[Routine Order] SQUADRON ROUTINE ORDERS No. 76/43. cont'd. 21 SQUADRON. S.A.A.F. C.M.F.

Friday, 24 September 1943 Other

Document

SQUADRON ROUTINE ORDERS No. 76/43. cont'd. 21 SQUADRON. S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
267.
5. i. (c) The Mobile Defence Sections will go to Squadron Ops. Tent and await instructions from Wing Operations.
(d) All Air Gunners and W. Op. Air Gunners will proceed to their respective aircraft. The top gunners mounting their guns and the W. Op. air gunners the V.G.O.S. in strategical manner in front of the aircraft
(e) All other personnel, including Officers, not detailed in any of the above Sections, will go to the Sergeants Mess and wait for further instructions. They will arm themselves with any fire-arm available.
(f) The Transport Officer will have all available M.T. standing by with Drivers at the M.T. Section. Three trucks will be detailed to proceed to the Ops. Tent for use of the three mobile sections.
ii. Airborne Troops:
Upon the sounding of the 'Airborne Troop Alarm' the same action will be taken as in Para. 5. above, except that all M.T. vehicles not required for Defence Sections will be driven into positions of obstruction on the runway.
N.B. It is emphasized that the utmost speed is required in dealing with Paratroop or Airborne Troop attacks.
(Sgd) J.F. Britz
Lt. Col.
Officer Commanding, 21 Squadron. S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
AIRCRAFT AND CREW LIST.
LT BOOYSE [handwritten at top right]
474X LT/COL BRITZ DFC P/O SMALLMAN 2/LT HARRISON 2/LT PICKUP
426J LT FROST LT NEL F/SGT CARTER A/SGT ALLEN
341L LT WILLMOTT LT BORCHERDS F/SGT LOOTS F/SGT WALBRIDGE
586B CAPT SAUNDERS LT POTGIETER A/SGT EARP-JONES
467D LT LONGMORE LT KENDALL F/SGT THEUNISSEN A/SGT MACKAY
545A LT MURMAN LT WALTERS F/SGT ODENDAAL A/SGT STEWART
240O CAPT SMIT LT KAY 2/LT PURDON A/SGT SCHOOMBIE
181T LT BENNETT LT HARLE F/SGT STRYDOM P/O GILDEN
951YY MAJOR COULL LT ROSE F. F/SGT PERKINS F/SGT VAN ROOYEN
445U LT HARGRAVE LT REES F/SGT JENSEN F/SGT VALENTINE
356Z LT RICHARDS LT DE CONNICK F/SGT ROBBERTSE A/SGT McCRINDLE
383W LT GREDER LT MCARAVEY F/SGT GREYLING 2/LT GROENEWALD

Transcriber's Notes

Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* S.A.A.F.: South African Air Force.
* C.M.F.: Central Mediterranean Force.
* Ops.: Operations.
* W. Op.: Wireless Operator.
* V.G.O.S.: Vickers Gas Operated (machine guns).
* M.T.: Motor Transport.
* Para.: Paragraph.
* N.B.: Nota Bene (Latin for "note well").
* Lt. Col.: Lieutenant Colonel.
* Individuals Mentioned:
* Lieutenant Colonel J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: Jacobus "Jack" Frederik Britz was the Officer Commanding (O.C.) of No. 21 Squadron S.A.A.F. during the Italian campaign. A highly respected leader, he was known for personally leading his crews on hazardous nighttime "interdiction" bombing missions.
* Location and Modern Geography:
* Cuticchi, Sicily: On the date of this order (September 24, 1943), No. 21 Squadron was operating from the Cuticchi landing ground in the Catania plain.
* This area is now a fertile agricultural region near the modern-day Sigonella Naval Air Station. The temporary wartime airstrips have long since reverted to farmland.
* Historical Context:
* Airfield Defence: These orders reflect a state of high alert for the squadron's ground echelon in Sicily. While the Martin Baltimore bombers were striking German supply lines on the Italian mainland following Operation Avalanche (the Salerno landings on September 9), there was an acute fear of German Fallschirmjäger (paratroops) launching counter-strikes against Allied airbases.
* Improvised Tactics: The directive to use motor transport as "obstruction on the runway" and for unassigned personnel to "arm themselves with any fire-arm available" highlights the improvised nature of airfield security in the Mediterranean theater. Every member of the squadron, including administrative staff, was integrated into a combat role for base defense.
* The V.G.O. Gun: The order for Wireless Operators to mount V.G.O.S. (Vickers Gas Operated) machine guns in front of the aircraft shows how specialized aerial weaponry was adapted for ground defense to provide strategical fire support during an attack.

15
The date written in the header of the target image to identify it is 27th September, 1943.
Transcription: 276-2__15.jpg
SQUADRON ROUTINE ORDERS. No. 77/43. 21 SQUADRON. S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
By
Lt. Col. J.F. Britz. D.F.C.
Officer Commanding.
21 Squadron. S.A.A.F.
C. M. F.
27th September, 1943.
COURT OF INQUIRY
Para. 268.
A Court of Inquiry, constituted as under, will assemble at a time and place to be decided by the President, to enquire into and report upon the circumstances surrounding the destruction of a 180 lbs. Tent and Injuries sustained by No. N29183 Cpl. RAMAHELA, Daniel, by fire on the 17th September, 1943. The Court will attach blame, if any.
CONSTITUTION.
PRESIDENT. Lieut. G. H. Askew.
MEMBER. W.O.11. J.H.E. Schoeman.
WITNESSES.
The Adjutant No. 21 Squadron S.A.A.F. will warn all witnesses to attend and will arrange for the production of relative documents.
FINDING.
The Court will make a finding.
PROCEEDINGS.
Proceedings will be delivered to the Officer Commanding. No. 21 Squadron. S.A.A.F. for disposal.
(Sgd) [Signature] Capt.
Adjutant. No. 21 Squadron. S.A.A.F.
Transcriber's Notes
Expanded Abbreviations
* S.A.A.F.: South African Air Force
* C.M.F.: Central Mediterranean Force
* Lt. Col.: Lieutenant Colonel
* D.F.C.: Distinguished Flying Cross
* Para.: Paragraph
* lbs.: Pounds
* No.: Number
* Cpl.: Corporal
* Lieut.: Lieutenant
* W.O.11.: Warrant Officer Class II
* Sgd: Signed
* Capt.: Captain
Observations on Individuals
* Lt. Col. J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: Jacobus "Jack" Frederik Britz was the Officer Commanding (OC) of No. 21 Squadron S.A.A.F. during the Italian campaign. He was a highly regarded leader who personally led numerous hazardous nighttime bombing missions during this theater of operations.
* Cpl. Daniel Ramahela (No. N29183): A Corporal whose injuries and the associated loss of a tent due to fire on September 17, 1943, necessitated this formal inquiry. The "N" prefix in his service number identifies him as a member of the Native Military Corps (N.M.C.), a non-combatant branch of the South African Union Defence Force composed of Black South African soldiers who provided essential support, guard, and logistics duties.
* Lieut. G. H. Askew: Appointed as President of this Court of Inquiry. He is consistently listed in squadron records as a pilot and captain of aircraft (such as No. 206J) during operational interdiction sorties in Italy.
* W.O.II J.H.E. Schoeman: Serving as the member of the court. He appears on the squadron's nominal roll as a Warrant Officer Class II serving as Clerk, General Duties. His administrative expertise would have been vital for the formal documentation of the inquiry's findings.
Location and Historical Context
* Location: On September 27, 1943, No. 21 Squadron was operating from the Cuticchi landing ground in the Catania plain of Sicily. This forward base was crucial for sustaining light bomber operations against German forces on the Italian mainland.
* Theater Context: This order was issued during the critical aftermath of Operation Avalanche (the Allied invasion of Salerno on September 9, 1943). While the squadron's Martin Baltimore bombers were striking German supply lines in Italy, the ground echelons in Sicily maintained disciplinary and administrative standards.
* Hazard of Fire: The destruction of a "180 lbs. Tent" by fire was a serious logistical matter in a forward area. Previous squadron orders had issued stern warnings regarding the "grave danger" of grass fires caused by wheat stubble and cigarette sparks in the dry Sicilian summer.
* Administrative Accountability: Courts of Inquiry were mandatory military procedures to investigate non-combat injuries and significant property loss. This ensured that the circumstances—and potentially negligence—were formally recorded for medical and logistical accountability.

16
The provided document is Squadron Routine Order No. 80/43 for No. 21 Squadron, South African Air Force (SAAF). The date written in the header to verify the correct image is 1st October, 1943.
Transcription of 276-2__16.jpg
SQUADRON ROUTINE ORDERS No. 80/43 21 SQUADRON. S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
By
LT. COL. J.F. BRITZ. D.F.C.
Officer Commanding.
21 Squadron. S.A.A.F.
C. M. F.
1st October, 1943.
Para. 271 MESSAGES OF CONGRATULATION.
The following messages of congratulation exchanged between Chiefs of Staff are published for the information of all concerned:-
From General Alexander to General Spaatz. 15 Army Groups-
"I have just returned from an extensive tour of the Fifth Army front during which I talked with the Army and many subordinate commanders, their staffs and other ranks. General CLARK has asked me to convey to you and to the officers and men of the North West African Air Force whom you command, the sincere thanks and appreciation of Fifth Army for the magnificent air support which was given them. It has greatly heartened the ground forces and has contributed much to the success of their operations. All were most enthusiastic in their acclaim of the close and continuous support which has been given them by the Air Force. To the foregoing I should like to add my own appreciation and admiration of a task well done. Not only have your tremendous air attacks added greatly to the morale of the ground and naval forces but, in addition, have inflicted on the enemy losses in men and equipment. They have seriously interfered with his movements, interrupted his communications and prevented his concentration of the necessary forces to launch large scale attacks. You have contributed immeasurably to the success of our operations and to the final victory which will inevitably follow".
From General Spaatz to General Alexander.-
"Your letter of September 17 is most deeply appreciated. The knowledge that the effect of their efforts is fully realised will be an inspiration to them to increase their effectiveness in our future joint operations".
From General Spaatz to Air Marshal Sir Arthur Coningham:-
"Never before have the Air Forces been given such sincere recognition by an Army commander. Please add my appreciation for the splendidly executed operations of the Tactical Air Force which have played such a significant role in this campaign".
From Air Commodore Sinclair T.A.F. to Colonel Durrant. 3 (S.A.) Wing.-
"Air Marshal Coningham has asked me to add from him an expression of his sincerest admiration for the fighting and work of our air forces during the recent weeks He states that their very great success, which is so well deserved has been duly recognised by all Services. I would like to take this opportunity of sending you my personal thanks for the very hard work which has been sustained over such a considerable period of time by yourself, your aircrew and all ground personnel, and which has resulted in such excellent support being provided".
(Sgd) J.F. Britz
Lt. Col.
Officer Commanding, 21 Squadron. S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
Transcriber’s Notes
Expanded Abbreviations
* S.A.A.F.: South African Air Force
* C.M.F.: Central Mediterranean Force
* LT. COL.: Lieutenant Colonel
* D.F.C.: Distinguished Flying Cross
* T.A.F.: Tactical Air Force
* S.A.: South African
* Sgd: Signed
Observations on Individuals Mentioned
* Lieutenant Colonel J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: Jacobus "Jack" Frederik Britz was the Officer Commanding (O.C.) of No. 21 Squadron S.A.A.F.. He was a highly regarded leader, noted for personally leading his crews on hazardous nighttime "interdiction" bombing missions during the Italian campaign.
* General Harold Alexander: At this time, Alexander was the Commander-in-Chief of 15th Army Group, overseeing the Allied ground forces in the Mediterranean theater.
* General Carl "Tooey" Spaatz: Commander of the Northwest African Air Forces (NAAF).
* General Mark Clark: Commander of the United States Fifth Army, which spearheaded the Allied invasion of the Italian mainland.
* Air Marshal Sir Arthur Coningham: A key figure in the development of tactical air support and commander of the Northwest African Tactical Air Force (NATAF).
* Colonel J.T. Durrant: Officer Commanding No. 3 (S.A.) Wing, which comprised the South African squadrons 12, 21, and 24.
Location and Modern Geography
* Cuticchi, Sicily: While not explicitly stated in this specific order, concurrent records from the preceding weeks place No. 21 Squadron at the Cuticchi landing ground in the Catania plain of Sicily.
* Catania Plain: This area today remains a fertile agricultural region of Sicily, located near the modern Sigonella Naval Air Station. The wartime temporary airstrips have largely reverted to farmland.
Historical Context
* The Invasion of Italy: These messages of congratulation follow the critical first weeks of Operation Avalanche (the Allied landings at Salerno on September 9, 1943).
* Magnificent Air Support: General Alexander's letter highlights the pivotal role of tactical air power in heartening ground forces and disrupting German supply lines and communications. The Martin Baltimore bombers of No. 21 Squadron were essential in these "interdiction" efforts, particularly at night.
* Joint Operations: The exchange underscores the maturing of "joint operations" between land and air forces, a doctrine that Coningham and Alexander helped refine in the Mediterranean to achieve victory against Axis forces.
* The "Recent Weeks": The "very hard work" mentioned by Air Commodore Sinclair refers to the intense operational tempo sustained by crews and ground staff as they supported the fragile Salerno beachhead and prepared for the rapid advance toward Rome.

