427 Squadron Wartime Log - June 1944

1/6/44

Weather: Cloudy with slight rain during morning. Wind light south-easterly. Visibility good generally but moderate in rain.

The month started out with a bang, sixteen aircraft being detailed for operations. It looked as though it were going to be a big day but operations were scrubbed in late afternoon much to the disappointment of all. Little time was left for other flying to take place and anyway the weather was not what it might have been. The Squadron took advantage of the free night and it is believed that everyone enjoyed themselves.

2/6/44

Weather: Fair to cloudy, with westerly wind at ten to twenty miles per hour. Visibility good.

As the Squadron was not called upon for operations today and the weather was not too bad for local flying, a number of aircraft became airborne during the day and carried out an extensive flying training program consisting of; seven aircraft on H2S bombing of which one failed to complete the exercise due to DR compass becoming u/s; five aircraft on local flying, including acceptances and air tests.

At night, six aircraft were to take off on a night bombing exercise at the local bombing range but this was scrubbed on account of bad weather.

3/6/44

Weather: Cloudy with showers. Wind westerly at five to ten MPH. Visibility good.

Once again we received a false alarm in that we expected to send off fourteen aircraft on operations but these were scrubbed in late afternoon. We trust this will not happen again, not to mention what the armourers were thinking.

On the training side of our activities the following sorties were completed: one aircraft on cross-country, one on air-to-air firing, two on fighter affiliation, and three on local flying. A fairly good day considering that fourteen aircraft were tied up on expected operations.

4/6/44

Weather: Cloudy with rain during morning and early evening. Wins south to south-westerly at fifteen to twenty mph. Visibility generally good.

The Squadron was called upon for operations tonight and much to the approval of all concerned, they all became airborne. The target for tonight was CALAIS and fourteen aircraft were detailed and successfully took off.

The returning crews reported the weather over the target varying from 3/10th to 10/10th cloud below and above the aircraft. Thick haze with rain was also reported. Visibility ranged from poor to good. PFF marking was scattered but red target indicators were well concentrated. A large column of black smoke was seen rising at 0256 hours and a big explosion was reported at 0258 hours. Most crews reported ground defenses as negligible, but some reported heavy flak. No searchlights or enemy fighters were seen. All crews attempted photographs. Taking into account the bad weather conditions , it was considered a successful attack as the bombing was well concentrated around the red Target Indicators.

5/6/44

Weather: Cloudy with south-westerly wind at twenty to thirty mph. Visibilty over 20 milkes.

After putting up a good show last night the Squadron was right in there punching again today and when called upon for operations, came to the front with seventeen aircraft. This not only reflects the efficiency of the aircrews but also the wonderful job of work being done by the ground crews in maintaining a high level of serviceability.

The target for tonight was MERVILLE/FRANCEVILLE. Seventeen aircraft took off at approximately ten o'clock and seventeen returned safely.

The returning crews reported the weather over the target as 10/10th cloud with tops from 5,000 to 9,000 feet. Visibility good. First markers seen cascading were red Target Indicators at 0025 hours. Due to the cloud cover all crews bombed on the TIs that were reflected through the cloud. Four crews reported that they were unable to see any marking on the target and brought back their bombs as briefed. Results of bombing could not be assessed becausee of cloud cover although a number of crews reported reflections of bomb bursts through the cloud.

Results of bombing could not be assessed because of cloud cover although a number of crews reported reflection of bomb bursts through the cloud. Defences on target were negligible and no searchlights reported. A few ineffective searchlights were reported in the CHERBOURG area. No fighters seen. All crews reported photographs. Very busy day instead.

6/6/44

Weather:Fair at first becoming cloudy. Wind north-westerly at fifteen to twenty-five mph. Visibility over twenty miles.

The target for tonight was CONDE SUR NOIREAU. The returning crews reported the weather over the target as clear of cloud below 5,000 feet with 6/10th cloud above that height. Horizontal visibility fair to good. Red Target Indicators appeared to b well placed but greens were some distance off. Master Bomber reported as being somewhat indecisive in his instructions at beginning of attack but improved as attack developed and bombing generally seemed to be breaking on and around the markers indicated by him. Numerous fires reported in target area and considerable smoke and dust developed in later stages of attack. Ground defences on target reported as negligible and no searchlights or enemy fighters seen. All crews attempted photographs.

