April 1943

NEWMARKET

1.4.43
Training.
A strong gale restricted flying and therefore only air tests were carried out. Various lectures were given during the afternoon, including a lecture by F/L. Scollay, the Navigation Officer, on the control of landing and sundry points of Navigation.
Operations. Nil.

2.4.43
Training.
As the weather was fine it was possible to carry out the following training, Air Tests, Formation and Fighter Affiliation, Cross Countries and Practice Bombing.
Operations. Nil.

3.4.43
Training.
The weather was fine once again and training included fighter Affiliation, Cross Countries and four night Cross Countries. During the afternoon an escape exercise was carried out by all aircrew
Operations. Nil.

4.4.43
Training.
During the morning Cross Countries, Fighter Affiliation and Bombing Practice was carried out. We then prepared for night operations.
Operations. ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT KIEL.
Ten aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets, with incendiaries of 30 lb. and 4 lb. Four of the aircraft however returned early owing to engine trouble and one of the aircraft failed to take-off. The remaining five aircraft successfully bombed the target, although it was impossible to accurately assess results owing to heavy cloud, but nevertheless red glows were seen silhouetted against the clouds. Both light and heavy A.A. Fire was encountered, with searchlights co-operating. Some enemy aircraft were seen, but no combats took place. There was ten tenths cloud in the target area and visibility was not very good. Navigation was very good.

5.4.43
Training.
The weather dawned fine again today, and it was possible to carry out a good deal of training. This consisted of Height & Load Tests, Formation Flying and Practice Bombing and Air Tests.
Operations. MINING IN THE GIRONDE ESTUARY.
Two aircraft were required to carry out this operation with Mines of 1500 lbs. The operation was cancelled however owing to bad weather.

6.4.43
Training.
The days training consisted of Night Flying training, Photography, Fighter Affiliation, Bombing and two Night Cross Countries.
Operations. MINING IN THE GIRONDE ESTUARY.
Two aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1500 lbs. Both aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area, and the majority of the parachutes were seen to open. No A.A. Fire, Searchlights or Enemy Aircraft were encountered. The weather was clear in the target area, with good visibility. Navigation was very good.

7.4.43
Training.
The weather was very bad, and flying was impossible. Ground training and Lectures were therefore carried out.
Operations. Nil.

8.4.43
Training.
The weather was fine and the following training was carried out, Practice Bombing, Cross Countries and Fighter Affiliation. During the afternoon we made preparations for Night Operations.
Operations. ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT DUISBURG.
Nine aircraft were detailed to carry out the above attacks, with bombs of 1000 lb. and incendiaries of 30 lb. and 4 lb. Four of the aircraft however were forced to return early owing to severe icing conditions, which prevented the aircraft from gaining height. Four of the remaining aircraft successfully bombed the target through cloud. Large fires were seen glowing below the clouds. A fair amount of heavy predicted A.A.Fire was encountered, some enemy aircraft were seen, but no combats took place. The weather was 10/10ths cloud, with electrical storms, rain and severe icing. Which prevented this operation from being a complete success. Navigation was very good. Stirling III, BK770, captained by W/O Walsh, was returning to base at 01.10 hours a message was received from him, but this was the last heard of the aircraft until it was reported to have crashed at Bressingham, Norfolk, soon after this time. The aircraft exploded on impact and burnt out, and unfortunately the whole of the crew were killed.
OPERATIONS. MINING IN THE GIRONDE ESTUARY.
One aircraft was detailed to carry this operation, with Mines of 1500lb. All of the Mines were successfully dropped in the allotted area, and four of the parachutes were seen to open. No A.A. Fire, searchlights or enemy aircraft were encountered. There was no cloud, but some haze was prevalent in the mining area. Navigation was excellent.

9.4.43
Training.
During the morning Fighter Affiliation, Cross Countries, Bombing Training and Air Tests were carried out. The Squadron was stood during the afternoon.
OPERATIONS. NIL.

10.4.43
Reasonable weather and crews were rested, so all aircraft were flown on Air Tests during which compasses were tested, Air Firing was also carried out.
OPERATIONS. ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT FRANKFURT.
Twelve aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with bombs of 1000lb and incendiaries of 30lb and 4lb. Three aircraft were forced to return early as they failed to maintain height. Eight of the remaining aircraft successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. It was not possible to see the target owing to thick cloud, a large red glow was nevertheless seen. Both light and heavy A.Afire co-operating with searchlights was encountered, although they were ineffective. Several enemy aircraft were seen and two short combats took place. There was 10/10ths cloud in the target area, but it was clear and dark above our aircraft. Navigations was excellent. Stirling III, BF455 captained by F/Sgt. Rothschild was hit over the target by A.A.Fire and also chased by enemy Fighters. This caused him to run short of Petrol over the English Channel on the way home, and he eventually crash landed in the sea, 3 miles off Shoreham. The wireless procedure had been perfect, and Spitfires escorted it over the French coast, and a Walrus Flying Boat was waiting for it to crash land. Dingy drill was perfect and all the crew got in safely after an immaculate landing – the Stirling floating for 25 minutes. The final scene was enacted in the Channel as the Walrus collided with the Dinghy and dropped all the crew in the sea. No Ill-effects except for Sgt. Grainger, the Flight Engineer, who suffered from shock. Stirling III BF456 captained by Sgt. Webb failed to return.
OPERATIONS MINING OFF THE FRISIAN ISLANDS
Two aircraft were detailed to carry out this operation with mines of 1500 lbs, which were successfully dropped in the allotted area. Ten tenths cloud was encountered, but visibility was moderate. Navigations was good.