17
Verification: The date written in the 'Date' column of the Sortie Report is 25/10/43.
Transcription: 276-2__17.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT (Part A.)
Sortie No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 422
Date. 25/10/43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores (4 Mk.3, 3 Mk.3A, 5 Mk.4)
Aircraft No. See list
Aircraft Letter.
Captain. LT/COL BRITZ DFC
Crew. P/O SMALLMAN
Other a/c followed on course
Time Up. 1340 A Hrs 1st A/C
Time Down. 1545 A Hrs last a/c
Total Time. 24.00 Hrs
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA L/G
Type of Cloud. St.Cu over mtns. Cu over target
Amount of Cloud. 4/10 4/10
Base of Cloud. 8000' 3500' tops 6000'
Visibility. Fair with glare on water
General Weather. Good
Map or Chart Reference. ITALY 1:250,000 Sheets 30, 36, 37
Target or Duty. RD BRIDGE AT C4201
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| | BASE | A/B |
| 5000 | | S/c RV point. 4 Spitfires. |
| 8000 | RV PT | S/c TERMOLI |
| 8000 | TERMOLI | S/c TARGET |
| 10000 | TARGET | Bombed |
| | | S/c TERMOLI |
| 8000 | TERMOLI | S/c BASE |
| 3000 | BASE | |
| | | Landed |
| | | Last a/c Landed |
(Sgd) W. Thompson Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, SAAF
Transcriber’s Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* LT/COL: Lieutenant Colonel.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* P/O: Pilot Officer.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* St.Cu / Cu: Stratocumulus / Cumulus cloud types.
* RD BRIDGE: Road Bridge.
* A/B: Airborne.
* RV PT: Rendezvous Point.
* S/c: Steered course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lt. Col. J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: The Commanding Officer of 21 Squadron, Britz was a highly respected leader who continued to fly operational sorties personally even while commanding the unit.
* P/O Smallman: Serving as crew for the CO during this mission.
* Capt. W. Thompson: The Senior Intelligence Officer (SIO) for 21 Squadron, responsible for debriefing crews and compiling these tactical reports.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Tortorella Landing Ground: Part of the massive Foggia Airfield Complex in Southern Italy. Captured by the Allies in late September 1943, it became a major base for the Desert Air Force and the 15th Air Force.
* Termoli: A strategic port city on the Adriatic coast used here as a navigational waypoint. It had been the site of a fierce commando landing and tank battle earlier in October.
* Operational Context: By October 25, 1943, the Allied advance in Italy was slowing as they encountered the Bernhardt Line and the Gustav Line. No. 21 Squadron, flying Martin Baltimore light bombers, was tasked with tactical interdiction—destroying the bridges and infrastructure needed by the Germans to move reinforcements and supplies to the front.
* Fighter Escort: The narrative note "4 Spitfires" at the RV point highlights the necessity of close air support even for medium-altitude bombing runs, as the Luftwaffe remained a threat over central Italy.

18
Verification: This document is Part B of the Sortie Report initiated in Target File 276-2__17.jpg. While it does not have a formal 'Date' column on this side, it is verified as the reverse of the report dated 25/10/43.
Transcription: 276-2__18.jpg
BA: RD BRIDGE AT C4201
BB: 1510 A Hrs
BC: Medium level bombing; 22 x 500 MC 47 Det 27 Pistol
33 x 250 GP do do
2 x 500 MC 47 Det 27 Pistol) jettisoned 3-4 miles out to sea-
3 x 250 GP do do ) faulty inter-comm.
BD: Glare on water caused leaders box to run up on RR bridge, saw too late incorrect target. Bombs fell among trees (C455035) No. 2 box attempted to reach correct target - turn too tight and bombs overshot 1/4 mile SE target among buildings.
BE: NIL
BF: NIL
BG: Obliques of bomb bursts
BH: Shelling seen at C6685
2 MET, otherwise NMS
Grey smoke seen drifting over FOSSACESIA (3904)
AIRCRAFT AND CREW LIST.
474X LT/COL BRITZ DFC P/O SMALLMAN 2/LTs HARRISON & PICKUP
181T LT BENNETT LT HARLE F/SGT STRYDOM SGT JENKINSON
951YY MAJOR COULL LT ROSE F. F/SGTs PERKINS & VAN ROOYEN
445V CAPT SMIT LT KAY 2/LT PURDON SGT SCHOOMBIE
240O CAPT DUGMORE LT MASTERS F/SGTs MAASDORP & ROGERS
181Y CAPT DIEU P/O EDMEADES F/SGT OSWALD SGT BREEDT
545A MAJOR ORD LT HODGES F/SGTs WALKER & DEVENISH
341L LT WILLMOTT LT BORCHERDS F/SGTs LOOTS & WALBRIDGE
426J LT MURMAN LT WALTERS F/SGT ODENDAAL SGT STEWART
586B CAPT SAUNDERS LT BOOYSE F/SGT GELDENHUYS SGT EARP-JONES
916K LT FROST LT HORWITZ F/SGT CARTER SGT ALLAN
467D LT LONGMORE LT KENDAL F/SGT THEUNISSEN SGT MACKAY
Transcriber’s Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* BA / BB / BC / BD / BE / BF / BG / BH: Standardized reporting codes for target, time, weaponry, narrative, enemy opposition, own losses, photography, and general observations.
* RD BRIDGE: Road Bridge.
* MC / GP: Medium Capacity / General Purpose (bomb types).
* Det / Pistol: Detonator and Pistol (fusing mechanism).
* RR bridge: Railroad bridge.
* MET: Motor Enemy Transport.
* NMS: No Movements Seen.
* LT/COL / LT / MAJOR / P/O / 2/LT / F/SGT / SGT: Lieutenant Colonel, Lieutenant, Major, Pilot Officer, Second Lieutenant, Flight Sergeant, Sergeant.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lt. Col. J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: As the Commanding Officer of 21 Squadron, Britz led this 12-aircraft formation personally. The report notes that "glare on water" caused the leaders (his box) to misidentify the target initially.
* Capt. Saunders: Mentioned in previous orders, he is seen here as the captain of aircraft 586B.
* F/Sgt Geldenhuys: A member of Saunders' crew. He appears in the nominal rolls from September 1943 as a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Fossacesia: A town on the Adriatic coast of Italy. At the time of this mission (October 25, 1943), Fossacesia was a strongpoint on the German Bernhardt Line (also known as the Reinhard Line). The "grey smoke" observed was likely the result of Allied artillery or naval bombardment as the Eighth Army prepared for the eventual assault on the Sangro River.
* Tactical Failure: The narrative reveals the difficulties of tactical bombing in the Italian theater. Sun glare off the Adriatic sea caused the lead section to strike a railroad bridge instead of the intended road bridge at grid C4201. The second section attempted to correct the course, but a "turn too tight" led to an overshoot, with bombs hitting buildings southeast of the target.
* Equipment Issues: The jettisoning of bombs due to "faulty inter-comm" highlights the technical strain on 21 Squadron's Martin Baltimore aircraft during high-tempo operations. Without reliable communication between the pilot and the bomb-aimer, accurate delivery was impossible, requiring a safe jettison at sea.

19
The date written in the 'Date' column of the Sortie Report is 26/10/43.
Transcription: 276-2__19.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT (Part A.)
Sortie No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 423
Date. 26/10/43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores (1 Mk.3, 5 Mk.3A, 6 Mk.4)
Aircraft No. See list
Aircraft Letter.
Captain. MAJOR STUART
Crew. LT PAWSON
Other a/c followed on course
Time Up. 0900 A Hrs 1st A/C
Time Down. 1057 A Hrs last A/C
Total Time. 21.00 Hours
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA L/G
Type of Cloud. St.Cu (BORANO - 2 miles EAST of target. Broken Cu to NW)
Amount of Cloud. 10/10
Base of Cloud. 10,000' Tops
Visibility. Good
General Weather. Fair
Map or Chart Reference. ITALY 1:250,000 Sheets 35, 36, 37. ITALY 1:100,000 Sheets 161, 162.
Target or Duty. AMMO & STORES AREA - H274278 - 282271 - 282274
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| | Base | airborne |
| 6000 | FOGGIA | Picked up fighters |
| 8000 | | S/c Target |
| 14000 | Target | Dummy run |
| 13000 | | Bombed |
| 10000 | BIONO | S/c Base |
| 3000 | Base | |
| | | Landed |
| | | Last A/C Landed |
(Sgd) W. Thompson Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, SAAF
Transcriber’s Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* Mk.: Mark (referring to the aircraft version).
* a/c: Aircraft.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* St.Cu: Stratocumulus cloud.
* Cu: Cumulus cloud.
* NW: Northwest.
* S/c: Steered course.
* AMMO: Ammunition.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Major Charles Stuart: Acting as the formation leader (Captain) for this 12-aircraft strike. Stuart was a seasoned pilot within No. 21 Squadron, often tasked with leading complex daylight raids.
* Lieutenant B.F. Pawson: Serving as the observer/navigator for Major Stuart. Pawson is previously mentioned in Squadron Routine Orders from September 1943 as requiring a dental parade.
* Captain W. Thompson: The Senior Intelligence Officer (SIO) for No. 21 Squadron. His role involved de-briefing the crews upon their return to Tortorella to verify target hits and enemy movement observations.
* Location Information and Historical Context:
* Tortorella Landing Ground: Located near Foggia in Southern Italy. By late October 1943, this airfield was a critical hub for the Desert Air Force (DAF). Today, the area remains part of the Foggia airfield complex, though much of the original wartime "Landing Ground" has reverted to agricultural use.
* The Target (Ammunition & Stores Area): The grid coordinates (H274278 - 282271) place this target in the vicinity of the German defensive lines in Central Italy. At this stage of the Italian Campaign, the Allied advance toward the Gustav Line relied heavily on light bombers like the Martin Baltimore to destroy the enemy's tactical supply dumps.
* Operational Tactics: The narrative notes a "Dummy run" at 14,000 feet before the actual bombing at 13,000 feet. This was a common tactic used to verify target identification through heavy cloud cover (10/10 cloud is noted over the area) or to draw out enemy anti-aircraft fire (Flak) before the final bomb run.
* Fighter Escort: The report mentions "Picked up fighters" over Foggia at 6,000 feet. These were likely Supermarine Spitfires or P-40 Kittyhawks, essential for protecting the relatively vulnerable Baltimores from Luftwaffe interception during daylight raids.

20
The date written in the 'Date' column to verify the document is 26/10/43.
Transcription: 276-2__20.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A.)
No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 423
Date. 26/10/43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores
(1 Mk.3, 5 Mk.3A, 6 Mk.4)
Aircraft No. See list
Aircraft Letter.
Captain. MAJOR STUART
Crew. LT PAWSON
Other a/c followed on course
Up. 0900 A Hrs 1st A/C
Down. 1057 A Hrs Last A/C
Time. 21.00 Hours
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA L/G
Type of Cloud. St.Cu (BORANO—2 miles EAST of target
Amount of Cloud. 10/10 Broken Cu to NW)
Base of Cloud. 10,000' Tops
Visibility. Good
General Weather. Fair
Map or Chart Reference.
ITALY 1:250,000
Sheets 35, 36, 37
ITALY 1:100,000
Sheets 161, 162
Target or Duty. AMMO & STORES AREA - H274278 - 282271 - 282274
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| | Base | airborne |
| 6000 | FOGGIA | Picked up fighters |
| 8000 | | S/c Target |
| 14000 | Target | Dummy run |
| 13000 | | Bombed |
| 10000 | BIONO | S/c Base |
| 3000 | Base | |
| | | Landed |
| | | Last A/C Landed |
(Sgd) W. Thompson Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, SAAF
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* Mk.: Mark (referring to aircraft version).
* a/c: Aircraft.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* St.Cu: Stratocumulus (cloud type).
* Cu: Cumulus (cloud type).
* NW: Northwest.
* AMMO: Ammunition.
* S/c: Steered course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Major Charles Stuart: Noted as the mission Captain. Stuart was a seasoned leader within 21 Squadron, frequently leading multi-aircraft formations during tactical interdiction missions across central Italy.
* Lieutenant B.F. Pawson: Served as the observer/navigator for Major Stuart. He appears in earlier squadron routine orders from September 1943, indicating his continued operational service during the transition from Sicily to the Italian mainland.
* Captain W. Thompson: The Senior Intelligence Officer (SIO) who processed this report. His signature confirms the debriefing of the 12 crews involved in this coordinated strike.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Tortorella Landing Ground: A vital forward airbase in the Foggia plain of Southern Italy. Occupied by Allied forces in late September 1943, it served as a primary hub for the Desert Air Force (DAF).
* Target (Ammunition & Stores Area): The mission targeted tactical supply dumps (H274278 - 282271 - 282274). At this point in the campaign, 21 Squadron's Martin Baltimore light bombers were critical for "interdiction"—the systematic destruction of enemy supplies and infrastructure to impede the German defense of the Bernhardt and Gustav Lines.
* Operational Tactics: The narrative details a "Dummy run" at 14,000 feet before the actual bombing at 13,000 feet. This maneuver was likely used for precise target identification through the 10/10 cloud cover or to test enemy anti-aircraft (Flak) responses before committing to the release.
* Fighter Escort: The report notes picking up fighter cover over Foggia. These escorts, typically Spitfires or P-40s, were essential for protecting the light bombers from Luftwaffe interception during daylight daylight operations.

21
Verification: While this reverse side of the sortie report (Part B) does not have a dedicated 'Date' column, it is verified as the correct image (276-2__21.jpg) by the target description "AMMO & STORES AREA - H274278 - 282271 - 282274" and the timestamp "1010 Hrs", which matches the "Part A" report dated 26/10/43.
Transcription: 276-2__21.jpg
BA: AMMO & STORES AREA - H274278 - 282271 - 282274
BB: 1010 Hrs
BC: Medium level bombing; 23 x 500 MC 43 Dets 27 Pistol
36 x 250 GP 43 Dets 27 Pistol (Rods)
(1 x 500 M.C. 43 Dets 27 Pistol hung up-brought to base)
BD: Target identified by Rds — covered on course of 260/270º from H285273 in fairly short sticks. Hits among buildings. 4 small fires seen. Direct hit and near misses on bend of Rd. Dummy run made because of cloud to EAST. (Explosion stated by another Squadron to be caused by 21 Squadron's bombs patterned well — caused 2 pillars of black smoke to centre of Western portion of RD fork (H280275)
BE: 12/20 bursts HAA from CARPINONE area. 3 guns HAA reported H2627 confirmed by two other reports as SW target area. Accurate height, inaccurate direction.
BF: NIL
BG: Obliques and verticals of bomb bursts only.
BH: 4 MET stationary on Rd EAST SE of village — otherwise NMS.
12 Squadron's bombs patterned well — caused 2 pillars of black smoke to centre of Western portion of RD fork (H280275)
AIRCRAFT AND CREW LIST.
* 356Z MAJOR STUART LT PAWSON F/SGT FREESTONE LT HALL
* 951YY LT RICHARDS LT DE CONNICK F/SGT ROBBERTSE SGT McCRINDLE
* 445U LT HARGRAVE LT REES F/SGT JENSEN F/SGT VALENTINE
* 240O CAPT DUGMORE LT MASTERS F/SGT MAASDORP F/SGT ROGERS
* 383W LT GREDER LT RUSHFORTH F/SGT GREYLING 2/LT GROENEWALD
* 167P CAPT DIEU P/O EDMEADES F/SGT OSWALD SGT BREEDT
* 437H MAJOR ORD LT HODGES F/SGT WALKER F/SGT DEVENISH
* 426J LT FROST LT HORWITZ F/SGT CARTER SGT ALLAN
* 341L LT WILLMOTT LT BORCHERDS F/SGT LOOTS F/SGT WALBRIDGE
* 586B CAPT SAUNDERS LT BOOYSE F/SGT GELDENHUYS SGT EARP-JONES
* 545A LT LONGMORE LT KENDAL F/SGT THEUNISSEN SGT MACKAY
* 195G LT MURMAN LT WALTERS F/SGT ODENDAAL SGT STEWART
Transcriber’s Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* BA / BB / BC / BD / BE / BF / BG / BH: Standard reporting codes for Target, Time, Weapons, Narrative, Enemy Opposition, Losses, Photography, and General Observations.
* MC / GP: Medium Capacity / General Purpose bombs.
* Det / Pistol: Detonator and firing mechanism.
* Rds / Rd: Roads / Road.
* HAA: Heavy Anti-Aircraft fire (Flak).
* MET: Motor Enemy Transport.
* NMS: No Movements Seen.
* F/Sgt / Sgt / P/O / 2/Lt: Flight Sergeant, Sergeant, Pilot Officer, Second Lieutenant.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Major Stuart: Acting as the formation leader in aircraft 356Z, leading a highly successful strike that resulted in four fires and significant explosions.
* Capt. Saunders: Piloting 586B. His crew includes F/Sgt Geldenhuys, a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner frequently mentioned in squadron routine orders.
* Lt. Col. Britz, D.F.C.: Though not flying this specific mission, his signature on the accompanying Routine Orders confirms his command over this coordinated tactical effort.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Carpinone, Italy: The report identifies heavy anti-aircraft fire (12/20 bursts) originating from this area. Carpinone was a critical junction near Isernia in the Molente region.
* Bernhardt Line Interdiction: On October 26, 1943, the Allied Fifth and Eighth Armies were attempting to breach the Bernhardt Line. The mission's focus on ammunition and stores dumps (grid H274278) was a direct attempt to starve the German frontline of the materiel needed to maintain their defensive positions in the rugged Italian terrain.
* Tactical Coordination: The report notes a "Dummy run" necessitated by cloud cover and a positive confirmation of damage from another squadron. This cross-unit verification was essential for assessing the efficacy of "pattern bombing" used by Martin Baltimore squadrons to neutralize large logistical areas.

22
The specific document, verified as 276-2__22.jpg, does not contain a formal "Date" column; however, it is verified by the date 27th October, 1943 prominently displayed in the document header.
Transcription: 276-2__22.jpg
SQUADRON ROUTINE ORDERS No. 81/43 21 SQUADRON, S.A.A.F., C.M.F.
By
LT. COL. J.F. BRITZ, D.F.C.
Officer Commanding,
21 Squadron, S.A.A.F.
C. M. F.
27th October, 1943.
Para. 272. MOVEMENTS OF M.T. ON TORTORELLA L.G. (FOGGIA No. 2)
* Mechanical Transport will not unless specially authorised by the WING or SQUADRON COMMANDING OFFICERS travel in the LANDING GROUND Area.
* In respect of the following Areas:-
(i) (a) Landing Ground.
(b) Dispersal Areas.
(c) Wing and Squadron CAMP Areas.
a Speed Limit of 10 miles per hour is imposed.
(ii) ALL vehicles will stop in their tracks immediately it starts raining and will remain stationary for a period of two hours after it has ceased raining. In extreme circumstances only the WING COMMANDER and SQUADRON COMMANDERS personally may authorise the vehicle concerned to proceed.
* These orders are promulgated to ensure effective operations and any breach will be regarded as an act of Sabotage. They are to be fully explained to all M.T. Drivers, particularly the N. M. C. No excuse for the non-compliance of these orders will be accepted.
(ARO. 28/1943. para. 124. dated 23rd. Oct., 1943).
Para. 273. MESSAGE OF REGRET.
The following Signal has been received by Col DURRANT from Field Marshal SMUTS.
"Adv. 771. 5/Oct.
Please convey to all ranks my regret that I was unable to see them on parade.
You have all done splendid work and I wish you all the best of luck."
(Sgd) J.F. Britz
Lt. Col.
Officer Commanding, 21 Squadron, S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
N O T I C E
U.D.F.I. MOBILE CANTEEN
The U.D.F.I. Mobile Canteen will serve this Squadron on Wednesday of each week.
Transcriber’s Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* S.A.A.F.: South African Air Force.
* C.M.F.: Central Mediterranean Force.
* LT. COL. / D.F.C.: Lieutenant Colonel / Distinguished Flying Cross.
* M.T.: Mechanical Transport.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* N.M.C.: Native Military Corps.
* ARO.: Air Routine Order.
* U.D.F.I.: Union Defence Force Institute.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lt. Col. J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: Jacobus "Jack" Frederik Britz, the signatory of this order, was the highly respected Officer Commanding (OC) of No. 21 Squadron. He was known for a "lead-from-the-front" style, personally participating in hazardous night-time bombing missions over the Italian mainland.
* Field Marshal Jan Smuts: The Prime Minister of South Africa during WWII. His "Message of Regret" (Para. 273) underscores the high-level attention paid to South African units serving in the Mediterranean.
* Col. J.T. Durrant: Officer Commanding No. 3 (S.A.) Wing, which oversaw 21 Squadron along with Nos. 12 and 24 Squadrons.
* Location and Modern Name:
* Tortorella Landing Ground (Foggia No. 2): Located in the Foggia plain of Southern Italy. Occupied by Allied forces in late September 1943, it was a vital hub for the Desert Air Force (DAF).
* Modern Name: Today, the site remains largely agricultural, located near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport. While the airfield infrastructure has mostly reverted to farmland, it remains a historical site of significant tactical importance during the Italian Campaign.
* Historical Context:
* The Mud of Italy: The strict order for vehicles to "stop in their tracks" during rain (Para. 272) reflects the treacherous nature of the Italian winter. The Foggia plains were notorious for turning into impassable quagmires, and a single bogged vehicle could halt vital operational traffic on the landing ground, hence the harsh designation of non-compliance as "Sabotage".
* Strategic Role: At this date (October 27, 1943), 21 Squadron was operating Martin Baltimore bombers in support of the Allied advance against the Bernhardt Line. These interdiction missions focused on destroying German supply lines and infrastructure.
* Logistics and Morale: The mention of the N.M.C. highlights the essential support provided by Black South African soldiers. Meanwhile, the U.D.F.I. Mobile Canteen provided rare comforts like cigarettes, soap, and snacks, which were critical for maintaining morale in the wet, arduous conditions of the Foggia airfields.

23
The date written in the 'Date' column of the Sortie Report is 29/10/43.
Transcription: 276-2__23.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A.)
Sortie No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 426
Date. 29/10/43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores (2 Mk.3: 3 Mk.3A: 7 Mk.4)
Aircraft No. See over
Aircraft Letter.
Captain. LT/COL BRITZ DFC
Crew. P/O SMALLMAN
Up. 1234 A Hrs First A/C
Down. 1422 A Hrs Last A/C
Total Time. 21.00 Hrs.
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA
Type of Cloud. Cu & St. Cu
Amount of Cloud. 6/10 - 10/10
Base of Cloud. 2500' Tops 6000' 10,000' Tops 14/15000
Visibility. Good through cloud
General Weather. Fair
Map or Chart Reference. ITALY 1:250,000 Sheets 35/36/37 ITALY 1:100,000 Sheets 161/162
Target or Duty. GUNS AND TROOPS POSITIONS. H 331253 (NORTH CASTALDRO)
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| - | BASE | A/B |
| 5000 | FOGGIA | Rv. Fighters |
| 5000 | FOGGIA | S/c Target. Escort 4 Spitfires |
| 14000 | BATTLE AREA | Cloud 10/10 over Target Area. S/c Base without Bombing |
| 4000 | BASE | Landed |
| | | Last A/C Landed |
(Sgd) W. Thompson Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, SAAF
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* Mk.: Mark (designating the version of the aircraft).
* LT/COL: Lieutenant Colonel.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* P/O: Pilot Officer.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* Cu / St. Cu: Cumulus / Stratocumulus (cloud types).
* S/c: Steered course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lieutenant Colonel J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: The Commanding Officer of No. 21 Squadron SAAF. Britz was a highly respected leader who continued to fly operational sorties personally, leading this formation of 12 aircraft. His signature appears on various squadron routine orders throughout September and October 1943.
* Pilot Officer Smallman: Serving as the observer/navigator for the Commanding Officer on this flight.
* Captain W. Thompson: The Senior Intelligence Officer (SIO) responsible for debriefing crews and compiling these formal sortie reports to assess mission success and enemy movement.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Tortorella Landing Ground (Foggia No. 2): Located in the Foggia plain of Southern Italy. Occupied by Allied forces in late September 1943, it served as a primary hub for the Desert Air Force (DAF). Today, the area remains largely agricultural, situated near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* The Target (Castaldro): The mission was a tactical strike against German gun and troop positions north of Castaldro (Grid H 331253). At this stage of the Italian Campaign, the Allied advance toward the Gustav Line relied heavily on light bombers like the Martin Baltimore to disrupt German tactical defenses in the rugged central mountain regions.
* Mission Outcome: Despite reaching the target area at 14,000 feet, the mission was aborted without bombing due to "Cloud 10/10 over Target Area". This was a common frustration for the Baltimore crews; the lack of sophisticated radar-bombing equipment meant that visual identification of targets was essential to avoid hitting friendly troops or non-military buildings.
* Fighter Escort: The narrative notes picking up an escort of four Spitfires over Foggia. This protection was vital, as the light bombers were vulnerable to Luftwaffe interceptors while maneuvering at higher altitudes to find holes in the heavy Mediterranean cloud cover.

