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

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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

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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

28 June-4 July 1942: Enemy Launches Night Attacks – 37 Killed

04 Jul

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28 June 1942: Soldiers Train as Dockers

Unloading convoy ship Welshman (NWMA Malta)

Malta command has reviewed the unloading of the recently arrived convoy ships and concluded that the involvement of troops was essential to its success. Military manpower doubled the labour force and ensured the fastest completion of the operation, before enemy attacks could destroy ships and supplies.

Following the review it has been decided to train service personnel as dockyard winchmen and charge-hands, in advance of the next convoy to Malta. There is no indication of how soon this will be.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 28 JUNE TO DAWN 29 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind westerly; no cloud.

0513-0555 hrs The air raid alert sounds for four enemy bombers with a 10 strong fighter escort. Bombs are dropped on Luqa and Safi, destroying one Beaufort and damaging a Baltimore. Hal Far is also attacked: many delayed-action and anti-personnel bombs land on the dispersal areas and on the aerodrome, which is put out of use until 1900 hrs. One Swordfish is destroyed and four Spitfires are damaged and one soldier is slightly injured.

0515-0614 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron Luqa is airborne on intercept patrol: no combat.

0635 hrs; 0700 hrs Air raid alerts sound for enemy fighter sweeps.

0830-0915 hrs; 1135-1200 hrs Four Spitfires from Luqa, then two from 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on intercept patrol: no combat.

1515 hrs A formation of six Messerschmitts is reported approaching the Island. Twelve Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept but see nothing; they land at 1600 hrs.

1820 hrs Air raid alert. A formation of six ME 109s carry out a surprise attack on minesweepers off Grand Harbour.

2040 hrs Air raid alert: raid does not materialise.

2345-0130 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron Luqa on intercept patrol: F/O Mitchell destroys a JU 87.

0034 hrs; 0505 hrs Two air raid alerts sound. A total of 21 aircraft approach the Island in two raids; only nine cross the coast. Bombs are dropped across Mellieha, Safi and Hal Far, killing two Other Ranks 1^st Bn Hampshire Regt and injuring two.

0445 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept 10 JU 88s approaching the Island.

0450-0605 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron is airborne on intercept patrol. The Spitfires observe F/O Fumerton engage one JU 88, which he destroys: it is seen later burning in the sea. He later attacks and destroys another JU 88.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 28 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Nineteen mines swept. Sweepers were machine gunned by ME 109s from 5000 feet without causing damage or casualties.

AIR HQ Arrivals Six Wellingtons and two Blenheims from Gibraltar; five Wellingtons from Shallufa. Departures Six Wellingtons to LG 224; one Wellington to Shallufa.

HAL FAR 1900 hrs 185 Squadron and RNAS stood down.

LUQA One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance Taranto Harbour. One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance Catania, Gerbini, Gela, Biscari, Comiso, Noto. 2220-0142 hrs Nine Wellingtons despatched on shipping strike but were recalled without making the attack.

TA QALI 53 airmen of 601 Squadron arrived from Hal Far. 0125-0220 hrs; 0225-0310 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron patrol towards Sicily but see nothing. 0330-0415 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron patrol to Cape Passero and attempt to shoot up a beacon without success.

29 June 1942: Malta Fighters Chase Enemy Back to Sicily

AIR RAIDS DAWN 29 JUNE TO DAWN 30 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind south-westerly; moderate to strong. Little high cloud.

Lockheed Lodestar

0715 hrs Air raid alert. Two Spitfires Luqa area scrambled to intercept: no combat.

0855 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy fighters and sight eight ME 109s.

0900 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are also scrambled and sight two of the ME 109s, but lose them when gaining height.

0910 hrs The air raid alert sounds as the ME 109s near the Island. P/O Barbour, 603 Squadron, is jumped by two of the fighters: he bales out and is observed safely in his dinghy.

0915-1045 hrs Two pairs of Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne to cover and protect minesweepers operating off the coast. They guide the rescue launch to P/O Barbour.

1425 hrs The air raid alert sounds with the approach of four enemy fighters. Eight Spitfires from Ta Qali search and locate them forty miles south east of the Island. They chase the fighters off towards Sicily.

1515-1540 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to cover the return of 603 Squadron: no combat.

1655-1725 hrs Four Spitfires Luqa carry out a patrol: no combat.

1935-2040 hrs Fighters are reported heading for Malta. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are airborne and ready to intercept: no combat.

2130-2340 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron is airborne on intercept patrol.

2245 hrs Two Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept eight approaching enemy bombers. The Beaufighter pilot F/L Edwards attacks and destroys one JU 88.

2250 hrs The air raid alert sounds as the bombers approach the Island. Bombs are dropped on St Paul’s Bay and on Luqa, damaging a defence post and motor transport.

2335 hrs All clear.

Military casualties Private Edward Green, 1st Battalion, Hampshire Regiment; Bombardier David Lee, 74 Light Ack Ack Regiment, Royal Artillery; Private William Morgan, 1st Battalion, Hampshire Regiment.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 29 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Weather unsuitable for minesweeping.

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Hudsons, three Wellingtons, one Beaufort from Gibraltar; one Lodestar from LG 104; One Beaufighter from Middle East. Departures Three Hudsons to Gibraltar; two Blenheims, one Wellington to LG 224; one Lodestar to Heliopolis; one Wellington to Shallufa. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed in sea after combat; pilot safe.

LUQA One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance (PR) Taranto reports 100% cloud over Sicily and Foggia. One Spitfire PR Taranto reports naval situation unchanged.

TA QALI 0625-0700 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on a search mission sight a dinghy in the water ten miles south of Cape Passero.

30 June 1942: Clamp Down on Black Marketeers

The Government of Malta is to introduce very severe penalties for Black Market trading. The new measures include a maximum term of five years’ imprisonment for those convicted. The new measures take effect from tomorrow. (1)

AIR RAID STATISTICS JUNE 1942

Total number of raids 173
Raid-free days nil
Night raids 60
Raid free nights 4
Alerts for own planes 11
Total time from air raid alert to raiders passed 3 days, 15 hrs, 43mins.
Average length of alert 30.4 mins.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 30 JUNE TO DAWN 1 JULY 1942

Weather Wind westerly; no cloud.

0910 hrs Air raid alert. Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy fighters. They encounter seven ME 109s over St Paul’s Bay but there is no combat.

1020-1125 hrs Three Spitfires from Ta Qali patrol over Gozo. The air raid alert sounds at 1045 hrs for approaching fighters but there are no interceptions.

1310 hrs Air raid alert. Four Spitfires from Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept enemy fighters. They patrol 20 miles towards Sicily but see nothing.

1510-1535 hrs; 1900-1910 hrs Two Spitfires 601 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne each time to intercept enemy aircraft but raid does not materialise.

1930-2030 hrs Four Spitfires 601 Squadron patrol over Gozo. Two more Spitfires 601 Squadron are despatched to provide cover for launches in Grand Harbour. The air raid alert sounds at 1955 hrs for approaching fighters but there are no interceptions.

2145-2335 hrs; 2250-2359 hrs Two Beaufighters on intercept patrol: no combat.

2234-0515 hrs Air raid alert. Six JU 88 bombers drop high explosive bombs in the area of Luqa, Qrendi, Birzebbuga and Delimara, and on Fleur de Lys.

0410-0515 hrs Thirteen enemy bombers and fighters approach the Island. Bombs are dropped on Safi and Luqa, where a starter battery is destroyed.

Military casualties Petty Officer Steward Joseph Attard, HMS St.Angelo.

Civilian casualties Attard Veneranda Scicluna, age 45. Safi Concetta Cashia, age 34; Carmela Cachia, age 2; John Farrugia, age 5.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 30 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Weather unsuitable for sweeping. SS King of England escorted by ML 462 proceeded to Marsaxlokk, arriving 2150 hrs. King of England pumped 100 tons of fuel oil from Breconshire during the night. Total number of unexploded bombs dealt with by Royal Navy in June: 3.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Whitley, one Blenheim, one Beaufort from Gibraltar; Departures One Whitley to Gibraltar; one Beaufort to LG 224.

LUQA 2151-0605 hrs Three Wellingtons S/D Flight despatched on shipping search. Two Malta-based Wellingtons attacked a southbound enemy convoy of three 6000 ton merchant vessels and four destroyers, 23 miles from Cape Maria de Leuca. Near-misses were observed on one of the merchant vessels. Three more Wellingtons of 38 Squadron attacked with torpedoes, scoring two hits on one merchant vessel. The pilots observed a lot of smoke and the ship came to a stop. After the attack, part of the convoy was seen to turn back towards Taranto.

1 July 1942: Malta Bombers Delay Rommel’s Convoy

A Spitfire of Malta’s photo-reconnaissance unit yesterday brought back photographs of Taranto showing much enemy activity in the harbour. Signs indicate that the convoy subjected to recent attacks has now been re-assembled. The deck cargo from the damaged merchant ship has been removed and transferred to another ship. Several more merchant vessels were observed berthed in the outer harbour, ready to embark with supplies for North Africa.

Wellington bombers

Overnight, a search was carried out by two Wellingtons in the Gulf of Taranto, to locate and bomb the enemy ships, and guide in torpedo-carrying Wellingtons ready to attack the convoy as it emerged from harbour. Another Wellington carried out a search to the south of the Gulf to cover a wider area in case the convoy made more rapid progress. The five torpedo-bearing Wellingtons left Malta at nightfall and circled near Cape Santa Maria di Leuca, ready to strike as soon as the convoy emerged from the Gulf.

At 0135 hrs this morning, three merchant ships and four destroyers were spotted crawling along the coast near Gallipoli, in the heel of Italy. The Wellingtons bombed and launched their torpedoes, scoring hits on one ship and near misses with bombs on others. The Italian crews appeared to panic, and immediately turned tail to head back to Taranto.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 1 JULY TO DAWN 2 JULY 1942

Weather Wind southerly; no cloud.

0810-0817 hrs Air raid alert for enemy fighter patrol.

0910-0930 hrs Air raid alert. Two Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept enemy patrol: no combat.

0950-1100 hrs Six Spitfires 603 Squadron are scrambled to intercept enemy fighters. At 1002 hrs the air raid alert sounds. The patrolling aircraft see four enemy fighters but are unable to engage.

1450-1520 hrs Air raid alert. Four JU88s escorted by 20 fighters drops one large high explosive bomb on the shore near Qawra Tower. Four Spitfires 603 Squadron are scrambled: no interceptions.

1815-1925 hrs Twelve Spitfires 603 Squadron are scrambled to intercept two approaching formations totalling some forty aircraft, two Cant 1007s with BR 20s, ME 109s, RE 2001s and Macchi 202s.

1840 hrs Air raid alert. The first formation of two Italian SM 84s with a close escort of Italian fighters heads for Ta Qali. The bombers drop twelve 100kg bombs on the Imtarfa area. A separate formation of German and Italian fighters is spotted to the north east of Gozo. P/O Hurst, 603 Squadron, attacks one bomber from 300 yards to point-blank range and sees strikes on the aircraft. Hurst is hit by return fire and loses all his glycol. Sgt Parkinson destroys one ME 109 and damages another. Parkinson is then jumped by another fighter and has to bale out. He is slightly injured and is rescued later.

1930 hrs All clear.

2000-2015 hrs Air raid alert.

2015-2130 hrs Three Spitfires 603 Squadron are despatched on dusk patrol: nil report.

2215-2245 hrs; 2330-2335 hrs; 2359-0045 hrs Air raid alerts. A total of 25 aircraft cross the Island, including Italian and German bombers with fighter escort. Bombs are dropped on Qrendi, Marsaxlokk, Hal Far, Luqa, Kalafrana, Boschetto, Ta Qali, Marfa and Rabat. Heavy Ack Ack engage.

0150-0245 hrs Air raid alert. Unidentified enemy aircraft drop bombs in the Luqa area, destroying one Wellington and one Beaufort.

Military casualties Private James Hoare, 2nd Battalion, the Devonshire Regiment; Colour Sergeant Thornton Springett, 2nd Battalion, Devonshire Regiment.

Civilian casualties Qrendi Carmela Spiteri, age 70.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 1 JULY 1942

ROYAL NAVY SS King of England returned from Marsaxlokk escorted by ML 462, having recovered 100 tons of fuel oil from Breconshire.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Hudson, one Whitley, two Hudsons, one Wellington from Gibraltar. Departures One Hudson, one Whitley from Gibraltar; one Wellington from Heliopolis; two Wellingtons, one Blenheim from LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire shot down into the sea: pilot safe.

2 July 1942: Fire bombing of Boschetto Camp Kills 7; Injures 11

Boschetto

Seven RAF servicemen were killed when enemy bombers targeted the RAF camp in Boschetto Gardens in the early hours of this morning. Three high explosive bombs hit the tented camp at 0100 hrs. One landed directly on a tent and the others exploded nearby, causing considerable damage to tents, marquees and equipment. Seven servicemen were killed and two were rushed to hospital with extensive wounds. Eleven more were taken to hospital later, either suffering from injuries or severe shock.

Dozens of incendiary bombs were also dropped in the raid, setting fire to the trees which burst into flames. Despite the ongoing air raid, all available men grabbed fire extinguishers and sand buckets to put out the flames.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 2 JULY TO DAWN 3 JULY 1942

Weather Wind south-easterly; little cloud.

0830-0920 hrs Air raid alert for approaching enemy fighters. Eight Spitfires 603 Squadron intercept six ME 109s. F/O Mitchell damages one ME 109. P/O Hurst is reported missing.

0920 hrs Twelve Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy aircraft. They engage eight ME 109s and five Cant 1007 bombers. S/Ldr Lucas and F/Sgt Parkes each destroy one ME 109. W/O Ramsay damages a starboard engine of one aircraft and sees pieces fly off the port wing. F/Sgt De Nancrede scores hits on the leading bomber and damages the port bomber. Eight Spitfires 603 Squadron are also airborne and see a Cant 1007 with 20 strong fighter escort. P/O King and P/O Glazebrook together probably destroy a Macchi. Both pilots are then attacked head-on and they crash land at Ta Qali.

0955-1020 hrs Air raid alert. The five Cant 1007s drop thirty 100kg and five 50kg bombs on Safi and Kalafrana. Spitfires of 603 Squadron attack. P/O Smith damages one Cant and destroys one ME 109. F/O Mitchell and P/O Newman both attack a bomber, leaving his engine smoking. Sgt Parkinson and P/O Johnson each damage one RE 2001.

1055-1205 hrs; 1205-1245 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron, then two of 603 Squadron search for P/O Hurst.

1245-1400 hrs Four Spitfires attack a fishing smack south of Kalafrana.

1400 hrs Seven Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy bombers.

1420 hrs Air raid alert. Three JU 88 bombers escorted by four fighters drop bombs on Luqa from 23000 feet, killing two civilians and wounding two civilians and two servicemen. One Beaufighter is slightly damaged. The Spitfires attack the JU 88s. P/O Spradley damages the centre one; P/O Linton damages another. P/O Daddo-Langlois attacks the port bomber and the crew bales out 40 miles north of the Island. F/Sgt Middlemiss spots a ME 109 on the tail of P/O Kelly. He opens fire and sees the ME 109 dive down and splash into the sea. P/O Kelly does not return.

