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29 November-5 December 1942: The Siege is Broken

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MALTA WAR DIARY FINISHES 5 DECEMBER 1942

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29 November 1942: Starvation Rations Barely Eased Despite Convoy

Malta has been holding its breath for news from the Government following the arrival of last week’s convoy. The first one subject on everyone’s mind is food. For many weeks, the Island’s armed forces and civilians alike have been on the verge of starvation. The want of food has created a greater fear even than heavy bombing. Children crying for want of food have become a common sight in the streets. The death rate among babies and the elderly has risen, viral and infections diseases have increased.

Although they could not openly acknowledge it, the authorities knew that without the convoy supplies would have run out completely on 3 December. Even with the latest delivery, stocks are only sufficient to feed the Island for another two weeks and there is no certainty when the next convoy will arrive.

Today’s announcement outlined the difficult choice faced by the Government: whether to raise rations in the hope of another convoy, or to be cautious until safe passage for supply ships is guaranteed. In the event rations will be raised slightly, with an increase in the all-important bread allowance targeted at men from 16 to 60 in the first instance, starting 1 December. For the rest of the population cheese and fats rations will be doubled and sugar restored to previous ration rates. Any increase in other commodities will have to wait until further convoy deliveries.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 29 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 30 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Mainly fair.

0740-0825 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are airborne to patrol Cape Scalabri as rear cover for returning bombers: no enemy aircraft seen.

1005 hrs Spitfires from Luqa are airborne to provide cover for 185 Squadron returning from a bombing mission.

1100-1215 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to act as cover for returning Spitfires of 185 Squadron: no enemy sighted.

1425-1605 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron on patrol: no sightings.

1640-1647 hrs Air raid alert: aircraft identified as friendly.

1220-1325 hrs Eight Spitfires 185 Squadron carry out a sweep over south east Sicily: nothing sighted.

Night Beaufighters 89 Squadron on intercept patrol over the Island and surrounding area: no enemy aircraft seen.

0230-0505 hrs One Swordfish is despatched to search for a missing Wellington crew: an oil patch is spotted on the sea, but no dinghy.

Military casualties Nil.

Civilian casualties Zejtun Emanuel Carabott, age 53.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 29 NOVEMBER 1942

P 46 HMS Unruffled

ROYAL NAVY Hythe swept P 46 to sea.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Beaufighter, one Hurricane from Bone; two Hudsons from Gibraltar; two Wellingtons from Benghazi. Departures One DC 3, one Wellington to LG 224; one DC 3 to El Adem; one Liberator to Gibraltar; one Beaufighter to Bone; one Beaufighter to Algiers via Bone. Aircraft casualties One Beaufort shot down by enemy aircraft: crew missing.

LUQA Five sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron covering harbours and aerodromes in Italy. 1730-2300 hrs Seven Wellingtons 40 and 104 Squadrons were airborne to attack the docks at Bizerta in three waves. Bombs fell near fuel tanks and among buildings, causing one large fire visible 50 miles away. Eight Beauforts 39 Squadron were sent to lay mines in the entrance of Palermo harbour: one was hit by flak and ditched into the sea. The crew pilot F/Sgt Ellis Walker and Sgts R J McCallough, G R A Duffield and G D Stevens are missing.

TA QALI 0605-1055 hrs Two Beaufighters 227 Squadron on offensive sweep strafed motor transport and railway in Pantelleria. 0725-0920 hrs Two Spitfires 227 Squadron on offensive sweep: no sightings. 0730-0830 hrs Nine Spitfires, five carrying bombs, of 249 Squadron on bombing sweep: bombs were dropped on Comiso aerodrome with good results. Beaufighters had their most active day of the month, flying 18 sorties against shipping and aircraft in the north east area of Tunis. 1010-1330 hrs Three Beaufighters 227 Squadron on offensive sweep: one coaster attacked and damaged. 1250-1630 hrs Two Beaufighters 272 Squadron on offensive sweep: P/O Palmer destroyed one JU 52.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Convoy duties continue.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged at sub-depot.

30 November 1942: Spitfire Bombers Turn Table on Axis

AIR RAID STATISTICS NOVEMBER 1942

Total number of alerts to date 3165
Total number of alerts this month 30
Number of blank days 11
Number of night raids 13
Raid free nights 23
Alerts for own planes 7
Total time from air raid alert to Raiders Passed 10 hrs 35 mins
Average length of alert 21.2 mins

MALTA’S FIGHTER BOMBERS KEEP AXIS AIRCRAFT ON THE GROUND

Spitfire Mk V fighter bomber

Having suffered for many months at the hands of Messerschmitt fighter bombers, Malta has turned the tables on the Axis with its own Spitfire Bomber force. Brought into use for the first time at the beginning of this month, the Island’s fighter bombers have carried out many attacks on the southern Italian aerodromes, flying a total of 54 successful sorties in which they dropped 13 tons of bombs.

Main targets for the Spitfire Bombers are Comiso and Gela aerodromes. Although many German and Italian fighters are still based in south east Sicily, they have shown a surprising reluctance to engage Malta’s fighter bombers. On the few occasions when enemy fighters have been encountered the close escort of Spitfires has had no difficulty in driving them off. Their busiest day so far was Wednesday 25 November, when Spitfire Bombers flew 19 sorties.

Today saw 13 sorties: the first this morning was by 185 Squadron. Four fighter bombers with four Spitfire fighters as close escort were despatched to bomb Comiso aerodrome. Four explosions were observed to the rear of the main buildings east of the aerodrome. On the way out, the second pair of Spitfire bombers was attacked from below by a Macchi 200. Strikes hit Sgt Gunstone in Red 3, who fired three bursts in return, seeing strikes along the Italian’s fuselage and can claim one Macchi 200 damaged. 17 more Spitfires, nine of which were carrying bombs, attacked Comiso in two waves: one Macchi 200 was damaged.

272 SQUADRON COMMANDING OFFICER BACK FROM THE DEAD

Two RAF officers walked into the RAF Officers’ mess today to the surprise and delight of their comrades who thought they had been lost in action. Squadron Leader Antony (Tony) Watson, Commanding Officer of 272 Squadron, and his navigator Pilot Officer C F Cutting were reported missing on 14 November. During an attack on El Aouina aerodrome, they were strafing a German JU 52 on the ground when their Beaufighter was hit by flak, damaging the starboard engine. They were last seen making an emergency landing on the beach at Tunis, six miles from the airfield.

S/Ldr Watson today related how he and P/O Cutting set fire to the Beaufighter, then set off to find the Allied lines, which they managed to reach without being captured. Eventually they were able to hitch a ride back to Malta, where they have been duly given membership of the ‘Late Arrivals Club’.

NORTH AFRICAN VENTURE CANCELLED AGAIN

The proposed Army mission to a French port in North Africa was called off again today. The move follows the report from the RAF, following a reconnaissance flight yesterday. The project leader Major H M Vaux, MC, also liaised with 1^st Army at present in Tunisia and, having reviewed all the information, Fortress Headquarters decided to cancel the proposed operation.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 30 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 1 DECEMBER 1942

Weather Variable; local showers.

0705 hrs Two Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are airborne to search for a missing Beaufort: no dinghy is seen.

0755 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squaqdron Luqa are airborne to cover the return of fighter bombers: no enemy aircraft seen.

1615-1645 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1615-1700 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far on patrol Grand Harbour: nothing seen.

2359 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron Luqa on patrol over Pantelleria: no sightings.

0212-0214 hrs Air raid alert: aircraft identified as friendly.

Military casualties Sergeant William Clark, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Sergeant Kenneth Gamble, RAF VR; Flight Sergeant Laurence Helme, RAF VR; Sergeant Thomas Howarth, RAF VR; Sergeant Ronald McLean, RAF VR; Sergeant William Richards, RAF; all 39 Squadron. Sergeant Donald Reeve, RAF VR, 242 Squadron; Flying Officer Richard Twomey, Royal Australian Air Force.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS 30 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY The move of 821 Squadron of the Fleet Air Arm (twelve Albacores) from the Western Desert was completed today. No aircraft were lost during passage. Hebe swept P 35 out and P 311 and P 44 in. P 311 joins Tenth Submarine Flotilla, reporting an uneventful passage direct from the United Kingdom.

P 44 HMS United

HMS Una arrived from patrol in the Gulf of Tunis. On 27 November, she torpedoed and sank a 4000 ton merchant vessel, one of two escorted by a destroyer. The merchant vessel blew up causing superficial damage to the Una at 1200 yards. HMS P 44 returned from a patrol off Burat-el-Hsun, Tripoli and Kerkennah areas. At 1845 hrs on 21 November, P 44 entered Burat harbour and engaged a schooner with her 3″ gun, scoring twelve hits; the schooner was considered sunk.

Axis shipping losses November 1942: 19 merchant ships sunk totaling 41,450 tons; 14 merchant ships damaged totaling 29,540 tons.

AIR HQ Beaufighters on offensive patrols damaged two JU 52s, one SM 79 and two Macchi 200s in the air; destroyed two Cant Z 506s and damaged two more as well as one JU 52 on the ground. One schooner, motor transport and a train were also shot up.

Two Beaufighters of 227 Squadron attacked a 1500 ton merchant vessel approaching Pantelleria harbour, sighted earlier by a Baltimore. The two Beaufighters attacked from such a low level that one of them was slightly damaged by striking the funnel of the merchant ship, with its starboard propeller. Two ME 109s made an abortive attempt to intercept. Two direct hits were scored, causing a terrific explosion followed by a large column of black and white smoke. The vessel can be considered destroyed.

Departures One Hurricane to Bone. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire shot down over enemy territory: pilot missing. One Spitfire failed to return from operations: pilot missing. One Wellington crash-landed: crew uninjured. Two Beauforts failed to return from operations: crews missing.

HAL FAR 12 delivery Albacores arrived from Middle East. 1004-1701 hrs One Hurricane carried out a special mission: Hal Far to Bone and return.

Poor House Luqa

LUQA Strengths: 230 Officers, 665 NCOs, 2079 Other Ranks, 771 Army, 600 civilians. Personnel accommodation made by fixing up Poor House with steel tubular 3-tier bunks. Owing to inability to obtain beds from equipment sources, 1500 bunks were made. Material was obtained from aerodrome obstructions and made entirely by RAF personnel working parties. Three sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron covering the harbours of Naples, Palermo, Bizerta, Tunis and Sousse.

1425 hrs Three Spitfire bombers with four Spitfires as close escort, all 126 Squadron, are despatched to attack Gela aerodrome: no enemy aircraft seen. 1718 hrs Ten Wellingtons 40 Squadron were airborne to attack Bizerta: bombs were dropped on target and all aircraft returned safely. 1815 hrs Eight Beauforts 39 Squadron were despatched to lay mines in Bizerta and Tunis harbours. Two aircraft failed to return and missing crews were named as: F/Sgt Twomey, F/Sgt Helme, Sgts Gamble and Howarth; P/O Brown and Sgts Richards, McLean and Clark.

TA QALI 0710-0820 hrs Ten Spitfires 249 Squadron carried out a bombing sweep of Gela aerodrome: bombs were dropped on the runway. 0715-0810 hrs Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron carry out a bombing sweep of Comiso aerodrome: all bombs dropped on and around target. 1155-1305 hrs Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron, six carrying bombs, attacked Gela aerodrome. Bombs were dropped but results not observed. Sgt Wendt does not return and is declared missing. 1535-1645 hrs Nine Spitfires 229 Squadron on reconnaissance patrol: no sightings.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Green dump cleared and guard dismounted. Other convoy duties continue. Company strengths 29 Officers, 788 Other Ranks; 3 Officers, 9 Other Ranks attached.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT For period 11-30 November working party provided at Hal Far: four 15 cwt lorries for food delivery, servicing aircraft and as mobile repair vehicles; two impressed lorries for crater filling; two motor cycles as special despatch riders; 16 Other Ranks to man above vehicles. For period 18-30 November the following were working at Zabbar sub-depot: four 15 cwt lorries, five impressed lorries and 16 Other Ranks for convoy transport work. Throughout the month two Twin Lewis guns were manned in the anti-aircraft defence of Safi Strip.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Recce by CO of new central dump at Floriana for unloading of next convoy.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged at sub-depot.

24 FORTRESS COMPANY ROYAL ENGINEERS Strength of Company: 5 Officers and 226 Other Ranks. During the month the CQMS store was completed except for finishing touches to roof and the messroom at camp was covered in. Part of 2 Section billet, weakened by bomb explosions, fell down and is to be rebuilt. Hot baths were constructed for the Company in No 3 Section billets.

1 December 1942: Another Convoy for Malta

A convoy of four merchant ships with a large escort of cruisers and destroyers sailed from Port Said at 1430 hours this afternoon heading for Malta. The four merchantmen gathered at Lake Timsah by noon yesterday, when a conference was convened by the senior officer of the escort who had flown in from Alexandria for the meeting.

Glenartney

The merchantmen are named as British ships Glenartney and Suffolk, and the American vessels Agwimonte and Alcoa Prospector. They are accompanied by the cruiser Orion and destroyers Belvoir, Hursley, Pakenham, Petard and Queen Olga (the Greek ship RHS Vassilissa Olga), who were sailed from Alexandria to Port Said to await the arrival of the supply ships. Codenamed Operation Portcullis, convoy MW 14 was delayed by fog at Ismailia which has now cleared.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 1 DECEMBER TO DAWN 2 DECEMBER 1942

Weather Fair.

0720-0800 hrs; 0835-0910 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali at a time on standing patrol: no enemy aircraft sighted.

1142 hrs Air raid alert for approaching enemy aircraft. Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept but the raiders turned back before they are seen, and while still 20 miles north east of the Grand Harbour.

1155-1305; 1335-1425 hrs; 1425-1535 hrs 12 Spitfire sorties 185 Squadron Hal Far: nothing sighted.

1330-1350 hrs Air raid alert for four approaching ME 109s which circle over Grand Harbour at a great height before receding north. Pointer rounds are fired by six Ack Ack gun positions. Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept but the raiders are too high to engage and avoid combat.

1350 hrs One transit Wellington from the Middle East carried out an anti-submarine patrol.

1600-1710 hrs Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron are airborne to act as cover for Spitfire bombers of 249 Squadron. They are attacked by enemy fighters and take evasive action: P/O Mowbray is reported missing.

Military casualties Flying Officer John Mowbray, Royal Canadian Air Force, 229 Squadron; Warrant Officer Class II (CSM) Berkley Evans, 1st Battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment; Private Alfred Syddall, 8th Battalion, Manchester Regiment.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Una swept in from patrol by Speedy.

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Wellingtons from Benghazi; one Baltimore from LG 227; one Spitfire from Benina. Departures Two Hudsons to Gibraltar; one Beaufighter to Heliopolis; one Hurricane to Bone. Aircraft casualties One Beaufighter crash landed due to engine failure: two crew slightly injured. One Beaufort missing from operations: crew missing. One Spitfire believed forced down into sea by enemy action: pilot missing. One Wellington force landed: crew uninjured.

HAL FAR 0640-0735 hrs Four Spitfire bombers with four Spitfires as close escort, all 185 Squadron, were dispatched to bomb Comiso aerodrome. Bomber leader suffered engine cut when still 20 miles south of Sicily so jettisoned his bombs and returned. The remainder of the bomber formation followed suit. The escort then set course to Noto and returned: nothing seen. 1000 hrs Hurricane left for Bone.

Albacore pilot prepares for night raid (c) IWM A161612

1827-0030 hrs One special Albacore and three strike Albacores carried out a torpedo attack on enemy shipping off the west coast of Sicily. 1925-0040 hrs Two special Albacores and five strike Albacores 821 Fleet Air Arm Squadron were dispatched to attack the same convoy but failed to locate the vessels. 2255 hrs Fleet Air Arm Albacores damaged a tanker in a convoy of four merchant vessels and five destroyers when fifteen miles south of Marittimo at 2255. Sub/Lt Pratt and Sub/Lt Kendrick scored one hit on a 6-7000 ton tanker which was left ablaze.

LUQA Personnel arrivals: 25 Other Ranks. Three sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron on aerodromes and harbours of Naples, Taranto, Messina, Palermo and Trapani. 2215 hrs Three Beaufighters 89 Squadron patrolled the area of Gabes-Tunis.

TA QALI 29 airmen detached from Station to 39 Squadron, Luqa. 0800-0905 hrs Ten Spitfires 249 Squadron, including six bombers, carried out a bombing raid on Biscari aerodromes: explosions are seen on the airfield. 0905-1325 hrs Two Beaufighters 272 Squadron on offensive sweep sighted two unidentified aircraft: no engagement. 1040-1145 hrs Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron on reconnaissance patrol: no sightings. 1155-1635 hrs Two Beaufighters 272 Squadron on offensive patrol, one carrying bombs. One crashed just after take-off: crew uninjured. 1530-1815 hrs Two Beaufighters 227 Squadron on offensive sweep attacked a merchant vessel and set the deck cargo on fire. 1545-1655 hrs Ten Spitfires 249 Squadron, including six bombers, carried out a bombing raid on Gela aerodrome: bombs were seen to explode in the north west dispersal area.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT Working party provided for administrative and crater-filling duties at Hal Far: four 15 cwt lorries, two impressed lorries, two motor cycles, 16 Other Ranks.

2^nd Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT Five 1 ton, two 30 cwt, one 3 ton lorries provided for special service Zabbar.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged at sub-depot. 6 Officers, 200 Other Ranks engaged on aircraft pen construction at Qrendi.

24 FORTRESS COMPANY ROYAL ENGINEERS Company billeted at Bahar-ic-Cahaq (less No 1 section on DEL stations with HQ at Haywharf, No 2 Section building pens at Qrendi and Maltese details working in barracks, attached to Bomb Disposal, or on convoy duties).

2 December 1942: Convoy Rescues RAF Crew Adrift in Dinghy

OPERATION PORTCULLIS CONVOY ASSEMBLES IN MED

HMS Orion

The cruiser HMS Orion escorted by destroyers Paladin, Dulverton, Exmoor, Hurworth, Aldenham and the Greek Pindos sailed from Alexandria today to rendezvous with the convoy heading for Malta. Late this afternoon Hurworth was found to have defects; at 1800 hrs she left the convoy to return to Alexandria.

Later this evening Petard spotted a small boat adrift on the sea. It was identified as an RAF dinghy and its six occupants were rescued and taken aboard the destroyer.

Following a report from Vice Admiral Malta that furnace fuel was urgently required, a last-minute decision has been taken to include a tanker in the convoy. A vessel which had been originally intended for a later convoy to Malta will now depart immediately from Benghazi. Destroyers HMS Croome and Tetcott are on their way from Malta to Benghazi to act as escort for the tanker.

MALTA NAVAL FORCES IN COMBINED ATTACK

HMS Jervis

Royal Navy ships have wasted no time in returning to the offensive following their arrival in Malta last Friday. Destroyers Jervis, Javelin, Kelvin and Nubian launched a joint operation with Naval Air Squadrons to attack a convoy off Kerkennah.

The ships sailed at 1400 hrs this afternoon to intercept the enemy convoy of one tanker and two merchant ships, escorted by two torpedo boats and a destroyer, as they steered for Ras Turgeuness. At 2100 hrs aircraft of the Fleet Air Arm and HM Submarine P 35 attacked the convoy south of Kerkennah and sank two merchant ships, seriously damaging another vessel.

The Force K destroyers arrived on the scene shortly after midnight and sank a torpedo boat destroyer which was engaged in picking up survivors from one of the merchant ships.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 2 DECEMBER TO 3 DECEMBER 1942

Weather Fair.

No air raid alerts.

0625-0725 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far patrol over the Island: nothing sighted.

0700-0815 hrs Two Spitfires 229 Squadron search for a missing pilot: no sighting.

Military casualties Sub-Lieutenant William Guy, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, HMS St Angelo; Sub-Lieutenant Colin Taylor, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, HMS St Angelo.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 2 DECEMBER 1942

HMS Trooper

AIR HQ Arrivals One Wellington from LG 104; one DC 3 from El Adem. Departures One Hurricane to Bone. Aircraft casualties One Albacore lost on operations: crew missing.

HAL FAR 1500 hrs One Hurricane RNAS which left for Bone yesterday returned: mission accomplished. 1730-2315 hrs Three Albacores RNAS and eight 821 Squadron were despatched to attack two 5000 ton merchant vessels, one cruiser, one destroyer and one sloop in the Gulf of Gabes. Both merchant ships were hit and left burning: fires could be seen 70 miles away on the return journey. One Albacore landed at Luqa; another is missing, along with crew S/Lt Taylor and S/Lt Guy.

LUQA No operations.

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY All drivers report to sub-depots for convoy unloading duties.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT Working party provided for administrative and crater-filling duties at Hal Far: four 15 cwt lorries, two impressed lorries, two motor cycles, 16 Other Ranks.

2^nd Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT Five 1 ton, two 30 cwt, one 3 ton lorries provided for special service Zabbar. Four 1 ton lorries, one Officer, 78 men on fatigue at Ta Qali.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT COs conference on establishment of new dumps to be formed at Floriana under 2^nd RWK called Pink Dump and at Attard under 2^nd Bn Royal Irish Fusiliers called White Dump.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged at sub-depot. 6 Officers, 200 Other Ranks engaged on aircraft pen construction at Qrendi.

3 December 1942: Tanker Joins Operation Portcullis Convoy

ESCORT STRENGTHENED AS SHIPS APPROACH MALTA

HMS Tetcott

Minelayer HMS Welshman joined the Operation Portcullis convoy at daylight today on her way to Malta, taking advantage of the escort protection. Then at 1700 hrs this afternoon the American tanker Yorba Linda, escorted by destroyers Croome and Tetcott linked up with the main convoy north east of Benghazi. Soon afterwards, Welshman left the remaining ships to speed on ahead to Malta.

To cover the final approach of Convoy MW 14 to the Island, Force K cruisers Cleopatra, Dido and Euryalus with destroyers Jervis, Kelvin and Nubian were sailed from Grand Harbour this evening. They will provide protection for the convoy against possible surface attack.

US LIBERATORS ATTACK ITALIAN BATTLE FLEET

US Liberator bombers from the Middle East today attacked Italian ships in the Bay of Naples, sinking the Muzio Attendolo and damaging two other warships. The Italian cruiser was photographed yesterday undergoing trials in the Bay of Naples, following recent repairs.

Italian light cruiser Muzio Attendolo

Major units of the Italian fleet have been observed gathered in southern Italian ports from where they could threaten Allied sea movements through the Mediterranean, including convoys which might attempt the run to Malta. As well as Attendolo, three Littorio battleships and two other cruisers are presently at Naples; five other cruisers are in port at Messina and three battleships at Taranto.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 3 DECEMBER TO DAWN 4 DECEMBER 1942

Weather Mainly fine; fair.

No air raid alerts.

1030-1215 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1039-1131 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far patrol north of base at 25000 feet: nothing seen.

1440-1525 hrs; 1550-1635 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron at a time on intercept patrol: nothing sighted.

Military casualties Sergeant Everard Aspell, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR), 108 Squadron; Sergeant Ronald Semley, RAF VR, 40 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals One Hurricane from Bone; one Beaufighter from Gambut; one DC 3 from El Adem; one Hudson from Gibraltar. Departures One DC 3 to El Adem. Aircraft casualties One Wellington’s bombs hung up and exploded while aircraft was taxiing: two of crew killed, rest uninjured.

Hurricanes at Hal Far

HAL FAR 1150 hrs One Hurricane RNAS landed from a special mission. He was attacked 50 miles off Kerkennah by one JU 88. The enemy aircraft overshot and the Hurricane was able to counter-attack with several short gun bursts: claims one JU 88 damaged.

1840-0010 hrs One special Albacore and three strike Albacores 821 Squadron were sent to attack enemy shipping off the coast of Sicily. Two 3000 ton merchant vessels were located 44 miles off Zuara moving at 8 knots. Both ships were hit by torpedoes and blown up. 1900-2005 hrs One special Albacore and three strike Albacores 821 Squadron were sent to attack the tanker hit last night and since reported stationary 10 miles west of Marittimo. The tanker was not located; only two hospital ships were seen in the area. All torpedoes were brought back.

LUQA No operations.

TA QALI 0835-1330 hrs Six Beaufighters 227 Squadron on offensive sweep: no sightings. 0835-1145 hrs Six Beaufighters 272 Squadron on offensive sweep sighted one JU 88 which is destroyed by F/Lt Rankin and F/O Coate. 0445-1000 hrs Four Beaufighters 272 Squadron are airborne to act as convoy escort: no sightings.

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Battalion provided a working party of 3 Officers and 200 Other Ranks for pen building on Qrendi aerodrome.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT Working party provided for administrative and crater-filling duties at Hal Far: four 15 cwt lorries, two impressed lorries, two motor cycles, 16 Other Ranks.

2^nd Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT Five 1 ton, two 30 cwt, one 3 ton lorries provided for special service Zabbar. Four 1 ton lorries, one Officer, 78 men on fatigue at Ta Qali. Three Officers reported daily to APM for traffic duties.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS Personnel engaged on co-operational duties (maintenance, refuelling, arming etc) with RAF at Luqa aerodrome, taken over from 2^nd Bn Royal Irish Fusiliers. 57 drivers engaged at motor transport sub-depot.

4 December 1942: HMS Welshman Arrives Safely

WELSHMAN REPORTS MED QUIET FOR PASSAGE OF PORTCULLIS

HMS Welshman enters Grand Harbour

HMS Welshman arrived in Grand Harbour today having left Convoy MW 14 yesterday evening. The minelayer reported an incident-free passage through the Mediterranean. Conditions appear favourable for the progress of the convoy.

Force K signalled at daylight that all vessels have joined up safely with Operation Portcullis the convoy and will remain in close escort throughout the day. The ships are now within reach of Malta aircraft which will mount a constant escort for the remainder of their passage to Grand Harbour. The arrival of Welshman has already attracted the attention of enemy aircraft which approached the Island on reconnaissance twice, triggering first air raid alerts in three days.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 4 DECEMBER TO DAWN 5 DECEMBER 1942

Weather Fair to fine.

0740-1245 hrs Four Beaufighters 227 Squadron are airborne to act as escort for the approaching convoy (one returned early): no sightings.

1025-1041 hrs Air raid alert for ten ME 109s which cross the coast over the Grand Harbour area at a height of 25000 feet, apparently on reconnaissance. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds. Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne and see five unidentified aircraft making smoke trails north and south of Malta at 28000 feet. On sighting the Spitfires below them, the enemy raiders turn northwards for home.

1100 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron Luqa searches for the friendly convoy.

1400 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron searches in the Cape Bon area.

1440-1610 hrs One Beaufighter 227 Squadron is airborne to act as escort to the convoy: nothing sighted.

1452-1507 hrs Air raid alert for three ME 109s which approach the Island at 26000 feet and fly over Grand Harbour. Ack Ack fire pointer rounds. Four Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: they see the three ME 109s over Grand Harbour at 22000 feet. The enemy aircraft dive away over the coast to avoid combat.

1535-1630 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1600-1730 hrs; 1630-1750 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron at a time are airborne to act as escort to the convoy: no sightings.

Night One air raid alert: aircraft are identified as friendly.

Military casualties Flight Lieutenant Andrew Breakey, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR), 18 Squadron; Flying Officer Robert Curtis, RAF VR, 81 Squadron; Flight Sergeant Sidney Greene, RAF VR, 18 Squadron; Flight Sergeant Arthur Simpson, RAF VR, 18 Squadron; Sergeant Peter Turner, RAF VR, 81 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 1942

HMS Porpoise arrives Malta (NWMA Malta)

ROYAL NAVY Hythe swept HMS Welshman and P 35 in, and Porpoise out to head for refit in the UK via Gibraltar. Four MTBs arrived from Bone. Naval aircraft attacked shipping in the Zuara area. Two merchant ships were hit, one of which sank in three minutes; the other was left burning.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Wellington from LG 237; one Beaufighter from Souk El Arba; eight Hudsons, one DC 3 from El Adem; two Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures One DC 3 to LG 224; one Hudson to Algiers; eight Hudsons to El Adem.

LUQA 0900 hrs Six sorties flown by photo-reconnaissance of 69 Squadron. 1930 hrs One Beaufighter 39 Squadron patrolled over Comiso aerodrome at 32000 feet: no enemy aircraft seen. 1700-2225 hrs Six Wellingtons 40 Squadron and four 104 Squadron bombed the docks at La Goulette, Tunis.

TA QALI 249 Squadron operating from RAF Qrendi. Air crew remain attached to Ta Qali for accommodation and rations only. 26 airmen arrived by air from Middle East.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT HMS Welshman arrived No 5 Dock approx 0830 hrs. Unloading commenced about 0915 hrs. Bn provided 200 Other Ranks alongside 100 Other Ranks Dorsets. Cargo was extremely difficult as it contained fifty 21” torpedoes among a miscellaneous cargo. The torpedoes were unloaded last so the whole operation was hampered. The ship was not cleared until 1900 hrs.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT Working party provided for administrative and crater-filling duties at Hal Far: four 15 cwt lorries, two impressed lorries, two motor cycles, 16 Other Ranks.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Floriana Pink Dump and Attard White Dump marked out for reception of convoy cargoes.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS Personnel engaged on maintenance, refuelling, arming etc with RAF at Luqa aerodrome. 63 drivers engaged at motor transport sub-depot.

5 December 1942: The Siege of Malta is Lifted

OPERATION PORTCULLIS CONVOY ARRIVES UNMOLESTED

Convoys now have safe passage to Malta under Allied air protection (c) IWM A13678

At dawn today the four merchant ships Glenartney, Suffolk, Alcoa Prospector and Agwimonte, and the tanker Yorba Linda were safely in the shelter of Grand Harbour. Commanders of Operation Portcullis report that, in spite of being shadowed at various times during the voyage, they encountered no enemy attacks throughout the entire passage from Alexandria.

By 10 am the remaining ships of the convoy escort had entered Grand Harbour, bringing the number of warships and merchant vessels in the harbour to over 40.

Two of the merchant ships are being unloaded by Army personnel and two by civil labour, who are working with great enthusiasm. Approximately 3200 soldiers are employed on unloading and dispersing the cargoes to dumps. A further 1800 are assisting the RAF in maintenance of aircraft and airfields to ensure the protection of Malta’s air space and offensive ops during unloading. However, no attempt was made by the enemy to attack the ships in harbour, or even to approach the Island on reconnaissance during the day.

MALTA’S SUPPLY ROUTES SECURE

The arrival of a tanker with much-needed fuel relieves the concerns of military leaders. More importantly, the second delivery of food and general supplies in a matter of days brings the chance of a real increase in civilian rations. This should improve morale and help to stem the decline in the general health of the population which is giving real cause for concern. The inclusion of a few long absent luxuries among the essentials brought a smile to many faces.

The siege is over but much of Malta lies in ruins

Malta’s commanders are cautiously taking the unhampered passage of Operation Portcullis as an indication that future supplies can be carried through without significant risk. Since January 1941 two aircraft carriers, twenty warships and several submarines have been lost in attempts to supply the Island.

