed in Malta on its way to U.K. P/O. Turvey returned to the unit today from hospital.
25/12/42 (Friday) Airmen’s tents decorated with sprigs of camel thorn and bunches of desert flowers. Officers and senior NCO’s waited on the airmen. In the evening a sing-song was held at which the Commanding Officer and Officers were present. There was a generous supply of beer and the day was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.
26/12/42 (Saturday) “A” Party left this morning for a rendezvous past Nofilia L.G. and then to continue on their way to the new L.G., which is about 20 miles in the desert South East of Sultan. Another mine went up this morning, once again no-one was injured and the lorry was not harmed. Since staying in the district, which is heavily sprinkled with mines we have lost only one lorry, which hit a mine on the road near Marble Arch. No flying today.
27/12/42 (Sunday) Cold blustering weather which turned into a fine calm in the afternoon. Practice flying carried out all day. Some pork left over from Christmas was purchased from Wing and three welfare boxes were received from the Association of the Ladies of Alexandria. The boxes contained Christmas cakes, handkerchiefs, biscuits, dates, chocolates, Turkish Delight and tins of sweets. This gift to all the squadrons of the advanced Air Force was a most generous and welcomed gift.
28/12/42 (Monday) F/O. CARPENTER left the unit today to go to a hospital in Cairo. There is some reason to believe that he may not come back. "CHIPS" CARPENTER will be very much missed. He has been with this Squadron for 18 months, and he was an experienced and capable pilot and very much liked in the Squadron. Should he not return to the Squadron we wish him all the very best for the future. Practice flying again to-day.
29/12/42 (Tuesday) No flying to-day. A football match was played between “A” flight and S.H.Q. ending in a draw 1-all. The Bomb Line is now from Buerat running S.E. and our forward armoured cars are said to be in the Misurata area.
30/12/42 (Wednesday) No flying carried out all day due to aerodrome unserviceability. In the afternoon orders were received from Wing for the Squadron to prepare to move at first light to occupy a more forward L.G. at Alem El Chel. The “A” parties immediately made ready for an early start. F/O. TURVEY was granted seven days sick leave and is leaving for Cairo by air transport tomorrow.
31/12/42 (Thursday) F/Lt. SAIGOL left the Squadron this morning on posting to 22 P.T.C., We are all very sorry to see him go as he has been a regular Adjt. and an extremely good campaigner. His health however has been seriously effected by the desert condition and he has been recommended for a change. At 0945 hours the Squadron aircraft took off and set course for the new base at Chel, arriving at 1030 hrs without incident. The ground party left soon after taking the desert track got within 5 miles of Chel before night fall, where they camped. No operational flying carried out and only a few local training flights.
IN THE FIELD TRIPOLITANIA
01/01/43 (Friday) With no drink and obliged to sleep in the open air “B” party could hardly celebrate the advent of the New Year in the usual uproarious style. They arrived at CHEL L.G. at 1100 hours looking rather cold! F/O. SCUDDAY was sent to hospital at BENGHAZI after a week of rather indifferent health. During 1942 the Squadron upheld its fine tradition of the past doing stout work throughout from ALAMEIN to the present line. May these traditions continue to be upheld during 1943. Let us hope too that we may pass 1943 in slightly more congenial countryside.
02/01/43 (Saturday) WING COMMANDER DARWIN intends to operate two squadrons together in future and for the practice No. 92 SQUADRON flew with No. 1 SAAF in the SIRTE area while four pilots of No. 145 SQUADRON “played 109’s” It was a chance to practice stricter R/T procedure and formation flying at higher speeds than usual. WING COMMANDER DARWIN led a Gazelle shooting expedition of the staff car and jeep, which bagged four without loss. Two went to the airmen.
03/01/43 (Sunday) “A” Party was ordered to move off to a new L.G. just South of TAMET. The L.G has only just been started and the party spent the night on the P. 40 L.G. Five ingenious and hardworking pilots produced a fireplace, which is a welcome addition to the Officer’s Mess. During the course of these operations F/O. SLY suffered burns on the face.
04/01/43 (Monday) A severe sandstorm blew all day. Flying was impossible and most of the tents were flattened – the whole prospect being cold and cheerless. “A” party moved to their new L.G. where there has been considerable enemy air activity.
05/01/43 (Tuesday) The sand continues to blow night and day. F/O. BRUCE and Lt. SMITH managed to get away in the morning to collect replacements from AGEDABIA. Three times today “A” Party (at HAMRAT) were bombed by fighter-bombers. No casualties among our own men, though the NEW ZEALANDERS building the L.G. suffered several. The MEDICAL OFFICER, F/Lt. WOOLGROVE, bagged two gazelle which fed the whole of “A” Party.
06/01/43 (Wednesday) The wind died down last night and the airmen had a hard day cleaning the aircraft and getting the cannons serviceable. The SPITFIRE for all its merits does not take well to sandstorms. “A” Party was bombed again today, a stick straddling the cookhouse trailer – again fortunately no casualties.
07/01/43 (Thursday) For the first time since ALAMEIN the Squadron met Me 109’s in large numbers who were willing to stay and fight, even though they were far from home. These are certainly not the demoralised pilots who moved out of DABA in November. The Squadron was ordered to move forward to HAMRAT to do Readiness. The L.G. was bombed three times during the course of the day by these elusive customers, the 109 fighter-bombers. On each occasion the Squadron had aircraft in the air. An engagement took place about lunch time in which the COMMANDING OFFICER, S/Ldr. J.M. MORGAN, shot down a 109 into the sea and F/O. NOMIS destroyed another. F/Sgt. BROMHALL and Sgt. PATERSON were shot down, though the latter joined the Caterpillar Club and is safe. No news of F/Sgt. BROMHALL. Had the cannons done better our score might have been higher.
08/01/43 (Friday) Again today the Squadron flew to HAMRAT to do Readiness and Stand-by. The 109 bombers did not succeed in reaching the aerodrome throughout the day. Twice the Squadron engaged Me 109’s and MACCHI 202’s in force. In the morning F/Lt. CHISHOLM, F/Sgt. SAILS and F/O. DUKE, DFC. destroyed 202’s with two probables being claimed. In the evening F/O NOMIS shot a Me 109 down into the sea after a tough fight with several opponents. Unfortunately GEOFF ROSE has failed to return. The Army report seeing four Spitfires flying along when one turned back and took on eight Me 109’s for a quarter of an hour before spinning in. This sounds like Geoff, for his courage, skill and keenness were exemplary. He was a goodhearted fellow and will be missed by everyone. A cinema show at Wing this evening gave the airmen one of their rare and hard-earned outings.
09/01/43 (Saturday) At 1000 hours “B” party moved forward to HAMRAT where “A” Party are established, using the desert track to avoid mines. The stretch of desert in this area is smooth and easy on our hardworking M.T. The new L.G. is not complete as yet and is rather stony. So thoroughly has the enemy mined and ploughed up the aerodromes along the coast, that the Air Force has been obliged to make a set of new L.G’s down “in the blue.” The water-bowser has broken down and rations are short pro tem. What water we get is even more brackish than at ALEM EL CHEL.
10/01/43 (Sunday) At the present aerodrome the squadrons are being worked hard at Readiness and Stand-by. With only 16 serviceable pilots this means harder work than of late – work which is a welcome relief from the monotony. The Squadron carried out an uneventful, but extremely cold, sweep at 20,000 feet – the only consolation being that the pilots could just see TRIPOLI in the distance!!!
11/01/43 (Monday) The Squadron had another successful day, destroying two MACCHI 202’s and getting a probable 109. This latter was encountered alone on the first sweep of the day, four or five pilots getting in shots. It was awarded to F/Sgt. PROBERT. After lunch an uneventful sweep was carried out, but in the evening the Squadron was scrambled after fighter bombers coming in over TAMET. F/O. DUKE DFC. Celebrated his birthday, by destroying 2 MACCHI 202’s. A splendid show! At A.A.H.Q. the COMMANDING OFFICER was given particulars of the coming battle. The 8th Army seem supremely confident.
12/01/43 (Tuesday) Most of the Squadron were rudely awakened just after first light by 109’s flying low over the dispersal area and the Bofors guns having a field day. However no bombing or strafing was carried out. Just before the weather became too thick for operations a sweep of the forward area was carried out without incident. Several aircraft returned early owing to unserviceability. The difficulties of keeping up the serviceability in the present windy conditions are particularly difficult as we always seem to strike the down-wind end of the aerodrome.
13/01/43 (Wednesday) (Wednesday) Sandstorms again called operations to a standstill during the middle of the day. During the early morning before the weather thickened the Squadron did a delousing sweep for the Baltimores. Several 109’s and 202’s were engaged but our guns failed to fire in almost every aircraft that had the opportunity of a shot. Distressing as this is, it is inevitable under the conditions. F/Lt. SAMOUELLE claims a probable - the only claim. Once more a fire is installed in the Officers’ Mess thanks to F/O. RAWES.
14/01/43 (Thursday) Three sweeps were carried out. On the last, in the evening, 109’s were encountered in one’s and two’s but avoided combat. Victories were probably lost again due to guns jamming. The enemy seems to be losing the initiative in the air again. Seldom is he seen on our side of the line and does not show the tenacity of a week ago. CAPTAIN WYNDHAM-SMITH paid the Mess a visit and gave the pilots details of the coming battle which is due to start tonight. Good luck to the 8th Army!
15/01/43 (Friday) On all three sweeps the Squadron carried out today no enemy aircraft were seen and very few were reported by “Commander.” Despite the lull in air activity the ground activity has blazed up again. As planned the 8th ARMY launched their attack last night with TRIPOLI at all costs as their objective. GROUP CAPTAIN CARTER and WING COMMANDER ROSIE paid the Mess a visit this evening.
