Metz, France

1 Jun 56

Work finished on the installation of a sprinkler system for the roof of the Ops Building. It is hoped that the cooling effected by radiation will do much to reduce the stifling heat of the Ops Room. The cooling system installed has no air exchange capability and is already known to be less than 50% adequate in its cooling capacity. Other projects completed and effective this date are the laying of a concrete path in the covered walk way between the Ops and Admin Buildings, and the final adjustments to and acceptance of the IBM master and slave clock systems.

Armed guards, dispatched to the power plant area to investigate a report of unauthorized personnel in the area, discovered the intruders to be a French family on a picnic.

An F-86 (Stopgap Juliet 2) in emergency was detected by this unit in the Phalsbourg area and was recovered safely at his base, Zweibrucken, with less than 200 pounds of fuel remaining.

Bad weather caused the diversion of Zulu sections from Marville and Zweibrucken to Grostenquin early in the day. Conditions improved later and Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" was run in the morning and Exercise "Track Toil" during the afternoon. The Type to was taken out of service for 15 minutes for emergency maintenance. The roadway connecting 1 Air Div HQ and the main site, with a branch to the new power house, has been resurfaced with macadam. The previous surface, earth and gravel, had become so rough and rutted that it was almost impassable. Traffic during the resurfacing operation was routed via the Strasbourg highway and the Jury Road. Colonel Bender with three USAF officers and three civilians, all from USAF HQ Pentagon, visited the site and were given the familiarization tour.

G/C Trites (RCAF) and Major Kelly (USAF) both from CE Branch, COMAIRCENT, visited the site for familiarization. Live scramble against Track 537. No RCAF aircraft involved. Target faded prior to intercept by USAF interceptors. Type 80 off for special maintenance from 1907Z for remainder of day.

Exercise "Argus" was postponed and Zulu practice flights were restricted owing to bad weather.

Normal operations all day – night flying by 2 (F) Wing.

Little activity in forenoon due to poor weather – normal operations in afternoon.

Four aircraft from 4 (F) Wing (Stylus Alfa) handed over to Boxcar (02/451 ECTA) for an exercise with the French Air Force.

Little activity – poor weather. Exercise "Track Toil" and "Tuesday Scrimmage" cancelled. The 60 KVA Blackstone diesel which had been rented for use as an emergency power supply for the Modulator Building was returned to the UK.

Site testing for the new power plant commenced and continued until 15 Jun. The power plant consists of two 1,600 HP English Electro diesels each capable of supplying 1,000 KVA. Four storage tanks each of 5,000 gallons capacity are situated underground close to the brick building which houses the plant.

The Canadian Ambassador to France, His Excellency Jean Desy, accompanied by his family, and Mr. K Lorrain, President of the Banque Canadienne Nationale, visited the Unit together with the AOC, 1 Air Division. The group visited the Modulator building, Ops Room, and Radar office, spending approximately 40 minutes at the site. Exercise "Argus " held this date. Sections under this unit’s control intercepted five of the six exercise tracks. Flight following afforded to 3 (F) Wing aircraft on night flying missions.

Exercise "Track Toil" held this date – only partially successful.

Weather poor, little operational activity.

19 Jun 56

Exercise "Track Toil" and normal Zulu operations this date.

This unit recovered an aircraft in distress (Sailor 32) at Etain. Otherwise normal operations.

Exercise "Track Toil" and normal Zulu operations.

Normal routine operations were interrupted by two flame-outs today; one aircraft from Marville relit successfully; the other from Soellingen forced landed at Lahr. The semi-annual officers promotion list was released in the morning. 61 Squadron officers fared as follows:

Random Flights "A", "B", "C", "D", "E", "F", and "H" arrived at 1 (F) Wing comprising a total of 24 F-86 MK VI and 2 T-33 aircraft. Word was received that six 50 caliber Browning air-cooled machine guns are available for issue to the Squadron. Specialist officers from 1 Air Division HQ will assist in siting and installing the weapons which are intended for LAA defence. Two-coil accordion type barbed wire was installed around the outside of the perimeter track of the main site to afford additional protection against trespassers.

RCAF Zulu sections were put on continuous patrol near the ADIZ at the request of 12AF ACC in view of increased activity on the other side of the Iron Curtain. Operations were otherwise normal. As the result of a new policy which gives 1 Air Division HQ greater responsibility on controlling unit working establishments, the CO requested that all ME equipment, and positions for ME Technicians, AFP, Sup Techs, Cooks, FSA, GD, and civilian cleaners which were deleted from the Squadron Establishment effective 1 Jan be restored. 1 Air Div HQ agreed to establish AFP and PPOps only. A serious situation will arise during the summer of 1957 when 14 radar technicians are due to be repatriated, six of them in June alone. Training of replacements presents the main problem and attempts are being made to arrange factory courses at Decca Radar and Marconi in England. The first anniversary of the official opening of the Squadron passed unmarked by any special ceremony. Arrangements are being made to hold a Squadron dance on 20 Jul 56.

Flying at Zweibrucken was restricted as a result of suspected oxygen contamination. Flying was resumed later when investigation proved the oxygen supply to be pure.

Inbound USAF F-100 aircraft from the USA tracked to Bitburg AFB. Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" held with good results.

Eighteen French Air Force Ouragans intercepted by 3 (F) Wing aircraft. RAF Bomber Command aircraft in distress intercepted and diverted to 3 (F) Wing.

Exercise "Argus" – successful. Aircraft in emergency recovered into Bitburg by Yellowjack. Second aircraft emergency, this time at 4 (F) Wing, flame-out and successful re-light. Approximately 100 B-47 aircraft on round robin flight observed by this unit. Emergency channels monitored for assistance if required by the bomber crews. Information received that 212076 F/O JR Vickers, AS/FtrC, is transferred to the Squadron effective 7 Aug 56. Approval obtained for sending controllers to Whellus AFB, Tripoli, for lead collision course training. Officers to proceed on TD as follows:

Civilians – 2 female civilian cleaners.

RCAF aircraft from 4 (F) Wing were scrambled or diverted for a total of six times for unknown tracks originating in the Iron Curtain area. All tracks identified prior to interception. Exercise "Track Toil" held this date.

4 (F) Wing aircraft scrambled after a live target in the ADIZ – identified as a Sabena Airliner off course.

Normal operations.

RCAF aircraft from both 2 and 4 (F) Wings were involved in live scrambles this date on unknown tracks which were identified prior to interception. Considerable activity on the east side of the Iron Curtain, and as a consequence, a Combat Air Patrol was maintained all day on this side of the border.

Exercises "Tuesday Scrimmage" and "Track Toil" cancelled due to poor weather. This unit tracked a high flying aircraft (over 65,000 feet) from Rhine Main area till it disappeared well east of the Iron Curtain. Suspect this to be the NACA experimental aircraft referred to previously (reference 16 Jun 56 entry).

Weather poor- little activity.

Eight RAF Hunters intercepted by RCAF fighters from 1 and 3 (F) Wings. The first annual overhaul of the Type 80 radar was commenced at 2000Z and continued until 0800Z the following day. This part of the overhaul was completed by service technicians.

Poor weather – little activity. F/O JR Vance, GDefO, attended a one week Demolition Course at 4 (F) Wing.

W/C Kusiar, RCAF, Intelligence Division, SHAPE, was briefed by the Commanding Officer on the Type 80. Exercises "Tuesday Scrimmage" and "Track Toil" conducted this date – both highly successful. In addition, 3 (F) Wing aircraft scrambled against a gaggle of Mysteres from the French Air Force and surveillance provided to 1 (F) Wing aircraft enroute to Rabat for air firing.

Annual overhaul of Type 80 radar by Decca technicians put the main search gear out of operation for eight hours.

Continuing maintenance by Decca technicians again put the Type 80 out of operation for eight hours. Operations limited due to marginal weather conditions. This unit recovered a USAF T-33, number 29695, at Chaumont airfield. Aircraft was lost, had an unserviceable compass and was very low on fuel.

Annual overhaul of Type 80 completed and the equipment is judged to be in very good shape after its first full year of operation. Two Norwegian AF officers (names not recorded) visited the site and were briefed by the Commanding Officer. W/C Fleming and S/L Evans, AFHQ/AMTS/1 visited the site to discuss supply problems with the CTSO. A/Cpl. KC Plumb appeared before the Commanding Officer on four charges under Sec. 118, NDA. He elected trial by court martial and F/O WD Hawke was directed to prepare a synopsis of evidence.

Normal Zulu operations with night flying from 2 (F) Wing.

S/L P Hyatt, AAFCE, discussed MK 10 IFF with the Commanding Officer.

Exercise "Track Toil", Zulu practice scrambles and night flying from 3 (F) Wing kept this unit very busy this date.

Captain Woulfe, USAF, 807 Tac Con WG, Landstuhl and five Norwegian AF trainees visited the Squadron and were briefed by F/O Paige. G/C Fenton, AMTS/CE, visited the unit for discussions with F/L JG Ford, Acting CTSO. Live scramble ordered from 4 (F) Wing against a suspicious track in Iron Curtain area; the track faded prior to intercept. Practice interceptions between RCAF and Premier CATAC aircraft conducted during the afternoon and night flying conducted with aircraft from 3 (F) Wing.

Two live scrambles conducted against aircraft from 3 (F) Wing on tracks originating in the Iron Curtain area. Both tracks identified friendly.

F/L JG Ford proceeding to London, England, to discuss the training of radar technicians at Decca and Marconi.

Six USAF pilots from Toul-Rosiers AFB visited the Squadron for indoctrination briefing. It is intended that six pilots will visit the Squadron daily from 30 Jul to 3 Aug.

Normal operations with night flying from 3 (F) Wing. Two interceptions conducted against RAF Canberra aircraft overflying this unit’s area of radar coverage. USAF aircraft in emergency, lost and low on fuel, recovered at Chambley field by this unit. F/O JR Vance proceeded to Wheelus AFB, Tripoli, for Lead Collision Course training. 1 Air Division has been requested to supply one S/L and two F/L to fill establishment vacancies at this Squadron. Shortage of officers for the Duty Controller position necessitates the use of intercept controllers in manning this position. The names of 96 USAF officers of 21^st FB Wing, Chambley AFB, were received. These officers will visit the Squadron during August and the visits will be co-ordinated by the COpsO.

The cable duct and trench between the Radar Office and the MPS-14 on the circular road is completed.

Mr. Hagen, GE Depot, Nancy, discussed GE radar maintenance and terms of reference of his Company’s Technical Representatives with the CTSO.

F/L EL Dalton, 1 Air Div, SOPA Branch, visited the Squadron to discuss administration and problems in respect with airwomen with the CO, COpsO, and Adjutant.

Weather poor – little activity.

Zulu aircraft report communications jamming with foreign language and loud music on channels. Orders received from Air Division for the practice deployment of two squadrons from 4 (F) Wing to Damblain, France.

4 (F) Wing Zulu aircraft deployed to and landed at Damblain.

Back-up receivers for all VHF channels are now installed in additional trucks at the Receiver site. Accompanying antennae have also been erected.

First annual overhaul of the Fixed Coil equipment put the Squadron off the air for 9 hours and 50 minutes.

Readiness aircraft from 3 (F) Wing were scrambled against an unknown track detected in the ADIZ and headed west. The track faded prior to intercept in the Rhein Main traffic pattern and was suspected to be the NACA U-2. S/L DF McRae, RCAF exchange officer at the RAF School of Land/Air Warfare was briefed by S/L GF Ockenden, COpsO. Eighteen male FtrCops arrived on transfer from Canada.

Marginal weather conditions – limited operations.

A mid-air collision occurred during practice interceptions between Zulu aircraft from 1 and 3 (F) Wings. All available search aircraft, including a USAF SA-16 were dispatched to the area of the crash (GF2324). Aircraft located, both pilots killed. W/C SM Strange, Commanding Officer, proceeded on TD to AIRCENT, Fontainbleau, to attend a conference on Exercise "Argus". The Squadron has been allocated the former WD Wing of Barrack Block 14, plus approximately 20 beds in the new block (BB15) at the request of the Commanding Officer. Forty airmen were warned today by memo that they will be moved into quarters within the next 7 to 10 days and it is hoped eventually to have all single personnel living in barracks. Airmen are being moved in on the basis of seniority of service with the Squadron, juniors first.

Cpl. KC Plumb appeared before a Disciplinary Court Martial on one charge under Sec 118, NDA, at 1000 hours. He was found guilty and awarded a severe reprimand and a $100.00 fine. This was the first Court Martial involving a member of the Squadron. S/L GF Ockenden and F/L AA Davis visited RAF Stations Bard Hill and Neatishead and went on to London in company of the AOC, 1 Air Division, SASO, and SOTel to see the high power Type 80, the R-3 Building and the Decca Factory. Hamster 27 declared an emergency. He was lost and low on fuel but was recovered safely.

Brigadier General Taylor, USAF, visited the Squadron at 1730 hours and was given the familiarization tour by F/L TE Wallis.

Normal operations. The Type 80 radar went off the air at 2000Z for monthly maintenance.

F/O JR Vance has been instructed to return from Wheelus AFB, Tripoli, as training has not yet commenced. As a result, F/O DR Paige will proceed to Wheelus AFB 24 Sep in place of F/O D Dickson who will not be taking this training.

W/C SM Strange, Commanding Officer, proceeded on annual leave until 10 Sep. S/L GF Ockenden is Acting CO for the period.

