6 September 1941: More Vital Foods Rationed and Prices Fixed

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‘Call up’ for men to dig shelters

MALTESE DAILY DIET FACES RESTRICTIONS

Malta’s population faces a hungry winter as more essential foodstuffs are added to the list of strictly rationed items. Rationing of edible oil, margarine and lard has already come into force.  Plans are now being made for the rationing of tinned fish and tinned meat, which will be put into effect later this month.

At the same time, the Maltese Government has decided to set up a Central Prices Board to fix the prices of local produce as well as goods imported by traders, in order to avoid the exploitation of shortages and ensure fair pricing across the Islands. The Board will also hear complaints by traders and the public with regard to prices.  Local committees are being set up all over the Island to oversee pricing in their areas and act as a point of contact for any concerns about excessive charges.

MALTA’S SKILLED CRAFTSMEN IN COMPULSORY ‘CALL UP’

Skilled workers such as miners, masons and stone cutters throughout Malta and Gozo are to be ‘called up’ to help with essential defensive works across the Islands. The measure is designed to speed up the construction of air raid shelters and other essential defence projects for the Malta Garrison. 

In a first step towards instituting compulsory service for skilled manpower to help in the defence of Malta, every suitably skilled man between the ages of 16 and 60 will be required to register with the Director of Compulsory Service. First to register will be all employees of the Government and military services.

The Island’s Governor and Commander in Chief has been concerned about the rate of construction, particularly of shelters for the civilian population. Having unsuccessfully bid for a skilled workforce to be sent to Malta from elsewhere, he is keen to ensure the maximum use of locally available tradesmen in completing the necessary works.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 6 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 7 SEPTEMBER 1941

Weather  Fine and fresh.

0010-0050 hrs  Air raid alert for a single enemy aircraft which approaches from the north at 14000 feet and drops bombs in the sea six miles off the coast before turning away. Two Hurricanes are scrambled but as searchlights cannot illuminate the raiders at such distance there is no engagement.  

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 1941

AIR HQ  Arrivals 1 Wellington. Departures 1 Sunderland, 1 Wellington.  Striking force patrols Ionian Sea and east Tunisian coast by two Marylands, one Blenheim and one Beaufort. 69 Squadron Maryland patrol east Sicilian and east Calabrian coasts.  2 Fulmar sent to patrol Catania and Gerbini developed engine trouble so went to Comiso and dropped incendiaries.  The crew returned to Malta, changed aircraft and took off again at 0001 hrs for Catania where they dived and machine-gunned the airfield, damaging three aircraft.  At 0115 hrs they dived on Gerbini airfield, dropping incendiaries and machine-gunning three more aircraft on the ground. 830 Squadron Fleet Air Arm 7 Swordfish attacked a northbound convoy of three merchant ships and three destroyers south of Pantelleria.  One merchant ship was claimed as sunk, and one damaged.  5 torpedoes were released.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 2; dealt with 2 (70kg incendiary)

8^th Bn MANCHESTER REGIMENT  The CO commented on the narrow escape of personnel during last night’s raid and emphasised the importance of maintaining a rigid blackout.

2nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT  One NCO and 14 men attached to RAF Luqa as mechanics.

 

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5 September 1941: Malta ‘A Most Formidable Offensive Base’

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Malta bombers attack Sicilian airfield

MALTA’S ROLE IN MEDITERRANEAN REVEALED IN BRITISH MEDIA

Malta’s role as a base for attacks on Axis-held territories and convoys has now been revealed publicly in British media for the first time, according to the diary of a prominent figure on the Island:

“This place has become a most formidable offensive base. We of course, know it, but it has only today been revealed at home. Our bombers are over Sicily, Tripoli and Benghazi every night, and often farther afield. The roar of planes goes on at frequent intervals during the night. A man who is stationed at Luqa said that on the previous night sixteen planes left the island in three formations, each plane carrying two tons of bombs.” (1)

WAR CABINET REPORT WEEK 28 AUG-4 SEPT

Over 65000 tons of enemy shipping have been damaged or destroyed by Allied aircraft in the Mediterranean in the past week. A series of successful attacks were made by Blenheims, Wellingtons and naval Swordfish operating from Malta against enemy shipping on passage to the African Coast and in harbour in Sicily and Tripoli.  In addition to a destroyer which was torpedoed and sunk, the following merchant ships [by vessel tonnage/size] were sunk or seriously damaged:

• 5000 tons bombed, blew up
• 8000 tons bombed, on fire from stern to funnel
• 5000 tons bombed, on fire
• 1200 tons torpedoed, left stationary and with a heavy list
• Tonnage unknown bombed, on fire
• Medium bombed, believed sunk
• Medium bombed, blazing from stem to stern
• 3/5000 tons bombed, left well alight
• 8/9000 tons torpedoed, blew up
• 9000 tons torpedoed amidships
• 9000 tons torpedoed, seriously damaged
• 9000 tons torpedoed, seriously damaged
• 8000 tons probable hit with a torpedo
• 8/10000 tons hit by bomb

During the week a total of 40 Wellingtons were despatched against Tripoli and at least six ships in the harbour were hit and a petrol dump exploded, while extensive fires were caused on the unloading quays and motor transport dispersal areas. Subsequent daylight reconnaissance showed that ships and stores were still burning.  On the night of 1-2 September the power station was attacked, two sticks of bombs falling across the target, and many others in the vicinity.