16/01/43 (Saturday) AIR CHIEF MARSHALL SIR SHOLTO-DOUGLAS paid the Squadron a visit during the morning. Three times the Squadron escorted KITTYHAWKS going out to bomb and strafe. No enemy aircraft were seen and the trips were uneventful except that on the first, two KITTYHAWKS collided and (through a misunderstanding) strafed our own troops instead of the enemy.
17/01/43 (Sunday) The enemy is definitely pulling out again and our troops took BIR DUFAN this morning. “A” Party were ordered to move to BIR DUFAN and left at 1400 hours. One KITTYBOMBER escort was carried out and one standing patrol was maintained over our forward troops during the afternoon. Long range tanks were put on during last night as the forward troops are now due South of Tripoli and almost out of range.
18/01/43 (Monday) Six of our aircraft took off this afternoon on an uneventful patrol over the SEDADA area. “A” party are still on the way to the new L.G. and are experiencing rough going through WADI ZEMZEM. An early halt was made and a search instituted for some of the vehicles which have taken the wrong track.
19/01/43 (Tuesday) Our aircraft move up from HAMRAIET to the new L.G at WADDI SURRI and arrive before the “A” party, with thoughts of sleeping under their “kites” without blankets. However, No. 145 SQUADRON come to their aid and our pilots sleep comfortably in the Mess of our sister Squadron. “A” Party contacts the missing vehicles near GHEDDAHIA and continue on the move. “B” Party packs up and makes headway along the coast road.
20/01/43 (Wednesday) COMMANDING OFFICER HARPER
Pilots, standing around their aircraft, greet “A” Party with derisive cheers as it reaches the L.G. just before noon with three vehicles on tow. Camp is set up in record time on the good site around a natural L.G. Four of our aircraft in sections of two are sent up on local patrols. Squadron LEADER HARPER is welcomed as our new COMMANDING OFFICER. He has been with us as supernumerary for the past few weeks.
21/01/43 (Thursday) Dawn readiness. No. 92 (EAST INDIA) SQUADRON is the first Squadron to do a daylight sweep from TRIPOLI. Our pilots tell us of the attractions of the City as seen from the air and we speculate as to the day the 8th ARMY will take it. In the afternoon the Squadron, led by WING COMMANDER DARWIN, meet eight Ju 87’s engaged in bombing our forward troops. “Hawk-eyed” F/O. NEVILLE DUKE DFC. spotted them from 15 miles away and he claims one destroyed. F/Lt. SAMOUELLE and F/O. JOWSEY shoot down two others in the CASTEL BENITO area and F/O. BAKER and Sgt. PATERSON probably destroy one each. An ARMY signal received within 30 minutes of the Squadron landing confirm the destruction of three STUKAS in the TARHUMA area so it should be possible to obtain confirmation of the probables. This was SAMMY’S last operational trip and it is fitting that he rounds off his tour by adding to his bag.
22/01/43 (Friday) Squadron is pleased to see NEVILLE DUKE as FLIGHT COMMANDER of “A” FLIGHT in place of F/Lt. SAMOUELLE who becomes O.T.E. Six of our aircraft fly in an offensive patrol over CASTEL BENITO area at 1000 and again at 1100 hours. In the afternoon five more patrolled the TIPOLI-SABRATHA ROAD and six escorted KITYHAWKS which bombed enemy positions in the ZUARA area. The bomb line is now drawn to the West of TRIPOLI and we expect our troops to enter soon.
23/01/43 (Saturday) TRIPOLI IS OURS! Several of the pilots air test their guns and find themselves in the city. They report many fires there. At a Mess meeting in the evening F/Lt. PAGE is appointed Bar Officer and P/O. ALLEN takes over the duties of MESS SECRETARY. We talk of ways and means of obtaining supplies of beer and spirits. As if it mattered!
24/01/43 (Sunday) Dawn readiness. Squadron takes off to patrol CASTEL BENITO to cover the landing of HUDSONS bringing up supplies. Three other “stooge” patrols are carried out without incident. Beer and spirits arrive from A.S.P. in time to welcome four new pilots, P/O. WILSON, F/Sgt. FRY. F/Sgt. BRUCKSHAW and F/Sgt. MacFARLAND.
25/01/43 (Monday) Four of our pilots fly to CASTEL BENITO to operate from there and remain on readiness all day, only two being “scrambled” for an interception patrol in the afternoon. From base, two aircraft escort a WELLINGTON to CASTEL BENITO, returning in time for dinner. SQUADRON LEADER MORGAN flies to TRIPOLI landing between the bomb craters. He is the first member of the Squadron to see the City and he entertains us with a lurid description of the place. How well he shoots the line!
26/01/43 (Tuesday) Squadron is released for training and new pilots find no difficulty in becoming “Spit” conscious. F/O. SLY returns from CASTEL BENITO with a Jerrycan of CHIANTI wine, which is consumed in the Mess within half-an-hour of “drawing the cork”
27/01/43 (Wednesday) No operational flying, and the opportunity is taken of a game of football against a WING side. We avenge our previous defeat by winning 4 – 1. Sgt. PILOT PATERSON featured prominently in the game. Our new ambulance arrives from MARBLE ARCH on tow. F/O. “BABE” WHITAMORE visits the Mess during the evening. More Chianti is disposed of with disastrous effects.
28/01/43 (Thursday) We are not required for operations so pilots busy themselves increasing the comforts of the Mess. The oil fed fire is a roaring success in spite of a rather smoky atmosphere.
29/01/43 (Friday) Four of our aircraft fly to CASTEL BENITO to operate from there, and two of them are “scrambled” for an uneventful patrol over TRIPOLI harbour. “Wingless Wonders” – DOC. (F/Lt. WOOLGROVE), F/O. RAWES, P/O. BOLLAND and P/O. CORNISH take the C.O.’s “Jeep” to MISURATA and buy vegetables. Belated but vey welcome news is received that F/Sgt. BROMHALL – reported missing 7th JAN. – is safe in hospital.
30/01/43 (Saturday) No operational flying and there is talk of leave in CAIRQ for the pilots. At mid-day we are delighted to see P/O. “BRAD” SMITH walk in the Mess, having hitch-hiked from CASTEL BENITO. The last news we had of him was that he was in Hospital in PALESTINE with a fractured spine after baling out on SEPT. lst at ALAMEIN. No. 1 S.A.A.F. SQUADRON came to our aid and supplied a two-gallon jar of brandy to enliven our farewell party to SQUADRON LEADER MORGAN and FLIGHT LIEUTENANT SAMOUELLE.
31/01/43 (Sunday) This day has been overshadowed by the departure of “MORGY” and "SAMMY." They are two or the original pilots who came overseas with the Squadron. SQUADRON LEADER MORGAN had a carefree, dare-devil spirit, combined with sound commonsense which made it a pleasure to serve him on the ground and in the air. This spirit was infectious and under his leadership the squadron has fully maintained its reputation of being one of the most outstanding fighter- squadrons. F/Lt. SAMOUELLE has more than fulfilled expectations, having risen from SERGEANT to FLIGHT COMMANDER within 12 months. His personal score amounts to seven destroyed and four probables and six damaged, and it is a tribute, in itself, to his aggressive spirit against the enemy. The loss will indeed be felt throughout the squadron but we wish them every success in their new sphere. No operational flying today. Arrangements are being made for four pilots to fly to CAIRO tomorrow for a short leave.
01/02/43 (Monday) No operational flying. F/Lt. CHISHOLM, F/Sgt. SAILS and Sgt. PATERSON were flown to CAIRO for well-earned leave. F/Lt. PAGE, with W/O. SANDERSON and W/O. JENKINS, went to MISURATA to obtain vegetables for the airmen.
02/02/43 (Tuesday) Four of our aircraft fly to CASTEL BENITO and, during the day, two of then are "scrambled” for an interception patrol over SABRATHA. No enemy aircraft are seen on this occasion nor later when the other two patrol CASTEL BENITO area. SQUADRON LEADER HARPER issues an invitation to dinner to the Wing Commander, Squadron Commanders and Flight Commanders and we are pleased to entertain , W/Cdr. GLEED, DSO., DFC, W/Cdr. DARWEN, DFC and BAR, and CAPTAIN WINDHAM SMITH from 244 WING HEADQUARTERS; MAJOR MOODY, CAPTAIN VILJOEN and LT.LANGHAM from No. 1 SAAF SQUADRON; S/Ldr. WADE, DFC. and BAR, F/Lt. TAYLOR, F/Lt. HESKETH from No. 145 (E.I.) SQUADRON; and F/Lt. WESTENRA, DFC., and F/O. WHITAMORE (ex 92) from No. 601 SQUADRON. During the evening F/O. SCUDDAY, P/O. LOUIS SMITH and Sgt. MacNAMARA return to us from Hospital bringing a supply of Chianti and whisky with them which played its part in making the party a great success. Music is provided until the early hours of the morning by Sgt. SCROGGIE (piano accordion) and L.A.C. MANN (percussion instruments).
03/02/43 (Wednesday) No operational flying, but F/Lt. DUKE, DFC., and P/O. McMAHON fly to CASTEL BENITO to be ready for a "hush-hush" escort job tomorrow. There is a lot of speculation regarding this forthcoming operation. During the afternoon a team of pilots, assisted by the "Doc" (F/Lt. WOOLGROVE) in goal, play and win against the Squadron Armourers. It was good football to watch enlivened by expert barracking from the touchline.