An F-86 from Marville, BT 654 of 441 Squadron, was declared overdue at 1625Z. A civilian report received at 1715Z stated that an aircraft had crashed near the village of Aure. Subsequent investigation confirmed the location, EE3515, and the aircraft number, and revealed that the pilot was dead amongst the wreckage. Exercise "Track Toil" conducted in addition to a local exercise by pre-arrangement with the French Air Force.

Authority obtained from 1 Air Division HQ (their CP 134 22 Aug) to hire four civilian power plant operators for duty in the new power plant when it is activated 15 Sep 56. This action is necessitated by the personnel shortage in the PPOp trade. At approximately 2130Z, RAF sites reported five tracks, approximate position 5430N, 1830E, climbing in a racetrack pattern at 1,000 K until they disappeared out of HRI coverage at 60,000 feet plus. This information was received from the Duty Controller at 12AF ACC who stated that 2 ATAF was considering going to a pre-alert state of preparedness, and added that the Air Operations Centre at the ACC was considering similar action. Personnel of this unit were briefed at 2230Z of the possibility of a pre-alert but in the absence of further reports, the situation subsided and normal operations were resumed.

Considerable RCAF activity under this units control against overflying RAF bombers in addition to normal Zulu operations.

Movement into quarters achieved of maximum number possible. 50 beds in BB14 and 19 beds in BB15 are now occupied. One Sergeant and five Corporals have been moved in to maintain discipline.

The Minister of National Defence, the Honorable Ralph O Campney, accompanied by the Deputy Minister, Mr. FR Miller, Mr. Dunsday, Director of Public Relations, DND, and Brig Lawson, the SAC, visited the site after a briefing by the Acting CO at 1 Air Division Headquarters.

Landscaping of the whole area within the circular road has commenced. A French contractor has begun levelling of all ground in preparation for seeding and the terracing of all existing ditches. All ME vehicles are being stored in accordance with E080-1-9. Most of the vehicles are now dispersed on the hardstand at the rear of the Modulator Building and are all blocked up and have their batteries removed.

Poor weather – little activity.

Exercise "Track Toil" conducted this date with good results. Two aircraft emergencies detected by this unit but no assistance was necessary as both aircraft were under control of 12AF CRC. Surveillance provided to 4 (F) Wing aircraft from dusk to midnight.

Considerable activity detected in the buffer zone area. Live scrambles conducted by USAF and RCAF aircraft from 4 (F) Wing. The intercept was missed as a result of a late scramble request by 12AF ACC. Surveillance was provided to night flying aircraft from 2 (F) Wing. Work commenced on the installation of two additional Type 64 consoles and one 21 inch horizontal console in the Ops Room. All three HRIs are being moved to the platform along the east wall and the upper radar platform is being extended into the service ramp by approximately 12 inches. One T-64 console is being installed on the east end of the dais and the other is being placed in the former position of HRI #3. The 21 inch console is being placed on the extension to the upper radar platform.

All VHF transmitters now have back-up sets installed in trucks at the Transmitter sites with accompanying antennae erected. Power for both the TX and the RX sites is still being supplied by Caterpillar diesels, which are on loan to the Squadron, and have Lister units as standby equipment pending the activation of the main power house. 12AF ACC filed an ADIZ violation report against an F-86 of 4 (F) Wing. As usual, the pilot involved flatly denied ADIZ penetration, but the matter is being investigated nevertheless. Violations of this nature have been rare insofar as RCAF aircraft are concerned.

A day of negative investigations. Reported pistol shots in our transmitter site area were investigated in the early hours of the morning with no sign of intruders. Later in the day, Zulu aircraft were twice diverted to investigate alleged aircraft emergencies which proved to be false alarms in both instances.

Landscaping completed. Work commenced on the extension of the Vertical Plotting Board platform in preparation for the installation of the new Vertical Plotting Board, sections of which are confirmed as having been shipped. 12AF ACC reported considerable activity behind the Iron Curtain and intimated that "Live" scrambles would probably result. The activity diminished rapidly, however, and RCAF Zulu aircraft resumed their routine of practice scrambles. Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" carried out with good results. A troop carrier aircraft of the USAF declared emergency and was intercepted by 4 (F) Wing Zulu aircraft under this unit’s control. The emergency was successfully ended when, after having been escorted to Sandweiler Airport, Luxembourg, the aircraft had the field in sight and made a safe landing.

