Grostenquin, France

1 Dec 55

Briefing at 0830 hours. Flying scrubbed for the day because of poor weather. Routine normal.

Poor weather today, limited flying by 416 Squadron and 439 Squadron.

3 Dec 55

No Squadron flying. Cold cloudy day. Bristol aircraft from Langar departed for 1 (F) Wing shortly after 1100 hours and was reported missing at 1150 hours. No further word received by 1500 hours.

Flying time:

5 Dec 55

No flying, weather unserviceable. Completely fogged in. Final word on Bristol received during Saturday evening, 3 Dec, with 2 (F) Wing four dead and 1 critical. However, the toll rose to five during the early morning hours of Sunday as the critical died. Dead are F/O BE Patterson, F/O JP Hrenyk, F/O JG Campbell, Cpl. RC Offerdahl, Cpl. Knight from 2 Wing, F/O S Newman from CJS (L) and F/O Pigot of 1 (F) Wing. Funeral arrangement made for Wednesday morning (7 Dec) in Station Drill Hall for five and in RC Chapel for F/O Newman. Armament dispersal tent at 416 Squadron burnt to ground. Caused by faulty Herman Nelson heater.

Routine briefing at 0830 hours. Normal flying throughout the day.

G/C Quinn and party from AMCHQ visited the station on a routine inspection. Word received F/O Patterson’s parent flying from Canada to attend funeral, therefore it has been put back to 8 or 9 Dec depending on their wishes.

Sleet falling, cold and windy. No local flying today. Funeral services held at 0915 and 0930 hours respectively. C of S Air Div attended as representative of AOC.

Routine briefing at 0830 hours. 416 Squadron on Exercise Argus, but cancelled because of marginal weather. Training flying carried out.

Board of Inquiry formed on injury of LAC Hammington which occurred in PMC accident on 8 Dec.

Weather fair, routine flying carried out. F/O Allingham of 416 Squadron ran out of fuel and bailed out near Nancy, but was uninjured. Board of Inquiry assembled with S/L White as president.

CO and F/O Landels proceeded to Air Div where F/O Landels was awarded a severe reprimand. A Squash tournament was held in the evenings of the 13th and 14^th Dec and the elimination’s were finished the first night. The finals were held the second evening and the final games were between Dr. Lawrence and Sgt. Kenny King. After a very close and tense three games, the Doctor finally took the advantage and won the series to become the 2 (F) Wing Squash Champ for the 1955 season.

Mr. Omer Anderson visiting the Wing for two days writing a feature article for a publication in the States. His tour includes briefings in Operations. Poor weather restricted flying today to a one hour period. 421 Squadron on Zulu at 4 (F) Wing.

15 Dec 55

Mr. Lochnan of National Film Board paid the Station a visit today and was well briefed and looked after by F/O Kozoriz, the WEdO. Aircraft #23336 of 416 Squadron ran off end of runway due to slippery surface. No damage found to aircraft. Good flying weather today, but a special inspection curtailed activities.

Another $1,000.00 bingo was held in the Rec. Centre and a record crowd of 875 people were in attendance. The final game for the grand prize went to LAC Newans of 430 Squadron after some very tense moments for many of the crowd who were so close to hitting the proverbial jack pot.

The new Station Library is now located in Bldg 25. In addition to the Education Staff Offices, five TA rooms and two storage rooms are housed in the same building. No flying today because of weather. 421 Squadron got some sorties on Zulu at 4 (F) Wing.

Several Station parties on to-night which the CO, CAdO and CTechO have to make the rounds.

Another poor day. Routine normal. The annual Children’s Christmas Party was held in the Rec. Centre and the largest crowd ever to assemble in this hallowed hall was in attendance with a total of 1,365 children. (approximately 600 of these kids were over 25 years of age.) There was a program prior to Santa’s arrival consisting of trampoline capers by F/O Wilson’s Gym Club clowns, special arrangements by the Station Band for the occasion, a magician from Nancy who made birds materialize from anywhere, and finally Mr. S Claus arrived and the roof just about lifted as the small fry roared their approval and proceeded to swamp the jolly old fellow. There were presents for all the kids under 17, and ice cream and cake and all the other things mothers think are for stomach aches, were gobbled up by the happy children. A big chunk of mistletoe to F/L Jones and all his Santa’s helpers who made this possible.

No flying at this Wing over the weekend. 421 Squadron at 4 (F) Wing flew over two days.

Routine normal. The Eagles and Eaglettes went to 4 (F) Wing for the last basketball session of the fall season. It proved rather disastrous to both teams with the men losing 36-39 and the girls dropping 27-41 defeat.

Cool, frosty morning. Good weather to start out the week. Training flying carried out. 421 Squadron preparing to move to 4 Wing for Zulu.

20 Dec 55

Normal French Winter seems to be here. No flying at this Wing today. 421 Squadron got some sorties on Zulu at 4 (F) Wing.

21 Dec 55

S/L Stanley took over as CTechSO as W/C LeCheminant is on leave. Weather cleared by 1100 hours and flying commenced. Members of 421 Squadron started returning from Zulu at 4 (F) Wing at 1200 hours and will continue to arrive during the afternoon. 430 Squadron off to 4 (F) Wing on Zulu and will be away over Christmas, tough luck. Routine training flying carried out.

22 Dec 55

Routine normal. CO on sked run to Langar. Good flying weather. 421 Squadron doing a special inspection on aircraft. 430 Squadron at 4 (F) Wing.

23 Dec 55

No flying today. Christmas parties in Sections to start the festive season off at 1500 hours. CO returned from Langar.

Routine for 50% of personnel. Christmas Eve not at all like Canada. The weather is very mild and not a bit of snow is in sight. Request received for the movement of Angelvilliers remote site in order to remove interference on the US Army microwave system.

Christmas day overcast with rain threatening. The Officers gathered at the Sgts. Mess at 1100 hours for refreshments, then led by CO and PMC Sgts. Mess, complete with garbage can drums, proceeded at 1200 hours to the Airmen’s Mess to serve turkey dinner. The dinner was excellent. Christmas menus graced the table, free cigarettes were put out for all, and all the airmen and airwomen were a credit to the service in their behaviour. A chorus of Officers and NCOs sang carols at the conclusion of the meal to the delight of everyone. This Christmas was enjoyed by everyone even though there was no snow.

A very quiet Boxing Day celebration with most personnel resting from previous days engagements.

Routine normal. CO went it Air Div and returned later in the day. 430 Squadron still on Zulu. Some local flying done by 416 Squadron. S/L Sansoucy and F/L Carter together with 8 technicians proceeded to a military fort called Lorraine 15 miles north-west of Metz.

28 Dec 55

430 Squadron returned from 4 (F) Wing. No flying other Squadrons.

29 Dec 55

CO pressed on to 3 (F) Wing to tour station and host with CO and also to attend a mess dinner being held in evening. Promotion list came in but was not released because of CO’s absence. F/O Cherewick have a fortunate escape when he touched his Sabre down several hundred yards short of the runway, the aircraft was extensively damaged but fortunately the pilot was unhurt Limited flying today.