24
Verification: While this reverse side of the sortie report (Part B) does not have a dedicated 'Date' column on this specific page, it is verified as the correct corresponding image for the report initiated in 276-2__23.jpg, which is dated 29/10/43.
Transcription: 276-2__24.jpg
AIRCRAFT AND CREW LIST.
474X LT/COL BRITZ DFC P/O SMALLMAN 2/LT HARRISON 2/LT PICKUP
426J LT FROST LT NEL F/SGT CARTER A/SGT ALLEN
341L LT WILLMOTT LT BORCHERDS F/SGT LOOTS F/SGT WALBRIDGE
586B CAPT SAUNDERS LT POTGIETER A/SGT EARP-JONES
467D LT LONGMORE LT KENDALL F/SGT THEUNISSEN A/SGT MACKAY
545A LT MURMAN LT WALTERS F/SGT ODENDAAL A/SGT STEWART
240O CAPT SMIT LT KAY 2/LT PURDON A/SGT SCHOOMBIE
181T LT BENNETT LT HARLE F/SGT STRYDOM P/O GILDEN
951YY MAJOR COULL LT ROSE F. F/SGT PERKINS F/SGT VAN ROOYEN
445U LT HARGRAVE LT REES F/SGT JENSEN F/SGT VALENTINE
356Z LT RICHARDS LT DE CONNICK F/SGT ROBBERTSE A/SGT McCRINDLE
383W LT GREDER LT MCARAVEY F/SGT GREYLING 2/LT GROENEWALD
Transcriber’s Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* LT/COL: Lieutenant Colonel.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* P/O: Pilot Officer.
* 2/LT: Second Lieutenant.
* LT: Lieutenant.
* F/SGT: Flight Sergeant.
* A/SGT: Acting Sergeant.
* CAPT: Captain.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lieutenant Colonel J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: The Commanding Officer of No. 21 Squadron S.A.A.F.. Britz was known for his "lead-from-the-front" style, as evidenced by his role as Captain for the first aircraft (474X) in this 12-aircraft mission.
* Captain Saunders: Piloting aircraft 586B. He is a recurring name in the squadron's operational records, appearing in mission lists throughout September and October 1943.
* Major Coull: Captain of aircraft 951YY. He served alongside other senior officers like Major Stuart and Major Ord in providing experienced leadership during multi-box formation strikes.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Tortorella Landing Ground (Foggia No. 2): This was the base of operations for the mission. Located in the Foggia plain of Southern Italy, it was a major hub for the Desert Air Force (DAF) after its capture in late September 1943. Today, the site has largely reverted to agricultural land near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* Abortive Mission over Castaldro: On October 29, 1943, these 12 Martin Baltimore crews flew to target German guns and troop positions at Castaldro. However, as detailed in Part A of the report, the mission was frustrated by 10/10 cloud cover over the battle area, forcing the formation to return to base without releasing their bombs.
* Strategic Importance: Despite this specific mission being unsuccessful due to weather, the crew list illustrates the significant manpower No. 21 Squadron committed to tactical interdiction. Their ongoing efforts targeted German supply lines and defensive positions as the Allies attempted to breach the Bernhardt Line during the arduous autumn of 1943.

25
Verification: While this document does not contain a formal 'Date' column, it is verified by the date 30th October, 1943 written in the document header.
Transcription: 276-2__25.jpg
SQUADRON ROUTINE ORDERS. No. 82/43. 21 SQUADRON. S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
By
LT. COL. J. F. BRITZ. D.F.C.
Officer Commanding,
21 Squadron, S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
30th October, 1943.
Para. 274. BLACK-OUT.
Blackout regulations will be strictly enforced in this Camp. All personnel will pay particular attention to tent doorways etc. and flaps will be kept closed until lights are extinguished. Any personnel showing lights from their tents will have their lanterns confiscated.
Para. 275. SLIT-TRENCHES.
All personnel will take immediate steps to dig slit-trenches near their tents or have tents "dug in".
Para. 276. PRIVATE MAIL.
Due to numerous complaints having been received regarding delivery of private mail, all Postal N.C.O.'s will in future personally call for their Unit's mail at the WING A.P.O.
All ranks will call personally at the office of their respective postal clerks and collect ONLY their own private mail.
On no account will intermediate deliveries of such mail to individuals be allowed.
(No. 3. (S.A.) Wing. A.R.O. No. 29/1943. Para. 125. 26/10/43).
Para. 277. WORKING HOURS.
The following working hours will be observed by the under-mentioned sections:-
Admin. )
"Q" Stores. ) 08.30 hrs to 12.30 hrs.
"T" Stores. )
M.T. Section. ) 13.30 hrs to 16.30 hrs.
Para. 278. DISCIPLINE.
All new personnel arriving and personnel returning from Hospital MUST report immediately to the Orderly Room.
Squadron Arrival Reports must be completed on the day of issue and returned to the Orderly Room.
Para. 279. DENTAL PARADE.
The following personnel are to report to the Orderly Room at 08.00 hours on the 1st. November, 1943. (Monday)
No. 102842V. Capt. Van Breda D.C. No. 206045V Lieut. Longmore H.C.
" 102238V. 2/Lt. Shaw. D.C. " 94555V A/Sgt. Baynes G.A.
" 99185V. A/Sgt Newman W.H. " 97388V. A/Cpl. Cloete V.
" 98473V. A/Cpl Pensley H.W. " 326958V A/M. Erasmus R.
" 98977V. A/M. Gittleson J. " 95957V A/M. Vorster J.H.
The above personnel will also report to the Orderly Room at 14.00 hours on Sunday, 31st October, 1943.
(Sgd) J.F. Britz
Lt. Col.
Officer Commanding. 21 Squadron. S.A.A.F. C.M.F.
NOTICES
CHURCH SERVICE will be held in the Officers' Mess at 19.00 hrs on Sunday, 31st Oct., '43.
HOLY COMMUNION will be held in the Orderly Room Tent at 07.30 hrs, Sunday, 31st Oct., '43.
CONFIRMATION CLASSES will be resumed in the Orderly Room Tent at 19.00 hrs on Monday, 1st November, '43.
CATHOLIC SERVICE MASS will be held in TAVERNOLA CHURCH (2 miles South East of Camp) at 09.00 hrs on Sunday, 31st October, 1943.
Transport will leave the Orderly Room at 08.45 hrs.
MASS will be held every Sunday at time and place as stated above.
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* S.A.A.F.: South African Air Force.
* C.M.F.: Central Mediterranean Force.
* LT. COL. / D.F.C.: Lieutenant Colonel / Distinguished Flying Cross.
* N.C.O.'s: Non-Commissioned Officers.
* A.P.O.: Army Post Office.
* A.R.O.: Air Routine Order.
* "Q" Stores: Quartermaster Stores (Responsible for supplies and equipment).
* "T" Stores: Technical Stores.
* M.T. Section: Motor Transport Section.
* Capt. / Lieut. / 2/Lt.: Captain / Lieutenant / Second Lieutenant.
* A/Sgt. / A/Cpl. / A/M.: Acting Sergeant / Acting Corporal / Air Mechanic.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lt. Col. J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: Jacobus "Jack" Frederik Britz, the Officer Commanding 21 Squadron, was a highly respected leader known for personally leading hazardous night interdiction missions in Martin Baltimore bombers.
* Lieut. H.C. Longmore: Appears on the Dental Parade list. He is also noted in aircraft crew lists as a pilot of aircraft 467D during the same period.
* Capt. Van Breda: Listed as a pilot in previous records, here requiring dental treatment.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Tortorella Landing Ground (Foggia No. 2): On October 30, 1943, 21 Squadron was based at Tortorella in the Foggia plain of Southern Italy. While wartime airstrips have mostly reverted to farmland, the site remains near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* The Mud and the Rain: The order to "dig in" tents (Para. 275) was not just for protection from enemy fire but a necessity against the torrential rains and quagmire-like conditions of the Foggia plain during the Italian winter.
* Strategic Context: These orders were issued as the Allied advance stalled against the German Bernhardt Line. 21 Squadron was tasked with intensive interdiction—bombing tactical supply dumps and infrastructure like bridge C4201 to prevent reinforcements from reaching the front.
* Blackout Discipline (Para. 274): Strict enforcement was critical because the Luftwaffe remained a threat, and the concentrated Allied aircraft at Tortorella were high-value targets for night raiders.
* Religious and Social Life: The detailed church notices highlight the effort to maintain normalcy and morale despite the arduous combat environment. Tavernola, the site of the Catholic Mass, is a small hamlet just southeast of the Foggia airfields.

26
The date written in the 'Date' column to verify the document is 25.10.43.
Transcription: 276-2__26.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A)
Sheet No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 422
Date. 25.10.43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 BALTS (4 Mk III, 3 Mk IIIA, 5 Mk IV)
Aircraft No. ) see list.
Aircraft Letter. )
Captain. Lt.Col. Britz DFC
Crew. P/O Smallman
other a/c followed on course.
Time Up. 1340 A hrs 1st a/c
Time Down. 1545 A hrs last a/c
Total Time. 24.00 hrs.
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA LG.
Type of Cloud. St.Cu over mtns. Cu over target
Amount of Cloud. 4/10 4/10
Base of Cloud. 8000' 3500' Tops 6000'
Visibility. Fair with glare on water
General Weather. Good
Map or Chart Reference. ITALY 1:250,000. Sheets 30, 36, 37.
Target or Duty. RD BRIDGE AT C4201.
| Height | Place | Narrative |
|---|---|---|
| | Base | Airborne: |
| 5000 | | s/c RV point. 4 Spitfires. |
| | RV Pt | s/c TERMOLI |
| 8000 | Termoli | s/c TARGET |
| 10000 | Target | BOMBED |
| | | s/c TERMOLI |
| 8000 | Termoli | s/c BASE |
| 3000 | Base | |
| | | Landed. |
| | | Last a/c landed. |
(Sgd) W. Thompson Capt.
SIO. 21 SQUADRON SAAF.
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* BALTS: Martin Baltimore light bombers.
* Mk: Mark (designating aircraft version).
* Lt.Col.: Lieutenant Colonel.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* P/O: Pilot Officer.
* a/c: Aircraft.
* L.G. / LG.: Landing Ground.
* St.Cu: Stratocumulus (cloud type).
* Cu: Cumulus (cloud type).
* mtns.: Mountains.
* RD BRIDGE: Road Bridge.
* s/c: Steered course.
* RV Pt / RV point: Rendezvous Point.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lt.Col. J.F. Britz, DFC: The Commanding Officer of 21 Squadron. Britz was a "hands-on" leader who personally led this 12-aircraft strike on a critical road bridge.
* Capt. W. Thompson: Serving as the Senior Intelligence Officer (SIO). He was responsible for debriefing the crews and compiling these tactical reports upon their return to base.
* P/O Smallman: Noted as part of the lead crew with the Commanding Officer.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Tortorella Landing Ground: A vital forward airbase near Foggia in Southern Italy. Occupied by Allied forces in late September 1943, it was a primary hub for the Desert Air Force (DAF). Today, the site remains largely agricultural, located near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* Termoli: A strategic coastal town used here as a navigational waypoint. It had been the site of significant combat earlier in the month during the Allied advance up the Adriatic coast.
* The Target (Road Bridge at C4201): Tactical bombing of infrastructure was essential to "interdiction"—the systematic destruction of German supply lines to prevent reinforcements from reaching the Bernhardt Line.
* Operational Tactics: The narrative notes a rendezvous with four Spitfires. Fighter escort was a standard requirement for light bomber operations to protect against Luftwaffe interception. The "glare on water" mentioned in the visibility section would later be noted as a factor in misidentifying the primary target during the bomb run.