RCAF interceptors were kept busy under this unit’s control against multiple USAF B-57 tracks. In addition, RCAF Zulu aircraft took over and successfully intercepted a "Live" track while in the Rhein Main area, subsequent to this track being missed by USAF interceptors. Night flying by 3 (F) Wing continued until just short of midnight, which resulted in a full day for this unit. Channel # 3 installed with 12AF GCI Secondary (298.8 mcs) and operating satisfactorily.

Extension of Vertical Plotting Board platform completed. Exercise "Argus" scheduled this date but only partially completed due to weather. Normal Zulu operations conducted during daylight hours and flight following provided for night flying aircraft of 4 (F) Wing. Major General Robert M Lee, Commander 4 ATAF, visited the unit to observe the progress of Exercise "Argus". S/L GF Ockenden proceeded to the Ministry of Supply, London, for a conference on the new telephone installations. F/O’s de Bagheera, Laird, Nixon, Paige, and Zoltvany proceeded to Weisbaden, Germany for physiological training.

RCAF Zulu sections were given a live scramble against an inbound track at the request of 12AF ACC. Both sections made successful interceptions before 12AF ACC identified the track as a highly classified mission. It would appear that the NACA U-2, locally nicknamed, "The Beast" was airborne again. Standby power plant is now 40% complete and activation of the main power plant is expected in the first week of October.

Weather unfavourable – little activity.

W/C SM Strange re-assumed command of the Squadron vice S/L GF Ockenden on return from annual leave. F/O JR Vickers, AS/FtrC, reported in on transfer. F/O J de Bagheera reported to the 50^th Fighter Bomber Wing, USAF, at Toul Rosiere, France, to participate in escape and evasion exercise "Autumn Walk" which lasts until 15 Sep. Crew Chiefs exchange programme commenced this date with the arrival of three USAF NCOs for one week of cross training. Extension of upper radar platform completed. Normal Zulu operations with flight following for 4 (F) Wing night flying aircraft. Unit was temporarily out of commission for 16 minutes due to a power failure.

A/V/M JL Plant, RCAF, visited the site. F/L TE Wallis reported to the Air Ground Operations School at 12AF HQ, Ramstein, for the four day course. Exercise "Scan Plan" instituted. This is to be a daily calibration flight by two F-86 aircraft out to extreme range at an altitude of 40,000 feet to provide a performance check on not only radar and IFF coverage but also VHF communications. The first run provided the following figures:

A joint conference was held between Ops and Tech staffs today to determine the best procedures to be followed by Ops personnel in reporting equipment unserviceable and by Tech personnel in reporting equipment serviceable after maintenance. Also determined were the performance limits upon which serviceability and unserviceability would be established.

Arrangements were made for six FtrCops to proceed to 3 (F) Wing, Zweibrucken, for a five day meteorological course. Training is to consist of comprehensive briefing on meteorology and forecasting plus supervised participation in preparation and dissemination of meteorological information.

What at first appears to be a mass track (strength 100 plus, speed 60 to 100K, covering an area 60 NM in width and 130 NM in length) was later assumed to be a weather return. Personnel of this unit who are by now accustomed to the susceptibility of the Type 80 Linear Receiver to weather returns, were somewhat shaken by this phenomenon which affected also the Log Receiver of the Type 80 and the MPS-14 height finders. Only the MPS-11 back-up search and similar equipments at 12AF CRCs were unaffected. Work was completed overnight on the removal of three cross ties from the roof of the Ops Building. This work is also necessitated by the forthcoming installation of the large Vertical Plotting Board. Mr. Lunt of the British Ministry of Supply, and Mr. Quill of Marconi visited the site to inspect the progress of installation work on the new consoles in the Ops Room.

Mr. Coldwell, MP, visited the site. Normal day fighter operations with night flying from 4 (F) Wing.

Broadcast Control techniques were practiced today with a section of Zulu aircraft. Pilot’s reports indicated that the mission was successful.

Mr. Massey of the General Electric depot at Nancy visited the site to discuss the forthcoming annual overhaul of American equipment such as the MPS-14s and the MPS-11.

S/L GF Ockenden proceeded to Wheelus AFB, Tripoli, to monitor Lead Collision Course training. F/O H Czyz reported to the Air Ground Operations School at 12AF HQ, Ramstein for the four day course.

Mechanical jamming seen in the Stuttgart area today was part of a 12AF ECM mission. Operations were otherwise normal. Aircraft of 1 (F) Wing on night flying were afforded flight following.