30 Dec 55

Promotion list released but for this Wing, it was extremely poor. We realized three F/L’s: F/O Burns, McElroy and Stangroom. This was certainly disappointing for a great number of eligible officers on the Unit. Weather fair, but only limited flying by 416 and 421 Squadrons. 430 Squadron on New Year’s Leave.

31 Dec 55

Lorraine in operation and the circuit at Angevilliers was discontinued. No flying. The last day of 1955 and everything exceptionally quiet.

Sunday routine. The whole station enjoyed an exceptionally fine New Year with no casualties.

First 50% of 421 (F) Squadron to Rabat via North Star. Routine briefing in the morning. Some local flying carried out.

3 Jan 56

Routine briefing this AM. 416 Squadron off to 4 Wing on Zulu. 421 Squadron preparing for Operation Weapons Fire at Rabat. Weather clear for the first time in many weeks.

4 Jan 56

Mr. Aubert had a conference with CO about PMQ deficiencies. Hospital reports 3 births during the past week. Normal briefing held this AM. 421 Squadron off to Rabat for a month of gunnery. With 416 Squadron at 4 Wing, things are quiet.

5 Jan 56

F/L RC Longmuir and F/O DC Hogan departed for Canada after three years’ tour. Weather good all day. 430 Squadron on Exercise Argus, but cancelled later on by 61 AC&W. Training flying carried out.

6 Jan 56

Another North Star load of supplies and the remainder of 421 Squadron ground-crew departed for Rabat during the morning. W/C Gamble SOAF Air Div, F/L Roberts of Accounts Air Div completed a routine inspection of accounts today. F/L Nollis of Air Div visited the Station to see F/L Wright re: purchases through central warehouse. F/O Adams left on transfer to Air Div. Weather clamped today and no local flying carried out.

7 Jan 56

3 (F) Wing opened their artificial ice arena today. W/C and Mrs. Barnett attended the opening ceremonies as representative of the CO. A hockey game between the RCAF Flyers and Basel was the Sports event which took place. The RCAF won with a score of 6 to 4, but it was touch and go all the way down the line. Two 109 Comm Flight aircraft were unable to leave England due to fog and generally poor weather in the British Isles. Aircraft #23306 had nose oleo strut fail during taxiing, no damage to aircraft other than failed part. Flying time:

8 Jan 56

Dr. Dray, professor of history at the University of Toronto arrived at 2 (F) Wing. Dr. Dray will deliver lectures on history and geography on 9 and 10 Jan to candidates preparing for the 1956 qualifying examinations. The first basketball game of the New Year was held here with the 3 (F) Wing Men. Although 3 (F) Wing, led by the fine shooting eye of Lemay and Dunning, held a small lead at the half, the tide finally swung the other way when Sinker, Creighton and Gregg started hitting the hoop from all over the floor, being fed consistently by Mills, Boudreau, Schedler and Chambers, to finally make it certain decision in favour of the Eagles with the final score 70 to 59 for the home team. No flying today.

9 Jan 56

S/L Grayson, Air Div Supply, arrived today to visit with F/L Sayers on current supply problems. F/Ls Deeprose, T Creteau, J Jessop and A Martin from 4 OTU Trenton arrived to examine members of 109 Comm Flight on ATC standards and they are expected to be here approximately 10 days. The CAdO, CO and CTechSO sat during the day on the CFR Board on Sr. NCOs. W/C Lecheminant returned from leave. Routine briefing at 0830 hours. Lecture by Dr. Young for F/Os writing qualifying exams. F/O Couper off to Rabat in T33. Flying time:

10 Jan 56

The afternoon was taken up by interviewing prospective candidates for commissioning from the ranks. W/C Gamble SOAF made his final report to the CO prior to returning to Air Div on completion of his inspection of the Accounts Section. F/O Morris, Welfare Officer, stationed at 1 (F) Wing made her visit to the Station to handle welfare cases. The CTechSO departed for Air Div to sit as a member of the CFR Board and will be gone approximately 10 days. Dr. Dray departed for Air Div after giving a very excellent series of lectures to the F/Os and F/Ls writing their qualifying exams. Briefing at 0830 hours. F/O McElroy took the RC Padre to Rabat in T33. Flying time:

11 Jan 56

The hospital reports two births during the past week. 416 Squadron returned from Zulu at 4 (F) Wing at 1230 hours. 430 Squadron put on standby for Operation Volley Ball.

12 Jan 56

The CO and F/O Theriault left by T33 for Rabat. This is the CO’s first trip and will serve as an introduction to conditions. W/C Currie is Acting CO during the G/C’s absence. Routine briefing with 430 Squadron on standby with eight aircraft. Practice flying for the day.

13 Jan 56

Black Friday, however everything came through OK. Normal briefing in the morning and training flying carried out during the day.

14 Jan 56

430 Squadron standing by over the week-end for Zulu exercises. Some training flying carried out.

15 Jan 56

The 2 (F) Wing Badminton Club played hosts to 4 (F) Wing in a weekend Invitation Tournament that will go down in history as one of the finest of the season. The Saturday afternoon saw the Men’s double and Women’s doubles go to the opposition, and after supper the Mixed doubles also went to 4 (F) Wing. So the results at the end of the day were as follows: Men’s doubles were won by Smith & Charron, women’s doubles by Reid and Krinowski and the mixed doubles by Julien and Krinowski, all of 4 (F) Wing and all turning in tremendous displays of the game at its best. At nine-thirty a party was laid on in the Little Theatre with dancing, food and liquid refreshment and this was done to knock down all resistance for the Sunday matches. It seemed to have a lasting effect. In the women’s singles, LAW Bouchard went all the way taking LAW Chartrand from 4 (F) Wing in a very decisive victory. The men’s singles was the fame of the day, featuring Moe Julien from 4 (F) Wing against Ben Fife from the home club. These two tremendous sportsmen, both of whom are real nice guys and good friends, had it out in the finals and Ben finally took the series. The final result: 4 (F) Wing took all the doubles, 2 (F) Wing took all the singles and every one had a good time. Loads of credit go to Johnny Preitchuk and June Strachan for all their work which made this event a total success. Flying times:

16 Jan 56

ATC Standards team completed their check of Comm flight today, but their results are not yet known. Aircraft #23057 had a nose wheel strut failure caused by non-removal of nose wheel down lock before take off. Aircraft crashed on runway, "B" Cat crash. The pilot, F/O Tinson, was not injured. A fire in the aircraft resulted. Routine flying today with 416 Squadron on Zulu back up.

17 Jan 56

FS FA Kiersgaard assumed position of Tech/Adjutant vice WO1 KN Stewart. WO1 KN Stewart posted to 109 Comm Flight. New fire siren system checked out and put into service on station. Routine flying and Met Briefing. Flying washed in at 1230 local. 430 Squadron off to 4 (F) Wing to take over Zulu Operation.

18 Jan 56

Comm Flight had another Dakota delivered this week, the crew was from 412 (T) Squadron, Uplands. Weather unfit for local flying all day. 430 Squadron now on Zulu.

19 Jan 56

The Hospital reports five births during the past week. CO went to 3 (F) Wing and 61 AC&W Squadron today the visit and familiarize himself with other phases of Air Div. Routine briefing in the morning with local flying carried out all day.

20 Jan 56

The last day of Qualifying Exams for F/Os and a very happy lot of people they are that this is the end. The monthly dance for Corporals and below was held in the Rec. Centre with music by Tom Dallimore and his music men. A good crowd of 300 was in evidence. F/O Day and FS Elliott and their able crew of Entertainment members did a fine job of decorating and making the Rec. Centre over into the "Palace Pier" for the evening. Good weather held throughout the day. Local flying by 416 Squadron and some of 430 Squadron.

21 Jan 56

Mr. MacNeil and Mr. Gray of Treasury Board visited the Wing for a general look at the unit. Poor weather throughout the weekend and no flying from this base.

22 Jan 56

Here was the Sunday of Sundays for basketball in 2 Wing. First there was a crowd of at least 200 in the bleachers to set the scene for the occasion. The Air Div "DAX" girls team, led by Olsen and Bennet, took the lead at the end of the first half with the score reading 14-13. Then the game became a basket-for-basket affair with each team sinking them from all over the court. The Eaglettes finally took the slim margin, led by McNail and Ells, and at the final horn, 2 (F) Wing girls took the contest 29-28. This score should have been some kind of indicator as to what followed in the men’s game. The Panthermen from Air Div, with Teek and Jarrett, started rocking up the points with the screaming Eagles hot on their trail at the half, led by Creighton, Sinker and Gregg, with a score of 36-30 on the board. In the second half Westrack of the Div got hot on the bucket but left because of fouls, with same thing happening to Gregg and Schedler for the Eagles. Then the score started to see-saw with Teek controlling the backboards for the Panthers and Sinker, Burtt and Wilson doing their level best to keep it equal. The horn sounded on the score of 66 for the Panthers and 65 for the Eagles in a classic that will be one for the books for a long time.

23 Jan 56

Following in the wake of basketball fever around here, the Intersection Basketball finals went into its second, and what turned out to be the last and final game. The Wing HQ team won the first game in a best of two out of three series on the previous Thursday evening. The 416 Officers team were out for revenge after their first loss of 53-43 at the hands of the HQ team. At the end of the first half, the score was 24-20 for HQ and it looked like it was going to be a close one. Morrice of 416 started to get hot in the second half but HQ put a blanket on him and then proceeded to mop up with Stangroom, King, Creighton and Labelle taking over to finish it off with a 59 to 36 victory to make HQ the Intersection Basketball Champions of the 1955-56 season. Routine briefing this AM. Some local flying but activities are limited with two Squadrons away and promotion exams coming up.

24 Jan 56

Air Commodore and Mrs Ross, Brig. and Mrs. Agnew, CofS and Mrs. Clements all visited the station for lunch before proceeding on to Rome. The CO met the aircraft and escorted all the VIPs and their wives to the Mess for luncheon. G/C HJ Bright (SOMS) visited the hospital. The Intersection Volleyball league started this evening and with fourteen teams in the loop, it should prove to be hot and heavy by the end of the season. Routine briefing this AM. 416 Squadron on exercise Tuesday Scrimmage and landing at Criel returned to 1600 hours.

25 Jan 56

The Show "Red, Hot and New" from Wiesbaden played to capacity crowds in the Station Theatre. The cast was entertained in the Cpls.’ Club after the Wednesday evening performance with a dance and buffet and similar evening was held in the Sgts.’ Mess the following evening. The hospital reports 4 births during the past week. Weather not fit for flying in the morning. Local flying in the afternoon. 430 Squadron returned from Zulu operation at 4 (F) Wing.

26 Jan 56

W/C AN Lecheminant returned from TD at Air Div. The Station was visited by G/C Bray STSO, G/C Randall SPSO, and S/L Simpson JAG during the morning on a liaison visit. Weather unfit for local flying all day. Nil sorties.

Weather good and local flying carried out. F/O Marion of 416 Squadron had undercarriage trouble today and bailed out, landed without injury.

28 Jan 56

Normal flying on Saturday with 416 Squadron on Zulu back up.

At basketball, the Junior Eagles (School boys) smothered the Quintettes from 3 (F) Wing with a score of 43-11. The boys of both teams displayed good sportsmanship and played heads up basketball. The crowd was very enthusiastic and cheerleaders were on hand to spur the 2 (F) Wing to victory.

29 Jan 56

Sunday routine. No flying today. The Rec. Centre once again was the scene of exciting basketball games. 2 (F) Wing men and women teams played host to 4 (F) Wing teams. The outcome after the roof settled back on the gym was 28-27 in favour of the Eaglettes and 64-41 in favour of the Eagles. The high scorer and outstanding ballplayer for the Eaglettes was Joan Farnham who sparked the team for 12 points. LAW Garrison of 4 (F) Wing kept the Raiderettes together to almost win the game, however the spirit and teamwork on the Eaglettes part left no doubt. The Eagles kept an edge of 4 points on the Raiders all through the game. Ian Morrice just out of the sick bed and back with the team the first time this year, was the high scorer for the 2 (F) Wing team with 20 points. Wally Boudreau played a very steady game, keeping the Eagles on their toes.

30 Jan 56

F/Ls began writing their qualifying exams today. Mr. E Armstrong, Deputy Minister of Finance, accompanied by W/C Gamble and W/C H Smith of Air Div visited the station on a liaison visit for financial discussions on PMQ’s, DND Schools and allowances. F/O Allan presented the airwomen fastball team with their crests. Routine briefing at 0830 with local flying from 0900 hours on. 416 Squadron stood down and 421 Squadron at Rabat.

31 Jan 56

The hospital reports five births during the past week. Restricted flying in at 0900 hours due to weather. Limited to three sections of four aircraft.

1 Feb 56

The Station was struck with a severe cold spell and the temperatures went down below zero. Trouble with car starting was quite evident as people came into work late. Restricted flying. 416 Squadron to 4 (F) Wing on Zulu. 421 Squadron returned from "Weapon Fire" at Rabat.

2 Feb 56

Cold spell continuing, more and more greatcoats appearing. Many frozen radiators. PMQ residents now living entirely in kitchens with gas on trying to keep warm. Many of the apartments are without water. 430 Squadron has four aircraft on Exercise Argus. One aircraft of 416 Squadron damaged on take-off at 4 (F) Wing, landed safely at base.

3 Feb 56

Weather has let up considerably. F/Ls qualifying exams competed this morning. Officers’ Mess having a mess dinner this evening. Local flying throughout the day.

4 Feb 56

Weather fair local flying in the morning.

5 Feb 56

Normal Sunday routine. No flying.

The newest is that RCAF personnel will no long be allowed through the German border without passports whether on duty or not. This was encountered by the Adjutant Saturday and by the CO and CAdO today. CO has arm in a cast due to a slight accident. W/C LeCheminant on TD regarding Special Weapons Indoctrination Course 16 at Fontainebleau. S/L Stanley assumed position of Acting CTechSO. Limited local flying. Weather still cold.

7 Feb 56

W/C Smith of Personnel Air Div spent the afternoon on the station with CO and CAdO. F/L Kilgor of 109 Comm Flight was cleared on posting to Air Div. Weather good. Full flying effort today. No exercises on.

The Verdun Cardinals visited this unit for an exhibition basketball game with the Eagles. Although the Eagles were greatly outplayed, the main reason can be contributed to difference in numbers on the two teams. The Cardinals roared onto the floor with 12 players, 10 of whom were university stars in their own right in the USA, compared with 7 Eaglemen who became completely bushed towards the end of the third quarter and were lacking in height. The final score was a104 to 55 for Verdun, but the Eagles were led in scoring by Sinker with 20 points, Morrice sinking 14 and Burtt hitting for 12. It turned out to be terrific practice for both teams and this was the main object intended.

8 Feb 56

F/L Cameron of Air Div/Org visited the station and spent considerable time with F/L Jones on the subject of switchboard staff. This problem was tentatively ironed out to the satisfaction of all concerned. The hospital reports six births during the past week. Weather good, all Squadrons flying. 416 returned from 4 (F) Wing Operation Zulu. Flying time:

9 Feb 56

Weather again getting cold with a forecast of 5 below zero for to-night. Wind has been strong for two days and seems to be no let up. One C-45 on Exercise "Sentry Post". Local flying by Squadrons.

The return game with Verdun on their home court proved to be a more even contest with the score at the end of the tilt at 87 to 74 for Verdun. The 2 Wing scoring was led by Jerry Burtt who went hoop-crazy in the second half for 22 points, closely followed by the borrowed Teek from Air Div who popped in 15, and Sinker with 11. With Teeks height on the boards, the scales were closer to the balance and the Eaglemen kept the Redbirds away from bucket and forced them to hit for long shots.

10 Feb 56

Cold winds and below zero temperatures prevail and from met office word comes it will not change for some days. CO and F/O Tinson went to Air Div to see AOC re Tinson’s crash. W/C LeCheminant returned from TD at Fontainebleau. Difficulty experienced in heating hangars. S/L Stanley resumed position as WMaintO. Little flying today by 430 Squadron.

11 Feb 56

No flying. The Rec. Centre was turned into a miniature Madison Square gardens for the evening with the Wrestling Club of Nancy providing the grunts, groans, slams, shrieks, and other numerous exertions peculiar to the professional wrestling clan. A crowd of over 500 were in attendance in spite of the bitter cold and treacherous road conditions. One of the highlights of the evening was the women’s wrestling which really gave the boys a chance to whoop it up, with Maria Apolski, the champion of Poland finally losing out to the favourite Andre Berger of Switzerland after 28 minutes of classic hair pulling and referee-slapping and general mayhem in the ring.

12 Feb 56

No flying today. Sunday routine. Hockey between 421 Squadron and 416 Squadron on the pond.

13 Feb 56

Weather warmer with light snow. After a period of uncertainty Air Div finally advised us approximately 1100 hours of a change in plans for Mr. Franklin’s itinerary. It seems they were waiting at the Orphanage for our representative, but forgot to notify station of the decision. Confusion finally straightened out and all parties happy. 109 Comm flight departed for 4 (F) Wing and Rabat with equipment for 430 (F) Squadron which will be departing for Rabat on 28 Feb. Flying not washed in until afternoon and limited amount of local flying carried out.

14 Feb 56

421 Squadron off to 4 (F) Wing for Zulu today. Local training flying by other squadrons.

15 Feb 56

The hospital reports three births during the past week. No local flying today, weather unserviceable.

Local flying washed in at noon. No exercises planned for today.

17 Feb 56

The annual Cpls. and below dance was held in the Recreation Centre to honour Mr. Cupid in his normal yearly caper of hearts and arrows. The moon-struck couples danced to the music of Tommy Dallimore and his orchestra and an excellent crowd of over 125 couples were in attendance with a good size stag line. Local flying held up until noon because of weather. Local flying in the afternoon, no exercises planned for today.

18 Feb 56

Normal Saturday routine. Basketball game between 2 (F) Wing Eaglettes and an American team in Pirmasens cancelled because of poor road conditions. Limited local flying by 421 Squadron.

19 Feb 56

Flying time:

The Wing played host to 1 (F) Wing Marville in another basketball afternoon. The screaming Eaglettes got off to a slow start against the Marville girls, but did not take long to establish their superiority after the second half was under way. The 1 (F) Wing girls did their best with McGeragle pushing 9 points through the hoop, but the Eaglettes were driving all the time with Farnham’s 9 points, followed by Adamson and Ells, both with 7, to wrap it up neatly for a 28 to 15 win for our femmes. The Eagles did not fare so well at the hands of the Marvillemen. With Caffill, Weeks and Wiper potting 15, 14, 13 points in that order, it was difficult for the Birdmen to hold their own when no one was hitting except for Morrice with 15 points. The Eagles were certainly not up to their normal calibre of ball and the defense under the basket was very weak. The 1 Wingers took the game 61 to 44 and this makes the third game the Eagles have dropped this season.

CO departed this morning for Fontainebleau for a week’s course. W/C Currie assumed position as Acting CO during his absence. WO2 L Lonsberry assumed position of Tech Adjutant vice FS Kiersgaard temporarily employed as AID inspector. No local flying today. On air test by 421 Squadron.

21 Feb 56

The pilot of Sabre 083 experienced difficulties with aileron control during flight but landed the aircraft successfully. Dakota 911 made a successful single engine landing, the starboard engine unserviceable. Routine normal. Flying washed out for weather at 1000 hours.

22 Feb 56

Flying washed in afternoon. 421 Squadron returned from 4 Wing today. The hospital reports five births.

23 Feb 56

Adjutant on sked run to Langar. Limited local flying in the afternoon. Weather still marginal and cold.

24 Feb 56

Local flying all day today. No exercises planned.

25 Feb 56

Cold in HQ. The boiler ran out of fuel and everybody froze till 1100 hours when the fuel truck arrived from Metz. Weather fair this morning and local flying all day. A good effort for a Saturday.

26 Feb 56

Sunday routine. No flying. This was a weekend of tremendous badminton with the 2 (F) Wing team playing host to 3 (F) Wing for their annual invitation tournament. It was truly a weekend for the birds, badminton that is, with tournament starting off on Saturday evening with all the doubles under way. At the end of the evening the results went like this. After many heartbreakers and fine net plays and rallies, the Ladies Doubles was taken by Cpl Given and LAW Bouchard of 2 (F) Wing, the Mixed doubles by LAW Bouchard and LAC Burtt of 2 (F) Wing, and in the men’s Doubles four 3 Wing teams ended up in the semi-finals to make it an automatic 3 (F) Wing win. On Sunday afternoon, the singles went into the books as a pair of classics in badminton on this unit. LAW Bouchard of 2 (F) Wing who paired up the previous evening to be a winner twice, showed her capabilities as an all-round player by boring her way to the Ladies Singes title with no trouble at all. Meanwhile 21 men from both units steadily countered each other in the elimination’s until it left only two men in a final that is and will be one of the greatest in our Rec. Centre. Sgt Ben Fife of 2 (F) Wing was up against S/L Young of 3 (F) Wing. Before a crowd of 175 fans, who didn’t want to see either one lose, in this best two-out-of-three series. Fife took the first one, Young the second game and after a short breather, the final game was on. With terrific net-plays, fore-court slams, and nerve-tingling volleys, the decision and the Men’s Singles title went to S/L Young who won the last game 15-11. Truly a wonderful tournament and one for the books.

27 Feb 56

CO returned from TD at Fontainebleau today and the CAdO and W/Adjutant started a week’s annual leave. First nice warm day in the month and it looks as if the spring is here for this year. Local flying by 416 and 421 Squadrons. 430 Squadron preparing for Rabat.

28 Feb 56

Local flying by 421 Squadron. 416 Squadron to 4 (F) Wing on Zulu.

29 Feb 56

The hospital reports two births during the past week. No local flying. 430 Squadron unable to get off for Rabat because of weather.

1 Mar 56

CO departed for CO’s conference in Metz. Flying after met briefing this morning. 430 Squadron still trying to get away to Rabat. Eight aircraft made it to Istres today. F/O Eisler had a flame out in a T-33 but landed OK.

2 Mar 56

Only flying today was the last section of 430 Squadron away to Rabat. Had to climb through 30,000 ft of cloud to make it.

3 Mar 56

CO returned from Metz. A USAF helicopter dropped in for a short visit. No flying.

Sunday routine. No flying.

421 Squadron is the only Squadron at full strength on base. Considerable local flying but no exercise today.

6 Mar 56

Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage carried out by 421 Squadron, landing at Cambrai for lunch and return. Local flying by balance of aircraft.

7 Mar 56

The hospital reports three births during the past week. 416 Squadron returned from Zulu operations at 4 (F) Wing. Local flying in the afternoon only.

8 Mar 56

The Station was visited by Major General DC Spry, CBE, DSO, CD and Mrs. Spry who were here to attend the Scout & Cub father and son banquet. A normal bingo was held in the Astra Theatre. Clear weather for the full day. No exercises on today. 2 USAF aircraft from Chaumont visited us for lunch.

9 Mar 56

The Station Badminton Club played host to the Langar Club in an invitation tournament. 2 (F) Wing took the tournament. Local flying after Met briefing. No operations planned for today. Mess Dinner in the Officers Mess tonight.

10 Mar 56

Some local flying today. The 2 (F) Wing Soccer "Eagles" played here against 1 (F) Wing and showed terrific improvement in their calibre of play against the toughest team in the league. Although they lost this game 3-2, the team-work displayed by the whole team was magnificent with no one person being singles out as a star.

11 Mar 56

No flying. F/L Carlye left for Canada today, grounded medically. This was a sad basketball weekend for the Eaglettes and Eagles who both dropped decisions to the 4 (F) Wing teams. The Raiderettes were sparked by Garrison who dropped in 18 points while the Eaglettes couldn’t get started with Given contributing 6 points. The girls game was a real close one all the way. Duggan went hoop crazy by dropping in 23 points followed by Gladu with 18 both for the Raiders. Meanwhile, Sinker, Morrice and Mills paced the Eaglemen with 23, 12 and 12 points respectively. The score at the final horn was 64-63 in a real crowd pleaser.

12 Mar 56

The 4 (F) Wing Follies, an amateur talent show from that unit, played for two nights running in the Astra Theatre to capacity houses. It was light, fast, humorous and the audience came away feeling they had seen a show worthwhile the evening spent at a show of this kind. Flying not washed in until afternoon. F/O Chaisson left for FIS Trenton.

13 Mar 56

Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage on today with French AF from Cambrai landing here, but was cancelled because of weather. Local flying only.

14 Mar 56

Archbishop Roy, Archbishop Berry and Father Brochu arrived 2 (F) Wing at 1700 hours. Remained overnight, gave mass for the personnel and attended a small dinner in the Officers’ Mess. Lectures cancelled for today as there were too few pilots on hand to attend. F/O Bob Webber posted in to 416 Squadron. 421 Squadron to 4 (F) Wing on Zulu.

15 Mar 56

After a tour of the unit, the Bishops left by air at 1030 hours for 4 (F) Wing. Local flying all day. 416 Squadron dispersal bombed with leaflets by USAF Sabre from Chambley. Remainder of the party coming up on Friday.

16 Mar 56

G/C Ingles and party arrived station at 0900 hours. They spent several hours in CO’s office discussing A for P’s for the Station. A luncheon was held in the mess and tour of the station took place during the afternoon. The party departed by air at 1630 hours. The annual St. Patrick’s Dance for Cpls. and below was held in the Rec. Centre. A crowd of about 350 were in attendance to dance to the music of Tommy Dallimore and his six Shamrocks (for the evening). Full flying after Met briefing. F/O Graham stalled short of the runway at 4 (F) Wing and damaged his own aircraft as well as two others parked on the ORP. Fortunately, no casualties. Four USAF Sabres arrived from Chambley for the party tonight.

17 Mar 56

The Station Soccer Team gravelled to 4 (F) Wing to take on the Raiders and after scoring one goal in their own nets, through an accidental deflection shot went on to score another in the 4 (F) Wing goal and came home with a tie score of 1-1. F/Os Reid and Hill are to be given a lot of credit in sparking this team to high calibre of soccer they are producing now. Local flying in the morning. USAF aircraft returned to Chambley.

18 Mar 56

Flying time:

Another Basketball Sunday went down in the annals of 2 (F) Wing history with the Eagles and Eaglettes playing host to Air Div. The Eaglettes virtually clobbered the Div Dax with McNail and Champagne sparking our girls in the first half with 6 points each and "Shorty" Adamson putting away another six in the second half to put the game on ice for the Eaglettes. The Air Div girls didn’t even get started and the Eaglettes won by a score of 33-6. In the men’s tilt the story was a bit different. The Div Panthers were paced by Westrack and Jarret, each with 19, followed by Teek with 12. Although Morrice and Sinker each hit for 19 points, the rest of the Eagles just couldn’t contribute enough, the game ending 62-54 for Air Div men.

19 Mar 56

Local flying all day. F/O Caskie of 416 Squadron had a flame out but landed safely at base.

20 Mar 56

Local flying all day. No exercises planned.

21 Mar 56

Local flying today. 421 Squadron returned from Operation Zulu at 4 (F) Wing. 416 Squadron flew four sorties on Exercise Tangle Time today.

22 Mar 56

Local flying by both Squadrons on base. Five officers to Weisbaden for decompression course.

23 Mar 56

Weather only fair but a good days flying carried out. Farewell party in the Mess tonight for S/L Lett and F/L Patterson of 416 Squadron and F/O Wagner of 421 Squadron.

24 Mar 56

Flying time:

The Soccer and Basketball Eagles travelled to 3 (F) Wing and came home the victors in both fields, with the Basketball winning the first game of the semi-finals to boot. The Soccer team showed the world that they are real "Mudders", slipping and sliding their way to a 5-4 win in a thriller that left very little to be desired in the way of terrific team co-operation in spite of the rough playing conditions. On the Basketball court, the results were a little closer, but the Eagles took the day with Sinker really putting the game on the road with a big 25 points, followed by Morrice with 17. Although Lemay of 3 (F) Wing hit for 23, they couldn’t cut the command of the Eagles who took the game 66-61.

25 Mar 56

Flying time:

Sunday routine. The Eagles played host to 3 (F) Wing at home for the second and final game of the semi-finals at basketball and there was never any doubt in this game as to who were the better team. With machine-like precision, the Eaglemen wore down the Maple Leafs with Sinker, Schedlar, Morrice and King pushing the way to the front and taking a lead they never gave up. The 3 Wingers seemed to wilt under the pressure and so the Eagles ended up with a berth in the Air Div finals by winning this game 56-33. As a special feature, the Eaglettes took up the challenge of the High School Junior Basketball Black Devils and the girls took the much needed practice session in graceful defeat by a score of 41-29 in a humorous crowd pleaser.

26 Mar 56

421 Squadron carried out 4 sorties on Exercise Tangle Time. Some flying by 416 Squadron.

27 Mar 56

Mr. Filgate, National Film Board, accompanied by F/L Boland Air Div did a survey of 2 (F) Wing for script material for RCAF sponsored film on conditions to be expected by new arrivals overseas and their dependents. Filming to start in September. Fogged in until lunch time. Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage cancelled for today. 416 Squadron left for 4 (F) Wing for Operation Zulu.

28 Mar 56

Mr. Filgate departed for 1 (F) Wing at 0900 hours. 421 Squadron flew four sorties on Exercise Trolley Trot today. 430 Squadron returned from exercise Weapon Fire at Rabat. Airmen’s promotion list out today.

29 Mar 56

No exercises today. Local flying by 421 Squadron and 416 Squadron. 430 Squadron stood down after returning from Rabat.

A group of a dozen people left the Wing this evening for the Vienna tour which was a special tour for the Easter weekend. It was packed full of interesting sight-seeing tours, night clubbing, opera and all the rest of the wonderful things that go to make up a successful tour.

30 Mar 56

Good Friday and all Squadrons stood down. A few essential trips carried out.

31 Mar 56

Weather fogged in so little flying carried out at station.

1 Apr 56

Easter Sunday. No flying today.

2 Apr 56

Easter Monday. Station holiday

Flying Time:

3 Apr 56

The CF-100 team composed of Mr. Sims and representatives from Canada accompanied by W/C Bowler visited the unit for two days. 416 Squadron at 4 (F) Wing on Zulu. 430 Squadron still on stand-down from Rabat. 421 Squadron on local flying.

The Station Hobby Shop officially opened for its first evening of operation. The new quarters, in the same building as the Cpls. Club, Airmen’s Billiard Room and Radio Station CFGT, are a great improvement over the old set-up with a complete woodworking shop with separate tool crib, a separate stock room for modelers supplies etc and separate rooms set aside for leather craft, art work and model building. A great deal of credit should go to F/O Catton, F/L Clarke and the rest of the Hobby Shop Committee for putting this recreation facility into operation.

4 Apr 56

S/L Kelly and party from CFS Trenton arrived for a visit with COpsO and Squadron commanders to discuss CFS problems. The hospital reports three births during the past week. CO’s parade for this morning cancelled. Five Tech Reps from Canada briefed the pilots on the new Mark VI Sabre. 416 Squadron returned from Operation Zulu at 4 (F) Wing.

5 Apr 56

Limited flying in the morning. Heavy snow showers in the afternoon washed out flying. F/O West reported in from OUT to 430 Squadron.

6 Apr 56

Mr. Shaw of the Victoria Colonist accompanied by F/O Turner of Air Div visited the unit for interviews and pictures of personnel of Vancouver Island. Morning flying. Snow showers in the afternoon washed out flying again.

7 Apr 56

Our Soccer Eagles played host to 3 (F) Wing and showed their true fighting ability by coming out on top of a real close one, winning by the score of 5-4. With F/Os Reid and Hill piloting this team, it has shown the most improvement of any team on the unit. They’ve come from behind to be real contender for the Air Div championships. The first game of the Air Div Basketball Finals for the Men’s Team was played off in the Recreation Centre. All games of this series are to be played here as the Air Div Panthers have been using our court as their home floor and are playing off against our own Eagles. The Birdmen took this first tilt by the score of 64-58. The hotshots for Air Div were Westrack and Jarrett each with 23 points. However, the Eagles put them through the bucket with teamwork really paying off, as Sinker hit for 15, Schedlar for 14, Morrice for 12 and Creighton and King each netting 7.

Flying time:

8 Apr 56

Flying time:

The second game of the basketball finals was a turnabout with the Panthers winning by a score of 69-62 in another close one. The Eaglemen who really put out a tremendous effort, with Schedlar putting away 20 points and Sinker potting 16, the Birdmen just couldn’t match Panthermen Jarrett and Westrack who sunk 51 points between them. And so the series is all tied up at a game apiece and one to go next Sunday to decide it all. This was Radio Station CFGT’s first sports broadcast since their opening the Radio Station again after many months of hard work to put it back on the air.

9 Apr 56

CFGT unofficially went on the air to start regular broadcasts tonight with tapes from Canada and regular programs which will be featured during the week. A lot of credit should go to the whole Radio Station Staff for putting this facility back into operation. 416 Squadron on Easter holidays this weekend. 430 Squadron and 421 Squadron flying all day and 16 night sorties carried out by 430 Squadron.

10 Apr 56

Clear weather with local flying all day. 421 Squadron to 4 (F) Wing on Operation Zulu.

11 Apr 56

The hospital reports six births during the past week. CO’s parade this morning practising for the visit of the AOC next week.

Flying time:

The members of the Sgts.’ Mess took over the Rec. Centre for the early part of the evening as part of their members Supper night with some very screwy volleyball games, which means that rules gave way to fun. The Pool was also the battleground for hostilities with Dinghy Races (two men to a One man dinghy) and small naval battles being staged complete with human submarines. The members repaired to the normal scene of action (the Mess) around 2030 hours, to continue games of a more quiet nature.

12 Apr 56

416 Squadron on Exercise Argus today against Hunter Aircraft from 2 ATAF who landed here after the exercise. F/O Cherwick of 416 Squadron had control trouble today and bailed out, no injuries.

13 Apr 56

Mr. HV Tucker of DOT visited the Station accompanied by W/C Pincock to inspect Met facilities. Mr. Tucker was a guest at the dining-in night held in the Officers’ Mess. Local flying following morning briefing. No exercises for today. S/L Lett, F/L Patterson and F/O Wagner left for Canada today.

The Station Entertainment Committee staged a Hard Time Dance in the Rec. Centre with Zeke Dallimore and his corn jug whistlers (alias Tommy Dallimore and his orchestra) playing to a good crowd of over 400 people. Spot dances were features and the band stand was a real centre of attraction with a real live farmer’s wagon filling the bill and lending to the decorations.

14 Apr 56

Mr. Tucker departed for Air Div at 1300 hours. Weather not suitable for jet flying over the weekend. The day arrived for all basketball fans in the final battle between two of the greatest teams ever to meet on the courts of the Air Div. The Rec. Centre was jammed to the hilt with a crowd of over 450 in attendance. It was a thrill to see the Panthers and the Eagles, playing as if possessed, wage war in the tradition of these two great teams. The stars for the Eagles, again playing that straight teamwork type of game they are famous for, were Burtt with 14, Gregg with 13, Sinker with 12, Morrice with 9 and Creighton and Schedlar each with 6. The Air Div men, however, fed the star man of the season in the person of Jarrett, who just couldn’t miss and came up with an all time record of 39 points for one game, followed by Westrack and Donnett with 12 and Michino with 10. The Panthers won this year’s championship by the score of 80-70. that score is the highest for the season and the Eagles needn’t be ashamed of losing out. A/V/M Godwin presented the trophy right there on the field of battle and was convinced that this was "one for books" if he’d ever see one.

15 Apr 56

Sunday routine. Flying time:

The Station Badminton Club sent its best to 3 (F) Wing to compete in the Air Div Badminton Championships. It came home with the championship in the Mixed Doubles portion of the tournament, won by LAW Bouchard and Cpl Mitchell.

16 Apr 56

Cold rainy weather. Final preparations being made for A/V/M Dunlap’s visit. F/O Paul posted in to 421 Squadron from OTU. Little flying today.

17 Apr 56

No Sabre flying today because of continued bad weather.

The hospital reports one birth during the past week. Local flying in again today. 421 Squadron returned from 4 (F) Wing on Zulu operations.

The Intersection Volleyball finals were played off in the Rec. Centre this afternoon with 430 Squadron officers battling it out with 421 Officers, after a season which started in January with fourteen teams, and narrowed down to these two finalists. 430 went into the lead after a very big rally to take the first game by a nice margin. The 421 Indians bared their teeth and came back fighting to snatch the second game and so tie it all up. The third game found the Falcons rallying very well and in a slow but steady rally came up on top to win the Intersection Volleyball Championships for the 1955-56 season. In the evening the first game of the Air Div Women’s Basketball championships was played on 2 (F) Wing ground against the Royalettes of 1 (F) Wing. Although Eaglettes Adamson with 9 points, and McNeil with 8 points, tried to spark their team, the Royalettes won this one by a score of 29-26 with everyone on the 1 (F) Wing team potting 2 or 4 points each. So our girls were down but still two to go for the championship.

19 Apr 56

A/V/M Dunlap was received by the Guard of Honour at 1440 hours and proceeded to the Officers’ Mess for a briefing. A tour of the station was then done and presentation parade was held at 1630 hours. The A/V/M presented 4 CDs and the 430 Squadron crest which was recently approved by Her Majesty. A Mess dinner was held in the evening. Five airmen received their commission today: P/O Given, F/O Smith, F/O Caird, F/O Kiersgaard and F/O Hunt. A very welcome addition. Fly past by four aircraft from 430 Squadron. Training flying for rest of day.

20 Apr 56

Local flying and no exercises planned for today. 416 Squadron practising on target tow for their trip to Rabat.

The first Sports Banquet for the fall and winter sports champions was held in the Airmen’s Mess, put on by the Station Sports Committee and it turned out to be a tremendous success. The guest speaker for the evening, F/O Louis Lecompte of Air Div, gave a short talk on his referee and playing experiences at the ’48 and ’56 Olympics in winter sports. After the guest speaker came the presentation of awards to the winners who are as follows:

Intersection Touch Football Champions – 416 Squadron

Intersection Basketball Champions – Wing HQ

Intersection Volleyball Champions – 430 Squadron

Air Div Mixed Doubles Badminton Champions: LAW Bourchard and Cpl. Mitchell

Presentation of season awards to Station Basketball Teams – men and women

Sportsman of the Year Award – F/O Wilson (416 Squadron)

Sportswoman of the Year Award – LAW Strachan (Wing HQ)

A lot of credit must be given to F/O Bell for the fine meal and to the Sports Committee for the wonderful way in which the whole show was handled.

21 Apr 56

Local flying in the morning. Random Operation arrived in the afternoon with 25 new Sabre Mk VI aircraft for 416 Squadron.

The Air Div Bowling Championships were held in the Station Bowling Alleys at the Rec. Centre. The teams from all units started bowling at 0930 hours in the morning and didn’t wrap it up till the final ball cleared the hardwood at 2330 hours. The teams each bowled 15 games and all Canadian Overseas units were represented. When it was all over, 3 (F) Wing came out as Champions, closely followed by Air Div and then 2 (F) Wing. A small party was held for the bowlers afterwards in the Rec. Centre. A big pat on the back should go to the Intersection Bowling Committee for looking after all arrangements and officiating to make this first Air Div Bowl-off a big success. This same day our soccer Eagles went to 1 (F) Wing and played in a muddy, sliding knock-down game against the strongest team in the League. After many valiant attempts the 2 Wingers finally bowed to the 1 (F) Wing men by a score of 3 to 1, who showed their strength and played a good game in very poor conditions. However, the Eagles are still in the running and by no means not finished with the series.

22 Apr 56

Sunday routine. No local flying today. The second game of the girls Basketball finals was played at 1 (F) Wing and although we have no available records of this away-game, the score told the story as our Eaglettes came jubilant over their 32-26 victory against the Royalettes.

Local flying all day. 416 Squadron pilots brought five reconditioned Mark V aircraft from Renfrew Scot. Today. 14 night flying sorties carried out by 421 Squadron.

24 Apr 56

Mr. Ben Metheral of the Canadian Press accompanied by S/L Lee of Air Div arrived on unit at 0930 hours. He was interviewed by CO and then proceeded on a station tour. S/L Sansoucy of 601 was interviewed as well as Mrs. Sansoucy who is president of the Ladies Auxiliary. F/O Belanger 430 (F) Squadron accompanied Mr. Metheral during the afternoon to Squadron dispersals. Limited local flying because of station inventory check. 15 night flying sorties carried out by 430 Squadron.