04/02/43 (Thursday) The operation, for which two aircraft flew to CASTEL BENITO yesterday, is cancelled, and the pilots return. In the afternoon S/Ldr. HARPER flies to CASTEL BENITO and, with other Squadron Commanders, is introduced to WINSTON CHURCHILL there. We extend a welcome to two more pilots, SERGEANTS ASKEY and WARREN, who arrive today.
05/02/43 (Friday) Another day with no operations. Instructions are received for our “A” party to move to CASTEL BENITO tomorrow. We have heard so much about this aerodrome and we look forward to being at our now location with the prospect of living in a building.
06/02/43 (Saturday) At dawn, four of our pilots fly to CASTEL BENITO to do Readiness there, and four times during the day a section of two aircraft are "scrambled" for interception patrols. These patrols are carried out without incident. "A" Party, on its way to the new L.G. arrive at HOMS, where they park for the night by the sea. Several men take advantage of this by having a swim after dark.
07/02/43 (Sunday) Twelve aircraft set out for CASTEL BENITO to operate from there and run into a severe storm on the way. One pilot is forced to turn back. Two of the aircraft are sent up on an uneventful interception patrol — the "bogey" proved to be friendly. At midday “A” Party arrives at CASTEL BENITO after a very wet journey, and sets up camp. It is decided that the Squadron will not make use of the buildings which are in a filthy condition.
08/02/43 (Monday) No operational flying. We take stock of the L.G. which is littered with enemy aircraft in various states of disrepair. It is interesting to see our MOSQUITOES and LIGHTNINGS here.
09/02/43 (Tuesday) A very dull day with no flying and plenty of rain. At noon, an order to
move to EL ASSA is received so Squadron is busy packing up again. During the evening the order is cancelled for twenty-four hours.
10/02/43 (Wednesday) No flying all flay. Order to move is postponed indefinitely and, accordingly our trucks are unloaded. In the afternoon, a liberty waggon takes 60 men on a visit to TRIPOLI. Twenty men report sick with vomiting and three of them are sent to hospital. It is suspected that food poisoning has caused this trouble and the “Doc” is kept busy inspecting in the cookhouse.
11/02/43 (Thursday) No more reports from the sick men this morning. They join another party on a visit to TRIPOLI and on returning all are agreed that it is a disappointing place. No operational flying.
12/02/43 (Friday) Landing ground is unserviceable owing to severe storm which raged throughout last night. Several of our tents and “bivvies” are blown down and flooded and it is impossible to dry blankets because the rain continues all day.
13/02/43 (Saturday) No flying today. We are delighted to hear of the awards to our pilots which are made known today. F/Lt. DUKE and the late S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD gets Bars to their DFC’s, and S/Ldr. MORGAN, F/Lt. SAMOUELLE and F/Lt. CHISHOLM received DFC. Additional awards of Bars to their DFC’s are also made to F/Lt. SAMOUELLE and F/Lt. CHISHOLM.
14/02/43 (Sunday) Bad weather continues and there is no flying. The Squadron Canteen Issues its own "notes" of 2d., 3d. and 6d. to overcome the lack of small change. Books of these "notes" are sold to personnel at 5s. each and just in time for the sale of TRIPOLI beer!
15/02/43 (Monday) Dawn readiness for the Squadron at WADI SURRI — now re-named DARRAGH — but they do no flying until late in the afternoon when they are sent to CASTEL BENITO. “B” Party packs up and prepares td move.
16/02/43 (Tuesday) There is some training this morning but no operational flying. “B” Party sets off from DARRAGH at dawn and arrives at CASTEL BENITO before dark. It is good to have the Squadron together again after being split up for over a week.
17/02/43 (Wednesday) Another quiet day with no flying apart from training flights and air tests of cannons. During the evening SERGEANT PILOT “BUCK” SHAFER - ex 92 Pilot - and LAC. MANN entertained the Squadron in the airmen’s mess. Chianti was liberally distributed at a shilling a pint and we all spent a very enjoyable evening. F/O. SIMPSON, Lt. SMITH, F/O. MacMAHON and F/O. SLY fly to CAIRO for four days leave.
18/02/43 (Thursday) One operational trip only today, but quite an important one. F/Lt. CHISHOLM and F/O. BAKER take off with four other pilots from the WING to provide an escort, the details of which are not yet disclosed. They are expected back tomorrow so perhaps we shall hear about it then.
19/02/43 (Friday) Our two aircraft return from MALTA this morning, having escorted the A.O.C.-in-C., AIR CHIEF MARSHAL SIR SHOLTO DOUGLAS on a visit there. There is training flying during the day but no operations.
20/02/43 (Saturday) Three times during the day two of our aircraft were "scrambled” on local interception patrols. In the first operation Controller said that our Section was very near to “Bandit* which was at 30,000 feet, but 8/10ths cloud at that height obscured it from view. The “bogey” reported in the second operation proved to be friendly, and the third patrol was carried out without incident. We welcome SERGEANT PILOT SYMES who joins the Squadron today.
21/02/43 (Sunday) No operational flying but plenty of training for our new pilots all day. They are anxious to get down to "Ops" and hope that we shall more forward soon.
22/02/43 (Monday) More training again today, in the afternoon we receive the welcome order to move. We are to start at 9 o'clock tomorrow morning for MEDENIN so our “B” Party is busy packing up.
23/02/43. (Tuesday) “A” Party move off punctually at 0900 hours and reach the TUNISIAN border before resting for the night. At 1500 hours part of “B” Party is ordered to move to the new landing ground and is instructed to continue through the night. Pilots continue their training programme.
24/02/43 (Wednesday) Three times during the day a Section of two of our aircraft are “scrambled” for an interception patrol over TRIPOLI and on each occasion there was no enemy aircraft sighted. The “A” Party arrives at the MEDENIN landing ground — called HASBUB — just an hour before the advance “B” Party and they settle down during the afternoon.
25/02/43 (Thursday) No operational flying. S/Ldr. HARPER flies to the new landing ground and tells us to expect the Squadron tomorrow. The personnel of the forward parties are kept busy digging slit trenches in anticipation of enemy air activity. We are within fifteen miles of the "bomb-line" so must be prepared.
26/02/43 (Friday) How glad we are that time was spared yesterday for “digging-in"! Our first air raid here occurs at 1100 hours just after No. 145 Squadron aircraft arrive. Eight Me. 109 Fighter-Bombers make a determined attack from 3,000 feet, dropping their H.E. and A.P. load well in the area. Our only casualty is CORPORAL WHITEHEAD, who is sent to No. 21 M.R.S. with head injuries. At 1320 hours four Me 109's dived to 4500 feet but dropped their bombs to the north-west of the landing ground on getting a warm reception from the guns. In the evening raid, at 1715, we suffered another casualty with head injuries, LAC. SHAW being taken to No. 21 M.R.S. This time five Me 109’s bombed the landing ground, but most of their load fell harmlessly on the runways. Our aircraft arrive about 1700 and remain on readiness until dusk but are not sent off.
27/02/43 (Saturday) Activity at last, although it consists mainly of local interception patrols! We do thirty sorties today, but on no occasion is an enemy aircraft sighted. There is only one enemy air raid on this landing ground and we suffer no damage at all, but one of our aircraft and a number of personnel had a lucky escape when an unexploded bomb landed under its port wing.
28/02/43 (Sunday) Dawn readiness is not for us this morning! The Squadron is at thirty minutes until 9 o'clock when four aircraft are called to standby and four to readiness for local interception. Just before 1000 hours four were scrambled but no enemy aircraft was seen. We are told that the Hun has found our "Permanent Echo" here and plotting is very difficult. The rear part of "B" Party arrives from CASTEL BENITO just after noon so the Squadron is once more complete.
01/03/43 (Monday) We shall remember this day for a long time although there was only one operational trip for us. Five aircraft were scrambled for a local interception patrol of the HASBUB area in the morning and were vectored on to three MACCHI 202’s. F/Lt. DUKE, DFC and BAR shot down two of them, thus being able to avoid the 13th score appearing on his aircraft. At 1700 hours the enemy started to shell the landing ground from the hills South-west of us and it was not long before he was able to get the range of the runway and dispersals. An order was received for all pilots to sit in the cockpit of their aircraft and in this we were fortunate in having six aircraft at “Standby” and another six at “Readiness. Just after 1800 hours, when the sun was going down, all aircraft were told to take off for landing grounds East of us. What a sight it was! Aircraft from three squadrons taking off from two narrow runways missed each other by inches. The ground personnel later received instructions to evacuate the landing ground.
02/03/43 (Tuesday) When the ground parties arrived at BEN GARDANE L.G. today they found 14 of our aircraft were already there, having flown from other landing grounds this morning. Many were the tales we heard of superb night landings made last night with the aid of emergency flare paths. Only one aircraft crashed and that was in taxying after a successful landing. We carried out two local interception patrols today without incident — the first with six aircraft and the other with two.
03/03/43 (Wednesday) F/Lt. DUKE DFC. And BAR, added another to his score on the first show this morning when three of our pilots gave independent top cover to aircraft of 145 SQUADRON “delousing” in the OUDREF AREA. His score is now 15 destroyed. Later in the morning we again operated with 145 SQUADRON in a sweep of the forward areas but no enemy aircraft were seen. Six of our Squadron were in a WING sweep of the GABES area in the afternoon but nothing, apart from heavy ack-ack was reported. We were very pleased to welcome F/Lt. HUMPHREYS who has joined the Squadron today.
04/03/43 (Thursday) F/Lt. DUKE’S day again today! In a local interception patrol, when eight of our aircraft encountered two Me 109’s escorting three or four Me 109 fighter-bombers engaged in bombing HASBUB L.G., he destroyed both of them. His score is now 17 confirmed — he has destroyed 5 enemy aircraft in the last four days. This was the sole operation of the day.