A night attack by Swordfish on a convoy off Cape Spartivento achieved complete surprise and resulted in at least four ships being hit. Such confusion resulted that the escorting destroyers fired on their own ships and several ships narrowly escaped [without resulting damage].

Hurricanes and Blenheims made daylight attacks on targets in Italy and Sicily. The power houses of two munition factories at Licata, Sicily, were hit by six bombs.  At Crotone, Italy, large explosions and fires followed hits on buildings in a munition factory, which subsequent photographs show to have been severely damaged.  In addition, a ship in harbour was hit three times, and ground targets were machine-gunned.  During a night attack on two Sicilian aerodromes naval Swordfish shot down an Italian bomber in flames. 

A few high-flying enemy aircraft crossed the coast of Malta by day, and there were two ineffective night attacks by about six aircraft.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 5 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 6 SEPTEMBER 1941

Weather  Cooler and very pleasant.

0445-0545 hrs  Air raid alert for three enemy aircraft approaching from the east. Only two make a half-hearted attempt to cross the coast.  One drops nine bombs in and around the grounds of Villa Gauci where troops are billeted; two bombs fail to explode and the Villa is evacuated.  Other bombs are dropped north of Dingli and in the sea east of the Island.  Two Hurricanes are scrambled but there are no searchlight illuminations or interceptions. 

Military casualties  Able Seaman Spiridione Zarb, HMS St Angelo.                                           

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 1941

ROYAL NAVY  Osiris sailed for Alexandria with stores and passengers. Defensive minelaying in Marsaxlokk was completed.

AIR HQ  Arrivals 4 Blenheim, 1 Sunderland, 2 Wellington. Departures 5 Blenheim, 1 Sunderland. 69 Squadron Photoreconnaissance Catania, Augusta and Syracuse, Palermo Harbour, aerodrome and hydro-electric plant and Tripoli Harbour.  Reconnaissance patrols of Tunisian coast and western Ionian Sea.  38 Squadron  9 Wellingtons attacked ships alongside Tripoli Harbour; results uncertain.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 3; dealt with 3 (2kg incendiary)

2^nd Bn KINGS OWN MALTA REGIMENT  Royal Engineers officers came to discuss the Battalion’s accommodation problems.

(1) Extract from diary of Reverend Reginald M. Nicholls, Chancellor of St.Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Valletta. Courtesy of website: Malta Family History 

 

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4 September 1941: Malta Defenders Destroy 12 Enemy Aircraft in 24 Hours

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SIX MACCHI FIGHTERS DESTROYED IN DAYLIGHT RAID

Malta’s defenders shot down a total of 11 enemy aircraft today in just three engagements. Mid-morning a large formation of 20 Macchi fighters approached the Island.  21 Hurricanes in total (twelve of 126 Squadron and nine of 185 Squadron) were scrambled and intercepted the raiders when they were still some distance north of Grand Harbour. 

F/Lt Jeffries spotted a Macchi circling at 19000 feet 30 miles off the coast and led his section of 185 Squadron in the attack. The Macchi was last seen diving vertically towards the sea.  Four Macchi fighters then counter-attacked but the Hurricanes managed to evade them. 

126 Squadron engaged the raiders at 20 miles off the coast. S/Ldr Rabagliati attacked two Macchis, reporting one spinning down towards the sea emitting smoke.  P/O Burke attacked two Macchis in turn, claiming hits on both; one was seen diving down towards the sea.  F/O Carpenter engaged three Macchis at high altitude, shooting one down. P/O Russell and F/Lt Lefevre attacked and shot down one Macchi apiece.  Three enemy parachutes were observed descending towards the sea; a fourth Italian also baled out but his parachute did not open. 

One Macchi only crossed the coast, flying at low altitude over Kalafrana and Hal Far. Bofors gun positions launched a fierce barrage and the Macchi was last seen losing height over Dingli Cliffs.

This afternoon it was the turn of Malta fighters to go on the offensive. Eight Hurricanes of 249 Squadron headed for Cape Passero on the southernmost point of Sicily, where a formation of twelve Macchi fighters had been reported in the air.  It became clear that the Macchis were protecting a hospital aircraft which was flying at sea level.  The Hurricanes launched an attack and a fierce dogfight ensued, during which three Macchis were destroyed, plus one probable, and two damaged.  Two Hurricanes were shot down; P/O G V Smith and Sgt J C Kimberley are missing.  The Hurricanes turned back towards Malta with the Macchis following close on their tails.  One Hurricane was hit by a bullet during the return flight but otherwise all remaining aircraft returned safely.  Speaking after the engagement, S/Ldr Barton said, “This is the toughest engagement I have experienced to date: the Macchis just stayed and fought.” 