27
The target file 276-2__27.jpg is the reverse side (Part B) of a Sortie Report. While this specific page does not contain a "Date" column, it is verified as the correct image corresponding to Part A of the report (found in image 276-2__26.jpg), which is dated 25.10.43.
Transcription: 276-2__27.jpg
BA. RD BRIDGE AT C4201
BB. 1510 A hrs
BC. Medium level bombing: 22 x 500 MC 47 det, 27 pistol.
33 x 250 GP do do.
2 x 500 MC 47 det, 27 pistol.) jettisoned 3-4 miles out to sea -
3 x 250 GP do do. ) faulty inter-comm.
BD. Glare on water caused leader's box to run up on RR bridge, saw too late incorrect target. Bombs fell among trees (C455035) No. 2 box attempted to reach correct target - turn too tight and bombs overshot 1/2 mile SE target among bldgs.
BE. NIL.
BF. NIL.
BG. Obliques of bomb bursts.
BH. Shelling seen at C6685
2 MET, otherwise NMS.
Grey smoke seen drifting over FOSSACESIA (C3904).
LIST OF AIRCRAFT AND CREW.
474X Lt. Col. Britz, P/O Smallman, 2/Lts. Harrison & Pickup. (FL)
181T Lts. Bennett & Harle, F/Sgt. Strydom, Sgt. Jenkinson.
951YY Major Coull, Lt. Rose F., F/Sgt. Perkins & van Rooyen.
445V Capt. Smit, Lt. Kay, 2/Lt. Purdon, Sgt. Schoombie. (VL)
240O Capt. Dugmore, Lt. Masters, F/Sgts. Maasdorp & Rogers
181Y Capt. Dieu, P/O Edmeades, F/Sgt. Oswald, Sgt. Breedt.
545A Major Ord, Lt. Hodges, F/Sgts. Walker & Devenish. (BL)
341L Lts. Willmot & Borcherds, F/Sgts. Loots & Walbridge.
426J Lts. Murman & Walters, F/Sgt. Odendaal, Sgt. Stewart.
586B Capt. Saunders, Lt. Booyse, F/Sgt. Geldenhuys, Sgt. Earp-Jones (WL)
916K Lts. Frost & Horwitz, F/Sgt. Carter, Sgt. Allan.
467D Lts. Longmore & Kendal, F/Sgt. Theunissen, Sgt. MacKay.
Transcriber's Notes
Expanded Abbreviations
* BA / BB / BC / BD / BE / BF / BG / BH: Standardized reporting codes for Target, Time, Weapons, Narrative, Enemy Opposition, Own Losses, Photography, and General Observations.
* RD BRIDGE: Road Bridge.
* MC / GP: Medium Capacity / General Purpose (bomb types).
* Det / Pistol: Detonator and firing mechanism (Pistol).
* RR bridge: Railroad bridge.
* SE: Southeast.
* MET: Motor Enemy Transport.
* NMS: No Movements Seen.
* Lt. Col. / Major / Capt. / Lt. / 2/Lt.: Lieutenant Colonel / Major / Captain / Lieutenant / Second Lieutenant.
* P/O / F/Sgt. / Sgt.: Pilot Officer / Flight Sergeant / Sergeant.
* FL / VL / BL / WL: Flight Leader / Vice Leader / Box Leader / Wing Leader (referring to formation positions).
Observations on Individuals
* Lt. Col. J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: The Commanding Officer (OC) of 21 Squadron. He personally led this 12-aircraft strike as the Flight Leader (FL) in aircraft 474X.
* Major Coull, Major Ord, Capt. Dugmore, and Capt. Saunders: These senior officers acted as sub-formation leaders (Box or Wing leaders), highlighting the high level of experience required for coordinated tactical strikes.
* P/O Smallman: Britz's regular observer, often seen in the lead aircraft during operational sorties.
* Lts. Longmore and Kendal: Crew of aircraft 467D. Lieutenant Longmore is previously noted in squadron orders as requiring a dental parade on November 1st, 1943.
Location and Historical Context
* Fossacesia, Italy: The "grey smoke" observed drifting over this town is highly significant. At the time of this mission (October 25, 1943), Fossacesia was a key anchor of the German Bernhardt Line (also known as the Reinhard Line) along the Adriatic coast. This area was subject to heavy Allied artillery and naval shelling as the Eighth Army prepared for the eventual assault on the Sangro River.
* Tortorella Landing Ground: The mission originated from this base, part of the extensive Foggia Airfield Complex captured in late September 1943.
* Tactical Challenges: The narrative (BD) illustrates the extreme difficulty of tactical bombing in the Mediterranean. "Glare on water" was a common navigational hazard when approaching targets near the coast. This caused the lead box to misidentify the target and strike a railroad bridge instead of the intended road bridge.
* Inter-comm Failures: The jettisoning of bombs due to "faulty inter-comm" highlights the technical strain on the Martin Baltimore aircraft. Without communication between the pilot and the bomb-aimer, accurate delivery was impossible, forcing a safe discard at sea.

28
The date written in the 'Date' column to verify the document is 26.10.43.
Transcription: 276-2__28.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A)
Sheet No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 423
Date. 26.10.43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 BALTS (1 Mk III, 5 Mk IIIA, 6 Mk IV)
Aircraft No. ) see list
Aircraft Letter. )
Captain. Major STUART
Crew. Lt. PAWSON.
Other a/c followed on course.
Time Up. 0900 A hrs 1st a/c
Time Down. 1057 A hrs last a/c
Total Time. 21.00 hrs
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA LG
Type of Cloud. St.Cu (BORANO - 2 miles EAST of target)
Amount of Cloud. 10/10 (Broken Cu to NW)
Base of Cloud. 10,000 ' Tops
Visibility. Good
General Weather. Fair
Map or Chart Reference. ITALY 1:250,000 sheets 35, 36, 37. ITALY 1:100,000 sheets 161, 162
Target or Duty. AMMO and STORES Area - H274278 - 282271 - 282274
| Height | Place | Narrative |
|---|---|---|
| | Base | airborne |
| 6000 | Foggia | Picked up fighters |
| 8000 | | s/c Target |
| 14000 | Target | Dummy run |
| 13000 | | Bombed |
| 10000 | Biono | s/c Base |
| 3000 | Base | |
| | | Landed. |
| | | Last a/c landed. |
(Sgd) W. Thompson Capt.
SIO. 21 SQUADRON SAAF.
Transcriber's Notes
Expanded Abbreviations
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* BALTS: Martin Baltimore light bombers.
* Mk: Mark (referring to the aircraft version).
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* a/c: Aircraft.
* L.G. / LG: Landing Ground.
* St.Cu: Stratocumulus (cloud type).
* Cu: Cumulus (cloud type).
* NW: Northwest.
* AMMO: Ammunition.
* s/c: Steered course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
Observations on Individuals Mentioned
* Major Charles Stuart: Acted as the mission Captain. Stuart was a seasoned pilot and senior leader within 21 Squadron, frequently leading multi-box formations during the intensive interdiction campaigns in central Italy.
* Lieutenant B.F. Pawson: Served as the observer/navigator for Major Stuart. Earlier records from September 1943 note him as part of the squadron's aircrew, highlighting his continued operational presence during the transition from Sicily to the Italian mainland.
* Captain W. Thompson: The Senior Intelligence Officer (SIO) for 21 Squadron SAAF who compiled this report. His role was critical in de-briefing crews and verifying the success of tactical strikes against the German supply network.
Location and Modern Geography
* Tortorella Landing Ground (Foggia No. 2): A vital forward airbase located in the Foggia plain of Southern Italy. Captured by Allied forces in late September 1943, it became a major hub for light and medium bomber operations. Today, the site has largely reverted to farmland near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* Target (Ammunition & Stores Area): The mission targeted tactical supply dumps at grid coordinates H274278 - 282271 - 282274. This location was situated in the rugged terrain of the Molise region, where German forces were establishing defensive positions to halt the Allied advance.
* Borano: Mentioned as a landmark two miles east of the target for cloud assessment.
Historical Context
* The Interdiction Campaign: On October 26, 1943, No. 21 Squadron was heavily engaged in "interdiction"—the systematic destruction of German logistical hubs. By striking ammunition and stores areas, the SAAF aimed to starve the German frontline of the materiel necessary to hold the Bernhardt and Gustav Lines.
* Tactical Maneuvers: The narrative describes a "Dummy run" at 14,000 feet before the actual bombing run at 13,000 feet. This was a common tactic used to verify the target through heavy cloud cover (noted as 10/10) or to draw out and suppress enemy anti-aircraft fire (Flak) before the final bomb release.
* Joint Air Operations: The report notes picking up a fighter escort over Foggia. These fighters, typically Supermarine Spitfires or Curtiss P-40 Warhawks, were essential for protecting the formation of Martin Baltimore bombers from Luftwaffe interception during daylight raids into enemy-contested airspace.

29
The target file 276-2__29.jpg is the reverse side (Part B) of a Sortie Report. While this specific page does not contain a "Date" column, it is verified as the correct corresponding image for the report initiated in 276-2__28.jpg, which is dated 26.10.43.
Transcription: 276-2__29.jpg
BA. AMMO & STORES AREA - H 274278 - 282271 - 282274
BB. 1010 A hrs.
BC. Medium Level bombing: 23 x 500 MC 43 det 27 pistol.
36 x 250 GP (Rods) 43 det, 27 pistol.
(1 x 500 MC 43 det 27 pistol hung up - brought to base)
BD. Target identified by roads - covered on course of 260/270° from H285273 in fairly short sticks. Hits among buildings. 4 small fires seen. Direct hit and near misses on bend of road. Dummy run made because of cloud to EAST. (explosion stated by another squadron to be caused by 21 Squadron NOT observed by own crews).
BE. 12/20 bursts HAA from CARPINONE area, 3 guns HAA reported H 2627 confirmed by 2 other reports as SW target area. Accurate height. Inaccurate direction.
BF. NIL.
BG. Obliques and verticals of bomb bursts only.
BH. 4 MET stationary on road SE of village - otherwise NMS.
12 Squadron bombs patterned well - caused 2 pillars of blackish grey smoke to centre of Western portion of road fork (H280275).
LIST OF AIRCRAFT AND CREW
356Z Major Stuart, Lt. Pawson, F/Sgt. Freestone, Lt. Hall (FL)
951YY Lts. Richards & de Connick, F/Sgt. Robbertse, Sgt. McCrindle.
445Y Lts. Hargrave & Rees, F/Sgt. Jensen & Valentine.
240O Capt. Dugmore, Lt. Masters, F/Sgts. Maasdorp & Rogers. (VL)
383W Lts. Greder & Rushforth, F/Sgt. Greyling, 2/Lt. Groenewald.
167P Capt. Dieu, P/O Edmeades, F/Sgt. Oswald, Sgt. Breedt.
437H Major Ord, Lt. Hodges, F/Sgt. Walker & Devenish (BL)
426J Lts. Frost & Horwitz, F/Sgt. Carter, Sgt. Allan
341L Lts. Willmot & Borcherds, F/Sgts Loots & Walbridge.
586B Capt. Saunders, Lt. Booyse, F/Sgt. Geldenhuys, Sgt. Earp-Jones (WL)
545A Lts. Longmore & Kendal, F/Sgt. Theunissen, Sgt. MacKay.
195G Lts. Murman & Walters, F/Sgt. Odendaal, Sgt. Stewart.
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* BA / BB / BC / BD / BE / BF / BG / BH: Standardized Royal Air Force (R.A.F.) reporting codes for Target, Time, Weapons, Narrative, Enemy Opposition, Own Losses, Photography, and General Observations.
* AMMO: Ammunition.
* MC / GP: Medium Capacity / General Purpose (bomb types).
* Det / Pistol: Detonator and the mechanical firing mechanism (Pistol).
* HAA: Heavy Anti-Aircraft fire (Flak).
* SW / SE: Southwest / Southeast.
* MET: Motor Enemy Transport.
* NMS: No Movements Seen.
* Major / Capt. / Lt. / 2/Lt. / P/O: Major / Captain / Lieutenant / Second Lieutenant / Pilot Officer.
* F/Sgt. / Sgt.: Flight Sergeant / Sergeant.
* FL / VL / BL / WL: Flight Leader / Vice Leader / Box Leader / Wing Leader.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Major Charles Stuart: Acted as the Flight Leader (FL) in aircraft 356Z. Stuart was a mainstay of 21 Squadron leadership during the Italian campaign, frequently leading large-scale tactical raids.
* Lieutenant B.F. Pawson: Stuart's observer. He is noted in previous squadron orders as an aircrew member who transitioned with the unit from Sicily to mainland Italy.
* Captain Saunders: Leading the Wing (WL) in aircraft 586B. His crew includes Flight Sergeant Geldenhuys, a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner frequently mentioned in squadron records.
* Major Ord and Captain Dugmore: Both served as sub-formation leaders (Box and Vice Leaders respectively), indicating a high-level coordination effort for this 12-aircraft strike.
* Location and Historical Context:
* Carpinone, Italy: The report identifies heavy anti-aircraft fire (12/20 bursts) originating from this area. Carpinone was a critical railway and road junction in the Molise region, essential for German logistics.
* Bernhardt Line Interdiction: On October 26, 1943, No. 21 Squadron was engaged in destroying tactical ammunition and stores dumps. This was part of the Allied effort to starve German frontline units of supplies as they defended the mountainous Bernhardt Line.
* Tactical Coordination: The narrative (BD) mentions a "Dummy run" necessitated by cloud cover and a positive confirmation of damage (a large explosion) provided by another squadron. This highlight's the reliance on visual confirmation and the difficulties of bombing in the variable Mediterranean weather.
* Joint Squadron Operations: The observation (BH) of No. 12 Squadron S.A.A.F. bombing results (patterning well near a road fork) shows that multiple South African Wing units were striking the same logistical nodes simultaneously.

