Grostenquin, France

1 Jan 53

Weather – CAVU. Nil flying. Station on a stand down for New Years day.

Weather – overcast and cold, very poor visibility. Nil flying.

Weather – clear and cold. Stand down. Nil flying.

Weather – overcast and cold. Stand down. Nil flying.

Weather – low cloud and haze. Some flying took place. Two Bristols arrived from England with personnel returning from Christmas Leave. Commandant Jaco Andrieux, DFC and Bar, Croix de Guerre with 13 Palms, Silver Star, Cross of Liberation, from 4 ATAF, and ex Wing Commander (RAF) and at present Fighter Operations Officer for 4 ATAF visited the station. Three aircraft were temporarily lost during flying operations, however, all landed safely on different airfields.

Weather – overcast and cold. RCAF Ensign was presented to Commandant Jaco Andrieux for presentation to General Strothers of 4 ATAF Headquarters in Landsberg, Germany. S/L Ferguson, F/L Stantial, Mr. Greenleaf and F/L Freeman arrived from Air Division on a staff visit. F/L Harvey assumed command of 416 (F) Squadron in the absence of S/L MacKay. Several flights were made during the day.

Weather – frost, CAVU. Nil flying.

Weather – low cloud and haze. Nil flying. The following arrived from Air Division on a staff visit: G/C Cox, W/C Drake, F/L Traxler, F/O Conlin and S/L Hayes.

Weather – CAVU. Some flying carried out. W/C Walton and WO Carter arrived from Air Division on Armament matters. F/O R Turgeon attached to French Air Force visited the station on a routine visit.

Weather – VFR. Nil flying. G/C Pollard, W/C Walsh and W/C Edwards, S/L Gibbs, F/L Thorneycroft, F/O Gagne departed by road for No 1 FAF Division at Lahr, Germany to attend an official reception.

Weather – frost, CAVU. Nil flying. G/C AC Hull, new Commanding Officer of 3 (F) Wing, arrived at 2 (F) Wing HQ and proceeded by road to Zweibrucken, Germany.

Weather – CAVU, fog in the morning, cleared later. Some flying carried out. Trailers arriving on camps. Malcolm Courtenay, a War correspondent, gave an excellent illustrated lecture on Korea, Japan and 1951 JRAC Show at Farnsborough, England.

Weather – CAVU. Some flying. Lt. Col. McFarlane of the 2nd ATAF at Bad Eilsen visited the unit. Also, F/L Traxler on Telecom business re Operation Grand Alliance.

Weather – CAVU. Numerous flying exercises carried out. Commanding Officer and Captain de Malglaive attended official luncheon with Col. Bock at French Air Force Base et Essey-les-Nancy.

Weather – overcast with low clouds. Poor visibility. Some flying carried out. Commanding Officer, W/C Edwards and S/L Gordon and S/L Fiander visited Col. Ducornet, Commandant of BA 121.

Weather – snow, low ceiling and poor visibility. Nil flying. Commanding Officer’s parade in morning, also a staff conference.

Weather – overcast. Nil flying.

Weather – lousy all day. Nil flying. Draft for Zweibrucken arrived and was billeted and fed.

Weather – CAVU. Nil flying. All officers commence Flying Officers examinations. Operation Dandelion still in effect. A/V/M Campbell, Air Commodore Hodgson, W/C Ashman, from Air Division visited this Unit on an unofficial inspection. They toured the Unit and visited the operations room of the exercise to see progress and results.

Weather – low ceiling, fog, poor visibility. Nil flying. Officers qualifying examinations continue. G/C Pollard, G/C Cox and W/C Edwards proceeded via GMT to Trier, Germany, re Exercise Grand Alliance.

Weather – visibility poor, low cloud, fog. Low flying. Exams continued.

Weather – fog and poor visibility. Several flights made.

Weather – fog, poor visibility. Nil flying. Exams over.

Weather – fog, poor visibility. Nil flying.

Weather – fog, low clouds, poor visibility, frost. Nil flying. Dr. D Barr, Air Division HQ representative of DDP Ottawa, visited Unit enroute to 3 (F) Wing. W/C Mitchener, S/L Gervais and F/L Sinclair, OsC of 413, 427 and 424 (F) Squadrons visited this Unit and discussed events of Leap Frog II re Leap Frog III, which they will undertake in March. Preparation being made for the arrival of A/V/M HB Godwin, CBE, CD, AOC AMC, who is due to arrive on a formal inspection on 27 Jan 53.