11.4.43
Training.
No training was carried out during the morning as the crews were tired after last night’s operations. During the afternoon height and load tests and air test were carried out. Two crews were required to carry out an Air/Sea Rescue Search and the following were detailed but failed ti find anything of importance.
2.10
P/O. Hamer in Stirling Mk.I R9200
2.10
Sgt. Lewis in Stirling Mk. III EF340
Operations NIL

12.4.43
Training.
The weather was fine, and the following training was carried out, Air Tests, Practice Bombing and Air Firing in the Wash.
5.30
Sgt. Halliburton in Stirling Mk.III BF398 carried out an Air/Sea Rescue Search, but unfortunately did not find anything.
Operations NIL

13.4.43.
Training.
A large raining programme was prepared for today, and the following was carried out, Air Tests height and Load Tests, Air Firing, Cross Countries (Day) and four Cross Countries (Night).
Operations. NIL.

14.4.43
Training
The weather was unfit for flying until late afternoon, and the following training was then carried out, Air Tests, Height and Load Tests, Air Firing and one cross country flight.
Operations. ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT STUTTGART
Eleven aircraft were detailed to attack the above target with incendiary bombs of 30 lb and 4 lb. One aircraft returned early as the controls were faulty. None of the remaining aircraft successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. Large fires were seen, together with a great deal of black smoke. There was a moderate amount of heavy A.A. Fire encountered on the way to the target, but very little in the target area. A few searchlights were seen, but they were ineffective. Some enemy aircraft were seen and short combats took place, but our aircraft were not damaged. It was very clear over the target, as there was a bright moon, and visibility was good in spite of slight ground haze. Navigation was very good. Stirling Mark III BF513 captained by P/O. D.J. McCaskill failed to return.

15.4.43
Training.
Little training was done as crews were resting after last night’s work. Air tests were carried out however
Operations. MINE LAYING IN THE GIRONDE ESTUARY
One aircraft was detailed to carry out this operation with Mines of 1500 lbs. All the mines were successfully dropped in the allotted area, although have prevented the parachutes being seen to open. No A.A. Fire, Searchlights or enemy aircraft were encountered. The weather was good except for a sea haze. Navigation was very good.

16.4.43
Training
Air Tests and Night flying training were carried out in preparation for night operations.
Operations ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT LUDWIGSHAVEN
Eleven aircraft were detailed to carry out the above attack, with bombs of 2000 lb, 1000 lb and incendiaries of 30 lb and 4 lb. Seven of the aircraft successfully attacked the target. Large fires and one big explosion were seen. Two aircraft returned early owing to engine trouble. Both heavy and light A.A. Fire was encountered co-operation with searchlights. Two of our aircraft were hit and the Navigator of one was hit in the leg. Several enemy aircraft were seen, but no combats took place. The weather was good on the route, but considerable haze was experienced at the target. Navigations was very good. Stirling Mark III BK.664 captained by F/Lt. D.C.Lowe, which experienced some very accurate A.A. Fire whilst overt the target, found on landing, that this throttle controls were jammed open, he was lucky enough to be able to land, but unfortunately he crashed into a semi built hanger on the aerodrome. The aircraft was an absolute wreck, but all the crew got away safely, although not without injuries. Stirling Mark III W 7469 captained by F/Sgt. K.F. Debenham and Stirling Mark I BF451 captained by P/O K.H.G. Groves failed to return.

17.4.43
Training.
The crews were resting after their previous operations for three nights running, so after the usual air tests they were stood down.
Operations. NIL

18.4.43
Training
Weather conditions were ideal and large scale training was carried out, this included air tests, Practice bombing, height and load tests, day cross countries and two night cross countries.
Operations NIL

19.4.43
Training
After the usual air tests we prepared for night operations, with the exception of three new crews who carried out night cross country flights.
Operations. ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT TURIN.
Nine aircraft were required for this operation, but it was cancelled during the afternoon.

20.4.443
Training.
During the morning Air Firing, Practice Bombing, Air Tests Height & Load Tests and night Flying Training was carried out. One night Cross Country flight was carried out by a new crew.
Operations. ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT ROSTOCK.
Nine aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with bombs of 1000 lb and incendiaries of 30 lb and 4 lb. Eight of the aircraft successfully attacked the target area. Some very large scale fires were seen but the attack was spoilt by a smoke screen which partly obscured the target. A.A.Fire was mainly confined to light tracer which was ineffective. Stirling Mk.III BF.518 captained by Sgt. Dalzell, collided with a Lancaster aircraft after leaving the target, and fortunately only slight damage was caused to the rudder and fin. After this hazardous experience he returned to base and made a perfect landing. Some enemy aircraft were seen in the target area, but no combats took place. The weather was very good and visibility was excellent. Navigation was very good. Stirling Mk.III, captained by P/O A.G. Tolley, failed to return.

21.4.43
Training.
During the morning two Cross Country flights, Practice bombing and Air Tests were carried out. All crews were stood down after lunch.
Operations. Nil.

22.4.43
Training.
During the day only local flying was possible, this included Air Tests and Height & Load Tests . Four night Cross Countries were carried out.
Operations. MINE LAYING IN THE GIRONDE ESTUARY.
Eight aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation, with Mines of 1500 lbs. All of these aircraft successfully dropped their Mines in the allotted area, and the majority of the parachutes were seen to open. Two A.A. ships were in the mining area and light & heavy A.A.Fire co-operation with searchlights was encountered, but it was inaccurate. No enemy aircraft were seen. Eight tenths cloud was prevalent in the mining area, and patches of cloud provided cover for the aircraft. Navigation was excellent.

23.4.43
Training.
Weather conditions prevented flying and ground training was carried out. Lectures were given including one by the Medical Officer on First Aid in the air, and one by F/Lt. Scollay, the Navigation Officer on “Navigation, Its aids and Errors”. They were thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.
Operations. Nil.

24.4.43
Training.
During the morning training was carried out on a large scale, this included Fighter Affiliation, Air Firing in the Wash, Height & Load Tests and Air Test. During the afternoon we made preparations for night operations.
Operations. ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT DUSSELDORF.
Nine aircraft were required for the above operation, but it was unfortunately cancelled during late afternoon.

25.4.43
Training.
During the morning Height & Load Tests, Air Tests and Cross Countries were carried out. The afternoon was taken up with Defence Lectures and anti-gas films. It was hoped to fly night Cross Countries, but these had to be cancelled owing to severe winds.
Operations. Nil

26.4.43
Training.
A wind of gale force kept all aircraft on the ground during the morning, and all air crews carried out ground training. In the afternoon Air Tests and night Flying Tests were carried out in preparation for night operations.
Operations. ATTACK AGAINST TARGETS AT DUISBURG.
Eight aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with bombs of 1000 lb. and incendiaries of 30 lb. and 4 lb. One aircraft however failed to take-off as the pilot was sick. And two aircraft returned early. The remaining five aircraft successfully dropped their bombs in the target area, which was a mass of flames. Large concentrated fires being seen which were spreading. Very heavy A.A.Fire was experienced in the target area, which was mainly predicted and co-operation with cones of searchlights. Some enemy aircraft were seen and one combat took place. The weather was very good in the target area, but visibility was impaired by haze caused by the large fires. Navigation was very good. Stirling Mk.III BF517, captained by F/O P.J. Buck, was attacked by an unseen fighter when about 30 miles North of the target. The rudder and tail of the aircraft was damaged, and the rear gunner was mortally wounded. The fighter was evaded and by jettisoning all moveable objects height was maintained and the aircraft returned to base where a perfect crash landing was made. Besides the rear gunner who lost his like, minor injuries were also received by two other members of the crew.

27.4.43
Training.
Doubtful weather held up air tests during the morning, but leter in the day it was possible to carry out fighter affiliation, height and load tests and night flying training.
Operations. MINING OFF THE FRISIAN ISLANDS.
Five aircraft were detailed to caryr out the above operations, with mines of 1500 lb. One of these returned early owing to engine trouble and the remainder successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area, and the parachutes were seen to open. No enemy aircraft, A.A. fire or searchlights were encountered. There was heavy cloud and occasional rain storms in the mining area although visibility was good, except for haze. Navigation was excellent.

28.4.43
Training.
During the morning, cross countries, height and load tests and air tests were carried out. During the afternoon we were busy preparing for night operations.
Operations MINING IN KIEL BAY.
Eight aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1500 lbs. One of these aircraft returned early owing to its compass being faulty and four failed to return. The remaining three aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area and the parachutes were seen to open. A.A. fire co-operating with searchlights was encountered which is believed to have come from an A.A. ship in the mining area. No enemy aircraft were seen. Visibility was fairly good, with scattered cloud in the mining area. Navigation was very good. Stirlings Mk.1 R9290, Sgt. A. Lewis, W.7513 – Sgt. K. Halliburton, BF.467 – P/O D. Thompson, <k.III BK664 – P/O. D.V. Hamer, failed to return.

29.4.43
Training.
Aircrew were in bed during the morning, resting after last night’s operations. In the afternoon air tests were carried out on a small scale. F/Lt. Manson, the Bombing Leader, gave a lecture to all air bombers on the Mark XIV Bomb Sight.
Operations NIL.

30.4.43
Training.
Weather was very bad and this prevented flying. Ground training and lectures were therefore carried out. These included a talk on tactics by Sqdn. Fowler, which eventually changed to a full discussion by all crews.
Operations NIL

OUTSTANDING EVENTS
Operations have once again been restricted, owing to weather conditions. Raids have included attacks against targets in Germany and occupied France. Mine-laying has also been carried out, off the Frisian Islands, in the Gironde Estuary and in Kiel Bay. From these operations, nine crews have failed to return and one crew was killed. F/Sgt. Rothschild crash landed in the Sea, on the 11th April 1943 whilst returning from Operations, but fortunately all of the crew were picked up by a Walrus Flying boat. On the 20th April 1943 Sgt. Dalzell, during an attack against Rostock, collided with a Lancaster shortly after leaving the target area. Fortunately however, damage was only caused to the rudder and fin. He safely returned and made a perfect landing.

F/LT. D.C. Lowe, whilst returning from an attack against LUDWIGSHAVEN, on the 16th April 1943, experienced some very accurate A.A.Fire. He found on landing that his throttle controls were jammed open, he was lucky enough to be able to land, but unfortunately he crashed into a semi built hangar on the aerodrome. The aircraft was an absolute wreck, but all the crew got away safely, although not without slight injuries.

On the 26th April 1943 P/O P.J. Buck during an attack against Duisburg, was attacked by an unseen enemy fighter when about 30 miles North of the target. The rudder and tail of the aircraft was damaged, and the rear gunner was mortally wounded. The fighter was evaded and by jettisoning all moveable objects height was maintained and the aircraft returned to base where a perfect crash landing was made. Besides the rear gunner who lost his life, minor injuries were also received by two other members of the crew.

Training, has been on as large a scale as weather conditions would allow. Dinghy drill being given prominence after f/Sgt. Rothschild’s crash landing in the Sea.
On the formation of the new flight, many new crews have been posted to us, and it has been necessary to give them a great deal of further training before they could be sent on Operations.

DECORATIONS.
R91742 Sergeant Robert Earnest Tod was awarded the DISTINGUISHED FLYING MEDAL on the 23rd April 1943. He was W/T Operator of an aircraft severely damaged by A.A.Fire. From the target the aircraft was slowly losing height, and a forced landing in the sea, due to petrol shortage was imminent. He calmly sat at his wireless set carrying out the correct distress procedure, and the aircraft was continually plotted from the ground and rescue plans put into force. Sergeant Tod remained at his set until the last possible moment, when the aircraft was eventually forced to land in the sea. He set an example of the highest order to all in his Squadron and was the means of saving the lives of his crew.

CASUALTIES EFFECTING OFFICERS.
ACTING RANKS.
P/O D.C. Lowe. 138661 GD. Appointed to the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant w.e.f. 1/4/43 (Authy. 3 Grp. Pgram. 3G38937/5/8/P2 dtd. 31/3/43.

“A” POSTINGS.
F/L/ F.A. Andrews, NZ. GD. Posted to this Unit w.e.f. 28/3/43 (Authy.93 Grp. Pgram. 93G/5352/3/P4 dtd. 19/3/43).
F/L. G. Rothwell, 42726 GD. Posted to 218 Sqdn. W.e.f. 1/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp. Sig. P702 dtd. 30/3/43).
P/O. E.J. Mansell, 132097 GD. Posted to this Unit w.e.f. 3/4/43 (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P702 dtd. 31/3/43).
A/F/L. A.F. Sandeman, 86686 GD. Posted from this Unit to No.20 O.T.U. w.e.f. 23/4/43 (Auth.91Grp.Sig.AP316 dtd. 19/4/43).
F/L. D.R. Appleton, 42475 GD. Posted to this Unit w.e.f. 16/4/43 (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P750 dtd. 6/4/43.
F/L. R.H. Laud, 40625 GD. ) Posted to this Unit w.e.f. 16/4/43 (Authy. 3 Grp.ltr.3G/6601/P4 dated 14/4/43).
P/O. J.P. Ingham, 132331 GD. )
P/O. T.C. Graham, 125422 GD. Posted to this Unit w.e.f. 20/4/43 (Authy.92 Grp.Sig.P83 dtd, 17/4/43).
P/O. R.J. Bettles, 133994 GD. Posted to No. 1483 B & G. Flight w.e.f. 23/4/43 (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P813 dtd. 16/4/43).
F/O. R.B. Tulk-Hart, 133018 MED. Posted to RAF. Base Mildenhall w.e.f. 25/4/43. (Authy. QJMAI.pgrm.A523516/43/127/MAL dtd. 17/4/43).
P/O. E.J. Mansell, 132097 GD. Posted to No.No.16 O.T.U. w.e.f. 26/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P854 dtd. 24/4/43).
P/O. D.G. McCaskill, NZ413573 GD. ) Posted (Missing) to War Casualties (Non-Effective) Accts. Depot. w.e.f. 15/4/43. (Authy. AMO. A1294/42).
P/O. J.K. Grainger, NZ422295 GD. )
P/O. K.H. Groves, NZ415819 GD. Posted (Missing) to War Casualties (Non-Effective) Accts. Depot. w.e.f. 17/4/43. (Authy. AMO. A1294/42).
P/O. A.G. Tolley, NZ411954 GD. Posted (Missing) to War Casualties (Non-Effective) Accts. Depot. w.e.f. 21/4/43. (Authy. AMO. A1294/42).
P/O. S.J. Clubb, NZ414593 GD. ) Posted to this Unit w.e.f. 16/4/43 (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.F.750 dtd. 6/4/43).
P/O. J. Johnston, NZ416198 GD )
F/O. J. Joll, NZ40234 GD. Posted to this Unit w.e.f. 24/4/43 (Authy.91 Grp.Sig.AP310 dtd. 19/4/43).
A/F/L. F.G. Trott, NZ412743 GD. Posted to No.12 O.T.U. w.e.f. 11//4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.ltr.3G/6601/7A/P4 dtd. 1/3/43).
P/O. W. Turner, NZ415579 GD. Posted to No.1657 Con.Unit. w.e.f. 26/4/43. (Authy.3 Grp.pgrm.3G/6601/P4 dtd 20/4/43).

“B” ATTACHMENTS.
A/F/L. R. Broadbent, NZ391339 GD. Detached to No.1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 26/3/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P652 dtd. 25/3/43).
A/F/L. G.R. Heywood, NZ40622 GD. Ceased to be detached to No.16 O.T.U. w.e.f. 26/3/43(Authy. 3 Grp.pgrm.3G/8149/P4 dtd. 25/2/43).
F/L. F. Andrews, NZ GD. Detached to 1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 1/4/43(Authy. 3 Grp.pgrm.3G/6602/2/P4 dtd.28/3/43).
F/L. J.J. Manson, 104475 GD. Detached to No.16 O.T.U. w.e.f. 3/4/43(Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P702 DTD.31/3/43).
P/O. H.V. Duffett, 141020 GD. Detached to No.1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 1/4/43(Authy. 3 Grp.pgrm.3G/6602/2/P4 dtd. 28.3.43).
A/F/L. J.J. Manson 104475 GD. Ceased to be detached to No.16.O.T.U. w.e.f. 4/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp. Pgrm.3G/8149/P4 dtd. 25/2/43).

“G” APPOINTMENTS.
A/F/L. W.J. Scollay, NZ41497 GD. )
F/O. C.F. Ornerod, NZ413340 GD. ) Reclassified to Navigator (B) w.e.f. 21.1.43. (Authy.AMC.A52/43 & O.C.Unit).
P/O. R.R. Rayner, NZ41399 GD. )
F/O. D.L. Poppelwell, NZ41357 GD. Reclassified to Air Bomber w.e.f. 21.1.43. (Authy.AMC.A52/43 & O.C.Unit).
A/F/L. C.F. Westerman, J6650 GD. Reclassified to Navigator (B) w.e.f. 21.1.43. (Authy.AMC.A52/43 & O.C.Unit).
P/O. D. Harding-Smith. NZ405265 GD. Apptd. To a Commission as P/O on probation on 21/12/43 (Authy. A.M.Ltr. A.516211/43/S.2 (f) 1 (b)-1/4/43)
P/O. J.K. Grainger, NZ42295 GD. Apptd. To a Commission as P/O on probation on 21/2/43 (Authy. A.M.Ltr. A.515069/43/S.7 (f) 1 (b) dtd.6/4/43).
P/O. P.J.O. Buck, NZ413377 GD. Apptd. To a Commission as P/O on probation on 3/2/43 (Authy. A.M.Ltr. A.515124/43/S.7 (f) 1 (b) dtd.6/4/43).
P/O. M.T.T. Manawaiti, NZ412895 GD. Apptd. To a Commission as P/O on probation on 21/3/43 (Authy. A.M.Sig. B.1542 dtd. 19/4/43).
P/O. A.M. Bridgman, NZ41866 GD. Apptd. To a Commission as P/O on probation on 2/3/43 (Authy. A.M.Ltr. A.515123/43/S(E3 dtd.6/4/43).