Then in the early hours of this morning two enemy bombers took advantage of the approach of Wellington bombers to reach the Island without interception. High explosive bombs were dropped in the sea and incendiaries over Kalafrana and Marsaxlokk before two Malta night fighters could intercept.  Searchlights illuminated one of the bombers and the Hurricanes engaged, shooting it down in flames into the sea, to “the cheers of half of Malta” according to one eye-witness.  Two crew members were seen to bale out of the bomber but after a thorough search only one could be found and rescued.

The bombers in tonight’s raid were later identified as Cant Z 1007s. This is the first known incident of this type of bomber being used in night raids over Malta.  

AIR RAIDS DAWN 4 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 5 SEPTEMBER 1941

Weather  Fine and warm.

1043-1115 hrs  Air raid alert for 20 Macchi 200 fighters approaching the Island. 12 Hurricanes 126 Squadron are scrambled and attack the formation 20 miles north of Grand Harbour, shooting down four Macchis and damaging another.  Nine Hurricanes 185 Squadron also engage the raiders out to sea, shooting down one. One Macchi crosses the coast and flies over the Island at low altitude.  Bofors gun positions at Kalafrana and Hal Far engage, both claiming hits, and the Macchi is observed losing height over Dingli Cliffs.

1546 hrs  Eight Hurricanes of 249 Squadron engage 12 Macchi 200 fighters five miles off Cape Passero. Three Macchis are destroyed, plus one probable, and two damaged.  Two Hurricanes are shot down; P/O Smith and Sgt Kimberley are reported missing.  The Macchis follow the Hurricanes back towards Malta.  One Hurricane is struck by a bullet during the return flight. 

0443-0530 hrs  Air raid alert for two enemy aircraft which approach the Island with incoming Wellington bombers. The raiders drop high explosive bombs in the sea at Delimara Point, and incendiaries over Kalafrana and in fields near Marsaxlokk.  Searchlights illuminate a bomber which is engaged by Hurricane fighters and shot down in flames into the sea. Two crew bale out; one wounded man is rescued and taken prisoner.  The bomber is later identified as a Cant Z1007.

Military casualties  Sergeant John E Jones, wireless operator/air gunner, RAFVR, 107 Squadron; Sergeant Lewis D Parry, observer, RAFVR, 107 Squadron; Sergeant Walter H Wallace, pilot, RAFVR, 107 Squadron; Sergeant James C Kimberley, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR), 249 Squadron; Pilot Officer George V Smith, Royal Air Force, 249 Squadron.

Enemy casualties  Pilot Sergente Luigi Contarini, 90a Squadriglia, 10o Gruppo, 4o Stormo; Pilot Sottotenente Andrea Della Pasqua, 9o Gruppo, 4o Stormo; Pilot Tenente Colonello Carlo Romagnoli, Tenente Colonello, Commander of 10o Gruppo, 4o Stormo.

BOMB DAMAGE REPORT

Marsaxlokk  Tas Silg  Five bombs dropped in fields – four high explosives and one incendiary.   No damage to buildings or casualties.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 4 SEPTEMBER 1941

ROYAL NAVY  Unbeaten returned from patrol in Straits of Messina having sunk a schooner Q ship.  Vichy convoys and a hospital ship were sighted but nothing else.

AIR HQ  Arrivals 1 Sunderland. 69 Squadron Reconnaissance of Kerkennah area, western Ionian Sea and Tripoli.  Two Fulmars patrolled Catania, Gerbini and Comiso; bombs dropped on Comiso and Catania. 830 Squadron Fleet Air Arm Three Swordfish, two with torpedoes and one with a mine, left for Tripoli to attack shipping outside harbour. No shipping was located but a mine was laid outside the harbour; torpedoes were not released.  38 Squadron 13 Wellingtons attacked motor transport depot destroying several buildings and starting fires. 105 Squadron 5 Blenheims attacked shipping and port facilities Crotone Harbour.  Enemy fire blew off the wing of Sgt Wallace’s Blenheim and the aircraft crashed, killing the crew. 

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT  The Battalion held a defence scheme exercise in conjunction with the Fortress Royal Engineers and troops of 11^th Bn Lancashire Fusiliers.  ‘Enemy parachute troops’ attacked targets in Corrodino, the Dockyard, Floriana and Valletta.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 3; dealt with 37 (1 x 500kg; 36 x 2kg incendiary).

 

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3 September 1941: Malta Swordfish Blow Up Axis Ammunition Ship

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9 Swordfish attacked convoy

ONE AXIS SHIP SUNK, OTHERS DAMAGED IN CONVOY STRIKE

Swordfish aircraft from Malta sank a 6000 ton Italian steamer loaded with ammunition overnight, as well as badly damaging two other ships. The nine Swordfish took off late last night under cover of darkness on a search for a reported enemy convoy sailing southwards out of the port of Naples.  At just after midnight they located the 6000 ton steamers Andrea Gritti, Riallto, Vettor Pisani, Francesco Barbaro and Sabastiano Venier escorted by four destroyers to the south south east of Cape Spartivento. 