Weather – low clouds, poor visibility. Several local flights made. Party was held for A/V/M Godwin. A/V/M Godwin, G/C Baker (Air Division), G/C J McCormick and W/C F Crates of 30 AMB visited unit on inspection. Brigadier General A Jenkins, 12 ATAF, visit unit on official basis.

Weather – poor visibility, drizzle and haze. Several flights made with two minor accidents. Blown tire and collapsed oleo leg. A/V/M Godwin departed, returned from 3 (F) Wing and proceeded via air to Paris. W/C EHM Walsh assumed temporary command of 2 (F) Wing. Additional CAPO personnel arrived this unit for duty.

Weather – poor. Lectures given on how to rescue a pilot from a crashed Sabre.

Weather – clear and bright in the afternoon. Number of sorties made.

Weather – Extremely high winds, rain showers. Stand-down because of weather.

Weather – high winds, snow. Nil flying.

Weather – poor. Nil flying.

Weather – CAVU. Number of sorties carried out. S/L Paylor Tech/CE visited station on routine matters. Mr. Brien and Mr. Hopkins attached to the RCAF arrived for duty with GCA and Met units on the station.

Weather – was fine. Number of sorties flown. F/L Laidler and Dale, Security Officers from Air Division and AFHQ arrived on station for security inspection. F/L Pope from Air Division visited station on administrative matters. S/L Elvis from CJS visited station on inspection. F/L Stanshul, F/L Cuzens and W/C Tett from AFHQ stopped at the station enroute to 3 (F) Wing. Colonel Birkstead of the Swedish Air Force, Monsiuer Landman of 4 ATAF and Captain Klingen Smith, visited the station on an informal inspection tour.

Weather – CAVU. Nil flying. Lectures on security given by F/L Dale of AFHQ.

Weather – snow, rain. Lecture by S/L Elvis AFHQ on safety instruction for all pilots. CO’s parade cancelled due to weather. CO’s staff conference held.

Weather – snow and rain. Work routine carried out.

Weather – snow changing to rain. Work, Sunday routine.

Weather – cloudy in early morning, cleared by 1300 hours. No flying due to slush on the runways. 421 (F) Squadron played 416 (F) Squadron in volleyball. Some of the pilots had French lessons in the evening.

Weather – high winds, low clouds and rain. No flying. Routine duties carried out.

Weather – light rain showers. Some flying carried out, five pilots getting airborne. Mr. Barr of the Department of Defence Production visited the station regarding supply matters in connection with slow satisfaction of demands.

Weather – cloudy, light rains. Six pilots went flying. Station commissary opened for business. Stage show "Rhythm Round-Up" held in Mess. Monsieur led Matringe, Inspector Principal des Duanes, Chief Inspector of Customs Divisional Chief Nancy visited the station on a liaison visit. AOC and party visited station briefly enroute to Paris from Zweibrucken.

Nil flying due to weather. The weekly staff meeting was held in the CO’s office. The regular weekly CO’s parade was held.

Usual weekend routine.

Usual weekend routine.

S/L RH Lowry (Med) and F/O Tremain (Med/Assoc.) from IAM Toronto departed unit after having modified "G" suits to all squadron personnel.

S/L N Haye Tech/AE, Air Division, visited this unit and conferred with Acting C Tech O, S/L Howell, and unit CO re aircraft spares and other technical matters. G/C ME Pollard, CO, 2 (F) Wing, departed by rail to attend conference at Air Division HQ, conference being presided over by AOC, 1 Air Division, at which CO’s 2 and 3 (F) Wings are to be present.

CO accompanied by S/L R Middlemiss, Captain de Malglaive and F/O CM Campbell, proceeded to Longwy to attend a presentation in which CO was presented with a ceramic plaque by Baron d’Huart. The presentation was an ensignia of the RCAF. Following the presentation, a luncheon was tendered by the Baron and Baroness d’Huart which was followed by a tour of the porcelain establishment. Press representatives of the "La Lorraine" were present and photographed the ceremony.

S/L WC Pachalka and F/L B Ray, Air Division HQ reported on TD and gave an intelligence lecture to all the pilots.

G/C F Baker, Supply, Air Division HQ, Paris, W/C D Armour, Supply, AMCHQ, Ottawa, and S/L F Mahoney, CJS London reported here on TD. They reviewed the Supply problems in general and conferred on top level supply problems with S/L F Lemon, Wing Supply Officer.

F/L J Freeman, Air Division HQ, reported in and discussed the formation of the Central Trade Advancement School which is being established at 3 (F) Wing. Later, he and F/O M Zaharia, Education Officer of this unit left by PMC for 3 (F) Wing, Zweibrucken, to make preliminary arrangements. The FAR Flying College visiting party departed by air at noon.

Mr. J Goldsmith, RAF Cinema Corporation, visited the unit and discussed cinema matters with the CO and the CAdO. Mr. R Haire, representative of Trailer’s Ltd., London, visited the unit and toured the unit trailer camp and discussed problems associated with trailers.

The Wing ended the past month with a total flying time of approximately 435 hours. This has been due to the excellent flying weather which has been in effect. The entire tone of the Wing changes so rapidly and noticeably when weather conditions are favourable. If this weather continues the target of 600 hours should be quite easily met in March.

Note – Periodically, various photographs will be taken around the unit, showing the progress on various projects, general conditions and improvements as they are observed.

Excellent weather but considerable ground fog which did not clear until after mid-day, at which time the squadrons commenced flying. The excellent flying weather recently encountered has been phenomenal and has done much to improve all station facilities and morale on the station. The CO inspected all barrack blocks. He also attended and inspected a parade comprising personnel from this Wing who have been selected to attend as Canadian Armed Forces representatives at the Coronation in London in June. F/O G Fulford, 421 (F) Squadron delivered a lecture on ski course he had received from French Air Force in the Alps a month previously. Only two sets of four aircraft went flying due to low visibility.

Weather has become overcast but cleared sufficiently to permit flying. S/L C Paylor from Air Division HQ, SOCE, reported this unit on a tour of CE buildings and discussed various CE matters. The Vice Chief of the Air Staff is due in tomorrow and a general clean up and preparation is being co-ordinated for his arrival and the members of his party.

A/V/M FR Miller, CBE, CD, Vice Chief of the Air Staff, accompanied by A/V/M HR Campbell, CBE, CD, AOC, 1 Air Division HQ, visited this unit on an official visit. A/C A Murray, Director of Accounts and Finance was also in the official party. A/V/M Miller inspected the Guard of Honour, toured the station and was tendered a reception in the Officer’s Mess. He gave an informal address to the officers outlining future plans of the Service and various commitments being undertaken. The official party comprising 16 persons remained overnight and departed on 7 Mar for 4 (F) Wing Soellingen, Germany.

A/V/M FR Miller and other members of the official visiting party departed by air at 0815 hours for 4 (F) Wing at Soellingen, Germany. The CO departed by air via Unit Beechcraft for England with five passengers. Excellent weather prevailed and all squadrons were actively engaged.

Stand down. Signal arrived grounding all Sabres until a special inspection has been carried out on fuel pressure control valves. This week 430 (F) Squadron flew 107 hours, which is the most time by far since its arrival in France. This was due to better weather and an increase in ground handling facilities and equipment.

First overcast weather this unit has experienced in three weeks effected the unit today. It became very overcast after 1200 hours and only routine flying was carried out by the squadrons. F/L JY Marion, Acting OC 410 (F) Squadron at 1 (F) Wing, visited the unit on an informal visit. An emergency stocktaking board was convened to investigate the alleged shortages in the Unit Grocery Store. F/O K Millions departed by rail for 1 Air Division HQ, where he is conferring with SOCE staff officers on CE problems encountered at this Wing. CO and party returned by Beechcraft off leave. Russian Migs crossing the border. Only half the squadron allowed into the air at one time. Squadron on alert.

Captain J Monnier from French Signal Corps in Metz visited the unit, and with FLO inspected the unit Telecom Section. The weather fell rapidly today – snow fell at 100 hours and it became cold. No flying was held. After 1200 hours it cleared and excellent weather prevailed all day until 1700 hours when it clouded over. CO conducted an inspection of barrack clocks today and also BB 27 which is being allocated for the airwomen. BB 27 was found to be unsuitable for female habitation being incomplete, so they will be temporarily housed in BB 20. Boilers have broken down in No. 1 Boiler House and no heat in the buildings west of the second road right. Full flying program. Flights operating on an operational basis. Americans protested shooting down of F-84, demand reparations.

The first airwomen contingent from Canada for NATO arrived at 2 (F) Wing. They comprised a flight of 47 persons. They arrived by boat from Canada on the 10 Mar and after two days in Paris, where they were the subject of considerable press relations, they proceeded to 2 (F) Wing. They are under the command of F/O E Fox. W/C S Morten and S/L Ferguson from Air Division HQ arrived on TD from Air Division HQ and conducted a routine audit of NPF accounts etc. Russian Migs shot down an RAF Lincoln over the Hamburg-Berlin air corridor. Six crewmen killed, another wounded in Russian hospital.

Commanding Officer’s weekly inspection. Major R Carelle of French Army Metz visited re aircraft for Metz fly past. Squadron personnel very much on alert. All personnel very keen.

G/C ME Pollard, accompanied by S/L RM Middlemiss and S/L JOD Levesque and F/O CM Campbell, paid an unofficial visit to 3 (F) Wing at Zweibrucken. They were given a conducted tour around the unit and attended a reception tendered by the CO 3 (F) Wing for French and American military and civilian dignitaries.

Mr. Dan Strand, Paris representative of the New York Herald Tribune visited the unit, conferred with the Station Commander and accompanied by F/O GH Tyson, was conducted on a tour around the unit. The purpose of his visit was to obtain information concerning the purpose, conditions, and other aspects which would be of interest to the general public. S/L RG Middlemiss, OC 421 (F) Squadron in command of 12 aircraft departed this unit for USAF Base Furstenfeldbruck, Germany, where his squadron will participate in co-operation with other NATO Forces in Operation "Jungle King". All plans and preparatory measures have been completed by W/C Flying this unit so that Operation "Jungle King"" for which this Wing is providing air support has been completed. The Operation is scheduled to become effective at 0530Z 19 Mar 53.

W/C EHM Walsh and S/L JOD Levesque, plus two Corporals proceeded from this unit via service aircraft to Celle, Germany, where they proceeded by GMT to Landstuhl 4^th ATAF HQ where they were official guests at a Commonwealth Reception tendered by the British Forces in Occupied Germany. During the official reception, which was in honour of His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh, they were officially presented to him as being representative guests of the RCAF (Regular) in France under NATO.

G/C ME Pollard, accompanied by Captain PMM de Malglaive, attended an official reception in honour of the departure of General Henri Zeller, Military Governor of Metz. G/C Pollard was on the official stand and witnessed the review of the parading French troops as well as Captain de Malglaive.

G/C WG Welstead, AFC, CD, Air Attaché, Prague, Czechoslovakia, visited this unit and conferred with the CO. He was later taken on a tour and inspection of the unit. F/L G McInnes attending a conference at 1 Air Division HQ on Canteen and other allied subjects.

W/C JC Tett, F/L ED Herbertson and F/O CC Frew, Staff Officers from Air Division HQ, reported this Unit and discussed with W/C EHM Walsh various matters pertaining to sports, drill and arts and crafts. S/L A Cobus, AJAG, Air Division HQ also reported this Unit and discussed legal matters concerning Boards of Inquiry, submissions, R160’s and other allied matters connected with his Branch. S/L JA Elvis, who is the AMCJS, London, representative of AIB/AFHQ and W/C RF Milne, who is also one of the Deputy Directors of AIB/AFHQ reported this Unit concerning the investigation into the causes surrounding accident of Sabre 19333.

CO went flying for the second time in a Sabre aircraft and reported that its operation was more pleasant than the first. Officers of 421 (F) Squadron made G/C Pollard an honorary member of the squadron and presented him with a fitting momento.

Sabre aircraft of this Unit participated in an AAFCE fly-past. This fly-past was in commemoration of the two year establishment of this Command.

CO held a meeting at 1630 hours for all officers, warrant officers and senior NCOs, at which he reviewed the progress that the Wing had made during the month of March, especially in the flying bracket. He indicated his pleasure for their efforts and stated that this month the Wing should easily achieve its target flying quota with a good over average. Also he brought several disciplinary matters to the for and outlines a programme of rectification.