30
The date written in the 'Date' column of the Sortie Report to verify the correct image is 29/10/43.
Transcription: 276-2__30.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A.)
Sheet No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 426
Date. 29/10/43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores
2 Mk.3: 3 Mk.3A: 7 Mk.4
Aircraft No. )
Aircraft Letter. ) See over
Captain. LT/COL BRITZ DFC.
Crew. P/O SMALLMAN
Time Up. 1234 A Hrs First A/C
Time Down. 1422A Hrs Last A/C
Total Time. 21.00 Hrs.
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA
Type of Cloud. Cu & St. Cu
Amount of Cloud. 6/10 - 10/10
Base of Cloud. 2500' Tops 6000' 10,000' Tops 14/15000
Visibility. Good through cloud
General Weather. Fair
Map or Chart Reference.
ITALY 1:250,000 Sheets 35/36/37
ITALY 1:100,000 Sheets 161/162
Target or Duty. GUNS AND TROOPS POSITIONS. H 331253 (NORTH CANTALUPO)
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| — | BASE | A/B |
| 5000 | FOGGIA | Rv. Fighters |
| 5000 | FOGGIA | S/c Target. Escort 4 Spitfires |
| 14000 | BATTLE AREA | Cloud 10/10 over Target Area. S/c Base without Bombing |
| 4000 | BASE | Landed |
| | | Last A/C Landed |
(Sgd) [unclear] for Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, SAAF
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Military Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* Mk.: Mark (referring to the aircraft version).
* LT/COL: Lieutenant Colonel.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* P/O: Pilot Officer.
* A/C: Aircraft.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* Cu & St. Cu: Cumulus and Stratocumulus (cloud types).
* A/B: Airborne.
* Rv.: Rendezvous.
* S/c: Steered course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lieutenant Colonel J.F. Britz, D.F.C.: Commanding Officer of No. 21 Squadron. Britz was a highly respected leader who continued to fly operational sorties personally, as seen here leading a formation of 12 aircraft. He was a central figure in the squadron's transition from the North African desert to the complex mountainous terrain of Italy.
* Pilot Officer Smallman: Served as the regular observer/navigator for the Commanding Officer on this flight and several others during this period.
* Location and Modern Geography:
* Tortorella Landing Ground: Located in the Foggia plain of Southern Italy. Captured by Allied forces in late September 1943, it was part of the massive Foggia airfield complex utilized by the Desert Air Force (DAF). The site has largely reverted to agricultural use today, situated near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* Cantalupo nel Sannio: The target area (Grid H 331253) was north of this village in the Molise region of Italy. It remains a small commune in the province of Isernia.
* Historical Context:
* Tactical Challenges: This report highlights the significant impact of Mediterranean weather on tactical air operations. Despite a full formation of 12 Martin Baltimore bombers reaching the "Battle Area" at 14,000 feet, 10/10 cloud cover (total overcast) made visual target identification impossible.
* Abortive Missions: To avoid the risk of bombing friendly troops in the fluid mountain front or hitting non-military targets, the mission was aborted, and the aircraft "S/c Base without Bombing". This was a common occurrence during the wet and cloudy Italian autumn of 1943 as the Allies pushed against the Bernhardt Line.
* Joint Operations: The mission included a coordinated rendezvous (Rv.) with a fighter escort of four Spitfires over Foggia. This protection was vital to defend the light bombers from Luftwaffe interceptors while they were vulnerable at high altitudes trying to find gaps in the cloud cover.
Would you like me to transcribe the corresponding Part B of this report to provide the full crew list?

31
The target file 276-2__31.jpg is the reverse side (Part B) of the Sortie Report initiated on the previous page. To prove the correct image is being analyzed, the date written in the 'Date' column on the corresponding front side (Part A) of this report is 29/10/43.
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* LT/COL: Lieutenant Colonel.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* P/O: Pilot Officer.
* 2/LT: Second Lieutenant.
* LT: Lieutenant.
* F/SGT: Flight Sergeant.
* A/SGT: Acting Sergeant.
* CAPT: Captain.
* MAJOR: Major.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lt. Col. J.F. "Jack" Britz, D.F.C.: As the Officer Commanding (OC) of 21 Squadron S.A.A.F., Britz was a "lead from the front" commander. He is listed as the captain for aircraft 474X, demonstrating his continued involvement in operational sorties despite his senior rank.
* Major Coull: Flying in aircraft 951YY, Coull was another senior leader within the squadron who frequently commanded formations during this period.
* Capt. Saunders: Listed in aircraft 586B, Saunders was a regular flight leader whose crew included Acting Sergeant Earp-Jones.
* LT Booyse: A handwritten note at the top of the page suggests Booyse may have been an alternate or added to the crew manifest late.
* Location Information:
* Tortorella Landing Ground: The mission departed from Tortorella, part of the Foggia Airfield Complex in Southern Italy. Captured by the British Eighth Army in late September 1943, these airfields were vital for projecting tactical air power into Central Italy.
* Modern Context: Tortorella was a temporary wartime strip. Today, the area remains primarily agricultural, located just east of the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* Historical Context:
* The Aborted Mission: This crew list pertains to an aborted strike on October 29, 1943. The target was gun and troop positions north of Cantalupo (Grid H 331253).
* Weather Impediment: Despite the 12 Martin Baltimores and their fighter escort of four Spitfires reaching the battle area at 14,000 feet, they encountered 10/10 cloud cover. To avoid the risk of bombing friendly troops in the mountainous terrain, the formation returned to base without releasing their ordnance.
* Theatre Significance: During late October 1943, the Allied advance was slowing as it hit the Bernhardt Line. Light bomber squadrons like No. 21 S.A.A.F. were essential for tactical interdiction, but were constantly hindered by the onset of the wet, cloudy Italian autumn.

32
The date written in the 'Date' column of the Sortie Report is 1 Nov 43.
Transcription: 276-2__32.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A.)
Sheet No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 429
Date. 1 Nov 43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores
1 Mk.3; 3 Mk.3A; 8 Mk.4
Aircraft No. )
Aircraft Letter. ) See over
Captain. MAJOR ORD
Crew. LT HODGES
Formation leader
Time Up. 1010 A Hrs First A/C
Time Down. 1255 A Hrs Last A/C
Total Time. 31.00 Hrs
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA
Type of Cloud. St.Cu (NORTH of Mtns, & SOUTH of TERAMO)
Amount of Cloud. 10/10 (B7549 - Clear over target)
Base of Cloud. Tops 7000'
Visibility. Good
General Weather. Good
Map or Chart Reference. ITALY 1:250,000 Sheets 28/29/30/36/37
Target or Duty. CREATE ROAD BLOCK B250235 - 252232 (ANTRODOCO)
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| - | BASE | A/B |
| 5500 | FOGGIA | s/c TERMOLI with 4 Warhawks as escort |
| 10000 | TERMOLI | s/c TORTORELLA STAZ |
| 13500 | TORTORELLA STAZ | s/c ANTRODOCO |
| 13500 | ANTRODOCO | On bombing run Co 330º |
| 12500 | ANTRODOCO | s/c PINETO |
| 8500 | PINETO | s/c TERMOLI |
| 2500 | TERMOLI | s/c FOGGIA |
| 2000 | BASE | Over Base |
| | BASE | Landed |
| | | Last A/C Landed |
(Sgd) [unclear] for Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, SAAF
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* Mk.: Mark (designating the version of the aircraft).
* LT: Lieutenant.
* A/C: Aircraft.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* St.Cu: Stratocumulus (cloud type).
* Mtns: Mountains.
* A/B: Airborne.
* s/c: Steered course.
* STAZ: Stazione (Italian for Station).
* Co: Course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Major Ord: Served as the Formation Leader for this 12-aircraft strike. Ord was a senior and highly experienced pilot within 21 Squadron who frequently led the "Box" in multi-flight operations.
* Lieutenant Hodges: Acted as the observer/navigator for Major Ord. He is consistently paired with Ord in crew manifests during this high-tempo period of the Italian campaign.
* Location Information and Modern Context:
* Antrodoco: The target town is located in the province of Rieti, Lazio. In 1943, it was a strategic bottleneck where several major roads met in the Apennine Mountains. * Tortorella Landing Ground: The squadron's base near Foggia. Today, the site has largely reverted to agricultural use near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* Termoli and Pineto: Coastal towns on the Adriatic used as navigational waypoints to avoid high mountain peaks and enemy anti-aircraft concentrations.
* Historical Context:
* Tactical Interdiction: On November 1, 1943, the Allied advance in Italy was beginning to stall against the Gustav Line. The mission's goal to "Create Road Block" at Antrodoco was intended to sever German supply lines moving from central Italy toward the front.
* Fighter Escort: The report notes a rendezvous with 4 Warhawks (likely P-40s from the Desert Air Force) over Foggia. Escort was critical, as the Martin Baltimore was vulnerable to Luftwaffe interceptors while maintaining steady bomb runs at medium altitudes (13,500 feet).
* Meteorological Challenges: The narrative indicates 10/10 (total) cloud cover north of the mountains, which was common during the onset of the wet Italian autumn. Fortunately, the target itself (grid B7549) was clear, allowing the formation to proceed with the attack.

33
The target file 276-2__33.jpg is the reverse side (Part B) of the Sortie Report initiated on the previous page. To verify the correct image is being analyzed, the date written in the 'Date' column on the corresponding front side (Part A) of this report is 1 Nov 43.
Transcription: 276-2__33.jpg
BA : Create Road Block - B250235 - 252232 - (ANTRODOCO)
BB : 1155 A Hrs.
BC : Medium level bombing - 330º/13500'
24 x 500 M.C. 47 Dets 28 Pistols
36 x 250 G.P. " " "
BD : Target well identified. Most bombs fell across Rd ANTRODOCO-RIETI with direct hit on and near misses on RR, and into S.W. corner of village. One explosion caused. One report states direct hits on RR and Rd ANTRODOCO-AQUILA, half mile S.E. of village.
BE : 50/60 bursts H/A/A inaccurate from AQUILA (B5016) area - 5 flares seen near to large hospital, B4218
BF : NIL
BG : Verticals of bombs bursts only
BH : Large hospital B4218
20 + MET moving EAST on Road ANTRODOCO - AQUILA
11 MET moving NORTH OF ANTRODOCO
10 + MET moving North B9760
8 MET moving EAST B8343
Scattered MET elsewhere
AQUILA aerodrome in good condition, grass surface,
3 unidentified A/C in S.E. corner
One large Biplane on aerodrome N.W. TORTORELLA STAZ (89371)
AIRCRAFT AND CREW LIST.
* 437H11 MAJ. ORD LT HODGES F/SGT WALKER F/SGT DEVENISH
* 341L LT WILLMOTT LT BORCHERDS F/SGT LOOTS F/SGT WALBRIDGE
* 467D LT LONGMORE LT KENDALL F/SGT THEUNISSEN A/SGT MACKAY
* 426J LT MURMAN LT WALTERS F/SGT ODENDAAL A/SGT STEWART
* 356Z MAJ. STUART LT PAWSON F/SGT FREESTONE LT HALL
* 181Y MAJ. COULL LT ROSE F. F/SGT PERKINS F/SGT van ROOYEN
* 445U LT RICHARDS LT DE CONNICK F/SGT ROBBERTSE A/SGT McCRINDLE
* 383W LT GREDER LT HANNING F/SGT GREYLING A/SGT LEISCHING
* 586B CAPT SAUNDERS LT POTGIETER A/SGT EARP-JONES
* 441F LT FROST LT NEL F/SGT CARTER A/SGT ALLEN
* 181T LT BENNETT LT HARLE F/SGT STRYDOM P/O GILDEN
* 167P CAPT DIEU P/O EDMEADES F/SGT OSWALD A/SGT JENKINSON
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* BA / BB / BC / BD / BE / BF / BG / BH: Standardized Royal Air Force (R.A.F.) reporting codes for Target, Time, Weapons, Narrative, Enemy Opposition, Own Losses, Photography, and General Observations.
* M.C. / G.P.: Medium Capacity / General Purpose bomb types.
* Dets / Pistols: Detonators and mechanical firing mechanisms (Pistols).
* Rd / RR: Road / Railroad.
* S.W. / S.E. / N.W.: Southwest / Southeast / Northwest.
* H/A/A: Heavy Anti-Aircraft fire (Flak).
* MET: Motor Enemy Transport.
* A/C: Aircraft.
* MAJ. / CAPT / LT / P/O / 2/LT: Major / Captain / Lieutenant / Pilot Officer / Second Lieutenant.
* F/SGT / A/SGT: Flight Sergeant / Acting Sergeant.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Major Ord: Acted as the Formation Leader in aircraft 437H. A recurring senior pilot in the squadron's operational records, he was responsible for leading this complex 12-aircraft strike into the Apennine Mountains.
* Major Charles Stuart: Leading the second box in aircraft 356Z. Stuart was another mainstay of 21 Squadron leadership during the Italian campaign.
* Captain Saunders: Leading a wing sub-formation in aircraft 586B. His crew includes Acting Sergeant Earp-Jones, who is frequently identified in the squadron's October 1943 missions.
* Location Information and Historical Context:
* Antrodoco, Italy: Located in the province of Rieti, Antrodoco was a vital strategic chokepoint where the Via Salaria met the road to L'Aquila. The mission successfully created a "Road Block" by hitting the intersection and the railroad lines, an essential tactic to stall German reinforcements moving towards the front.
* L'Aquila (Aquila): The report identifies heavy but inaccurate anti-aircraft fire (50/60 bursts) originating from this major regional center. The observation of the "Aquila aerodrome" in good condition with unidentified aircraft in the corner (BH) provided valuable intelligence for future tactical strikes.
* Tactical Interdiction: On November 1, 1943, Allied ground forces were pushing against the Bernhardt Line. Light bomber squadrons like No. 21 S.A.A.F. were tasked with destroying the infrastructure—bridges, roads, and rail lines—that the Germans relied on for their elastic defense.
* Intelligence Gathering: The detailed observations of enemy vehicle movements (MET) on the roads around Antrodoco and the presence of a "large Biplane" at the Tortorella station highlight the secondary role of these bombing missions as high-altitude reconnaissance.

34
The date written in the 'Date' column to verify the document is 1st Nov 43.
Transcription: 276-2__34.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A.)
Sheet No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 430
Date. 1st Nov 43
Squadron. 2nd Operation 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores
8 Mk.4; 3 Mk.3A; 1 Mk.3
Aircraft No. )
Aircraft Letter. ) As per list
Captain. LT/COL BRITZ. DFC
Crew. LT BOOYSE
Time Up. 1501 A Hrs 1st A/C
Time Down. 1730 A Hrs Last A/C
Total Time. 27 Hours
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA
Type of Cloud. —
Amount of Cloud. —
Base of Cloud. —
Visibility. Hazy over Islands otherwise good
General Weather. Good
Map or Chart Reference.
CHIETI 1:500,000
NE/42/14
Target or Duty. Medium level bombing
ATTACK ON A M/V IN A BAY NEAR SPLIT (YUGOSLAVIA)
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| — | BASE | A/B |
| 5000 | FOGGIA | Rendezvous with fighters, 4 P40's |
| 5000 | " | s/c 019º M Direct to Target |
| 11500 | SPLIT BAY | BOMBS DROPPED ON SHIPPING IN BAY |
| 9000 | Target Area | s/c 199º M Direct to Base |
| 3000 | BASE | |
| | BASE | Landed |
| | | Last A/C Landed (Flag Path) |
(Sgd) [unclear] Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, SAAF
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF: South African Air Force.
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* Mk.: Mark (designating the version of the aircraft).
* LT/COL: Lieutenant Colonel.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* LT: Lieutenant.
* A/C: Aircraft.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* M/V: Merchant Vessel.
* A/B: Airborne.
* s/c: Steered course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lieutenant Colonel J.F. "Jack" Britz, D.F.C.: The Officer Commanding (OC) of No. 21 Squadron, SAAF. Britz was a highly decorated leader who frequently led his crews personally on dangerous operations, as seen in this cross-Adriatic strike.
* Lieutenant Booyse: Acted as the crew member (likely observer/navigator) for the Commanding Officer on this flight. He is also noted on the crew manifest for the morning mission on the same day, indicating a very high operational tempo for the aircrews.
* Location Information and Modern Context:
* Tortorella Landing Ground: The squadron's base in the Foggia plain, Italy. Today, the area is largely agricultural, located near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* Split, Yugoslavia: Now Split, Croatia. During WWII, this strategic Adriatic port was a vital logistics hub for German forces in the Balkans. * Foggia: Used as the rendezvous point for fighter escort.
* Historical Context:
* Balkan Theatre Interdiction: This mission, flown on the afternoon of November 1, 1943, represents a significant expansion of the squadron's role. While the morning's mission focused on tactical targets in central Italy, this strike crossed the Adriatic to attack German merchant shipping (M/V) in occupied Yugoslavia.
* Escort and Protection: The formation was escorted by 4 P40's (Kittyhawks or Warhawks), likely from the Desert Air Force (DAF). Fighter protection was essential for these long-range daylight strikes where the Martin Baltimore bombers were vulnerable to German interceptors based along the Dalmatian coast.
* Operational Strain: This was the "2nd Operation" for the squadron on November 1st, a clear indication of the pressure to disrupt Axis supplies following the Allied landings in Italy and the ongoing partisan struggle in Yugoslavia. The total time of "27 Hours" likely refers to the cumulative operational flying time for the twelve aircraft involved.

35
The verification date for the target image 276-2__35.jpg is 1st Nov 43.
Transcription: 276-2__35.jpg
BA: 250 Ft long M/V(reported smoking) in position 43º 30 N. and 16º 30 E.
near SPLIT (YUGOSLAVIA)
BB: 1618 A Hrs
BC: Medium level bombing. 11,000' Course 040º Speed 210 IAS
62 x 250 G.P. 47 Dets. 27 Pistols
2 x 500 M.C. 47 Dets. 27 Pistols
3 x 250 G.P. 47 Dets. 28 Pistols
(1 x 250 G.P. 47 Det. 27 Pistol, hung up)
BD: Formation leader sighted vessel lying close in to the shore in the
bay immediately NORTH WEST of SPLIT. The vessel was smoking. The
attack was delivered by individual Box Leaders in pattern. First
Box overshot target but scored hits on jetty and buildings on shore.
The second Box scored two hits on vessel causing flames and an
increase in the volume of smoke coming from ship.
BE: L/A/A from SPLIT and SOLIN. Moderate inaccurate for height.
One observer noticed trailer of white smoke coming up from TROGIR
did NOT see explosion in air.
BF: NIL
BG: Verticals taken of bomb bursts during bombing run.
BH: In U7825 (ORONOTE) 10,000 Naval? vessel stationary
At Z7908 M/V of 7000 Tons stationary. One ship NORTH WEST of town
One half submerged hulk? immediately NORTH WEST of target with
previous Squadron's bomb bursts around it.
AIRCRAFT AND CREW LIST.
356Z L/COL BRITZ DFC. LT BOOYSE 2/Lts HARRISON & PICKUP
426J LT MURMAN LT WALTERS F/SGT ODENDAAL SGT STEWART
341L LT WILLMOTT LT BORCHERDS F/SGT LOOTS F/SGT WALBRIDGE
586B CAPT SAUNDERS P/O SMALLMAN LT POTGIETER SGT EARP-JONES
441F LT FROST LT LAMBERT F/SGT CARTER SGT ALLEN
387R LT RICHARDS LT DE CONNICK F/SGT ROBBERTSE SGT MCCRINDLE
467D CAPT SMIT LT KAY 2/LT PURDON SGT SCHOOMBIE
181Y MAJ. COULL LT ROSE F. F/SGT PERKINS F/SGT VAN ROOYEN
445U LT HARGRAVE LT REES F/SGT JENSEN F/SGT VALENTINE
240O CAPT DUGMORE LT MASTERS F/SGT MAASDORP F/SGT ROGERS
383W LT GREDER LT MCARAVEY F/SGT GREYLING F/SGT LEISCHING
181T LT BENNETT LT HARLE F/SGT STRYDOM SGT JENKINSON
Transcriber's Notes
Expanded Abbreviations
* BA / BB / BC / BD / BE / BF / BG / BH: Standard Royal Air Force (R.A.F.) reporting codes for Target, Time, Weapons, Narrative, Enemy Opposition, Losses, Photography, and General Observations.
* M/V: Merchant Vessel.
* IAS: Indicated Air Speed.
* G.P. / M.C.: General Purpose / Medium Capacity (bomb types).
* Dets. / Pistols: Detonators and mechanical firing mechanisms (Pistols).
* L/A/A: Light Anti-Aircraft fire.
* L/COL / MAJ / CAPT / LT / P/O / 2/LT: Lieutenant Colonel / Major / Captain / Lieutenant / Pilot Officer / Second Lieutenant.
* F/SGT / SGT: Flight Sergeant / Sergeant.
Observations on Individuals
* Lieutenant Colonel J.F. "Jack" Britz, D.F.C.: The Officer Commanding (OC) of No. 21 Squadron. Britz led this long-range strike into Yugoslavia personally in aircraft 356Z. This was the squadron's second operational mission of the day, following a morning strike in Italy, demonstrating his tireless leadership style.
* Lieutenant Booyse: Flew both missions on November 1st with the OC, serving as his observer/navigator.
* Captain Saunders: Leading aircraft 586B. His crew includes Pilot Officer Smallman, who usually flew as Britz’s regular observer, indicating a crew reshuffle for this specific long-range sortie.
* Major Coull and Captain Dugmore: Recurring senior pilots in the squadron's mission lists, here leading sub-formations (boxes) to execute the "pattern" attack described in the narrative.
Location Information and Historical Context
* Split, Yugoslavia (Modern Split, Croatia): A major port city on the Dalmatian coast. In late 1943, Split was a critical logistics hub for German forces attempting to suppress the Yugoslav Partisan resistance and maintain control of the Adriatic.
* Solin and Trogir: Coastal towns neighboring Split. The observation of Light Anti-Aircraft fire (L/A/A) from Solin and suspicious white smoke from Trogir highlights the density of Axis defensive positions in the area.
* Operation Avalanche Aftermath: Following the Allied invasion of Italy, German forces moved aggressively to secure the Balkans. This cross-Adriatic strike by 21 Squadron's Martin Baltimore bombers was part of a larger campaign to disrupt German maritime supply lines aiding their occupation forces.
* Tactical Success: The narrative records a successful strike, noting hits on buildings and two direct hits on the 250-foot merchant vessel, which intensified the ship's fires and smoke. The intelligence gathered (BH) regarding other large vessels and submerged hulks provided immediate data for subsequent attacks in the Split Bay area.