The Swordfish released eight torpedoes at the transport ships. Andrea Gritti immediately exploded and sank.  Francesco Barbaro was damaged and taken in tow by the destroyer Dardo to be nursed into the port of Messina.  At least one other of the merchant ships is believed to have been badly damaged in the attack.  All of the Swordfish returned safely to base.

PRISONERS OF WAR

From: Governor & Commander in Chief, Malta                            To: War Office

I regret to report that the following military ranks are missing, believed prisoners of war:

• Lt Dudley R Schofield, Royal Fusiliers
• Sgt Derek J De Nobriga, XRRC
• L/Sgt Robert H Brown, London Scottish
• L/Cpl John E A Ferguson, London Scottish
• L/Cpl Frank C Morgan, Royal Fusiliers
• L/Cpl Luke J Morris, Royal Ulster Rifles
• L/Cpl Albert M Andrews

AIR RAIDS DAWN 3 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 4 SEPTEMBER 1941

Weather  Fine and warm.

1120 hrs  Air raid alert for twelve enemy aircraft which approach from the north east to within 50 miles of the Island. 20 Hurricanes fighters are scrambled but only one of the raiders continues its approach as far as 10 miles off the coast before turning back.  A single fighter then approaches and crosses the Island at 16000 feet on reconnaissance. 

2315-2336 hrs  Air raid alert for a single enemy aircraft approaching from the north west. No attack is made.  Two Hurricane fighters are scrambled but do not engage.

0040-0115 hrs  Air raid alert for enemy aircraft which approach from the south and drop bombs on the south east of the Island. Two Hurricane fighters are scrambled but do not engage.

0154-0328 hrs  Air raid alert for enemy aircraft approaching from the east. Bombs are dropped on Grand Harbour, Paola and the north of the Island.  Incendiary and high explosive bombs are dropped on the north east side of Ta Qali aerodrome, damaging one Hurricane by splinters and bursting a water main outside the Officers’ Mess.  Bombs are dropped in the Hal Far area, slightly wounding two gunners at a light anti-aircraft gun position; one bomb fails to explode.  Two Hurricane fighters are scrambled but do not engage.

0500-0535 hrs  Air raid alert for enemy aircraft approaching from the north. Searchlights are active in the north of the Island.  No aircraft cross the coast.

BOMB DAMAGE REPORT

Paola  Sammut Street 238 & 240  One bomb dropped without exploding, killing two hens and causing damage to boundary walls.

Safi  15 bombs dropped in fields: 13 exploded, two did not explode.  Il-Giddieina  One bomb dropped. Tal-Ghakis  Ten bombs dropped.  Ta’ Kozzi  One bomb dropped.  Ta’ Zanu  Three bombs dropped.  No damage to buildings or casualties.

Ta Qali  Incendiary bombs dropped around the aerodrome: Sgt Thompson of the Aerodrome Guard was treated by Mosta ARP for contusions.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 1941

ROYAL NAVY  3 Swordfish left for Tripoli and released one torpedo and bombs at a destroyer outside harbour; one hit claimed with a torpedo and one with bombs.

AIR HQ Departures 3 Beaufighter. Blenheim carries out patrol to the north west.  69 Squadron  Photo-reconnaissances of railway east of Tripoli, and Messina-San Giovanni area.  5 Blenheims despatched to attack a convoy. 105 Squadron  5 Blenheims searched for convoy; no sighting. 830 Squadron Fleet Air Arm 3 Swordfish destroyed tanker outside Tripoli harbour and attacked other shipping in area.  2 Fulmars on patrol over Gerbini and Catania machine-gunned aircraft on the ground at Gerbini and dropped bombs on the aerodrome.  One Fulmar’s petrol tank was pierced by a bullet and it had to ditch in the sea north of St Paul’s Bay; the crew were rescued unhurt.  

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT  A new Officers Club opened this evening in Valletta.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 31.

8^th Bn MANCHESTER REGIMENT  0800-1230 hrs Training exercise; anti-parachutist training.

 

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2 September 1941: Rationing Bites as Malta Church Leader Loses 3 Stone

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HMS Ursula returns from patrol

A REFLECTION ON TWO YEARS OF WAR

Diary of Reverend Reginald Nicholls, Chancellor of St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Valletta: 2nd September 1941

Tomorrow is the second anniversary of the declaration of war. What a time it has been. If an Armistice came tomorrow, I think that the time would seem to have been short; and, apart from our loss of our son Anthony, I should feel that I had not suffered in health in spite of having lost three stones. My wife I think, has suffered more. She has never spent a whole summer here before, to say nothing of two, with the possibility of a third…

We have had a whole week free from night raids. But the moon is now once again nearly at the full, and it has begun again. Last night there was 4 or 5 hours of it but we were out at Birkirkara and though I heard three ‘Alerts’ … I went into the garden to have a look. I heard what I thought was a plane very near and very low, I ran like a stag, dropping one slipper in the garden! It dropped a small bomb in Sliema; I heard the bang and saw the burst. (1)

AIR RAIDS DAWN 2 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 3 SEPTEMBER 1941

Weather  Fine and warm.