Protestant Mission Service was conducted by F/L J Garrett of 3 (F) Wing. Unit is in morning this date for the Late Dowager, Queen Mary. Officers and senior NCOs commence a refresher drill course. F/Os J Aitken and J Turgeon visited this unit on Tele-communications and social welfare problems. They are located at Air Division and TACC HQ in Metz respectively.

An open Protestant Mission Service was held and the service was conducted by F/L Garrett, Protestant Chaplain from 3 (F) Wing. He chose as his theme "Creative Thinking and the Individual Aspects Concerning Self with Respect to Religion and Faith". The Service was highly receptive and an excellent turnout was observed. A/V/M HL Campbell, AOC, 1 Air Division HQ and A/C WR MacBrien landed this Unit in the AOC’s Dakota. They conferred with the CO for a short time after which the AOC departed by air for 4 (F) Wing, Soellingen, Germany. A/C MacBrien was conducted around the Station and later departed by GMT for Trier, Germany, where he is to be stationed and on staff of ATAF HQ when it eventually moves from Landstuhl, Germany. G/C ME Pollard, Station Commander, later departed by air for ten days leave in England at the conclusion of which he will return with his family and establish residence on the Unit Trailer Site.

Official information received from RAF Prestwick Scotland that squadrons comprising Leap Frog III would be leaving that unit and were scheduled to arrive at 3 (F) Wing at 1330 hours. A formal invitation was received from the CO of 3 (F) Wing for a party of 40 officers this unit to attend the official reception being tendered to the personnel of the squadrons. This unit received most disheartening news at 1730 hours when Flying Control was informed Air Division Beechcraft had forced landed with an engine failure in the Sarreguemines area. Immediately aircraft this unit, 3 (F) Wing, and USAF Search and Rescue Unit attached to 4 ATAF all went into action and without much difficulty, the Beechcraft was located. Information received revealed that A/V/M HL Campbell, AOC, A/C KLB Hodson, Chief of Staff, G/C RM Cox, Senior Staff Officer, W/C RA Ashman, Senior Personnel Staff Officer, as well as the two pilots were critically injured. This was confirmed later with the exception of W/C Ashman, who received only superficial injuries. All parties concerned are now on the serious injured list and confined to St. Elizabeth Hospital, Landstuhl. The exact extent of their injuries is not known. Miss E Harley, representing the Toronto Globe and Mail, and Mr. Brent Oliver, of Express News and feature service representing the Vancouver Sun arrived this unit via Bristol from Langar for the purpose of PRO matters.

Trouble being experienced with the heating system. Hoped that this problem will be rectified within a few days for at the present time there is no hot water or heat in any of the unit establishments or living quarters. Reports have officially been received from USAF Hospital in Landstuhl, where members of the crashed Beechcraft in which the AOC, 1 Air Division and his party are now hospitalized. Apparently all are suffering from broken backs and are now on the serious injury list. G/C C Hull, CO, 3 (F) Wing, Acting AOC, 1 Air Division HQ. Commanding Officer attended a reception and dance tendered by the Wing Security Officer and his staff at Crehange Cite.

Salvage crews from this unit proceeding to the Sarreguemines area where the Beechcraft of 1 Air Division is resting. Formal Board of Inquiry has been convened and AIB representative from London, S/L A Elvis is expected to assist the Board. A/C WR MacBrien, has now been temporarily appointed AOC, 1 Air Division HQ in lieu of G/C C Hull. The movement of 1 Air Division HQ from Paris to Metz has commenced and with the exceptions of the Deputy Chief Construction Engineering and Air Movements, the entire Division will move, and become effective for operation on 13 Apr.

Colonel J Duchatil, Commandant of the Sector Fortifications at Bitche, Moselle, paid a courtesy visit to the unit. He was accompanied by 30 NCOs and privates of the French Army who were conducted on a tour around the unit.

Mr. Douglas Lachance, European (Paris) representative of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation paid a visit to the unit. He conferred with the CO.

Comparatively fine cool weather exists. Good degree of serviceability amongst the squadrons and all aircraft available are actively engaged in local routine flying. A combined exercise is scheduled to commence this week in which squadrons from this Wing will co-ordinate and engage with other NATO squadrons in operational fighter tactics. 1 Air Division HQ, presently located in Paris have completed their move to Mercy-les-Metz. I Air Division Comm Flight, previously located at Orly Airport, Paris, arrived this unit for a period of two months pending their re-location at Frescaty Airport, USAF, Metz.