1455 hrs All clear.

1505-1615 hrs Spitfires of 249 Squadron search for P/O Kelly but find nothing.

1825-1842 hrs Air raid alert.

1855-2000 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne on patrol to cover minesweepers.

1920 hrs Air raid alert. Seven Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled and sight eight Cant 1007s with a 15 strong fighter escort. S/Ldr Lucas damages one ME 109. F/Sgt Parkes also damages one ME 109 which is last seen diving down. F/Sgt De Nancrede is hit in the engine in a head-on attack and crash-lands at Ta Qali.

1946-2015 hrs Air raid alert. Two Cants drop 100kg bombs on Luqa, safi and Hal Far from 20000ft.

2300-2307 hrs; 0005-0030 hrs Air raid alerts. Italian and German bombers drop high explosive and anti-personnel bombs on scattered areas. Heavy and Light Ack Ack engage.

0055-0154 hrs Air raid alert. Enemy aircraft drop bombs on Luqa. One Beaufighter is airborne. P/O Fumerton fires a one-second burst at a JU 88 which causes an explosion. A further burst sets the bomber on fire and it falls into the sea. Four pilots of 249 Squadron search for a pilot in the sea 10-12 miles north of Grand Harbour. They locate him and observe the launch completing the rescue.

Military casualties Leading Aircraftsman Norman Clark, Royal Air Force; Aircraftsman 1 Cecil Clarke Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAF VR); Corporal Gilbert Cruickshank, RAF; Pilot Officer John Hurst DFC, RAF VR, Leading Aircraftsman John Johnson, RAF VR; Aircraftsman Harry Lapish, Mentioned in Despatches, RAF VR; Aircraftsman George Meyrick, RAF VR; Corporal Bertie Nichols, RAF VR; Leading Aircraftsman J Portelli, RAF.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 2 JULY 1942

ROYAL NAVY Minesweeping in progress. 22 mines swept.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Beaufort, three Hudsons, five Wellingtons from Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed on landing: pilot uninjured. One Spitfire badly shot up in combat: pilot injured. One Spitfire shot down in combat: pilot missing, believed killed. One Spitfire shot down in combat into the sea: pilot missing, believed killed. Two Spitfires crashed on landing after combat: both pilots safe. One Spitfire force-landed after combat: pilot uninjured.

LUQA Three Malta-based Wellingtons attacked an enemy convoy of three merchant ships and one destroyer, 8 miles from Madonna Isle and heading south-easterly. The largest of the merchant vessels was targeted and a direct hit claimed, as well as several near-misses. Three more Wellingtons of 38 Squadron attacked with torpedoes and a small faire was observed on one of the merchantmen.

3 July 1942: On the Trail of a Convoy

Santa Maria de Leuca

AIR RAIDS DAWN 3 JULY TO DAWN 4 JULY 1942

Weather Wind south-easterly; no cloud.

0855-0940 hrs The air raid alert sounds for a formation of three Cant 1007s escorted by about 12 fighters. The bombers drop twenty-one 100kg bombs on Lija and Attard from 21000 feet.

1145-1235 hrs; 1350-1410 hrs Air raid alerts for enemy fighters on patrol.

1820 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are despatched to act as cover for arriving Beauforts. Eight more are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy fighters.

1830-1845 hrs; 1935-1945 hrs Air raid alerts for enemy fighter sweeps.

2235-2240 hrs; 2330-2333 hrs Air raid alerts: raids do not materialise.

0015-0124 hrs Air raid alert for 14 raiders; 10 cross the coast and drop bombs on Ta Qali, Luqa, Qawra and Dingli. Several delayed-action bombs are dropped near the runway extension and the cuttings at Ta Qali.

Military casualties Lance Sergeant Randolph Dutton, 10 Battery, 7 Heavy Ack Ack Regiment, Royal Artillery.

Civilian casualties Attard Grace Borg, age 30; Mary Gauci, age 53. Floriana Laurence Cauchi, age 26. Hamrun Eleonora Apap, age 66. Rabat Consiglio Portellil, age 53. Siggiewi Laurence Cutajar, age 62; Josephine Muscat, age 52; Emanuel Muscat, age 22; Rosina Muscat, age 20; Mary Concetta Muscat, age 16; Saviour Muscat, age 7; Joseph Schembri, age 50. Sliema Peter Cordina, age 57.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 3 JULY 1942

ROYAL NAVY Four mines swept. Channel considered clear as far as Zonkor Point.

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Hudsons, two Beauforts, one Wellington, six Whitleys from Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire suffered engine failure and crashed into the sea: pilot safe. Two Beauforts failed to return from shipping strike: crew missing.

TA QALI Corporal Thomas and Leading Aircraftsman Portelli died of their injuries at Imtarfa Hospital.

LUQA Three aircraft attacked a convoy of three 9000 ton merchant vessels and seven destroyers, thirty miles from Sapienza. The pilots reported near-misses on two of the merchantmen. Another Wellington of 38 Squadron attacked with one torpedo but could not see results due to a smoke screen. Four Beauforts escorted by five Beaufighters carried out a dusk attack on a convoy of eight destroyers and three 7000 ton merchant vessels steaming south east…miles from Sapienza. One of the merchant ships was hit, causing much smoke and a red glow. Another was possibly hit.

4 July 1942: Morale Remains High Says Governor

From: Governor & C in C Malta To: C in C Middle East Rptd: War Office Military situation report week ending 4 July 42

St George’s Barracks

2. Enemy aircraft destroyed: by Ack Ack at night 2 bombers. By Beaufighters at night 8 bombers. By Spitfires 2 JU 88s, 3 Cants, 9 fighters. Probably destroyed or damaged by RAF P 7 bombers, 18 fighters. For loss of 6 Spitfires and 8 damaged.

3. Offensive air action limited to 11 sorties by Wellingtons against enemy convoys.

4. Military casualties. 5 Other Ranks killed, 9 Other Ranks wounded. Training of soldiers as winchmen, chargehands, etc for unloading future convoy proceeding. Morale remains high.

BEAUFORTS MISSING AFTER CONVOY RAID

This afternoon a Baltimore sent to find the main convoy from Taranto sighted the three merchant vessels with an escort of eight destroyers 15 miles south of the island of Zante, heading south westerly. Eight Beauforts were despatched to launch a dusk attack. They found the convoy ten miles south of Sapienza and attacked, claiming at least one hit. However, the Beauforts failed to return. Three Wellingtons launched a second attack with torpedoes and bombs, claiming near misses.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 4 JULY TO DAWN 5 JULY 1942

Weather Wind westerly; no cloud.

0645-0745 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali search for a missing Beaufort crew: no sighting.

0810 hrs Ten Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy aircraft.

0845 hrs Air raid alert. Three Italian SM 84s with an escort of ME 109s, Macchi 202s and Re 2001s drop bombs between Attard and Luqa, where they destroy the Signals Maintenance section and damaging another building. The Spitfires spot the Italian bombers and fighters and attack. S/Ldr Lucas destroys one bomber; F/Lt Daddo-Langlois and F/Sgt Middlemiss together destroy a second and F/Sgt Rae the third.

0855-1015 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron patrol above the rescue launch and then intercept six Macchi 202s. P/O King is shot up but unhurt.

0905-1050 hrs Two Spitfires 603 Squadron continue a patrol for the rescue launch as it searches for Italian air crew in the sea.

1550-1555 hrs; 1615-1645 hrs Air raid alert: raids do not materialise.

1730-1830 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron on patrol: nil report.

1935 hrs Eight Spitfires from Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept enemy aircraft.

1948 hrs Air raid alert. Five Cant 1007s with 15 fighters drop bombs on Ta Qali and Musta. The Spitfires of 249 Squadron attack the raiders. F/Sgt De Lara damages one Italian fighter. P/O McElroy probably destroys one RE 2001 and sees two others spinning downwards. Fighters jump S/Ldr Lucas, damaging his aircraft.

2000 hrs All clear.

2130-2205 hrs Two Spitfires 603 Squadron on patrol: nil report.

2215-2305 hrs; 2315-2359 hrs; 0250-0425 hrs Air raid alerts. A total of 26 aircraft approach the Island; 18 cross the coast. Bombs are dropped on Ta Qali, Mosta, Imtarfa, Wardia, Naxxar, Floriana and Valetta. Beaufighters are airborne on patrol: no engagement.

Military casualties Private Edward Walker, 8th Battalion, Manchester Regiment.

Civilian casualties Luqa Andrew Coleiro, age 53. Siggiewi Concetta Frendo, age 16.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 4 JULY 1942

AIR HQ Aircraft casualties One Beaufort crashed into the sea in transit from Malta to Kasfareet: crew missing. One Spitfire crash-landed: pilot uninjured.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 60. Dealt with: high explosives 31 (3 x 500kg, 11 x 250kg, 10 x 50kg, 7 AP containers); German 2kg anti-personnel (AP) 275; Italian 2kg AP 46; large no of dud German 1kg incendiaries collected.

(1) Malta Diary of a War, Michael Galea, Publishers Enterprises Group, 1994

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

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Posted by maltagc70 on July 4, 2022 in 1942, July 1942, June 1942

Tags: 126 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 38 Squadron, 601 Squadron, 603 Squadron, 89 Squadron, Devonshire Regiment, Hampshire Regiment, Malta, RAF, Royal Artillery, war diary, World War Two

21-27 June 1942: An Ounce of Cheese a Day (28g) as Rations Cut

27 Jun

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21 June 1942: Rations Too Low for Physical Labour

Military rations are now too low for physical exertion, according to medical chiefs. With the failure of the recent convoys, food stocks are now critical and supplies are not expected in the immediate future. As a result there will be no increase in the daily allowance – and further cuts in rations cannot be ruled out.

A typical daily military ration now includes just 12oz (340g) of bread, 1oz (28g) of margarine and ½oz (14g) jam or marmalade, with 1oz (28g) each of tea, tinned milk and sugar. Meals are small. On a Monday, for example, the lunch allowance consists of ¾oz (21g) of tinned bacon and 1 oz (28g) of tinned cheese, dinner provides 6oz (170g) of preserved meat, 1oz (28g) of onions, 8 oz (227g) of potatoes and of fresh vegetables plus 2oz (57g) of tinned fruit and 3½oz (99g) of flour.

In a report released today, the chief of Malta’s military Medical Services writes: “It is agreed that the present ration is insufficient for men carrying out hard manual labour and training, as is the case with an appreciable number of troops. A supplemental ration scale is considered advisable and has been recommended. Arduous training and P.T. although not officially countermanded on paper, is not being carried out in practice.” (1)

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TOBRUK FALLS

At dawn yesterday morning an Axis air attack was launched on Tobruk, followed by a heavy ground offensive. Last night reports were received in Malta that Tobruk had fallen to Rommel’s forces.

MALTA FORCES ON THE ATTACK

Overnight one aircraft attacked a southbound enemy convoy of two 10000 ton merchant vessels and three destroyers 32 miles from Cape Bon. The leading merchant vessel was hit and a minute after leaving the target a dull red glow was seen.

Nine Beauforts with Beaufighter escort also attacked a convoy of two merchant ships with one escort vessel, to the south of Cape Bon. Against heavy opposition, five of the Beauforts attacked, scoring two hits on each merchant vessel. Another aircraft which managed to hit the vessels failed to return. An escort vessel was also hit. One of the enemy ships was believed to be the Reichenfels and which was later identified a considerable distance away, enveloped in smoke.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 21 JUNE TO DAWN 22 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind southerly; no cloud.

0652-0727 hrs Eight Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are on intercept patrol: no engagement.

0705-0815 hrs Seven Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are ordered up to cover the departure of Blenheim aircraft from Malta.

0750-0820 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to intercept enemy aircraft: no combat.

0815 hrs Air raid alert. Three ME 109s carry out reconnaissance of the Island at 23000 feet. Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to intercept but do not engage; they land at 0845 hrs.

1400-1435 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron patrol Gozo: nothing sighted.

1710-1745 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are on intercept patrol: no interceptions.

1910 hrs Air raid alert.

1945 hrs Twelve Spitfires 185 Squadron are airborne to intercept approaching enemy aircraft. F/SGt Yarra destroys two ME 109s and damages one JU 88; F/Sgt Sim destroys one ME 109. F/Sgt Conway is shot up and crash-lands at Ta Qali; he is seriously injured. F/Sgt Terry is also shot up and crash-lands on the Attard Field dispersal area; he is unhurt.

2002 hrs Alert for one JU 88 and 12 ME 109s. Spitfires destroy three ME 109s and damage the JU 88. Two Spitfires crash-land.

2025-2125 hrs Enemy raiders are reported approaching the Island. Four Spitfires 603 Squadron are scrambled too late to intercept and see nothing.

2040 hrs Air raid alert: raid does not materialise.

2233-2341 hrs; 0245-0356 hrs Two air raid alerts for a total of 28 JU 88 bombers. Luqa is the main target but bombs also fall in the areas of Hal Far, Hamrun, Ta Qali, Verdala, Naxxar and Dingli. Flares are used to illuminate targets. A field of wheat is set on fire at Safi.

0445 hrs Air raid alert: raid does not materialise.

Military casualties Squadron Leader Robert Lynn, Royal Air Force, 217 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS 21 JUNE 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals One Wellington, one Catalina, one Spitfire, one Blenheim from Gibraltar; two Lodestars from Heliopolis via 121. Departures One Wellington, two Hudsons, eight Blenheims to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire shot down; pilot injured. One Spitfire crashed on landing from combat; pilot safe. One Beaufort damaged by enemy aircraft during a strike; pilot injured, remainder of crew safe. Three Beauforts missing from operations; crews missing. One Blenheim missing in Transit from Gibraltar to Malta; crew missing. One Blenheim missing in transit from Malta to LG 224.

HAL FAR 2330 hrs Two Albacores and two Swordfish are despatched on a strike mission; nothing sighted.

LUQA 0600-0918 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron on shipping search sighted three merchant vessels without escort in the Cape Bon area. 1145-1404 hrs Six Beaufighters 235 Squadron on escort duties attacked two JU 88s and two SM79s. F/O Wood and S/L Cook destroyed one SM 79; F/O Underwood destroyed two JU 88s; F/O Eyre damaged one SM 79. 1120-1425 hrs Eight Beauforts 217 Squadron on shipping strike located and attacked the convoy, scoring two hits on each merchant vessel and one possible hit by one of three Beauforts which failed to return. 1240-1600 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron on shipping search sighted two destroyers and one merchant vessel. 1713-2100 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron on shipping search sighted two merchant vessels of 5-6000 tons, two liners and two destroyers. 2245-0518 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron on shipping search located a convoy of two merchant vessels and three destroyers.

22 June 1942: Raids Increase – Crops at Risk

Flares illuminate bomb targets (NWMA, Malta)

Some 40 JU 88 bombers have attacked Malta since yesterday. An estimated 50,000 kg of bombs were dropped in just 24 hours, in the heaviest round of bombing raids for many days. All of the attacks have been in the hours of darkness: the enemy has adopted a new tactic of using flares to illuminate the targets. Incendiary bombs have been widely used, causing damage to crops. The Government is planning to warn farmers and householders to remove all flammable materials into shelter.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 22 JUNE TO DAWN 23 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind southerly.