CASUALTIES EFFECTING AIRCREW N.C.O.’S.
“A” PROMOTIONS ETC.
NZ412882 Sgt. WO/AG. Hosie, B.J. Promoted to the rank of Temporary Flight Sergeant w.e.f. 1/1/43. (Authy. Recs. Ltr. A2/m/NZ412882 dtd. 25/3/43.
NZ412878 Sgt. WO/AG. Gray, E.H. Promoted Temporary Flight Sergeant w.e.f. 1/3/43. (Authy. Recs.ltr.A2/M/NZ412878 dtd. 25/3/43).
1066314 Sgt. A/OBS. Jackson, D. Remustered Navigator (B) w.e.f. 23/7/42. (Authy. AMC. A746/42 & O.C.Unit).
NZ41594 Sgt. A/B. Kennedy, L.W. Remustered WO/AG. W.e.f. 4/1/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.ltr.3G/6614/P4 dtd. 18/10/42).

“B” CASUALTIES.
NZ401294 W/O. Pilot Walsh, J.A.E. Killed on 9/4/43.
R80237 F/S. Nav B. Moffat, B.A. “ “ “
R93568 Sgt. A/G. Stuart, P.G. “ “ “
574819 Sgt. F/Eng. Worthington, J. “ “ “
1030797 Sgt. A/B. Reddicliffe, J.W. “ “ “
1291838 Sgt. WO/Ag. Scudder, J.W. “ “ “
1386838 Sgt. A/G. Curtis, S.A. “ “ “
1384342 Sgt. A/G. Rogers, B.A. Killed on 27/4/43.