05/03/43 (Friday) We suffered a sad loss this morning in the only operational trip of the day. Four aircraft were providing independent top cover to No. 1 SAAF SQUADRON when they were attacked out of the clouds by seven Me 109’s. A dog-fight followed lasting for 15 minutes, but our pilots had no success. FLYING OFFICER (“HAPPY”) MacMAHON did not return and we heard later that he had crashed and been killed. Late this evening we received orders to move to HASBUB again tomorrow morning.
06/03/43 (Saturday) At 0600 hours this morning the enemy began a small offensive on this front and consequently all orders to move forward were cancelled. We carried out two offensive sweeps over the battle area. The first trip was uneventful and in the second our only interception was of “bogies” which proved to be HURRICANES. Interesting reports were received from the pilots of ground activity and later in the day we heard officially that 30 enemy tanks had been knocked out without our armour being engaged.
07/03/43 (Sunday) Today has been a very busy day for us. Forty-four sorties in all — the first at 0710 hours and the last at 1720 — and what great work our pilots have done! Without any loss to ourselves, five enemy aircraft were destroyed, three probably destroyed, and four damaged. F/Lt. DUKE DFC. and BAR brought his personal score to 19 destroyed and the Squadron bag now tops 250 destroyed. The total of the Squadron’s score now stands at 254½ destroyed, 101 probably destroyed and 134 damaged. The ground crews did magnificent work keeeping up the serviceability throughout the day and tribute must be paid to them in addition to the pilots for such a grand day’s performance. The other scorers were;- F/Lt. CHISHOLM DFC and BAR, 1 destroyed, 1 probable and 1 damaged. Sgt. ASKEY, 1 destroyed. F/O. SLY, 1 probable. F/Sgt. SAILS, 1 probable. F/O. JOWSEY, 1 damaged, F/Sgt. PATERSON, 2 damaged.
08/03/43 (Monday) In the five operations carried out today we have seen very few enemy aircraft. F/Lt. HUMPHREYS and P/O. WILSON both attacked F/W 190’s — encountered for the first time on this front — but their cannons jammed and they saw no results from machine-gun fire. With everything right forward and the “tit” pressed they were unable to keep up with the enemy aircraft which pulled away from them easily at 14,000 feet. We congratulate a former 92 pilot who has just been awarded the DSO. He is SQUADRON LEADER D.E. KINGABY, DFM and 2 BARS, who left on obtaining a Commission in October, 1941
09/03/43 (Tuesday) Six of our aircraft flew to HASBUB SATELLITE L.G. at dawn this morning and were scrambled from there for an uneventful patrol. They landed at BEN GARDANE and another six went to take their place at the forward base. Another patrol was carried out in which two Me 109’s were spotted but were lost in the haze. These pilots had instructions to remain overnight and were joined by six more just before dusk. The Squadron was ordered to move to the HASBUB L.G. at first light next morning.
10/03/43 (Wednesday) The Squadron arrived at HASBUB L.G. just before mid-day and heard a thrilling tale of five of our pilots who had been led by the WING COMMANDER in an escort to HURRICANE “TANK-BUSTERS” The “L” FORCE of the FREE FRENCH had been attacked by the enemy and were saved by the work of the HURRICANES which destroyed many enemy armoured vehicles and M.T., besides a couple of tanks. A message of congratulations was received from GENERAL LE CLERK, the OFFICER COMMANDING of “L” FORCE. Four other operations carried out seemed dull after this grand effort. Squadron personnel, after lunch, were sent to another L.G. by the coast at BU GRARA and they arrived there there in a short time to receive the aircraft. We welcome two new pilots – SEARGEANTS T.E. BRISTER and J.W. IVES.
11/03/43 (Thursday) A fairly quiet day with no joy for us on our two operational trips. Although a few HUNS were reported, none were seen. P/O. BRICKHILL and F/O. BRUCE returned from leave today with the news that each had been promoted. Besides having an additional ring F/Lt. BRUCE had also had a haircut!
12/03/43 (Friday) Only one show all day! In it we escorted a formation of BOSTONS to the forward areas but only one of our pilots saw an enemy aircraft. He, W/O. PROBERT became separated from the Squadron and was bounced by three Me 109’s over MARET. He diced with them all the way to base where he landed safely. F/Lt. DUKE DFC and BAR, F/Lt. CHISHOLM DFC and BAR, and F/Lt. HUMPHREYS were entertained by No. 1 SAAF SQUADRON tonight.
13/03/43 (Saturday) Two trips today, one an escort to KITTYHAWKS and the other involving six aircraft scrambled to augment the escorting section when they were engaged with Me 109’s. In the scrap, F/O. SIMPSON destroyed a Me 109, and both F/O. SAVAGE and F/O. BAKER damaged one. We congratulate F/Lt. E.A.G.C. BRUCE on taking over command of “B” Flight in place of F/Lt. W.L. CHISHOLM DFC and BAR, who has completed a most successful tour. In the evening when the Sergeants are being entertained by the Pilot’s Mess, F/Lt. DUKE makes an announcement which is greeted by prolonged cheers. It is that the Squadron is shortly to be equipped with SPITFIRE IX’s. We learn today of a tribute to our late COMMANDING OFFICER, S/Ldr. J.H. WEDGWOOD, DFC and BAR, by RICHARD CAPELL writing in the “DAILY TELEGRAPH” of 17th February, 1943. He said: “ I can mention some of its gallant leaders — Wedgwood, that crack Spitfire Commander so unmistakeably a born leader of men and as authoritative as lion-hearted……. Grievous to relate, S/Ldr. Wedgwood, that knightly commander, was killed flying back to England, his tour done.”
14/03/43 (Sunday) The only operation of the day was carried out without incident although it added one hour and 20 minutes to six pilots’ log books. A very happy evening was spent with WING COMMANDER GLEED, DSO. DFC., and MAJOR MOODY DFC., and several pilots from No. 1 SAAF SQUADRON as guests.
15/03/43 (Monday) Although the Squadron got many Stand-by hours in today, the aircraft did not take off for any operational trip. Our COMMANDING OFFICER, S/Ldr. HARPER returned from CAIRO where he had been attending a course.
16/03/43 (Tuesday) Before breakfast a section of four aircraft was scrambled for an uneventful patrol and no further operations were carried out. A representative of PATHE GAZETTE took some “shots” of our pilots, including one of F/Lt. DUKE DFC. and BAR in his aircraft marked with his score of 19 destroyed. The film will be on view in ENGLAND during the next month.
17/03/43 (Wednesday) Both F/Lt. BRUCE and F/Lt. HUMPHREYS added a damaged Me 109 to their score in the first trip today which was an interception patrol. The Squadron with 12 aircraft encountered 12 Me 109 fighter-bombers with a cover of six plus Me 109’s and three MACCHI 202’s. Unfortunately a Mc 202 got on F/O. BRICKHILL’S tail, scored hits in his mainplane which exploded his ammunition and he was forced to bale out. So far it has been impossible to get any definite news of him, but one report says he is safe in an M.R.S. The second patrol today was carried out without incident.
18/03/43 (Thursday) Very bad weather caused the cancellation of operations laid on for us today, and although the Squadron was at Stand-by for several hours, our aircraft did not take off. No definite news about F/O. BRICKHILL today, but a signal is received from army sources which reads “Friend says pilot safe but not on our side” and it may refer to him or to another pilot in the Wing who baled out on the same day.
19/03/43 (Friday) A strong North wind has been blowing all day and there has been 10/10ths cloud as low as 15,000 feet which has curtailed offensive operations. Early in the morning two of our pilots carried out a weather recce over the forward areas and later on two interception patrols were carried out but no enemy aircraft were seen. In the evening CAPTAIN HEFFORD — who has returned to the WING as A.L.O. — and F/O. HALES were entertained in the Pilot’s Mess.
20/03/43 (Saturday) WING COMMANDER GLEED, DSO., DFC., and S/Ldr. OLVER, DFC., flew with the Squadron today escorting KITTYHAWKS bombing at EL HAMMA. Not one enemy aircraft was seen. Ou aircraft were at Stand-by for several hours during the day in anticipation of “STUKA” raids on the NEW ZEALAND troops, but no further operations were carried out. A few days ago some of our pilots bought some ducks and they have kept them in a pen near the Mess. Today a notice appeared in D.R.O’s which read:- “The undermentioned officer has been appointed Poultry Officer w.e.f. 18th March, 1943. all personnel interested in Big Game are to submit their names to the Officer i/c Poultry forthwith — F/O. SLY, P.K.U.” !! What we are really interested in is when they will be fat enough to appear on the table.
21/03/43 (Sunday) No enemy aircraft were seen on the two operational trips today. Most of the time was spent by the Squadron intercepting friendly aircraft.
22/03/43 (Monday) The Squadron escorted “TANK-BUSTER” HURRICANES in a most interesting operation this afternoon. The NEW ZEALAND FORCES who have outflanked the MARETH LINE were about to be attacked by enemy armour but the HURRICANES inflicted heavy damage on tanks, armoured cars and other vehicles and 1,500 prisoners were taken by the “KIWI’S”
23/03/43 (Tuesday) Before dawn today, F/Lt. DUKE DFC., and BAR, F/O. JOWSEY, P/O. WILSON and F/O. PROBERT flew to ALGIERS to collect four Spitfire IX’s for the Squadron. They arrived back — delighted with the performance of the new aircraft — before dinner. Thirty-six sorties were carried out by the Squadron today, but, although in one operation several pilots fired, no claims were made. There was an amusing incident over the HUN L.G. at GABES when F/O. SAVAGE was on the tail of a 109 about to land there. The Hun, apparently thinking our pilot intended to land with his wheels up, fired a red Verey light at him! The windscreens on F/Lt. HUMPHREYS’ and W/O. FRY’S aircraft iced up when, diving to deck level from 20,000 feet, they attacked a F/W 190 and Me 109 respectively and they were unable to observe results from their fire.