0530 hrs Air raid alert.

0555-0630 hrs Three Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to cover the arrival of delivery aircraft; nothing sighted.

0835 hrs Air raid alert. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are airborne to intercept three enemy fighters which approach and carry out reconnaissance over Grand Harbour. The Spitfires do not engage and land at 0920 hrs.

0935-1010 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron are scrambled to intercept an incoming plot which proves friendly.

1158-1245 hrs Four Spitfires are airborne from Luqa to intercept enemy aircraft: no engagement.

1252 hrs Air raid alert. Three Spitfires 603 Squadron and three Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled but the aircraft is friendly.

1323-1446 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled for a reported raid which did not come in.

1745 hrs Air raid alert for six approaching ME 109 fighters. Four Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept but do not engage. The Messerschmitts withdraw.

1918 hrs Six more ME 109s are reported approaching the Island. Four Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled to intercept. F/Sgt Reid destroys one ME 109. Sgt Ferraby also fires but without result.

2239 hrs Air raid alert. 27 enemy aircraft approach, including a dozen JU 88s which drop incendiary bombs in the Luqa area, damaging one barrack block, and in the Safi dispersal area, damaging one Spitfire.

0250 hrs; 0322 hrs The air raid alert sounds for single enemy bombers which drop bombs mainly on Luqa, Safi and Hal Far but also Baida Ridge. A Bofors gun position in Qrendi is hit, killing one Other Rank and wounding two others. One Other Rank is wounded by an anti-personnel bomb at Boschetto.

Military casualties Bombardier Richard Clee, 182 Battery, 4 Heavy Ack Ack Regiment, Royal Artillery; Gunner Cornelius Falvey, 186 Battery, 74 Light Ack Ack Regiment, Royal Artillery; Lance Sergeant Francis Hancocks, 186 Battery, 74 Heavy Ack Ack Regiment.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 22 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Eleven mines swept in entrance channels. Two parachute mines reported dropped off Marsaxlokk.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Hudsons, one Beaufort from Gibraltar; one Lodestar from Heliopolis; two Wellingtons, five Beauforts from LG 05; five Beaufighters from LG 224. Departures One Wellington to Shallufa; one Wellington, three Blenheims, one Beaufort to LG 224; two Lodestars, one Spitfire to Heliopolis; one Cataline, two Hudsons to Gibraltar; four Beaufighters to Edcu. Aircraft casualties One Sea Gladiator damaged on the ground by enemy aircraft.

LUQA One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance (PR) of Catania, Gerbini, Biscara, Gela and Pachino LG. One Spitfire PR Lecca aerodromes. One Spitfire PR of two large merchant vessels, then three small and one large merchant ship in Palermo. One Spitfire PR Palermo shipping.

0700-1135 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron on shipping search: no sightings, only an oil patch and debris. 1435-1509 hrs Four Spitfires 129 Squadron act as escort for delivery aircraft: no combat. 2248-0415 hrs Two Wellingtons (38 Squadron and S/D Flight) on strike mission but made no attack. 2159-0432 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight on patrol located a convoy of two large merchant vessels and three destroyers: possible hit on one merchant vessel. 2209-0500 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight on patrol on patrol located two large merchant ships and two destroyers with two smaller vessels: a near miss is scored on one destroyer. 2203-0524 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight on patrol: no attack.

TA QALI Flying personnel 89 Squadron arrived and were posted to 1435 Flight.

23 June 1942: Malta Pilots Halt Enemy Convoy

Beaufort 39 Squadron Luqa waits for take-off

An attack was launched from Malta today by twelve Beauforts with Beaufighter escort. They targeted a convoy of four destroyers and two large merchant vessels steaming eastwards, 31 miles from Cape Spartivento. One merchant vessel was hit four times and was seen to go down at the stern. The other merchant vessel was probably hit twice and a destroyer was also hit, causing an explosion. All ships were left stationary. A photo-reconnaissance pilot today confirmed that the larger of the two ships is still sitting low at the stern.

A single aircraft launched a solo attack on another convoy of one merchant vessel 5-6000 tons with another small vessel, 30 miles off Cape Bon. Heavy clouds prevented any report of results.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 23 JUNE TO DAWN 24 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind southerly.

0820-0915 hrs Twelve Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept nine approaching enemy aircraft. They sight six ME 109s and get into a dogfight. P/O Slade damages one ME 109 and another is later seen in the sea. P/O Glenn damages one ME 109.

1100-1150 hrs; 1125-1220 hrs Four Spitfires at a time from Ta Qali are airborne: nil report.

1445-1545 hrs Three Spitfires 603 Squadron are scrambled to cover the return of Baltimores and Beauforts from their shipping strike.

1700 hrs A large plot of enemy aircraft is reported approaching the Island, including eight Cant 1007s and seven BR 20s flying in several formations with fighter escort. Twelve Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept: F/Sgt Vineyard damages one ME 109.

1740 hrs Twelve Spitfires 249 Squadron and eight 603 Squadron are also scrambled and sight three Cants flying in tight formation, with an escort of Italian fighters. P/O Slade damages one ME 109; P/O Glenn damages another. F/O MacLeod destroys a Macchi 202 and damages another. Three pilots shared in the destruction of another Macchi. One Spitfire is destroyed (pilot uninjured) and one slightly damaged.

1815 hrs The air raid alert sounds. Three BR 20s escorted by fighters get through to drop 10kg anti-personnel bombs and 50kg high explosives on Ta Qali and Mosta, causing civilian damage and casualties. One Other Rank of 2^nd Bn Devonshire Regiment is killed and another seriously wounded by an anti-personnel bomb.

1840 hrs Two Spitfires are scrambled from Hal Far to assist but do not intercept. F/Sgt McNamara crash-lands; he is unhurt.

2100 hrs Air raid alert: raid does not materialise.

2235 hrs Air raid alert for a formation of JU 88 bombers. One Beaufighter Malta Night Fighter Unit (MNFU) from Luqa on intercept patrol probably destroys one JU 88. The remaining aircraft drop bombs including incendiaries on Luqa. One Spitfire is burned out.

2335 hrs The air raid alert sounds for another approaching formation, this time of twenty enemy aircraft. Ten cross the coast and drop bombs, including incendiaries mainly on Luqa but also Qurmi, Ta Karach, Marsa, Hamrun, Zurriek, Nigret and Rabat. Flares are used to illuminate targets.

2340-0110 hrs One Beaufighter MNFU is on intercept patrol: no engagement.

Military casualties Private Walter Hillman, 2nd Battalion, the Devonshire Regiment; Aircraftsman 1^st Class Anthony Vella, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, Kalafrana.

Civilian casualties Mosta Paul Bonnano, age 45; Matthew Bonanno, age 4; James Mangion, age 67; Catherine Micallef, age 57. Mqabba Catherine Saliba, age 72. Zejtun Laurence Spiteri, age 62; Joseph Spiteri, age 55.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 23 JUNE 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals Eleven Wellingtons, one Spitfire, five Blenheims, one Beaufort from Gibraltar; four Wellingtons from 231 Wing. Departures One Beaufort, one Beaufighter, nine Spitfires, seven Wellingtons to LG 224; two Wellingtons to Shallufa; one Lodestar to Heliopolis.

Aircraft casualties One Wellington in taxiing accident; crew safe. One Spitfire shot down into the sea; pilot safe. One Spitfire crashed on take-off; pilot safe. One Beaufort shot down while attacking a convoy; crew missing. One Beaufort damaged by enemy aircraft while attacking a convoy; pilot injured, crew safe. One Beaufort missing after shipping strike; crew missing. One Spitfire crashed on landing; pilot safe.

HAL FAR Naval Air Service is stood down.

LUQA One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance (PR) located two large merchant ships and four destroyers. One Spitfire PR Messina, Palermo and Trapani Harbour located one merchant ship off Trapani, three more in Trapani. One Baltimore PR sighted oil patches; one destroyer appeared to be damaged and in tow. One Spitfire PR located two motor torpedo boats, plus three destroyers and one merchant vessel in Palermo, and three merchant ships at Pantelleria.

1138-1535 hrs Eight Beaufighters 238 Squadron on escort located an enemy convoy of two merchant vessels and four destroyers, plus one Cant 501, two CR 42s and one ME 109: no combat. 1110-1519 hrs Twelve Beauforts 217 and 39 Squadron locate and attack four destroyers and two large merchant vessels, scoring three hits and one probable hit on one merchant ship and two hits on the other. All ships were reported stationary after the attack. Two aircraft of 39 Squadron failed to return; one of 217 Squadron crashed on landing. Three aircraft were slightly damaged by anti-aircraft fire. 2200-0507 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight on shipping search: no sightings. 2208-0525 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight located one merchant ship and a small vessel: no hits scored.

24 June 1942: Solo Attacker Targets Enemy Convoy

Wellington bomber

The damaged merchant vessel observed yesterday in the Straits of Messina is now reported under tow by a destroyer. Tonight a single Wellington aircraft attacked a convoy of two large merchant vessels and one destroyer 50 miles from Taranto, heading north. On sighting the positioning flares, the convoy closed in and put up an intense smoke-screen. The attacker dropped bombs in middle of the smoke-screen but was unable to observe the results.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 24 JUNE TO DAWN 25 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind southerly; no cloud.

0805-0840 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa on intercept patrol: no combat.

0935 hrs Air raid alert. Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to intercept enemy fighters carrying out a patrol: no combat.

1125-1200 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept an unidentified aircraft which proves friendly.

1200-1245 hrs; 1545-1620 hrs Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron, followed by another four are airborne on intercept patrol: no combat.

1724-1815 hrs; 1820-1900 hrs; 2000-2035 hrs Patrols by our Spitfires 185 Squadron, four Spitfires 249 Squadron and four of 126 Squadron: nil report.

2330 hrs; 0215 hrs; 0405 hrs Air raid alerts. A total of 19 enemy aircraft approach the Island. Heavy Ack Ack destroy one JU 87: the pilot, an Italian, survives and is taken prisoner. A Beaufighter of Malta Night Fighter Unit destroys one JU 87 and an unidentified four-engined aircraft. All bombs are dropped in the sea.

0405-0630 hrs A Beaufighter of 1435 Flight Ta Qali on patrol sights a JU 88. F/O Fumerton and P/O Bing follow and open fire: the bomber bursts into flames and explodes.

Military casualties Lance Corporal James Byrne, 2nd Battalion, The Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 24 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Three mines swept away.

AIR HQ Arrivals Two Sunderlands from Aboukir; one Hudson, one Catalina, one Blenheim Bisley from Gibraltar; one Lodestar from Heliopolis; four Wellingtons from LG 15. Departures Three Wellingtons, three Blenheim Bisleys to LG 224; one Hudson, one Catalina to Gibraltar; two Spitfires, one Lodestar to Heliopolis; two Sunderlands to Aboukir; four Wellingtons to Shallufa; one Wellington to LG 106.

LUQA One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance (PR) located one large merchant ship and four destroyers stationary plus two small vessels in Crotene Harbour. One Spitfire PR Trapani, Messina and Palermo, locating five small ships outside Trapani Harbour. One Spitfire PR Marittimo, Pantelleria, Cape Bon, Kerkennah. One Spitfire visual reconnaissance Messina observes a tanker and train ferry.

0703-1125 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron on search located one small merchant vessel in Lampedusa Harbour. 1915-1930 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron airborne on search but wireless telegraph equipment failed. 1540-2035 hrs One Baltimore 69 Squadron on shipping search Messina Straits: no sightings. 2157-0715 hrs One Wellington 38 Squadron on shipping search was joined from 0228 hrs by another and three Wellingtons S/D Flight to attack. One Wellington attacked: no results were observed due to a smoke screen.

25 June 1942: Gunners Help Spitfires in Attack

Pinpoint firing from Heavy Ack Ack gunners helped Spitfire pilots destroy two enemy fighters today. In recent days ME 109s attempting patrols of the Island have managed to escape pursuing Spitfires before they could engage.

Malta photo-reconnaissance reports that the enemy merchant vessel damaged in recent air raids has reached Taranto Harbour, where it is currently being unloaded and transferred to another ship.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 25 JUNE TO DAWN 26 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind south-westerly; no cloud.

0615 hrs Air raid alert. Eight Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are airborne to intercept enemy aircraft: no combat.

0910 hrs Air raid alert. Four Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled and attack eight ME 109s carrying out a patrol but there are no claims.

0930-1005 hrs; 1050-1140 hrs Patrols by four Spitfires 126 Squadron followed by two Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne to intercept enemy aircraft: no combat.

1320-1330 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to patrol a given point: no air raid.

1340-1440 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled to cover a photo-reconnaissance aircraft.

1625-1735 hrs; 1850-1915 hrs Patrols by three Spitfires 249 Squadron and two Spitfires 126 Squadron: no combat.

1955 hrs Air raid alert for approaching enemy aircraft. Twelve Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled and intercept ME 109 fighters over Gozo. P/O Berkeley probably destroys one; P/O Lattimer destroys two. F/Sgt Tomkins is jumped and shot up over Gozo. He makes it back to Ta Qali but crashes on the aerodrome. His aircraft bursts into flames: he does not survive.

2044-2150 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron are airborne to cover the return of friendly aircraft: nil report.

2205-0035 hrs Three JU 87s attempt to bomb the Safi strip; one is destroyed by a Beaufighter on intercept patrol.

0317 hrs Air raid alert. Ten JU 88 bombers drop high explosive and anti-personnel bombs mainly on Luqa but also on Gudja, Zejtun, Hamrun and Paola. Incendiaries are dropped between Tarxien and San Giacomo causing several fires and damaging buildings, including some of 2nd Bn Devonshire Regiment.

0303-0432 hrs; 0331-0506 hrs One Beaufighter 89 Squadron at a time carries out intercept patrol: no combat.

Military casualties F/Sgt Maurice Tomkins, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (VR); Sergeant Stephen Matthews, Royal Air Force VR; Sergeant Wilfred Culbert, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, Royal Air Force VR.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 25 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Minesweepers and motor launches sweeping entrance channels. Fourteen mines swept.

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Wellingtons, one Hudson from Gibralter. Departures Two Wellingtons, two Blenheims to LG 224; one Hudson to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Wellington crash-landed; crew safe. One Spitfire shot down in combat; pilot killed.

LUQA One aircraft on delivery crashed near Luqa and was destroyed. Pilot F/Sgt Docherty was injured and two members of the crew were killed: Observer Sgt Matthews and Wireless Operator Sgt Culbert. One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance (PR) sighted a tanker just north of Messina. One Spitfire PR Taranto, Foggia and Naples located two merchant vessels and one destroyer off the Straits of Messina. One Spitfire PR in Straits of Messina reported the two merchant vessels and one destroyer; one tanker had left. One Spitfire PR of shipping Trapani, Palermo, Messina. One Baltimore on shipping patrol east of Catania. Two Beaufighters 235 Squadron on shipping search: no sightings except for a floating body.

