21 Squadron War Diary
1224 hrs Biferno, Italy
The burial of Capt. v.d. Riet, the pilot who was killed the previous day, took place at the British Cemetry of TERMOLI. From reports received, it appeared that the aircraft went into a spin and the pilot was caught in the propellers when baling. The parachute was cut and his body badly mutilated. The death of Capt. v.d. Riet was a great blow for the Squadron as he was a good pilot and very popular with all ranks.Thirteen aircraft took off at 12.24 hours to bomb GIULIANOVA Railway Station. One aircraft returned shortly after take off, due to intercom. trouble. No. 2 box undershot the target as they bombed before the leader. Hits were scored on the harbour and possibly on the railway line; no rail movements were observed. There was not any sign of shipping in the harbour. Slight heavy and light Ack Ack was encountered. All aircraft landed safely. Sortie Report No. 569.Capt. Duby (pilot), Lieut. Williams (A.G.) and five other gunners reported for duty.