It has now been decided to run regular pairs of merchant ships for Malta alongside ordinary Western Desert Convoys to the Benghazi area, where surface forces from the Island will reinforce the escort for their final passage. The supply of Malta – almost impossible a month ago – is now all but secure. The siege is over.

SITUATION REPORT FOR WEEK ENDING 5 DECEMBER 1942

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: C in C Middle East Rept: The War Office

1. Enemy air: four daylight alerts for enemy fighters on reconnaissance.

2. Convoy of four merchant vessels and one tanker escorted by cruisers and destroyers arrived safely am 5 December. Unloading is proceeding well: 3200 Army personnel employed; a further 1800 on aerodromes.

3. Spitfire bombers successfully attacked aerodromes Comiso, Gela and Biscari. Spitfire close escort damaged one Macchi 200. Beaufighters on daylight offensive sweeps area Tunisia destroyed two Cant Z ‘06 and damaged two more at moorings. One Italian bomber, one transport damaged on the ground. One JU 88 destroyed; three transports, two fighters damaged in combat. Coaster 1100 tons, two destroyers, goods trains and lorries effectively shot up. Merchant vessel 1100 tons set on fire and abandoned. Two direct hits bombs causing violent explosion merchant vessel off Pantelleria.

Wellington bombers

By night approx 45 Wellington sorties docks Bizerta 23 sorties docks Tunisia. Also successful attacks Catania, Trapani, Comiso and Gerbini. Bombs dropped areas Ragusa, Augusta, Syracuse, Gela and Castel Vetrano. Beaufighters bombed railways Tunis and shot up trains. Reggio di Calabria attacked by two Beaufighters. Beauforts laid mines entrance Bizerta, Tunis and Palermo harbours. Albacores on shipping strikes sank two merchant vessels 5000 tons, blew up merchant vessel 3000 tons and set two other merchant vessels and a tanker on fire. Other results unobserved. Four destroyers Force K sank one enemy TBD.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 5 DECEMBER TO DAWN 6 DECEMBER 1942

Weather Cloudy.

No air raid alerts.

0620-0940 hrs Six aircraft 126 Squadron Luqa maintain a patrol for the arrival of a convoy.

0800-0915 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on standing patrol: no sightings.

0845-1010 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far carry out shipping patrol: nothing seen.

1150-1310 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron on standing patrol over the Island: nothing seen.

1335-1510 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron on standing patrol: no sightings.

1455-1550 hrs; 1630-1725 hrs Eight Spitfires 185 Squadron on standing patrols over the Island: nothing seen.

Military casualties Pilot Officer John MacDonald, Royal Australian Air Force; Sergeant Thomas Mincher, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 93 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 5 DECEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Hebe swept P 35 to sea. P 42 was swept in from patrol by HM 135. 1600 hrs HMS Welshman sailed for Alexandria with Paladin.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Halifax from UK; ten Hudsons from El Adem. Departures One DC 3 to El Adem; two Hudsons to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Baltimore overshot aerodrome and crash landed due to engine failure: crew uninjured. One Wellington crashed into another aircraft while landing: crew uninjured.

HAL FAR 2100-0100 hrs Two Albacores 821 Squadron were despatched to bomb and illuminate for Beaufighters at Reggio di Calabria aerodrome. One Albacore returned early with rear cockpit trouble; the other arrived too late over the target to contact the Beaufighters but dropped its bombs on the new corner of the aerodrome.

LUQA Four sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires. 1400 hrs Two Beaufighters 89 Squadron were despatched to attack Reggio Calabria. One Beaufighter was slightly damaged by Ack Ack splinters: crew unhurt. Night One special Wellington carried out a shipping search in the Marittimo-Cavoli area: no sightings.

TA QALI One senior NCO and four airmen arrived by air from Middle East. 0955-1130 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron on reconnaissance patrol: no sightings. 1140-1425 hrs Three Beaufighters 272 Squadron on offensive reconnaissance: no sightings. 1345-1640 hrs Four Beaufighters 227 Squadron (one carrying bombs) on offensive reconnaissance attacked an enemy destroyer causing a small explosion and fire near the bridge.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT A convoy arrived at dawn. 1100 hrs The Bn began unloading the Glenartney at Hamilton Wharf in 3 shifts of 84 Other Ranks. The vessel is carrying 8000 tons of cargo. Unloading went well during the day.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT 6 Officers, 107 Other Ranks unloading M/V Alcoa Prospector.

Agwimonte

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY The Bn was detailed to provide: 3 Officers, 42 Other Ranks to report at 1000 hrs for traffic control; 5 fire-fighting parties of 1 Officer, 13 Other Ranks each, to live on board the merchant ships; 42 drivers, 6 vehicles, 3 Officers, 150 Other Ranks as general reserve. 2200 hrs Fire-fighting parties reported to allotted berths and went on board the following vessels: Alcoa Prospector, Glenartney, Agwimonte, Suffolk, Yorba Linda.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Arrival of convoy: Bn in position on Pink Dump in two shifts of 12 hours, day and night. Total employed 14 Officers, 200 Other Ranks on Dump plus 2 Officers, 51 Other Ranks on motor transport sub-depot.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS Personnel engaged on maintenance, refuelling, arming etc with RAF at Luqa aerodrome. 63 drivers engaged at motor transport sub-depot.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 8. Dealt with: High Explosives 1 x 50kg; anti-personnel bombs 8.

All written content © maltagc70 unless otherwise attributed. For conditions of use contact bdmalta@btinternet.com

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Posted by maltagc70 on December 5, 2022 in 1942, December 1942, November 1942

Tags: 126 Squadron, 1435 Squadron, 185 Squadron, 227 Squadron, 229 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 272 Squadron, Agwimonte, Alcoa Prospector, bomb disposal, Convoy MW 14, Fleet Air Arm, Glenartney, Malta, Operation Portcullis, Royal Air Force, Royal Engineers, Suffolk, war diary, Welshman, World War 2, Yorba Linda

22-28 November 1942: Convoy Brings Only 3 Week Supply as Polio Strikes Malta

28 Nov

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22 November 1942: Malta Troops Stealth Mission to North Africa

ORDERS TO SAIL FOR ‘FRENCH PORT’

HMS Welshman

1^st Battalion Durham Light Infantry received orders today to make ready to move tomorrow. Carrying only fighting-scale equipment, the Battalion are to embark with Royal Engineers and seven detachments of Breda 49mm guns by Welshman and Manxman and one destroyer. Their destination is top secret, referred to only as ‘a certain port’.

The port in question – believed to be in North Africa – has a population of French, Italian and Maltese, and military planners hope that the British troops will receive a friendly reception. The plan is to land them from the destroyers’ lifeboats and skiffs instead of the usual military landing craft. The troops will then aim to persuade the French forces in the port to support the allies, and with their help hold the town until the Battalion could be joined by larger Allied forces advancing on land towards the area.

At 1015 hrs this morning the Commanding Officer of 1^st Bn Durham Light Infantry joined a conference at Fortress HQ with captains of the naval ships, Brigade command and Admiral i/c Malta, after which the Battalion’s Platoon Commanders were fully briefed. Early this evening the CO confirmed that the Battalion was to move in motor transport to the docks at 1230 hrs tomorrow. Parties were already at the docks and Ordnance Depots, loading up rations, stores and ammunition.

But at 2015 hrs a message was received from the HQ of 4 Brigade cancelling the entire operation. The reason is as yet unknown.

SUBMARINE DELIVERS THE GOODS

HMS Thrasher

HMS Thrasher arrived in Malta today from Beirut, carrying a cargo of aviation fuel [avgas] as well as stores and passengers. The submarine’s tanks had been modified to enable her to carry the maximum amount of avgas. HM Submarine Traveller, which has been similarly adapted and loaded, left Beirut the same day and is expected at Malta tomorrow. The deliveries will help reduce the shortage of the fuel on the Island and keep its air forces operational until a tanker can get through.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 22 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 23 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Showery.

No air raid alerts.

0610-0700 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far carry out an anti E-boat patrol off the coast of south east Sicily: nothing sighted. One Spitfire is hit by machine gunfire from a ME 109 and seen to dive into the sea five miles south west of Pachino, leaving no trace. F/O Maynard is killed.

0625-1715 hrs Twenty Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are airborne with other squadrons to provide a standing patrol over Malta: no enemy aircraft seen.

0625-0740 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol: no sightings.

0720-0825 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron patrol over Malta: nothing sighted.

0815-0930 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol: no sightings.

1100-1220 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron on patrol: no sightings.

1200-1325 hrs; 1345-1450 hrs; 1440-1540 hrs Twelve sorties of Spitfires 185 Squadron: nothing sighted.

1500-1620 hrs Twelve Spitfires 229 Squadron are airborne to act as cover for Spitfire bombers but did not make contact.

1515-1615 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron are airborne to act as cover for Spitfires and Beaufighters returning from operations: no sightings.

Military casualties Lance Corporal James Humphreys, 226 Provost Company, Corps of Military Police; Flying Officer Anthony Maynard, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 185 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Birkirkara Vincent Sciberras, age 44.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 22 NOVEMBER 1942

HMS Turbulent (L)

ROYAL NAVY Thrasher was swept in by Hebe, who then swept Turbulent to sea. Euryalus and ten Hunts sailed for Port Said.

AIR HQ A message from the Navy: “Thank you very much for your signal and for the support your fighters gave us. To have helped Malta in her gallant battle is a great honour.”

Arrivals Two Beauforts from Gambut; one Hudson from Gibraltar; four Wellingtons from LG 104. Departures One Liberator to LG 224; one Hudson to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed in enemy territory: pilot killed. One Beaufighter crash-landed on aerodrome: crew injured. One Beaufighter shot down by anti-aircraft fire: crew seen in dinghy.

LUQA 1200-1315 hrs Three Spitfire bombers 126 Squadron Luqa, escorted by eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron were dispatched to attack Comiso aerodrome: bombs were observed hitting the runway. No enemy aircraft were seen: all aircraft returned safely. A total of 10 Beaufighter sorties on reconnaissance patrols: one Cant Z 506B, two JU 88s and three SM 82s destroyed; one JU 90, one SM 82 damaged; one Beaufighter missing.

Night Eight Wellington sorties targeted Bizerta docks. Attacks were successful but hampered by rain and low cloud. Five special Wellingtons 69 Squadron carrying torpedoes were sent to attack a 5000 ton motor vessel. F/Lt Dokersley scored a direct hit amidships. Four Beaufighters were despatched on a low-flying attack on Palermo: one small fire was started. One Beaufighter is missing, two damaged.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Convoy unloading progressing well: all cargo should be discharged by Wednesday evening.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Bn continues unloading convoy. One Officer employed at Red Dump.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Convoy unloading proceeding satisfactorily. Relief party commences work at Pink Dump to give personnel 24 hours leave.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged on convoy duties with additional 6 Officers, 250 Other Ranks as Brigade reserve.

10^th Bn KINGS OWN MALTA REGIMENT Working parties at Pink Dump: A and HQ Coys.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS BOMB DISPOSAL UXB reported 29 October-22 November 172.

23 November 1942: Operation Breastplate

The secret mission which was planned for today involving units from Durham Light Infantry and the Royal Engineers has been revealed as codename ‘Operation Breastplate’. The project is the brainchild of American military leaders who have requested help from Malta in securing the north-south coastal corridor in Tunisia as part of Operation Torch. The target port has been named as Sousse.

Lord Gort

Today Welshman was ordered to disembark the army guns, stores, and extra boats which had been loaded for the operation which was called off last night. It is believed that Malta’s Governor and Commander in Chief, Lord Gort, has come out against the plan, doubting its potential to succeed. He is understood to be concerned at the risk to the Malta-based forces, armed with minimum equipment and weakened by months of severely reduced rations. Lord Gort has counselled deferral, at least until a full convoy arrives and is unloaded safely in Malta, to strengthen the Island’s forces and replace resources taken up by Breastplate.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 23 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 24 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Cloudy; slight rain afternoon and evening.

No air raid alerts.

0625-0720 hrs; 0715-0820 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron, then four 249 Squadron Ta Qali on standing patrol over the Island: no sightings. Thick cloud at 6000 feet.

0900-1030 hrs Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa and four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne for reported incoming raiders which do not approach Malta.

1100-1150 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne to act as cover for returning Spitfires.

1110-1150 hrs Eight sorties by Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far: nothing sighted.

1230-1335 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings. One Spitfire develops engine trouble at 6-7000 feet: pilot Sgt Wallace is heard over the radio saying he is bailing out.

1425-1355 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1445-1730 hrs Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron search for missing pilot: no sightings.

Military casualties Sergeant Thomas Catchpole, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR), 114 Squadron; Flight Lieutenant Carl Johnson, RAF VR, 227 Squadron; Flying Officer John Mathias, RAF VR, 114 Squadron; Flying Officer Douglas Truscott, RAF VR, 114 Squadron; Sergeant Thomas Wallace, RAF VR, 229 Squadron; Sergeant Ralph Webb, RAF, 227 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 23 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Speedy swept Traveller in from sea.

AIR HQ Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar; one DC 3, three Beauforts to LG 224. Aircraft casualties Four Beaufighters missing from operations: crews missing. One Beaufighter shot down by enemy: crew missing. One Swordfish crashed in sea due to engine failure: crew saved. One Spitfire crashed in sea: pilot missing.

LUQA Message received from AOC RAF Malta: “I am very grateful for the kind message of congratulations and thank all ranks Luqa for their loyal and enthusiastic support during the past five months.”

Heinkel HE 115

0701-1115 hrs Two sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron covering Messina, and harbours and aerodromes in Tunisia. Two sorties by Baltimores 69 Squadron for weather reconnaissance Tripoli. 0805-1230 hrs Four Beaufighters carried out a sweep in the Sousse-Sfax area: one HE 115, one Cant 506 destroyed; one schooner shot up. 1026-1200 hrs Three Beauforts 39 Squadron escorted by two Beaufighters were dispatched on practice bombing of Lampedusa: results not observed Light Ack Ack was encountered but all aircraft returned safely.

0100-0531 hrs Three special Wellingtons 69 Squadron on separate shipping search in Cape Bon-Bizerta area. A special torpedo-carrying Wellington on offensive reconnaissance for shipping in the waters between western Sicily and southern Sardinia found a small merchant vessel, leading two 5000 ton merchant vessels, 88 miles east of Capo Carbonara heading west. The Wellington made a successful torpedo attack on the leading vessel, scoring a hit amidships. The merchant vessel was later sunk by gunfire from one of Malta’s submarines.

TA QALI 0805-1230 hrs Four Beaufighters 272 Squadron on offensive sweep: Sgt Tucknell destroys one HE 115; F/O Coate destroys one Cant. Visibility poor over the sea with showers; clear over the Island.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT The night shift did extremely well, discharging well over 700 tons. Total cargo discharged to date (1700 hrs today): 4674 tons.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Convoy duties continue.

1^ST Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Re-organisation and re-issue of kit stored [in readiness for aborted mission]. Night Three Officers and 140 Other Ranks were detailed for a 12 hour shift and worked throughout the night unloading flour from lighters at the docks. One Sgt and six L/Cpls are reporting daily to the APM Valletta to assist the CMPs Valletta. One Officer and 50 Other Ranks standing by for crater filling at Qrendi.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT Bn provided 8 Officers, 230 Other Ranks unloading M/V Robin Locksley. One Other Rank attached to 1^st Bn Cheshire Regt as extra Tally Clerk.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Convoy work confined to unloading and storing of air force and motor transport petrol.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged on convoy duties with additional 6 Officers, 250 Other Ranks as Brigade reserve.

10^th ACK ACK BRIGADE Operation Instruction issued modifying aerodrome barrages for Heavy Ack Ack gun lay-out and to keep runways free from shell splinters while still protecting them.

10^th Bn KINGS OWN MALTA REGIMENT Working parties at Pink Dump: A and HQ Coys.

24 November 1942: Malta Submarines ‘Torch’ Attacks Leave Axis Ships Ablaze

HMS Porpoise

Three submarines returned to Malta today after successful operations in support of Operation Torch. HMS Porpoise has just completed a short patrol in the Khoms–Misurata area. Five days ago she she torpedoed and sank a tanker which had been stopped by an aerial torpedo attack the previous day. At 1016 yesterday, off the Kerkennah Bank, Porpoise launched a gunfire attack on the 730 ton Italian naval auxiliary Giacomo. The vessel, which was carrying benzene, quickly caught fire and was abandoned. Enemy aircraft interrupted the operation before Porpoise could pick up more than two prisoners.

HMS P 211 (Safari) under Commander B Bryant, DSC returned to Malta from a very successful patrol off the East Tunisian coast in the Gulf of Sirte during which the submarine steamed a total of 2800 miles. At 1431 hrs on 13 November she gunned and sank the Italian auxiliary brigantine Bice five miles off Sousse. Only the Captain of the Bice was taken prisoner; he was found to be carrying secret papers, including the week’s recognition signals for Italian aircraft and minor war vessels. The brigantine’s remaining ten survivors were left in their boat and are said to have given P 211 an enthusiastic send off on her departure.

P 211 HMS Safari

Three days later P 211 torpedoed a 2500 ton merchant vessel at Ras el Ali anchorage. The merchantman blew up in a sheet of flame and was still burning twenty four hours later causing the anchorage to be shut down. At dawn next morning, P 211 fired a torpedo at a concentration of small vessels near the pier. The torpedo exploded at the landing place and an ammunition lighter blew up. The same evening the submarine torpedoed and sank a schooner in the south western corner of Marsa el Brega.

In the early morning of 18 November a small light vessel with no crew was sunk by gunfire from the submarine, 10 miles from Ras el Ali. Later that morning, P 211 gunned an enemy tank landing craft (LCT), silencing one of its guns and causing ammunition to explode. Then two days ago, at 1156 on 22 November, P 211 gunned another LCT two miles south of Ras el Sultan, scoring two hits. After ten minutes, the action was broken off, all ammunition having been expended.

P 247

HMS P 247 (Saracen) was also guided into Malta today, having followed Operation Torch with a patrol of the approaches to Tunis and Bizerta. At 1644 on the 5 November she torpedoed and sank an Italian Cobalto Class U boat at a range of 800 yards. Despite passing through much oil and wreckage; the submarine could find no survivors.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 24 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 25 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Showery; thunderstorms at night.

0645-0740 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa renewed the search for Sgt Wallace who bailed out yesterday. Nothing was seen of a dinghy or pilot.

0735-0845 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on a standing patrol to protect shipping in Grand Harbour: no enemy aircraft seen.

0735-1640 hrs Spitfires of 126 Squadron and other squadrons are airborne on a standing patrol over Grand Harbour: no enemy aircraft seen.

0745-0845 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron search for Sgt Wallace: no sightings.

0825-0930 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on standing patrol: no sightings.

1115-1140 hrs Air raid alert for 15 ME 109s approaching the Island at a great height: a few cross the coast on a fighter sweep. Ack Ack fire pointer rounds: no claims. Two Spitfires 229 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: they dive to attack a ME 109 but it gets away. Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are also scrambled and turn to chase ME 109s but are jumped by Macchi 202s: no combats. The remaining enemy raiders are driven off by Spitfires.

1300-1350 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on standing patrol: no sightings.

1335-1440 hrs Four sorties of Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far: nothing sighted.

1440-1545 hrs Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron are airborne to act as cover for returning Spitfires: no enemy aircraft sighted.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 24 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P 211, P 247 and Porpoise were swept in by Hythe.

AIR HQ A total of 18 Wellington sorties: target Bizerta docks. Due to poor visibility, not all aircraft dropped bombs. Some bombs were seen to burst in the target area. Five torpedo-carrying Wellingtons on enemy shipping search: one merchant vessel was hit and seen to be down by the stern. Arrivals Two Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures One Beaufighter, two Hudsons to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Beaufighter failed to return from operations: crew missing.

HAL FAR 0910-1020 hrs; 0920-1045 hrs; 1145-1305 hrs 12 sorties of Spitfires 185 Squadron, including an intruder raid over Lampedusa and a fighter sweep of Comiso area: nothing seen.

Malta bombers attack Sicilian airfield (c) IWM MH8054

LUQA 0700-1635 hrs Four sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron covering harbours at Naples, Messina, Palermo and Cagliari. Night One special Wellington 69 Squadron despatched on shipping search in Cavoli-Marittimo area: nothing of importance to report.

TA QALI 0750-1155 hrs Four Beaufighters 272 Squadron carried out offensive reconnaissance of the Gulf of Tripoli: W/Cdr Buchanan destroyed one JU 52 and at least ten khaki-clad figures were seen in the water. 1300-1605 hrs Three Beaufighters 272 Squadron carried out an offensive sweep: F/O Coate destroyed one BV 222 and damaged one DO 24. 1420-1525 hrs Seven Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali carried out a bombing sweep of Gela aerodrome. Bad weather prevents all but one of the Spitfires from releasing bombs on target. Explosions are not seen due to heavy cloud at 5000 feet.

Night Five Beaufighters carrying bombs attacked docks at Palermo. Only one aircraft located the target due to bad weather: no results observed. One aircraft is missing. Four Beauforts made two sorties and laid mines in enemy waters.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Great difficulty is being experienced unloading the 100 Octane petrol. The fumes are very bad and men can only work for a short time in the hold.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Convoy duties continue.

1^ST Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY 42 drivers reported to sub-depots for convoy duties. A detail of 40 men were sent to Brown Dump for a 12 hour shift and afterwards 20 were maintained there by D Company as unloading party till 1200 hrs on 26^th.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT 10 Officers, 232 Other Ranks unloading M/V Robin Locksley.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT All dumps still reduced in activity as priority given to unloading of petrol from convoy. Commodities from dumps being removed to RASC and civilian stores.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged on convoy duties with additional 6 Officers, 250 Other Ranks as Brigade reserve.

10^th Bn KINGS OWN MALTA REGIMENT Working parties at Pink Dump: A and HQ Coys.

25 November 1942: British and US Military Chiefs Meet in Malta

Air Chief Marshal A W Tedder, KCB, two American Generals P W Timberlake and L H Brereton of the US Army Middle East Air Force, and the DMI Middle East Brigadier Airey arrived in Malta today en route for Algiers. Air Officer Commanding Malta, Air Vice-Marshal Park, will be leaving with them early tomorrow morning for a one-day conference.

HMS Utmost

At noon today the Italian Press claimed the destruction of a British submarine. It is believed Utmost was spotted in moonlight while still on the surface by patrolling Italian shipping. Her sinking has been claimed by the Italian torpedo boat Groppo, which located the submarine below the surface early this morning heading towards Malta, and launched depth charges. There were no survivors.

Lieutenant Coombe had only recently taken command of Utmost, which destroyed almost 70000 tons of shipping under its previous Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander R D Cayley, DSO, DSC, RN.

Utmost crew celebrate former success (c) IWM

WAR OFFICE CHECKS STATE OF MALTA RATIONS AFTER STONEAGE CONVOY

From: The War Office To: Commander Malta

Cable firstly daily ration scales civil and military immediately prior arrival Stoneage. Secondly amendments proposed as a result of increased stocks.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 25 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 26 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Mainly fair; showers in the evening.

0625-0700 hrs Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are airborne for protection of an incoming convoy: no enemy aircraft seen.

0700-0815 hrs Six Spitfires 229 Squadron on standing patrol: no sightings.

0800-1650 hrs 22 Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa and other squadrons are airborne to maintain a standing patrol over Malta: no enemy aircraft seen.

1055-1113 hrs Air raid alert for a number of enemy fighters approaching the Island. Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron are scrambled to intercept and see about 15 raiders. One of the Spitfires does not return: F/Lt Burgess is reported missing. Four Spitfires of 229 and 249 Squadrons are also scrambled. Spitfires of 249 Squadron dive from 29000 feet and damage one ME 109. None of the enemy aircraft cross the coast.

1405-1520 hrs Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron carry out a diversionary sweep: they see five Macchi 202 fighters but cannot engage.

1500-1600 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron on standing patrol over the Island. One crash landed with undercarriage trouble: pilot unhurt.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 25 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY The Vice Admiral, Malta, reported that the unloading of the four merchant ships of Stoneage had been completed. MLC 511 carried out exercises with the Army in Comino Channel. Rye swept P 212 in from the sea. Hythe swept Thrasher out: she sailed for Gibraltar and thence for refit in the UK. Manxman sailed for Algiers, for minelaying operations under the orders of the Naval Commander, Expeditionary Force.

Fortress B17E

AIR HQ 17 Spitfires (9 carrying bombs) attacked Gela aerodrome: explosions were seen in dispersal areas and among buildings. Arrivals One Fortress from Heliopolis; fifteen Beaufighters from Gambut; eleven Wellingtons from Shallufa via Gambut. Departures Five Beauforts to ECDU. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire failed to return from operations: pilot missing.

HAL FAR 1035-1140 hrs Eight sorties of Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far for attack on Gela aerodrome – four with bombs and four to act as close escort: one hit recorded.

LUQA Four sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron. 0055-0259 hrs Eight Wellingtons made an attack on Tunis docks. Flares and bombs were dropped and a large fire started which was reported to be burning furiously.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Only five gangs required to work today. The job should be finished by the night shif. The difficulty unloading 100 Octane petrol is slowing up proceedings.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 0800 hrs Working party unloading SS Robin Locksley completed duties. Other convoy duties continue.

1^ST Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY One Sergeant and 27 Other Ranks detailed to brown dump for guard duties.

SS Robin Locksley

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT Bn provided 10 Officers, 232 Other Ranks unloading M/V Robin Locksley. 1600 hrs Unloading completed: 7351 tons unloaded in 127 hours.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged on convoy duties with additional 6 Officers, 250 Other Ranks as Brigade reserve.

10^th Bn KINGS OWN MALTA REGIMENT Working parties at Pink Dump: A and HQ Coys.

26 November 1942: Convoy Supplies Enough For Three Weeks

MALTA STILL UNDER SIEGE

The unloading of last Friday’s convoy MW 12 and distribution of stores to safe keeping was completed today, bringing some relief to the besieged Island of Malta. The first priority was to supply sufficient aviation spirit for aircraft to continue defensive and offensive operations, and that has been achieved.

HMS Clyde

Fuel stocks are now greatly improved compared to the beginning of November when supplies were at a very low ebb. Interim deliveries of aviation fuel by submarines Clyde, Parthian, Traveller and Thrasher from Beirut provided just enough for Malta’s fighters to stay airborne and protect the Allied convoy from the east.

The next urgent requirement for Malta is food. The Island’s siege rations are currently expected to be exhausted by the middle of December. Manxman’s delivery of 300 tons of concentrated foodstuffs helped to relieve a critical situation before the convoy arrived. But even with the safe stockpiling of cargoes from Robin Locksley, Denbighshire, Mormacmoon and Bantam, only a small increase in rations is possible. Further significant supplies will be needed before Malta’s population can be properly fed.

Operation Stoneage has proved that passage to Malta through the Mediterranean is still not without risk. Enemy aircraft managed to launch attacks, one causing serious damage the cruiser Arethusa, with the loss of 159 men. Malta’s air forces are now better placed to keep the Mediterranean open for future convoys. But until safe passage can be secured, Malta remains under siege.

Merchant ship Denbighshire

CARGO SHIP BLAZE

A fire broke out at 1.45 this afternoon on board Denbighshire in Grand Harbour. The blaze is believed to have started when petrol fumes ignited in the empty No 2 Hold. All available ship’s fire-fighting equipment was immediately brought into use, assisted by shore appliances. The fire was brought under control by 4.30 pm but not before it had caused extensive damage.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 26 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 27 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Heavy rain mid-morning, becoming fair.

0655-1515 hrs 12 Spitfires 126 Squadron and 1435 Squadron Luqa patrol the Island protecting shipping in Grand Harbour.

1000-1020 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept approaching unidentified aircraft: plot proves to be friendly.

1125-1205 hrs Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron are scrambled to intercept a reported enemy raid which does not approach Malta.

2310-2320 hrs Air raid alert: aircraft identified as friendly.

0326-0624 hrs One Albacore searches for the crew of a missing Wellington: nothing sighted.

0510 hrs Three Baltimores were despatched to try and locate friendly naval units and to search for the Wellington’s dinghy.

Military casualties Flying Officer Kenneth Cope, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR), 104 Squadron; Flying Officer Royston Giles, RAF VR, 225 Squadron; Pilot Officer William Goulding, RAF VR, 242 Squadron; Sergeant Joseph Watling, RAF VR, 242 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Birkirkara Mary Tonna, age 60.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 26 NOVEMBER 1942

P 45 enters Grand Harbour

ROYAL NAVY P 45 and P 48 sailed, swept out by Speedy.

AIR HQ 0757-1305 hrs Six Beaufighters carried out offensive sweeps in the Gulf of Tripoli: one JU 52 destroyed and a schooner shot up. One Beaufighter was damaged. Night Considerable enemy shipping was again active between Sicily and Tunisia. Two Wellingtons and five Beauforts were out but the weather was very unfavourable and although three torpedoes were dropped no hits were observed. Bad weather prevented operations over Tunisi; Gerbini was targeted instead. A total of 12 Wellingtons attacked Gerbini aerodrome: many hits on the target area causing one fire. Photographs show many craters on the landing area, including one made by a 4000 lb bomb on the edge of the runway.

Arrivals One Hudson from Gibraltar; two Wellingtons from LG 104. Departures One Fortress, six Beaufighters to Algiers; one Wellington to LG 104. Aircraft casualties One Baltimore struck a vehicle on landing: crew uninjured. One Wellington failed to return from operations: crew missing.

LUQA Five sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron covering harbours in Italy and Sicily. 1945-2328 hrs Five Wellingtons 104 Squadron were despatched to attack Gerbini aerodrome. Bombs were dropped and fires started in the north west corner of the aerodrome. All aircraft returned safely. 2110-2230 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron on patrol over Sicily arbited to the south of Catania observing fires on Gerbini aerodrome at 2130 hrs and a large explosion in the centre of the airfield. Accurate heavy Ack Ack was encountered.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Unloading finished by 0800 hrs this morning. 30 men clearing up the ships, which took all day.

Mormacmoon in New York

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 1745 hrs Party employed unloading SS Mormacmoon completed duties. Other convoy duties continue.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Activity at dumps slackening. Foodstuffs being cleared from dump to RASC stores.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged on convoy duties with additional 6 Officers, 250 Other Ranks as Brigade reserve.

10^th Bn KINGS OWN MALTA REGIMENT Working parties at Pink Dump: A and HQ Coys.

24 FORTRESS COMPANY ROYAL ENGINEERS Lt Johnson and 35 Other Ranks proceeded to Qrendi for work on fighter pens.

27 November 1942: Polio Outbreak in Malta

Army medical services have reported an outbreak of poliomyelitis in Malta. The highly infectious virus was diagnosed today in a serviceman in one of the Island’s military hospitals. The diagnosis confirms suspicions of at least two other cases since 15 November, including one on Gozo. Malta has just one iron lung, the apparatus used to assist patients with the severe respiratory difficulties caused by the disease.

Polio has been identified in Malta before but the number of cases has never reached epidemic proportions. However, there are particular concerns with the present outbreak, with the increased risk of spread between civilians crowded into air raid shelters and temporary accommodation.