2032-2250 hrs Three Beaufighters 235 Squadron despatched to escort Wellington strike: nothing seen en route. 2100-0520 hrs Three Wellingtons on search and attack mission located one tanker and two destroyers. One Wellington attacked with bombs but torpedoes were brought back. 2102-0612 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight and two 38 Squadron on shipping search and attack. One Wellington attacked a convoy of one tanker and two destroyers: no hits; torpedoes brought back. 2209-0612 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight on search and attack, attacked two merchant vessels and one destroyer: no results observed.

26 June 1942: Italians Attempt Daylight Raid

Cant Z 1007 bombers

AIR RAIDS DAWN 26 JUNE TO DAWN 27 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind westerly; no cloud.

0750 hrs Air raid alert. Two Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled but the raid does not materialise.

0915 hrs Two Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept an enemy fighter on patrol: no combat.

1020 hrs Air raid alert. An enemy fighter on patrol does not approach the Island.

1220 hrs Air raid alert for another single ME 109. Six Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: no engagement.

1802 hrs Air raid alert for twelve ME 109s which approach and carry out a fighter sweep. Four Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept.

1820 hrs Air raid alert for the main formation, including five Cant Z1007s, 15 Macchi 202s as well as Re 2001 fighters. escorted by twelve fighters. Eight more Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to intercept: F/O Currie destroys one ME 109. One Macchi 202 is also destroyed. Twelve Spitfires 185 Squadron join the attack: F/Lt West destroys one Re 2001. Two Spitfires are damaged in combat. Sticks of anti-personnel bombs are dropped from Ta Xbiex, Msida, Guardamangia and across to Luqa. Bombs are also dropped in the Luqa area, killing one man who was handling an unexploded bomb canister.

2032-2138 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled to intercept enemy aircraft: raid does not materialise.

0045 hrs Air raid alert One enemy aircraft drops bombs in the sea off Zonkor Point.

0045-0117 hrs One Beaufighter on intercept patrol: no combat.

Military casualties Fusilier William Wootton, 11th Battalion, Lancashire Fusiliers.

Civilian casualties Gzira Anthony Caruana, age 13; Henry Cassar, age 2; Mary Tanti, age 17; Concetta Tanti, age 13. Mosta Gerald Camilleri, age 33. Msida Lilian Dimech, age 17; Carmelina Dimech, age 12; Josephine Dimech, age 7; Mary Dimech, age 6; Rita Dimech, age 3. Qormi Anthony Borg, age 59; George Borg, age 35. Sliema John Attard, age 25. Ta’ Xbiex Agnes Smith, age 47. Zurrieq Catherine Darmanin, age 13.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 26 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Six mines swept. Surface plot investigated by Beaufighters with any tangible result.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Hudson en route from Gibraltar to Matruh crashed on Malta. Departures One Blenheim to LG 224. Aircraft casualties One Hudson engine failed and crashed on landing; observer and wireless operator killed; rest of crew injured.

LUQA One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance (PR) located three merchant vessels and one destroyer at sea, and two merchant ships leaving Taranto. One Baltimore 69 Squadron reconnaissance Cape Spartivento and Corfu: nothing sighted. One Spitfire PR located one convoy of three merchant vessels and one destroyer, then another of one merchant ship and two motor torpedo boats.

27 June 1942: Rations Cut Below Healthy Levels

GOVERNOR’S REPORT: WEEKLY MILITARY SITUATION FOR WEEK ENDING 27 JUNE 1942

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

1. Air: No attempt to bomb merchant vessels in harbour. Enemy activity over Island by only strong fighter patrols and eight Italian bombers. At night total of approximately 90 raiders, some identified as JU 87s and JU 88s. Main target Luqa and many anti-personnel, incendiaries and high explosive dropped by aid of flares. Military damage very slight.

Enemy aircraft casualties 15 fighters destroyed. Two fighters probably destroyed; five bombers, seven fighters damaged by RAF during daylight for the loss of two Spitfires destroyed and two damaged. Night Beaufighters destroyed four bombers (word corrupt) at night destroyed two bombers. One Italian prisoner taken confirms other evidence that Italians now flying JU 87s.

35 sorties by Malta-based torpedo aircraft. At least four merchant vessels, one destroyer hit for the loss of five Beauforts and five damaged.

2. Military: Army working parties employed distributing cargoes ex convoy from dumps to consignees. Working parties on aerodromes decreased by half. Calorific value of army ration now 2200 calories which necessitates reduced physical exertion.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 27 JUNE TO DAWN 28 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind westerly; a few small scattered clouds below the main cloud blanket.

0748 hrs Air raid alert. Eight Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept enemy aircraft: nothing sighted.

0845 hrs Air raid alert. Three Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to intercept enemy aircraft: no combat.

0945-1035 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali, led by F/L Daddo-Langlois, are airborne and jump eight Macchi 202 fighters. P/O Verrall, F/Sgt and F/Sgt Rae each destroy one Macchi. F/Sgt Rae probably destroys another and F/Sgt Middlemas damaged a fifth. Three of the enemy fighters are observed in the water, all within 200 yards of each other.

1020-1145 hrs; 1128-1214 hrs; 1220-1330 hrs; 1455-1515 hrs; 1544-1637 hrs; 1620-1720 hrs Intercept patrols by eight Spitfires 601 Squadron Luqa, two from Hal Far, four from 603 Squadron, two from 601 Squadron, four from Hal Far, then four Spitfires 603 Squadron: no combat.

1755-1825 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are despatched to search for E Boats suspected 15 miles from the coast: no sightings.

1840-1945 hrs; 1930-2050 hrs Intercept patrols by four Spitfires 601 Squadron, twelve Spitfires from Hal Far: no interceptions.

Military casualties Nil.

Civilian casualties Sliema Ivo Falzon, age 37. Zejtun Louis Zammit, age 46.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 27 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY One mine cut. Sweeping curtailed by unfavourable weather.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Hudson en route from Gibraltar to LG 15 landed at Malta. Departures One Hudson to LG 224.

LUQA One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance Taranto, Grottagli and Brindisi observes a tanker in Taranto.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 80; dealt with high explosives 15 (1 x 500kg, 8 x 250kg, 4 x 50kg, 1 x 35kg; 1 x AP container); dealt with 2kg x 300 plus few 2kg Italian and a large number of German 1kg incendiaries.

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

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

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Posted by maltagc70 on June 27, 2022 in 1942, June 1942

Tags: 126 Squadron, 185 Squadron, 217 Squadron, 238 Squadron, 249 Squadron, 603 Squadron, 69 Squadron, bomb disposal, Malta, RAF, Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers, war diary, World War Two

1-6 June 1942: Air Supremacy Keeps Axis at Bay – Malta Takes Stock

06 Jun

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HMS Porpoise arrives Malta (NWMA Malta)

Spitfires strength up by 27
Air supremacy keeps Axis at bay
Malta bombers attack enemy airfields, harbours and railways
HMS Porpoise brings supplies
Army helps farmers with harvest
Island on alert for stealth submarines

MILITARY SITUATION REPORT FOR WEEK ENDING 6 JUNE

FROM:- Gov and C in C Malta TO:- C in C Middle East REPT:- The War Office

1. Enemy bombing limited to 6 fighter bombers and 7 Cant 1007, in two attacks directed against aerodromes. Fighter effort also small except on 6 June when escorting rescue parties in vicinity Island. Enemy suffered majority casualties that day. Night raids, 1-2 June 15 bombers; 6-7 June 25 bombers. Enemy using flares but bombs widespread. Damage slight.

Enemy casualties: By Ack Ack one JU 88 destroyed at night. By RAF destroyed two JU 88, one ME 109, one Macchi 202, five Re 2001, one float plane. Probably destroyed four Re 2001. Damaged one JU 88, three Cant 1007, three ME 109, five Re 2001. Own casualties: Two Spitfires destroyed; one pilot safe; four Spitfires damaged: pilots unhurt.

2. Reinforcements 27 Spitfires arrived 4 June. Malta based Wellingtons continue attack targets Italy, Sicily.

3. Coast watching patrols have been increased and measures taken to counter raids add saboteurs in view interrogation and other naval reports. Large scale working parties total 2500 men daily for assistance RAF and farmers continue.

6 June 1942

AIR RAIDS DAWN 6 JUNE TO DAWN 7 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind southerly; no cloud.

0525 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled along with Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far to intercept enemy aircraft.

0530 hrs Air raid alert. The Spitfires engage and destroy two JU 88s. One Spitfire 249 Squadron lands damaged at Hal Far.

0625-0750 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept enemy an incoming formation of Italian bombers and fighters. One SM 84 is damaged by S/Ldr Hamilton, P/O McCleod, P/O Watts and Sgt Gilbert. One SM 84 is damaged by P/O Glazebrook. Sgt Gilbert destroys one Re 2001; P/O King and F/O Mitchell probably destroy one each; W/O Guay destroys one ME 109.

0713-0742 hrs Air raid alert. Four Cant 1007s with the remaining fighter escort drop forty 100kg bombs in the Luqa and Safi areas: all bombs fall in fields.

0820 hrs Air raid alert; raid does not materialise.

0920-1030 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron jump Re 2001s fifteen miles east of the Island. F/O Daddo-Langlois destroys one, P/O Jones destroys one, P/O Linton damages one and F/Sgt Butler damages one.

1020-1115 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali also attack the enemy formation. Sgt Gray damages one Re 2001 and F/Lt Lucas damages on ME 109. Eight Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are on patrol but make no contact.

1325-1400 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on intercept patrol: nothing sighted.

1605 hrs Eight aircraft are scrambled in response to an approaching raid. F/Lt Plagis destroys two RE 2001s, F/Sgt Reid destroys one RE 2001 and damages another. P/O Lambert, Sgt Dodd and Sgt Russell together destroy one two-engined float plane, believed to be searching for survivors.

1705-1745 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on patrol: nothing sighted.

1920-2035 hrs Eight Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne and engage Me 109s: no claims are made.

Ta Qali: 1942 (NWMA Malta)

2030-2140 hrs Two Spitfires 603 Squadron are scrambled to intercept a dusk raid of 20 JU 88 bombers. They make visual contact but then lose it as the hostile aircraft dive towards land. Aircraft come in in ones, twos and threes and drop high explosive and incendiary bombs in scattered areas but chiefly on Ta Qali, Luqa and Dingli. Delayed action bombs are reported on the outskirts of Hal Far aerodrome. 100 bombs are dropped on Ta Qali, causing craters on the dispersal areas and near the caves. The aerodrome remains serviceable. An ambulance in front of Cave No 11 is slightly damaged and one decoy Hurricane is set on fire. Searchlights are active. Heavy Ack Ack destroy one JU 88.

2220-2255 hrs One Beaufighter on patrol to intercept enemy aircraft: no engagement.

2330 hrs A delayed action bomb explodes near the Chateau Bertrand position at Ta Qali.

0130 hrs A delayed action bomb explodes at Ta Qali between Chateau Bertrand and the Caves.

0435-0620 hrs One Beaufighter is airborne on patrol; no engagement.

0450 hrs Air raid warning.

Military casualties Sergeant Eric George Martin, Royal Air Force, 104 Squadron; Sergeant Frederick Lambert, 26 Defence Regiment, Royal Artillery.

Civilian casualties Balzan Antoinette Zammit, age 18. Zebbug Anthony Rodo, age 26.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 6 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Beryl sweeping Marsaxlokk. Harbour sweeping Grand Harbour entrance.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Lodestar from Gambut; two Wellingtons, one CW20, one Hudson from Gibraltar. Departures Two Beauforts, one Wellington, one Hudson to LG 222; one Hudson to Gibraltar; one Lodestar to Heliopolis. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire engine cuts out during enemy action: pilot uninjured.

LUQA 0920-1010 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance Luqa, Hal Far, Ta Qali, St Patrick’s Hospital, Tal Virtu. 1123-1345 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance Sicilian aerodromes, Messina and Augusta Harbours. 2226-0220 hrs Six Wellingtons 104 Squadron Luqa despatched to attack train ferry terminus at Messina. A few fires were started around the target. All the bombs fell on Messina.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 7; dealt with 4 (2 x 500kg, 1 x 250kg, 1 x 50kg).

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS FRIDAY 5 JUNE 1942

HMS Beryl

ROYAL NAVY Beryl sweeping Marsaxlokk entrance and approaches.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Lodestar from Heliopolis; two Hudsons, two Beauforts, one Wellington from Gibraltar. Departures One Lodestar to Heliopolis, one Hudson to Gibraltar, one Beaufighter to LG 222. Aircraft casualties: missing transit aircraft one Beaufighter from Gibraltar to Malta.

HAL FAR AM 185 Squadron is stood down for the day.

LUQA No bombs on the aerodrome. 1630-1725 hrs One Spitfire on photo-reconnaissance of Malta: photos of St Patrick’s Hospital, Ta Qali and Hal Far. 2135-0303 hrs Six Wellingtons 104 Squadron Luqa were despatched to attack Naples. Bombs were dropped in the industrial areas of the town causing several fires, three of which were visible 25 miles away. 2124-0447 hrs Two Wellingtons S/D Flight despatched on shipping search and strike. ONe aircraft dropped bombs on Marittimo Island, the other located two destroyers but lost them before an attack could be made.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 8; dealt with nil.

5 June 1942

AIR RAIDS DAWN 5 JUNE TO DAWN 6 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind north westerly, fresh to strong. 100% cloud; becoming brighter later.

0530-0630 hrs Three Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are airborne on anti E boat patrol: nothing sighted.

0650-0740 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne on patrol: no interceptions.

0922-1026 hrs Four Spitfires 601 Squadron Luqa take off on an air test.

0950 hrs The air raid alert sounds and the four Spitfires are notified of four approaching ME 109s: they investigate but sight nothing and return to base.

1130 hrs Air raid alert; raid does not materialise.

1645 hrs; 1710 hrs Air raid alert.

1648-1716 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept enemy fighters: no engagement.

1730-1830 hrs 12 Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on patrol: nil report.

Night No enemy activity.

LUQA No bombs on the aerodrome.

0022-0355 hrs Six Wellingtons 104 Squadron were despatched to attack Catania aerodrome. No bombs were dropped on target but bombs were dropped by two aircraft on Syracuse town: a glow was observed but no fires.

TA QALI 1600 hrs Air Officer Commanding visited.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 1; dealt with 2 (2 x 500 kg).

4 June 1942

AIR RAIDS DAWN 4 JUNE TO DAWN 5 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind northerly; 100% cloud.

Day Seven enemy fighters approach the Island but do not attack and retreat before engagement with Malta forces.

0525-0620 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on anti-shipping patrol.

1020-1120 hrs Twelve Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on patrol: no interceptions.

PM Four Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled from Hal Far but the raid does not materialise.

1625-1705 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne on patrol: no interceptions.

Beaufighter

1906-1942 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled to escort a delivery Beaufighter: no combat.

Night No enemy activity.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS THURSDAY 4 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Beryl sweeping Marsaxlokk entrance and approaches.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Beaufighter from Gibraltar. Departures One Lodestar to Heliopolis; one Hudson to Gibraltar; one Wellington to LG 222. Aircraft casualties Missing transit aircraft: one Beaufighter from Gibraltar to Malta. One Hurricane crashed on landing with brake failure: pilot safe.