No air raids.

Military casualties Leading Aircraftsman James Curtis, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR), 126 Squadron; Aircraftsman II John Davidson, RAFVR, 126 Squadron; Aircraftsman Martin L Preston, RAFVR; Leading Aircraftsman William A Thompson, RAFVR, 126 Squadron.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 2 SEPTEMBER 1941

ROYAL NAVY  Ursula returned from interception of convoy east of Tripoli.  Escort only sighted. Triumph returned from operations on north coast of Sicily.  Viaduct blown up and 6 Italian fishermen brought to Malta after their craft had been mistaken for an E boat and sunk.  One hit claimed on a cruiser at northern entrance of Messina Straits.

AIR HQ  Arrivals 2 Blenheim, 2 Beaufighter. Departures 4 Blenheim, 1 Beaufighter. 69 Squadron Photo-reconnaissance Licata shows considerable damage done by Blenheims on 30 August.  2 Fulmars offensive patrol Gerbini-Catania areas attacked aircraft, dropped bombs on aerodromes and made a low-level machine-gun attack on a dispersal area. 830 Squadron Fleet Air Arm 9 Swordfish on shipping sweep east of Cape Spartivento attacked a convoy of 7 destroyers and 5 merchant vessels scoring several hits.  All 8 torpedoes were released; one ammunition ship blew up and disappeared; two more ships were badly damaged.

TA QALI  During a monthly inspection a mine exploded, killing three airmen; another is still missing. 

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT  2 NCOs and 16 men of Maritime Royal Artillery Regiment from merchant ships in the Harbour were attached to the Battalion. They will remain until the ships leave Malta.  The last batch of men from ships was most helpful and it is hoped these will be the same.

8^th Bn MANCHESTER REGIMENT  Northern Infantry Brigade gave instructions for one NCO and two men to be sent every evening to each listening post to keep a lookout during the hours of darkness.  

(1) Extract from diary of Reverend Reginald M. Nicholls, Chancellor of St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Valletta. Courtesy of website: Malta Family History  

 

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1 September 1941: Malta is New Base for 10th Submarine Flotilla

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RAID SUMMARY AUGUST 1941

• No of air raid alerts 30
• No of raids 25 (including 18 night raids)
• Days without air raid alerts 15
• Total time under alert 18 hours 38 mins
• Average length of alert 38 mins
• Civilians killed by enemy action 5; injured 5
• Buildings destroyed/badly

HMS Upholder

FLOTILLA COMMAND AT MANOEL ISLAND

A new 10^th Submarine Flotilla has been formed with its base at Malta.  ‘U’ Class submarines have been operating from the Island for some time, carrying out successful operations against enemy convoys.  These smaller submarines, such as Unbeaten, Upholder, Upright and Ursula, have been found to be more suited to conditions in the Mediterranean.  Leading 10^th Flotilla will be Commander George W G Simpson who has been appoint to the command of HMS Talbot, the submarine base at Manoel Island, Malta.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 1 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 2 SEPTEMBER 1941

Weather  Fine and warm.

1039-1110 hrs  Air raid alert for twelve Macchi 200 fighters which approach from the north and cross the coast over St Paul’s Bay without dropping any bombs. Selected gun emplacements fire pointer rounds.  Hurricane fighters are scrambled but do not engage.

2111-2206 hrs  Air raid alert for six enemy bombers which approach singly from the north east and drop incendiary bombs plus a small number of high explosives across Marsa, Hamrun, Gudja, Pembroke Ranges and Island Bay, and in the sea north of St George’s. High explosive bombs are dropped on Pembroke Ranges.  One bomb falls on a tennis court at Sliema.  Four people are slightly wounded in the raid.  It is believed that they did not go into a shelter.  Three Hurricanes are scrambled; no interceptions.  P/O Robertson crashes on landing; he is unhurt. 

BOMB DAMAGE REPORT

Hamrun St Francis Street to Marsa Basin 54 incendiary bombs and three antipersonnel explosive bombs were dropped: one house seriously damaged and rendered uninhabitable; 29 houses damaged by blast. Two men and one woman injured: Salv. Debono, age 67, and Grazia Debono, age 70, both of no.60 St Francis Street; Giovanna Borg, age 55, no.86 St Francis Street.

Marsa  Several small incendiary bombs dropped: three houses damaged by blast.  Peter Cachia, age 50, of no. 141 Marsa Road, and Emmle Bonello of 108 St Paul’s Street Marsa treated for slight burns at Marsa Centre and sent home.

Sliema  Victoria Avenue Capua Palace  One 250k high explosive bomb dropped on courtyard [tennis court]: nos. 9a, 9b and 9c Capua Street damaged by blast.

St George’s-St Andrew’s  A high explosive bomb fell on rocks: no damage caused.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 1941

ROYAL NAVY  5 Swordfish searched area to eastward for northbound convoy without success. Upholder returned from interception of convoy east of Tripoli.  Convoy sighted and attacked without success.