7/6/44

Weather: Cloudy with wind northerly at to fifteen mph. Visibility moderate at first improving to fifteen to twenty miles.

For the fourth night in succession was called upon for operations, the target being ACHERES. The Squadron was called upon for eleven aircraft and this number was easily met. Eleven aircraft took off and all returned safely with the exception of our aircraft "K" (LV. 987) piloted by CAN. R. 144492 W/O FOSTER, D. F.. This captain had successfully completed 24 operational trips prior to being reported missing and showed great possibilities of becoming an exceptionally good pilot.

The returning crews reported the weather over the target clear of cloud with some haze below 5000 feet and visibility as fair to good. Above 5000 feet there was 10/10th cloud. Markers were well concentrated and bombing generally was on and around. Master bomber proved very helpful and directed bombing skillfully. Flak over target was manageable but much light flak was being a hose piped in a loose barrage on the northwestern tip of PARIS. Fighter activity was seen on route both to and from the target but most aircraft seen going down were shot by light flak. All aircraft attempted photography.

Besides operations this date, flying training was carried out in the form of three cross-countries by newer crews on the squadron.

8/6/44

Weather: Rain at first becoming cloudy. Wind light at first becoming westerly at five to ten mph. Visibility ten to fifteen miles.

For the fifth night in succession the Squadron was called upon for operations, the target for tonight being MAYENNES. We were called upon for ten aircraft and this number was supplied with ease. Ten aircraft took off and successfully completed their mission and returned to this country.

The returning crews reported the weather over the target clear with some haze. 10/10 cloud above with base at 7,500 to 8,000 feet. All crews reported the target indicators and illuminating flares marking the village and marshaling yards visible to the eye. Most crews reported hearing the Master Bomber very clearly and were complementary about his handling of the bombing. A good concentration of bomb bursts was seen among the Target Indicators, numerous fires were seen in the marked out area and one very large explosion reported at about 0147 hours which gave off a huge sheet of orange red flame and a good volume of dense black smoke. All aircraft attempted photographs, which show ground route in and in the target area was ineffective.

No other flying was carried out by the Squadron this date due to most of the crews having operated a number of nights in a row and were taking full advantage of the opportunity to catch up on their rest.

9/6/44

Weather: Rain at first becoming cloudy. Wind light at first becoming westerly. Visibility poor becoming ten to fifteen miles.

A very bad day for flying today and a very good day for putting the house in order after the continuous operations carried out during the last week. A little time was given to ground instruction and only one aircraft became airborne during the day.

Three aircraft that bombed last night aircraft landed at Middleton St. George and returned to base in order for the crews to be become prepared for the forthcoming operations.

Everyone is keyed up these days and putting all their efforts into doing the best job possible to make the new front a huge success and to be able to return home sooner.

10/6/44

Weather: Cloudy with rain during the morning. Wind westerly at five to ten mph . Visibility good generally but poor in rain.

Overall the weather left much to be desired, the Squadron put out four aircraft on H. 2. S. Cross-Countries, giving the newer crews an opportunity to become familiar with this equipment for use on future operations.

Besides the flying training, the Squadron was called upon for operations today, the target VERSAILLES-MATELOT. Ten aircraft were detailed and ten took off and successfully completed their mission. The returning crews reported the weather over the target clear with fair to good visibility. P.F.F. were punctual and target was visually seen to be well marked. Master of Ceremonies was heard by the majority of the crews who reported clear and decisive directions. Bombing generally was very accurate, the designated markers being well covered. Explosions in target area reported at 0042, 0043, 0045 and 0056 hours. As the attack developed smoke and dust obscured ground detail and enveloped markers. Ground defenses were spasmodic, heavy flak slight to moderate to 8,000 feet and light flak meager. No searchlights were seen in target area. Fighter activity was greatest in PARIS Area. All crews attempted photographs.

A message of goodwill and good luck from the General commanding the invasion of enemy-occupied territory which opened on June 6, 1944 was distributed to all Squadron personnel.

CAN. R189708 SFT(sic) Vallieres, S. K. received injuries due to a motorcycle accident and will be laid up for a few days.

11/6/44

Weather: Mainly fair with slight rain during morning. Wind south-easterly veering westerly at five to ten mph. Visibility good generally but moderate in rain.

It looked as though the Squadron would be again on operations today as fourteen aircraft were detailed and prepared, but word came through in the late afternoon that the effort was scrubbed.

Only two aircraft became airborne and these were employed on air-to-air firing. With the possibility of day operations this form of training is highly practicable and we hope, beneficial to the air gunners.

A large number of A. T. C. boys visited the squadron today and were handed over to the Gunnery Section who gave the "in" and " outs" of the turrets and their manipulation.

A dance was held in the Sergeants' mess and was well attended.

W/O CLIBBERY, Captain of "V" VICTOR is very depressed at the thought of the previous night. On returning to base, he made several attempts to land but overshot due to bad weather conditions. A pilot of "429" Squadron asked him to make way for a pilot that could land an aircraft. Clippery did and the result was: One 429 aircraft carried out a ditching exercise in the local creek at the end of the runway.

The pilots were employed on a real fatiguing job this morning instead of their usual physical training. The job consisted of removing small stones, ammunition, links and a few rounds of .303 from the runway.

12/6/44

Weather: Fair to cloudy with good visibility. Strong westerly winds in middle of the day.

The Squadron was called upon for operation today and fifteen aircraft were detailed. The target for the night was ARRAS. All aircraft became airborne and twelve successfully reached the target and return, the remaining three have not been heard of since and had been presumed missing.
They were "Y" Yorker piloted by J.16190 F/O J.D.L. FULTON, a newcomer to the Squadron who was doing his second tour and J.27626 F/O W.W. PROUDFOOT who had successfully completed four previous sorties, and F/O PEARSON.

The returning crews reported the weather conditions over the target as quite good with slight haze. P.F.F. was fairly scattered and a few crews bombed the red T.I.s in the early stages of attack were instructed to overshoot by two seconds. The remainder bombed concentration of either yellow or green T.I.s Interference caused about half of the crews to miss instructions by the Master Bomber. Small fires were noted in target area and a large building in the center of town was seen burning. Six explosions, all reddish and orange in color were seen in the target area between 0141 and 0149 hours. Flak was slight over the target and no searchlights were reported. Fighter activity was very intense before and at the target, fighter interception continued to the coast on the route out. All crews attempted photographs.

13/6/44

Weather: Fair to cloudy with a slight rain in morning. Visibility good but moderate to poor in rain.

No operations were scheduled for this date so an intensive training program was carried out. Three aircraft took off on air-to-air firing, one on local flying, four on H2S cross-countries and three took part in an night bombing practice.

It was learned today that J.24504 F/O M.S. STRANGE landed at WOODBRIDGE last night after being badly shot up. His rear gunner Sgt. SULLIVAN was badly wounded in an encounter with an enemy aircraft but in spite of this he remained at his post after the engagement until the aircraft safely crossed the coast of France.

J.22042 F/O G.A. WELDON and his crew were screened today as they had completed 35 sorties including last night's operations. This crew has set an example to all members off the Squadron that will not be easy to match.

Night fighter affiliation was carried out today and proved very successful. The gunners enjoyed the practice and believes it will be very beneficial on coming operations. This is the first time this has been tried on this Squadron but we expect more of it in the future.

R148367 W/O HERRING, C.G.M., Navigator in F/L SHANNON's crew took himself a wife today in the local village of BEDALE. The lucky bride was a member off the W.A.A.Fs. being employed in our Station Sick Quarters.

14/6/44

Weather: Fair to cloudy with showers of rain. Good visibility. Moderate to strong West to North-Westerly winds.

Today marked a great turning point in the life of the Squadron. At nine o'clock in the morning the whole Squadron was out on parade to bid adieu to our Commanding Officer , W/C R.S. Turnbull, DFC, AFC, DFM, who on completion of his second tour is returning to Canada for a spot of leave. W/C TURNBULL came to us in October 1943 from 1659 Con. Unit where he was Commanding Officer. Under his guidance the Squadron has always held a high place in Group activities, and he will be missed by all ranks. W/C G.J. Cribb replaced W/C Turnbull.