3 June 1942

AIR RAIDS DAWN 3 JUNE TO DAWN 4 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind north westerly, fresh to strong. 50% cloud; medium.

0900 hrs Air raid warning for ME 109s on patrol: no attacks.

Spitfires at Ta Qali (NWMA Malta)

0940-1040 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to escort incoming delivery of Spitfire aircraft.

1030-1220 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are sent to escort arriving Spitfires, and to search for a pilot in the sea.

1115-1312 hrs Eight Spitfires 126 and 601 Squadron are scrambled from Luqa to provide cover for the High Speed Launch.

1245-1402 hrs Four more Spitfires 601 Squadron join the patrol, protecting the launch until its return to harbour. The launch is tracked 8-10 miles north north west of Gozo: no combat with enemy aircraft.

1350-1425 hrs Eight Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to intercept incoming enemy aircraft: no engagement.

1400 hrs Air raid warning for ME 109s on patrol: no attacks.

1510-1625 hrs Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali aire airborne to intercept enemy aircraft: no engagement.

1530 hrs Air raid warning for ME 109s on patrol: no attacks.

1750-1845 hrs Four Spitfires are scrambled from Luqa to intercept enemy aircraft: no engagement.

Night No activity.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS WEDNESDAY 3 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Beryl sweeping Marsaxlokk entrance and approaches.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Lodestar from LG05; 27 Spitfires, one Hudson, two Wellingtons from Gibraltar; one Lodestar from Heliopolis. Departures Three Wellingtons, four Hudsons to LG 222; two Hudsons to Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties Missing transit aircraft Four Spitfires from Naval Op to Malta.

HAL FAR Six delivery Spitfires arrive at Hal Far. PM 185 Squadron Hal Far is stood down.

LUQA No bombs on the aerodrome. Six Wellingtons 104 Squadron were despatched to attack Catania aerodrome. Only one aircraft succeeded in bombing the airfield: the others found the target obscured by cloud and returned to base with their bombs.

TA QALI 0500 hrs Parade of all personnel at Ta Qali to explain arrangements and allocation of duties in connection with arrival of further Spitfires. Same organisation which was so successful before will be put into operation. Arrangments as to meals on Camp to be as last arrival day. 15 Spitfires arrived ex Carrier. One flight attacked by ME 109s off Pantelleria and one was shot down. One crashed on landing and broke undercarriage. Six Officers and seven Sergeants accommodated.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 10; dealt with 13 (4 x 500kg, 9 x 50kg).

2 June 1942: Malta Counts the Cost

Senglea January 1941 (NWMA Malta)

REPORT OF DAMAGE AND CASUALTIES

Figures have been released for the civilian damage and casualties in Malta up to 8 April 1942. Figures would have been much higher without the Island’s extensive rock shelters. Statistics for the period from 9 April are expected to be considerably higher.

15500 CIVILIAN DWELLINGS DESTROYED

207 PUBLIC BUILDINGS DESTROYED

70 churches
18 convents and nunneries
22 schools
8 hospitals
10 theatres
8 hotels
8 clubs
5 banks
48 other

Regent Cinema rescue operations

CIVILIAN CASUALTIES – ONE IN SEVEN KILLED OR WOUNDED

1104 killed
1318 seriously injured
1299 slightly injured

AIR RAIDS DAWN 2 JUNE TO DAWN 3 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind westerly; 50% cloud, colder.

0910 hrs Seven Spitfires 601 Squadron Luqa and six of 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept three Italian bombers with a fifteen-strong fighter escort of ME 109s, Macchi 202s and RE 2001s.

0923 hrs Air raid alert. The Spitfires intercept enemy fighters: 601 Squadron pilot 2/Lt Bartleman claims one Macchi 202 destroyed and P/O Hagger claims one RE 2001 damaged. 185 Squadron engage the enemy at 13000 feet 15 miles east of Kalafrana. F/Sgt Reid claims one RE 2001 probably destroyed and one Cant damaged. Sgt Moye damages one RE 2001.

Caproni Re 2001 Falco

The three Italian bombers get through to drop twelve 100kg high explosive bombs between Luqa airfield and the Safi strip.

0935-1045 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne: nil report.

1015-1055 hrs Three Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne to intercept ME 109s: no engagement.

1155-1230 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled for a raid which does not materialise.

1540-1615 hrs Four Spitfires 601 Squadron Luqa scrambled on interceptions: no combat.

1615-1715 hrs Four Spitfires are scrambled from Luqa and four from Hal Far to intercept an approaching formation: no combat.

1630 hrs Air raid alert: raid does not materialise.

1755-1850 hrs Four Spitfires are scrambled from Hal Far and four from Ta Qali to intercept enemy aircraft: no combat.

1810 hrs Air raid alert: raid does not materialise.

2120-2347 hrs; 0115-0145 hrs; 0220-0240 hrs; 0310-0340 hrs One Beaufighter Malta Night Fighter Unit is airborne on patrol: no sightings.

0305 hrs Air raid alert: raid does not materialise.

0445-0525 hrs Three Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are dispatched on shipping patrol.

Military casualties Nil. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 2 JUNE 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals One Lodestar from LG 05; three Wellingtons, seven Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures Four Wellingtons to LG 222; one Lodestar to Heliopolis. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crash landed in the sea after combat: pilot uninjured. One Hudson crashed on landing: crew uninjured.

LUQA 1055-1130 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance over Malta: Fleur de Lys, Siggiewi, Jebel Ciantar, Ta [Dehotyer], Marsaxlokk; Ta Qali pens and HQ Buffs. 2050-0315 hrs Five Wellingtons 104 Squadron bomb Cagliari Town. 2058-0330 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight on armed search for convoy: no sighting. Bombs are dropped on Pantelleria Island.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 10; dealt with 3 (1 x 50kg, 2 Italian AP bomb containers).

1 June 1942

AIR RAIDS DAWN 1 JUNE TO DAWN 2 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind south westerly; 50% cloud.

0905 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron Hal Far are scrambled to intercept approaching enemy aircraft.

0935 hrs The Spitfires attack four ME 109s and are in turn attacked by another two Messerschmitts about 20 miles east of Zonqor. Sgt Yarra claims one destroyed (crashes into the sea) and P/O Broad claims one damaged. P/O McNaughton is shot down into the sea and his body is recovered by the Air Sea Rescue Service.

0945-1036 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron are airborne from Luqa to cover the rescue launch: no interceptions.

1115-1145 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to intercept enemy aircraft: nil report.

1220-1310 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali gain height against a possible raid.

1620-1710 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled from Hal Far to search Kalafrana Bay for suspicious undersea craft. The search is carried out with nil result.

1740-1830 hrs Eight Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled for a raid which does not come in.

2030-2046 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled and take to the air to intercept an incoming raid but are recalled.

2045-2245 hrs One Beaufighter on patrol intercepts and damages one JU 88.

2332 hrs 15 bombers, including JU 87s and 88s, drop high explosive bombs on Ta Qali, Luqa, Birkirkara, Hamrun and Ghain Tuffieha, Hal Far and Wardia. A Beaufighter damages one JU 88.

2336-0120 hrs; 0115-0145 hrs One Beaufighter each time on patrol: no combats.

0215 hrs Air raid alert. Two JU 88s drop bombs on Hal Far and Luqa. Three Wellingtons are slightly damaged.

0220-0240 hrs; 0310-0340 hrs One Beaufighter each time on patrol: no combats.

Military casualties Pilot Officer Andrew McNaughton, Royal Canadian Air Force, RAF 185 Squadron. Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS MONDAY 1 JUNE 1942

ROYAL NAVY Porpoise arrived from Alexandria, being swept to bottoming berth at 0600 by Beryl and ML 126. Sweepers returned to harbour with Trusty Star. Porpoise surfaced at dusk and proceeded to Kalafrana, to unload cargo.

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Wellingtons, one CW 20 from Gibraltar. Departures One Wellington to LG 22; one Hudson, one Spitfire (photo-reconnaissance) to LG 222. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire crashed into the sea after combat: pilot killed. One Wellington ran off the runway on take-off: crew uninjured. One Wellington force-landed in the sea after an operation: crew safe. One Wellington crashed on landing from operations: crew safe.

LUQA 1524-1900 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance Cagliari Harbour, Palermo and Trapani. 1724-2000 hrs Seven Spitfires 126 Squadron are sent to reconnoitre enemy shipping Messina and Augusta, airfields Gerbini, Catania, Biscari, Comiso. 2130-0325 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight despatched to locate, bomb and [support] Swordfish strikes on a southbound convoy. 2335-0130 hrs Three Wellingtons 104 Squadron carry out a bombing attack on the submarine base at Augusta.

TA QALI Chateau Bertrand and the Pottery demolished completely.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 5; dealt with 6 (1 x 500kg, 1 x 250kg, 2 x 50kg, 1 Italian Thermos).

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

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Posted by maltagc70 on June 6, 2022 in 1942, June 1942

Tags: George Cross; 70th anniversary;, Malta, Royal Air Force, Royal Artillery, Royal Canadian Air Force, Spitfire, Wellington, World War Two

31 May 1942: RAF Wins in the Skies but Belts Tight on the Ground

31 May

MALTA WORLD WAR 2 DIARY MALTAGC70.COM GOES WEEKLY FROM JUNE

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“Rations have during the month been considerably reduced, and it is now a case of tightening belts until the next convoy comes in.” (1)

Kingsway, May 1942 (NWMA Malta)

MAY 1942: THE ARMY VIEW

At the beginning of this month it became obvious that the enemy were not maintaining as many aircraft on the Sicilian aerodromes. The attacks on this Island were on a reduced scale. On 9^th the Island received large reinforcements of Spitfires. On 10^th a minelaying cruiser brought supplies of Bofors ammunition to the Island and this ship was heavily bombed by JU 88s and JU 87s during its stay in the Dockyard.

The enemy was surprised to find over 60 Spitfires in the air waiting for him and also the heaviest Ack Ack barrage that has been seen over Malta for some months. The result was – on that day the enemy lost 63 aircraft destroyed or damaged.

Since that time we have had air superiority over the Island. Since this heavy defeat the enemy used mainly Italian aircraft and crews in his attacks and, although the raids have been on a much smaller scale, the percentage of enemy aircraft damaged or destroyed has been very high. Towards the end of the month bombing raids against Italian targets were resumed from this Island.

A feature of the month has been the increase of enemy E Boat activity around the Island. Undoubtedly some of these boats have been engaged in mine laying but this is probably not the only explanation of their activities. On 17^th some of these E Boats were engaged by our coast defences and one was left abandoned. Rather than let this boat fall into our hands and reveal its secrets it was bombed and sunk by enemy aircraft. On 18^th an Italian came ashore at post T4 and, from information given by this prisoner, it appeared that the enemy may possibly be testing our coast defences with a view to making a ‘Commando’ raid against the Island.

During the month nearly all the troops… who are not manning key positions have been engaged in construction work on aerodromes, and salvage work clearing up the damage caused by the heavy bombing in the previous month. The work on aerodromes has consisted of building pens to protect our aircraft and standing by to fill in craters and thus keep the aerodromes serviceable.

AIR COMMAND REPORTS ON STATE OF AIRFIELDS

By the beginning of May 236 pens had been completed in the aerodromes. This work had to be given priority over slit trenches, because of the delay in the dispersal programmes. The allowance of petrol to the RAF was 3000 gallons a week and was not to be exceeded. All airmen living within four miles of the aerodromes had to march to work. This limitation of petrol was a serious handicap to aerodrome work.

There was a grave shortage of miners owing to the shelter construction programme, and so any possibility of putting workshops underground had to be shelved, and we had to rely more upon dispersal than on underground workshops. Stores were distributed to 27 houses throughout the Island and 60 per cent of the work at Kalafrana in engine and airframes repairs was moved to Gzira, including instrument, armament, airscrew, coppersmith and petrol tank repairs.

As regards work on the aerodromes there was a very serious shortage of rollers. Rollers had to be used and manned during the whole of daylight hours with relief crews. Often during the whole 24 hours when bombing was heavy and aerodromes had to be made usable.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 31 MAY TO DAWN 1 JUNE 1942

Weather Wind southerly; clear.

0922 hrs Air raid alert: raid does not materialize.

1221-1259 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron Luqa are scrambled to intercept enemy aircraft: no engagement.

1340 hrs Seven Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept an incoming formation of Italian and German fighters.

1345 hrs The air raid alert sounds as the fighters approach the coast. 603 Squadron Spitfires engage the Re 2001s and ME 109s as they attempt a sweep over the Island. The Spitfires attack but no strikes are seen. One Spitfire falls into a bomb-hole while taxiing and breaks its back: the pilot is unhurt.

1508-1610 hrs Four Spitfires 601 Squadron Luqa are despatched to search a position east north east of Grand Harbour. They sight debris: an overturned float and a raft.

1804-1843 hrs Three Spitfires 601 Squadron Luqa are despatched to intercept enemy aircraft: no combat.

1945 hrs The air raid alert sounds for incoming enemy fighters. Four Spitfires 126 Squadron and four of 601 Squadron Luqa are despatched to intercept enemy aircraft. They chase the ME 109s but do not engage.

2235 hrs; 2350 hrs Air raid alerts: raids do not materialise.

Military casualties Gunner William Chandler, 74th Light Ack Ack Regiment, Royal Artillery; Private Domenico Vella, 1st Battalion, King’s Own Malta Regiment.

OPERATIONS REPORTS 31 MAY 1942

ROYAL NAVY Trusty Star, Beryl, and ML 126 sent to Marsaxlokk to sweep the approaches to that Harbour. HM 235 sweeping off Grand Harbour. 17 tons of oil fuel recovered from Breconshire.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Lodestar from Heliopolis; four Hudsons, two Spitfires, five Wellingtons from Gibraltar. Departures Five Wellingtons, three Hudson to LG 222; one Blenheim, one Hurricane to Sidi Barrani; one Lodestar to Heliopolis.

LUQA 2055-0106 hrs Six Wellingtons 104 Squadron Luqa were despatched to attack the train ferry terminus at Messina. The raid was very successful: large fires are seen, believed to be commercial oil storage tanks. Explosions were seen on the jetty and railway lines.

4^th BN THE BUFFS (ROYAL EAST KENT) REGIMENT Working parties Luqa aerodrome.

1^st BN THE CHESHIRE REGIMENT 15 Malta Volunteer Defence Force fired on Pembroke Ranges. Shooting quite good. GOC present.

1^st BN THE DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 1300 hrs One unexploded anti-personnel grenade is reported at 526186. Strengths: Officers 36; Other Ranks 833; RAOC (attached) 5; RAMC 1.