AIR HQ  Arrivals 2 Beaufighter, 5 Blenheim. Departures 2 Beaufighter, 1 Sunderland. 69 Squadron Reconnaissance east Tunisian coast.   Special search by Blenheim.  2 Fulmars offensive patrol Gerbini-Comiso area dropped incendiaries on Gerbini and Augusta. 38 Squadron 7 Wellingtons attacked Tripoli power station dropped bombs and incendiaries causing damage and fires. 105 Squadron 7 Blenheims attacked chemical works, ship and railway in southern Calabria.  5 Hurricanes fitted with cannon despatched on a special railway patrol near Pozallo Railway Station.  They dived on a train and attacked from the rear, hitting the engine and driver’s cabin.  Coaches in the station were also hit.  Machine-gun fire retaliated from both sides of the line; Sgt Parker’s windscreen was hit by one bullet.   

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT  The Battalion took over 4 Bren carriers. They will undergo 2 weeks’ maintenance training under the Malta Tank Troops billeted by us, before being used in C Company sector.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 5; dealt with 3 (2kg incendiary).

MALTA SIGNALS COMPANY  14 other ranks disembarked and posted to SWS Malta.

ROYAL ARMY ORDNANCE CORPS  Strengths 25 officers, 8 WO1, 189 other ranks.

 

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31 August 1941: Malta Submarines & Swordfish Sink 12 Axis Ships

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HM Submarine Triumph

ROYAL NAVY REPORT FOR AUGUST 1941

The chief events during the month have been:

• The increasing success of the attack on the Italy to Tripoli shipping route.
• The successful completion of ‘Operation Style’.
• The attempt to pass ships from the former Operation Substance convoy to the westward without escort.

Attacks on Italian Shipping

(a) Submarines  During the month, 12 patrols were carried out by the submarine flotilla (and Triumph).  During the course of these patrols, the following successes were obtained:

• 6 ships totalling 50,000 tons (approximately) are believed to have been sunk.
• 1 cruiser – almost certainly Bolzano – was damaged and subsequently seen to be beached near Messina.
• 1 ship – the Aquitania (4971 tons) was damaged and reported in tow. 1 destroyer was probably hit.

In addition, two successful train wrecking operations were carried out from one of which, unfortunately, some of the landing party failed to return. The above results were not achieved without serious loss: P32 and P33 [on offensive patrols] and Cachalot on passage from Malta to Alexandria were sunk.

(b) Swordfish of 830 Squadron  16 sorties were carried out during the month.  In the course of these operations, 6 ships of estimated 43,000 tons were claimed as sunk.  One of the ships of 13,000 tons may have been a hospital ship.  In addition, a further 3 ships totalling 17,000 tons and a destroyer were claimed as damaged.  No aircraft were lost due to enemy action.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 31 AUGUST TO DAWN 1 SEPTEMBER 1941

Weather  Very strong wind and one short heavy cloudburst.

No air raids.

Military casualties  Corporal Cyril Taylor, 11th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers.

BOMB DAMAGE REPORT

Summary 1-31 August 1941

• Totally demolished: five premises, Sacristy of the Church of the Sacred Heart.
• Seriously damaged and requiring demolition before reconstruction: one house.
• Seriously damaged: 16 premises, one farmhouse.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 31 AUGUST 1941

ROYAL NAVY  Utmost returned from patrol on Calabrian coast.  Unsuccessful attack on a convoy and blew up a railway bridge.

AIR HQ Arrivals 2 Beaufighter, 2 Blenheim. Departures 2 Blenheim, 4 Wellington. 69 Squadron Marylands striking force patrol off northern Tunisian coast.  Photoreconnaissance of Comiso, Gerbini and Catania, and Tripoli harbour and railway line. 38 Squadron 9 Wellingtons despatched to attack shipping in Tripoli harbour in 3 waves hitting several targets.  Most bombs struck the target area, causing fires and damage to buildings. 830 Squadron Fleet Air Arm 5 Swordfish searched for southbound merchant vessel off Syracuse but found no trace.  One Fulmar patrolled over Gerbini and machine-gunned the aerodrome, then patrolled over Catania, returning to Gerbini to release incendiaries and machine gun aircraft on the ground, starting five good fires. 

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT  Strengths 33 officers, 869 other ranks (2 RAOC attached).

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 1

2^nd Bn KINGS OWN MALTA REGIMENT  Strengths 22 officers, 421 other ranks.

3^rd Bn KINGS OWN MALTA REGIMENT  Total enlistments in August: 85 conscripts, 2 volunteers. Strength on 31 August: 18 officers, 636 other ranks.