General Lauris Norstadt, Commander in Chief of Allied Air Forces Central Europe, accompanied by Mr. Proutey, Congressman from Vermont, Mr. Smith, Congressman from Wisconsin, Mr. Morano Congressman from Connecticut, Mr. Harrison Congressman from Virginia, and Mrs. Church, Congresswoman from Illinois and Mr. Bullock Knight, representative of the Foreign Affairs Department visited this unit on a tour of inspection. The Congressmen composing the party were all members of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Washington, DC. After a tour of inspection, during which the Acting AOC, A/C WR MacBrien was present. Later the party departed by air for Chaumont. Brigadier General A Wedd, Head of NATO Infra-Structure Committee visited this unit and discussed various Infra-Structure matters relevant to NATO airports. G/C ME Pollard returned by air from England on completion of annual leave together with family and took up residence in the unit trailer camp.

Messrs Douglas Lachance and A Cowan, of the Paris Division of CBC, visited and reported to the CO with regard to short wave broadcasts and radio stations for re-broadcast through the National French Radio Department to Canada.

Minister of National Defence, Honorable Brooke Claxton and Mrs. Claxton, together with official party visited the unit. They were conducted around the unit. The Minister spoke briefly to the troops. Luncheon was tendered then and they later departed for 3 (F) Wing.

CO and Mrs. Pollard, accompanied by a party of 20 officers and wives of the unit paid a visit to Nancy as the guests of his Worship the Mayor. An official reception was held in the City Hall, luncheon tendered by 121 French Air Force Base at Essey-Les-Nancy, followed by a very interesting tour of the city’s focal points of interest, including the museum and local churches. An excellent time was had by all.

CO accompanied by Unit Adjutant, F/O Campbell, visited the handing-over reception at 3 (F) Wing. G/C Pollard attended the luncheon as one of the official guests. Present at the luncheon were Lord Ismay, President of the North Atlantic Council, Honourable Brooke Claxton, Minister of National Defence and other French, American, British and Canadian civil and military officials.

Mr. PW Scarlett, British Consulate General at Strasbourg reported on a visit to the unit with the Commanding Officer.

Excellent flying weather and 416 (F) Squadron took full advantage and commenced flying operations around 0730 hours. It would seem that the damp spring weather has ceased and we are due for excellent warm and clear weather. If such is the case, the squadrons will surely meet their flying hours objective. The panoramic tracery made by the contrails in the sky was most effective. Instructions received from AOC, 1 Air Division that at all costs, only living-out personnel are to leave the camp on 1 May in view of the anti-NATO factions that are prevalent in the immediate area and who might force a demonstration or effect an altercation with RCAF personnel, the station is temporarily sealed until 0800 hours on 2 May 53.

Commanding Officer held his weekly inspection and followed it by Wing Ceremonial drill practice. As 1 May is a French National holiday corresponding to Labour Day in Canada, it was felt that in view of the anti-NATO elements in the area, that the unit be CC’d from 0001 hours 1 May to 0800 hours 2 May. This was confirmed by the AOC, 1 Air Division and recommended heartily by the Commanding General 1ere FAF, Dijon, and would prevent disturbances and possible altercations with RCAF personnel. To provide suitable entertainment for the station personnel under this directive, a successful Station Dance was held in No. 4 Hangar for all personnel. Music was supplied by an orchestra from the 17^th Entertainment Group, US Army, Verdun.

Excellent flying weather prevailed and all squadrons are keenly engaged in chalking up as many hours as possible for the current month. Last month the total flying hours obtained were 422:00 416 (F) Squadron, 418:30 421 (F) Squadron, and 400:05 430 (F) Squadron. A party of approximately 70 senior officers now attending the NATO Defence Staff College in Paris visited this unit on a tour of inspection. The senior officer present was Admiral J Lemmonnier, who was accorded a Guard of Honour by the unit. All NATO countries with the exception of Iceland, Luxembourg and Norway were represented in the official party. A Guard of Honour was also accorded General A Navereau, the Military Governor of Metz who paid an informal visit to greet the senior officers. A complete briefing regarding all aspects of the unit was given by the Station Commander in the Operations Room, followed by a tour of the station, and luncheon in the combined mess. Later the party departed by aircraft for Malta, where they are being entertained as the guests of Admiral Louis Montbatten. During the visit the squadrons displayed some excellent formation flying and the scene of activity all along the squadron line was very fitting and provided an excellent background for comment. All members of the party expressed their sincere thanks for the opportunity. G/C J Miller, Canadian Representative at NATO Staff College was also present and acted as co-ordinator between senior officers of the Staff College and the Station Commander.