After the short parade, everyone got down to business and local flying consisted of air-to-air firing practice, two aircraft being employed. One aircraft took part in an H2S bombing exercise and six on local flying consisting of acceptances, air tests and circuits and landings.

The main activity for the day was operations. The Squadron was called upon for fourteen aircraft to bomb CAMBRAI. All aircraft took off and successfully bombed the target and returned to this country. The weather over the target varied from clear to 10/10 cloud, bases from 7,000 to 9,000 feet and tops up to 11,000 feet. Visibility varied from poor to very good. PFF marking at opening of attack was very good, but backers up were scattered, especially yellow Target Indicators. Master Bomber was heard by most crews and was good at first but as attack develop seemed to become confused and indecisive, changing his instructions repeatedly from his comments. Bombing was scattered although crews arriving at opening of attack report accurate bombing. Explosions were seen at 0057 hours and believed to be a petrol dump. Ground defenses were slight, no searchlights. Few fighters that were seen, were in and around the target area. All crews attempted photographs.

15/6/44

Weather: By to fair becoming cloudy with occasional slight showers. Good Visibility.

No Physical Training this morning as most personnel were working late on last night operations. The call went out at noon for the operational types to be ready for operations again today, and aircrews reported to their sections after lunch.

Thirteen aircraft were detailed to bomb BOULOGNE. All aircraft took off and successfully completed their mission. Weather over the target was 4 to 9/10ths cloud, tops at 4 to 12,000 Feet. Visibility good. PFF marking was accurate although several crews had to orbit the target. Majority of the bombing was accurately placed on and around the markers, but numerous sticks were seen to burst as far as three miles away. A particularly large explosion was seen at 2251 hours with a red flash and other smaller ones reported with red flashes. Heavy flak was slight to intense up to 18,000 feet and light flak slight up to 12,000 ft.. No searchlights or enemy aircraft reported. All crews attempted photographs.

This operation marked a new era in the life of the Squadron as our bombers took off in daylight returning at dusk. A fighter escort was provided our bombers and seem to be quite effective as all crews returned safely, reporting very little activity.

No flying training carried out this date, but a great deal of ground instruction was given to new gunners and Flight Engineers.

16/6/44

Weather: Fair to cloudy with very occasional slight showers. Good visibility.

For the third night in a row, the Squadron was called upon to provide seventeen aircraft for operations. This figure was met easily and everyone did their utmost to show SAUTRECOURT what the "LION" Squadron could really do. Weather over the target was 6 to 10/10ths cloud with tops at 5,000 to 10,000 feet. Visibility was generally good above cloud but poor vertically though cloud that was not very thick. Target Indicators were somewhat late going down though fairly well concentrated, some crews however described them as being rather scattered. Results generally were not observed due to prevailing weather conditions but the flash of bursting bombs could be seen dimly reflected through cloud close to the markers. Ground defenses were virtually nil with a few searchlights which were ineffective. No enemy aircraft were seen in the target area.

Very little other flying took place due to operations, however, four non-operational sorties consisting of acceptances checks, air tests, etc., were completed.

134991 F/L CORY, W.A. of the RAF, a Captain in the Squadron, completed his 33rd sortie on today's operation and was screened with all his crew, having completed his tour without an early return.

Gunners not employed on operations were given instruction on harmonization and the "ins" and "outs" of the oxygen system.

17/6/44

Weather: Fair. Good visibility.

Things looked pretty busy this morning as aircraft were being warmed up and air tested after having been through inspections and acceptances. One crew was detailed for an H2S cross-country which was successfully completed.

The Squadron was called upon for operations again tonight, the target being OISEMONTE/NEUVILLE AU BOIS. Eleven aircraft were scheduled and eleven took off and ten successfully completed their mission. There was 10/10ths cloud over the target, tops at 5 to 8,000 feet and good visibility. All crews bombed on glow of red or yellow TIs seen through cloud. Master Bomber was jammed, but most crews received instructions for aiming. Results of bombing not generally observed due to clouds but explosions reported in target area,. Heavy and light flak was slight, to neglible over the target. Fighter opposition was slight, one aircraft reported two combats, one over target, one en route out, 8 minutes after bombing. Searchlights were seen but proved ineffective. All crews attempted photographs.

18/6/44

Weather: Fair to cloudy.