 

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30 August 1941: Malta Aircraft Drop 200 Tons of Bombs on Tripoli

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AIR HQ MALTA REPORTS ON THE MONTH’S OPERATIONS     

During the month the Marylands and photoreconnaissance Hurricanes of 69 Squadron have covered the Italian convoy routes daily and have also made frequent reconnaissances of Sicilian and southern Calabrian ports and aerodromes, and of Tripoli. As a result of these reconnaissances and a study of the excellent photographs obtained, Wellingtons of 38 Squadron have carried out 15 raids on Tripoli and two raids on Catania.  During the month over 200 tons of bombs have been dropped on Tripoli alone and have caused considerable damage to shipping and harbour installations.  One Wellington failed to return from a raid over Tripoli.

Blenheims of 105 Squadron have carried out 23 operations, all except two of them against enemy shipping. Considerable damage was caused to chemical works at Crotone and to storage tanks and factories at Licata.  Five aircraft have been lost but the crew of one are known to be prisoners.

Swordfish of 830 Squadron Fleet Air Arm have carried out 16 operations, 13 of which have been most successful. Twice they have bombed the submarine base at Augusta and once shipping at Catania.

Hurricanes (cannon-loaded) of 126 Squadron have attacked floatplanes at Syracuse and balloons at Augusta with considerable success.

On 14 nights, Fulmars have operated over aerodromes in southern Sicily, dropping small bombs and carrying out machine-gun attacks; on one occasion at least five aircraft being burnt out at Gerbini. These intruder operations have frequently disturbed the Italian night flying routine.

No 126 Squadron has carried out 19 scrambles during the month, 249 Squadron has carried out 34 and 105 Squadron 36. The newly-formed Malta Night Flying Unit has had 17 scrambles and has shot down 4 enemy aircraft confirmed.  There have been a total of 12 enemy aircraft confirmed destroyed, three probables and one damaged during the month, against the loss of one Hurricane and pilot.

It is probable that the Italians have been operating without German assistance during the month. There have been six day alerts and 18 night alerts, on 15 of which bombs were dropped, approximately half of them incendiary.  It is interesting to note that on at least two occasions a ‘hang up’ of these incendiary containers has resulted in the enemy aircraft catching fire and being destroyed.  Little damage has been done by air raids, and none to service property; there have been no service casualties.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 30 AUGUST TO DAWN 31 AUGUST 1941

Weather  Sunny and hot.

No air raids.

Military casualties  Sergeant William F Butler, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR); Sergeant Thomas P Butterfield, RAFVR; Sergeant Maurice H Cope, RAFVR; Sergeant Donald R A Garrick, RAFVR; Sergeant David D Todd, RAF.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 30 AUGUST 1941

AIR HQ  Arrivals 5 Wellington. 69 Squadron Marylands reconnaissance Tripoli.  Special patrol sighted two passenger liners 110 miles south of Malta steering south east. 38 Squadron 9 Wellingtons despatched to attack shipping and specified targets in Tripoli in 3 waves.  Several bombs struck the target area, causing fires and damage to buildings. 105 Squadron 6 Blenheims sent to attack a power station and chemical factory at Licata score hits on buildings and large fires.  The attack was a complete surprise and there was no opposition.   

HAL FAR  One Fulmar patrolled over Comiso and Gerbini but low cloud prevented any attack. Four bombs were dropped on barracks at Pozzallo, starting a fire. 830 Squadron Fleet Air Arm 5 Swordfish on anti-shipping search located a 1500 ton merchant vessel 20 miles west of Lampedusa and scored a hit with one torpedo and probably a second.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 1

ROYAL ARMY ORDNANCE CORPS  Strength of detachment 27 officers, 192 other ranks.

 

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29 August 1941: Maltese Overseas Could Enlist to Defend Island

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15 Wellingtons attacked Tripoli

MALTESE LIVING IN TURKEY ELIGIBLE FOR SERVICE

Maltese citizens currently living in Turkey could be invited to enlist for military service in the defence of the Island. According to the War Office in London, reports coming out of Turkey indicate that within Maltese communities in Istanbul and Smyrna a number of individuals may be eligible for general military service. 

If he wishes to recruit personnel for the defence of Malta, Malta’s Governor and Commander in Chief has been invited to communicate with the British Ambassador in Istanbul or the British Consul in Smyrna. The British Colonial Office is also willing to assist, and the Foreign Office has offered to provide free passage for suitable candidates from Turkey to the nearest territory where they could be enlisted.

BATHING RESTRICTIONS IN MARSAMXETTO HARBOUR

Bathing from the quay at the Royal Malta Yacht Club is prohibited to Service personnel except those having access to the changing accommodation in the Yacht Club. Men wishing to swim in this neighbourhood will find excellent facilities and refreshments at the Services Swimming Pavilion (Rocco Baths) which is 300 yards further east along the Harbour.  The entrance is on the Great Siege Road opposite the end of the Main Ditch.  Admission is free. 

AIR RAIDS DAWN 29 AUGUST TO DAWN 30 AUGUST 1941

Weather  Sunny and hot.

1300 hrs  Six enemy raiders are reported leaving the Sicilian coast. Malta fighters are scrambled but there is no interception.

1728-1740 hrs  Air raid alert for 12 enemy aircraft which approach from the north. Six cross the coast over St Paul’s Bay at great height, then recede without dropping any bombs.  20 Malta fighters are scrambled but there is no combat.