FORCE K ARRIVES

HMS Cleopatra

Force K steamed into Grand Harbour this afternoon, under the protection of Malta Spitfires. Under Rear Admiral Commanding, Fifteenth Cruiser Squadron – three cruisers Cleopatra, Dido and Euryalus, with Fleet destroyers Jervis, Javelin, Kelvin and Nubian – experienced no air attacks during their passage from Alexandria to Malta. Grand Harbour is now full of ships – a sight the Islanders have not witnessed for many months.

In view of Force K’s safe passage it has been decided to send Motor Torpedo Boats to Malta as soon as the weather allows. They will be moved to Benghazi as soon as possible, to be ready at short notice to make the crossing. In the meantime, two MTBs will remain at Ras el Hillal to act as a striking force against any enemy shipping attempting to reach Tripoli by the Eastern Route.

Motor Torpedo Boats at Manoel (c) IWM A14545

AIR RAIDS DAWN 27 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 28 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Slight showers morning, otherwise fair.

0615-1010 hrs Four Beaufighters 227 Squadron Ta Qali airborne to act as escort to naval units: visibility good – no sightings.

0634-0810 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far continue search for crew of missing Wellington: nothing found.

0750-0905 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on search: nothing sighted.

1030-1150 hrs; 1115-1225 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron, then four Spitfires 185 Squadron are airborne to act as escort for HM ships.

1145-1240 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron on escort patrol, followed by standing patrol over the harbour.

1355-1455 hrs Spitfires 1435 Squadron and 126 Squadron Luqa are airborne with four of 229 Squadron to act as escort to an outgoing naval unit: no enemy aircraft seen.

1355-1500 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron are airborne to act as escort to a minelayer: nothing sighted.

1430 hrs Three cruisers and four destroyers arrive in Grand Harbour as Force K, under the command of Rear Admiral Power. Four Spitfires, ten long-range Spitfires and twenty-five short-range Spitfires provided continuous protection for the convoy for the last 75 miles of its voyage to Malta.

1435-1550 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on standing patrol: no sightings.

1520-1705 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne to act as escort to naval units: no sightings.

1632-1657 hrs Air raid alert for enemy aircraft which approach to within 10 miles north west of Gozo. Four Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled to intercept and patrol between 2500 and 10000 feet: the raiders turn back before reaching Malta.

1652-1657 hrs Air raid alert for several enemy aircraft which approach to within ten miles north east of Gozo.

2051-2012 hrs Air raid alert: aircraft identified as friendly.

Military casualties Flying Officer William Guilfoyle, RAF VR, 93 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 27 NOVEMBER 1942

HMS Upholder

ROYAL NAVY P 37 sailed, swept out by Speedy. Manxman sailed for Alexandria en route to Haifa. HMS Welshman was sailed for Alexandria and Haifa to collect submarine torpedoes which are urgently required.

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Beaufighters from LG 104; one Hudson from Gibraltar; one Wellington from LG 109; one Wellington from LG 224. Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar.

LUQA 14 Officers, 25 Senior NCOs and 134 Other Ranks 227 Squadron arrived for operations. 0600-1700 hrs Five sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron covering harbours of Italy and Sicily. 1916-2358 hrs Six Beauforts 39 Squadron were despatched to lay mines in the approaches to Bizerta harbour: all returned safely. 14 Wellingtons 40 and 104 Squadrons were despatched to attack the docks at Bizerta. Bombs were dropped from 4000-6000 feet and a good-sized fire started in the area of the iron ore wharf. Night One Beaufort found a convoy of three merchant vessels and one destroyer, 37 miles west of Marittimo. A torpedo was aimed at one merchant vessel but a heavy sea mist made it impossible to see the results.

TA QALI 0950-1435 hrs Four Beaufighters 272 Squadron carried out an offensive sweep between Zarzis and Cape Bon: W/Cdr Buchanan destroyed one JU 88 and damaged one ME 110. Visibility good.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Broken Case Store Party completed duties. Other unloading duties continue.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged on convoy duties with additional 6 Officers, 250 Other Ranks as Brigade reserve.

28 November 1942: Breastplate Back On

40mm Bofors anti-aircraft gun and crew Malta 12 May 1942 (IWM)

The special mission by Malta troops to Sousse in French North Africa was reinstated today, as units were ordered to prepare for embarkation. All guards and working parties of 1^st Bn Durham Light Infantry have been on 8 hours’ notice of departure since yesterday and are busy packing the minimum kit allowed for the journey.

The embarkation force will now include one troop of Field Gunners, one of Bofors Gunners, one detachment each of Royal Engineers and Royal Army Service Corps, another of the Royal Army Pay Corps, and Commandos. The mission plans have also been amended to include several transport vehicles. All stores, vehicles and kit bags are to be loaded onto the M/V Melbourne Star by 0300 hrs, leaving only the Army personnel, ammunition and seven days’ rations to be added immediately before departure.

TOP SECRET TELEGRAM

From: Governor (Gen Viscount Gort) To: Secretary of State for the Colonies

1. During the month ended 20^th November there were 59 alerts: 45 by day and 14 by night. 33 bombing raids: 28 by day and 5 by night. 33 people were killed (12 men, 11 women, 10 children). 16 were seriously injured (7 men, 2 women, 7 children). 29 buildings were seriously damaged.

2. The breaking up by the RAF of what threatened to be a serious aerial bombardment in the last 10 days of October, the news from North Africa, and the arrival of a convoy of four ships including two United States vessels and one Netherlands on the last day of the period under review, added buoyancy to an already high morale. The public is proud that Malta is hitting back and bearing a part in the stirring events of this new phase of the war.

3. His Majesty’s Government’s gift of £10,000,000 [to Malta] is widely appreciated and acclaimed.

MALTA SPY HANGED

Carmelo Borg Pisani, convicted of crimes against the Government and sentenced on 19 November, was hanged early this morning at Corradino Civil Prison. He had appealed unsuccessfully for clemency.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 28 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 29 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Slight showers morning, becoming fair to cloudy.

0730-0820 hrs Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are airborne to fly south of Comiso, searching for signs of the Spitfire of F/Lt Burgess, missing since 25 November: no wreckage is seen.

1305 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are airborne to cover the return of 185 Squadron from attacking Gela aerodrome.

1415-1500 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron search for a missing Spitfire: nothing seen.

1430 hrs An anti-personnel mine explodes near Dock 3 badly injuring a Maltese civilian, whose leg is blown off.

Night One Beaufighter 89 Squadron is airborne on intercept patrol over the Island: no enemy aircraft seen.

Military casualties Warrant Officer Class II George Edwards, Royal Canadian Air Force, 249 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 28 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY HMS Thunderbolt arrived at Malta to join the Tenth Submarine Flotilla for Special Operations. She had sailed from the United Kingdom direct to Malta, making the passage in eighteen days. Thunderbolt was swept in by Rye, who subsequently swept P 43 and Traveller to sea.

Axis aircraft on Gela aerodrome

AIR HQ A total of 22 Spitfires including eight carrying bombs attacked Gela and Comiso aerodromes: bombs were dropped on the dispersal areas. The escorting fighters damaged two JU 52s. Two Beaufighters on a sweep along the Tunisian coast from Sousse to Zuara destroyed one CR 42. Other Beaufighters on various patrols destroyed two SM 79s. One JU 52 was destroyed on the ground and various targets shot up. Two Wellingtons bombed the docks at Tunis as a diversion during a mining operation carried out by Beauforts.

Arrivals Two DC 3 from El Adem; one Liberator from LG 224. Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar; two Wellingtons to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed in the sea: pilot missing. One Beaufighter failed to return from operations: crew missing.

HAL FAR 1105-1230 hrs 12 Spitfires 185 Squadron, four carrying bombs, attacked Gela aerodrome. Explosions were seen in the south eastern dispersal area. Sgt Houlton sighted a formation of nine JU 52s just off the coast of Sicily and damaged two of them. 1800-2235 hrs One Swordfish and three Albacores RNAS searched for shipping in the Straits of Messina: mission abortive.

LUQA 0630-1640 hrs Five sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron covering harbours and aerodromes in Sicily and Italy. Three Baltimores 69 Squadron carried out weather reconnaissance. 2145 hrs Eight Beauforts 39 Squadron were despatched to lay mines in the entrance of Tunis harbour: all aircraft returned safely. Eleven Wellingtons 104 and 40 Squadrons were despatched to attack Bizerta docks in two waves: bombs were seen to burst well within the target area.

Baltimore serviced at Luqa (c) IWM GM1027

Night A photo-reconnaissance Spitfire having sighted a convoy consisting of one 4-5000 ton tanker and one 4-5000 ton merchant vessel rounding Cape Spartivento westwards, two torpedo-carrying Wellingtons were despatched to attack. One Wellington found and attacked the convoy five miles north of Capo Orlando, in a heavy rainstorm, but the torpedo appeared to run astern of the target.

TA QALI 0635-1050 hrs Two Beaufighters 227 Squadron despatched on operation to bomb shipping in the Sicilian channel: F/Lt Schmidt destroyed one CR 42. 1005-1415 hrs; 1400-1630 hrs Two Beaufighters 227 Squadron at a time on offensive sweep: nothing sighted. 1300-1650 hrs Two Beaufighters 272 Squadron on bombing mission and offensive sweep: F/Lt Rankin damages one SM 79.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Working party 1 Officer, 25 Other Ranks C Coy and 25 A Coy required to clear part of Floriana Parade Ground to make a dump for goods from the convoy. Task will last about 5 days.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Convoy duties continue. 1 NCO, 4 men with mobile Breda gun attached to 1^st Bn Durham Light Infantry.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Breda gun and crew from GP6 report to 1^st Bn Durham Light Infantry at Cammerata Barracks. Dumps given order to close down as soon as clear of all goods (completed 1715 hrs): personnel return to Coy lines. Motor-transport sub-depot Gzira party remain in position. Guard remaining on Brown Dump (petrol).

4^th Bn THE BUFFS 77 motor transport drivers, six 15 cwt and one 3 ton truck engaged at sub-depot.

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Posted by maltagc70 on November 28, 2022 in 1942, November 1942

Tags: 1435 Squadron, 185 Squadron, 227 Squadron, 229 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 272 Squadron, 39 Squadron, 69 Squadron, Bice, Denbighshire, Durham Light Infantry, Force K, Malta, Operation Breastplate, P 211, P 247, polio, Porpoise, Royal Engineers, Utmost, war diary, World War 2

8-14 November 1942: Fortress Malta Underpins North African Invasion

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8 November 1942: Malta Aircraft & Submarines Join Operation Torch

Operation Torch troops hit beaches near Algiers

Under cover of darkness early this morning scores of thousands of American troops were landed on the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts of French North Africa. The objective is to forestall an Axis invasion, remove the threat of an attack on America from the West African coast, and establish an effective second front to assist Russia. British divisions will follow the Americans.

Marshal Petain has ordered the French African Army to resist, and Vichy Radio reports fighting east and west of Algiers. It is reported from Allied Headquarters that initial objectives have been achieved in landings on two important beaches, and that US airborne troops were first landed to seize aerodromes and vital channels of communication.(1)

Malta’s task is now to hinder the enemy’s attempts to rush men and materials into the north east corner of Tunisia by sea and air. Twenty submarines of the 1st, 8th, and 10th Flotillas are operating from the Island as part of Operation Torch and other Malta-based vessels will come under operational control of Captain (S), 10th Submarine Flotilla, when east of longitude 8 degrees east.

Wellington bombers are to make sorties against targets in Tunisia, Sardinia and Sicily. They opened their offensive last night with an attack on Cagliari (Elmas) aerodrome to cover the arrival of the Allied landing force in Algeria.

With the opening of the new campaign in North Africa, the role of Malta’s photo-reconnaissance pilots has also been changed, from covering Libyan convoys to monitoring the Italian battle fleet. They will now be covering Taranto, Messina, Navarino and Naples two or three times a day.

BRITISH BOMBERS USING DELAYED ACTION FUZES

Three special Wellingtons despatched on shipping searches sighted one merchant vessel with escort. Seven Wellingtons were despatched to attack Elmas and Decimomannu aerodromes: the results were difficult to asses as many of the bombs had long delayed action fuzes.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 8 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 9 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fine/fair.

No air raids.

0925-1015 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1720-1745 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on dusk patrol: no sightings.

2045-2240 hrs; 0320-0455 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron at a time patrol over the Island and surroundings: no enemy aircraft seen close to Malta.

Military casualties Flying Officer John Greig, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Flying Officer Peter Mould, RAF VR; Flight Sergeant Walter Owen, RAF VR; Flying Officer Roy Quarendon, RAF VR; Flight Sergeant Hilgrove Teale, RAF VR; Pilot Officer Frank Snelling, RAF VR; Pilot Officer Edward Robbins, RAF VR; Flight Sergeant Thomas Parker, RAF VR; Sergeant Ernest Stott, RAF VR; all 233 Squadron. Flying Officer Harry Lethbridge, Royal Australian Air Force.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 8 NOVEMBER 1942

Cape San Vito

ROYAL NAVY 1125 hrs Submarine HMS P 44 witnessed an attack on a Regolo class cruiser by HMS P 46, 16 miles northwest of Cape San Vito, which blew a considerable portion of the cruiser’s bow away. P 44 attempted to finish her off but missed, though an escorting destroyer may have been hit.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Beauforts from Mariut; three Spitfires from Gibraltar. Departures One Liberator, two LG 224s to DC 3. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed: pilot seriously injured.

HAL FAR One Spitfire on a practice flight crash-lands: pilot unhurt.

LUQA Nine sorties were flown by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires covering aerodromes and harbours of Sicily, Pantelleria and southern Sardinia. Seven Wellingtons (four 104 Squadron, three 40 Squadron) were despatched to bomb Elmas and Decimomannu aerodromes. Five aircraft dropped bombs on Elmas aerodrome, scoring hits on the runways and doing considerable damage.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS All duties at Luqa aerodrome taken over by 2^nd Bn Royal Irish Fusiliers.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT During the past 24 hours has found working parties at Hal Far as for Nov 7^th.

2^nd Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT 9 trucks, 1 motor-cycle, 1 Officer and 20 Other Ranks reported for fatigue duties on Ta Qali.

9 November 1942: Axis Fighters Move From Sicily to Tunisia

Over 80 enemy fighters are reported to have left Sicily since Wednesday. It is believed that many of them are heading for Tunisia, as part of the effort to hold that territory in the face of the recent invasion.

FLEET AIR ARM ATTACK CONVOY

Fairey ‘Swordfish’ with torpedo

At midnight two torpedo-carrying Albacores and one torpedo-carrying Swordfish co-operated with a special Swordfish in an attack on three enemy cruisers and several destroyers en route from Navarino to Messina in position 144 degrees Spartivento 75 miles. Three torpedoes were aimed at the cruisers but an effective smoke screen was put up. Two explosions were observed, but all three cruisers were subsequently located at Augusta.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 9 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 10 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fair to cloudy; clearing later.

No air raids.

1320-1425 hrs Five Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on practice flying and intercept patrol: no sightings.

1400-1440 hrs; 1525-1625 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne at a time on intercept patrol: no sightings.

Night One Beaufighter 89 Squadron Luqa is airborne for a raid which does not materialise. It patrols north of Malta at 12000 feet but sees no enemy aircraft.

Military casualties Flight Lieutenant Charles Brennan, Royal Canadian Air Force, 544 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 9 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Clyde sailed being swept out by Hebe.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Wellington from Gianaclis. Departures One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance to Kilo 8. Aircraft casualties One Wellington failed to return from operations: crew missing.

LUQA Seven sorties were flown by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires which covered the aerodromes of southern Sardinia and harbours of Sicily, Tunis and Bizerta. Three special Wellingtons 69 Squadron carried out shipping searches of Taranto, Messina and Sardinia areas. One cruiser and three destroyers were sighted. One aircraft failed to return: P/O Matthews, P/O Moffat, P/O James, P/O Reay, P/O Burgess, Sgt Watt missing.

Decimomannu aerodrome aerial view

1913-0330 hrs Seven Wellingtons (three 40 Squadron, four 104 Squadron) were despatched to attack Elmas and Decimomannu aerodromes. Bombs were dropped on the aerodromes and on buildings to the south. Some Heavy Ack Ack was encountered. All aircraft returned. 2020-2125 hrs Three torpedo-carrying Wellingtons of 69 Squadron were despatched to attack shipping in the Navarino area: no enemy aircraft seen.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 0900 hrs Convoy duties: 3 NCOs and 15 Other Ranks reported to Camerata Barracks for duties as tally clerks. 1 Officer, 5 NCOs and 16 Other Ranks reported to Mifsud’s Verandah for duties at Broken Case Store. 1200 hrs 1 Officer, 1 Warrant Officer and 12 Other Ranks reported for duty at Zabbar motor transport sub-depot.

1500 hrs Transport and 26 drivers reported to sub-depot for duty. Unit transport involved eight 15 cwt trucks, two 30 cwt trucks and three impressed vehicles. 1700 hrs Green Dump established at San Gregoriu Church: 3 Officers, 11 NCOs and 50 Other Ranks reported for duty. 1 Officer 3 Other Ranks reported for duty with Docks Unit. 3 NCOs 18 Other Ranks reported Porte des Bombes for fire fighting duties at Docks.

1^st Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT 1730 hrs 18 Officers 361 Other Ranks in position at five convoy dumps and one motor transport sub-depot, locations Pawla, Attard, Tal Balal, L’Imsierah, Hamrun and Gzira.

2^nd Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT 3 x 1 ton lorries and six Other Ranks reported for transport duties on Luqa. 3 trucks and 6 drivers reported for Brigade special duties at Naxxar.

10 November 1942: Enemy Transport Aircraft Arrive in Med

Axis command has introduced large numbers of transport aircraft into the Central Mediterranean area. The planes were reported by pilots returning from reconnaissance missions over Trapani and Tunis, where no fewer than 40 of the aircraft have arrived since yesterday.

ME 323 Transport Aircraft

The majority of the new aircraft are JU 52s but a few larger models have also been seen, including JU 90s, FW 200s and ME 323s. The latter is a six-engined plane with a 180 foot wingspan and is believed capable of carrying 40-50 fully equipped troops. The transport aircraft have been observed flying in convoys of 25-30 planes each.

The transport fleet is understood to be part of the renewed efforts North African campaign by Axis forces. Intelligence reports indicate that the enemy intend to occupy and defend as much as possible of Tunisia. In response, Malta Air Command have been instructed to transfer the main weight of their bomber effort to the aerodrome of El Aouina at Tunis, where many of the Axis transports and some large gliders are concentrated.

MALTA AIR CREW CAPTURED

Junkers JU 90

One of nine Beaufighters of 272 Squadron despatched to attack German aircraft on El Aouina aerodrome in Tunis last night has been reported missing. Visibility was good, with only a slight ground haze when the Beaufighters attacked in waves of four, strafing aircraft on the ground. They reported destroying five JU 52s, two JU 90s and one JU 87, one large glider and a twin-engined aircraft. They also damaged three JU 87s, two ME 109s, two JU 52s, one large glider, three twin-engined aircraft and five more unidentified aircraft.

The aerodrome’s defences opened up with small gun fire: one Beaufighter appears to have been hit: it was seen by crews of the other aircraft making a successful emergency landing near the airfield. As the area is French territory the crew are likely to be interned if captured.

A Wellington bomber is also missing after an attack on Elmas aerodrome. The bomber was one of seven Wellingtons sent to attack the airfield. Bombs are reported to have fallen all over the aerodrome and runway, causing 17 small fires – believed to be aircraft. Many hits were scored on an ammunition dump which exploded.

One torpedo-carrying and one bomb-carrying Wellington returned safely after attacking Axis shipping. The two Wellingtons were on shipping reconnaissance west of Benghazi when they found a westbound merchant ship with a single escort vessel 80 miles east of Misurata. One of the Wellingtons dropped flares, while the other attacked the merchantman with three 500 lb bombs, scoring near-misses.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 10 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 11 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fair to fine.

No air raids.

0650-0800 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

0740-0840 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne to act as escort to friendly shipping.

0830-0945 hrs; 0945-1035 hrs Three and then four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1018-1118 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far patrol over the Island at 12-15000 feet.

1100-1230 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

0320-0338 hrs One air raid alert for a single aircraft which proves to be friendly.

Military casualties Warrant Officer II Byard Fisher, Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF); Flying Officer Francis James, RCAF; Flying Officer Allison Burgess, RCAF; Sergeant Ralph Bland, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Flight Sergeant Hugh Locke, RCAF; Flying Officer William Mathews, RCAF; Flying Officer Verdun Ray, RCAF; Flight Sergeant Frank Lewsley, RAF VR; Flying Officer Bernard Moffatt, RCAF; Warrant Officer II Burchester McNall, RCAF; Warrant Officer II Frank Olsen, RCAF; all 69 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 10 NOVEMBER 1942

HMS Porpoise

ROYAL NAVY HMS Porpoise was retained at Malta for a possible landing of military personnel in the Sousse area to captain certain coast defence guns. 0710 hrs During patrol for Operation Torch HMS Una sighted an enemy force of three 6 inch cruisers, escorted by six destroyers in position 37-11N, 15-30E. Una attacked but missed the cruisers, but a fleet destroyer on the far side of the screen was hit and sunk.

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Hudsons from Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Beaufighter landed in French territory: crew believed to have been interned.

LUQA Seven sorties were flown by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires covering aerodromes and harbours in Sicily, northern Sardinia, Tunis and Bizerta. 1645-0450 hrs Three torpedo-carrying Wellingtons and one special Wellington 69 Squadron were despatched to locate and attack enemy snipping in the Navarino area. The special Wellington sighted three cruisers and two destroyers. 1730-0535 hrs Four special Wellingtons 69 Squadron were airborne to search for enemy shipping in the Straits of Messina: no important sightings made.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 1300 hrs 1 Officer, 7 NCOs and 16 Other Ranks reported at Docks for fire fighting duties on ships. 10 NCOs and 40 Other Ranks standing by as General Duty reserve. Other convoy duties as yesterday. 5 Other Ranks reported as reserve drivers to sub-depot.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT During the past 48 hours has found working parties at Hal Far: 4 x 15 cwt trucks for food delivery, servicing aircraft and for mobile vehicle repairs; 2 impressed lorries for crater-filling; 2 motor-cycles for motor control work; 16 Other Ranks working above trucks. At Zabbar sub-depot: 4 x 15 cwt trucks.

1^st Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Dumps and sub-depot on four hours readiness.

11 November 1942: Qrendi Air Strip Opens

Qrendi air strip (NWMA Malta)

Qrendi air strip officially opened yesterday afternoon. His Excellency the Governor and Commander in Chief Viscount Gort performed the opening ceremony which was attended by commanders of all Services. The Air Officer Commanding was given the honour of being the first pilot to use the new airfield, taking off in a fighter immediately after the formal proceedings. The air strip is now expected to be fully operational.

MERCHANT SHIP GROUNDED EN ROUTE FOR MALTA

HMS Manxman grounded early this morning as she was embarking to bring supplies to Malta. Manxman sailed from Alexandria at 0500 hours escorted by destroyers Dulverton, Beaufort, Aldenham, Hurworth and Belvoir.

On passing through the boom, the merchant vessel grounded outside the quarantine breakwater of Alexandria Harbour. She was refloated an hour later with the help of a tug. An inspection of the hull reported no apparent damage and she was declared safe to proceed. After dark, the destroyers turned back for Alexandria and Manxman is reported continuing towards Malta at high speed.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 11 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 12 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fair to cloudy.

No air raids.

1230-1340 hrs; 1345-1430 hrs Four and then five Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali search for a submarine: no sightings.

1425-1535 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far search for the submarine but find nothing.

1450-1525 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1505-1810 hrs Six Beaufighters were despatched to patrol the area between Cape Bon and Trapani. One HE 115 was destroyed and one schooner shot up.

1620-1655 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

2020-2125 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron patrols over the Island: no enemy aircraft sighted.

Military casualties Flying Officer Charles Hall, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Flight Sergeant Basil Conway, RAF; Sergeant Claude Hotchkiss; Sergeant Kenneth Keston, RAF VR; Sergeant George Love, RAF VR; Flight Lieutenant Geoffrey Maxton, RAF; Sergeant Eric Mudd, RAF VR; Sergeant William Parsons, RAF; Sergeant Harold Watson, RAF VR; all 210 Squadron. Lieutenant Gordan Brodziak, South African Air Force; Flight Sergeant Malcolm Humphrey, RAF; Sergeant William Lip-Guey, Royal New Zealand Air Force; Sergeant Wallace Moss, RAF VR; all 608 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Zejtun Joseph Busuttil, age 58.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 11 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P 46 was swept in by Hebe, returning from patrol off Cape San Vito for Operation Torch. At 1123 on 8th November in position 38-14N, 12-43E she torpedoed and hit a Regolo class cruiser heavily escorted by destroyers. This hit was confirmed by a subsequent reconnaissance of Palermo.

Liberator Lands in Malta

AIR HQ Arrivals One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance from Gibraltar; one Liberator, one DC 3, one Wellington from LG 224. Departures Three Hudsons to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One photo-reconnaissance Spitfire failed to return: pilot missing. One Wellington failed to return from operations: crew missing. One Wellington shot down in the sea: crew picked up uninjured.

LUQA 0800 hrs One 5-6000 ton motor vessel is seen 10 miles south of Naples. Night sorties by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires 69 Squadron cover aerodromes in Italy, Sicily and southern Sardinia. 2010-0125 hrs Two Wellingtons 40 Squadron and three 104 Squadron were despatched to attack Tunis aerodrome. Bombs were dropped on the target, causing considerable damage. Night Four Wellingtons were airborne on reconnaissance and patrol, covering the Straits of Messina area: no important sightings made and all aircraft returned safely.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Ships’ fire fighting party stands down. Other convoy duties as for yesterday.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT 4 Other Ranks temporarily attached to 1^st Bn Cheshire Regt as tally clerks on docks. 1 Other Rank temporarily attached to Docks Unit as batman.

12 November 1942: Manxman Arrives With Supplies and Men

HMS Manxman

HMS Manxman entered Grand Harbour at 5 o’clock this afternoon after a successful 1000 mile passage through the eastern Mediterranean from Alexandria. Manxman was carrying 350 tons of varied foodstuffs including much needed supplies of powdered milk, dried cereals, and preserved meat. There were also 200 passengers, including RAF and Army personnel, for Malta. The food was loaded into heavy sacks which slowed the unloading process. Despite this 1^st Bn Cheshire Regiment managed to complete the task by 0230 hours. The cargo was immediately dispersed to safe keeping in the Island’s storage facilities.

A second supply run by HMS Welshman from the east has been delayed. The ship set out from the UK on 1^st November but has been delayed by bad weather in the eastern Meditteranean.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 12 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 13 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Rain early becoming fair.

No air raids.

0835 hrs Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled: raid does not materialise.

0855-1010 hrs Twelve Spitfire sorties by 126 Squadron Luqa and twelve by 1435 Squadron: no enemy aircraft seen.

1345-1450 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to act as escort to approaching ship: no enemy aircraft sighted.

1415-1540 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron patrol over the ship 20 miles off Kalafrana.

1435-1520 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far on intercept patrol: nothing sighted.

1500 hrs B Company 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report a circular object with red painted horns floating in the sea 100 yards offshore.

1536-1845 hrs Seven Beaufighters were despatched to patrol over the Tunis-Sicilian channel. Five Savoia Marchetti 82s with German markings were sighted 40 miles south east of Pantelleria on a northerly course. A further SM 82 with Italian markings was following behind. The Beaufighters attacked and destroyed them all. Several khaki-clad figures were seen struggling in the water.

1735 hrs C Coy 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report flashes on the horizon due east of Della Grazia, identified as possible gun fire.

1825 hrs Air raid alert sounds for approaching aircraft which turn out to be friendly.

0405 hrs C Company 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report a red glare on the horizon off Della Grazia.

Military casualties Sergeant Bruce Norman, Royal New Zealand Air Force, 154 Squadron, RAF.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 12 NOVEMBER 1942

HMS Utmost

ROYAL NAVY Hythe swept Utmost in from patrol, and then went out again to sweep Manxman into Grand Harbour.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Wellington from LG 224. Departures One DC3, one Liberator to LG 224. Aircraft casualties Two Beaufighters overshot runway on landing: crew uninjured. One Beaufort crashed on landing: crew uninjured. One Spitfire belly-landed at Luqa: pilot uninjured.

LUQA The Air Officer Commanding has sent personal congratulations to ground staff for achieving a record high level of serviceability, including 100% Spitfire serviceability, demonstrating excellent teamwork on the part of all concerned. Seven sorties were flown by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires covering aerodromes and harbours in Sicily, Sardinia and Tunis.

1805-0505 hrs Six Wellingtons attacked El Aouina aerodrome, starting many fires and causing a large explosion – believed to be a fuel dump. The Wellingtons made a second sortie against the target and caused more fires. Bombs were seen to explode near hangars and a gun position was silenced. All aircraft returned safely. 2015 hrs Six Wellingtons (two of 40 Squadron, four of 104 Squadron) were despatched to attack Tunis. All bombing was confined to the aerodromes: fires and large explosions seen. 0120-0540 hrs Five Beauforts 39 Squadron were despatched to lay mines in the approachs to Tunis harbour.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Bn ‘stood by’ to unload HMS Manxman.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 1630 hrs General Duty reserve reported to No 5 Dock and were employed in unloading HMS Manxman. Other convoy duties as for yesterday.

4^th HEAVY ACK ACK REGIMENT PM Orders given to preset ammunition for ship barrage for HMS Manxman. Dockyard barrages now have priority.

1^st Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Red, Brown and Blue [Supply] Dumps remain in position. White and Pink Dumps stand down except for skeleton guard. Sub-depot continues operating.

1^st Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT E Company apprehended 6 civilians smuggling eggs and cheese from Gozo: they were handed over to the civil police.

13 November 1942: Malta Fighters Disable 13 Axis Transport Planes

Focke-Wulf FW 200

Seven Beaufighters patrolling the Tunisian-Sicilian channel at 5000 feet today sighted large formations of enemy transport planes flying at 100 feet. The Beaufighters attacked, destroying six enemy aircraft and probably destroying seven. One Beaufighter is missing and six were slightly damaged in the attack.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 13 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 14 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Cloudy.

No air raids.

0845-0920 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far patrol north of the Island: nothing sighted.

1100-1315 hrs Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are airborne and patrol as far as Mandia but see no aircraft or shipping.

1535-1700 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron on patrol see a Spitfire crash into the sea and cover the pilot in his dinghy until he is picked up by the High Speed Launch.

1535-1845 hrs Seven Beaufighters 272 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol sight and attack six Savoia Marchetti 82s, shooting all six down into the sea. Two Beaufighters are damaged in combat: one crash-lands at base and is written off.

1612-1707 hrs One Swordfish RNAS Hal Far is despatched on Air Sea Rescue and drops a dinghy to a pilot in the sea 16 miles west of Dingli. He is later picked up by the High Speed Launch.

