Friday, 30 July 1943 — War Diary

21 Squadron War Diary

Hal Far, Malta

A formation of 12 Baltimores led by Major JANDRELL attacked gun positions SOUTH of ADRANO Village and S.W. of BIANCAVILLA. The target was covered in excellent pattern by No. 1 box and bombs fell among dug-in positions. No. 2 box scored hits on rail track. NO A.A encountered. " Oprep " No.357, Sortie Report and Crew List.

Transcriber's Notes

S.W: South-West.
A.A: Anti-Aircraft.

Historical Context &

Closing the Ring on Etna (July 29th & 30th): The squadron's missions focused intensely on the towns surrounding Mount Etna, which formed the defensive belt for the retreating Axis forces (the Etna Line).

Santa Maria di Licodia (St Marie Di Licodia):

First Show (10:05): Capt. Stuart led 12 aircraft to bomb roads leading into Santa Maria di Licodia (southwest of Etna). Hits on buildings and roads aimed to block Axis movement. The leader evaded "Moderate A.A." from the nearby strongholds of Paterno and Adrano.

Second Show (14:27): Major Cormack attempted a follow-up raid on the same village ("St Marie Di Licordia" [sic]), but was forced back by "unfavourable weather." Cloud cover around Mount Etna often hampered operations despite the Mediterranean summer.

Typographical Errors: