Rain in
the morning, ceasing towards the afternoon, then came down in torrents
around 16:30 hours. F/L R.G. Crosby and F/O R.H. Laurence laid the
foundation for the new pilots hut while F/O J. Roberts formulated
plans for the fireplace. In our estimation, our dispersal for the
aircraft is tops and the pilots crew room will be likewise when
erected. The airmen have a frame crew room now which is quite good and
a scrounge will provide a few more games and amusements to make life
more interesting here.
Provision
has been made now for corresponding with the civil populace of France
and Belgium. Another notification has been received from 83 Group HQ.
emphasizing the fact that the purchase of certain foodstuffs, clothing
and spirits is restricted in France, Belgium and Netherlands. The food
shortage and severe rationing has been notied here in Eindhoven.
Personnel proceeding to England are being subject to a check by
Customs and have been for the past few weeks. Another point of
interest is the inaugeration of 48 hour passes in Paris for airmen,
exclusive of travelling tome and for which transport is being supplied
by 309 S.A.T Column. However, the Squadron is allotted only one pass
per week.
S/L
Fiset's posting instructions were received sanctioning leave to Canada
effective immediately before doing a non-operational tour but he
is hanging on for the time being and is assisting the Wing leader who
has assumed temporary command of the Airfield in the absence of
the Airfield Commander who is in Italy at present. Another pilot was
posted in from 83 GSU boosting our strength to 24 pilots. He is
R.74061 F/S Wright W.A. of Pembroke, Ontario, Canada, and is the first
F/Sgt ever to be on the strength of 439. the only flying activity
consisted of a sector recce by four aircraft to familiarize with this
airfield and surrounding countrey. of our 17 aircraft, all our (are)
serviceable except one
Tiger
Squadron