Military casualties Warrant Officer II John Stephen, Royal Canadian Air Force; Sergeant Samuel Whear, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve; both 227 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 13 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Una and P 44 were swept in by Rye after missions for Operation Torch. HMS P 44 was returning to Malta from patrol off the northwest of Sicily. HMS Una was back from patrol off the southern approaches of Messina and Port Augusta. Speedy, Hythe and Hebe carried out searching sweep of QBB 298 and swept six mines.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Spitfires from Gibraltar. Departures One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance to LG 224. Aircraft casualties Four Beaufighters damaged by enemy action: crews uninjured. Two Beaufighters crash-landed at Luqa: crews uninjured. One Beaufighter shot down in the sea: crew missing. One Spitfire missing in transit from Gibraltar to Malta.

LUQA Six sorties were flown by photo-reconnaissance Spitfires covering the harbours of Naples, Taranto and Messina. Two Baltimores 89 Squadron searched for shipping in the Marittimo area. Night One special Wellington 69 Squadron was sent on a shipping search in the area Cavoli-Marittimo: a number of sightings.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 0315 hrs General Duty reserve completed unloading duties. Personnel employed at Green Dump reduced to 3 NCOs and 12 men on guard duties.

14 November 1942: El Aouina Under Fire

Axis aircraft destroyed at El Aouina

At 1525 hours this afternoon seven Beaufighters of 272 Squadron based at Ta Qali were sent to attack El Aouina aerodrome in Tunis. Despite intense flak over the target, they strafed the airfield, destroying three JU 52s and three JU 88s, and damaging one JU 87 and one single-engined aircraft on the ground.

Two Beaufighters have been reported missing following the raid. One was seen making an emergency landing on the beach at Tunis: the crew S/Ldr A Watson and P/O C F Cutting are believed taken prisoners of war. The whereabouts of the other crew, F/Lt Bale and Sgt Soutter, are unknown. The remaining Beaufighters landed safely at 1850 hours this evening.

Tonight seven Wellingtons were despatched to attack El Aouina. Bombs explode on the landing ground and in dispersal areas, starting several fires. The Wellingtons made a second sortie and bombs were seen exploding among the buildings, starting two large fires. All aircraft returned safely.

SITUATION REPORT WEEK ENDING 14 NOVEMBER 1942

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: C in C Middle East Rpt: The War Office

1. No enemy air activity.

2. Much offensive and reconnaissance air activity in support of Operation Torch. Beaufighters on daylight shoot-ups El Aouina, destroyed ten transport planes, one large glider, five other planes. Damaged two transports, one glider and five other planes on the ground. Beaufighters and Spitfires on patrol Tunisian Sicilian channel intercepted and destroyed 20 transport planes and three other planes; probably destroyed seven transport planes.

By night Wellingtons and Fleet Air Arm aircraft scored torpedo hits: one, possibly two, cruisers near misses with bombs on one merchant vessel. Wellingtons bombed Elmas and El Aouina where much damaged caused. Also Cagliari and Decimomannnu. Beauforts laid mines on approaches to Tunis.

3. HMS Manxman arrived with approximately 350 tons foodstuffs unloaded by army personnel. Large working parties on aerodromes continue.

4. Qrendi landing strip opened.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 14 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 15 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fair.

No air raids.

0645-0810 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

0900-1015 hrs Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa patrol 30 miles north east of Malta in response to a report of a possible air raid: enemy aircraft do not approach the Island.

Messerschmitt Bf 110

1000-1255 hrs Eight long-range Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa carry out a reconnaissance patrol over the Tunisian-Sicilian channel. They sight one BR 20 with escorting fighters and attack: P/O Piggot destroys one BR 20; P/O Hibbert destroys one ME 110. Sgt Hendry damages one JU 90 and Sgt Mortimer damages one ME 110.

1400-1630 hrs Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron and four 126 Squadron carry out reconnaissance in the Cape Bon area. P/O Kirkman or Sgt Kebble destroy one BR 20; F/Lt McLennan destroys one SM 82 [later identified as S 75].

1155-1325 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far patrol north of Gozo: nothing sighted.

1215-1555 hrs Eight Beaufighters on patrol destroy one JU 88, one SM 85 and one ME 109. Two Beaufighters are reported missing.

1400-1630 hrs Eight Spitfires on reconnaissance patrol sight a BR 20 and a SM 82 and attack, destroying them both. Four Spitfires 185 Squadron patrol as far as Lampedusa and Linosa: no enemy aircraft sighted.

1505-1650 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1605-1735 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne on intercept patrol: they chase one enemy aircraft but do not engage.

1645 hrs Seven Beaufighters patrolling the Sicilian channel destroy one HE 114.

Military casualties Sergeant Cecil Candler, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Sergeant John Hughes, RAF; Flying Officer Robert Pearson, RAF; Flying Officer David Witherspoon, Royal Canadian Air Force; all 227 Squadron. Flight Lieutenant Leslie Bale, RAF VR; Flight Sergeant Robert Soutter, RAF VR; both 272 Squadron. Flight Lieutenant Francis Bassett, RAF, 152 Squadron; Flight Lieutenant George Davidson, Royal Canadian Air Force, 126 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 14 NOVEMBER 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals One Spitfire, six Hudsons from Gibraltar; two Beaufighters from ECDU; two Baltimores from LG 227; two Liberators from LG 224; four Wellingtons from Gianaclis. Aircraft casualties Four Beaufighters shot down by enemy aircraft: crews missing. One Beaufighter force-landed in French territory: crew saved.

3^rd Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT 200 men began pen-building at Qrendi aerodrome. 1600 from various units are distributed on the other aerodromes, assisting with maintenance and servicing.

(1) Adapted from Sydney Morning Herald 9 November 1942

All written content © maltagc70 unless otherwise attributed. For conditions of use contact bdmalta@btinternet.com

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Posted by maltagc70 on November 14, 2022 in 1942, November 1942

Tags: 104 Squadron, 1435 Squadron, 185 Squadron, 227 Squadron, 229 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 272 Squadron, 544 Squadron, 69 Squadron, Cheshire Regiment, Kings Own Malta Regiment, Malta, Manxman, Operation Torch, Qrendi, Royal Canadian Air Force, war diary, World War Two

1-7 November 1942: Fuel Shortages Threaten Malta’s Role in War

07 Nov

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1 November 1942: ‘Spy Ship’ to Relieve Malta Fuel Shortage

Desperate shortages of aviation fuel in Malta have forced Allied naval commanders to come up with an innovative solution. Intensive enemy air and sea activity makes it impossible to run a convoy through the eastern Mediterranean. Instead, they have decided to send a captured former Italian ship disguised as an Axis supply vessel to carry supplies to the Island.

Former MS Rodi now Empire Patrol

The former Italian ship MS Rodi was seized by British Contraband Control at Malta on 10 June 1940, the eve of Italy’s declaration of war. Renamed Empire Patrol she has since been in use by the Ministry of War Transport.

The plan is to disguise the ship under Turkish colours and send her unescorted through Turkish waters east of Cyprus. She will then change to Italian colours and turn westwards, taking a standard route of Italian freighters bound from the Dardanelles to Southern Italy.

The Empire Patrol was loaded with 1200 tons of aviation fuel and 3000 tons of benzene, all carried in cans. She left Alexandria this afternoon, steaming northwards at 15 knots.

E BOATS IN MALTA WATERS

Enemy E boats were spotted tonight off the coast by observers of 1^st Battalion Dorsetshire Regiment. Reports described a flashing light out to sea off Delimara. The searchlights at Fort Delimara were illuminated and gun batteries opened fire on the E boats: no claims are reported. It is believed that the enemy vessels were engaged in minelaying.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 1 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 2 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Cloudy to fair; slight shower early.

No air raids.

1205-1240 hrs Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled for a raid that does not materialise. One Spitfire crashes, killing Pilot Officer Wright. C Company 1^st Bn Royal West Kent Regiment mount a guard on the crashed Spitfire at Tal Hlas Church, Zebbug.

2245 hrs C Company 1st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report a light flashing out to sea.

0200 hrs D and B Companies 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report lights exposed and two rounds fired by Fort Delimara.

Military casualties Flight Lieutenant Patrick Attenborough, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (VR); Pilot Officer Austin Bettridge, Royal Air Force; Sergeant Douglas Jenkins, Royal Air Force VR; Flight Sergeant Arthur Smith, Royal Air Force; Wing Commander Hubert Styles, Royal Air Force, all 233 Squadron; Pilot Officer Russell Wright, Royal Air Force VR; Warrant Officer II Albert Powles, Royal Canadian Air Force; Private Thomas Seville, 1st Battalion, Dorsetshire Regiment.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 1 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P 43 and P 37 were swept out by Hebe and Rorqual by Rye.

AIR HQ Departures One Beaufighter, one DC 3 to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crash-landed: pilot killed.

HAL FAR 185 Squadron released.

LUQA One Spitfire was sent on reconnaissance of Patras and a shipping search of Cape Katakola. The 5-6000 ton tanker seen off Cape Maria di Leuca on 29 October was lying in the roads off Patras Harbour with a destroyer. One Baltimore 69 Squadron sent on shipping search of Sapienza south of Cape Matapan area sighted nothing.

TA QALI No operations.

2 November 1942: Operation Supercharge

‘Operation Supercharge’ tanks in W desert (c) IWM E18972

Overnight, Allied forces began an attack westward in the northern sector of the North African campaign under ‘Operation Supercharge’. By dawn today they had reached their final objectives. Meanwhile diversionary attacks were made in the central and southern sectors with some success.

RNAS ATTACK AXIS MERCHANT SHIP

Late this afternoon a Spitfire of Malta’s photo-reconnaissance unit spotted a convoy of one 5000 ton merchant vessel, one destroyer and one flak ship 15 miles east of Tripoli and heading eastwards. At 2300 hours one special Swordfish and two Albacores were despatched to attack. At 0151 hours they found the convoy 45 miles east of Homs. The Albacores dropped two torpedoes which were seen to run well but the results could not be observed.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 2 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 3 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fine.

1340-1409 hrs Air raid alert for 24 enemy fighters including fighter bombers approaching the Island at a great height. Eight Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are airborne on a practice flight when they are diverted to intercept the approaching formation but they see no hostile aircraft. Spitfires of 126 Squadron Luqa, plus seven Spitfires 229 Squadron and four 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept reported enemy raiders: no sightings.

Raiders head for Luqa airfield and attack. RAF Regiment ground defences open up with machine gunfire and destroy one ME 109 which blows up in the air and crashes near Kirkop. Bombs are dropped on Luqa, Kirkop and Misrah Blandun. Ack Ack guns also fire: no claims.

1617-1638 hrs Air raid alert for 30 enemy fighters approaching the Island at high altitude. Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept and are jumped by ME 109s. Sgt Weir is injured in the thigh and crash-lands back at base. Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are also scrambled but sight no raiders. Six ME 109s cross the coast. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

Enemy aircraft are reported as having a painted white band around the fuselage aft of the cockpit.

0436-0515 hrs Air raid alert for four enemy bombers which drop bombs on Imtarfa, Rabat, Luqa, Zebbug and Birkirkara, damaging property, killing seven civilians and injuring 15. Two nursing sisters are injured at Imtarfa. Heavy Ack Ack fire. Malta fighters are airborne: no interceptions.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties (See 3 November).

Enemy casualties Oberfeldwebel Heinrich Slany, pilot of Messerschmitt Bf 109.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 2 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P 35, P 44 and P 46 to sea for patrol swept out by Speedy and Parthian swept in by Hebe.

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Beauforts from Gibraltar; one Liberator from LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crash-landed due to enemy action: pilot injured.

LUQA One Spitfire 69 Squadron made photo-reconnaissance of Porto Empedocle. 27 Spitfire sorties were made against 54 plus enemy sorties. 10 Spitfire sorties were made in reconnaissance patrols north of Malta: no enemy aircraft or shipping sighted.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Working party 1 Officer 30 Other Ranks found by A Company to work for Royal Engineers in Floriana.

1^st Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT C Company 1 Officer 50 Other Ranks on Luqa. 1 NCO 18 men assisting 173 Tunnelling Company Royal Engineers on Luqa.

3 November 1942: Empire Patrol’s Cover Blown

At 1330 hours today Empire Patrol, sailing under Turkish colours with fuel supplies for Malta, was spotted by a German Dornier 215 on reconnaissance to the north west of Cyprus. Three hours later the ship’s monitors picked up traces of a submarine which was evidently shadowing the merchantman.

The ship had already been plagued with electrical and diesel defects which threatened her power and compromised her potential for evading attack. The Royal Naval Reserve Lieutenant in command of the ship decided its disguise had been compromised and decided to abandon the mission. Empire Patrol headed straight for Famagusta.

HMS Clyde

There was some relief for Malta’s ongoing fuel shortage today as HMS Clyde arrived from Beirut with a cargo of petrol and torpedoes. This will provide a temporary top-up, but supplies are still inadequate to support the Island’s air strength, to defend itself and support the war effort in North Africa, which is now at a critical stage.

MALTA WELLINGTONS DESTROY AXIS FUEL SUPPLY

Malta-based Wellingtons launched successful attacks on enemy supply shipping tonight. Just after 10 pm Wellingtons of 69 Squadron were despatched to attack an enemy southbound convoy heading for Benghazi. One Wellington found two medium merchant vessels with three destroyers 118 miles north of Benghazi and attacked. Two Wellingtons from the Middle East were in the same area and set off flares to illuminate the target. The Malta Wellington’s torpedo scored a hit on the bows of one heavily laden merchantman, leaving it stationary and down by the bows.

A second convoy of eight vessels, including a tanker, was found 80 miles north of Cape Aamer. Two Wellingtons attacked with bombs and two with torpedoes. One torpedo hit was scored aft of the tanker. A reconnaissance aircraft later reported three separate oil patches each 500 feet across at the location of the attack. Reports confirm that one tanker and one merchant vessel were hit by torpedoes and sunk. All aircraft returned safely.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 3 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 4 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fair, becoming cloudy.

0850-0900 hrs Nine Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to practice flying and for intercept patrol: no sightings.

1047-1110 hrs Air raid alert for about 20 enemy fighters including fighter bombers. Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept and sight two ME 109s but do not engage. The raiders cross the coast and drop bombs on Luqa and Mqabba. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1342-1425 hrs Air raid alert as 15 enemy fighters escorting fighter bombers approach the Island. Seven Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept and chase the raiders down to 10000 feet. Yellow Section engages three Macchi 202s north of Grand Harbour: Sgt Gunstone destroys one. One Spitfire receives a direct hit and is burned out. A few raiders cross the coast and drop bombs on Luqa, making one runway temporarily unserviceable, and on Mqabba.

1537-1606 hrs Air raid alert for 12 enemy fighters approaching the Island. Four Spitfires 249 Squadron airborne for practice flying and intercept patrol sight two ME 109s and give chase but cannot catch them. Raiders cross the coast and drop bombs on Zejtun and on Hal Far, where a Spitfire suffers a direct hit and is destroyed on the ground. Heavy Ack Ack fire.

1630-1720 hrs Enemy fighters attack a submarine off south coast near Delimara. 4^th Heavy Ack Ack Regiment put up a protective barrage over the submarine. Four Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to provide a protective patrol.

0100-0137 hrs Air raid alert for three enemy bombers which cross the coast and drop bombs on Birzebbuga and the Hal Far-Kalafrana area. Heavy Ack Ack fire. Malta fighters are airborne: no engagements.

0458-0637 hrs Two Beaufighters on anti E boat patrol. No E boats are seen but a schooner is sighted and shot up.

Military casualties Flying Officer Roland Ambrose, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Sergeant Thomas Bailey, RAF; Sergeant Charles Cockburn, RAF VR; Sergeant Thomas Elder, RAF; Flight Sergeant Ronald Mitchell, RAF VR; Sergeant Harold Warren, RAF VR; Flight Lieutenant Terence Sassoon, RAF VR; Sergeant Kenneth Thorne, RAF VR, all 202 Squadron. Flying Officer Egbert Wall, Royal Australian Air Force.

Civilian casualties Lija Anthony Camilleri, age 56; Saviour Cutajar, age 48; Peter Fenech, age 82; Joseph Galea, age 55; Carmela Zammit, age 24; Anthony Zammit, age 10. Zebbug Joseph Abdilla, age 11; Antonia Bonanno, age 16; Salvina Bonanno, age 7; Emanuel Buhagiar, age 29; Philip Muscat, age 75; Anthony Muscat, age 18; Carmela Muscat, age 5. Gozo (Victoria) Carmela Galea, age 56.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 3 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Clyde arrived from Beirut and was swept in by Hythe, Speedy and four MLs; a large escort was used as it was suspected that mines were laid last night. Speedy swept P 211, P 212 and P 217 out, and Hythe swept out Una and Utmost, to join major operations in the Mediterranean.

AIR HQ Arrivals One DC 3, one Wellington from LG 224; one Liberator from Middle East. Departures One Beaufighter to Abusuier; one Liberator to Gibraltar; one DC 3 to Middle East.

LUQA Spitfires 69 Squadron on photo-reconnaissance.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Working party A Company continues to work for Royal Engineers in Floriana. 1530 hrs Funeral of the late [Lance Corporal] Tarr.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 1645 hrs Private T Seville died in No 90 General Hospital as a result of a gunshot wound to the knee.

4 November 1942: 8th Army Breaks Axis Lines

Panzer tanks in Cyrenaica

Malta troops today heard the news that the 2^nd Battle of El Alamein has been won by the Allies. Sources in North Africa report that the 8^th Army has broken through in the Middle East. The Axis losses of men and equipment is so great that Rommel has ordered his Afrika Korps into full retreat.

The skies over Malta remained silent throughout the day, giving the Island time to reflect on the significance of this major step forward in the war in the Mediterranean.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 4 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 5 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Mainly fine.

No air raids.

0600-0710 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron were airborne to provide cover for Beaufighters on anti E-boat patrol. No enemy aircraft are seen.

Military casualties Flying Officer Harold Bardsley, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Flight Sergeant Geoffrey Green, Royal Air Force; Sergeant Ernest Jones, RAF VR; Pilot Officer Edward Sleigh, Royal Air Force; Sergeant Thomas Millar, RAF VR; Sergeant John Ritchie, RAF VR; Warrant Officer Joseph Keough, Royal Canadian Air Force, all 210 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 4 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Turbulent was swept in by Rye, who later swept out HM Submarines Pandora and Turbulent – the last two of the twelve submarines sailing to take up position for a major forthcoming operation in the Mediterranean. No mines have yet been swept in the areas where the E boats were operating on the past two nights.

AIR HQ Departures Two Wellingtons to Gianaclis.

LUQA One Spitfire 69 Squadron on photographic reconnaissance of east Sicilian aerodromes and Catania harbour.

TA QALI 229 Squadron stood down.

5 November 1942: Axis Armies Taken Prisoner

Italians led into captivity at El Alamein

Having broken through the enemy’s position on the El Alamein line, the Eighth Army have continued in pursuit of Rommel’s forces throughout today. The Allies have taken large numbers of Axis prisoners were taken and seized vast quantities of motor transport equipment and stores. The German rearguards have attempted a delaying action with fighting southwest of the Fuka escarpment.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 5 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 6 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fine to fair.

1530-1557 hrs Air raid alert for 15 enemy fighters which cross the coast on a sweep. Heavy Ack Ack fire. Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa join other fighters engaging the enemy: F/Lt Burgess damages one ME 109.

1929-1942 hrs One Cant Z 1007 approaches the Island at 20000 feet and drops bombs in the sea over Comino Channel and St Paul’s Bay. Beaufighter pilot S/Ldr Pain of 89 Squadron is airborne to intercept and shoots down the bomber in flames. Two Italians are taken prisoner by the Gozo Patrol, 1^st Bn King’s Own Malta Regiment. One of them is wounded and admitted to 45 General Hospital; the other is handed over to the Camp Commander at St Andrew’s.

2250-2331 hrs Two enemy bombers approach the Island and drop bombs in the sea off St Paul’s Bay and Grand Harbour. Malta fighters are airborne: no engagements.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 5 NOVEMBER 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals Six Wellingtons from LG 224; one Wellington from Gianaclis; one DC 3 from LG 224; two Beaufighters from Middle East. Departures One DC3, one Liberator to LG 224.

HAL FAR Night The ASV Swordfish was dispatched to provide illumination for an attack on E boats by Beaufighters. The Swordfish located and illuminated the enemy vessels but the Beaufighter strike did not make contact.

LUQA Seven Spitfires 69 Squadron were airborne for photo-reconnaissance.

6 November 1942: Four New Squadrons in Malta

Two new Beaufighter Squadrons are now to operate from Malta. The first aircraft of 227 and 272 Squadrons arrived today to prepare for operations. 13 Beaufighters of 227 Squadron and 16 of 272 Squadron landed safely from the Middle East ready to begin operations immediately. They were joined by 13 Beauforts of 39 Squadron which also arrived from the Middle East.

104 Squadron Vickers Wellington Mk II

Detachments of 40 Squadron and 104 Squadrons RAF have been posted to Malta. The Wellington medium bomber squadrons which form 238 Bomber Wing are to operate from Luqa aerodrome for the time being as part of the Allied offensive in North Africa. Eight Vickers Wellington II aircraft of 104 Squadron, whose motto is ‘Strike hard’, have already arrived and more are expected imminently. The policy is for 32 aircraft to be operational whenever possible.

Three other RAF squadrons in Malta were increased today with the arrival of 13 Beauforts from 39 Squadron, 13 Beaufighters 227 Squadron, 16 Beaufighters 272 Squadron from the Middle East.

SUB BRINGS STORES IN LATEST CLUB RUN

HM Submarine Porpoise arrived today, carrying further supplies of aviation fuel, plus general stores and mail for Malta. Porpoise sailed from Beirut last Thursday for this latest submarine delivery of urgent stores for the Island, known as ‘club runs’.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 6 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 7 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Fair early, becoming cloudy.

1112-1200 hrs Air raid alert as 36 enemy fighters approach the Island at great height. Spitfires of 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled and intercept the raiders well to the north and again over the Island but the enemy escapes engagement. Five Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are also scrambled to intercept. They are jumped by ME 109s, break formation and return to base. One Spitfire is slightly damaged in combat: pilot unhurt. Half the raiders cross the coast: Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds – no claims.

1420 hrs Spitfires of 126 Squadron Luqa patrol over Malta through the afternoon.

1545-1630 hrs Sixteen Beaufighters 272 Squadron land at Ta Qali.

1645-1740 hrs Six Spitfires 229 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 6 NOVEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Porpoise arrived and was swept in by Speedy.

AIR HQ Arrivals 13 Beauforts from 39 Squadron, 13 Beaufighters 227 Squadron, 16 Beaufighters 272 Squadron from Middle East; one Beaufighter from photo-reconnaissance 69 Squadron; one Beaufighter from 89 Squadron; three Baltimores from LG 227; five Spitfires, one Liberator from Gibraltar; one Wellington from Gianaclis. Aircraft casualties One Beaufort ran into a bomb crater: crew uninjured. One Beaufighter crashed on landing: crew uninjured. One Wellington missing in transit from LG 224 to Malta.

HAL FAR 185 Squadron released. 1527 hrs; 1603 hrs Two Beauforts arrived.

LUQA Six Spitfires 69 Squadron carried out photo-reconnaissance of Naples, Palermo, Trapani, Taranto, Augusto, Brindisi and Messina. Six Wellingtons 69 Squadron carrying torpedoes were sent on reconnaissance for enemy naval units: no sightings.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS Personnel of Bn engaged on co-operational duties with RAF at Luqa aerodrome 0400-1900 hrs: 2 Officers 80 Other Ranks penmen & maintenance Spitfires; 2 Officers 100 Other Ranks GD bombing & refuelling Wellingtons; 2 Other Ranks GD Baltimores; 1 Officer 33 Other Ranks GD Beaufighters; 36 Other Ranks armament assistants.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT Private T Seville buried at Imtarfa Cemetery.

2^nd Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT 9 trucks, 1 motor-cycle, 1 Officer and 20 Other Ranks reported for fatigue duties on Ta Qali.

7 November 1942: Aviation Fuel Enough For 4 Weeks

MOST SECRET TELEGRAM

From: Governor Malta To: Air Ministry Rptd: Cs in C Middle East, Brigadier Jacob, Foreign Secretary, First Sea Lord

1. Stock of aviation fuel remaining 7^th November was 1187 tons. This includes receipts by submarine and a quantity of DTD 224 used for blending and mixing with 100 octane.

2. Expenditure week ending 7^th November was 286 tons.

SITUATION REPORT WEEK ENDING 7 NOVEMBER 1942

Two nursing sisters injured in bombing of Imtarfa

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: C in C Middle East Rpt: The War Office

1. Enemy air activity reduced: three raidless days, seven alerts, total 160 fighters and fighter bombers. Few bombs on aerodromes. RAF destroyed one fighter, damaged one. Small arms destroyed one fighter.

2. Total 13 aircraft of which five only crossed the coast. Slight damage civilian property and Imtarfa military hospital. Two sisters QAIMNS, 15 civilians injured; seven civilians killed. One Cant destroyed by Beaufighter: two Italian prisoners.

3. Offensive activity by RAF against convoys continues. One merchant vessel, one tanker hit. One Beaufighter on patrol Sicily destroyed one JU 88.

4. Some E boat activity off Grand Harbour on four nights; probably minelaying.

5. RAF heavily reinforced for Operation Torch and army providing approximately 1700 personnel for maintenance of aerodromes and servicing aircraft.

6. Morale very high on account of successes in western desert.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 7 NOVEMBER TO DAWN 8 NOVEMBER 1942

Weather Cloudy, becoming fine.

No air raids.

0840-0915 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled: raid does not materialise.

1115-1155 hrs Four Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are airborne on patrol over Malta at 20000 feet: no enemy aircraft seen.

1430-1530 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne on intercept patrol: no sightings.

2015 hrs Two Beaufighters 89 Squadron Luqa are sent on patrol over western Sicily. One Beaufighter sights a JU 88 and shoots it down into the sea. The other Beaufighter fails to return.

Military casualties Flight Sergeant Lincoln Craig, Royal New Zealand Air Force, pilot; Sergeant Keith Donald, Royal New Zealand Air Force, air gunner; Flight-Sergeant Herbert Earney, Royal New Zealand Air Force; Sergeant Oliver Holmes, air gunner, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Flying Officer Samuel Morrison, Royal Air Force (VR); all 104 Squadron, RAF. Flight Sergeant Alistair Paterson, Royal Australian Air Force.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 7 NOVEMBER 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals Five Beauforts 39 Squadron from Mariut; one Liberator, two DC 3s, four Wellingtons from LG 224; one Wellington from Middle East. Departures One Liberator to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Wellington crashed on land: crew killed. One Beaufighter failed to return from operations: crew missing.

LUQA Aircraft of 40 Squadron arrived. Nine Spitfires 69 Squadron on photo-reconnaissance morning and afternoon. Wellingtons of 69 Squadron and 104 Squadron were sent on shipping searches in Marittimo-Cavoli area: no shipping sighted.

4^th Bn THE BUFFS Personnel of Bn engaged with RAF at Luqa aerodrome as for 6 November.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT During the week 1-7^th November the Bn has found working parties at Hal Far: 2 impressed lorries and 4 Other Ranks for crater-filling; 1 motor-cycle and 1 Other Ranks as special D/R.

2^nd Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT 9 trucks, 1 motor-cycle, 1 Officer and 20 Other Ranks reported for fatigue duties on Ta Qali.

All written content © maltagc70 unless otherwise attributed. For conditions of use contact bdmalta@btinternet.com

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Posted by maltagc70 on November 7, 2022 in 1942, November 1942

Tags: 104 Squadron, 126 Squadron, 1435 Squadron, 185 Squadron, 210 Squadron, 229 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 40 Squadron, 69 Squadron, 89 Squadron, El Alamein, Empire Patrol, Malta, Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Naval Air Service, war diary, World War Two

25-31 October 1942: Turning Point in War Over Malta

31 Oct

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25 October 1942: Enemy Air Attacks Declining

JU 88 bombers have gone from Malta’s skies

The enemy’s latest attempt to neutralise Malta appears to have lost momentum. It is now two weeks since Axis forces launched heaviest bombing raids since April. In that time some 350 aircraft have been destroyed or damaged by the Island’s defenders – including forty bombers. Despite the concentration of bombs aimed at the three airfields, none of the runways has been put out of action for more than 30 minutes.

Since 18 October no twin-engined aircraft have approached the Island and attacks have been limited to ‘tip and run’ raids – often at high level – by heavily escorted fighter bombers. Their only advantage has been provided by frequent heavy cloud over the Island, which has allowed the few successful raiders to get through, and provided cover for those attempting to escape Malta’s fighters.

During today the enemy carried out fighter sweeps and four fighter bomber raids on Ta Qali, Hal Far and Luqa. 140 raiders were involved in attacks, which were launched at heights ranging from 12000 to 3000 feet. Fighters are now adopting a new tactic of receding at sea level to escape interception by the Island’s Spitfires. There were no night air raids.

RAIDS DAWN 25 OCTOBER TO DAWN 26 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Mainly fine: fair late evening.

0600-0720 hrs Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are airborne for a raid which does not materialise.

0721-0800 hrs Air raid alert for 25 enemy fighters including ME 109 fighter bombers approaching the Island. Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept but are attacked by enemy fighters out of the sun: no claims. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are also scrambled and engage the raiders north of Gozo: F/Lt Smith destroys one ME 109; Sgt Hughes probably destroys another. The fighter bombers are forced to jettison their bombs in the sea. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

0815-0850 hrs Air raid alert for 17 plus enemy fighters and fighter bombers approaching the Island. Four Spitfires 229 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: F/Lt Parkinson damages one Macchi 202. Most of the raiders cross the coast and bombs are dropped on Luqa and Ta Qali.

As enemy fighters turn away from the airfield they machine-gun Heavy Ack Ack gun positions. One ME 109 is destroyed by small arms fire and Light Ack Ack and crashes on the edge of the aerodrome. One ME 109 is destroyed by Light and Heavy Ack Ack guns off Delimara by Height Control shooting at 18000 feet. Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Tal Qali are also airborne and chase enemy fighters to within 20 miles of Sicily but cannot engage them.

0925-0951 hrs Air raid alert for 15 enemy fighters and fighter bombers which cross the coast, dropping bombs on Hal Far. Eight Spitfires are scrambled from Hal Far to intercept but were unable to do so due to the enemy’s superior speed. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1110-1200 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1238 hrs Air raid alert as 25 enemy fighters and fighter bombers approach Malta. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept: no claims. Four Spitfires 229 Squadron are also scrambled and attempt to engage two Macchi 202s which turn and flee. The Spitfires chase them to ten miles off the coast of Sicily but are unable to catch them.

1234 hrs The remaining raiders, about half, cross the coast and drop bombs on Luqa, destroying one Beaufighter and damaging a Spitfire on the ground. Gun position XHB 7 of 4^th Heavy Ack Ack Regt RA destroys one ME 109. Two ME 109 fighter bombers are engaged at 2500 feet by two guns of 225 Light Ack Ack Battery.

1248 hrs Four fighter bombers drop bombs on the Safi strip, Kirkop and Mqabba village areas.

1300 hrs Raiders passed.

1350-1445 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron on intercept patrol (one returns early): no sightings.

1415-1530 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron, then four 249 Squadron are on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1517 hrs Air raid alert for the approach of 50 ME 109s and Macchi 202s with fighter bombers. Ten Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: no claims. One Spitfire and pilot, Sgt Park, are missing. Seven Spitfires from Hal Far are scrambled to intercept and see three ME 109s but the raiders are too high and distant to intercept. Four Spitfires 229 Squadron are also scrambled but fail in their attempt to engage the enemy aircraft, some of which jettison their bombs in the sea. Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled and attack Macchi fighters but are jumped from above by other fighters acting as cover: no claims or losses. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims. Some raiders cross the coast and drop bombs on Luqa.

1600 hrs D Company 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report a plane crashed in the sea on the horizon.

1620 hrs All clear.

1715-1750 hrs Two Spitfires 126 Squadron are airborne to search for the missing dinghy of Sgt Park but find nothing.

1825-2115 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron Luqa takes up the search for the missing dinghy: nothing is found.

1940 hrs D Company 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report a green verey light 4-5 miles out to sea.

2330-0100 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron is scrambled for a reported raid which does not materialise: no enemy aircraft seen.

Military casualties Sergeant George Bushnell, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve; Flying Officer Richard Bendwig, Royal Canadian Air Force; Flying Officer Millard Liebeck, Royal Canadian Air Force; Pilot Officer Nigel Park, Royal New Zealand Air Force, 126 Squadron; Flying Officer Fred Wickstrom, Royal Canadian Air Force.

Civilian casualties Nil.

Enemy casualties Oberleutnant Richard Eckhardt, pilot of a Messerchmitt Bf109 fighter.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 25 OCTOBER 1942

P 35 HMS Umbra

ROYAL NAVY Speedy swept P 35 in from patrol: the submarine returned to Malta after a four day patrol in which a heavily leaden merchant ship which had beached itself near Homs as a result of an air attack was further damaged by two torpedo hits.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Spitfires, one Hudson, one Liberator from Gibraltar; one DC 3 from LG 224. Departures Two Beauforts, one DC 3 to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire failed to return to base: pilot missing. One Beaufort missing in transit between Malta and LG 224, believed shot down by enemy aircraft: pilot missing.

HAL FAR One Special Swordfish and one Albacore were sent on anti-submarine patrol north of Homs: nothing seen.

LUQA One Baltimore 69 Squadron carried out a search for enemy shipping to the east of Benghazi. One Spitfire 69 Squadron carried out photo-reconnaissance of Cagliari.

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Winter Dress came into use today.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT A and B Companies beach post firing at towed target.

26 October 1942: Malta Bombers Back On The Attack

Wellington bomber

Malta bombers have carried out their first attack on an enemy convoy since last Monday night. Reports were received from reconnaissance aircraft of a southbound convoy off the west coast of Greece and tonight three special Wellingtons of 69 Squadron were sent to attack.

One aircraft returned unserviceable after 14 minutes but the other two pressed on towards the target area. One of the Wellingtons located the convoy of one tanker and one merchant vessel, both about 5000 tons, 18 miles to the south west of Antipaxos. The aircraft then lost visibility and had to abandon the attack, bringing its torpedo back to base. But the third Wellington was able to close in on the convoy and dropped two 1000 lb bombs. Results are not yet confirmed.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 26 OCTOBER TO DAWN 27 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Showery.

0629-0742 hrs One Hurricane from Hal Far searches for a dinghy 8-10 miles north west of Gozo. A body is seen floating in an uninflated dinghy. The Hurricane has to return to base due to an incoming air raid.

0654-0750 hrs Air raid alert for 35 enemy fighters including fighter bombers approaching the Island. Eight Spitfires from Hal Far are scrambled to intercept and see six ME 109s but they are too distant to engage. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are also scrambled: P/O McLennan destroys one ME 109. One Spitfire is damaged in combat: pilot unhurt. About half the raiders are intercepted by Malta fighters north of the Island and turn back. The remainder cross the coast and bombs are dropped on Ta Qali. Heavy Ack Ack fire. One ME 109 is destroyed. One Spitfire is damaged in combat: pilot unjurt.

0813-0939 hrs The Hurricane from Hal Far returns to the area where the pilot earlier spotted the dinghy but finds nothing. The High Speed Launch is seen in the same area.

1039-1120 hrs Air raid alert for the approach of 35 enemy fighters and fighter bombers. Six Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept but do not engage. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are also scrambled and engage the first wave of raiders north of the Island: F/L Rolls probably destroys one ME 109. As incoming waves of raiders attempt to cross the coast the Spitfires force them to split up: a few get through to drop bombs near Luqa airfield. Heavy Ack Ack fire and two ME 109 fighter bombers are engaged at 3000 feet by two guns of 225 Light Ack Ack Battery.

1410-1535 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1515-1537 hrs Air raid alert for the approach of 40 enemy fighters and fighter bombers, including six bomb-carrying ME 109s. Eight Spitfires from Hal Far are scrambled to intercept but sight nothing. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron are also scrambled and intercept the raiders over the Island: P/O Walton destroys one ME 109; S/L Lovell damages another. Heavy Ack Ack fire. Bombs are dropped near Birzebbuga, Hal Far and Ghar Dalam, where an Ack Ack ammunition dump is hit by a bomb. 60 boxes of ammunition are damaged and the dump is set on fire. The blaze is quickly extinguished by Sgt Willis and other personnel of D Company, 1^st Bn Devonshire Regt and of A Company 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Reg under Captain Lovering, as well as Royal Artillery personnel.

Night No air raids.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

HMS Hebe

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 26 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Hebe swept P 212 returning from an uneventful patrol in the Cape Dukato area.

AIR HQ Departures One Hudson, one Liberator to Gibraltar; one Wellington to Shallufa.

LUQA One Spitfire 69 Squadron was sent on a shipping search of Pantelleria and Kerkenna.

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY B Company took over coast patrol and Tal Virtu observation post.

27 October 1942: RAF Sink Rommel’s Hopes For El Alamein

“The desert was quivering with heat. The gun detachments and the platoons squatted in their pits and trenches, the sweat running in rivers down their dust-caked faces. There was a terrible stench. The flies swarmed in black clouds upon the dead bodies and excreta and tormented the wounded. The place was strewn with burning tanks and carriers, wrecked guns and vehicles, and over all drifted the smoke and the dust from bursting high explosives and from the blasts of guns.” (1)

British troops on the move in North Africa

Axis hopes of gaining supremacy in the North African suffered a double blow today thanks to Allied forces. Torpedo bombers of 42 Squadron RAF sank an oil tanker at Tobruk, destroying Rommel’s last hope for much-needed fuel supplies. The Axis sea convoy comprised three merchant ships with four escorting destroyers and escorting planes overhead. Allied heavy and light bombers and torpedo planes attacked relentlessly in the face of terrific fire from the destroyers. Only one of the supply ships escaped. A large merchantman blew up and the tanker was set on fire and sank. The sinking follows several successful attacks on tankers by Malta-based air forces. The German Field Marshal, who arrived back in North Africa on Sunday to resume command of Axis forces, now has only three days’ fuel to supply his armies.

Meanwhile the Allies scored an important victory over enemy tanks at El Alamein. Having battled throughout the day against two counter-offensives by Rommel’s forces, this afternoon they repulsed a determined attack by Axis Panzer divisions, destroying 22 German and 10 Italian tanks before the remainder gave up.

QRENDI STRIP DEVELOPS

Troops building aircraft pens

200 servicemen are now employed building new pens at Qrendi strip. The pens will add to the facilities at the recently-opened air strip, significantly extend the capacity for aircraft based on Malta. The construction work increases the already significant contribution made by the Army to air operations on the Island. Following the recent increased enemy bombardment, 1000 soldiers are now assisting the RAF in the maintenance of aerodromes, servicing and refuelling aircraft.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 27 OCTOBER TO DAWN 28 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Fine: excellent visibility early; electric storm early morning.

0703-0722 hrs Air raid alert for 24 enemy fighters including six ME 109 fighter bombers approaching Malta. Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept and engage raiders 15 miles north of the Island: S/Ldr Woods and P/O McCoy each damage one ME 109. Four Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are also scrambled: no claims. The remaining raiders cross the coast and approach Ta Qali from the east, dropping bombs on the airfield from a height of 10000 feet. Heavy and Light Ack Ack engage: no claims.

0740-0845 hrs Eight Spitfires Hal Far are airborne on intercept patrol: no enemy aircraft seen.

1013-1104 hrs Air raid alert as 60 ME 109s and Macchi 202s including several ME 109 fighter bombers approach the coast in several waves. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron, four Spitfires 249 Squadron and eight 229 Squadron are scrambled to intercept but the enemy takes strong evasive action: no claims. One Spitfire is damaged in combat: pilot slightly injured. High explosives including delayed action bombs are dropped on Luqa and the Safi strip from about 14000 feet. One aircraft is destroyed on the ground and another damaged. One ME 109 is probably destroyed by Light Ack Ack.

1457-1518 hrs Air raid alert as 40 ME 109s and Macchi 202s including fighter bombers approach the Island at great height. Seven Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept and successfully attack 25 fighters and fighter bombers, which they force to jettison their bombs in the sea. F/Lt McElroy damages one Macchi 202. The raiders turn back at speed, along with the majority of their escort. One Spitfire is damaged: pilot slightly injured. Eight Spitfires Hal Far are also airborne but see no enemy aircraft. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds.

Night No air raids.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 27 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY The area between Grand Harbour and St Julian’s Bay was swept on 27th October by the 3rd ML Flotilla, prior to divers working on the submarine telegraph cables. Three mines were disposed of bringing the total destroyed by this flotilla to 100.

AIR HQ Departures One DC 3 to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire damaged in enemy action crash-landed: pilot injured.

1^st Bn DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT AM GOC watched an exercise incorporating practice landings from motorized landing craft.

28 October 1942: Operation Train Brings Reinforcements

HMS Furious

The fast minelayer HMS Welshman also sailed with the convoy carrying emergency supplies for Malta.

ATTACK ON SUBMARINE BASE KILLS THREE

A dive bombing attack on Malta’s submarine base this morning killed three civilians in Sliema. The raid was the second attempted strike at the base today – the first was beaten off by Malta fighters before the enemy aircraft reached the Island.

The air raid alert just before 9.30 am heralded a second attack by 30 raiders which approached the Island at 27000 feet. Among them were a dozen ME 109 fighter bombers which swooped down to 12000 feet and then into a shallow dive as they crossed the coast towards their objective in Marsamxetto harbour. Spitfires engage the raiders as they are still in their dive, causing several to jettison their bombs. However several bombs did fall on Tigne Barracks, Sliema and Gzira, where three civilians were killed. Civilian property was also damaged in the raid.

HMS Welshman

The Island was spared a third air raid as the enemy aircraft turned back before coming within 10 miles of the coast.

MALTA WELLINGTONS SINK ANOTHER AXIS TANKER

“The AOC sends personal congratulations to 69 Squadron on its brilliantly executed torpedo attack on the enemy convoy on the night of 28/29^th October.”

A very successful attack was carried out tonight against an enemy convoy off the Greek coast. A reconnaissance Baltimore had earlier reported a convoy of one tanker and a merchant vessel, escorted by three destroyers, off Sapienza. Three Wellingtons 69 Squadron, one carrying bombs and one carrying torpedoes, were sent to locate and attack the vessels. The bomb-carrying Wellington returned early with engine trouble and crash-landed, having jettisoned its bombs in the sea.

The other two Wellingtons sighted a tanker and a merchant vessel and went in for the attack. Pilot Officer Matthews scored a direct hit on the merchant vessel with a torpedo. Pilot Officer Donkersley arrived on the scene at 2252 hours and found no trace of the merchant vessel. He aimed his bombs at the tanker, setting it ablaze from stem to stern. A reconnaissance aircraft inspecting the area later found nothing but wreckage, oil streaks and a half-submerged barrage balloon.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 28 OCTOBER TO DAWN 29 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Fine; cloudy late evening.

0625-0735 hrs; 0635-0820 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali then eight from Hal Far on intercept patrol: no sightings.

0716-0734 hrs Air raid alert sounds for 40 enemy fighters approaching Malta. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa and nine of 249 Squadron are scrambled and intercept the main formation to the north of the Island. The Spitfires attempt an engagement from above but the enemy fighters disperse into the clouds and out of sight before heading back to Sicily: no claims.

0924-1001 hrs Air raid alert as 30 enemy fighters and fighter bombers approach the Island. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept and fire short bursts at raiders as they head towards Grand Harbour, causing several to drop their bombs. Seven Spitfires 229 Squadron and eight 249 Squadron Ta Qali are also scrambled but do not engage. P/O Giddings 249 Squadron crashes on take-off and is admitted to hospital with a fractured arm. The remaining raiders cross the coast and drop bombs on Sliema, Gzira and Tigne Barracks area causing damage to property and civilian casualties. Heavy and Light Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1045-1140 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1233-1247 hrs Air raid alert for enemy fighters approaching the Island. Four Spitfires from Hal Far are conducting a practice flight when they see two ME 109s: they turn to engage but the enemy aircraft evade action. All the fighters recede before coming within 10 miles of the Island but then recede.

1335-1500 hrs Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron are on intercept patrol: no sightings.

Military casualties Chargeman E Wright, HM Dockyard.

Civilian casualties Gzira Ritz Falzon, age 19; Carmela Micallef, age 42; Vincenza Rice, age 40.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 28 OCTOBER 1942

LUQA Spitfires 69 Squadron were despatched on photo-reconnaissance of Navarino, eastern Sicily, Messina, Palermo, Gabini and Pachino.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT 1600 hrs Regiment band playing at Birkirkara.

29 October 1942: German Pilots Sick of Fight For Malta

German aircraft losses dent morale (c) IWM CM 745

The strain of fighting for air supremacy over Malta is clearly beginning to tell on the enemy air forces. “Experienced German pilots who became prisoners of war during this month have admitted to a general distaste among the German air force for fights over Malta. This reluctance is not surprising when it is seen that, in the course of their unsuccessful October offensive, the Axis powers lost 15 air crew for every British pilot lost.” War Diary, Air HQ, Malta October 1942

SPITFIRES AND SUPPLIES

Twenty nine Spitfires were flown off from HMS Furious today and all landed safely at Malta. Two others remained on board the aircraft carrier due to defects. Enemy aircraft made some attempts to intercept the incoming aircraft but continuous cover by Spitfires deterred any serious threat.

At the same time, HMS Welshman detached from the convoy ships to make independent passage to Malta. The fast minelayer carries some 350 tons of much-needed cargo in her holds. Welshman’s exceptionally fast speed has brought her through several supply missions to the Island and the Dockyard is preparing for a fast unload on her arrival. After their successful delivery, Furious and her escort ships turned and set course immediately for Gibraltar.

MALTA FLOTILLA GRABS 100^TH MINE

The Vice Admiral Malta reported that the Third Motor Launch Flotilla in addition to their many other valuable services had swept up their hundredth mine in the approaches to Malta.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 29 OCTOBER TO DAWN 30 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Fine; almost cloudless.

0750-0855 hrs Eight Spitfires Hal Far patrol over the Island: no enemy aircraft sighted.

0910-1010 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are on intercept patrol: no sightings.

0956-1120 hrs Air raid alert. 42 enemy fighters approach the Island from the north in five formations of six and three formations of eight aircraft each. They attempt to intercept delivery Spitfires as they come in to land. Malta fighters are airborne but the enemy recede before engaging. The delivery Spitfires land safely.

1020-1125 hrs Seven Spitfires Hal Far patrol over Grand Harbour area: no enemy aircraft sighted.

1100-1230 hrs Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1232-1310 hrs Air raid alert for a small number of enemy fighters on a high fighter sweep. Malta fighters are airborne: no engagements. Heavy and Light Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1339-1345 hrs Eight delivery Spitfires land at Hal Far.

1849-1910 hrs Air raid alert for two enemy aircraft which approach the Island at 22-25000 feet and drop bombs in the sea three miles north of the Island. One Beaufighter 89 Squadron Luqa patrols to the north of Malta but sees nothing.

Military casualties Flight Sergeant Walter Parks, Royal Australian Air Force.

Civilian casualties Naxxar Emanuel Grech, age 52.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 29 OCTOBER 1942

AIR HQ Aircraft casualties Two Spitfires crashed into construction on taking off: one pilot injured, one killed.

LUQA One Spitfire 69 Squadron was sent on photo-reconnaissance over western Sicily and Pantelleria. One Spitfire 69 Squadron was sent on photo-reconnaissance of enemy shipping in the area Cape Ducato, Cape St Maria di Leuca and Taranto. Two special Wellingtons 69 Squadron were sent to attack an enemy convoy sighted by a photo-reconnaissance Spitfire but did not find it.

30 October 1942: RAF Win Latest Battle For Skies Over Malta

B flight RAF 249 Squadron Malta July 42

The skies fell silent over Malta today. The absence of air raids is an indication that the RAF has finally secured air supremacy over the Island after the failure of the latest enemy bombing campaign. With strong fighter escort and a small number of bombers, the enemy has tried to neutralise the aerodromes in order to protect the passage of important convoys to Tripolitania and Libya.

During daylight in October the enemy flew a total of about 250 bomber and 3500 fighter and fighter-bomber sorties against Malta. Spitfires definitely destroyed a total of 49 bombers and 78 fighters. By night during the month Beaufighters of 89 Squadron made a total of 61 sorties including 15 intruder patrols over enemy aerodromes and harbours. Five enemy night bombers were destroyed. Malta’s losses were 38 aircraft destroyed, mainly Spitfires.

The policy adopted by the RAF of intercepting the enemy north of the island has proved eminently successful. The enemy reverted to high flying tactics using cloud cover; some damage was done to the aerodromes but without any serious impact. Finding these tactics too costly, the enemy has now left Malta well alone.

AMMUNITION USE AND FUEL RATIONING TIGHTENED

Heavy Ack Ack Brigades have issued orders restricting the firing pattern of anti-aircraft positions. From today, only guns in certain strategic positions may engage enemy fighter aircraft, and then only by pointers. However, all gun positions will continue to engage any enemy aircraft clearly identified as bomb-carrying.

Petrol economies are also now being strictly enforced across all Services in Malta as fuel shortages continue to concern the Island’s commanders.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 30 OCTOBER TO DAWN 31 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Variable becoming fine: cloudless evening.

0740-0830 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1350-1450 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on intercept patrol: no sightings.

Night No air raids.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

HMS Rorqual

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 30 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY HMS Rorqual arrived with stores from Beirut, swept in by Rye.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Liberators from Gibraltar.

HAL FAR 1640-1735 hrs Four Spitfires carried out a reconnaissance patrol over south east Sicily while four others provided cover for their return.

LUQA One Spitfire 69 Squadron was despatched on photo-reconnaissance of Tripoli.

31 October 1942: 14 Attacks On Axis Convoys

AIR RAID STATISTICS OCTOBER 1942

Total number of alerts to date 3135
Total number of alerts this month 152
Number of blank days 2
Number of night raids 41
Raid free nights 19
Alerts for own planes 7
Total time from air raid alert to raiders passed 4 days, 2 hrs, 11 mins
Average length of alert 38.2 mins
P 246 HMS Statesman

ROYAL NAVY SUMMARY FOR OCTOBER

Twenty seven attacks were carried out from Malta during the month, fourteen of which were successful. Three were against merchant ships already beached after air attacks. Ten merchant vessels, aggregating 23900 tons were sunk as well as one fleet destroyer, a tug, and two schooners. The strength of the Flotilla was brought up to eleven operational submarines by the arrival of P 212 on 9th October and of P 246 on the 19th.

Four submarines continued store-carrying trips to Malta with petrol and vital supplies from Gibraltar and Beirut. The First and Tenth Submarine Flotillas carried out many brilliant attacks on Axis convoys and shipping running to Libya. An attack on a heavily escorted southbound convoy of one tanker and three merchant ships bound for Tripoli by five submarines off Pantellaria was particularly noteworthy. Albacore and Swordfish aircraft made many attacks before the convoy ran into the submarine concentration. P 211 sank one merchant vessel, stopped after air attack, P 37 sank a destroyer and one merchant vessel in the convoy, and it possible that P 42 also damaged a merchant vessel. The latter was very accurately counterattacked and damaged, and force to return to Malta.

SITUATION REPORT WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 31

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: C in C Middle East Rptd: The War Office

1. Enemy air activity on a much reduced scale. 16 alerts. Total 290 Spitfire sorties against 650 enemy sorties. No alerts after 1300 hrs 29 October. Raids consisted of fighter bombers heavily escorted. Many jettisoned their bombs in the sea. A few bombs on the aerodromes. Ack Ack dump was set on fire and extinguished by soldiers. Spitfires destroyed three ME 109s, one Macchi 202; probably destroyed two ME 109s; damaged three ME 109s and one Macchi 202. Ack Ack destroyed two ME 109s; probably destroyed one ME 109. Photo reconnaissance shows a general decrease 100 enemy aircraft in Sicily but an increase on western aerodromes, particularly JU 84 (or 87)s.

2. Eight Wellington sorties against enemy convoys. One tanker and one merchant vessel sunk. Two 1000 lb bombs aimed at a vessel, believed a tanker: results unobserved.

3. Army working parties total about 600 on aerodromes and 200 men building the new Qrendi landing strip. Minor combined operations training being carried out with MLCS.

4. Military damage negligible.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 31 OCTOBER TO DAWN 1 NOVEMBER 1942

0755-0830 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on intercept patrol: no raid materialised; no sightings.

1100-1135 hrs Four Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled to intercept a possible approaching air raid which does not materialise.

1630 hrs The regimental band and drums of 2^nd Bn Royal West Kent Regiment Beat the Retreat at Sliema. His Excellency the Governor and GOC Troops is in attendance.

Military casualties Private Raymond Hurley, 2nd Battalion, Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment; Lance Corporal Gerald Tarr, 1st Battalion, Cheshire Regiment.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 31 OCTOBER 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals One DC 3 from Middle East. Departures One Liberator to Gibraltar; one Liberator to LG 224.

HAL FAR 0630-0735 hrs Four Spitfires patrolled over south east Sicily: nothing sighted. 2135-0235 hrs One special Swordfish and two strike Albacores searched for shipping between Tripoli and Homs: no sightings.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT Lance Corporal G A Tarr fell down a 30 foot well in Valletta and was killed.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT During the period 22-31 October the Battalion has found two impressed lorries, one motor-cycle and five Other Ranks for work in Hal Far aerodrome. During daylight two twin Lewis guns have been manned in anti-aircraft defence of the Safi strip.

2^nd Bn ROYAL WEST KENT REGIMENT Private Hurley, A Company, died from multiple injuries caused by falling masonry.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 11. Dealt with: 9 High Explosives (3 x 250kg; 7 x 50kg); 173 anti-personnel bombs; 1 oil incendiary.

(1) Alamein, Cecil Ernest Lucas-Phillips, Little Brown & Co, Boston, 1962

All written content © maltagc70 unless otherwise attributed. For conditions of use contact bdmalta@btinternet.com

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Posted by maltagc70 on October 31, 2022 in 1942, October 1942

Tags: 126 Squadron, 1435 Squadron, 185 Squadron, 229 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 3rd Minelaying Flotilla, 69 Squadron, 89 Squadron, bomb disposal, Devonshire Regiment, Dorsetshire Regiment, El Alamein, HMS Welshman, Malta, Royal Artillery, Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Engineers, submarine flotilla, war diary, World War Two

18-24 October 1942: Malta Key to El Alamein Offensive

24 Oct

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“The rugged and indomitable courage of the people of Malta have been an inspiration and encouragement to the Empire.” Commander-in-Chief, Home Fleet Admiral Sir John Tovey announcing a gift of £1755 from the Home Fleet to the Malta Relief Fund

18 October 1942: Petrol Running Out

Troops use cycles to save petrol (NWMA Malta)

Military chiefs met today in Valletta to discuss how to manage the rapidly decreasing fuel supplies on the Island. Officers from all Army units were called to attend a Petrol Economy Conference held at the Castille. With no immediate prospect of a convoy reaching Malta, the conference focused on ways of rationing fuel use in order to conserve existing stocks. All possible methods of saving petrol were discussed and several measures decided on, which will be put into operation immediately.

THREE AXIS SUPPLY SHIPS HIT IN RAF AND NAVY ATTACKS

This afternoon a photo-reconnaissance Spitfire sighted two merchant vessels with a 5-6000 ton tanker and one 3-4000 ton merchant vessel with seven destroyers to the west of Sicily, heading southwards. Two Swordfish and one Albacore aircraft were despatched to make a night attack but failed to locate the primary target. They came upon a single merchant vessel of 4-5000 tons 40 miles north west of Pantelleria and attacked with a single torpedo, scoring a direct hit on the stern. The merchantman was last seen down by the stern and going round in circles.

Reconnaissance aircraft also spotted the merchant vessel which was attacked last Wednesday night, beached near Homs. A Swordfish and an Albacore were despatched to make another attack. The Albacore launched one torpedo by the light of flares dropped by the Swordfish but bad visibility prevented the observation of results.

In another offensive mission tonight, four Wellingtons of 69 Squadron Luqa were despatched to attack an 8000 ton tanker escorted by two destroyers, 50 miles east of Point Stilo. Three Wellingtons found the convoy and attacked, one torpedo hitting the tanker’s port bow and causing a red flash. Four 500 lb and two 1000 lb bombs were also dropped but the results were not observed.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 18 OCTOBER TO DAWN 19 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Fog over the sea in the morning; light showers morning and evening.

0622-1010 hrs Two Hurricanes Royal Navy Air Service search off Grand Harbour for a missing dinghy but find nothing.

0701-0738 hrs Air raid alert for about 50 enemy fighters approaching the Island, escorting seven bombers. Eight Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept. Six ME 109s engage them, splitting up the Squadron formation. P/O Reid probably destroys one ME 109. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are also scrambled to intercept: F/Sgt Mortimer (126 Squadron) destroys one ME 109. The enemy bombers turn back while still 15 miles north of the Island and only the fighters come near, some crossing the coast. Seven Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali attempt to intercept the fighters, which evade combat. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds. One Spitfire is damaged in combat: pilot unhurt.

1006-1106 hrs Air raid alert for 35 enemy fighters including a four bomb-carrying ME 109s approaching the Island. The raid probably includes some JU 88s which turn back before reaching Malta. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa, eight Spitfires Hal Far and seven of 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept but do not engage the enemy. Three ME 109s drop six high explosive bombs on Ta Qali aerodrome.

1124-1158 hrs Air raid alert for an approaching formation of 15 enemy fighters and fighter bombers. Seven Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept. Bombs are dropped on Luqa, Ta Salib and San Christu Church area. Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1335-1430 hrs Air raid alert for 20 plus enemy fighters and fighter bombers which approach the Island but do not cross the coast. Six Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept and attack two ME 109s: S/Ldr Stephens damages one. There are reports that the fighter bombers break off and return home before reaching Malta.

1547-1701 hrs Air raid alert for 75 plus enemy fighters including some fighter bombers which cross the coast in small groups. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron and eight 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: Sgt Hamilton 1435 Squadron damages one ME 109. Eight Spitfires Hal Far, plus four 229 Squadron and eight of 249 Squadron Ta Qali are also scrambled but do not engage. Bombs are dropped on Gharghur and Qrendi strip, and on Luqa, damaging one Wellington on the ground. Ack Ack fire: no claims. One Spitfire of 126 Squadron crashes in a field near Gharghur: the pilot P/O Stevenson is killed.

1836-1936 hrs; 2101-2124 hrs; 2227-2258 hrs; 2347-0027 hrs; 0144-0312 hrs; 0350-0450 hrs Air raid alerts for a total of 12 enemy bombers of which 9 cross the coast. Anti-personnel bombs and incendiaries are dropped on Qawra Point, Birkirkara, Hamrun, the Dockyard and Floriana, and in the sea. Two civilians are killed and three injured in Fleur de Lys. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims. HQ Company and billets of 2^nd Bn Royal West Kent Regiment are sprayed with anti-personnel bombs. Three Beaufighters 89 Squadron are airborne on intercept patrols. One Beaufighter sights an enemy aircraft which takes evasive action and escapes. One Beaufighter on patrol over Sicily attacks and damages a JU 88 over Gerbini.

Military casualties Pilot Officer James Stevenson, Royal Canadian Air Force, 126 Squadron, RAF.

Civilian casualties Birkirkara Anthony Camilleri, age 40; Carmela Gatt, age 45; Paul Parlar, age 62; Doris Spiteri, age 8; Maria Carmela Spiteri, age 6; George Zammit, age 8.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 18 OCTOBER 1942

P 211 HMS Safari

ROYAL NAVY Speedy swept P 211 to sea.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Hudson from Gibraltar; one Liberator from LG 224. Departures Two Hudsons to Gibraltar; one DC3 to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire damaged in combat crash-landed: pilot uninjured. One Spitfire crashed: pilot killed.

LUQA 69 Squadron One Spitfire was despatched on a search for enemy shipping from Messina to Cape Rizzuto. One Baltimore was despatched to search for enemy shipping off the Greek coast. One Spitfire was despatched on search for enemy shipping Cape Spartevento to Cape Rizzo. One Spitfire was despatched on photo-reconnaissance of Sicilian harbours and aerodromes.

10^th HEAVY ACKACK REGIMENT, ROYAL ARTILLERY 2/Lt W J Healy was wounded in action at XHE 25.

10^th Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT D Company takes over guard duties of Wardia crossroads.

19 October 1942: Booby-Trapped Cluster Bombs on Malta

Butterfly bomb

A Sapper of Royal Engineers Bomb Disposal narrowly escaped being blown up today when he encountered a new type of anti-personnel bomb. The Bomb Disposal Section was called out to deal with a number of unexploded German 2kg ‘butterfly’ bombs which have become all too familiar across the Island since June. The Sapper was following normal procedure to check whether or not the bomb was armed when he noted the fuze number which was 67, instead of the normal 41. Instead of going ahead and dealing with the bomb, he withdrew and reported the different fuze number to his Sergeant.

The action would save his life and those of his squad. The Type 67 is a delayed-action fuze: it can be set to blow the bomb at any time from five to thirty minutes after it falls. The bomb can kill up to 25 metres away and injure anyone within 150 metres. Although in this case the maximum time had passed, like any clockwork mechanism, if this one had merely jammed any movement could restart the clock – and then there is no way of knowing how long it has left to run.

From now on, butterfly bombs can no longer be considered relatively harmless if left undisturbed. Any number of them might explode at random, triggering others within range. The public has been told about the new hazard and warned to stay well clear of any suspect objects. With at least thirty reports of unexploded butterfly bombs today alone across civilian and military areas, the RE Bomb Disposal Section is now facing the more complex job of clearing hundreds of potential time bombs.

Adapted from UXB Malta, S A M Hudson, History Press 2010/2012

AXIS CONVOY CANNOT ESCAPE MALTA-BASED ATTACKS

The convoy intended for attack by Swordfish and Albacore aircraft last night was again located and photographed this morning by a reconnaissance Spitfire from Malta, 35 miles north west of Lampedusa.

Despite very bad weather, two Swordfish and two Albacores were despatched tonight to attempt another attack. At 2210 hours they located two merchant vessels and five destroyers which had now reached 53 miles south of Lampedusa. One Swordfish dropped flares allowing the others to launch three torpedoes. At least one scored a hit on a merchant vessel, producing a flash and a thick cloud of smoke which obscured the results of the other three missiles.

An hour later four Wellingtons found two merchant vessels and three destroyers some 50 miles south of Lampion and attacked with bombs and torpedoes. At least one 1000 lb bomb scored a hit on a merchantman. Then at 0328 hours two Swordfish and two Albacores located the tanker and three destroyers, 80 miles north west of Tripoli. Of two torpedoes fired at the convoy, one was seen to hit the tanker, producing a large green flash.

During the night three more sorties were made by Wellingtons, one dropping two 1000 lb bombs near the merchant ship which had been attacked by Swordfish hours before and was now stationary.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 19 OCTOBER TO DAWN 20 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Frequent showers throughout the day, heavy at times during the morning. Lightning very early.

0622-0730 hrs One Hurricane Hal Far on a search: nothing seen.

0623-0652 hrs Air raid alert for 15 plus ME 109 fighter bombers approaching the Island. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept: F/Sgt Scott damages one ME 109. The remaining fighter bombers cross the coast. Two ME 109s dive on Hal Far airfield and drop bombs damaging two Hurricane aircraft on the ground. The runway remains serviceable but 160 gallons of petrol are burned out in a pen. Ack Ack fire: no claims.

0726-0807 hrs Air raid alert for 25 enemy fighters which cross the coast on a high sweep. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds: no claims. Eight Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept and see six ME 109s to the south of the Island: the enemy evade combat and flee back to base.

0825-1010 hrs One Hurricane Hal Far searches for a missing pilot, five miles east of Zonqor, north of Grand Harbour and over St Paul’s Bay 20 miles: nothing seen.

0957-1018 hrs Air raid alert. 40 plus Italian fighters and ME 109 fighter bombers are reported heading for Malta. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron and seven 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept. P/O Walton probably destroys one Re 2001. Eight Spitfires are also scrambled from Hal Far but do not engage. The raiders cross the coast and drop bombs on the Gharghur area and on Salina Bay between the Salt Pans and Salina Battery. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1031-1044 hrs Air raid alert. Three enemy fighters cross the coast at great height, apparently on reconnaissance. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1200-1217 hrs Air raid alert for 30 plus enemy fighters including fighter bombers. Seven Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept and attempt to engage four ME 109 fighter bombers: no claims. Fighter bombers cross the coast and drop bombs on Ta Qali.

1322-1342 hrs Air raid alert for 20 enemy fighters including fighter bombers which come in and drop bombs on Attard. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds. Eight Spitfires Hal Far are airborne and engage the raiders: Capt Kuhlmann and Sgt Gunstone each damage one ME 109. One Spitfire is damaged in combat and crash-lands: pilot unhurt.

1457-1527 hrs Air raid alert for 40 enemy fighters including several fighter bombers heading for the Island. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa, plus four of 229 Squadron and seven of 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept but the enemy turn away into cloud cover and evade engagement. Several raiders cross the coast and drop bombs on Mosta.

1653-1742 hrs Air raid alert for 40 enemy fighters including ME 109 fighter bombers which drop bombs on the Luqa area and near Mqabba. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims. Eight Spitfires Hal Far plus four Spitfires 229 Squadron and three of 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept: the enemy is sighted on several occasions but make use of clouds to evade engagement.

1759-1852 hrs Air raid alert for an attempted dusk raid by 40 enemy bombers and fighter-bombers which approach the Island in two formations. Two Beaufighters 89 Squadron Luqa with three Spitfires are scrambled to intercept. One formation is engaged 25 miles west of the Island by three Malta aircraft which force the bombers to jettison their bombs in the sea. The same three fighters then intercept the other formation to the east of the Island forcing several to jettison bombs. Only three bombers cross the coast: one JU 88 is pursued by F/Lt Pring of 89 Squadron and destroyed. Bombs are dropped on Luqa and Hal Far aerodromes; delayed action bombs high explosive bombs land near Bir Miftuh Church. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

2115 hrs There is an unconfirmed RDF report of a vessel 063 degrees 13 miles from Fort St Elmo, moving 30 at knots from west to east.

0225-0235 hrs Air raid alert. One enemy aircraft approaches to within 20 miles north of the Island and drops flares and bombs in the sea.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Hythe swept in P 35 and P 247.

Coast at Madliena

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Beauforts, one Hudson from Gibraltar. Departures One Hudson, one Liberator to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire damaged by enemy action crash-landed: pilot uninjured.

LUQA 2114-0134 hrs Four Wellingtons 69 Squadron airborne to attack an enemy southbound convoy: one hit with a 1000 lb claimed. 0105-1513 hrs Five Wellingtons 69 Squadron airborne to attack the same convoy: no hits observed. One Spitfire and two Baltimors 69 Squadron despatched during the day on reconnaissance.

10^th Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT D Company take over guard duties of Qawra Point and Madliena.

20 October 1942: Maltese ‘Spirit of Resistance’ Recognised

From: Governor (Gen Viscount Gort) To: Secretary of State for the Colonies

During the month ended 20^th October, total of 134 alerts, 90 by day, 44 by night. 61 bombing raids, 38 by day, 23 by night. 64 people were killed (28 men, 18 women, 18 children), 63 were seriously injured (19 men, 25 women, 19 children). 128 houses were seriously damaged including (repeat including) 48 in Gozo.

Recent recrudescence of enemy air attacks has if anything tended to raise morale by taking people’s minds off continued privations in the shape of shortage of food and other commodities. From the outset of the new phase of attacks, it has been clear that the spirit of resistance has not fallen during the lull of the previous few months.

NEWS CORRESPONDENT PRAISES ISLANDERS’ RESILIENCE

A news correspondent in Malta said today that the Islanders are becoming used to the almost continuous roar of planes and detonations of anti-aircraft guns. “The people come out into the streets at night, watch the search lights pick out planes, and urge anti-aircraft gunners to quicken their rate of fire.”

An advertisement appeared in The Times of Malta today inviting applications for vacancies on the staff of a school on the Island – one for classics and the other for mathematics and science.

MALTA TROOPS PRACTISE SEABORNE LANDINGS

The General Officer Commanding Troops in Malta attended an exercise today held by 2^nd Bn Devonshire Regiment. The Battalion were demonstrating the results of recent training, particularly practice landings from motor launches. The GOC also watched an exercise by 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regiment practising assault course techniques.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 20 OCTOBER TO DAWN 21 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Frequent showers throughout the day. Thunder and lightning very late evening.

0640-0711 hrs Air raid alert for 30 enemy aircraft including fighters and fighter bombers approaching the Island. Six Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept but sight nothing. Eight Spitfires Hal Far are airborne on patrol at 21000 feet east of the Island but do not locate the enemy. The raiders take advantage of 100 per cent cloud cover at 7-8000 feet to cross the coast and drop four bombs on Ta Qali aerodrome. The airfield’s anti-aircraft gunners open fire, damaging one ME 109.

Wardija

0700 hrs Two ME 109s machine-gun St Paul’s Bay. Wardia Observation Post reports seeing a ME 109 attack and machine-gun a Gozo boat.

0910-0950 hrs One Spitfire 249 Squadron is airborne to act as escort to a submarine: no enemy aircraft sighted.

1106-1150 hrs Air raid alert for 25 enemy fighters which approach the Island in small groups, taking advantage of cloud cover. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept: no engagement. ME 109 fighter bombers drop four bombs on the Safi end of Luqa runway, causing craters, and near St Nicola Church. One Spitfire 1435 Squadron is damaged in combat: pilot unhurt.

1415-1426 hrs Air raid alert as a small number of raiders approach to within 18 miles of the Island and then recede. Four Spitfires Hal Far are airborne on patrol to the west of the Island and Grand Harbour as cover to incoming aircraft: no engagement.

1700-1805 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled on intercept patrol: no sightings.

Military casualties Gunner Paul Busuttil, 2nd Heavy Ack Ack Regiment, Royal Malta Artillery; Private Vincent Casha, Malta Pioneer Group, Malta Territorial Force.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 20 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P 42 swept in by Speedy, having been met and escorted by two Motor Launches. P 42 claimed hits on two merchant vessels in convoy: her batteries were damaged by an accurate depth charge attack.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two BEauforts, one Liberator, one Hudson from Gibraltar. Departures one Hudson to Gibraltar; one Beaufort to Shallufa; two Beauforts to LG 224.

LUQA One Spitfire 69 Squadron despatched on a search near Lampedusa for enemy shipping attacked last night. One Baltimore 69 Squadron sent on photographic reconnaissance Cotrone Harbour.

21 October 1942: Malta Blitz Fails To Stop Sinking of Axis Supplies

Submarines of the Malta flotilla has sunk three enemy merchant vessels in recent days and damaged several others. The submarine successes follow a week in which the Island’s air forces have launched eleven attacks on enemy convoys attempting to supply Axis troops in North Africa.

It is clear that despite his renewed heavy bombardment of the Island Kesselring has failed to stop its forces interrupting enemy supply lines. Combined attacks from Allied aircraft and submarines based on both sides of the Mediterranean have halted fuel tankers, caused merchant ships to turn back and sent tons of supplies crucial to Rommel’s war effort to the bottom of the sea.

Ack Ack at Work

ARTILLERY ORDERED: HOLD FIRE TO SAVE AMMO

Gun positions are still restricted to 15 rounds per gun despite the recent increased enemy activity. Artillery commanders have ordered every gun position to reserve fire for good targets. At the same time they urge positions which get a good target to ‘engage it hotly’.

QUESTIONS IN PARLIAMENT

Mr William Thorne (MP for West Ham Plaistow) today asked the Secretary of State for Air in the House of Commons how many times Malta had been raided; how many people have been killed, the amount of property damaged and the number of aeroplanes brought down since the declaration of war. Sir Archibald Sinclair replied: “Up to 19th October there have been 1,660 bombing attacks on Malta, and 1,069 enemy aircraft have been destroyed. I understand that, up to 20th September, 1,386 civilians had been killed and 6,704 buildings destroyed or damaged.”

Commander Sir Archibald Southby, MP for Epsom then asked whether in view of what he had said he does not think it necessary in the interests of the people of Malta, to hit Italy from the air. The Secretary of State answered: “We have been hitting Italy from the air, and we shall go on hitting Italy.”

AIR RAIDS DAWN 21 OCTOBER TO DAWN 22 OCTOBER 1942

Weather A showery day: thunderstorm and heavy shower early.

0703-0735 hrs Air raid alert as 15 ME 109s including fighter bombers approach the Island. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept: P/O Walton damages one ME 109. The remaining raiders use cloud cover to drop bombs on the Safi strip and Gudja. One high explosive lands in Tal Liebru and four on Xlejli. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

0847-0915 hrs Air raid alert for 30 German and Italian fighters including seven ME 109 fighter bombers heading for Malta. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept but are unable to engage. The raiders cross the coast and drop bombs near Siggiewi and on the Safi runway, damaging one aircraft on the ground and one motor transport vehicle. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

0930-1030 hrs Air raid alert as 25 German and Italian raiders including fighter bombers approach the Island. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron are scrambled to join the eight of 126 Squadron still airborne from the previous raid. P/O Walton destroys one Macchi 202. Bombs are dropped on Luqa and Ta Kandia. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

18 pounder gun

1126 hrs Air raid alert as 15 enemy aircraft including Re 2001s and ME 109s approach the Island. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: no claims. The raiders launch a dive-bombing attack on Qawra Tower post which returns fire. Bombs land on the searchlight position and the 18 pounder gun position.

1254-1354 hrs Air raid alert for 40 plus enemy raiders approaching the Island under cloud cover. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: no claims. Bombs are dropped from a great height on Ta Qali.

1530-1605 hrs Air raid alert: 25 enemy fighters including fighter bombers drop bombs 10-15 miles north of Gozo. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept but see no raiders: none cross the coast.

0435-0515 Air raid alert. Four enemy aircraft approach and recede within five miles of Grand Harbour, dropping all bombs in the sea. One Beaufighter 89 Squadron is airborne and damages one HE 111 north of the Island.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 21 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Hythe swept P 247 and P 35 to sea, and escorted P 37 and P 211: the latter reported having sunk one southbound ship east of Pantelleria and P 37 two hits on a southbound merchant vessel.

AIR HQ Arrivals One DC3 from LG 224; two Wellingtons from Shallufa; one Beaufort from Gibraltar. Departures One Liberator, one Hudson to Gibraltar; two Beauforts to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Wellington overshot runway on landing; undercarriage collapsed: crew uninjured.

LUQA One Beaufighter 69 Squadron despatched on shipping search near Greek Islands and photographed shipping in Corfu harbour. One Spitfire 69 Squadron despatched and photographed Navarino and Tripoli.

TA QALI 229 and 249 Squadrons stood down.

1^st Bn HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT During period 15-21 October the Battalion has found two impressed lorries, one motorcycle and five other ranks for work on Hal Far aerodrome. During the hours of daylight two twin Lewis guns have been manned for anti-aircraft defence of the Safi strip.

22 October 1942: Luftwaffe Crew Captured After 3 Days Adrift

RAF Air Sea Rescue Launch

The pilot and crew of a JU 88 bomber were rescued today after three days adrift in a dinghy off the coast of Malta. The bomber was taking part in a dusk air raid on Monday evening when it was shot down by Flight Lieutenant Pring of 89 Squadron and ditched in the sea. The crew managed to bail out and get into their dinghy.

Two hours later an enemy search and rescue vessel was spotted searching for the crew but did not find them. The dinghy was left drifting helplessly until it was spotted today and the RAF Rescue Launch set out in pursuit. All four crew members survived and were taken prisoner. They have been named as pilot Oberleutnant Ernst Neuffer, age 27, wireless operator Unteroffizier Fritz Hinterberg (21) and crew members Unteroffizier Hans Ehrentraut (28) and 24 year old Unteroffizier Joseph Stern.

TROOPS BACK TO FULL STRENGTH ON AIRFIELDS

The number of Army personnel has returned to its former high levels following the recent air raids. 1000 men are now working daily on the aerodromes, repairing pens and filling craters to keep runways open following air attacks. So far during the recent blitz none of the airfields has been unserviceable for more than a few minutes.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 22 OCTOBER TO DAWN 23 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Fair to fine.

0714-0748 hrs Air raid alert for 15 enemy fighters including ME 109 fighter bombers heading for Malta. Eight Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled to intercept but encounter no enemy aircraft. The raiders cross the coast at great height taking advantage of cloud cover and drop bombs on Hamrun and Birkirkara, damaging property and causing civilian casualties. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

0935-1039 hrs Air raid alert for 30 ME 109s and Macchi 202s including fighter bombers approaching Malta. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept: F/Lt McLeod destroys one Macchi 202. Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron are also scrambled to intercept: F/Lt McElroy and P/O Lowrey destroy one ME 109; P/O Sanderson destroys one Macchi 202; S/Ldr Woods probably destroys one ME 109 and damages one; Sgt Stead damages one ME 109 and one Macchi 202. The remaining raiders drop bombs on the Ta Qali and Mosta areas.

1120-1220 hrs Air raid alert for 25 enemy fighters and fighter bombers approaching the Island. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept: no claims. The raiders cross the coast and drop bombs on Luqa, Ta Qali and Hal Far. Heavy Ack Ack fire and also Light Ack Ack who destroy one ME 109.

1343-1401 hrs Air raid alert for a formation of enemy fighters approaching the Island. Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept but see nothing. The enemy is believed to have turned back.

1512-1619 hrs Air raid alert for 60 German and Italian fighters escorting fighter bombers towards the Island. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: Sgt Brown and P/O Walton each damage two Macchi 202s. Eight Spitfires are also scrambled from Hal Far but are unable to gain sufficient height to engage. Many fighter bombers jettison their bombs in the sea. Seven Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are also airborne but see nothing. About half of the raiders cross the coast in cloud cover: fighter bombers drop bombs near Luqa and Kirkop. Heavy Ack Ack engage: no claims.

Military casualties William Osborne, Foreman of Stokers, HM Dockyard.

Civilian casualties Hamrun Carmel Calleja, age 37; Mary Calleja, age 11; Anthony Debono, age 54; Carmela Debono, age 42; Alfred Fenech, age 73; Alfred Muscat, age 4; Jennie Scerri, age 17; Filippa Whiddatt, age 12. St Julian’s Carmela Sciberras, age 56.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 22 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Speedy swept P 44 in from patrol.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Beaufighter from Gibraltar. Departures One DC3 to LG 224; one Wellington to Shallufa.

LUQA One Baltimore 69 Squadron despatched on shipping search along the Greek coast. One Spitfire 69 Squadron despatched on photo-reconnaissance of Taranto and Brindisi. Three special Wellingtons 69 Squadron, one carrying bombs and two carrying torpedoes, despatched to attack an enemy tanker sighted by a photo-reconnaissance Spitfire. All aircraft returned owing to severe electrical storms which make it impossible to locate or attack the convoy.

23 October 1942: Battle For El Alamein Has Begun

Night offensive begins at El Alamein (c) IWM E18467

At 9.40 this evening a four hour Allied ground and air bombardment began targeting Rommel’s forces at El Alamein. As the shelling subsided, ground troops and armoured divisions began their advance across Axis minefields. The offensive follows weeks of attacks on enemy supply convoys, designed to weaken Axis troops and reduce their firepower.

LUFTWAFFE BOMBERS STAYING AWAY

Observers report that no JU 88 bombers or other twin-engined aircraft have approached Malta since Monday. Enemy air raids are now confined to ‘tip and run’ attacks by heavily escorted fighter bombers. However, the poor weather since Monday has worked to the raiders’ advantage, giving the agile ‘Jabos’ the advantage of cloud from which to launch attacks and escape.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 23 OCTOBER TO DAWN 24 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Showers.

0630-0736 hrs Air raid alert as 35 enemy aircraft including ME 109 fighter bombers approach the Island in four quick raids. Eight Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled to intercept: Sgt Saunders destroys one ME 109, F/Lt Charney damages another. F/O Lindsay’s Spitfire is shot down and he is killed. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron Luqa are also scrambled to intercept: no claims. Bombs are dropped near St Paul’s Bay, and on Mosta and Imtarfa. Light Ack Ack guns destroy one ME 109.

0830-0910 hrs Air raid alert for 30 fighters and fighter bombers which fly round the east of the island. Four Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: Sgt Marshall damages one ME 109. The raiders then recede.

1010-1038 hrs Air raid alert. 30 enemy fighters including fighter bombers approach the Island. Three ME 109 fighter bombers drop high explosive bombs on the south east side of the runway at Ta Qali, and on Mosta, damaging property and wounding one civilian. Eight fighter bombers drop bombs near Zurrieq village and on St Nicola and Kirkop areas. Malta fighters are airborne and engage, damaging two ME 109s. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1240-1301 hrs Air raid alert. 15 enemy fighters approach the Island at great height. While fighters strafe the airfield with machine guns, three ME 109 fighter bombers dive down and drop six high explosive bombs on the Ta Qali dispersal area. Malta fighters are airborne; no engagements. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1559-1622 hrs Air raid alert for 30 enemy aircraft approach Malta. Eight Spitfires 1435 Squadron and four 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: no claims. The raiders do not cross the coast.

2210-2300 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron is airborne to intercept reported enemy raiders which turn back 35 miles from Malta: no sighting.

Military casualties Flight-Lieutenant Alec Lindsay, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 185 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Birkirkara Michael Sultana, age 73; Carmelina Grech, age 9.

Enemy casualties Unteroffizier Heribert Wagner, pilot of a Messerschmitt BF 109 fighter, shot down and killed.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 23 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Una returned from patrol and was swept in by Hythe.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Hudsons, two Liberators from Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed on land while in combat: pilot killed.

LUQA One Spitfire 69 Squadron despatched on photo-reconnaissance of Taranto and Brindisi. One Spitfire 69 Squadron sent to search for enemy shipping along the west coast of Greece.

24 October 1942: Rations To Be Cut Again

MILITARY SITUATION REPORT FOR WEEK ENDING 24 OCTOBER 1942

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: C in C Middle East Rptd: The War Office

1. Enemy now forced to use fighters or fighter bombers only. RAF have maintained superiority over Island and little damage done. Air and submarine offensive against enemy convoys maintained.

Raider over Grand Harbour

2. During daylight. 37 alerts. Dusk 19 October 40 bombers approached intercepted by six Spitfires. Three crossed coast rest jettisoned bombs in the sea. Two JU 88s destroyed. Remaining alerts each few fighter bombers heavily escorted. Total 500 Spitfire sorties against 1245 enemy sorties. Nine fighters destroyed, four probably destroyed, sixteen damaged by RAF. Four ME 109s destroyed by Lt Ack Ack, two damaged by small arms. Only three Spitfires destroyed, four damaged.

3. By night. Eight alerts. 18 aircraft approach, 13 crossed coast. Bombs scattered localities. Beaufighters damaged one JU 88, one HE 111.

4. Offensive. Total five Swordfish, five Albacore, eight Wellington sorties against enemy convoys. Result one Tanker, two merchant vessels hit by torpedoes, one merchant vessel hit by 1000 lb bomb. Other results unobserved due to bad weather. Submarines have also been very successful recently.

5. Admin. Further economies in motor transport fuel have cut out all mobile training. Army now existing on less than 4000 gallons petrol per week. Rations being slightly further reduced on 1^st November but calorific value unchanged. Winter accommodation suffering from lack of petrol and materials.

6. Military damage negligible; casualties five Other Ranks wounded.

7. Many unexploded bombs disposed of including 200 anti-personnel and large number of German 1 kg incendiaries. New type delayed action Butterfly anti-personnel bomb fuze 67 already reported separately.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 24 OCTOBER TO DAWN 25 OCTOBER 1942

Weather Mainly fine.

0635-0740 hrs Air raid alert. 40 enemy aircraft approach the Island in a series of fighter bomber raids. The bombers dive to attack Ta Qali and Luqa aerodromes, damaging one aircraft on the ground and injuring three airmen. Malta fighters are airborne: no engagements. One ME 109 is destroyed by Light Anti Aircraft fire.

1011-1038 hrs Air raid alert for 20 enemy fighters and fighter bombers approaching at great height. Four Spitfires from Hal Far and eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept: no claims. The raiders cross the coast at height and drop bombs between Luqa and Grand Harbour, on the Mqabba area and the Safi strip, and on Zurrieq. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1300-1348 hrs Air raid alert for 15 enemy fighters including a few fighter bombers. Eight Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled to intercept: Black Section are jumped by enemy fighters and one Spitfire is shot down: Sgt Saunders is killed. The fighter bombers drop bombs on the Ta Qali area. Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

1521 hrs Air raid alert. 40 ME 109s and Macchi 202s including a few fighter bombers are intercepted by Malta fighters well to the north of the Island. Bombs are dropped on the Luqa area, damaging one aircraft on the ground. One ME 109 and one Macchi 202 are destroyed by fighters and one ME 109 probably destroyed. One Spitfire is damaged in combat and crash-lands: pilot uninjured.

1615 hrs Enemy fighter bombers attack the RAF Station at Burmarrad. Three bombs land nearby: one on soft ground fails to explode. Another bomb lands near the motor transport drivers’ billet of 2^nd Bn King’s Own Malta Regiment, destroying the ablution facility. Bombs also explode near their defence posts causing slight shock to ten men manning the posts.

1629 hrs All clear.

2109-2154 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron Luqa is airborne on patrol: no sightings.

Military casualties Private Philip Kanter, Royal Army Medical Corps, No 90 General Hospital; Sergeant Raymond Saunders, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 185 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 24 OCTOBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P 247 returned and was swept in by Speedy.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two DC3 from LG 224; two Beauforts from Gibraltar. Departures Two Hudsons, two Liberators to Gibraltar; two Beauforts, one DC3 to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire shot down by enemy fighters: pilot killed. One Spitfire damaged by enemy action: pilot injured.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 54. Dealt with: High Explosives 13 including 3 with unmarked delayed-action fuzes (4 x 250kg, 10 x 50kg); 1 Italian anti-personnel bomb container; 357 anti-personnel bombs; 5 oil incendiaries.

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Posted by maltagc70 on October 24, 2022 in 1942, October 1942

Tags: 126 Squadron, 1435 Squadron, 185 Squadron, 229 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 69 Squadron, bomb disposal, butterfly bomb, cluster bombs, El Alamein, Kings Own Malta Regiment, Luftwaffe, Malta, Royal Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Engineers, Royal Navy, submarine flotilla, war diary, World War Two

20-26 September 1942: Malta Forces Subdue Luftwaffe and Rommel

26 Sep

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20 September 1942: George Cross Presented to People of Gozo

Citadel, Victoria, Gozo

A ceremony was held today in Victoria to formally present the George Cross to the People of Gozo. The counterpart to last Sunday’s Valletta presentation ceremony was held at It Tokk. All the sister Island’s leading dignitaries were present including Monsignor Gonzi and Mr George Ransley, the Commissioner for Gozo.

MALTA’S MAIN CONCERN STILL LACK OF SUPPLIES

From: Governor (General Viscount Gort) To: Secretary of State for the Colonies

1. During the month ended 20^th September there were 59 alerts; 38 by day and 21 by night. 9 bombing raids; nil by day, 9 by night. 9 people were killed (4 men, 1 woman, 4 children); 11 were seriously injured (4 men, 3 women, 4 children). 15 houses were seriously damaged.

2. The principal concern of the Government remains the control and the even distribution of commodities, both local and imported. Apart from this, the main events of the period were the departure of Sir Edward Jackson and Locker and the arrival of Campbell as Acting Lieutenant-Governor.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 20 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 21 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility good.

No air raids.

1100-1230 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1702-1811 hrs Ten Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far on patrol over the Island: nothing seen.

1715-1835 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

Military casualties Captain James Golding, Royal Army Pay Corps.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Surface plots were reported 15 miles off Grand Harbour, but faded by 0200 without having been confirmed.

AIR HQ Twelve Spitfires carried out offensive recce over Sicily: no enemy aircraft sighted. One Beaufighter on intruder patrol over Sicily attacked a ship 300 yards offshore near Licata. Arrivals One Hudson from Gibraltar. Departures One DC 3 to LG 224.

HAL FAR Five Spitfires 249 Squadron arrived as Ta Qali was under repair.

21 September 1942: Malta RAF is Helping Win the War, Says Air Marshal

The Air Officer Commanding, Malta has received the following letter from Marshal of the Royal Air Force Lord Trenhard:

“I am writing you a line to say that I had hoped to have come and visit you on my way to the Middle East. I shall fly very near you but not come down as I am told every aeroplane is of value to take you supplies, and not to use your petrol. Under the circumstances you will realise that I must agree to this but I am sorry from my own point of view.

B flight 249 Squadron July 42 (1)

I would like to congratulate you most heartily on what you are doing in Malta. It is magnificent. The Air Forces are great. It is wonderful what they have done. They have saved the situation everywhere and are pressing on with their work which will anyhow eventually be the great instrument for winning this war.

I do congratulate you also on the wonderful spirit that exists in Malta both in the Army and in the Air Force. I am told, and believe it thoroughtly, that all work as one and I congratulate you and your staff, all the pilots, the maintenance crews and everyone.”

AIR RAIDS DAWN 21 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 22 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility good.

1108-1136 hrs Air raid alert. Twelve enemy aircraft approach and observers detect and report a possible bombing raid. Five Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled from Hal Far to intercept but do not engage. The attack develops into a small fighter sweep with few aircraft crossing the coast. Malta’s fighters are airborne: no engagements.

1405-1505 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are airborne on intercept patrol: nothing sighted.

1830-1930 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron carry out anti E boat patrol of the Sicilian coast: nothing sighted.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 21 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY With a view to eliminate the sharp turn in QBB 273 off Zonkor Point, and provide a transit line into Grand Harbour, Speedy, Hebe and Hythe carried out a clearance sweep of the small area of unswept water near Position 2, and also a strip four cables inshore of the inshore edge of the new leg of the proposed new channel. One anti sweeping device was cut and sunk by rifle fire.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Wellington from LG 224; two Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar.

HAL FAR 1700-1821 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron carried out offensive reconnaissance over south east Sicily: no enemy activity.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT HQ Company fired machine-guns at Pembroke Range. Battalion swimming competition vs 1^st Bn Kings Own Malta Regiment. Bn won the swimming events but 1^st Bn KOMR beat us at water polo.

22 September 1942: George Cross Starts Tour of Malta

GC ARRIVES IN DINGLI

George Cross Display

The George Cross medal awarded to Malta was today taken to the village of Dingli, carried by the Inspector of Police with a small police guard. Twelve buglers of the 1^st Bn Durham Light Infantry played as the George Cross was carried in procession from the outskirts of the village to the church and placed on a plinth so that villagers could view it. At the end of the ceremony, the Army buglers heralded the medal’s departure.

To recognise the endurance of the people of Malta, the George Cross will continue its tour to all parts of the Island, including Cottonera, Luqa, Marsa, Mellieha, Mgarr, Mosta, Mqabba, Empire Stadium, Paola, Qrendi, Siggiewi, Sliema, Rabat, Zabbar, Zebbug, Zurrieq, Safi, Senglea, Zejtun and Gharghur.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 22 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 23 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

0845-0910 hrs Air raid alert. Two ME 109s, believed to be on weather reconnaissance, approach to within six miles of the coast at 30,000 feet. Malta’s fighters are airborne; no engagements.

1015-1130 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far patrol over the Island: nothing seen.

1215-1245 hrs Air raid alert. 18 enemy fighters approach the Gozo to St Paul’s Bay area at 25000 feet. Nine Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled to intercept patrol: no engagement.

1835-1935 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on anti E boat patrol: nothing sighted.

2300-0310 hrs One Swordfish from Hal Far carries out two anti E boat patrols: nothing sighted.

2305 hrs Beach Company, 3^rd Bn Kings Own Malta Regt is warned to look out for a Beaufighter which might force-land into the sea.

2351-0039 hrs Five enemy aircraft approach, three of which cross the coast. Two are definitely identified as JU 87s. They drop 250kg bombs on Qrendi and on Delimara Heavy Ack Ack position, where there is one slight casualty. Other bombs are dropped in the sea south of Ta Silch and north of St Paul’s Bay. Searchlights illuminate one aircraft and Heavy Ack Ack fire: no claims.

0023 hrs A hostile shipping plot is reported ten miles off Grand Harbour. Beach Companies Kings Own Malta Regiment are warned and Coastal Defences are ordered to open fire if necessary.

Military casualties Flight Sergeant James Burrett, Royal Australian Air Force;Sergeant William Doodson, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR);Flying Officer Aubrey Izzard, Royal Canadian Air Force; Flying Officer Ralph Jones, RAF VR; all 39 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 1942

HMS Proteus

ROYAL NAVY The new channel QBB 288 was declared open. Speedy swept Proteus into harbour. Swona swept to Marsaxlokk and back. 3rd ML Flotilla swept area to NE commenced on 15th and 16th but had to abandon the operation after 4 hours owing to the weather. 6 moored mines were cut. Swona carried out SA and LL sweep of Marsaxlokk and approaches and also of QBB 273. Hythe swept P 35 to sea and P 46 in from patrol. She reported having sunk a schooner and two merchant vessels.