The Squadron was called upon to operate again tonight and a maximum effort of eighteen aircraft was prepared. Everything was in tip-top shape and everyone raring to go but word was received at 21:40 hours that ops were scrubbed due to weather conditions.

Flying training consisted of one aircraft being employed on air-to-air firing. A larger amount of flying would've taken place but for the aircraft being bombed up. The newer crews had to be content with ground instruction this date. All sections reported a great deal of this form of training.

19/6/44

Weather: Cloudy at first becoming fine. Wind northerly at ten to fifteen mph. Visibility moderate, becoming good.

Disappointment reigned supreme again today for we were called upon to supply eighteen aircraft for operations which were scrubbed immediately (after?) briefing. It is hoped that the next time we are detailed the operation will not be scrubbed as it is rumored that the mess stewards are breaking down under the strain of last minute rushes.

During the afternoon four cross-countries were completed with the remaining aircraft thus giving the new boys a chance to become operational. By the way the new crews are pouring in these days it looks more like an OTU than an operational squadron.

The Bomb Aimers had a little practice on the VGO today, a good idea seeing as Day Operations seem to be a coming reality rather than a "pipe dream". We expect to see a few FWs biting the dust in the near future due to the mean eye of one of our noble Bombardiers |(sic).

20/6/44

Weather: Fine at first becoming cloudy. Wind northerly at ten to fifteen mph. Visibility moderate.

The Squadron was not called upon for operations so the armourers got busy and de-bombed the kites in order for an intensive training program to take place. The operational types were given a well earned rest while the newer chaps who may have been looking on for the last week earned their next pay.

The training program consisted of a few aircraft on H2S cross-country and fighter affiliation combined, one aircraft on straight H2S cross-country and two other aircraft on fighter affiliation. A few circuits and bumps were also carried out while the servicing crews kept their fingers crossed after working so hard to get the aircraft serviceable for operations.

Word was received today that the raid on ARRAS on June 14th, was a big success although at the time it was not considered much a good "DO". The bombers accomplished their mission by holding up enemy tank units and inflicting heavy losses.

21/6/44

Weather: Drizzle at first becoming fair. Wind northerly at ten to fifteen mph. Visibility moderate.

Today both seemed and was the longest day in the year. At one o'clock in the morning all operational types were herded from their beds, only to be pushed back an hour later, the operation not taking place. Then at 1300 hours, operations came through for a daylight takeoff at three. The boys finally got off the ground at five o'clock, the target being OISEMONTE/NEUVILLE AU BOIS for the second time in a row. Seventeen aircraft took part in the operation and they all reached the target and returned to base safely. Ten aircraft returned without attacking primary because the crew either saw no marking or Master Bomber ordered them to return without attacking. The cloud over the target was 9 to 10/10ths with tops from 3,000 to 7, 000 feet. No markers were seen and majority of crews heard the Master Bomber who ordered an orbit at approximately zero hour but a few seconds afterwards instructed crews to cease bombing. Ground defenses were negligible and no enemy fighters were seen. This raid was considered a wasted effort by most crews.

22/6/44

Weather: Fair at first, becoming cloudy. Wind north easterly at 10 to 15 mph. Visibility mainly good.

For a while today it looked as though we would be sending another seventeen aircraft out on operations but as this was scrubbed, attention was diverted to a bit of flying training.

The gunners had a little practice fighter affiliation, two aircraft were employed on H2S cross-country, doing fighter affiliation on their return. Other aircraft did local flying consisting of circuits and landings, air tests, and acceptances. Nothing much to report today.

23/6/44

Weather: Mainly cloudy with north easterly wind at ten to fifteen MPH. Visibility moderate to good.

Seventeen aircraft detailed for operations today but were scrubbed in the early afternoon due to weather conditions therefore Pay Parade was the main interest of the day. Many moans and groans were heard as the boys felt the first results of buying a War Bond.

P/O" Tiny" Merritt returned from Hospital and it is learned that he will be homeward bound in a few days as he will be unfit for flying duties for some time yet.

Despite weather conditions, two aircraft took off on local cross-countries in the early afternoon. Very little flying activity today.

24/6/44

Weather: Mainly fine with wind light south easterly, becoming westerly at 10 to 15 mph. Visibility good.