Limited local flying due to cooler weather. US Dakota which was for NATO Defence College party took off after repairs had been made.

CO conducted inspection of BB 27 and SSO Branch. Appearance good and a few minor observations noted. W/C JF Edwards visited Air Division HQ and HQ of French Army re preliminary discussion on 9 May 53 (Armistice Day) celebration in Metz. A total of 170 airmen plus 12 officers are to take part in the parade.

Limited flying as weather remains cool. F/O A LeFevre proceeded to Air Division HQ re Ground Defence matters. Coronation Contingent for this Wing selected and now ready to leave on Saturday and Sunday by air. Pre-parade briefing held in No. 4 Hangar by F/L Herbertson of Air Division HQ.

General stand down. Weather not suitable, continued overcast and showers. G/C ME Pollard, Station Commander, inspected personnel of 2 (F) Wing who are proceeding by air to participate in the Coronation. The 2 (F) Wing personnel proceeded by air on Bristol aircraft for 30 AMB Langar for pre-Coronation training and drill.

Excellent weather conditions and all squadrons engaged in routine area flying operations. Working hours amended to a five day week commencing at 0830 hours to 1700 hours. This will assist unit personnel in their off duty movements and excursion trips. Operation Order received for Operation "Horace", a copy of which is included as a historical exhibit.

Excellent weather still prevails. Flying operations are being actively continued by all squadrons. Mr. Walter Turnbull, Deputy Postmaster General, accompanied by G/C F Baker of Air Division HQ, Metz, visited the unit on a brief inspection tour of postal facilities. He was guest at a luncheon given by the CO and later departed by air. The auxiliary power unit for the station was turned off last night and the unit received electric power for the first time from the permanent electrical power unit which has just been installed. With the long weekend coming up, a massed exodus of personnel is expected from the station. Buses have been chartered and approximately 130 persons are departing on a bus tour of Switzerland.

The following personnel of the French Air Force reported this unit to act as umpires during Operation "Horace". Commandant Gilbert Cuny, Commandant Andre Billion, Commandant Pierre Valin, Captain Maurice Vuillemin and S/Lt. Robert Blum. A/C AC Cook, AFHQ reported from Air Division HQ and was conducted around the unit on a tour of inspection. W/C J Morton and W/C D Smith from Air Division HQ paid an unofficial visit to this unit enroute to Weisbaden, Germany, to attend a POL Conference with US Military and Air Force officials. Mr. JE Haire of a London caravan company departed after a three day visit to Air Division and Wings in its command. Mr. Haire is co-ordinating caravan problems for personnel at Air Division and various Wings in existence. Mr. Kidd, Chief Auditor of Department of National Defence and Mr. JE Morgan of the Deputy Minister’s Office, Department of National Defence visited the unit. They later departed with other members of their staff who are concluding their yearly audit at this unit. Excellent hot weather prevails. Temperature hovers around 90 degrees. All squadrons actively engaged in flying.

Operation "Horace" commenced today. Excellent weather prevailed. Hot weather continues, nil humidity and all squadrons actively engaged in flying operations on the combined exercise. W/C W Tett, AFHQ/Spec/Mis on TD to Air Division visited unit and discussed sports and personnel administrative matters with CO and F/O Stangroom. He was accompanied by F/L D Herbertson of Air Division, who discussed sports and unit recreation facilities with F/O Tatarchuk. F/L J Freeman visited and discussed educational matters. All departed by PMC for 3 (F) Wing.

Excellent weather continues. Weather extremely hot and humid. All squadrons actively engaged in participation in Exercise "Horace". General J Paully, General Officer Commanding Operation "Horace" visited the unit and discussed various problems concerning the Operation with the CO,. G/C ME Pollard, and W/C Flying, W/C Edwards. He toured the unit and was shown all aspects of the operation. Aircraft Sabre 19304 of 416 (F) Squadron and piloted by F/O R Morgan, suffered a forced landing. Aircraft was severely damaged and pilot uninjured.