AIR HQ Spitfires carried out offensive recces over Sicily: no enemy sighted. Nine Beauforts and seven Beaufighters despatched to attack enemy convoy of one tanker escorted by three destroyers. One, possibly two hits on tanker. One Beaufort missing, one Beaufighter damaged.

Arrivals Two Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures Two Hudsons to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Beaufort damaged by accompanying Beaufighter and crashed into the sea: crew missing. One Beaufighter crashed into Beaufort while on operations: crew uninjured. One Beaufighter damaged by enemy action crashed while attempting to land: crew slightly injured.

HAL FAR 1505-1610 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron patrol south east Sicily: nothing seen.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT C Company started their three day march. Left billets at 0800 hrs, arrived at Mellieha Bay about 1215 hrs – distance about 13 miles.

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY All Companies in the Battalion except C Coy began classification firing at Ghain Tuffieha.

23 September 1942: RAF Aircraft in Fatal Mid-Air Collision

The crew of a Malta based Beaufort were killed last night when their aircraft was in collision with a Beaufighter during an attack on an enemy convoy. The Beaufort of 39 Squadron was one of nine sent with seven Beaufighters of 227 Squadron to target a 6000 ton tanker with three destroyers as escort, ten miles west of Antipaxos. They reached their target as daylight was failing.

Beaufort 39 Squadron before take-off at Luqa

Two Beaufighters raked the leading destroyers with cannon fire, causing a small explosion on one, and succeeding in their objective of drawing the flak away from the torpedo-carrying Beauforts which attacked the tanker from port and starboard. Eight torpedoes were released, scoring one definite hit and one possible hit on the tanker and causing an explosion. Black smoke would be seen two miles away. The other Beaufighters drove off three JU 88s accompanying the convoy.

During the mission one Beaufort collided with a Beaufighter and crashed into the sea. The Beaufort crew are reported missing, presumed dead. They have been named as Flight Sergeant James Burrett, Sergeant William Doodson, Flying Officer Aubrey Izzard and Flying Officer Ralph Jones; all 39 Squadron.

The Beaufighter remained airborne but late last night Malta’s coastal defences were warned to keep a look out for the damaged aircraft which might force-land into the sea. The Beaufighter made it back to base but crashed while attempting to land, causing slight injuries to the crew.

Later in the night six Wellingtons of 69 Squadron found the convoy again, this time 33 miles south west of Antipaxos. The destroyers attempted to lay a smoke screen, but this was blown away by the wind. The Wellingtons dropped twenty 500lb bombs dropped, some of which fell within 15 yards of the port side of the tanker. According to reconnaissance photographs taken at first light the tanker has been forced to take refuge in Patras Harbour.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 23 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 24 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

AM Two Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are despatched on air sea rescue to 35 miles north of Grand Harbour but find nothing.

0958-1143 hrs Air raid alert. Five Spitfires 229 Squadron are scrambled to intercept patrol (two return early): no sightings. Four more patrol 30 miles north of the Island: no sightings.

1055-1135 hrs Air raid alert. Five Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept two enemy aircraft but develop radio trouble and return to base: nothing sighted.

1350-1409 hrs Air raid alert. Five Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled to intercept and climb to 20000 feet over Grand Harbour before flying at 14000 feet to within ten miles of the Sicilian coast: nothing seen.

1605-1710 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron on intercept patrol: nothing sighted.

0005-0030 hrs Air raid alert for three enemy bombers, none of which cross the coast. Bombs are dropped in the sea off Delimara. One is engaged by 4^th Bn Heavy Ack Ack Regt. The enemy raider shoots down the searchlight beams with his machine gun.

Military casualties Pilot Officer Ian Preston, Royal Canadian Air Force, 126 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 1942

AIR HQ 1845-2205 hrs Two Beaufighters are despatched on intruder patrol: one shoots up E boats and submarines moored at Trapani. The other shoots up a seaplane station.

Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar; two Beaufighters to Abu Sueir. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire believed damaged by enemy fighters: pilot missing.

HAL FAR 1740-1850 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron carried out a sweep of south east Sicily: enemy aircraft reported but not seen. 2300-0325 hrs One Swordfish RNAS carried out two anti E boat offensive patrols: nothing seen.

TA QALI Aerodrome was unserviceable while new drainage system was being installed across the centre of the landing ground. 229 Squadron detachment operated from Luqa.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT A Company fired on F Range Pembroke: results very good.

24 September 1942: Malta Bombers Praised for Strike Against Rommel

MESSAGE FROM AIR OFFICE COMMANDING READS

Beaufighter as flown by 227 Squadron

“Well done again 227 Squadron. Your successful bombing of a merchant vessel on September 17^th has deprived Rommel of yet another ship carrying important supplies.”

AIR RAIDS DAWN 24 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 25 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

0800-0835 hrs Air raid alert for seven ME 109s approaching the Island. Nine Spitfires 249 Squadron (one spare returned early) are scrambled to intercept. Blue Section sights four ME 109s but lose them in the sun. Red Section report no sightings. Only three enemy raiders cross the coast at 27000 feet. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds: no claims.

1025-1055 hrs Air raid alert as nine ME 109s approach the Island. Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept with no sightings. Six enemy raiders cross the coast at 23-270000 feet. Malta’s fighters are airborne and engage. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds.

1705-1720 hrs Air raid alert for six enemy fighters which cross the coast and carry out a fighter sweep from Gozo to Kalafrana. Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept: nothing sighted.

1900 hrs One Spitfire returning from Luqa is damaged on landing: pilot P/O Williams is uninjured.

Military casualties Major Douglas Armstrong, 57 Field Hygiene Section, Royal Army Medical Corps.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Proteus sailed for Gibraltar, being swept out by Hebe.

AIR HQ Two Beauforts of 39 Squadron made their first night torpedo attack on a convoy of three destroyers, one small unidentified naval vessel and a 5/6000 ton merchant vessel, which was coast crawling northwards, ten miles north of Point Stile. Two torpedoes were dropped but although they were seen to run well the results could not be observed, as the aircraft had to fly into the moon on leaving the target. One Hurricane and two Beaufighters carried out intruder patrols over Sicily. Arrivals Three Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar.

HAL FAR 0625-0755 hrs Ten Spitfires made a reconnaissance sweep over south east Sicily: no enemy activity.

TA QALI 1735-1900 hrs Nine Spitfires 229 Squadron and nine of 249 Squadron (one of each Squadron returned early) on Rodeo raids. P/O Beurling 249 Squadron sighted one unidentified enemy aircraft: no combat.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT A Company fired machine-guns on F range Pembroke. C Coy marched back from Mellieha, arrived at billets about 1330 hrs. B & D Coys held a night exercise.

25 September 1942: Luftwaffe Fighters Flee in Face of Spitfires

US AIR FORCE LIBERATORS ATTACK BENGHAZI – MALTA RECONNAISSANCE PILOTS REPORT SUCCESS

Port of Benghazi before attacks

Photographs taken of Benghazi by Malta reconnaissance pilots have revealed the success of a recent raid by US air force Liberators. A 7000 ton merchant vessel which had been unloading in the port has clearly been blown to pieces, together with most of the improvised jetty at which she was moored. The destruction of the jetty has reduced by half the wharfage available to the enemy for unloading large ships at Benghazi. Another 7000 ton ship was also reported to be damaged.

BEAT THE RETREAT

At dusk this evening, Castile Square echoed to the moving tradition of Beat the Retreat, by the band and drums of 2^nd Battalion Royal West Kent Regiment. The ceremony at 1800 hrs was performed before the General Officer Commanding, Malta and other dignitaries, plus many onlookers who gathered to enjoy the moment. A brief air raid alert at 1750 hrs threatened to disrupt proceedings but the yellow flag only was raised over the Castile and it was decided to continue with the parade.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 25 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 26 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine: visibility good – slight early morning haze.

1115-1145 hrs Air raid alert for twelve ME 109s approaching the Island. Ten Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept and encounter the raiders 35 miles north east of Grand Harbour. They destroy two ME 109s and damage one. One Spitfire is damaged in combat and crash-lands: the pilot is uninjured.

1750-1815 hrs Air raid alert. 17 ME 109s approach to within 10 miles of Gozo. Malta fighters see the enemy but are unable to engage as the raiders flee northwards to avoid conflict.

Night No alerts.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P 37 arrived from Gibraltar to join 10th S/M Flotilla and was swept into harbour by Hebe. P 34 sailed for the United Kingdom, and P 42 and Una on patrol, all being swept out by Hebe. Weather unsuitable for air operations.

AIR HQ Three Beaufighters despatched to attack a minesweeper in the area Kuriat to Sfax. Target not located. One Cant 506 B destroyed. Arrivals One DC3 from LG 224; two Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures Five Hudsons to Gibraltar; one DC 3 to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crash landed due to enemy action: pilot uninjured.

HAL FAR 185 Squadron released.

TA QALI 0645-0745 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on reconnaissance patrol sight barges loaded with sacks but do not attack. 1530-1630 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron on reconnaissance cross the Sicilian coast: no sightings.

26 September 1942: Malta Attacks Enemy Tanker, Merchantmen, Destroyers and Subs

MILITARY SITUATION REPORT WEEK ENDING 26 SEPTEMBER 1942

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: The War Office Rptd: C in C Middle East

1. Enemy air: Six alerts daylight for total 83 aircraft – high fighter sweeps: two ME 109s destroyed, one ME 109 damaged. Seven aircraft approached Bight, four crossed coast, bombs Qrendi and Delimara areas.

2. Own air: Day (A) Nine Beauforts, seven Beaufighters attacked tanker escorted by three destroyers. One, possibly two, hits on tanker. One Beaufort missing, one Beaufighter damaged. (B) Three Beaufighters despatched to attack minesweeper: target not located. One Cant 506B destroyed. (C) Over 100 Spitfire sorties offensive reconnaissance Sicily. One ME 109 destroyed, one probably destroyed, without loss.

Night (A) Six Wellingtons attacked tanker: stick of bombs within 15 yards. (B) Three Beauforts attacked 5/6000 ton merchant vessel escorted by three destroyers: results not seen. (C) Total five Beaufighters, one Hurricane, on intruder patrols Sicily: E boats and submarines Trapani and small ship off Licata machine-gunned.

3. General: Approximately 450 soldiers daily detailed to assist RAF.

4. Military casualties and damage: one officer wounded last April now died; one other rank slight casualty.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 26 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 27 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Weather fine; visibility good.

0910-1030 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept a report of approaching enemy aircraft. The raid does not materialise and no raiders are seen.

1040-1130 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1735-1835 hrs Ten Spitfires 229 Squadron are scrambled to intercept enemy aircraft (two return early with radio trouble). The raiders retreat before they are seen.

2005-2035 hrs Air raid alert for two enemy bombers approaching the Island; only one crosses the coast and is illuminated by searchlights for 3 ¾ minutes. All bombs are dropped in the sea.

Military casualties Gunner Joseph Pulis, 11th AA, Royal Malta Artillery.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Hebe swept Utmost in from patrol and then proceeded to Dockyard for retubing of boilers. P 211 sailed, being swept out by Hythe. A report of a fire in the Dockyard area turns out to be a crashed bomber (identified as friendly).

AIR HQ Spitfires carried out offensive recces over Sicily. One ME 109 destroyed, one probably destroyed. One Beaufighter on intruder patrol over Castel Vetrano: no sightings. Arrivals One Spitifre from LG 28. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed on landing: pilot uninjured. One Beaufighter engine failure: crew injured.

TA QALI 1345-1435 hrs Three Spitfires 229 Squadron on reconnaissance patrol cross the Sicilian coast over Comiso: no sightings.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 24. Dealt with: 6 High Explosives (2 x 500kg; 4 x 250kg;); 1 anti-personnel container; 18 anti-personnel bombs; 9 oil incendiaries.

(1) Canadian Air Aces and Heroes, WWI, WWII and Korea

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Posted by maltagc70 on September 26, 2022 in 1942, September 1942

Tags: 185 Squadron, 227 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 39 Squadron, Beaufighter, Beaufort, bomb disposal, Gozo, Hebe, Malta, P37, Proteus, Royal Engineers, war diary, World War Two

13-19 September 1942: Malta Celebrates the George Cross

19 Sep

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13 September 1942: George Cross Presentation to People of Malta

WATCH THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY 1942

The daylight skies of Malta are now considered safe enough for a major event to be held in the open air. After months of waiting, His Excellency the Governor and Commander in Chief Viscount Gort, VC made the formal presentation of the George Cross to the people of Malta in Palace Square this morning. The simple and dignified ceremony began with a guard of honour of the Royal Malta Artillery who marched down Kingsway and into the Square, accompanied by the band of the King’s Own Malta Regiment.

At 9.15 am, a wooden display case holding the Cross was carried out of the Palace by Police Commissioner Joseph Axisa and handed to Viscount Gort, who addressed the assembled company:

“On my appointment as Governor of Malta, I was entrusted to carry the George Cross to this Island fortress. By the command of the King, I now present to the People of Malta and her Dependencies the decoration which His Majesty has awarded to them in recognition of the gallant service which they have already rendered in the fight for freedom.

How you have withstood for many months the most concentrated bombing attacks in the history of the world is the admiration of all civilised peoples. Your homes and your historic buildings have been destroyed and only their ruins remain as monuments to the hate of a barbarous foe. The Axis Powers have tried again and again to break your spirit but your confidence in the final triumph of the United Nations remains undimmed.

Governor & C in C presents George Cross to Sir George Borg (c) IWM GM 1765

What Malta has withstood in the past, without flinching, Malta is determined to endure until the day when the second siege is raised. Battle-scarred George Cross Malta, the sentinel of Empire in the Meditteranean, meanwhile stands firm, undaunted and undismayed, awaiting the time when she can call ‘Pass friend, all is well in the Island Fortress.”

Finishing with a reading of the original citation, Viscount Gort formally presented the George Cross to His Honour Sir George Borg Kt, who received it on behalf of the people of Malta and its Dependencies. He then gave a brief address thanking His Majesty and the Governor for the recognition and appreciation of the people of Malta.

The ceremony was attended by the commanding officers of the Army, Navy and Air Forces in Malta, with special places reserved for the captains and officers of the valiant Santa Marija convoy. 1^st Coast Regiment, Royal Malta Artillery provided the Guard of Honour. Squeezed between piles of neatly piled debris from bomb damaged buildings, detachments from all three armed services lined the Square, alongside the Island’s Police, Special Constabulary and Passive Defence Organisations.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 13 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 14 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

0800-0840 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are airborne to intercept reported enemy raiders but they do not materialise. In the course of practice flying Sgt Swain goes into a spin from 3000 feet and crashes in a field near Luqa. He is killed and the aircraft destroyed.

0910-1025 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol sight two ME 109s but lose them in the cloud. Two Macchi 202s are then seen flying at great speed. No combats.

0156-0219 hrs Air raid alert. Three enemy bombers approach but only one crosses the coast, dropping bombs on the area of Ta Qali. Heavy Ack Ack engage. Malta’s night fighter is airborne: no engagement.

Military casualties Flight Sergeant Lawrence Swain, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 185 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 13 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P34 and P42 returned from patrol and were swept in the Hythe. P35 returned to harbour with engine defect.

AIR HQ 17 Spitfires carried out an offensive reconnaissance over Sicily. Enemy aircraft sighted but no combat. 0245-0440 hrs One Beaufighter on intruder patrol over Sicily. Arrivals Two Hudsons, one Beaufort from Gibraltar; two Wellingtons from LG 224. Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire stalled and crashed: pilot killed.

HAL FAR 1105-1210 hrs Five Spitfires were airborne on a sweep over South East Sicily: no enemy aircraft sighted.

TA QALI 0720-0830 hrs Seven Spitfires 229 Squadron (one returned early) on reconnaissance patrol over the Sicilian coast. They encountered heavy Ack Ack fire but ¼ mile behind aircraft. Enemy aircraft not sighted. 1845-1935 hrs One Spitfire 249 Squadron and one of 229 Squadron on shipping search: no sightings.

1^st Bn KING’S OWN MALTA REGIMENT The following letter of appreciation was received: “I am directed by the GOC to convey to you His Excellency’s congratulations on the smartness of the guard provided by the 1^st Bn King’s Own Malta Regiment. The GOC wishes to add his own congratulations and I am to request that you will make this known to the Commander, 1^st Bn The King’s Own Malta Regiment and the NCOs and men who formed the guard.”

14 September 1942: Mystery Loss of Flying Boat Clare

Short S30 flying boat ‘Clare’ (c) IWM CM6525

A Short S30 Flying Boat “Clare” which used to be a regular visitor to Malta has disappeared in mysterious circumstances off the coast of West Africa, near Bathurst, with the loss of all thirteen passengers and six crew. Questions are to be asked in the UK Parliament about the loss of the aircraft which is believed to have developed mechanical trouble and caught fire before ditching into the sea.

Crewed by members of 37 Squadron – a RAF unit well known at Luqa airfield – who were seconded to British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC), the flying boat was en route from Lagos to Poole, in England when she went down.

Clare made the first BOAC flight from Britain to Cairo, and Malta was a scheduled stop on the route. In February of this year while on the Island the flying boat survived an enemy bombing raid when she was damaged by incendiaries. In October 1941 she carried King George of Greece and Sir Stafford Cripps on a visit to Gibraltar.

Reflecting their connections with Malta, five of the casualties of 37 Squadron are to be commemorated on the Island’s memorial.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 14 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 15 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

0945-1040 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled on intercept patrol: no sightings.

1343-1416 hrs Six Spitfires are scrambled from Hal Far: nothing sighted.

1539-1610 hrs Air raid alert. Nine ME 109s cross the coast but refuse combat and turn back for home.

1750-1820 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to cover the return of a Rodeo mission: no enemy aircraft sighted.

2240 hrs 2^nd Bn Devonshire Regt report seeing lights 4-5 miles out to see, 120 degrees from D Company HQ.

0450-0506 hrs Air raid alert. Four enemy aircraft approach the Island and drop bombs in the sea 5-10 miles north of the Island. A Malta night fighter is airborne and chase on raider but are unable to engage.

Military casualties Radio Officer Edgar Brent, BOAC; First Officer Anthony Cundy, BOAC; Sergeant Eric Lace, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR), 37 Squadron, serving with BOAC; Flying Officer George Musson, Flying Officer, Royal Air Force (O), BOAC, Captain; Radio Officer J Wycherley, BOAC; all crew of the flying-boat Clare. Pilot Officer Albert Dixon, Royal New Zealand Air Force, 37 Squadron; Sergeant James Glansfield, Royal Air Force, 37 Squadron; Flight Sergeant William Kelly, RAF VR; Flight Lieutenant James Maguire, Royal Canadian Air Force, 37 Squadron; Wing Commander Ronald Graham, RAF VR, commanding 37 Squadron; Squadron Leader John Parker, RAF VR, 37 Squadron; Warrant Officer Alick Turley, Royal Air Force, 37 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 14 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Rye swept P35 out, and Una in from patrol. Una reported one hit on 4000 ton merchant vessel which probably sank.

AIR HQ Day A wing sweep of eight aircraft from 185 Squadron and eight of 249 Squadron led by W/Cdr Thompson carried out an extensive sweep of south east Sicily. Enemy aircraft were reported north of Gela but not sighted. 2350-0250 hrs One Beaufighter carried out an intruder patrol over Sicily.

Arrivals One DC3 from LG 224. Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar; one DC3, one Wellington to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Beaufighter ran off the runway during take-off: crew uninjured. One Spitfire tyre burst on take-off: pilot uninjured.

HAL FAR 0915-1020 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron carried out a sweep over Sicily. Enemy aircraft were reported over Gela but the leader of the Spitfire formation had radio trouble and did not receive the message, so no contact made. One Spitfire from Hal Far burst a tyre on taking off for wing sweep: the undercarriage collapsed and the airscrew was damaged; pilot unhurt.

TA QALI 0635-0725 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron (one returned early) on reconnaissance patrol over Sicilian coast: no sightings. 1700-1925 hrs Nine Spitfires 249 Squadron on Rodeo raid over Sicilian coast: no enemy aircraft sighted.

1^st Bn CHESHIRE REGIMENT All men working on Luqa returned this morning: no men required until next month.

15 September 1942: Admiralty in Negotiations with Italians

SAFE PASSAGE FOR HOSPITAL SHIP UNDER THREAT AFTER SINKING OF ARNO

Hospital ship Arno pre-war as HMAT Wandilla

Rome radio has today alleged that Italian Hospital Ship Arno was sunk last Wednesday night by aerial torpedoes fired by British aircraft. The incident took place about 40 miles east of Ras el Tin, Alexandria, with the loss of 27 lives. If confirmed, this is first recorded incident of Allied action against a hospital ship but not the first since the outbreak of war. A Greek hospital ship was sunk by Italian aircraft in April last year and a Russian vessel sunk by German bombers in November.

The sinking threatens to undermine delicate negotiations with the Italian high command for the safe passage of a ship to take sick and wounded from Malta’s hard-pressed hospitals to Allied territories where they can be more easily catered for.

From: Admiralty To: C in C Mediterranean Rptd: RA Malta; GHQ Middle East

SECRET

1. Your 1117/7 Italian Government replied in June that they would order Axis armed forces to refrain from attack upon the area where our hospital ship was anchored at Malta provided embarkation took place in daylight.

2. At same time they intimated that they would exercise their right under the 10^th Hague Convention to examine the ship on passage to Malta and that this would be facilitated if the ship called voluntarily at Syracuse. Nothing was said about the return voyage.

3. The difficulty remains that under article 12 of 10^th [Hague] Convention the Italians would have a perfect right to stop the ship on return voyage and move all sick and wounded as prisoners of war. We also dislike the idea of putting one of our ships in Italian hands though the ships of the Italian repatriation scheme may be sufficient security for her return.

4. Another possibility is to propose to the Italians that a neutral Red Cross Commission should examine the ship at port of departure, travel to Malta, supervise the embarkation and return with her. This proposal would be accompanied with a request for absolute assurances for freedom from molestation on both outward and homeward voyages. Italians may well refuse and recent sinking of Arno reduces chances of Italian acceptances.

5. It would help us to know the degree of urgency to be attached to the voyage of a hospital ship to Malta.

NEW ENEMY AIRFIELD UNDER DEVELOPMENT

Photo-reconnaissance pilots today reported development of a new aircraft facilities at a former aerodrome 8½ miles south of Cotrone, near Cape Rizzutto. Although much of the surface still appears unusable, extensive levelling appears to be in progress on the north side of the field. A dispersal area with a small hangar and nine blast shelters have also been marked on the site.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 15 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 16 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

0615-0655 hrs Five Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on intercept patrol: no sightings.

ME 109 fighters

0830-0913 hrs Air raid alert for twenty enemy fighters of which eight are identified as ME 109s. Heavy Ack Ack engage and nine Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept. Two ME 109s pass Blue Section moving in the opposite direction but are lost to view. Two ME 109s dive on Red Section out of the sun: the Spitfires turn and dive after the enemy aircraft. As they complete the turn, Sgt Peters is straggling. A Spitfire is reported as performing aerobatics and cannon fire is also seen. Four ME 109s are sighted but are impossible to intercept. Sgt Peters does not return to base and is posted as ‘missing’.

0950-1115 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron search for Sgt Peters. They encounter four ME 109s and engage but no claims are made.

1025-1110 hrs Air raid alert for a fighter sweep of 20 enemy aircraft. Ten Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy aircraft but do not engage. Heavy Ack Ack engage. Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol see two Macchi 202s. F/Lt Roscoe fires a one-second burst at one Macchi and sees white smoke pour from the engine as the aircraft turns diving away. P/O Scott turns to attack but is not seen again. Sgt Turner attacks three enemy aircraft but is attacked himself from behind; no damage. On heading back to base Sgt Turner is attacked by an unseen aircraft and is shot up; he is forced to land at Luqa. P/O Scott is posted as ‘missing’.

1033 hrs A friendly sea craft bearing 101 degrees is attacked and bombed by enemy aircraft: no damage.

1610-1650 hrs Air raid alert for fifteen enemy aircraft on a fighter sweep: half cross the Island. Four Spitfires Hal Far are despatched to patrol over Grand Harbour as cover for minesweepers.

1745-1825 hrs Air raid alert. Ten Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled to intercept: they engage four enemy fighters: no claims.

2330-2354 hrs Air raid alert for four enemy aircraft which approach the Island at great height: Heavy Ack Ack engage. Only one raider crosses the coast and drops incendiaries and anti-personnel bombs on Ta Qali, Wardia and Mellieha areas. The other aircraft drop bombs in the sea north east of Grand Harbour and south of Gozo. Malta night fighters are airborne but do not intercept.

Military casualties Flight Sergeant Bernard Peters, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve;Pilot Officer John Scott, Royal Canadian Air Force, 229 Squadron;Private Norman Salmon, Royal Army Medical Corps.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 1942

Qawra Tower

ROYAL NAVY 3rd ML Flotilla carried out a searching sweep of NE coast between Sliema Point and Ras il Kaura at a distance of 2 ½ miles from the coast, with the object of clearing the area used by army Launches towing targets and to give freedom of action to our surface forces in the event of their being required to take action against the enemy in these waters. Owing to the large number of partings only 10% clearance was effected. Many mines were observed 3 to 4 feet below the surface. The Flotilla anchored in St Paul’s Bay for the night.

AIR HQ Night One Beaufighter on intruder patrol over Sicily. Arrivals One Hudson from Gibraltar. Departures Two Wellingtons to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed in the sea, believed due to enemy action: pilot missing.

HAL FAR 1310-1410 hrs Four Spitfires carried out a sweep over south east Sicily. No enemy aircraft seen but accurate Ack Ack encountered near Comiso.

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Aerodrome working parties took over duties from 2^nd Bn Queens Own Royal West Kent Regt for one week’s work. Two shifts of one Officer and 50 Other Ranks (OR) each for crater filling and general duties; two shifts of eight OR and 12 OR respectively for refuelling aircraft; one shift of 12 OR ammunition loading, one Sergeant and 16 drivers.

16 September 1942: Lt Governor Flies Home to Recover

Former Lieutenant Governor Sir Edward Jackson left Malta today for England. Sir Edward collapsed two weeks ago with a suspected heart attack while he was deputising for Viscount Gort during his visit to the Middle East. In recent months he has been greatly exercised in overseeing the supply situation in Malta and ensuring the survival of the Island until further convoys can reach the Island. Mr D C Campbell, former Colonial Secretary of Gibraltar, has been appointed as his successor.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 16 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 17 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

0855-0935 Air raid alert for twenty enemy fighters which approach the Island from the north at heights of 20-30000 feet. Nine Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept (one returns early). They see nine enemy fighters who attack the Spitfires from the port and stern. The Spitfires break formation and evade the attack: no claims.

1140-1210 hrs Air raid alert for eight enemy fighters in a sweep. Ten Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept: they see enemy aircraft but do not engage.

1700-1710 hrs Air raid alert for six enemy fighters which approach within four miles north of Gozo before receding. Five Spitfires 229 Squadron are scrambled to intercept (one returns early): no sightings.

1750-1815 hrs Air raid alert for twenty enemy aircraft approaching on a high fighter sweep. Ack Ack fire pointer rounds. Nine Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept. Red Section sight enemy aircraft but are unable to engage. Blue Section patrolling Grand Harbour see four ME 109s below them and dive to attack. Sgt Wynn fires a two-second burst but makes no claim.

0008-0014 hrs Air raid alert for two enemy aircraft. One drops his bombs in the sea immediately after crossing the Sicilian coast; the other drops bombs 15 miles north of Malta.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 16 SEPTEMBER 1942

HMS Speedy minesweeping off Malta (NWMA Malta)

ROYAL NAVY 3rd ML Flotilla carried out 90% clearance inside the bay, and then swept down to Grand Harbour without result. Speedy carried out Oropesa search of QBB 273 and LL and SA search of Marsaxlokk.

AIR HQ Night One Beaufighter on intruder patrol over Sicity. Arrivals Two Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar.

HAL FAR 185 Squadron released for the day.

TA QALI 0800-0845 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron on reconnaissance patrol over the Sicilian coast: no sightings.

17 September 1942: Enemy Fear Malta Spitfires

According to intelligence summaries, the enemy will not engage with Malta fighters unless absolutely compelled to do so. Their caution proved well-founded today, as three ME 109s and four Macchi 202s were defeated in dog fights by intercepting Spitfires during the morning.

MALTA BEAUFIGHTERS DISABLE AXIS MERCHANTMAN

This morning an unescorted 2000 ton merchant vessel was seen off the Tunisian coast, heading on a southerly course. Six Beaufighters of 227 Squadron – five carrying bombs and one to deal with a reported air escort – were despatched to attack. They found the merchant vessel 30 miles south of Keliba and dived down to mast height to attack. Six 500lb and two 250lb bombs were dropped on the ship. One direct hit with a 500lb bomb and several near-misses hurled the deck cargo into the sea. The vessel came to a halt, listing to port, emitting brown and white smoke and pouring oil.

Cant Z 506 Airone

Later reconnaissance of the scene revealed a long streak of oil and wreckage spread over half a mile, while a Cant Z 506 circled overhead. Some 40 large packing cases and three upturned ship’s boats were drifting nearby and four more boats pulled up on the beach in front of Hammamet village.

One Beaufighter has been reported lost in action. Pilot Officer John Moffatt was making his first operational flight when his aircraft was hit and crashed into the sea, killing all the crew.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 17 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 18 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

0850-0935 hrs Air raid alert for 22 enemy aircraft in a fighter sweep. Ten Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept (one spare returns early). Blue Section sights enemy fighters 20 miles off Grand Harbour, go into line astern and attack. F/Lt Roscoe fires a 2-3 second burst at a Macchi 202 and sees pieces fall off its wing roots and fuselage: aircraft probably destroyed. P/O Farmer fires at the enemy leader and sees strikes on the ME 109: aircraft probably destroyed. As he returns to base Sgt Irwin sees two ME 109s and fires a 4 second burst as he closes from 300 yards. Thick grey smoke streams from the engine of one aircraft and the leg of its undercarriage drops down: aircraft damaged.

1100-1145 hrs Air raid alert for 27 enemy aircraft which make a sweep, crossing the coast at Delimara and St Paul’s Bay in three formations. Ten Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled to intercept but see nothing. Ten Spitfires 229 Squadron are also scrambled to intercept. Sgt Irwin attacks a ME 109 head-on, seeing strikes on its wings and fuselage: one radiator falls off and glycol streams out – aircraft probably destroyed. Sgt Irwin also attacks a Macchi from astern, seeing strikes on the fuselage and tail plane – aircraft damaged. P/O Farmer is shot down in the sea and picked up later by the High Speed Launch: he suffers bruises only.

1555-1630 hrs Air raid alert for 18 enemy fighters which approach at between 26000 and 30000 feet but do not cross the coast. Two Spitfires Hal Far patrol over minesweepers but see no enemy aircraft. Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron are also scrambled but see no enemy aircraft.

1700-1730 hrs Air raid alert for nine enemy fighters which approach in two formations. Six Spitfires are scrambled from Hal Far and patrol over the Island: no combat.

Night No air raid alerts.

Military casualties Pilot Officer John Dicker, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Pilot Officer John Moffatt, RAF VR.