Military casualties  Private Lorenzo A D Beabey, 1st Battalion, Hampshire Regiment.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 29 AUGUST 1941

ROYAL NAVY  Upholder and Ursula brought to short notice and sailed to intercept convoy east of Tripoli.

AIR HQ  Arrivals 1 Bombay. Departures 2 Blenheim, 1 Bombay. 69 Squadron Marylands reconnaissance Tripoli, patrols of Cape Bon and western Sicily and photoreconnaissance Sicilian coast.  Two 40lb bombs were dropped on land west of Lampedusa harbour. 38 Squadron 15 Wellingtons despatched to attack shipping and specified targets in Tripoli hitting vessels and buildings and causing damage and several fires. 830 Squadron Fleet Air Arm 9 Swordfish sent to attack a convoy of 6 destroyers and 3 merchant vessels south of Cape Spartivento.  Owing to an effective smoke screen only one hit was scored on an 8000 ton merchant vessel.  Two Hurricanes returning from a special patrol saw a small schooner a mile offshore at Pozzello and dived to attack; no damage caused.   

HAL FAR  2 Fulmars patrolled over Comiso, Gerbini and Catania, dropping two bombs on Gerbini and machine-gunning a control building.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 1; dealt with 2 (2kg incendiary).

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT  One other rank of D Company was killed at Pembroke Ranges.

 

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28 August 1941: Malta on Full Alert as E-boat Engines Heard Offshore

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TROOPS MAN BEACH AND HARBOUR DEFENCE POSTS

Malta troops were ordered to man defensive positions to prepare for a possible enemy E-boat invasion. The sound of motor boat engines was heard off the coast of Gozo just after 11 o’clock last night.  8^th Battalion Manchester Regiment, currently stationed on the Island, were ordered to ‘stand to’ at all beach defence posts.  Shortly before midnight a message was immediately relayed to Malta, where beach posts were also quickly ordered to ‘stand to’.  All artillery positions defending Grand Harbour and Marsamxetto Harbour were ordered to man their guns.  Troops remained on red alert until daylight today when they were stood down.  Military chiefs confirmed today that boats had approached the Island but had not come within range of the coastal guns.    

NIGHTLY RAIDS ON TRIPOLI FROM MALTA – WAR CABINET REVIEW 21-28 AUGUST

Attacks were made on Tripoli on five nights. Wellingtons operating from Malta made a total of 52 sorties and dropped over 86 tons of high explosive and incendiary bombs.  These attacks, which were most successful, were concentrated on the harbour area and on military stores and supply dumps.  Direct hits were made on quay warehouses, which were probably destroyed, and some very extensive fires were reported in the harbour and in a military supply dump area.  Damage was also caused to shipping and harbour installations, and one merchant vessel was revealed to have a broken back and sank alongside Spanish Quay. 

Some successful attacks were carried out against shipping plying between Sicily and the African Coast. Two Blenheims made three hits on a 4000 ton merchant vessel north east of Kerkennah, which was claimed to be sunk.  Unfortunately, one of these aircraft hit the mast and crashed in flames.  Two schooners with an escort vessel were attacked and destroyed by four Blenheims in the Gulf of Sidra.   On another occasion a bomb exploded on the deck of a merchant vessel of 1000 tons, and a schooner was machine-gunned and left sinking.  Other Blenheims, unable to locate any enemy shipping, made an attack on lorries travelling on the Tripoli-Benghazi road.  A night attack on 27-28 August by Navy Swordfish resulted in one hit on a vessel of 8000 tons; this was followed by flashes and a red glow.

The enemy made two minor attacks on Malta by night. On the second of these, two aircraft believed to be JU 88 bombers, were seriously damaged by Hurricanes.  During daylight on 26 August, nine Macchi 200s were intercepted by Hurricanes 50 miles from the Island; three were shot down, one falling onto a village in Sicily, and two others probably destroyed, for the loss of one Hurricane.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 28 AUGUST TO DAWN 29 AUGUST 1941

Weather  Sunny and hot.

No air raids.

0625 hrs  Troops on beach defence posts are ordered to ‘Stand down’.

Civilian casualties  Naxxar  Marianna Vella, age 42; Mary Vella, age 14; Carmela Vella, age 11; Andrew Vella, age 7; Carmel Vella, age 4; Teresa Vella, age 3.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 28 AUGUST 1941

AIR HQ  Arrivals 4 Blenheim, 1 Sunderland. Departures 3 Blenheim, 2 Hurricane, 1 Sunderland. 69 Squadron Maryland searches of Ionian Sea, photoreconnaissance of Tripoli and patrols eastern Sicilian and east Calabrian coasts.  F/O Warburton dropped two 40lb bombs on buildings 10 miles west of Homs scoring direct hits and two more on barrack blocks south of Homs scoring a direct hit. 105 Squadron 5 Blenheims sent to attack merchant ships scoring several hits.  

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS  Bomb Disposal UXB reported 3; dealt with 40 (2kg incendiary).

 

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