24/03/43 (Wednesday) It was an impressive sight when the Squadron and 601 Squadron gave close cover this morning to three Squadrons of KITTYHAWKS and a Squadron of HURRICANE “TANK-BUSTERS” attacking enemy transport and armoured vehicles in the EL HAMMA area. In the second operation of the day, F/Lt. BRUCE was forced to return owing to engine trouble and this gave F/O. BAKER his first opportunity to lead the Squadron formation. No enemy aircraft were seen but the capability of F/O. BAKER as a leader was evident in his handling of the formation over the intense “flak” the enemy put up.
25/03/43 (Thursday) A total of 33 sorties were carried out today, including 11 with the new SPITFIRE IX’s. In the second operation several pilots fired at a JU 88 which they encountered, but F/Lt. DUKE was the only one to observe results of his attack. He set the enemy’s port engine on fire and claims a damaged. It is announced that the DFC has been awarded to LIEUTENANT S. RABIE, SAAF. He left this Squadron on December 11th last year after completing a tour in which he excelled himself as “Professional No. 2” to S/Ldr. WEDGWOOD. Grand show, Bill!
26/03/43 (Friday) F/Lt. P.H. HUMPHREYS has been appointed FLIGHT COMMANDER of “B” FLIGHT in place of F/Lt. BRUCE, who was injured yesterday when his plane crashed on return from an operational flight. In the four operations today not once was an enemy aircraft encountered. From 1500 to 1800 hours the Squadrons of this WING did a record number of sorties — 72 — covering KITTYHAWKS who spent the afternoon bombing and strafing enemy transport and armour. The A.O.C. sent a signal congratulating everyone on “a magnificent performance”
27/03/43 (Saturday) Soon after dawn this morning a telephone call came through to F/Lt. NEVILLE DUKE at Dispersal from the A.O.C. with the grand news that an award of the DSO had been made to him. A well-earned “gong” is the Squadron’s opinion. During the first week of the month, while acting Squadron Commander during S/Ldr. HARPER’S absence, “NEVILLE” destroyed seven enemy aircraft bringing his total bag to 19 destroyed, four probably destroyed and three damaged. The Squadron undertook three operations today. In the first one F/O. BRADLEY SMITH had a lucky escape when his aircraft received a direct hit from BREDA fire — he was able to coax it back to base. We suffered a sad loss in the third trip when one Me 109 flew straight down through one of our sections and F/Sgt. SAILS was seen to go into a spin — probably hit — over the enemy lines. He has not yet returned and it is feared that it was his aircraft which was seen burning on the ground.
28/03/43 (Sunday) There was only one operation, involving a section of six aircraft, for us today and no enemy aircraft were seen. For the first time since we were at CASTEL BENITO there was a supply of half-a-pint of beer for the airmen. The Pilot’s Mess drew lots for eight bottles which was its quota. It is hard to understand why the N.A.A.F.I has not made an effort to get supplies to the forward Wings more regularly.
29/03/43 (Monday) A much busier day for us and once again F/Lt. DUKE, DSO., DFC. and BAR, added to his bag bringing his total to 20 destroyed. F/O. SAVAGE also brought down a 109 and F/O. BRADLEY SMITH damaged one. In all, we carried out 40 sorties in the SFAX area. The 8th ARMY got through the MARETH LINE and GABES is reported to be in our hands already. Our Medical Officer, F/Lt. WOOLGROVE, had an interesting experience when he went out in a motor boat to an Air Sea Rescue off DJERBA ISLAND today. The launch had been bombed and strafed ten miles off SFAX after it rescued a pilot who had been in the sea for five hours. At the end of the day our scoreboard showed a full total of 498½ and we hope that we shall reach the 500 mark tomorrow.
30/03/43 (Tuesday) Our hopes expressed yesterday were realised just after noon today when F/O. SLY probably destroyed a Me 109, F/Lt. HUMPHREYS damaged a Me 210 and F/O. SIMPSON damaged a Me 109, bringing the full total to 501½. In this operation our Squadron spotted 12 210’s escorted by 18 plus Me 109’s and went into the attack, forcing the enemy bombers to drop their bombs in their own territory near CEKHIRA. There were three other trips but no enemy aircraft were sighted.
31/03/43 (Wednesday) In the first operation today we “deloused” for two squadrons of KITTYHAWKS and 18 MITCHELLS over SFAX but no enemy forces appeared to add interest to our part of the job. Again, in the afternoon, during the only other operation, there was no sign of “Jerry” although a few were reported by the Controller. This month has added 13 destroyed, four Probables, and 12 Damaged to our score.
BU GRARA, TUNISIA
01/04/43 (Thursday) Out total sorties amounted to six only today. There was no sign of the enemy when four of our Spitfire IX’s with aircraft of No. 1 SAAF and 145 Squadrons deloused for MITCHELLS and KITTYHAWKS over the SFAX area, and later in the day the weather was too bad for further bombing operations; two of our aircraft reported low cloud covering the area when on a weather reconnaissance.
02/04/43 (Friday) This was a much busier day. Four times a section of six were scrambled for interception patrols but on no occasion was the enemy seen. The Squadron, with four Spitfire IX’s and eight Spitfire V’s, gave independent cover to KITTYHAWKS which bombed M.T. west of CEKHIRA this afternoon, but nothing turned up to upset the operation.
03/04/43 (Saturday) It was just as well that there was only one operation today because several pilots have had a bout of “Gyppy tummy.” The “DOC” has expressed his considered opinion that our water supply has caused this trouble, and he has the matter in hand. Our six aircraft which took off on an interception patrol were unable to fly inland in the SFAX area because of cloud at 1,000 feet over the area. A supply of TRIPOLI beer arrived and each man was allowed a half-pint. There have been no reports that anyone was unable to cope with this quantity.
04/04/43 (Sunday) The Squadron was released for the day and several pilots spent the day on DJERBA ISLAND, while others visited ZARZIS. In the afternoon we were asked to come to readiness but the only pilots available were four still suffering from internal trouble.
05/04/43 (Monday) We expected a busy day but there was only one operation and that was when six aircraft were scrambled for an interception North of GABES. The only aircraft intercepted proved to be SPITFIRES of 145 SQUADRON!
06/04/43 (Tuesday) All records for the number of sorties flown in any one day were broken by the WING today when a total of 247 was reached. From early morning till dusk continuous patrols were maintained over the battle area. There was little sign of the enemy until the afternoon, although the COMMANDING OFFICER, S/Ldr. W.J. HARPER, got a “squirt” at a Me 109 in the morning. The enemy aircraft dived vertically, apparently out of control, but no claim was made. WING COMMANDER GLEED, DSO., DFC., damaged a Me 109, when leading our formation in a patrol late in the afternoon, but our pilots were unable to get within range.
07/04/43 (Wednesday) The patrols over the enemy side of the battle area were continued all day today, and once again the enemy put up little opposition to our effort. Our pilots brought back valuable information, regarding HUN troop movements, which kept the Light Bombers and Fighter-bombers busy.
08/04/43 (Thursday) Our “A” Party was instructed to be on the move by mid-day and to report at ADVANCED GROUP H.G. for routeing instructions. They arrived there before dusk and were told to be ready to move on a minute’s notice, but no further instructions were received. The Squadron carried out 34 sorties today at MAHARES — MEZZOUNA area. On two operations enemy aircraft were seen but the combats in each case were inconclusive. F/Lt. HUMPHREYS had an argument with the GROUND CONTROLLER regarding the identity of an aircraft he had attacked. While he was convinced that it was a Me 109, the Controller was positive that it was a F/W 190.
09/04/43 (Friday) Six aircraft escorted KITTYHAWKS which attacked shipping in SFAX harbour this morning, but there were no further operations. Meanwhile, the “A” Party remained near ADVANCED GROUP H.Q. without news until late in the evening when they were instructed to move at first light next morning to CECKIRA.
10/04/43 (Saturday) At dawn, a section gave independent top cover to KITTYHAWKS on an armed reconnaissance in the EL DJEM area. No enemy aircraft were reported or seen. At CEKHIRA, the “A” Party found Squadrons of 79 FIGHTER GROUP setting up camp so they remained packed up awaiting further instructions. It was almost 2200 hours before any were received so it was decided to move to the new landing ground before breakfast next morning.
LA FANCONNERIE
11/04/43 (Sunday) Before noon, camp was set up by the “A” Party at LA FANCONNERIE L.G. and the aircraft arrived in the afternoon. No operations all day.
BU GRARA
12/04/43 (Monday) “B” Party moved up to H.Q. No. 211 GROUP for instructions and remained for the night in the vicinity. Once again, we were not called on for operations.
LA FANCONNERIE
13/04/43 (Tuesday) After two days rest our pilots were pleased to get “off the deck” today. An interception patrol in the morning was uneventful and no enemy aircraft were seen either by them or later in the day when we gave cover to two squadrons of No. 7 SAAF WING in an offensive sweep of the forward areas. Before noon he “B” Party arrived at BOU GOUBRINE but the landing ground had not been prepared so they set up camp on a hill overlooking the site.
14/04/43 (Wednesday) Two offensive patrols were carried out today — the first by four Spitfire IX’s and the other by four Spitfire IX’s and six V’s. In the second operation two Me 109’s dived at high speed past the starboard section but their speed prevented interception.