“H” MOVEMENTS.
657412 Sgt. Pilot WEBB, J. Posted from No.128 Sqdn w.e.f. 1/4/43. (Authy.3Grp.Sig.P.709 dtd. 31/3/43).
NZ4122170 Sgt. A/B. Findley, D. Detached to No.1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 1/4/43 (Authy.3Grp.pgrm. 3G/6602/2/P4 dtd. 28/3/43).
NZ413304 Sgt. Nav. Drawbridge, H. ) Posted to No.218 Sqdn. W.e.f. 1/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P.683 dtd. 30/3/43).
NZ405248 Sgt. A/B. Fielding, G. )
NZ41400 Sgt. WO/AG. Entwistle, W. )
NZ412878 F/S. WO/AG. Gray, E. ) Ceased to be detached to No. 1651 Con.Unit. w.e.f. 2/4/43 (Authy.3Grp.Sig.P.683 dtd. 30/3/43).
NZ4102533 Sgt. Nav. B. Bargin, J. )
NZ411799 Sgt. A/G. Reid, W. )
NZ42308 Sgt. Nav.B. Robinson, A. ) Posted from 1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 4/4/43 (Authy.3Grp.Sig.P.702 dtd. 31/3/43).
NZ41435 Sgt. A/G. Cooksley, B. )
116218 Sgt. WO/AG. Higgs, J.E. ) Detached to No.1657 Con.Unit. w.e.f. 1/4/43 (Authy.3Grp.pgrm.3G/6602/2/P4 dtd. 28.3.43).
994223 Sgt. F/Eng. Riley , W. L. )
1815847 Sgt. A/G. Francis, A. )
1059434 Sgt. A/G. Shaw, E. )
1312222 Sgt. A/B. Kane, W. Ceased to be detached to No.1651 Con. Unit w.e.f. 2/4/43 (Authy. 3Grp.Sig.P683 dtd. 30/3/43).
979354 Sgt. A/G. Howatt, A.B. )Posted to No.218 Sqdn. w.e.f. 1/4/43 (Authy.3Grp.Sig.P.698 dtd. 30/3/43).
13300067 Sgt. A/G. Negus, J.
567334 Sgt. F/Eng. Clarkson, A.
740441 W/O. Pilot Murray, H.P. Posted to this Unit w.e.f. 1/4/43 (Authy.3Grp.Sig.P671 dtd. 29/3/43).
1077126 Sgt. WO/AG. Garvin, W.H. ) Posted No.1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 4/4/43. (Authy.3 Grp.Sig.P702 dtd. 31/3/43).
1162860 Sgt. F/Eng. Taylor, C. )
657412 Sgt. Pilot Webb, J. ) Posted (Missing) to War casualties (Non-effective) Accounts Dept, Uxbridge w.e.f. 11/4/43 (Authy. AMO.A1294/42).
1337506 Sgt. Nav.B. Jones, D. )
979322 Sgt. F/Eng. Inglis, J. )
1315524 Sgt. A/G. Letherbarrow, E. )
643601 Sgt. A/G. Cunningham, L. )
1315996 Sgt. A/b. Anthony, D. )
1380534 Sgt. WO/AG. Lowther, R. )
649196 Sgt. A/G. Viccars, E. Posted to the Non-effective strength of RAF. Stn.MILDENHALL w.e.f. 6/4/43 (Authy. 3G/6601/3/P4 dtd. 11/4/43).
1385379 Sgt. Nav. Lens, A. ) Posted from 1651 Con.Unit w.e.f. 9/4/43 (Authy. 3Grp.Sig.P690 dtd. 30/3/43). )
1332576 Sgt. A/B. Parish, C. )
1351568 Sgt. A/G. Gratton, J. )
18000467 Sgt. A/G. Nicholson, J. )
532245 Sgt. F/Eng. Alcock, F. )
519416 Sgt. A/B. Elwell, K. ) Posted (Missing) to War Casualties Non-effective Accounts Depot Uxbridge w.e.f. 15/4/43 (Authy. AMO.1294/42).
1211032 Sgt. WP/AG. Green, R.T. )
1371651 Sgt. F/Eng. McVicar, A.
1609864 Sgt. A/G. Cook, E. )
1127681 Sgt. F/Eng. Harkness, W. Posted from No. 1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 18 /4/43 (Authy. 3Grp.pgrm.3G/6601/P4 dtd. 7/4/43).
1281626 Sgt. WO/AG. Bennetton, F. )
1382746 Sgt. A/G. Rogers, G. )
1394123 Sgt. Pilot Thomas, A. ) Posted from No. 1651 Con.Unit w.e.f. 18/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp. Pgrm. 3G/6601/P4 dtd. 14/4/43).
1029882 Sgt. Nav.B. Stewart, H.
1331932 Sgt. WO/AG. Boxell, R. )
1313969 Sgt. A/G. Parker, A.E.
1796043 Sgt. A/G. O’Farrell, J. )
1271102 Sgt. F/Eng. Gale, J. )
812100 Sgt. F/Eng. Dickenson, C. )
1314844 Sgt. WO/AG. Willaims, M. )
1473138 Sgt. A/G. Hemsley, W. )
NZ404653 Sgt. WO/AG. Moss, D.H. Posted from No.1651 Con.Unit w.e.f. 9/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P690 dtd. 30/3/43).
NZ402533 Sgt. Nav.B. Bergin, J. Posted to No.1657 Con. Unit w.e.f. 19/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P380 dtd. 20/4/43).
NZ416471 Sgt. Pilot Westwood, R. ) Posted from No.1657 Con. Unit. w.e.f. 18/4/43. (Authy. 3Grp.pgm.3G/6601/P4 dtd.7/4/43).
NZ413709 Sgt. A/B. Lamb, E.H. )
NZ414419 Sgt. A/G. Boswell, J. )
NZ417243 Sgt. Nav. Sowerby, G. ) Posted from No.1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 16/4/43(Authy. 3 Grp.pgrm.3G/6601/P4 dtd. 14.4.443).
NZ416006 Sgt. A/G. Knox, A. )
NZ416219 Sgt. Pilot Willaims, H. ) Posted from No.1651 Con.Unit. w.e.f. 18/4/43. (authy 3Grp. Pgrm. 3G/6601 P4 dtd. 14/4/43).
NZ42292 Sgt. Nav. Dill, T.G. )
NZ411347 Sgt. A/B. Carson, A. )
NZ39558 Sgt. A/G. Kaye, I.G. )
NZ413386 Sgt. A/B. Cumpsty, F.W. )
NZ404624 F/S. WO/AG. Cocks, S.G. Posted from No.1651 Con. Unit. w.e.f. 16/4/43. (Authy.3 Grp.Sig.P750 dtd.6.4.43).