Today marked a big day for flying carried out. To begin with, two aircraft took part in an H2S cross-country exercise and dropped bombs on their return. Four aircraft were employed on practice bombing and fighter affiliation, one on straight practice bombing, and two on air-to-air firing.

Besides this, the Squadron was detailed for operations this date and easily supplied another record number of eighteen aircraft, the target being BONNETOT. The weather over the target was clear of cloud and visibility was very good. Red TIs appeared accurately placed but as attack developed these were obscured by dust and smoke. Yellow TIs dropped to starboard of target attracted some bombing but Master Bomber instructed crews to ignore these and main weight of bombs fell in target areas with a tendency to overshoot. Master Bomber was very clear and complimented Main Force on accuracy of bombing. Defences in target area were negligible and no enemy aircraft were seen. One of our bombers returned early, the other 17 successfully completing their missions and returning to this country. Seeing a few friendly fighters in the background has its moral effects as well as its superb defensive qualities.

This was another daylight "do" but although, we were amazed at being called upon for this type of operation at first, it is rapidly becoming popular with the boys.

25/6/44

Weather: Mainly fair with South Westerly wind at 5 to 10 mph. Visibility good.

After yesterday afternoon's operations, things were humming again in the wee hours of the morning as we were called upon for immediate operations against GORENFLOS. Crews were awakened from their well deserved sleep at the horrible hour of three o'clock in the morning. Operational meals were served at 3:30 hours and briefing was at 4:00 hours. Although the aircraft did not leave the deck until 06:25 hours, this marked two operations in 12 hours, a wonderful show on the part of all. The Squadron came through again with flying colors and eighteen aircraft soared into the sky. It was disappointing to see one of the boys return early but it was unavoidable due to a technical failure, the Constant Speed Unit on the Outer Starboard Engine became unserviceable and the aircraft could not gain height. However, the other seventeen made the grade and after successfully pranging their objective, returned to base.

The weather over the target was clear with good visibility. First crews received orders from the Master Bomber to prepare for instrument bombing, but by the time they were ready to make bombing run, red TIs were accurately placed in the target area. Visual observations and comments from Master Bomber indicated that bombing was well concentrated within the Target Area, which became obscured by smoke and dust as attack develop. All crews were of the opinion that the attack was successful, this was also borne out by the Master Bomber's comments. Heavy flak over target reported as nil to slight and bursting 11/13,000 feet. Ground defenses over ABBEYVILLE OISEMONT area were active. No enemy fighters seen. All aircraft attempted photographs.

26/6/44

Weather: Fair at first. Rain during morning becoming fair later. Visibility good at first becoming a moderate to good. Wind southeasterly and light.

Today eighteen crews were scheduled for operations and an operational meal was served at 0900 hours in the morning. From then on during the day operations were scrubbed for an hour or two until finally canceled, but crews had to stand-by. No aircraft became airborne today but everyone was working hard nevertheless just in case. This could definitely not be called a rest.

27/6/44

Weather: Rain at first becoming fine to fair. Visibility good. Wind south westerly at 5 to 15 mph.

The Squadron was again called for operations first thing today. Briefing was at 0930 hours and the crews got as far as to their aircraft before the "do" was put off and a standby declared. Stand-by it(sic|) was because midnight struck ending the day with no operations.

At noon we had a real "Canadian" hail storm, bags of lightning and thunder accompanied by intense rain and hail as large as marbles. This cleared up as fast as it came through and the sun was shining before dusk. "What a country", say the "Canucks ".

The aircrew went to bed expecting an early call at any moment.

28/6/44

Weather: Showery at first becoming fine to fair. Visibility good. Wind south westerly at 15 to 20 mph.

At long last we got off the ground at thirty minutes past midnight. Eighteen aircraft were detailed and took off to bomb WIZERNES. Seventeen aircraft completed the mission and returned to base safely, the eighteenth returning due to a technical failure, the starboard outer throttle lever being unserviceable, rendering the engine uncontrollable. Weather over the target was good. Visibility good and PFF was four minutes late. Three red TI markers were concentrated, apparently in target area, and green TI backers up fell in this concentration late in the attack. Bombing appeared to be fairly accurate. Ground defenses of target varied from nil to slight, inaccurate heavy flak bursting from 12/14,000 feet and slight light flak later in the attack. CALAIS defenses were inactive. No enemy fighters seen. All crews attempted photographs.