CO held his regular weekly conference. Messrs. P Domenachak, R Blanc and J Petil of the French Civil Aeronautics Board, Paris, visited the unit and discussed operation procedures with the CO and W/C Flying. Excellent weather continues and Operation "Horace" is to conclude at 1700 hours today. Selections being made of officers, airmen and airwomen for award of Coronation Medal this unit. G/C ME Pollard was cleared off the unit prior to his posting to Air Division HQ, Metz, where he is to become Senior Air Staff Officer.

G/C ME Pollard departed from the unit on posting to Air Division HQ, Metz, where he will be employed as SASO. W/C EHM Walsh assumed temporary command of the unit pending the arrival of the new CO, G/C F Weiser, who is SOGT at Training Command HQ, Trenton. Excellent hot weather still continues and all squadrons are actively engaged in routine flying operations. Prior to his departure, G/C Pollard made recommendations to Air Division HQ for four officers, 13 airmen and one airwoman for the Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal. As a point of interest, for the first time, the Officer’s Mess had representatives from each of the four RCAF Wings and Air Division HQ, Metz. F/L WS Harvey, F/L EG Cameron and F/L RH Wilson attended a meeting in W/C Flying’s office to discuss air to ground operation to be held 18 Jun at Seigenberg.

A tropical heat wave has gripped all of France. Temperature at this unit at 1200 hours was 98 degrees F. Excellent flying conditions. CAVU and all squadrons actively engaged in flying operations. Around 1600 hours weather cooled. A heavy windstorm followed by a slight rain and thunder storm. Considerably cooler, temperature fell in ten hours to 54 degrees F. G/C M Lipton and W/C P Blackburn, Chief of Directing Staff and one member, both of RCAF Staff College, Toronto, reported on TD via service air. They were given a tour around the unit, were briefed on the organization and function and later departed by GMT for Air Division HQ. S/L J Elvis, AIB Member from AFHQ attached to AMCJS London reported in on TD from London re damage to Sabre 19304. S/L M Holdham and F/L W Cozens, Air Division HQ reported in on personnel administration matters as well as discussed matters re motor vehicles, conveyances in order to obtain cheaper gasoline for Service personnel. Laundry facilities extended this unit at Nancy have terminated and a unit laundry not yet in operation, personnel are required to attend personally to their needs. Plans being prepared for Coronation Day Ceremony on 2 Jun 53. A Station Parade will be held at 0900 hours, followed by a general stand down. F/L RF Bamford proceeded to Air Division HQ to participate in an Operation "Springtide". F/L EG Cameron and F/L GW Tufts proceeded to Furstenfeldbruck, Germany to survey the accommodation facilities in preparation for air to ground operation commencing 18 Jun 53.

S/L H Thomas and S/L D Lankman, Air Division HQ, SASO Branch, reported this unit on establishment of Flying Control Operations Centre. Weather was cold and windy with considerable overcast. A number of postings were received from Air Division HQ for pilots who are tour expired and are being repatriated to Canada. F/O F Cavanaugh and F/L L Mann of 1(F) Wing and 30 AMB, reported on an unofficial visit. Only routine and limited flying operations conducted by the squadrons. All the squadrons, especially 416 (F) Squadron have obtained their flying hour target and are easing down for the month. A group of college pupils from St. Avold were conducted on a tour of the unit by the FLO and F/O F Potvin of 416 (F) Squadron. F/O G May, 430 (F) Squadron, Adjutant, is acting as Personnel Officer during the absence on leave of F/O E Cox. F/O Sheasby left on transfer to 1 Air Division HQ. A practice air to ground target was set up on the field to give pilots advanced practice before going to Furstenfeldbruck.

Excellent flying weather. However 416 (F) Squadron were on a stand down. The flying quota for the month was well accomplished and F/L Harvey authorized a stand down from 0001 hours 29 May 53 to 2359 hours 31 May 53. Party was held for 416 (F) Squadron personnel Friday evening in 416 (F) Squadron dispersal. A special inspection on Sabre nose wheel lowering gear was ordered. Nine of our Sabres were found to be defective. Repairs to be approximately three days per aircraft. Hours flown during month 415:50.

F/O Robinson and F/O Keffer left for the ski course at Les Allues. Total flying hours for the month 427:00 416 (F) Squadron; 409:20 421 (F) Squadron; 416:50 430 (F) Squadron.