BOU GOUBRINE
15/04/43 (Thursday) The “A” party moved up to join the rest of the Squadron at BOU GOUBRINE after the aircraft left this morning. Packing up had been delayed slightly when six pilots took off for an offensive sweep, but the Squadron was complete again just after noon at the new landing ground.
16/04/43 (Friday) Two new SERGEANT PILOTS joined us today, they are Sgts. SAVILL and PERCIVAL. They arrive in time to see five enemy aircraft destroyed added to our total score. When three of our SPITFIRE IX’s gave top cover to 145 SQUADRON on a sweep to CAPE BON, 18 S.M. 82’s were spotted flying low over the sea and F/Lt. DUKE, DSO, DFC and BAR, led the attack, destroying two himself , while F/O. T. SAVAGE got another two “flamers” and P/O. G. WILSON added the fifth. F/Lt. DUKE was attacked by six plus Me 109’s, but by brilliant evasive action got home without one hole in his aircraft. There were 24 sorties in all, but no more enemy aircraft were seen.
17/04/43 (Saturday) There have been many promotions in the Squadron recently which have not been recorded so it may be well to give a list of pilots and officers now with us. Our COMMANDING OFFICER is S/Ldr. W.J. HARPER. And the FLIGHT COMMANDERS are F/Lt. N.F. DUKE, DSO, DFC, and BAR, and F/Lt. HUMPHREYS. The following pilots are operational;- F/O. E. SLY, F/O. B.D. BAKER, F/O. T. SAVAGE, F/O. M. JOWSEY, P/O. G. WILSON, P/O. H. PATERSON, W/O. S. FRY, F/Sgt. L. MacKAY, F/Sgt. P. INCHCOMBE, F/Sgt. M. ASKEY and Sgt. P.E. BRISTER in “A” FLIGHT, and F/O. D. TURVEY, F/O. K. SIMPSON, F/Lt. M. JACKSON, F/O. BRADLEY-SMITH, P/O. W. BRUCKSHAW, P/O. R. MacFARLANE, P/O. R. PROBERT, Lt. A. SACHS, F/ Sgt. F. SYMES, F/Sgt. W. IVES, F/Sgt. K. WARREN, F/Sgt. MacNAMARA, Sgt. G. BUCHANAN, F/Sgt. H.G. JOHNSON in “B” FLIGHT. Our ADJUTANT is F/Lt. L.M. PAGE and the other “Penguins” are F/Lt. C.G. WOOLGROVE (“DOC”), F/O. J. RAWES (ENGINEER OFFICER), F/O. G.J. CORNISH (INTELLIGENCE OFFICER) and P/O. ALLEN (EQUIPMENT OFFICER). May this team soon see TUNIS in our hands! We have carried out two sweeps over the CAPE BON PENINSULAR today. The first one with No. 1 SAAF and 145 SQUADRONS and the second covering two Squadrons of KITTYHAWKS. There was no sign of the enemy in the air, but reports were made of a little shipping activity. In the evening MAJOR MOODY, DFC., and several pilots from No. 1 SAAF SQUADRON visited us and we spent a very happy time with their company in spite of the fact that the only liquor available was lemon juice. F/Lt. a. GLENDINNING, a former pilot with this Squadron, has been awarded a well-deserved DFC., and we offer him our sincere and hearty congratulations.
18/04/43 (Sunday) Soon after dawn our Squadron escorted KITTYHAWKS of No. 7 SAAF Wing on an offensive sweep of the CAPE BON PENINSULAR which passed off uneventfully and during the morning a section of six aircraft carried out an interception patrol without meeting any enemy aircraft. It was a late sweep of the CAPE BON PENINSULAR that provided the excitement of the day. We gave escort and top cover to four Squadrons of KITTYHAWKS and that in itself was an impressive sight but when they were near RASO EL AHMAR large numbers of enemy transport planes were spotted flying low to the North-east with a close escort of fighters. The KITTYHAWKS “waded in” to the enemy aircraft while we covered them. The only enemy aircraft seen above the KITTYHAWKS were one Me 109, which F/Lt. DUKE chased out to sea until his cannons jammed, and one Mc 202, which F/O. M. JOWSEY shot down into the sea. The KITTYHAWKS got the amazing score of 58 Ju 52’s, 14 Me 109’s and two Me 110’s destroyed, a Ju 52 and a Me 109 probably destroyed, and 11 Ju 52’s, six Me 109’s and one Me 110 damaged. Their leader thanked our Squadron for the successful cover they gave them and said that it was due to the knowledge that they would not be attacked from above that they were able to amass such a grand score.
19/04/43 (Monday) This was a day after our pilots’ hearts because each operation was a show which had been laid on in advance with only a short period of Stand-by before they took off. The first formation of ten aircraft were off at 0630 hours and they escorted and gave top cover to KITTYHAWKS in an offensive sweep of CAPE BON PENINSULAR with the intention of intercepting more enemy transport aircraft. We were out of luck, however, and there was no sign of the enemy in the air. In the afternoon, three more sweeps were carried out with large formations of KITTYHAWKS, but again no enemy aircraft were seen. It has been announced during the past 24 hours a total of 96 enemy planes have been destroyed on this front.
20/04/43 (Tuesday) F/Sgt. M. ASKEY was our outstanding pilot today — he claimed three Mc 202’s destroyed while F/O. SLY and F/O. BAKER destroyed two more Mc 202’s between them. W/O. FRY and Sgt. BRISTER damaged one Mc 202 each. The first two operations were escort and top cover to KITTYHAWKS over CAPE BON PENINSULAR, and it was in the first of these that F/O. SLY and F/Sgt. ASKEY disposed of two out of three enemy aircraft encountered. Just after mid-day, there was a Wing Offensive Sweep EAST OF KELIBIA and our Squadron spotted a “gaggle” of 12 plus Me 109’s and Mc 202’s about 1,000 feet above them. We attacked with the splendid result of three Mc 202’s claimed as destroyed and two damaged. In the last trip of the day, four of our SPITFIRE IX’s gave top cover to No. 1 SAAF escorting HURRICANE “TANK-BUSTERS” but no suitable targets were found. F/O. JOWSEY chased a lone Me 109 to REYVILLE but he was unable to close to more than 600 yards and he makes no claim. Our C.O., S/Ldr. W.J. HARPER, several pilots and our ENGINEER OFFICER, F/O. RAWES, spent an exceedingly happy evening with No. 1 SAAF Squadron, while others celebrated the Squadron’s success at F/Sgt. ASKEY’S expense in our own mess.
21/04/43 (Wednesday) After the intensive operations of the last few days we reached an anti-climax today when the Squadron sat in their cockpits on Stand-by for three hours in the hot sun without being sent off at all. The only operation was a weather reconnaissance carried out by two aircraft over KORBA. In the evening S/Ldr. HARPER, F/Lt. PAGE, our ADJUTANT, and F/O. J. RAWES, the ENGINEER OFFICER, were entertained at the WING OFFICERS’ MESS where beer flowed freely and a happy time was had by all. F/O. F WIHAK joined us today on posting from 238 SQUADRO.N
22/04/43 (Thursday) The Squadron did an hour and a half Stand-by before taking off to escort KITTYHAWKS on an offensive sweep over the GULF OF TUNIS. We were unfortunate in not encountering any enemy aircraft because other SPITFIRES from our WING with KITTYHAWKS of 239 WING and 7 SAAF WING ran into a large formation of Me 323’s escorted by Me 109’s and Mc 202’s and destroyed 25 of the six-engined transport planes together with seven Me 109’s. In the late afternoon 14 of our pilots were on Stand-by for another hour and a half, but did not take off. We are now without supplies of beer, spirits or cigarettes, but have hopes that the N.A.A.F.I. will come to our aid before long.
23/04/43 (Friday) There was no sign of the HUN during our three shows today. Two of the “ops” were delousing jobs for bombers who attacked enemy gun positions in the forward areas and the other was a close escort to KITTYHAWKS on a sweep of the GULF OF TUNIS. F/O. L.R.G SMITH — now O.T.E. — left us today on posting to A.D.U., and with him went F/Sgt. McNAMARA, who is to report to 238 SQUADRON. We are sorry to see them go. We were delighted to read a letter addressed to “DOC” WOOLGROVE from our grand old “ADJ” McGOWAN. He is in SCOTLAND but misses the boys from 92. F/O. TRAVIS reported today to take over the duties of adjutant from F/Lt. PAGE.
24/03/43 (Saturday) Rather a quiet day. Two pilots took off at dawn to patrol over a convoy nearing SFAX harbour and later in the morning our two FLIGHT COMMANDERS went up to attempt an interception of an enemy recce plane but they had no luck. The Squadron escorted four Squadrons of KITTYHAWKS just after mid-day on a bombing operation in the ENFIDAVILLE area but no enemy aircraft were seen. Two cuttings from English newspapers have arrived out here referring to the award of the DSO., to F/Lt. DUKE. One from the “SUNDAY EXPRESS” dated 27th, March, 1943, says:- “HALF-PLANE OFF RECORD — GETS DSO. – A RAF pilot who is half a plane short of the record “bag” for the MIDDLE EAST, has just been awarded the DSO. — but he is now operating against the JAPANESE in the PACIFIC. (Note. Where the hell did they get that yarn!!!) He is ACTING FLIGHT LIEUTENANT NEVILLE FREDERICK DUKE, who already has a bar to his DFC., and who has already destroyed 19 aircraft.” The other cutting is from the “TONBRIDGE COURIER” dated 2nd APRIL, 1943, and reads:- “ACE TRIUMPHS AGAIN. Readers will learn with pride and interest that FLIGHT LIEUTENANT NEVILLE F. DUKE, of TONBRIDGE, has now been awarded the DSO., his third distinction in less than 18 months. F/Lt. DUKE, who is the son of Mr. and MRS. F.H. DUKE, of 82, HADLOW ROAD, TONBRIDGE, was awarded the DFC., last year, and we recently reported that he had received his BAR. With his latest award this intrepid officer has now brought his score up to 19½ , the final plane being “shared” with another pilot. The latest distinction, contained in a Press cablegram from CAIRO, was probably for seven “kills” in one week.”