Exercise "Stronghold" commenced. This exercise is a test of the air defences of the UK and Air Division aircraft are involved in fighter sweeps against the south-east coast of England. Yellowjack’s role is to provide flight following and to assist in the recovery of returning missions. "Stronghold" forms the preliminary phase of exercise "Whipsaw" which will commence 26 Sep 56. Air Division Operations Order 17/56 refers. Two RAF officers, F/L D Shelley and F/O HS Clarke are at the unit on temporary duty for the period of the exercise and have been provided with facilities at PPI No. 8 to enable them to tell raid information direct to the UK.

Exercise "Stronghold" continues. Plans and preparations for "Whipsaw" are being expedited at this unit.

Exercise "Stronghold" continued until 1500Z when Phase 1 was declared complete. Phase II of "Stronghold" will commence on 26 Sep.

As the date of "Whipsaw" approaches, definite information is still scarce. Briefings, in which the few available details were made known, were given in order to check the spread of rumours. A/C RB Whiting, AFHQ, visited the site for discussions concerning new construction. General GJM Chassin, FAF AIRCENT Defence Co-Ordinator, accompanied by Major General JH Van Giessem, RNAF, his deputy, and Major General Lee and General Mustin, visited the site for familiarization. F/O DR Paige reported to Wheelus AFB, Tripoli, for Lead Collision Course training. Captains Pautard, Dunard and Puchulu of the French Air Force reported in on TD as observers for exercise "Whipsaw".

All personnel are in a high state of anticipation as the formal declaration of the commencement of exercise "Whipsaw" is awaited. Final arrangements are almost completed – ground defence work and equipment are receiving top most priority.

At 0537Z information was received that 700 enemy aircraft were penetrating the 4 ATAF area. This information was closely followed by the declaration of a General Alert. Exercise "Whipsaw" was on. All personnel were called out and "Alert" plans went into effect with particular emphasis being placed on Ground Defence. All personnel were employed on 16 hour shifts, 12 hours of normal duty, four hours of ground defence duty and eight hours off. Fifty-two intercepts were conducted on a total of 159 exercise tracks during this first day in addition to which surveillance was afforded to 20 raids taking part in Phase II of "Stronghold".

Exercise "Whipsaw" continues. Twenty-one intercepts were made and a total of 77 aircraft intercepted. Eighty-one surveillance missions were conducted with RCAF aircraft on Phase II of "Stronghold". Proper messing facilities have been set up in the Canteen and round the clock service is being given as all personnel rotate through positions. Ground defence lectures and training are being given during daylight hours and work on the final wiring of weak spots in the perimeter fence is being done under supervision of SU Ground Defence NCOs. Women personnel are receiving First Aid lectures by day and are manning sentry posts along with the men during the hours of darkness. Morale is high and the unit is coping well with all eventualities thus far presented.

Unit involved in mop-up operations and returning to normal. Practice scrambles with Zulu aircraft all day.

The position of one WO2 FtrCop was deleted from the establishment and replaced by one WO2 Tel M Supt. (G).

Normal Zulu operations with night flying by 3 (F) Wing. Dr. Abrams, Scientific Advisor to the CAS, visited the site.

Aircraft under this units control on exercise "Scan Plan", a daily radar and VHF calibration run, were accused by 12AF of having penetrated the ADIZ but full investigation proved this to be false. Operations were otherwise normal.

Zulu sections of RCAF aircraft were used in cross training mission with F-100 aircraft of 12AF today. Pilot reports indicate that the F-100 is a "One Pass" aircraft which comes in low and pulls up using after-burner for the attack run and then continues, on afterburner, to climb away out of reach. On the few occasions when the F-100 stayed to fight it out they were comparatively easy meat for the more maneuverable F-86. Operations were at a good pace all day. F/O JR Vickers reported to the Air Ground Operations School at 12AF HQ, Ramstein, for the four day course.

The new vertical plotting board and height tote boards were installed today. The plotting board measures 10 feet by 10 feet as compared to the old boards dimensions of 6 feet by 7 feet, and is vastly superior for display. It is, like the tote boards made of plexi-glass and is illuminated by slim line fluorescent lights. Weather was poor all day and activity was light.

RCAF Zulu on a live scramble, at the request of 12AF ACC, intercepted a track which had originated in the ADIZ and identified it as being a DC-6 off course. An active day with night flying and Trade Advancement training at the cessation of flying.

12AF again claimed that an RCAF aircraft had violated the ADIZ, and this time they were right. The offending aircraft was on a navigation exercise from 4 (F) Wing and had declined GCI control. Identification was made by F-100s under control of a 12AF CRC. After an active day, night flying was cancelled because of the weather. Work commenced on the erection of a hut to enclose completely the Sheldon blowers which supply cooling and ventilation of radar equipment. The first cold night and memories of last winter when an inadequately heated Ops Room and Radar Office were subjected to blasts from those blowers, has prompted this unofficial piece of construction. The hut has been made as draft proof as possible in order that air exhausted from the radar equipment may be re-circulated and thus prevent undue cooling of either the Radar Office or the Ops Room.

