Operation

P O S T A G R A M O 2 197 : H.Q. R.A.F. M.E. From: S.I.O. 21 SQUADRON, S.A.A.F. Serial No. : 21 Sqdn/247 Date: 31 MAR 43 <u>OPREP No. 247 for period ending 1200 hrs. 31 MAR 43</u> A Dispersed A/C on SFAX EL MAOU L.G. B 18 Baltimores Mk.lll. C (1) Medium level bombing. (11) 8500 ft. (111) 0828 hrs. D (1) 98 x 250 lb. GP 43 Det. (Rods) 10 x 250 lb. DA No. 17 Pistol (1 - 18 Hrs.) Mk. 5. (11) Nil. (111) A formation of Bostons (12 and 24 Squadrons, S.A.A.F.) bombed the L.G. as the Baltimores made their run up. One fire was seen. Bombs were seen to burst along the Southern area of the L.G. The Baltimore leader's box bombed the centre of the L.G., bombs bursting from the centre into the trees among the A/C shelters. No.'s 2 and 3 boxes bombed the EAST and WEST dispersal areas respectively. Three fires were started, one in the Olive grove giving off a big flame and smoke. Bombs fell near an A/A post in the Olive grove NORTH of the L.G. and among 4 badly dispersed A/C. One burst was seen between two A/C 50 yards apart. The target was well covered by bomb bursts. Four to five fires were burning when the formation left. E One A/C slightly holed by A/A. F Nil. G Nil. H (1) 0650 hrs. (11) 46 hrs. 30 mins. J General weather fair. Rain over DJERBA ISLAND. Visibi- lity good. No cloud. K HAA intense but inaccurate. Battery of 5 HAA guns at a point immediately SOUTH of the L.G. One HAA gun firing from area SFAX NORTH L.G. Battery of HAA guns at trees NORTH of L.G. Battery of HAA guns at wadi near TU 7828. One HAA gun firing from the harbour area. COMM. Nil. T.O.O. 1200 hrs. 31 MAR 43. [Handwritten Signature] for Capt. S.I.O. 21 SQUADRON, S.A.A.F.