1^ST BN THE DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Working parties on Luqa aerodrome continue. Strength of battalion: 33 Officers, 654 Other Ranks.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Spr Briffa, No 2 Works Company RE, was involved in a motor-car accident and admitted to hospital. Bomb Disposal UXB Reported nil; dealt with 8 (Italian Thermos). Strengths HQ Fortress RE 4 Officers, 18 Other Ranks; 24 Fortress Coy RE 5 Officers, 219 Other Ranks; 173 Tunnelling Company RE 6 Officers 204 Other Ranks; No 1 Works Company RE 5 Officers 225 Other Ranks; No 2 Works Company RE 6 Officers 229 Other Ranks; 127 Bomb Disposal Section 1 Officer 20 Other Ranks; 128 Bomb Disposal Section 1 Officer 16 Other Ranks.

1^ST BN THE HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT 17 vehicles, 4 Officers, 130-150 Other Ranks at Safi strip widening and levelling runway.

8^TH BN THE KINGS OWN ROYAL REGIMENT Day working parties building pens for aircraft 6 Officers 200 Other Ranks. A Company Jebel Ciantar 4 Officers 131 Other Ranks; B Coy Ta Karceppu 5 Officers 122 Other Ranks; C Coy Inquisitors Palace 5 Officers 133 Other Ranks; D Coy Villa Azzopardi, Zebbug 5 Officers 125 Other Ranks; HQ Coy Ta Salvator 15 Officers 261 Other Ranks. Chaplain and Medical Officer attached.

11^TH BN THE LANCASHIRE FUSILIERS Luqa working party continued.

8^TH BN THE MANCHESTER REGIMENT The unit has supplied several working parties during the month for Ta Qali aerodrome and the work has consisted of constructing aircraft pens, repairing runways, filling in bomb craters and salvage. Owing to the very heavy raids during the month this has been very arduous work.

(1) War Diary, 8^th Bn The Manchester Regiment, May 1942

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Posted by maltagc70 on May 31, 2022 in 1942, May 1942, Uncategorized

Tags: 8th Bn Manchester Regiment, Kings Own Malta Regiment, Malta, RAF, Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers, war diary, World War Two

24 May 1942: Malta on the Attack as Enemy Bombers Stay Away

24 May

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Wellington bombers

EXTRA WELLINGTONS ALLOW FOR RENEWED OFFENSIVE

The arrival of a delivery flight of nine new Wellington bombers today strengthened the Island’s forces for the campaign against Axis convoys supplying Rommel’s forces in North Africa.

Overnight, three Wellingtons of 104 Squadron assisted by S/D Flight attacked a southbound convoy of one merchant vessel of 5000 tons and one of 1000 tons plus two destroyers 135 miles from Benghazi. Observers report a successful hit on the the large merchant vessel. One of the destroyers was also machine-gunned during the attack.

NO BOMBING RAIDS TODAY

Malta’s skies were free of enemy bombers today, as the Axis count their losses in the recent battle for supremacy in the air. Even the endless fighter sweeps were kept at bay by a constant series of patrols by the Island’s Spitfire squadrons. One JU 88 reconnaissance aircraft and two Italian Macchi fighters were destroyed and a third Macchi damaged in the two air combats today.

Monitors following Radio Roma heard them describe the plight of the Italian bomber pilots sent to attack Malta by night as “a hard lot. We are blinded by searchlights, hammered by the AA guns, pursued and ambushed by night fighters. There is no seeing the enemy till the British guns start spitting death at your bomber.” (1)

Thanks to them, for the first time in many weeks Malta’s inhabitants enjoyed a quiet night, with no air raid sirens.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 24 MAY TO DAWN 25 MAY 1942

Weather Little wind; no cloud.

0705-0948 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance Messina Harbour and east Sicilian aerodromes.

0716-0757 hrs Four Spitfires 601 Squadron are airborne from Luqa on interceptions: no combat.

0745-0855 hrs Eight Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali airborne: nil report.

0906-1118 hrs Four Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled from Luqa: no combat.

0930-1045 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali airborne; nil report.

1056-1153 hrs Four Spitfires 601 Squadron are scrambled from Luqa: no combat.

1225-1305 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali airborne: nil report.

1313-1414 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled form Hal Far. P/O Halford destroys one JU 88.

1445-1530 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali airborne: nil report.

1545-1625 hrs Three Spitfires 603 Squadron Ta Qali airborne to intercept three enemy aircraft. P/O Dicks-Sherwood destroys one Macchi 202 and damages another. P/O Barlow destroys one Macchi 202.

Night No enemy activity.

Military casualties Sergeant Arnold Merritt, Pilot, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve 104 Squadron; Gunner Thomas Hunter, 223 Battery, 32 Light Ack Ack Regiment, Royal Artillery.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 24 MAY 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals Nine Wellingtons from LG 106; one Lodestar from Heliopolis; two Albarcores from BU-Amud; three Blenheims, six Beauforts, two Wellingtons, one Hudson from Gibraltar. Departures One Lodestar to Heliopolis; five Wellingtons to LG 222. Aircraft casualties One Wellington crashed on landing: pilot killed, rest of crew injured.

LUQA 2110-0220 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight despatched to locate and bomb convoy then [guide] Wellington force onto same. 2133-0430 hrs One Wellington S/D Flight on armed search of Pantelleria, Cape Bon, Marittimo area. 2206-0255 hrs Three Wellingtons 104 Squadron are despatched to attack southbound convoy in co-operation with the S/D Flight Wellington.

4^th BN THE BUFFS (ROYAL EAST KENT) REGIMENT 0900-1700 hrs Working party of 9 Officers and 200 Other Ranks plus 8 x 15 cwt trucks daily for reconstruction of pens for aircraft at Luqa aerodrome.

1^st BN THE CHESHIRE REGIMENT Working parties at Luqa and Ospizio continue.

1^ST BN THE DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Working parties on Luqa aerodrome continue.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 4; dealt with 28 anti-personnel ‘Thermos’ bombs.

1^ST BN THE HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT Work completed on Hal Far. Work in Safi strip began. 17 vehicles, 4 Officers, 150-250 Other Ranks widening and levelling runway.

2^ND BN THE ROYAL IRISH FUSILIERS Battalion drums and pipes beat the retreat at Mosta.

8^TH BN THE KINGS OWN ROYAL REGIMENT Night working parties building pens for aircraft 6 Officers 200 Other Ranks.

11^TH BN THE LANCASHIRE FUSILIERS Luqa working party continued.

(1) Malta Diary of a War, Michael Galea, Publishers Enterprises Group Ltd 1992

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

Tags: bomb disposal, Malta, Royal Air Force, Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers, war diary, World War Two

17 May 1942: Stealth E-Boat Attack Repulsed

17 May

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MALTA’S DEFENCES COMBINE TO FIGHT OFF ENEMY VESSELS

German Schnellboot (E-boat)

In the early hours of this morning Malta’s early warning systems picked up the presence of enemy vessels close to the coastline. In an unprecedented co-operative effort, the Island’s coastal defenders, gunners and fighter aces thwarted an evidently top secret mission by German E boats.

0105 hrs A shipping plot is detected by radio direction finder off the Island: engines are heard north of St Elmo. Their movements are followed and searchlights are exposed but nothing is detected. Campbell Battery fires two rounds by the plot at an unseen target.

0204 hrs Four E boats illuminated by coastal searchlights suspected of attempting to lay mines. Royal Artillery guns at Tigne Battery engage the boats at 10,000 yards. The boats retire under cover of smoke.

0215 hrs The E boats are illuminated again: this time both Tigne and Rocco forts engage, firing 22 rounds. The enemy again create a smoke screen and retire northwards.

0235 hrs An explosion is heard bearing 050 degrees from St. Elmo and the Royal Artillery claim an E boat probably destroyed and one immobilised.

Daybreak One E boat is observed stopped in position 073 degrees St. Elmo at 10,000 yards. Fort Rocco engages and scores a direct hit.

0515 hrs Four Hurricanes 229 Squadron are scrambled from Hal Far on anti E boat patrol. One of the Hurricanes returns almost immediately with a minor defect. The remaining three find and attack an E boat five miles east of the Island. All three fire from 150 to 50 yards and score many strikes. Return fire very soon ceases and they leave the boat disabled with no signs of life on board. Hurricanes land at 0605 hrs untouched.

0600 hrs One Dornier 24 with strong escort approaches the Island on search.

0610 hrs Four ME 109s reconnoiter and then attack the immobilised E boat, setting her on fire. She finally sinks in position 097 degrees 15,800 yards.

Only two boats are detected retreating after the action; at least two are considered sunk.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 17 MAY TO DAWN 18 MAY 1942

Weather Wind south-south-westerly; 30% cloud. Good visibility.

0652 hrs Fifteen Caproni Re 2001 Falco Italian fighters complete a sweep at very high level, the first time the aircraft has appeared in strength over the Island. One JU 88 approaches with an escort of ME 109s.

0700-0750 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron from Ta Qali are ordered to attack the JU 88. F/Lt Buchanan engages the JU 88 off St Paul’s Bay and destroys it.

0730-0815 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali: no engagement.

0806 hrs Five Spitfires 126 Squadron are airborne from Luqa to intercept enemy air sea rescue service. Sgt Goldsmith on taxiing out runs into a partly filled bomb crater and is unable to take off.

0844 hrs One Dornier 24 carries out a search for survivors of the E boats. F/Sgt Parks, 126 Squadron attacks the Dornier, claims destroyed.

0912 hrs An unknown number of ME 109s approach. One is destroyed by Spitfires.

1008-1112 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron are airborne from Hal Far: no interception.

1012 hrs Five ME 109s approach, apparently searching for the pilot of a plane destroyed in the previous raid.

1110-1140 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali: no engagement.

1116 hrs Two ME 109s and two Macchi 202s approach from the north. The Macchis machine-gun Hal Far, injuring six RAF personnel working on a pen.

1130 hrs One Macchi 202 is engaged by three guns of 225 Light Ack Ack Battery; no claims.

1155-1300 hrs Two Spitfires 249 Squadron and six 603 Squadron from Ta Qali are ordered to climb up and bounce fifteen ME 109s a Dornier 24 flying boat searching near the Island. F/Sgt Verrall destroys one ME 109 and damages another. P/O Nash destroys one ME 109 and P/O King damages one. Sgt Hurst and P/O Barlow both attacke and damage a Dornier 24 flying boat. P/O Nash is shot down near Dingli and killed.

1307 hrs Four ME 109s continue the search.

1347-1411 hrs Two Spitfires are airborne from Luqa on defensive patrol: no combat.

1450 hrs One Dornier 24 escorted by twelve ME 109s carries out a search ten miles north east of the Island.

1715-1810 hrs Two Spitfires 603 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali: no engagement.

1732 hrs 15 Caproni Re 2001 Falcos accompanied by 15 ME 109s and Macchi 202s approach from the north at 20,000 feet and split up into twos and threes as they near the Island.

1805-1900 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali and sight the enemy formations. They climb to intercept the bombers as they head in to attack St Paul’s Bay – but instead turn back without dropping their bombs.

Seven Spitfires from Luqa intercept some eight of the Caproni Re 2001s. P/O Boyle and P/O Le Bas claim two probably destroyed; W/O Belcher claims one damaged. Sgt Howard is shot up and crash lands; he is seriously injured.

1900-2015 hrs Six plus enemy aircraft patrol ten miles south east of the Island. Six Spitfires 603 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali: no engagement.

Night Two alert sound for single aircraft, one of which turns out to be friendly.

0155-0240 hrs One Beaufighter is airborne on patrol to intercept enemy aircraft and destroys one Italian BR 20. No bombs are dropped on land.

Military casualties Pilot Officer Peter Nash, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 249 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Ghaxaq Michael Abela, age 26. Mdina Stella Sant Manduca, age 76. Zabbar Mary Fava, age 8.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 17 MAY 1942

ROYAL NAVY Albacores returned from an unsuccessful sortie against shipping.

AIR HQ Arrivals Four Beauforts, two Wellingtons, one Hudson from Gibraltar; one Lodestar from Gambut. Departures Two Hudsons, one CW 20 to Gibraltar; one Lodestar to Heliopolis. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire shot down in combat; pilot killed. One Spitfire damaged in combat and crashed on landing; pilot killed. One Wellington crashed on take-off; crew injured.

LUQA No bombs on the aerodrome. 0905-1154 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance of Sicilian harbours and aerodromes. 2337-0450 hrs One Wellington on search for enemy shipping. Located two merchant vessels and three destroyers. A smoke screen was put up and no attack made. Wellingtons dropped flares for Albacores.

TA QALI 20 airmen attached to this station from Kalafrana for the purpose of the special operations returned to their unit. Gallows erected on stations.

1^ST BN THE DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Working parties on Luqa aerodrome continued.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 3; dealt with nil.

1^ST BN THE HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT 4 Officers, 192 Other Ranks and 17 trucks working on Hal Far building pens.

8^TH BN THE MANCHESTER REGIMENT Unit supplied belt fillers, armourers party and a working party of 50 men with 100 men standing by for Ta Qali aerodrome.

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Posted by maltagc70 on May 17, 2022 in 1942, May 1942

Tags: Malta, Royal Air Force, Royal Artillery, Spitfire, war diary, World War Two

16 May 1942: Spitfires Claim 137 Bandits in First Week

16 May

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MILITARY SITUATION REPORT FOR WEEK ENDING 16 MAY 1942

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

MOST SECRET

Enemy attack on HMS Welshman on 10 May received severe trouncing. Effort thereafter greatly reduced. Mainly consisted of fighter sweeps in force. Some night raiding and E boat activity. Occasional use of fighter bombers with little effect. Daily scale enemy effort:

10 May 13 JU 88s; 35 JU 87s; 5 Cant; main target HMS Welshman
11 May 4 JU 88s; main targets Hal Far, Luqa
12 May 7 JU 88s; 3 Cants; main targets Hal Far, Ta Qali
13 May 15 JU 87s; main targets Hal Far, Luqa
14 May 10 JU 88s; main targets Luqa, Ta Qali
15 May 5 JU 88s; 3 Savoia 84; main target Ta Qali
16 May 3 JU 88s; 5 Cants; main target Ta Qali

Also as much as 100 fighters per day ME 109s, Macchi 202s, some Falco. Total of 31 night bombers in addition, bombs widespread. 1 JU 88, 4 Br 20s night raiders destroyed…

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

Aerial photos show steady decrease of German bombers in Sicily. Possibly accounted for by losses over Malta. Enemy aircraft casualties: Ack Ack destroyed 3 JU 88s, 4 JU 87s, 1 ME109; probably destroyed 1 JU 88; damaged 2 JU 88s, 2 ME 109s. By RAF destroyed 8 JU 88s, 9 JU 87s, 3 Cants, 4 Br 10s, 16 ME 109s, 7 Macchi 202s; probably destroyed 7 JU 88s, 10 JU 87s, 2 Cants, 1 Br 10, 18 ME 109s, 3 Macchi 202s; damaged 9 JU 88s, 10 JU 87s, 1 Cant, 26 ME 109s, 1 Macchi 202, 2 Savoia Marchetti 84. Total destroyed 55; probables 42; damaged 53.

Own Troops: HMS Welshman arrived 10 May with 82000 rounds bofors ammunition. Unloaded within 5 hours mainly by Royal Artillery personnel. Heavily attacked but reinforced fighters, heaviest ever barrage over ship and use of smoke screen surprised enemy. One stick [of bombs] within ten yards caused slight damage and casualties. Ack Ack ammunition restriction reimposed 12 May.

Western Infantry Brigade formed and started operating 13 May: located high ground near Rabat; role mobile reserve. Consists of 4 Buffs, 8 Kings Own, 1 Durham Light Infantry, Commander Lt Col Brittorous. Infantry working parties on aerodromes continue. Party for serving and maintaining Spitfires reduced to 250 men on account reduced scale attack but 1500 men now on pen building also. RE Bomb Disposal Section disposed of 55 UXBs totaling 11 tons.

Military and civil damage slight. Army casualties: 4 Other Ranks killed; 1 Officer 3 Other Ranks wounded. Conclusion reinforcement of fighters, improved organization based on experience and large scale assistance of Army to other services have enabled us to obtain local air superiority. Enemy now concentrating on wearing down fighter strength and bombing attacks almost stopped temporarily.

AIR RAIDS DAWN 16 MAY TO DAWN 17 MAY 1942

Weather Wind southerly; no cloud. Warm.

0610-0710 hrs Six Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali to intercept incoming enemy aircraft: no engagement.

0635 hrs Twelve ME 109s carry out a preliminary sweep to clear the way for one JU 88 to carry out reconnaissance.

0930 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled but land again at 1040 hrs without engagement.

1105 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali to intercept approaching ME 109s. S/Ldr Douglas-Hamilton damages one and P/O Northcott another. Sgt Johnson is shot up and crash-lands at Ta Qali.

1106 hrs Six Spitfires 601 Squadron are scrambled from Luqa to intercept enemy aircraft. P/O Hone and P/O Haggar claim one Cant 1007 bis probably destroyed. Sgt McConnell claims one Macchi 202 probably destroyed. One Spitfire is damaged; P/O Hagger is unhurt.

1111 hrs Three ME 109s drop bombs on Ta Qali. Six Macchi 202s and numerous ME 109s patrol to the west and south of the Island.

1152 hrs Six Spitfires 126 and 601 Squadrons are scrambled from Luqa to intercept another incoming formation of enemy aircraft. Fighters are unable to climb to the height of the bombers in time.

1200 hrs Five Cant 1007s approach from the west and drop bombs on the Ta Qali dispersal area and camp, killing two airmen and one soldier. One JU 88 carries out reconnaissance at the same time.

1252 hrs Raiders passed.

1350-1420 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled from Hal Far: no interceptions.

1459 hrs Six Spitfires 249 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali to intercept an enemy formation including one JU 88 with ten Macchi 202s and twenty ME 109s. F/L Buchanan destroys one Macchi 202; P/O Nash and P/O Plagis jointly destroy one ME 109 and Sgt De Namerede damages another.

1516 hrs Five Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled from Luqa to intercept. One Macchi 202 is damaged. F/Sgt Milner’s aircraft is hit by machine gun bullets and damaged; pilot unhurt.

1608 hrs One JU 88 with ten Macchi 202s and 20 ME 109s drops bombs on waste ground between Hal Far and Kalafrana.

1617 hrs Raiders passed.

1646-1732 hrs Two Spitfires 185 Squadron are airborne from Hal Far: no interceptions.

1820-1915 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron from Ta Qali are ordered to jump ME 109s escorting a flying boat 20 miles north of the Island. F/O Mitchell damages one ME 109. Sgt Hurst and F/Lt Sanders each probably destroy one ME 109.

1920-2105 hrs Seven Spitfires 601 Squadron are airborne from Luqa on interceptions: no engagement.

0245-0500 hrs P/O Daniel on patrol in a Beaufighter destroys three BR 20s.

0301-0445 hrs Eight bombers approach singly from the north and drop bombs on Hal Far, Safi, Ta Qali and Gozo. Eight bombs land in the dispersal area at the Safi end of Hal Far aerodrome, damaging one Spitfire starting a small fire burning oil in some of the pens.

0355 hrs Six bombs are dropped on the Safi strip and eight are dropped between Gudja and Luqa villages. One Beaufighter is airborne and destroys three BR 20s. Private Reeves, B Coy, 2nd Bn Devonshire Regt is patrolling on Hal Far aerodrome during the air raid and is wounded in the right arm.

Military casualties Corporal Timothy French, Royal Air Force, 126 Squadron; Corporal Donald Sussems, Royal Air Force, 126 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Nil.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SATURDAY 16 MAY 1942

AIR HQ Arrivals Three Wellingtons, two Hudsons, one CW 20 from Gibraltar; one Lodestar from Gambut. Departures Two Wellingtons to 108 MU.

LUQA 1033-1310 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance of Messina, Palermo, Bocca di Faleo, Trapani harbour and aerodrome, Baglio Rizzo, and Castel Vetrano.

TA QALI NAAFI opened at Boschetto Gardens.

1^st BN THE CHESHIRE REGIMENT Working parties (Luqa and Ospizio) as usual.

1^ST BN THE DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Working parties on Luqa aerodrome continued.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS No 3 Section, 173 Coy, RE moved from St Patricks to Lintorn Barracks and took over bakery job. Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 3; dealt with 2 (both 50kg).

1^ST BN THE HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT 3 Officers, 150 Other Ranks and 17 trucks working on Hal Far aerodrome.

2^ND BN THE ROYAL IRISH FUSILIERS Lord Gort complimented Lt Col Allen on 2nd Bn Royal Irish Fusiliers guard on San Anton Palace.

11^TH BN THE LANCASHIRE FUSILIERS Luqa working party as usual.

8^TH BN THE MANCHESTER REGIMENT One driver of B Coy was injured on Ta Qali and admitted to hospital. GOC Major General D M W Beak VC, DSO, MC expressed himself as being extremely pleased with the hard work carried out by all concerned on Ta Qali aerodrome last week. He wishes his appreciation of the work done to be made known to all ranks.

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Posted by maltagc70 on May 16, 2022 in 1942, May 1942

Tags: EOD, Malta, Royal Air Force, Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers Bomb Disposal, Spitfire, war diary, World War Two

12 May 1942: Luftwaffe Fight Back – 9 Spitfires Lost

12 May

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Enemy losses 5 destroyed, 3 probably destroyed, 7 damaged
RAF losses 7 Spitfires downed by enemy; 2 damaged on ground
Savoia-Marchetti SM 84

GOVERNOR & COMMANDER IN CHIEF PRAISES RAF AND ARTILLERY

“I congratulate all the fighting services on their magnificent team work over the week-end and I particularly congratulate the Royal Air Force and the Anti-Aircraft defences on their notable success. The Lufwaffe has seen that wounded Malta can hit back gamely.” Signed Gort, General.

BRITISH REPORTER LOST FOR WORDS AFTER TOUR OF MALTA

‘Words do not exist to convey the picture of what has happened in Malta as the result of air raids, so I have tried figures instead,’ writes a correspondent of the British United Press who has just completed a tour of the Island.

Valletta 1942 (NWMA Malta)

‘The following buildings have been destroyed or damaged: 15500 houses (this counts blocks of flats as one house), 70 churches, 18 convents and nunneries, 10 theatres, 22 schools, 8 hospitals, eight of the principal clubs, five of the principal banks, 48 other buildings of which many were world-famous. 75 per cent of the houses of Valletta have been destroyed or damaged and more than 55 per cent of the buildings in most populated areas have been so smashed that complete rebuilding will be necessary. There is hardly a hamlet on the Island that has not been hit.

The miracle is that the casualties are so low: 1104 killed, 1308 seriously injured, and 1299 slightly injured. This is due chiefly to underground shelters.’ British United Press, Sunday 10 May 1942

AIR RAIDS DAWN 12 MAY TO DAWN 13 MAY 1942

Weather No cloud; haze.

0605 hrs One JU 88 with an escort of ME 109s carries out reconnaissance.

0615-0720 hrs Three Spitfires 603 Squadron are scrambled to intercept reconnaissance formation: no interceptions.

0946 hrs Two ME109s are in the vicinity of the Island attempting to intercept a photo-reconnaissance Spitfire. Two Spitfires 126 and 601 Squadron are scrambled to intercept the ME 109s: no engagements; they land at 1030 hrs.

1052 hrs Three JU 88s with a fighter escort of over 35 ME 109s approach the Island from the south east and bomb Hal Far aerodrome.

1055-1207 hrs Eight Spitfires 601 and 126 Squadrons are airborne from Luqa and engage in combat with enemy aircraft off Kalafrana with ME 109s: no claims. One Spitfire is shot down; pilot unhurt. One Spitfire crash-lands; pilot unhurt. One bailer out is seen bearing 45 degrees off Grand Harbour.

1110 hrs Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron and eight Spitfires 603 Squadron attack JU 88s with fighter escort. F/O West probably destroys one JU 88 and damages another. P/O Linton damages one JU 88. Sgt Hesselyn damages one ME 109 and destroys another. P/O Mitchell is shot down in the sea and is missing. Sgt Brennan is slightly wounded. The remainder land at 1205 hrs.

1113 hrs Seven Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled from Hal Far to intercept incoming enemy aircraft. P/O Wigley damages one JU 88 and Sgt Yarra destroys one ME 109. Owing to a bad crosswind at Hal Far, six of the Spitfires land at Luqa at 1216 hrs, without damage or casualties.

1139 hrs Two JU 88s bomb Hal Far, causing no damage or casualties.

1140 hrs One JU 88 is engaged by three guns of 225 Light Ack Ack Battery: no claims.

Three ME 109s carry out a patrol.

1344 hrs Raiders passed.

1555 hrs Air raid alert; raid does not materialize.

1700 hrs A formation of three Italian Savoia Marchetti SM 84 bombers with fighter escort approaches the Island. Three Spitfires 603 Squadron, are scrambled from Ta Qali to intercept the incoming aircraft.

1705 hrs Twelve Spitfires 126, 601 and 185 Squadrons are airborne from Luqa. Sgt McConnell claims one Macchi 202 probable; Sgt Graves claims one JU 88 probable; Sgt Lusty claims one ME 109 damaged. Two Spitfires are lost in combat: P/O Graves is unhurt but Sgt Graysmark is killed. Sgt Bush receives gunshot wounds and his aircraft is damaged. P/O Baily’s aircraft is damaged but he is unhurt.

1715 hrs The Spitfires of 603 Squadron attack three SM 84 bombers high over Ta Qali as they attempt to bomb the airfield. F/O Mitchell and F/L Sanders claim one SM 84 and P/O Sherwood another.

1735 hrs Bombs are dropped on Ta Qali from a high level. Four parachutes are seen falling from the sky.

1745 hrs Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron from Ta Qali are airborne on patrol as three JU 88s with fighter escort approach to bomb the aerodrome. F/O Lee damages one ME 109. F/Sgt Williams damages one JU 88. One Spitfire is slightly damaged.

1749 hrs Six Hurricanes 229 Squadron are scrambled from Hal Far to intercept enemy aircraft. All fire guns but make no claims. Sgt Vidler lands at Luqa. The other aircraft land at Hal Far at 1850 hrs.

1815 hrs One section of 603 Squadron is waiting to take off from Ta Qali when the red flag goes up calling the operation to a halt. The aerodrome is bombed, damaging two Spitfires on the ground.

1830 hrs Two Spitfires 603 Squadron and three Spitfires 602 Squadron are airborne to intercept enemy aircraft: no engagement. One Spitfire 601 Squadron engages one ME 109: no claims.

1942 hrs All clear.

Night Four alerts are sounded for ten enemy aircraft. Bombs, including incendiaries, are dropped on Rinella, Salina Bay, St Pauls and Mellieha, and in the sea.

2159-2315 hrs One Beaufighter is airborne on patrol to intercept enemy aircraft: claims one JU 88 destroyed.

0100-0130 hrs One Beaufighter is airborne on patrol: no interceptions.

Military casualties Sergeant Charles Graysmark, Pilot, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 601 Squadron; Pilot Officer Herbert Mitchell, Royal New Zealand Air Force, 603 Squadron.

Civilian casualties Mosta Joseph Schembri, age 11.

Enemy casualties Aviere Scelto Francesco Carabellese, pilot; Primo Aviere Luigi Conte, Air Gunner; Averie Scelto Sergio Orsingher, crewman; Primo Aviere Gustavo Petrai, crewman; Sergente Eugenio Rivolta, crewman, Tenente Vinicio Vego Scocco, pilot; all shot down while crew of Savoia Marchetti S 84 aircraft of 14a Squadriglia, 4o Gruppo Autonomo, Regia Aeronautica.

OPERATIONS REPORTS TUESDAY 12 MAY 1942

ROYAL NAVY The Greek submarine Triton sailed for Alexandria at 0030 with passengers.

AIR HQ Arrivals Five Wellingtons, two Hudsons from Gibraltar. Departures Three Wellingtons to 108 MU; one Lodestar to Heliopolis. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire shot down in the sea off Malta; pilot safe. One Spitfire missing from operations; pilot missing. One Spitfire force-landed; pilot injured. One Spitfire shot down into the sea; pilot safe. One Spitfire crashed on landing; pilot uninjured. Two Spitfires collide on the runway during scramble; pilots uninjured. One Spitfire damaged by enemy aircraft; crashed on landing; pilot uninjured. ONe Spitfire shot down into the sea; pilot killed.

LUQA No bombs on the aerodrome.

TA QALI 1350-1430 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron and two Spitfires 603 Squadron from Ta Qali patrol along the Sicilian coast at 31000 feet.

4^th BN THE BUFFS (ROYAL EAST KENT) REGIMENT 2355 hrs 4th Bn The Buffs became embodied in Western Infantry Brigade.

1^st BN THE CHESHIRE REGIMENT Working parties four Officers and 100 Other Ranks for Luqa. A Coy party 1 Officer and 33 Other Ranks still working at the Ospizio.

1^ST BN THE DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Working parties on Luqa aerodrome continued.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Reported 3; dealt with 14 (2 x 500kg, 5 x 250kg, 4 x 50kg, 2 x 35kg, 1 Italian AP container).

1^ST BN THE HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT 17 trucks, 16 Officers and 297 Other Ranks building pens and filling craters on Hal Far aerodrome.

11^TH BN THE LANCASHIRE FUSILIERS Chief task of unit during this period is maintaining Luqa aerodrome.

8^TH BN THE MANCHESTER REGIMENT Unit supplied a working party of 150 men on Ta Qali aerodrome.

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Posted by maltagc70 on May 12, 2022 in 1942, May 1942, Uncategorized

Tags: bomb disposal, Malta, Royal Artillery, Royal Engineers, Royal New Zealand Air Force, Savoia Marchetti 84, war diary, World War Two

10 May 1942: The Battle of Malta – Fiercest Attack the World has Ever Known

10 May

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Enemy fighters destroyed/damaged by RAF 57
Enemy fighters destroyed by Ack Ack 8
JU 87 Stuka

THE FIERCEST AERIAL ATTACK THE WORLD HAS EVER KNOWN

Royal Navy Commander Edward Woolley was working that morning at Hamrun with Army Bomb Disposal Officer, Lt Thomas Blackwell, where they had just dealt with an unexploded G mine:

“Just as we left a most terrific barrage started right above us. It was so sudden we didn’t even have time to take cover, and perforce had to watch what was probably the fiercest and most concentrated aerial attack the world has ever known. It so happened that during the night a single ship had run the gauntlet to Malta and was being unloaded at top speed. Jerry sent over about a hundred Stukas to get it. Only the day before we had received reinforcements of Spitfires and the Gunners were given unlimited fire and my God did they use it. The air was literally black with barrage, planes and bits of planes. The Spits got so excited they followed the Stukas right through the barrage and we lost a couple. Jerry lost about seventy the highest day’s loss by a long way. The whole affair lasted about twenty minutes and we stood in the doorway to a house the whole time, never been so frightened in my life.” (1)

HMS Welshman

WELSHMAN SURVIVES TO DELIVER VITAL SUPPLIES

Minelayer HMS Welshman arrived in Grand Harbour today, bringing spare parts and 105 RAF maintenance crew for Spitfires to Malta as part of Operation Bowery. She was also loaded to the limit with 540 tons of stores including the supply for Malta of 15 tons of smoke-making compound, as well as 96 Rolls Royce Merlin aircraft engines, over 80,000 rounds of Bofors shells, plus medicines, tinned meat, powdered milk and dehydrated foodstuffs.

Welshman embarked on 7 May and, once at sea, was disguised as the French super destroyer Leopard and flying French colours to cover her passage through the Mediterranean. The disguise fooled French and German reconnaissance aircraft and Welshman completed her passage to Malta unchallenged, entering Grand Harbour early this morning having narrowly missed two mines on her way in.

Unloading HMS Welshman (IWM GM 1377)

“The RAF personnel. were soon on their way and then task of unloading began. I was on watch in the radio room below decks and at about 1000 hours the air raid warnings began. At 1100 hours the ship was shaken by three explosions — two bombs had landed on the quay, demolishing one of the cranes, and the third had landed in the dock, all within about 20 feet of the ship. Part of one of the cranes landed on the multiple pom-pom deck, killing one of the crew and putting the gun out of action… For the first time during the siege a smoke screen was laid over the Harbour and this may well have saved the Welshman” (2)

British Pathe News: Supplies for Malta CLICK HERE

AIR RAIDS DAWN 10 MAY TO DAWN 11 MAY 1942

Weather Wind southerly: no cloud – haze. Very hot.

0530 hrs HMS Welshman enters Grand Harbour. Immediately on berthing she puts up a smoke screen completely obscuring her from view.

0550-0700 hrs Four Spitfires 249 Squadron Ta Qali are airborne to intercept enemy aircraft: no engagement.

0555 hrs ME 109s carry out a patrol to the south east of the Island.

0720-0821 hrs Four Spitfires 185 Squadron are airborne from Hal Far on patrol duties over Grand Harbour.

0750 hrs Three Spitfires 601 Squadron are scrambled from Luqa on intercept patrol: no contact.

0752 hrs One JU 88 and ten ME 109s carry out reconnaissance over the Island. Sgt Boyd, 185 Squadron, fires at two ME 109s without result.

0820-0940 hrs Four Spitfires 603 Squadron are airborne from Ta Qali on patrol: nil report.

0951 hrs First reports of formations of enemy aircraft heading from the direction of Comiso. Four Spitfires 126 Squadron are scrambled from Luqa to intercept. They engage enemy fighters: two ME 109s are probably destroyed; one damaged.

Island on full alert: Lascaris Operations Room orders Ground Observers to readiness and Anti-Aircraft guns to alert status. 19 Spitfires 601 and 126 Squadrons are scrambled from Luqa to intercept enemy aircraft.

First visual reports of incoming enemy raiders from observation posts on Gozo and Marfa Ridge.

Anti-aircraft guns open barrages on incoming aircraft.

1041 hrs Twenty JU 87s and eight JU 88s escorted by large numbers of ME 109s head for Grand Harbour and attempt to attack shipping through the smoke screen. They are met by an intense Ack Ack barrage over the harbour and large numbers of Spitfires attacking from above – all operating through the smoke and defensive barrage. Observers describe enemy bombing as ‘very inaccurate’.

1048 hrs Five Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled from Ta Qali to intercept enemy aircraft. A number of JU 87s and JU 88s are attacked in the Grand Harbour area. Sgt Boyd probably destroys one JU 88 and damages another. Sgt Dodd destroys one JU 87. F/Lt Lawrence probably destroys one JU 88. SGt Broad probably destroys one JU 88 and P/O McKay probably destroys one JU 88.

Spitfires from Luqa 126 and 601 Squadrons claim two JU 87s,and one JU 88 destroyed; two JU 87s and two JU 88s probably destroyed; two JU 87s and two JU 88s damaged.

1050 hrs Seven Spitfires 603 Squadron and five Spitfires 249 Squadron are scrambled from Ta Qali and intercept fifteen JU 87s. F/Sgt Hurst destroys one JU 87 and damages another. F/Lt Douglas probably destroys one and damages another. F/O Holland damages three ME 109s. P/O Nash destroys one JU 87 and probably destroys another. F/Lt Buchanan damages one JU 87, F/O Lee probably destroys one, Sgt Brennan destroys one and damages another. P/O Plagis destroys one JU 87 and damages one ME 109.

One Spitfire, one JU 88 and one JU 87 are seen to crash in the Grand Harbour area.

1115 hrs Spitfires return to Luqa: P/O Briggs fails to return to base.

1138 hrs Raiders passed.

1200 hrs One JU 88 and two ME 109s carry out reconnaissance.

1330 hrs Unloading of Welshman is complete.

1358 hrs ME 109s carry out a fighter sweep across the Island.

1430 hrs Reports come in of a formation of 7 JU 88 bombs with an escort of 30 ME 109 fighters approaching the Island. 12 Spitfires 126 and 601 Squadrons from Luqa and eight Spitfires 249 Squadron, Ta Qali are scrambled to intercept.

1445 hrs Approaching Grand Harbour the enemy raiders are attacked by Spitfires and Heavy Ack Ack fire. Spitfires 126 and 601 Squadron from Luqa claim two ME 109s probably destroyed, one damaged. Four Spitfires are damaged; pilots unhurt.

Seven JU 88s drop bombs on Grand Harbour. The smoke screen is still in place, obscuring HMS Welshman from view and hampering visibility. Bombs damage a gun mounting store, smithery and boiler house in the Dockyard. Three bombs land two hundred yards north west of Hompesch.

1453 hrs Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron dive on the seven JU 88s as they turn away from releasing their bombs. S/Ldr Grant destroys one; F/Sgt Hesselyn probably destroys one ME 109. One JU 88 is seen to crash in the Zabbar area.

1500-1520 hrs Numerous ME 109s at 300-1000 feet are engaged by guns of 225 Light Ack Ack Battery (LAA).

1555 hrs Raiders passed.

1740 hrs A formation of Italian bombers with fighter escort totalling 35 aircraft is reported heading for the Island. 10 Spitfires are scrambled from Luqa to intercept enemy aircraft.

Five Cant 1007bis escorted by fighters drop bombs to the east of Grand Harbour. The smoke screen is still in place and Harbour gunners put up a very heavy anti-aircraft barrage. Spitfires from Luqa claim two Cant 1007 and one Macchi 202 destroyed; one Cant 1007 damaged.

1810 hrs Another large formation of enemy aircraft approaches, including 16 JU 87 Stukas and large numbers of ME 109 fighters.

1814 hrs Seven Spitfires 185 Squadron are scrambled from Hal Far to intercept the enemy aircraft.

1835 hrs The JU 87s attack Grand Harbour amid a smoke screen and very heavy anti-aircraft barrage. Bombing is described as ‘very wild’. Eight Spitfires 249 Squadron and ten Spitfires 603 Squadron from Ta Qali join the Spitfires of 185 Squadron and engage the JU 87s. Ta Qali fighter F/O West damages one ME 109; P.O Watts destroys one ME 109. P/O Hetherington probably destroys one ME 109; F/Lt Douglas and P.O Forster between them probably destroy one JU 87. F/Lt Douglas damages another. F/O Mitchell destroys one JU 87 and damages another, and probably destroys one ME 109. Sgt Broad and Sgt Dodd, 185 Squadron each damage a ME 109.

1850 hrs Eight Spitfires are scrambled from Luqa to intercept enemy aircraft. One ME 109 is destroyed and one probably destroyed; one JU 87 is damaged.

One JU 88 carries out reconnaissance over the Island.

1905 hrs Six guns of 225 LAA engage two ME 109s: no claims.

1920-2012 hrs Seven Hurricanes 229 Squadron from Hal Far are scrambled to escort the air/sea rescue high speed launch.

1950 hrs Raiders passed. Malta fighters land.

2004 hrs Eight enemy aircraft are reported carrying out a search to the north of the Island.

2100 hrs Another fire breaks out in a cave at Ta Qali, destroying 7000 gallons of paraffin and a large amount of oil. Three Maltese airmen are placed under arrest. The Station Commander announces that a gibbet has been erected on the road leading to the caves as a warning to anyone considering sabotage.

2130 hrs HMS Welshman leaves Grand Harbour.

Night Two alerts for two enemy aircraft. Bombs are dropped on Gozo and in the Marsaxlokk area.

2359-0151 hrs One Beaufighter airborne from Luqa on patrol chases en enemy bomber but loses contact.

0205-0308 hrs One Beaufighter airborne from Luqa to locate enemy forces observes suspected activity 10 miles north of C San Dimitri. He sees a flashing light is seen which does not seem to be operating in any sequence to suggest a message. Four units are located: presumed to be enemy vessels.

Military casualties Able Seaman Arthur Lamb, HMS Welshman; Pilot Officer George Briggs, Pilot Officer, Royal Australian Air Force; Sergeant Samuel Conlon, 1st Battalion, Cheshire Regiment; Joseph Brownrigg, Artificer, Malta Auxilliary Corps, attached Royal Army Service Corps; Sapper Francis Grech, Royal Engineers, Malta Territorial Force; Bombardier Albert Mengham, 7th Heavy Ack Ack (HAA) Regiment, Royal Artillery; Gunner Michael Sammut, 11 HAA Regiment, Royal Malta Artillery; Private Stephen Scholey, 1st Battalion, Cheshire Regiment.

Civilian casualties Nil

Enemy casualties Unteroffizier, Christian Appmann, III StG 3, pilot of JU 87 Stuka; Unteroffizier Walter Kern KERN, III StG 3, gunner of JU 87; Unteroffizier Gerhard Nikolia, III StG 3, Pilot of JU 87; Unteroffizier Walter Rauer, III StG 3, wireless operator of JU 87; Unteroffizier Heinrich Schaefer, III StG 3, Gunner of a JU 87. Unteroffizier Walter RAstinnes, III StG 3, pilot of JU 87 crashed, survived and was taken prisoner.

Primo Aviere Antonio Braschi, crewman of Cant-Z.1007; Sottotenente Salvatore de Maria, crewman of a Cant-Z.1007; Aviere Scelto Celestino Giovannini, crewman of a Cant-Z.1007; Primo Aviere Vittorio Rey, crewman of a Cant-Z.1007; Tenente Domenico Robilotta, crewman of a Cant-Z.1007; Aviere Scelto Giovanni Zancan, crewman of a Cant-Z.1007.

OPERATIONS REPORTS SUNDAY 10 MAY 1942

ROYAL NAVY Submarine P35 sailed. Greek submarine Triton arrived Marsaxlokk. Considerable enemy air activity during the night, and it is suspected that a number of mines were laid off Grand Harbour. Beryl and Trusty Star were in action with E boats which were driven off to the north east. Beryl observed the tracks of three torpedoes.

AIR HQ Arrivals One Wellington, one Hudson from Gibraltar. Aircraft casualties One Spitfire straffed by ME 109s when landing; pilot uninjured. One Hurricane taxied into a bomb crater. One Spitfire faield to return from operations: pilot missing. One Spitfire is hit by Ack Ack fire; pilot uninjured. One Spitfire is shot down over the sea off Malta; pilot safe.

LUQA 0957-1156 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance Sicilian aerodromes. 0950-1330 hrs One Spitfire photo-reconnaissance of the Tripoli coast. 1535-1745 hrs One Spitfire on special search Messina.

TA QALI 0400 hrs reveille; all on the spot 0530 hrs. New arrivals at Ta Qali: one Sergeant and 28 Others. The organisation on Ta Qali aerodrome is excellent and military personnel on the aerodrome do good work. One crew in pen changed delivery aircraft into operational one in 7 1/2 minutes. Orderly Room staff manning emergency communications and erecting tents for new pilots.

4^th BN THE BUFFS (ROYAL EAST KENT) REGIMENT Working party of 7 Officers and 150 Other Ranks for bomb-crater filling on Ta Qali aerodrome. Working party of 1 Officer and 20 Other Ranks for filling ammunition belts at Ta Qali aerodrome.

1^st BN THE CHESHIRE REGIMENT 50 men B Company to stand by at Corradino to keep roads open in and around the Dockyard. Cruiser HMS Welshman brought in stores. Same numbers as yesterday on Luqa. B Company party standing by volunteered to help unolad the cruiser. Unloading finished by mid-day.

1^st BN THE DORSETSHIRE REGIMENT 1115 hrs One JU 87 attacking Grand Harbour is engaged by HQ: no claims.

1^ST BN THE DURHAM LIGHT INFANTRY Working parties on Luqa aerodrome continued.

FORTRESS ROYAL ENGINEERS Bomb Disposal UXB Dealt with 8 (4 x 250kg, 4 x 50kg).

1^ST BN THE HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT 12 Officers and 205 Other Ranks building pens and filling craters on Hal Far aerodrome.

8^TH BN THE KINGS OWN ROYAL REGIMENT Ack Ack light machine guns 8th Bn Kings Own Royal Regt engage low-flying ME 109s. Hits observed on one which is last seen going out to sea, smoking badly.

11^TH BN THE LANCASHIRE FUSILIERS Luqa working parties continued.

8^TH BN THE MANCHESTER REGIMENT The unit supplied 10 trucks and drivers for Ta Qali.

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Posted by maltagc70 on May 10, 2022 in 1942, May 1942

Tags: Cheshire Regiment, Malta, RAF, Royal Artillery, Royal Australian Air Force, Spitfire, war diary, Welshman, World War Two

Tag Archives: Royal Artillery

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

28 June 1942: Soldiers Train as Dockers

29 June 1942: Malta Fighters Chase Enemy Back to Sicily

30 June 1942: Clamp Down on Black Marketeers

1 July 1942: Malta Bombers Delay Rommel’s Convoy

2 July 1942: Fire bombing of Boschetto Camp Kills 7; Injures 11

3 July 1942: On the Trail of a Convoy

4 July 1942: Morale Remains High Says Governor

21 June 1942: Rations Too Low for Physical Labour

22 June 1942: Raids Increase – Crops at Risk

23 June 1942: Malta Pilots Halt Enemy Convoy

24 June 1942: Solo Attacker Targets Enemy Convoy

25 June 1942: Gunners Help Spitfires in Attack

26 June 1942: Italians Attempt Daylight Raid

27 June 1942: Rations Cut Below Healthy Levels

6 June 1942

5 June 1942

4 June 1942

3 June 1942

2 June 1942: Malta Counts the Cost

1 June 1942

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