Weather good, resulting in much activity all day with night flying ending at 2100 hours. 4 (F) Wing aircraft escorted an aircraft in emergency into Soellingen field for a safe landing.

Exercise "Argus" cancelled this morning owing to poor weather and activity slow all day as weather further deteriorated. Mr. Rein of the General Electric Company who has been at the site as a technical representative for 11 months left today to take up a new appointment in Italy.

Normal operations. The first pay parade to be held on the site took place today. This feature will save many hours of duty time and greatly reduce the headache of crew chiefs.

A practice alert was called at 1247Z today. This Squadron was the first unit in the Air Division to reach the status required by the stage of alert. Operations reverted to normal at 1530Z.

F/O FA Nixon reported to the 60^th Troop Carrier Wing, USAF, Dreux AFB, France for duty on an interrogation team in connection with an Escape and Evasion exercise held at that unit 15-20 Oct.

Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" between RCAF 2 (F) Wing and French Air Force. Good results.

Bad weather limited operations. Forty members of the Canadian Industrial Preparedness Association visited the site and were conducted on a familiarization tour by W/C Strange, S/L Ockenden, F/L’s Ford and Wallace and F/O Vine.

Exercise "Argus" cancelled due to unfavorable weather conditions. F/O J de Bagheera reported to Wheelus AFB, Tripoli, for Lead Collision Course instruction.

Heavy fog restricted operations. 807 Tac Con Wing, Landstuhl AFB, was informed that, owing to personnel shortages, the Crew Chiefs exchange program would be temporarily suspended. However, USAF units were welcomed to continue sending their NCOs to this Squadron for cross training.

421 Squadron, RCAF, based at Grostenquin and 94 Squadron, RAF, based at Celle, Germany have exchanged bases today for a period of one month. Yellowjack provided flight following to both squadrons during the changeover.

Electronic Jamming experienced this date. Flight of four fighters dispatched from 1 (F) Wing to investigate. Jamming source was a French Air Force C-119. Weather good all afternoon, considerable activity. The new frequency converter supply for the AN/MPS-11 and the AN/MPS-14 was tested today and supplied the electronic load for these equipments for two hours.

Unit visited by seven pilots from 4 (F) Wing. Normal familiarization tour with a Zulu practice scramble, control and recovery (GCI/GCA) for the benefit of the visitors. Otherwise normal operations.

RCAF Zulu aircraft from 2 (F) Wing were given a "LIVE" scramble against a track which originated in the ADIZ. 12AF, who requested the scramble, identified the track as "Friendly" prior to intercept and the Zulus reverted to a practice mission. A/V/M HAV Hogan, RAF, AOC 83 Group visited the site. A Sabotage warning message was received at 1055 hours and all applicable measures for the stage of alert were taken. The "All Clear" was received at 1200 hours. Annual overhaul of No. 3 MPS-14 height finder commenced. This work is being carried out by unit technicians and the field team from the General Electric depot, Nancy.

S/L RT Paul Air/Obs reported on transfer for duty as Senior Controller. Advice was received that F/O DE Popham AS/FtrC was transferred to the Squadron from 32 AC&W Squadron and would be reporting 11 Dec 56.

French Military authorities instituted a French ADIZ, which borders on Western Switzerland and extends through a portion of Southern France. This action is presumably taken in view of French implications in the Middle East. Notification was received that the arrival from Canada of 445 Squadrons 20 CF-100 aircraft would be delayed by weather en route. Mr. Elford and Dr. Eastwood of Marconi Wireless and Telegraph visited the site.

Arrival of CF-100 aircraft further delayed by fog in Iceland. Annual overhaul of No. 3 MPS-14 completed. Work involved necessitated the removal of the antenna and part of the pedestal.

Normal operations. Unit radar off for 30 minutes due to power changeover. Cpls. EM Mitchell and M Hawthorne were the first airwomen to proceed to 12AF units for cross training. A total of four other airwomen visited 604 AC&W Squadron USAF, during the month. A USAF ECM crew arrived to give lectures and demonstrations of all types of jamming and anti-jamming techniques. The visit which lasted four days was beneficial to all concerned: the Ops personnel received much needed familiarization with the effects of jamming; the technicians received practice in the employment of anti-jamming circuits; and the team, together with the technical officers and representatives, learned what could be done in the way of jamming the Type 80 and the effects of hitherto unemployed circuitry against such jamming. This date also saw the activation of the new power plant. The 50 cycle and 60 cycle diesel generators on the site have been shut down and the decrease in noise level is both appreciable and appreciated. Annual overhaul of No. 1 MPS-14 commenced this date.