Today really was a day for record-breaking on the Squadron. For the first time in our history the crews took off twice during the same day. To really top things off, twenty aircraft were detailed and became airborne to attack METZ. Bad luck reigned supreme though, and besides losing one of our best operational crews, name, R1444492 W/O II King A.J. who had completed 31 trips with us, three aircraft returned early, two due to technical failures. The sixteen aircraft attacking the target reported no cloud, visibility good. PFF was good with the red TIs well concentrated. The Master Bomber was heard clearly and most crews bombed on his instructions. Enemy fighters were on the job and three aircraft reported attacks while others reported numerous fighter flares along the track. Considered a successful attack, but a little too long for such a bright moonlight night. WHAT A DAY!!!

29/6/44

Weather: Fine at first. Thundery showers during the late evening. Visibility moderate. Wind light and southerly.

As the aircraft from last night's operation returned in the early morning and the ones that landed away were still coming in by noon, everyone was happy that we were not going to operate today. Most of the crews took the chance to catch up on badly needed and well-deserved rest. One of the newer crews was employed on circuits and bumps during the afternoon and this was our total flying effort for the day. A number of new gunners were taken to the local firing range and given instruction on ground firing.

In the late evening news was received that we were scheduled for operations next morning so Section Leaders and Flight Commanders were busy putting the boys to bed early and preparing the necessary "Gen" for an early effort. The armourers were also busy winching the bombs off as they had been doing so frequently of late.

30/6/44

Weather: Fog morning and night, occasional thundery showers during afternoon. Visibility poor at first becoming good. Wind calm becoming light, northerly.

Although we were scheduled for an early do this morning, nothing came of it and word kept coming through to stand by for immediate call. This continued all through the day despite poor weather conditions and it was not until about 1915 hours that definite "Gen" came through canceling all operations for today. Needless to say, the bar stewards at both Messes earned their pay tonight and the boys were given a chance to spend some of the money received a week last Friday.

Flying training has badly suffered the last few weeks due to the Squadron being on stand-by all the time, but it is hoped that we shall not be tied up on stand-bys to such a great extent in order that all our flying may be devoted wholly to operational or training flying. The past month has set new standards of achievement and has been the greatest in the Squadron's history. Unsurpassed co-operation, enthusiasm and keenness from all members have made it so. In short, this clearly demonstrates what a Democracy can do in a knockdown and drag-out fight, and the "LIONS" are proud of the part they have played.

HONOURS AND AWARDS

J.21443 A/S/L F.N. Murray -Awarded the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS vide the London Gazette No. 36525 dated 19.5.44
J.22042 F/O G. A. Weldon - Awarded the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS vide the London Gazette No. 36550 dated 2.6.44

COMMISSIONS

176363 P/O S. Welch. Appointed to a commission w.e.f. 17.4.44
176677 P/O W. J. Brett. Appointed to the Commission w.e.f. 5.4.44

POSTINGS

15880 F/O R. J. Hannaford posted from No. 61 Base w.e.f. 6. 6. 44
173861 P/O J. Quinn posted to No. 80 O.T.U. w.e.f. 17.6.44
J. 14908 F/O D.T. Hepburn posted to No. 63 Base w.e.f. 26. 5. 44
J. 19532 P/O L. W. Webb posted from No. 63 Base w.e.f. 30. 5. 44
J. 7992 F/L J. E. Durocher posted to No. 166 C.U. w.e.f. 8.6.44
C. 175 W/C E. M. Mitchell posted from No. 61 Base w.e.f. 6. 6. 44
J. 19691 P/O A. W. Morris posted from No. 61 Base w. e. f. 6. 6. 44
J. 17930 F/O R. Dorland Posted from No. 61 Base w. e. f. 6. 6. 44
J. 28603 F/O C. A. Moss posted from no. 61 Base w. e. f. 6. 6. 44
J. 28796 F/O J. D. Siddall Posted from No. 61 Base w. e. f. 12. 6. 44
J. 35747 F/O J. F. Bester posted from 61 Base w. e. f. 6. 6. 44