NZ412211 F/S. Pilot Debenham, K. Posted (Missing) to Was Casualties non-effective Accounts, Dept, Uxbridge w.e.f. 17/4/43 (Authy. AMO.A1294/42).
NZ413281 Sgt. A/G. Stone, R. )
NZ415378 Sgt. A/G. Smith, R.A. Posted (Missing) to War Casualties Non-effective Accounts Dept, w.e.f. 15/4/43 (Authy. AMO.A.1294/42).
NZ404430 Sgt. A/B. Upton, F.W. Posted (Missing) to War Casualties non-effective Accounts Depot Uxbridge w.e.f. 21/4/43 (Authy. AMO. A.1294/42).
NZ404046 Sgt. A/G. Salt, I. )
NZ412315 Sgt. WO/AG. Cobb, C.F. )
R10253 Sgt. Pilot Way, J.O. Ceased to be detached to No.1651 Con. Unit w.e.f. 2/4/43 (Authy .3Grp.Sig.P683 dtd 30/3/43).
R86749 Sgt. A/G. Sorenson, L. )
R62201 Sgt. F/Eng. Falloon, G. )
R102353 Sgt. Pilot. Way, J.o. Posted (Missing) to War Casualties Non-effective Accounts Depot, w.e.f. 27/4/43 (Authy. AMO.A1294/42).
AUS405918 Sgt. Pilot. Logan, C.C. Posted from No. 1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 4.4.43(Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P702 dtd. 31/3/43).
AUS416619 Sgt. Pilot. Sedunary, A.J. Posted from No. 1651 Con.Unit w.e.f. 9.4.43(Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P690 dtd. 30/3/43).
AUS416471 Sgt. Pilot Westwood, R.F. Posted from No. 1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 19.4.43(Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P6601 dtd. 7/4/43).
629241 Sgt. A/G. Davis, J. Posted (Missing) to War casualties Non-effective Accounts Depot, Uxbridge w.e.f. 17/4/43 (Authy .AMO. A.1294/42).
1193816 Sgt. F/Eng. Wainwright,D. )
1312572 Sgt. A/B. Watts, D.M. )
1353768 Sgt. A/B. Marlow, J. )
1377412 Sgt. WO/AG. Pearson, P. )
656462 Sgt. A/B. Wanstall, R. )
971743 Sgt. F/Eng. Cameron, L. )
1149715 Sgt. Nav.B. Shergold, T.
1187983 Sgt. A/G. Everden, L. )
1376120 Sgt. WO/AG. Pierson, R. )
1127228 Sgt. A/G. Wykes, J. Posted from No.1651 Con. Unit w.e.f. 16/4/43 (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P750 dtd. 6/4/43).
1106308 Sgt. A/G. Moore, A. )
634968 Sgt. F/Eng. Andrews, J. )
1349542 Sgt. Nav.B. McQuade, H. Posted from No.1657 Con. Unit w.e.f. 16.4.43. (Anthy. 3 Grp.pgrm.3G/6601/P4 dtd. 14/4/43).
1196564 Sgt. WO/AG. Church, D. )
1332768 Sgt. A/B. Mullholland, H. )
848364 Sgt. A/G. Matthews, M. )
1299618 Sgt. A/G. Hawkins, F. )
1294453 Sgt. Pilot Wright, L. )
1030026 Sgt. WO/AG. Hegarty, T. )
1339159 Sgt. A/G. Crowther, F. )
1140022 Sgt. F/Eng. Blades, J. )
1021328 F/S. Nav. Ellis, W. Posted (Missing) to War Causalties Non-effective Accounts Depot, Uxbridge w.e.f. 21/4/43 (Authy. AMO.A.1294/42).
1217965 Sgt. F/Eng. Town, G.A. )
1332585 Sgt. A/G. Earle, F.J. )
1059993 Sgt. WO/AG. McIver, D. Ceased to be detached to No.1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 18/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P652 dtd. 25/3/43).
1477334 Sgt. A/G. Kurton, S. )
1392223 Sgt. A/G. Jones, H. )
1575834 Sgt. Pilot Baille, c.P. Posted from No.1657 Con.Unit w.e.f. 26/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.pgrm. 3G/6601/P4 dtd. 20/4/43).
1385557 Sgt. WO/AG. Millward, E. )
1484375 Sgt. F/Eng. Thompson, W. )
1502733 Sgt. A/B. Isherwood, J. )
1358198 Sgt. A/G. Hunting, E.F. )
1554949 Sgt. A/G. Purdie, T. )
1077126 Sgt. WO/AG. Garvin, W. Posted to No.16 O.T.U w.e.f. 26/4/43. (Authy. 3 Grp.Sig.P.854 dtd. 24/4/43).
646162 Sgt. A/G. Norrington, H. )

ARRIVALS AND DESPATCHES OF AIRCRAFT.
2.4.43
Stirling Mk.III, BK.770 received from Austin Motor Co., Birmingham. (Authy.41G/622 dtd. 30/3/43.
4.4.43
Stirling Mk.III, BK.778 received from Austin Motor Co., Birmingham. (Authy.41G/726 dtd. 3/4/43.
6.4.43
Stirling Mk.III, Bf.517 received from Short & Harlands, Belfast. (Authy.41G/727).
Stirling Mk.III, BF.506 received from Short & Harlands, Belfast. (Authy.41G/807 dtd. 6/4/43).
8.4.43
Stirlings Mk.III, BF.513 & BF.518 received from Short & Harlands, Belfast. (Authy.41G/807 dtd. 5/4/43).
Stirlings Mk.III, BK.776 & BK.777 received from Austin Motor Co., Birmingham. (Authy.41G/813 dtd. 6/4/43).
11.4.43
Stirling Mk.I, BF.377 received from Short & Harlands, Belfast. (Authy.41G/900 dtd. 9/4/43).
13.4.43
Stirling Mk.I, BF.434 received from Short & Harlands, Belfast. (Authy.41G/956 dtd. 11/4/43).

Continue these records – May 1943