Civilian casualties Mgarr Saviour Bugeja, age 8. Mosta Carmel Bezzina, age 73.

Submarine P43 HMS Unison

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 17 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Speedy swept P43 from patrol and later Hebe swept Utmost to sea.

AIR HQ Departures Two Hudsons to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire shot down into the sea by enemy action: pilot rescued uninjured. One Beaufighter missing from patrol: crew missing.

18 September 1942: A Raid-Free Day

AIR RAIDS DAWN 18 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 19 SEPTEMBER 1942

No air raid alerts.

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

1620-1735 hrs Five Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled on intercept patrol: nothing seen.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 18 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Hebe swept P35 into harbour. P46 proceeded on patrol.

AIR HQ Departures Two Beauforts to LG 224.

LUQA Luqa won their 11^th successive cricket match, beating the Convoy XI at Marsa. Luqa 161 for 3 wickets; Convoy XI 32 all out.

19 September 1942: Malta Troops in Landing Craft Training Exercise

TROOPS ON LANDING CRAFT EXERCISES

Two Motor Landing Craft arrived in St Paul’s Bay today. Units of 2^nd Brigade will carry out practice landings from these craft. The nature of the future operation for which they will be used has not been revealed.

WW2 landing craft (c) IWM A17955

MALTA BOMBERS ATTACK TWO CONVOYS

Four Beaufighters of 227 Squadron today carried out a low-level bombing attack on three small vessels of about 1000 tons which were crawling along the coast from Tripoli towards Benghazi. The Beaufighters came upon the convoy 24 miles east of Tripoli, just three miles from shore, where they attacked, dropping seven 500lb bombs close to the ships. All three were also raked with cannon fire. One of the ships ground to a halt; its wheel house collapsed and grey smoke pouring from the stern. The other two ships headed for shore and were later reported heading back for Tripoli under tow.

Then tonight six Wellingtons of 69 Squadron launched an attack on a southbound convoy of two 7000 ton merchant vessels with seven destroyers as escort, 75 miles south of Sapienza. An effective enemy smoke-screen made accurate bombing impossible but the bombers managed to unleash four 1000lb and twenty 500lb bombs on the convoy. Pilots reported near-misses on two destroyers but results cannot be confirmed due to the restricted visibility.

MILITARY SITUATION REPORT WEEK ENDING 19 SEPTEMBER 1942

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: C in C Middle East Rptd: The War Office

1. Enemy air – day: total 209 fighter sorties; approx 50 crossed the coast. Two ME 109s destroyed; two ME 109s, one Macchi 202 probably destroyed; four Macchi 202s damaged. Our losses two Spitfires missing, one Spitfire destroyed (pilot safe); one Spitfire damaged (pilot unhurt). Night: 18 bombers approached, only 3 crossed coast. Bombs area Ta Qali, Mellieha, St Paul’s Bay; no damage.

2. Own air – daylight: (A) Total 10 Beaufighter sorties: result one merchant vessel 2-3000 tons left stationary, oil pouring from sides; one ship 1000 tons left stationary. Strikes with cannon and machine gun on three ships 1000 tons. One Beaufighter missing. (B) Total approx 70 Spitfire sorties offensive reconnaissance Sicily: two flying boats destroyed, one Macchi 202 damaged. One Spitfire missing. Night: (A) Total six Beaufighters intruder patrols Sicily. (B) Nine Wellingtons attacked two merchant vessels escorted by seven destroyers: no results seen due to effective smoke screen.

3. Approx 250 Army personnel daily assisting RAF servicing etc. Three UXBs totalling 0.6 tons disposed of not including incendiaries and anti-personnel.

4. Military casualties and damage – nil.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 19 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 20 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

Day No air raid alerts.

1100-1230 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled on intercept patrol: no enemy aircraft sighted.

1715-1835 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled on intercept patrol: no enemy aircraft sighted.

1755-1900 hrs Five Spitfires from Hal Far are sent to search for a missing Spitfire from the Photo-Reconnaissance Unit: nothing found.

0237-0322 hrs Air raid alert for five enemy aircraft approaching the Island. Only one crosses the coast and drops bombs in the area of St Paul’s Bay.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Talisman is 24 hours overdue. P211 arrived from Gibraltar, not having been expected until the following day. She was swept in by Hythe. P44 arrived and reported having sunk two small ships and damaged another off Misurata. Ploughboy carried out trial SS and LL sweep of Grand Harbour entrance having completed 5 months of refit.

AIR HQ Night One Beaufighter on intruder patrol over Sicily. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire failed to return from reconnaissance mission: pilot missing.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 3. Dealt with 1 high explosive 250kg; 1 anti-personnel container; 13 anti-personnel bombs; 30 oil incendiaries.

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Posted by maltagc70 on September 19, 2022 in 1942, September 1942

Tags: 185 Squadron, 229 Squaddron, 249 Squadron, 37 Squadron, 3rd Minelaying Flotilla, 69 Squadron, Arno, Clare, hospital ship, Malta, Royal Canadian Air Force, war diary, World War 2

13 September 1942: George Cross Presented to People of Malta

13 Sep

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WATCH THE PRESENTATION CEREMONY 1942

At 9.15 am, a wooden display case holding the Cross was carried out of the Palace by Police Commissioner Joseph Axisa and handed to Viscount Gort, who addressed the assembled company:

Governor & C in C presents George Cross to Sir George Borg (c) IWM GM 1765

AIR RAIDS DAWN 13 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 14 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine; visibility 10-15 miles.

0910-1025 hrs Five Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol sight two ME 109s but lose them in the cloud. Two Macchi 202s are then seen flying at great speed. No combats.

Military casualties Flight Sergeant Lawrence Swain, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 185 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 13 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P34 and P42 returned from patrol and were swept in the Hythe. P35 returned to harbour with engine defect.

HAL FAR 1105-1210 hrs Five Spitfires were airborne on a sweep over South East Sicily: no enemy aircraft sighted.

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Posted by maltagc70 on September 13, 2022 in 1942, September 1942

Tags: 185 Squadron, 229 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 37 Squadron, 3rd Minelaying Flotilla, 69 Squadron, Arno, Clare, Malta, Royal Canadian Air Force, war diary, World War Two

30 August-5 September 1942: Malta Faces Malnutrition

05 Sep

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30 August 1942: Rations Cut Again – Meat Only Twice a Week

From: Governor Malta To: Air Ministry 30 August 1942

Please pass to Secretary of State for the Colonies and Chiefs of Staff MidEast please pass to Minister of State Cairo.

1. Unloading and dispersal of supplies from convoy is now complete except for aviation and benzene, fortress can hold out until early December. Aviation spirit position has been reported separately to Chiefs of Staff in HQ Med Sig 0726 of 25/8. Benzine consumption has been reduced to 15,200 gallons per week but even so stocks will only last until mid-November. Benzine can be made to last until target date by drawing on 77 octane but this is likely to be required for blending with aviation spirit. We have 600 tons of 77 octane available, of which 250 tons are held as fortress reserve of MT spirit and 100 tons are needed for consumption by naval and RAF craft.

2. Target date of early December allows for following adjustments of consumption on civil side:

(i) Bread ration for men between 16 and 60 will be increased by 3½ ounces per day to 14 ounces.
(ii) Fat ration will be at half normal ration level during September but I hope to increase it to normal level at beginning of October.
(iii) Regular issues of edible oil will be made at normal ration rates.
(iv) There will be regular issues of coffee with possibly one period skipped.
(v) Regular weekly issues of kerosene will be made as from 1^st October but at summer rather than higher winter rate.
(vi) Domestic electricity supply will be restored on 1^st October.
(vii) Brewing will be resumed as soon as possible.
(viii) Present reduced rations of sugar and soap will be maintained, sugar being issued twice every three half-monthly periods and soap once very two periods.

3. Victory kitchens now have 60,000 persons registered and 170 kitchens are in operation. Further rapid expansion is possible but supply of vegetables cannot be further increased while potatoes are now almost unobtainable and meat supply is not as great as was expected and is already falling off. In future it will be possible to provide meat on only two days a week instead of five, and this may later have to be reduced to one if registration increases as expected.

Victory Kitchen

In this situation I have been carefully considering the future of the Victory kitchens. Allowing for small increases in rations now being made, calorie value of rationed foods per day for a man between 16 and 60 who is member of average size family is 1300, or 200 calories below figure normally taken as minimum. Outside rations, very little food is obtainable. Fresh meat, fish and vegetables are all too scarce to be rationed, even if this were possible from other points of view. Marketing of meat and vegetables is now under control of Government and no meat except poultry and rabbits and small amount only of vegetables is being sold on open market. Victory kitchens provide only satisfactory method of distributing evenly what meat and vegetables are available and if we were now to revert to old arrangement under which kitchens provide meals only on surrender of rations allowing majority of meat and vegetable supply to return to open market, effect would be that poorer classes would get very little, while those who are prepared to pay any price would obtain what they wished.

4. I am satisfied that in our present food situation it is essential to continue existing policy of providing one meal a day through kitchens outside rations so as to raise calorie value of diet to about 1800 calories. This can only be done by introducing considerable quantities of imported supplies into the menus. I have decided accordingly that all civil supplies of dried vegetables, dried eggs and cheese shall be allotted to the communal feeding department and that [pasta] shall be issued through kitchens on a substantial scale, estimated to absorb 230 tons of flour per month on an average registration of 150,000 persons. This allotment of flour has been allowed for in calculating target date. Menu will then consist of macaroni and cheese on two days, minestra on two days, meat and vegetables on two days and an egg dish on one day. I anticipate that effect of new policy will be to encourage rapid increase in registration.

5. In spite of increased issues described above, the civil food situation is still causing me considerable anxiety. Rates of rations and general scale of diet remain low. No signs of serious malnutrition have yet appeared but prolonged continuance of present food shortage must have its effect both on health and morale and shortage will be more seriously felt in winter. Anything which can be done by special means at any time before another convoy is run, to supplement diet by importing concentrated foodstuffs or food of small bulk, will help greatly. I will telegraph our immediate requirements of these types of food in the course of the next two days in case any special opportunity occurs to send such supplies.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 30 AUGUST TO DAWN 31 AUGUST 1942

Weather Fine; little or no cloud: visibility 15-20 miles. Wind variable becoming southerly; light.

No air raid alerts.

1105-1215 hrs; 1625-1725 Ten Spitfires 249 Squadron then ten 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled on patrol: no enemy aircraft are sighted.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 30 AUGUST 1942

ROYAL NAVY Clyde arrived from Gibraltar and was swept into Marsaxlokk by Hythe. Una sailed on patrol.

AIR HQ Day Nine Beauforts escorted by eleven Beaufighters were despatched to attack an enemy convoy. Night One Beaufighter carried out an intruder patrol over Sicily. Arrivals Two Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures Four Beauforts to LG 224.

HAL FAR Ten Spitfires went out to area 15-30 miles south east of Correnti Island and patrolled at 20000 feet over returning Beauforts. No enemy aircraft seen.

TA QALI Final movement of 248 Squadron pilots to United Kingdom.

31 August 1942: Alerts Total 2225 in 25 Months

AIR RAID STATISTICS AUGUST 1942

Total number of alerts to date 2225
Total number of alerts this month 141
Bombing raids day 39 night 20
Raid-free days 3
Night raids 37
Raid-free nights 12
Alerts for own planes 8
Total time from air raid alert to raiders passed 2 days, 56 mins
Average length of alert 29.1 mins
Killed 41 (15 men, 12 women, 14 children)
Seriously injured 33 (10 men, 14 women, 9 children)
Buildings seriously damaged 58

OPERATION PEDESTAL UPDATE

Ledbury after Operation Pedestal, NWMA Malta

A total of 568 survivors from ships sunk during Operation Pedestal were landed at Malta. 207 of whom sailed in Penn, Bramham, and Ledbury on 18th August. The remainder being evacuated by air as opportunity arises. The bulk of the cargo was unloaded by 23rd August, about 12,000 tons of furnace fuel, 3600 tons of diesel fuel, and 32,000 tons of general cargo having been received. The enemy made no attempt to bomb any of the ships after they had arrived in harbour, or, in fact, once they were within comfortable range of shore based fighter protection.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 31 AUGUST TO DAWN 1 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Weather fine, visibility 20-30 miles. Wind south-westerly, light; varying north westerly, light to moderate.

Day No air raid alerts.

0915-1005 hrs; 1515-1645 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron then four of 249 Squadron Ta Qali carry out patrols: no enemy aircraft sighted.

2221-2246 hrs Air raid alert. Two enemy bombers approached from the north but receded before crossing the coast.

Military casualties Able Seaman Arthur Jones, Royal Navy.

Civilian casualties Birzebbugia Carmela Ellul, age 30. Mqabba Emanuel Zammit, age 7; Joseph Zammit, age 6. Paola Emanuel Paris. Qormi Spiro Saliba, age 40.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 31 AUGUST 1942

ROYAL NAVY ML carried out sweep of the area extending seaward of entrances to Grand Harbour and Marsamxett to the 40 fathom line, and swept two moored mines and one conical float.

AIR HQ Departures Two Hudsons to Gibraltar; one Bisley to LG 224.

INFANTRY R Company, Lancashire Fusiliers, took over area from E Company, 2^nd Battalion Royal West Kent Regiment, and vice versa.

1 September 1942: Anti-Personnel Bomb Kills Two Children

MALTA FIGHTERS’ SCORE NEARS 1000

Malta Radar stations detect raiders (NWMA Malta)

Reports released today show that 936 Axis aircraft have been destroyed over Malta or by Malta-based aircraft since Italy entered the war in June 1940.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 1 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 2 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fine, visibility 10-15 miles.

1300 hrs One anti-personnel bomb explodes on Ta Qali aerodrome, seriously injuring three Maltese children: two of them die in hospital.

1858-1907 hrs Air raid alert for three enemy fighters. Five Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept but the raiders turn back five miles from the Island.

Military casualties Nil.

Civilian casualties Rabat Francis Sammut, age 16; Carmel Tanti, age 14.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 1 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P35 arrived and was swept into harbour, having sunk a southbound 5,000 ton merchant vessel.

AIR HQ 2150 hrs Five Wellingtons 69 Squadron were despatched to attack a 4000 ton tanker with an escort of two destroyers near Corfu. They dropped four 250lb and twenty 500lb bombs with several near-misses: the convoy continued on course. One Wellington missing. 0130 hrs One Beaufighter carried out an intruder patrol over Sicily. No enemy sighted.

Arrivals Four Beauforts, three Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures Two Hudsons to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire tyre burst on take-off, crash-landed: pilot uninjured. One Beaufighter undercarriage collapsed on landing: crew uninjured.

HAL FAR 0930-1035 hrs Four Spitfires Hal Far carried out a high level sweep over Correnti Island, Noto, Ragusa and Pozzala in Sicily. No enemy aircraft or shipping sighted. 1315-1325 hrs The Spitfire of Pilot Officer Cheek crash-landed on an air test: his tyre burst on take-off and he had to land ‘wheels up’.

LUQA Luqa beat the Gun Operations Room in a cricket match: results Luqa 108 (Neale 46), GOA 97. Camp Cinema: Captain Fury.

TA QALI 0705-0805 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron carried out a sweep over Sicily: no enemy aircraft sighted. 1200-1315 hrs Nine Spitfires 229 Squadron and nine 249 Squadron Ta Qali on a sweep over Sicily saw ships believed to be tankers outside Licata Harbour. The Spitfires are met with heavy, accurate anti-aircraft fire over Licata at 11000 feet but see no enemy aircraft.

Nos 242, 314, 502 and 841 AME Stations, Observer Corps Detachments at Dingli, Torri L’Ahmar and Ghargur, Officers’ and Airmen’s rest camp at St Paul’s Bay taken over by this Station for administration and rations.

INFANTRY 0545 hrs Exercise to test the alertness of sentries and communications within 4 Brigade. Also rapid destruction of parachutists in the Brigade area. Exercise began with firing of three Verey lights around Marsaxlokk Bay.

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY A Company are performing coast patrol duties at Il Kaus; B Company are manning Tal Virtu observation post.

2 September 1942: Malta Attacks Force Rommel’s Retreat

OFFENSIVE OPS CUT AXIS FUEL AND SUPPLIES

“We have some very grave shortages.” Letter from Rommel to his wife, 30 August 1942

Malta-based attacks on southbound convoys in the Mediterranean have forced Field Marshal Rommel to give up his attempt to retake El Alamein. The Island’s air and naval forces have starved the Axis of more than half of the supplies they need to continue the battle in North Africa. Rommel originally intended to begin a major offensive against British forces on 26 August but had to postpone due to a shortage of fuel, thanks to the sinking of two tankers in the Mediterranean.

Field Marshal Rommel’s plan stopped

With a promise that another convoy would set out immediately from Italy, at 2330 hrs on Sunday Rommel launched an attack at Alam el Halfa but came up against a massive minefield and a well-equipped British force under Lt Gen Montgomery. But nine Beauforts and eleven Beaufighters had already set off from Malta to attack the supply convoy, which had been spotted by 69 Squadron photo-reconnaissance pilots. At the same time destroyers, bombers and naval aircraft launched heavy attacks on Axis stores and workshops close to the battlefield.

Yesterday Malta-based submarine P 35 sank a southbound 5000 ton merchant vessel and the Island’s bombers stand ready to act immediately to any further attempts to re-supply the enemy. Attacks continued today with Wellington bombers targeting a tanker and Navy Air Service Albacores striking a merchant vessel and escort with torpedoes.

After three days of relentless allied bombing and artillery fire and faced with a precarious supply situation Rommel has been forced to call off the attack and withdraw his forces.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 2 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 3 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fair but cloudy.

0915-1020 hrs; 1015-1055 hrs Five Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali at a time on intercept patrol and sweep: no sightings.

1015-1045 hrs Five Spitfires Hal Far are airborne on patrol: nothing sighted.

1303 hrs Three enemy aircraft are reported approaching Malta. Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol sight one Macchi 202. F/Lt Hetherington, W/Cdr Donaldson and P/O Farmer each fire a burst in turn, all obtaining strikes. The tail of the Macchi is shot off and the aircraft goes down streaming glycol. The remaining aircraft recede without coming within 25 miles of the Island.

1930-1950 hrs Two Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol: no sightings.

Military casualties Corporal Arthur Simpson, Royal Engineers, Malta Territorial Force.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 2 SEPTEMBER 1942

P34 HMS Ultimatum

ROYAL NAVY P34 swept out but returned to Marsaxlokk with a leaky DSEA hatch.

AIR HQ 1305 hrs An offensive reconnaissance by four Spitfires over Sicily. One Macchi 200 is shot down. Night Two Wellingtons were despatched to attack the tanker targeted last night, now 10 miles south west of Antipaxos. The drop six 500lb bombs on the tanker, scoring one hit and causing a large explosion, followed by clouds of white smoke.

Arrivals One DC3 from Shallufa two Beauforts one Hudson from Gibraltar. Departures One DC3 to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Hudson tyre believed burst during take-off, crashed and burned out: crew uninjured.

HAL FAR 1720-1830 hrs Five Spitfires carried out a sweep over Sicily and encounter enemy aircraft. 2129-0235 hrs One Swordfish with flares and two Albacores NAS located and attacked a 5000 ton merchant vessel, escorted by two destroyers and a small flak ship, 15 miles north east of Cape Spartivento heading easterly. They located the target just off the toe of Sicily and score hits with two torpedoes, one aft of the funnel and one aft of the bridge, followed by a violent explosion. They leave the vessel down by the stern and belching clouds of black and white smoke. A later photo-reconnaissance report showed the merchant vessel aground close to where it had been attacked.

3 September 1942: Reconnaissance Pilots Praised for Axis Convoy Hits

“The Air Officer Commanding sends personal congratulations to 69 Squadron (Reconaissance) for successful attacks on two successive nights, when Wellingtons scored direct hits on an important tanker heading for North Africa and also near-misses on destroyers. The loss or even the disabling of the enemy tanker should greatly assist the British fighting Rommel.”

69 Squadron crew disembark Baltimore Luqa 1942 (c) IWM GM 1042

AIR RAIDS DAWN 3 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 4 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fair but cloudy.

0935-1030 hrs Five Spitfires Hal Far are airborne on patrol: nothing sighted.

1405-1510 hrs Four Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol: no sightings.

1701-1720 hrs Air raid alert. Five Spitfires from Hal Far are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy aircraft. Two enemy fighters fly over Comino Channel at 20,000 feet. Spitfires chase them back to within 10 miles of the Sicilian coast but are unable to intercept.

1845-1930 hrs Six Spitfires 229 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol: no sightings.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 3 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY P34 sailed for trials and proceeded on patrol. Clyde and P43 were also swept out to sea.

AIR HQ Departures Two Beauforts to LG 224.

LUQA Camp cinema: Tarzan Finds a Son.

TA QALI 1540-1635 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron on offensive reconnaissance circled Linosa and spotted a new building – ‘apparently’ a church. No enemy aircraft sighted.

4 September 1942: Navy Albacores Disable Axis Supply Ship

Fairey Albacore

Two Albacores Royal Naval Air Squadrons were despatched today to finish off the merchant vessel beached after their previous attack on Wednesday night. One Albacore scored a torpedo hit on the ship’s port quarter, while the other scored a direct hit with a 250lb bomb on the destroyer alongside, and straddled the merchant vessel with two other bombs. Photo-reconnaissance later showed that the merchant vessel had a large gap in her starboard side.

Later tonight two Wellington bombers took advantage of intense darkness to attack a small merchant vessel 30 miles east of Point Alice. They dropped a total of eight 500lb bombs on the ship but were unable to observe results, which will await confirmation by photo-reconnaissance.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 4 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 5 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Local thunder; rain with bright periods. Visibility 10-15 miles.

0848-0908 hrs Air raid alert. Two enemy fighters approach at low altitude, apparently intending a low-level machine gun attack, but turn back while still eight miles off the coast. Malta’s fighters are airborne: no engagement.

1459-1544 hrs Air raid alert. Eighteen enemy fighters approach the Island; four are identified as ME 109s. Some of the raiders skirt the Zonqor coast, while others patrol five miles north of Gozo. Malta fighters are airborne: no engagement. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds.

1700-1750 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on intercept patrol: no sightings.

2230 hrs Observers of 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report a light out to sea, 80 degrees RA 4.

2313-2321 hrs Air raid alert. Two enemy aircraft approach the Island but turn back when 20 miles north west of Gozo, dropping bombs in the sea.

Military casualties Pilot Officer William Storer, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve; Private Ronald Rooke, 2^nd Bn Devonshire Regiment.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 4 SEPTEMBER 1942

ROYAL NAVY Night Two Albacores RNAS were despatched to attack a merchant vessel beached eight miles north of Bianca.

AIR HQ 1720 hrs Six Beauforts and six Beaufighters were despatched to attack a convoy off Cape Spartivento but failed to locate the target. Night Two Wellingtons attacked a small merchant vessel 30 miles east of Point Alice, dropping eight 500lb bombs on the ship. No results are seen due to the intense darkness. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire had engine trouble, force-landed: pilot uninjured.

HAL FAR 1000-1115 hrs Four Spitfires carried out a Rodeo raid over Sicily but encounter no enemy aircraft. PM Seven Spitfires were despatched on a sweep over Sicily. The leader had a faulty radio and broke formation: owing to a misunderstanding the rest followed suit and as a result the Spitfires returned to base.

LUQA Luqa beat the RASC at cricket by nine wickets: RASC 36, Luqa 38 for one wicket. Camp cinema: Second Chorus.

TA QALI 0650-0750 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on Rodeo: no enemy aircraft sighted. 1320-1430 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on offensive reconnaissance sighted two unidentified aircraft but did not intercept due to a radio fault and subsequent misunderstanding.

1^st Bn DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Major General Scobie, GOC troops Malta, visited the Battalion. This is the second time the Bn has been under his command – Tobruk October 1941 was the first.

5 September 1942: Dog Fight Over Grand Harbour

MILITARY SITUATION REPORT WEEK ENDING 5 SEPT 1942

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: C in C Middle East Rptd: The War Office

1. Enemy activity confined 48 fighter sorties by day and 6 bomber sorties by night. One JU 88 crossed coast; good [searchlight] illumination. Bombs on land. One Macchi 202 destroyed, two ME 109s probably destroyed. Own losses nil. Recently there has been a large decrease in the numbers of bombers and fighters in Sicily, particularly German.

2. Own air offensive continues. 150 Spitfire sorties over Sicily also 4 Beaufighters by night. Malta based air attacks on convoys to Libya continue resulting in 1 tanker blown up, 1 tanker stationary, 2 merchant vessels hit by torpedoes, one destroyer hit by bombs; near-misses one merchant vessel, one destroyer.

3. Military damage and casualties nil. Intensified training being carried out. Small parties employed on aerodromes.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 5 SEPTEMBER TO DAWN 6 SEPTEMBER 1942

Weather Fair; visibility 10-15 miles.

0735-0810 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali on patrol: no sightings.

0910-0958 hrs Air raid alert. Six Spitfires 249 Squadron and five from Hal Far are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy aircraft. One Spitfire of 249 returns early, its hood blown off.

Grand Harbour

12 ME 109s and Macchi 202s cross the coast and circle over Grand Harbour area. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds. The Spitfires intercept some of the enemy over Grand Harbour and others 20 miles off Zonqor. 249 Squadron engage six ME 109s. P/O Williams scores strikes on one. P/O Giddings attacks a second; he sees no strikes but a panel flies off the port wing of the enemy aircraft. Hal Far pilot F/Lt Charney destroys one Macchi 202.

1440-1510 hrs Air raid alert. Eight Spitfires 229 Squadron are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy fighters. Heavy Ack Ack fire pointer rounds. The Spitfires see three ME 109s and four other fighters six miles east of Zonqor and chase them back towards Sicily: no engagement.

1725-1825 hrs Ten Spitfires Hal Far are scrambled to intercept a reported formation of enemy aircraft: raid does not materialise.

2250-2317 hrs Air raid alert. Two enemy bombers approach the Island; one recedes 40 miles from the coast. The other, a JU 88, crosses the coast and drops bombs in the area of Birkirkara. Malta night fighters are airborne: no interceptions. Searchlights effect one illumination and Heavy Ack Ack engage.

2230 hrs Observers of 1^st Bn Dorsetshire Regt report several white verey lights off the Delimara area.

Military casualties Nil.

Civilian casualties Tarxien Joseph Bonnici, age 56.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 5 SEPTEMBER 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals One Beaufort, three Wellingtons, three Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures One Hudson to Gibraltar; two Beauforts to LG 224.

HAL FAR 0640-0800 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron carried out a sweep over Sicily: no enemy aircraft encountered.

LUQA Camp cinema: camp talent contest.

TA QALI 1145-1315 hrs Thirteen Spitfires 249 Squadron (two returned early) and nine of 229 Squadron (one returned early) were despatched on a Rodeo raid. Two enemy fighters are seen but not intercepted.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 26. Dealt with: 7 High Explosives (2 x 500kg; 4 x 250kg; 1 x 50kg); 116 anti-personnel bombs, 18 oil incendiaries.

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Posted by maltagc70 on September 5, 2022 in 1942, August 1942, September 1942

Tags: 185 Squadron, 229 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 69 Squadron, August 1942, bomb disposal, Malta, Operation Pedestal, RNAS, Rommel, Royal Engineers, September 1942, war diary, World War Two

Tag Archives: 249 Squadron

29 November 1942: Starvation Rations Barely Eased Despite Convoy

30 November 1942: Spitfire Bombers Turn Table on Axis

1 December 1942: Another Convoy for Malta

2 December 1942: Convoy Rescues RAF Crew Adrift in Dinghy

3 December 1942: Tanker Joins Operation Portcullis Convoy

4 December 1942: HMS Welshman Arrives Safely

5 December 1942: The Siege of Malta is Lifted

22 November 1942: Malta Troops Stealth Mission to North Africa

23 November 1942: Operation Breastplate

24 November 1942: Malta Submarines ‘Torch’ Attacks Leave Axis Ships Ablaze

25 November 1942: British and US Military Chiefs Meet in Malta

26 November 1942: Convoy Supplies Enough For Three Weeks

27 November 1942: Polio Outbreak in Malta

28 November 1942: Breastplate Back On

8 November 1942: Malta Aircraft & Submarines Join Operation Torch

9 November 1942: Axis Fighters Move From Sicily to Tunisia

10 November 1942: Enemy Transport Aircraft Arrive in Med

11 November 1942: Qrendi Air Strip Opens

12 November 1942: Manxman Arrives With Supplies and Men

13 November 1942: Malta Fighters Disable 13 Axis Transport Planes

14 November 1942: El Aouina Under Fire

1 November 1942: ‘Spy Ship’ to Relieve Malta Fuel Shortage

2 November 1942: Operation Supercharge

3 November 1942: Empire Patrol’s Cover Blown

4 November 1942: 8th Army Breaks Axis Lines

5 November 1942: Axis Armies Taken Prisoner

6 November 1942: Four New Squadrons in Malta

7 November 1942: Aviation Fuel Enough For 4 Weeks

25 October 1942: Enemy Air Attacks Declining

26 October 1942: Malta Bombers Back On The Attack

27 October 1942: RAF Sink Rommel’s Hopes For El Alamein

28 October 1942: Operation Train Brings Reinforcements

29 October 1942: German Pilots Sick of Fight For Malta

30 October 1942: RAF Win Latest Battle For Skies Over Malta

31 October 1942: 14 Attacks On Axis Convoys

18 October 1942: Petrol Running Out

19 October 1942: Booby-Trapped Cluster Bombs on Malta

20 October 1942: Maltese ‘Spirit of Resistance’ Recognised

21 October 1942: Malta Blitz Fails To Stop Sinking of Axis Supplies

22 October 1942: Luftwaffe Crew Captured After 3 Days Adrift

23 October 1942: Battle For El Alamein Has Begun

24 October 1942: Rations To Be Cut Again

20 September 1942: George Cross Presented to People of Gozo

21 September 1942: Malta RAF is Helping Win the War, Says Air Marshal

22 September 1942: George Cross Starts Tour of Malta

23 September 1942: RAF Aircraft in Fatal Mid-Air Collision

24 September 1942: Malta Bombers Praised for Strike Against Rommel

25 September 1942: Luftwaffe Fighters Flee in Face of Spitfires

26 September 1942: Malta Attacks Enemy Tanker, Merchantmen, Destroyers and Subs

13 September 1942: George Cross Presentation to People of Malta

14 September 1942: Mystery Loss of Flying Boat Clare

15 September 1942: Admiralty in Negotiations with Italians

16 September 1942: Lt Governor Flies Home to Recover

17 September 1942: Enemy Fear Malta Spitfires

18 September 1942: A Raid-Free Day

19 September 1942: Malta Troops in Landing Craft Training Exercise

30 August 1942: Rations Cut Again – Meat Only Twice a Week

31 August 1942: Alerts Total 2225 in 25 Months

1 September 1942: Anti-Personnel Bomb Kills Two Children

2 September 1942: Malta Attacks Force Rommel’s Retreat

3 September 1942: Reconnaissance Pilots Praised for Axis Convoy Hits

4 September 1942: Navy Albacores Disable Axis Supply Ship

5 September 1942: Dog Fight Over Grand Harbour

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