36
The date written in the 'Date' column to verify the correct document is 2 Nov 43.
Transcription: 276-2__36.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A.)
Sheet No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 431
Date. 2 Nov 43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores
1 Mk.3; 3 Mk.3A; 8 Mk.4
Aircraft No. )
Aircraft Letter. ) See over
Captain. MAJOR STUART
Crew. LT PAWSON
Squadron leader
Time Up. 1005 A Hrs 1st A/C
Time Down. 1251 A Hrs Last A/C
Total Time. 31.00 Hrs
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA
Type of Cloud. Cu. (FOGGIA-BENEVENTO & LEPINI Mtns)
Amount of Cloud. 5/10
Base of Cloud. Tops 3/5000'
Visibility. Good
General Weather. Good
Map or Chart Reference.
St.Cu S.W. NAPLES & S.E. Target
7000'
1:500000 NAPLES NE
1:500000 ROMA NE
1:100000 Sheet 152
Target or Duty. RR M/Y COLLEFERRO 9170490
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| 05 | TORTORELLA | A/B |
| 25 3000 | FOGGIA | s/c CASERTA |
| 45 8000 | CASERTA | Picked up fighters |
| 54 9000 | CASERTA | s/c LAKE FOGLIANO (Followed Coast) |
| 08 14000 | LAKE FOGLIANO | s/c Target |
| 26 13000 | TARGET | Bombed |
| 30 10000 | LAKE FOGLIANO | s/c CASERTA (Following Coast) |
| 52 8000 | CASERTA | s/c TORTORELLA |
| 47 3000 | TORTORELLA | |
| 10 | | Landed |
| 51 | | Last Aircraft Landed |
(Sgd) [unclear] Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, S.A.A.F.
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF / S.A.A.F.: South African Air Force.
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* Mk.: Mark (referring to the aircraft version).
* LT: Lieutenant.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* Cu / St.Cu: Cumulus / Stratocumulus (cloud types).
* Mtns: Mountains.
* SW / SE: Southwest / Southeast.
* RR M/Y: Railroad Marshalling Yard.
* A/B: Airborne.
* s/c: Steered course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Major Charles Stuart: Acted as the Squadron Leader and mission Captain for this 12-aircraft strike. Stuart was a mainstay of 21 Squadron's operational leadership during the Italian campaign, frequently leading large-scale tactical raids.
* Lieutenant B.F. Pawson: Served as the observer/navigator for Major Stuart. He is consistently paired with Stuart during the unit's high-tempo operations throughout October and November 1943.
* Location Information and Modern Context:
* Colleferro Marshalling Yard: Located south of Rome, this was a vital industrial and rail hub. The target coordinate 9170490 pinpointed the yard used for trans-shipping military supplies.
* Tortorella Landing Ground: The squadron's home base in the Foggia plain, Southern Italy. Today, it has largely reverted to agricultural use near the modern Foggia "Gino Lisa" Airport.
* Lake Fogliano: A coastal lake used as a navigational waypoint to allow the formation to follow the coast and avoid the heavier anti-aircraft concentrations inland. It remains part of the Circeo National Park today.
* Caserta: Used as the rendezvous point to "Pick up fighters". The Royal Palace of Caserta served as the Allied Force Headquarters (AFHQ) during much of the Italian campaign.
* Historical Context:
* The Drive to Rome: Flown on November 2, 1943, this mission was part of the Allied effort to break the Bernhardt Line. By striking the rail yards at Colleferro, No. 21 Squadron sought to sever the German supply lines feeding the defensive fronts south of Rome.
* Tactical Route Selection: The narrative (Following Coast) indicates a deliberate tactical choice to approach the target via the Tyrrhenian coast. This reduced the risk from mountain-top flak batteries and allowed for a more precise navigation to the target area at 13,000 feet.
* Combined Air Power: The mission's success relied on a coordinated rendezvous with fighter escorts at Caserta, protecting the Martin Baltimore bombers from Luftwaffe interceptors while over enemy-contested territory in Central Italy.

37
The verification date for the target image 276-2__37.jpg is 2 Nov 43.
Transcription: 276-2__37.jpg
BA: RR M/Y COLLEFERRO 9170490
BB: 1126 A Hrs
BC: Medium level bombing 325º/13000'
24 x 500 M.C. 47 Dets 28 Pistols
36 x 250 G.P. " " "
BD: Target well identified - M/Y straddled. Few bombs seen to explode
those seen hit M/Y and among buildings S.W. of M/Y (Refining
plants) Small explosion seen among buildings with black smoke.
Some bombs NOT own among employees houses.
BE: NIL
BF: NIL
BG: Verticals of bomb bursts
BH: Train moving NORTH 3 miles N.W. of target
25 RR trucks stationery SEZZE JUNCTION
12 MET moving NORTH TERRACINA - CISTERNA
Approximately 20 MET moving SOUTH FROM COLLEFERRO
Large amount of dust from S. FELICE
12 a/c moved across track of own formation SOUTH of GAETA
approximately 1115 A Hrs.
CISTERNA LITTORIA aerodrome has runway EAST to WEST, turning
basins each end, buildings in N.W. corner, dispersal areas with
blast shelters SOUTH of runway. A/C seen NOT counted.
3 black specks thought NOT to be rocks between PONZA and
ZANNONE.
Freighter standing off ANZIO PT.
AIRCRAFT AND CREW LIST.
356Z MAJ. STUART LT PAWSON SGT FREESTONE LT HALL
445U LT HARGRAVE LT REES F/SGT JENSEN F/SGT VALENTINE
240O CAPT DUGMORE LT MASTERS F/SGT MAASDORP F/SGT ROGERS
167P CAPT SMIT LT KAY 2/LT PURDON A/SGT SCHOOMBIE
383W LT ROBERTSON LT HANNING F/SGT DU PLESSIS F/SGT LEISCHING
181T LT BENNETT LT HARLE F/SGT STRYDOM SGT JENKINSON
437H MAJ ORD LT HODGES F/SGT WALKER F/SGT DEVENISH
467D LT LONGMORE LT KENDALL F/SGT THEUNISSEN SGT MACKAY
426J LT FROST LT NEL F/SGT CARTER SGT ALLEN
341L LT WILLMOTT LT BORCHERDS F/SGT LOOTS S/SGT WALBRIDGE
545A LT MURMAN LT WALTERS F/SGT KIDNEY SGT AIREY
586B LT WYPER 2/LT RUSHFORTH F/SGT EATON SGT MARAIS
Transcriber's Notes
Expanded Abbreviations
* BA / BB / BC / BD / BE / BF / BG / BH: Standard Royal Air Force (R.A.F.) reporting codes for Target, Time, Weapons, Narrative, Enemy Opposition, Losses, Photography, and General Observations.
* RR M/Y: Railroad Marshalling Yard.
* M.C. / G.P.: Medium Capacity / General Purpose (bomb types).
* Dets / Pistols: Detonators and mechanical firing mechanisms (Pistols).
* S.W. / N.W. / S.E. / S. / E. / W.: Southwest / Northwest / Southeast / South / East / West.
* MET: Motor Enemy Transport.
* a/c / A/C: Aircraft.
* MAJ / CAPT / LT / 2/LT: Major / Captain / Lieutenant / Second Lieutenant.
* F/SGT / SGT / A/SGT / S/SGT: Flight Sergeant / Sergeant / Acting Sergeant / Staff Sergeant.
Observations on Individuals
* Major Charles Stuart: Leading the formation (FL) in aircraft 356Z. Stuart was a senior operational leader in 21 Squadron, S.A.A.F., frequently commanding the unit's largest tactical raids during the push toward Rome.
* Major Ord: Leading a sub-formation (Box Leader) in aircraft 437H. Ord was another veteran pilot whose presence as a box leader ensured stable formation bombing in the face of variable Mediterranean weather.
* Lieutenant Longmore: Flying in aircraft 467D. Longmore is noted in squadron orders from late October as requiring a dental parade, highlighting the mundane administrative needs of crews even during peak operational tempo.
Location Information and Historical Context
* Colleferro, Italy: Located approximately 30 miles southeast of Rome. In 1943, it was a critical industrial center, home to a large explosives and chemical plant (the "Refining plants" mentioned in BD). Today, Colleferro remains an industrial hub, notably involved in the aerospace industry.
* Cisterna di Latina (Cisterna Littoria): The observation (BH) of the aerodrome and its East-West runway provided critical intelligence. Cisterna was a major battleground later in the campaign during the breakout from the Anzio beachhead.
* Anzio and the Pontine Islands: The mention of a freighter off Anzio and "black specks" near Ponza and Zannone illustrates the squadron’s incidental role in maritime reconnaissance. This intelligence was vital for Allied naval planning as they prepared for future amphibious operations.
* Tactical Interdiction (The Drive on Rome): On November 2, 1943, Allied forces were engaged in breaking the Bernhardt Line. No. 21 Squadron's Martin Baltimore bombers were tasked with severing the rail links (marshalling yards) that allowed the German 10th Army to reinforce their mountain defenses with supplies from the Rome area.
* Precision and Collateral: The narrative (BD) highlights the effort to be precise, noting that bombs hit the industrial yards and refining plants while avoiding "employees houses," a common concern in tactical bombing of populated industrial zones.

38
The date written in the 'Date' column to verify the correct document is 3 Nov. 43.
Transcription: 276-2__38.jpg
R.A.F. Form 441 A.
SORTIE REPORT
(Part A.)
Sheet No. 1
Oprep. Ref. No. 432
Date. 3 Nov. 43
Squadron. 21 SAAF
No. of Aircraft. 12 Baltimores
8 Mk.4. 2 Mk.3A. 2 Mk.3
Aircraft No. )
Aircraft Letter. ) As per list
Captain. LT/COL. BRITZ. DFC
Crew. LT. BOOYSE
Time Up. 0905 A Hrs 1st A/C
Time Down. 1045 A Hrs Last A/C
Total Time. 15 Hours
Aerodrome or L.G. TORTORELLA
Type of Cloud. Cu.
Amount of Cloud. Thin layer 5/6000 Tops
Base of Cloud. On hills
Visibility. Very good over target
General Weather. Good
Map or Chart Reference.
NAPOLI 1:500,000
Sheet NE 40/14
Target or Duty. Medium level bombing attack on Road Junction at H029479 (ALFEDENA)
| Height. | Place. | Narrative. |
|---|---|---|
| 09 | BASE | A/B |
| 05 5000 | FOGGIA | s/c CAMPOBASSO with 4 Spitfires as escort |
| 56 12000 | CAMPOBASSO | s/c Target (ALFEDENA) |
| 14 12600 | ALFEDENA | Bombs dropped on target Co. 255º |
| 15 12000 | ALFEDENA | s/c TRIVENTO |
| 32 10000 | TRIVENTO | s/c FOGGIA |
| 40 1000 | BASE | Over Base |
| 45 | BASE | Last aircraft landed |
(Sgd) J. Booyse Capt.
SIO 21 Squadron, S.A.A.F.
Transcriber's Notes
* Expanded Abbreviations:
* R.A.F.: Royal Air Force.
* SAAF / S.A.A.F.: South African Air Force.
* Oprep. Ref. No.: Operational Report Reference Number.
* Mk.: Mark (referring to the aircraft version).
* LT/COL: Lieutenant Colonel.
* DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross.
* LT: Lieutenant.
* L.G.: Landing Ground.
* Cu.: Cumulus (cloud type).
* A/B: Airborne.
* s/c: Steered course.
* Co.: Course.
* SIO: Senior Intelligence Officer.
* Sgd: Signed.
* Observations on Individuals:
* Lieutenant Colonel J.F. "Jack" Britz, D.F.C.: The Officer Commanding (OC) of No. 21 Squadron, SAAF. Britz was a highly decorated leader known for personally leading his crews on hazardous missions. He is listed as the Captain for the formation during this strike on Alfedena.
* Captain J. Booyse: Booyse served as the crew (observer/navigator) for the OC during this flight and also signed th
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