ECM training was conducted throughout the day. Techniques employed were mechanical, electronic, and communications, of which the last named proved the most effective.

ECM lectures and demonstrations continued throughout the day.

Officers, airmen and airwomen from the Squadron taking part in the Armistice Day Parade at Support Unit totaled 70. The Squadron will also provide one flight for parade and inspection on the last Wednesday of each month along with personnel of Support Unit and Air Division HQ.

F/L JG Ford proceeded to 4 (F) Wing, Soellingen, to survey the possibilities of remoting aircraft control by means of telescramble circuits between 61 AC&W Squadron Ops Room and control towers at the four wings. A complete report is on file 61/S24-1. W/C Kehoe, the new Commanding Officer of RCAF Support Unit, Metz, paid his first visit to the site and was briefed by the Commanding Officer. The main power outlets were completed at the Transmitter Site and it was therefore no longer necessary to operate the Caterpillar APU. The Lister APUs are now used as standbys in the event of a failure at the main power house. FS Wynn, NCO i/c Radar Control, and GS Tunnell, NCO i/c Radar, exchanged positions today as the latter is expecting transfer shortly to No. 2 RCU, Toronto.

Exercise "Argus" conducted this date, together with IDF and AWF operations.

The final contest for the title of Miss Grey Cup, Europe, was held today at RCAF Support Unit, Metz. Squadron entries, Cpl. M Mitchell, LAW O Mazur, and LAW J Thomas, were escorted by S/L GF Ockenden, S/L RT Paul, and F/L JG Ford respectively, but none of them achieved the coveted crown.

Barbed wire knife-rest barriers to block the remaining gaps in the perimeter fence have been completed. Speed limit signs have been installed along the service road. Annual overhaul of No. 2 MPS-14 commenced.

Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" conducted with good results. Very busy day and plenty of night flying until midnight.

21 Nov 56

Another busy day with the weather holding good.

Annual overhaul of the AN/MPS-11 commenced. This proved to be the most tedious project of the program as the antenna tower had to be lowered to facilitate removal of the pedestal for replacement with a modified unit. Repeat performance of the cross-training mission between Ouragons and Sabres with one section of four each. Our pilots reported that the Sabre has a higher speed and ceiling but the Ouragon can "turn on a dime". Squadron personnel were among the first to attend the newly instituted two-day weapon handling course at Support Unit. One truck mobile receiver and one truck mobile transmitter complete with Lister Auxiliary Power Unit were returned to Supply Section, Support Unit, Metz for intended use at Naples in conjunction with the airlifting of UN Mission materiel into Egypt. Mess Hall kitchen installations have been completed. The old radar workshop has now been taken over as a canteen. A disposal pit for radioactive material has been made behind the Modulator Building.

S/L RT Paul reported to the Air Ground Operations School at 12AF HQ, Ramstein for the four day course. Owing to the shortage of controllers and increased commitments, no controllers will attend the Lead Collision Course at Wheelus AFB, Tripoli, until further notice. On the invitation of 61 AC&W Squadron, the monthly USAF AC&W Operations Officers Conference was held in the Chateau de Mercy, home of 1 Air Division HQ. Twenty-two USAF officers attended the two day conference and visited the site. The fly-past of three CF-100s, laid in honour of the visitors, was very impressive. F/L Wallis and F/O Symington proceeded to Wiesbaden for physiological training.

Word was received late in the afternoon that all F-86 aircraft in the Air Division were grounded until further notice because of fuel system troubles. Alert status sections were restricted to "Hot" or "Live" scrambles only, and the unit began relying on CF-100s and 12AF aircraft for control. The vagueness of the news was the result of an advisory signal, in which a fault in the bellows of the fuel flow control mechanism was pointed out, sent to all Wings without an information copy to the unit. Various interpretations were made at each of the Wings and confusion as to the operational effect appeared to continue until the end of the month. The power changeover was completed at the Receiver Site with the main power now being used in lieu of the Caterpillar APUs. The Lister APUs are now being used as standbys in the event of a mains power failure. F/O K Josey transferred by AFHQ to RCAF Station Foymount for contact training pending posting to Tyndall AFB.

Signed By:

SM Strange, W/C
Commanding Officer
61 AC&W Squadron