25/04/43 (Sunday) Forty-four sorties were carried out today but the HUN did not show himself at all. In the first “Op” we gave independent cover to 36 BALTIMORES and 32 KITTYHAWKS which attacked a target North of ENFIDAVILLE. It was the second trip which provided the excitement of the day when we carried out a sweep of the GULF OF TUNIS with three squadrons of KITTYHAWKS. Although no enemy aircraft appeared, the enemy showed his unfriendliness by sending up intensive Ack-Ack from RASS EL FORTASS area, scoring a hit on P/O. R. PROBERT’S SPITFIRE IX. He was forced to bale out when ten miles East of KORBA, but was reported to be safe in his dinghy when the Squadron left him. Six of our aircraft later escorted the intrepid pilot of the WALRUS to the position and picked him up safe and sound. He had spent two and a quarter hours paddling around in his dinghy, but his only complaint was that he had lost one shoe of a pair he had bought only the previous day. The COMMANDING OFFICER and three others carried out a reconnaissance of the SOLIMAN landing Grounds in preparation for an attack by 54 Light Bombers and six Squadrons of KITTYHAWKS in the late afternoon for which we provided independent cover. At night we entertained F/O. HALES and the WALRUS pilot who had rescued P/O. PROBERT.
26/04/43 (Monday) In thick mist, F/Lt. DUKE took off at dawn to do a recce of the SOLIMAN area and GULF OF TUNIS. The weather was too bad for him to land here so he had breakfast with friends of 450 SQUADRON at KAIROUAN. It had cleared a little when F/O. TURVEY and W/O. FRY carried out another recce of the same area, but they also reported the weather unsuitable for bombing operations. A targe just North of ENFIDAVILLE was attacked at mid-day by BALTIMORES and KITTYHAWKS, to which we provided independent cover. In the afternoon we did two sweeps of the SOLIMAN and CAPE BON areas but no enemy aircraft were encountered. Rather an uneventful and quiet day.
27/04/43 (Tuesday) Cloud covered enemy territory at heights varying from 6,000 to 23,000 feet during today’s operations. A standing patrol was maintained throughout the morning by our Wing over GROMBALIA area and we contributed 14 sorties to this operation without encountering the enemy. Nine plus Me 109’s were seen during an interception patrol by the Squadron in the afternoon, but the enemy aircraft were very anxious not to engage in combat and found sanctuary in the clouds. Both F/Lt. p.H. HUMPHREYS and F/O. BRADLEY SMITH fired, but they were unable to observe results of their attacks. SEARGEANT PILOTS LAWSON, ALLEN and RATCLIFF joined us today on posting from 244 WING TRAINING FLIGHT.
28/04/43 (Wednesday) Very little doing for us today. In the morning S/Ldr. OLVER, of 244 WING, and three of our pilots carried out an offensive sweep of the CAPE BON area, but there were no enemy aircraft about. F/O. TURVEY was leading a section of eight, later in the morning, as cover to three Squadrons of KITTYHAWKS and two Squadrons of special HURRICANES, but when they reached the rendezvous they were told that the operation had been cancelled. Two Mc 202’s were destroyed and a Me 109G damaged in a delousing operation by four of our SPITFIRE IX’s, led by F/O. SAVAGE, in the afternoon. They met ten plus enemy aircraft, but several of them climbed away, on sight of our planes, into cloud. F/Sgt. ASKEY added a destroyed to his score which now stands at five confirmed, and W/O. Fry destroyed the other. F/O. SAVAGE severely damaged the 109 whose undercarriage dropped, but it was able to climb away slowly into cloud pouring volumes of white smoke. Our Squadron score is now 270½ destroyed, 102 probably destroyed and 145 damaged. The “bag” since we arrived in the MIDDLE EAST is 77 — 21 — 87.
29/04/43 (Thursday) Three operations were carried out today in connection with anti-shipping patrols by KITTYHAWKS in the CAPE BON area. In the first “show” 12 of our aircraft escorted three Squadrons of 239 WING but no enemy aircraft were seen. Later, four of our SPITFIRE IX’s deloused for KITTYHAWKS and encountered three Mc 202’s. Both P/O. Paterson — who led the formation after the leader ws forced to return with engine trouble — and P/O. WILSON fired as they followed the enemy aircraft in a dive. Our pilots recorded 450 m.p.h. in their dive but lost the MACCHIS at 2,000 feet. We were more fortunate in our last operation of the day when 12 of our aircraft escorted four Squadrons of 79 PURSUIT GROUP. We were attacked by 12 plus Me 109’s, Mc 202’s and F/W 190’s and Lt. SACHS damaged a Me 109. Five other pilots fired at several aircraft each and a parachute was seen at 10,000 feet over CAPE BON. We are claiming an unidentified aircraft destroyed and await the result of the combat films because no pilot will put forward an individual claim for it.
30/04/43 (Friday) After viewing yesterday’s combat films it was decided that the aircraft destroyed yesterday should be credited to F/O. D.L.G. TURVEY. Our six operations today have all been in connection with anti-shipping patrols by KITTYHAWKS. During the last show we were attacked by three Mc 202’s and later another nine Me 109’s and Mc 202’s joined in the fight which took place in and out of the cloud. This cloud prevented full observation of results but P/O. MACFARLANE, Lt. SACHS and F/O. BRADLEY SMITH each damaged a Mc 202. We suffered no loss. This month we have carried out 581 sorties with a total of 841 hours 40 minutes operational flying time. F/Lt. L.M. PAGE left us today and F/O. G.L. TRAVIS has taken over the duties of SQUADRON ADJUTANT.
01/05/43 (Saturday) One of our spitfire IX's has been named "India Print and Paper" at the request of THE EAST INDIA FUND FOR BRITISH SERVICES who presented the aircraft to the Squadron. Today we have flown 36 sorties in support of anti-shipping patrols by the KITTTYHAWK WINGS. In the operation just after mid-day we regret t to say that F/Sgt. P. INCHCOMBE was forced to bale out owing to engine trouble and his body was found by the ARMY in the forward areas. Not once were enemy aircraft encountered throughout the day.
02/05/43 (Sunday) We heard today that F/O. P. BRICKHILL, who was reported missing on 17th March, is a prisoner-of-war in GERMANY. Soon after dawn a section of six aircraft carried out a shipping patrol in the GULF OF HAMMAMET and later in the morning we did an offensive patrol in the GULF OF TUNIS with four SPITFIRS IX’s. On these trips and in the third operation of the morning — when we escorted KITTTYHAWKS on an anti-shipping patrol in the CAP BON area — there was no sign of the LUFTWAFFE. We congratulate S/Ldr. P. OLVER, D.F.C., who has been appointed WING COMMANDER to 244 WING in place of W/Cdr. GLEED who was reported missing on 16th April.
03/05/43 (Monday) A fairly quiet day for us owing to bad weather over the GULF OF TUNIS. A section of six aircraft did a shipping patrol before breakfast and at mid-day while we had eight aircraft escorting KITTYHAWKS on an anti-shipping patrol in the GULF OF TUNIS, another section of four carried out an offensive patrol in the same area. No enemy aircraft were seen or reported.
04/05/43 (Tuesday) We began the day with a shipping patrol just after dawn and finished with another one when our aircraft made dusk landings. In the morning we carried out an uneventful patrol over the GULF OF TUNIS and later on we escorted KITTYHAWKS on an anti-shipping patrol in the same area. W/Cdr. P. OLVER DFC., led a formation of three SPITFIRE IX’s on an offensive patrol of the area North of ENFIDAVILLE late in the afternoon but, as in other operations, no enemy aircraft were encountered. Perhaps the HUN is saving his LUFTWAFFE for one final show at the end of this campaign.
05/05/43 (Wednesday) At 1000 hours this morning we received instructions for our “A” PARTY to move up to HERGLA and by the early afternoon the move had been completed but the aircraft remained at GOUBRINE. A weather and shipping recce was made at dawn and, when a favourable report was given, our Squadron escorted KITTYHAWKS on an anti-shipping patrol in the GULF OF TUNIS. Later in the morning four of our SPITFIRE IX’s carried out an offensive patrol in the same area led by W/Cdr. P. OLVER DFC. The leader and P/O. R. PROBERT damaged a Me 109 each out of a formation of 30 plus Me 109’s and Mc 202’s they encountered. At mid-lay we escorted BALTIMORES and KITTYHAWKS over the CAP BON PENINSULAR and our last operation of the day was an escort to KITTYHAWKS on an anti-shipping patrol in the usual area.
COMMANDING OFFICER HUMPHREYS
06/05/54 (Thursday) A signal was received today appointing F/Lt. P.H. HUMPHREYS as SQUADRON COMMANDER to take the place of S/Ldr. W.J. HARPER, who becomes O.T.E. S/Ldr. P.H. HUMPHREYS is the eleventh Commanding Officer of the Squadron since it was reformed on 10th OCTOBER, 1939. Our new COMMANDING OFFICER first joined the Squadron in JULY, 1941, and rejoined us on 3rd MARCH this year. F/O. E. SLY takes over command of "B" FLIGHT from today. Before our aircraft flew up to HERGLA this morning, two SPITFIRE V’s carried out a weather recce of the FURNA area, and the Squadron escorted KITTYHAWKS on an anti-shipping patrol in the GULF OF TUNIS. KITTYHAWKS were again escorted in the afternoon when they attacked a target in the OUDNA area,. No enemy aircraft were seen on any of these operations or in the last show of the day when we made an offensive patrol over the GULF OF TUNIS.
07/05/43 (Friday) Our four operations today were all connected with anti-shipping patrols in the GULF OF TUNIS but there were no encounters with the enemy. At night, we had a heavy thunderstorm and the landing ground appeared to be unserviceable. TUNIS is in our hands!
08/05/43 (Saturday) Our aircraft returned to GOUBRINE one by one as soon as they could be dragged out of the mud this morning. The first operation of the day was an escort and top cover to LIGHT-BOMBERS which “plastered” the landing ground at PANTELLERIA and in the afternoon we escorted KITTYHAWKS on an anti-shipping patrol in the GULF OF TUNIS. Four of our SPITFIRE IX’s carried out an offensive patrol during this latter operation. At night, S/Ldr. W.J. HARPER received the news that a possibility existed of his returning to ENGLAND and this was duly celebrated.
09/05/43 (Sunday) The Squadron was active from dawn to dusk again today. At 0455 hours two of our pilots made a weather recce of the CAP BON and PANTELLERIA areas and this was followed an hour later by an escort to KITTYHAWKS on an anti-shipping patrol in the same areas. Two Squadrons of KITTYHAWKS were escorted to the CAP BON area later in the morning and just after mid-day four of our SPITFIRE IX’s carried out an offensive patrol there. Another anti-shipping patrol by KITTYHAWKS was escorted to CAP BON in the afternoon and at dusk W/Cdr. P. OLVER DFC., led five SPITFIRE IX’s on a patrol of the east aide of the peninsular hoping to intercept enemy transport aircraft but none were seen.
10/05/43 (Monday) The A.O.C. in C., AIR CHIEF MARSHAL SIR ARTHUR TEDDER and the A.O.C., AIR VICE MARSHAL H. BROADHURST, visited the Squadron today. Three operations were carried out in connection with the bombing of PANTELLERIA by LIGHT BOMBERS and we also escorted KITTYHAWKS on an armed recce of the CAP BON area.
The LUFTWAFFE continued to be conspicuous by its absence. F/O. DICKS-SHERWOOD joined the Squadron on posting from 238 SQUADRON. Durin the last few days when TUNIS and BIZERTA have fallen to our ARMIES we have been able to have a ringside view of shelling by our troops against the enemy pocket which still exists within nine miles of our landing ground.
11/05/43 (Tuesday) On the three trips today we escorted KITTYHAWKS on armed reconnaissance’s of the CAP BON PENINSULAR. The last operation was led by our “ACE” F/Lt. NEVILLE F. DUKE, D.S.O., D.F.C. and BAR, and it was fitting that when on returning he heard the Controller telling another formation “The show is off” — because our troops had reached CAP BON — he had completed 200 hours on his second operational tour. A really grand show, Neville, with 22 enemy aircraft destroyed!
12/05/43 (Wednesday) There were no operational trips for us today and advantage was taken of this opportunity to train several of our new pilots. Permission was granted for
personnel to visit TUNIS during the next three days and arrangements were made by the Adjutant for 50% of the airmen to go there tomorrow and the remainder on the following day. F/Lt. L.R.HOLT arrived on attachment from No. 25 M.R.S. in time to join in our victory celebrations. It was at 1945 hours that news was received of the final capitulation of the enemy forces in TUNISIA and of the capture of GENERAL VON ARNIM. Attached is a "write-up" of F/Lt. N.F. DUKE, DSO., DFC. and BAR which appeared in today’s issue of “TRIPOLI TIMES”.
13/05/43 (Thursday) Six of our aircraft were at Readiness from 0900 hours to mid-day today but were not sent off and the Squadron was then released for the rest of the day. Three of our lorries were filled with airmen who went on the visit to TUNIS.
14/05/43 (Friday) No operational flying again today, but we had the Squadron at Readiness for three hours in the afternoon. Another large party of airmen visited TUNIS today and, on return, they were agreed that it was the best place we have seen since ALEXANDRIA.
15/05/43 (Saturday) The only flying today was for training purposes. Our “A” Party received instruction, to move to SURMAN and it was decided that the party which had remained at BOU GOUBRINE should proceed there at first light tomorrow.
16/05/43 (Sunday) No operational flying but some training was continued today. "A" Party moved off from BOU GOUBRINE and made good progress, reaching the outskirts of MEDENINE before dinner.
17/05/43 (Monday) Destination of "A" Party was altered to BEN GARDANE NORTH L.G. and they arrived there at 1100 hours. No arrangements had been made regarding aircraft disposal areas and other units were occupying the best sites but our party parked in the Northeast corner as usual. There was no operational flying from HERGLA. Several pilots from the other squadrons in the Wing were invited to a party in our Pilots' Mess and it went off in the traditional 92 style. There was a pile of trousers and shirts in the Mess when our visitors had gone and we hope that none of them will suffer any effects from exposure!
18/05/43 (Tuesday) Sgt. F.E. BRISTER flew to BEN GARDANE with instructions for the “A” Party to move to CASTEL BENITO, within half-an-hour of his arrival, another message was received cancelling those instructions. Some more training was carried out at HERGLA.
19/05/43 (Wednesday) MAJOR MOODY, of No. 1 SAAF SQUADRON, called a meeting at WING to allocate dispersal areas for our aircraft. We were fortunate in not having to move our site which is nearest the sea. The landing ground was unserviceable after heavy rain last night.
BEN GARDANE
20/05/43 (Thursday) Our aircraft arrived at BEN GARDANE NORTH L.G. from HERGLA this morning but there was no operational flying. All personnel took advantage of wonderful weather to increase their number of sun-bathing hours.
21/05/43 (Friday) No operational flying. The main party left HERGLA early this morning and were within 20 miles of GABES when they parked for the night.
22/05/43 (Saturday) Two Sections of four aircraft were sent off this morning to carry out a convoy patrol but neither was able to locate the ships although they made a thorough search of the area. Our main party arrived in the afternoon and set up camp near the sea. Three new pilots reported to the Squadron on posting from WING TRAINING FLIGHT. They are PILOT OFFICERS McDERMOTT, FAKHRY and SAYLE.
23/05/43 (Sunday) We are sorry to lose F/O. D.L.G. TURVEY who left us today on posting as an instructor to the WING TRAINING FLIGHT. Our COMMANDING OFFICER, S/Ldr. P.H. HUMPHREYS was busy preparing to go to CAIRO tomorrow on course. There was no flying all day.
24/05/43 (Monday) No operational flying was carried out today and most of our pilots have gone to the DELTA on leave. F/Lt. E. SLY is in charge of the Squadron during the C.O.’s absence. F/O. HENDERSON joined us today on posting from M.E.C.G.S. BALLAH.
25/05/43 (Tuesday) There was no training or operational flying again today. The ADJUTANT, F/O. G.L. TRAVIS, has arranged a cricket competition amongst the Squadron and the first game is to be played tomorrow. A Squadron cricket team today beat a team from No. 59 R.S.U., but the SALVAGE UNIT proved much bettor at Soccer which they won by 4—1.
26/05/43 (Wednesday) In the morning there was some training carried out by our new pilots. In the cricket competition Maintenance Flight decisively beat Headquarters this afternoon. F/O. G.J. CORNISH was today posted to the Squadron as INTELLIGENCE OFFICER. He first joined us on 12th January, 1942, as a Code and Cypher Officer, but has been acting as INTELLIGENCE OFFICER since 27th September, 1942.
27/05/43 (Thursday) During this morning there was some practice flying by our new pilots. We congratulate F/O. J. RAWES on his promotion to FLIGHT LIEUTENANT but we are very sorry to learn that he is leaving us to become WING ENGINEER OFFICER. He has been with the Squadron since January, 1942, and under his supervision the serviceability of our aircraft has been higher than that of every other Squadron in the WESTERN DESERT. F/o. LONGSTAFF reported today on posting from No. 59 R.S.U. to take over F/Lt. RAWES’ duties. “A” Flight cricket team won decisively against “B” Flight in the competition.
28/05/43 (Friday) There was no flying today and Squadron personnel began, in earnest, training designed to toughen them for our next campaign. At night S/Ldr. PORTER, F/Lt. RAWES and CAPTAIN HEFFORD visited the Pilots’ Mess and celebrated nothing in particular but it was a very happy party.
29/05/43 (Saturday) In the cricket competition Maintenance beat “B” Flight today. There was no flying and, consequently, personnel continued to undergo toughening exercises which they appear to enjoy.
30/05/43 (Sunday) Five of our aircraft were flown away this morning for engine change and another six were received as replacement from No. 39 R.S.U. There was no other flying. Competition in the cricket matches is keen and today “A” Flight beat Headquarters by 84 to 51 runs. No arrangements have been made to fly our O.T.E. pilots to the DELTA and four of them are still with us. It is a scandal that pilots with such a splendid record as our F/Lt. NEVILLE DUKE, DSO., DFC. and BAR, should be kept hanging about in this way. P/O. J.H. PHILLIPS reported on posting from 31 A.S.P. to take over the duties of Equipment Officer.
31/05/43 (Monday) There was no flying today apart from an air test of one of our SPITFIRE IX’s. The total number of sorties for the month was 279 involving 382.25 operational hours and non-operational hours amounted to 115.20