The first meeting of the Intersection Fastball Representatives was held in the Rec. Centre at 1315 hours with 14 teams represented and Sgt. Common elected as President of the League, his second year at the job. Games will be played every night Monday through Thursday throughout the summer at 1800 hours on both diamonds behind the Rec. Centre. Later in the afternoon our 2 (F) Wing Volleyball Team (430 Officers) lost the semi-final round to 1 (F) Wing in the Air Division Volleyball Tournament, losing three games straight and thus eliminating them from the finals which are to be held at 1 (F) Wing 28 Apr. The final game of the Women’s Basketball Championship was held on home ground in the Rec. Centre and if a team ever came from behind, our girls did. The Royalettes, although losing one of their good players through injuries, seemed very confident as they took to the floor but there was only a two point difference at half time. Then the bomb went off as the Eaglettes came screaming out in the second half, led by MacNeil with 13 points, and followed by Ells and Farnham each with 7 points to take a lead they never gave up. At the final horn the roof went off (almost) as the fans smothered the floor (over 400) and watched W/C Barnett present the high-flying Eaglettes with the Women’s Basketball Champions trophy. A tip of the hat to LAC Wally Boudreau and F/O Bill Mills who coached, and F/O Betty Bell who managed, this championship team.

25 Apr 56

The first meeting of the Station Baseball Team was held in the Rec. Centre at 1315 hours with Sgt. Messier taking on the duties of coach. The first meeting of the Women’s Fastball team was held at 1500 hours with Sgt. Mercier taking on the coaching of last year’s finalist team. Local flying only, no exercises because of inventory check.

26 Apr 56

Beautiful spring day. Adjutant on sked run to Langar. 430 Squadron takes over Zulu at this base for the first time. First scramble at 0428Z. F/O Couper practising JATO take-offs to get a T33 out of a small field in Germany where it was place by F/O Theriault on Sunday night after he lost his instruments.

The Station Representative Fastball Team had their first meeting in the Rec. Centre at 1315 hours to outline plans for the coming season under the coaching of Sgt. King. At 1500 hours, the first meeting of the re-forming Station Archery club took place in the Rec. Centre to plan the coming summer program. Another $1,000.00 bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with a crowd of over 800 in attendance. The jackpot finally went to Mrs. Scott (wife of S/L Scott, SAO) and so we start building it up again for another lucky winner.

27 Apr 56

P/O Given’s date of repat now advanced to 6 May 56. She is returning to Canada via the C-5. Local flying and Zulu operations all day. 416 Squadron practising target towing and ¼ attacks.

The second annual Intersection Bowling Dance and Buffet was held in the Rec. Centre with music by the Divisionaires and tap-dancing act for the enjoyment of all. The winning team was 4 Hangar Riggers with a total pin fall of 9003 for nine games. The high average for the year went to F/L Burns of Comm Flight and for the girls in the league to LAW Gallant of Accounts.

28 Apr 56

Our girls representative volleyball team went to 1 (F) Wing for the Air Div finals but were knocked out in the first round, so losing a chance at the Air Div Women’s volleyball Championship. Local flying and Zulu operations throughout the day.

29 Apr 56

Zulu operations only on Sunday.

S/L Swardferger and staff SIT Trenton arrived today to begin a SIT course on the Unit. W/C Allen 4 (F) Wing appointed president of a board of inquiry with W/C Laidler as member assembled at 2 (F) Wing today. S/L Belleau arrived to assume temporary command of 421 (F) Squadron. Low ceiling and unserviceable ADF curtailed the flying for most of the day.

1 May 56

May Day in France will be very damp due to the great amounts of rain falling. A/C Bennett, Chief of Personnel with G/C Lane, G/C Cox, G/C Verner, G/C Miller, G/C Schroeder, G/C Hawtrey and W/C Smith arrived at 1400 hours and were given a complete tour of base and PMQ site. An informal dinner was held in the Mess in the evening. Operation Tartan Task cancelled due to weather. Nil flying all Squadrons.

2 May 56

A/C Bennett and W/C Smith gave a talk to all officers during the morning while G/C Miller talked to the airwomen, airmen and NCOs. The party departed by air in the early afternoon. Operation Tartan Task off to UK with five aircraft. Flying in the afternoon only. 430 Squadron finished Zulu operations.

3 May 56

Mr. AH Zimmerman of the DRB arrived at 1210 hours, reviewed the guard of honour, had an informal luncheon with the CO and was briefed on the administrative set up of the station. He was taken on a tour of the station and reviewed the departure guard before leaving for 3 (F) Wing at 1630 hours. 416 Squadron have 8 raiders on exercise Argus penetrating 2 ATAF and landing at Gerlenkinchen, also 8 interceptors at base. Exercise Tartan Task returned from Renfrew today.

4 May 56

General Andrier of the FAF after many changes arrived at 2 (F) Wing. He was briefed by the CO and escorted to the aircraft. 416 Squadron have 12 aircraft on Exercise Sword Slash today. A total of 42 sorties flown on the exercise. Balance of the Wing carried out routine training.

On 2, 3 and 4 may, the Recreation Centre sponsored a baseball and fastball clinic for all those were interested and classes were held both the Rec. Centre and on the playing field. The two instructors, S/Sgt Stewart and M/Sgt Wolf from Ramstein AFB, presented the aspects of the two games to classes of 50 and 60 students. Prospective officials for both intersection and Inter-wing Leagues were also well briefed on the techniques involved in umpiring and covering plays and situations which commonly arise and the group felt that this type of clinic was most valuable to the furtherance of a good calibre of ball on the unit.

5 May 56

The Soccer Eagles played at home against 4 (F) Wing in the last game of the schedule and really showed their might in completely swamping the 4 Wingers by a score of 5 to 0 and thus ending up in second place in the league. The final game will be against 1 (F) Wing to decided the Air Division Soccer Champions. Normal Squadron flying in the morning. 421 Squadron flew 8 sorties on Exercise Rejuvenate landing in England and returning today.

6 May 56

421 Squadron flew 12 sorties to England and return on Exercise Rejuvenate today. No flying by other Squadrons.

7 May 56

Summer weather is here, full flying by all Squadrons. 430 Squadron flew four sorties on Exercise Sentry Post which is a low level trip into Luxembourg.

8 May 56

416 Squadron have 12 aircraft on Exercise Sword Slash as defensive force. 46 sorties on Exercises.

9 May 56

A/C Corbett DGMS and party visited the Wing. A briefing was given by the CO. The A/C was given a tour of the Station and PMQ’s before departing at 1600 hours. The hospital reports seven births during the past week. 416 Squadron takes over Zulu operations at noon today. Local flying by other Squadrons.

10 May 56

421 Squadron has 12 aircraft on Exercise Sword Slash today. 36 sorties flown on exercise. 416 Squadron on Zulu.

Another $1,000.00 bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with a fairly good crowd of over 700 in attendance. The jackpot did not go in 52 numbers and will be held over till the next Bingo.

11 May 56

S/L Swardferger and party having conducted a SIT course on the Unit depart this Wing via service aircraft for 3 (F) Wing. A Shipwreck Dance was held in the Rec. Centre with music provided by Pirate Captain Tommy Dallimore and his crew. A crowd of over 300 were on hand for the festivities in the Cpls. and below frolic for the month. Zulu practice intercepts carried out be 416 Squadron. Other Squadrons on local practice flying.

12 May 56

416 Squadron working on Exercise Zulu over the weekend.

13 May 56

416 Squadron on Zulu. Flying time: 50:55 hours – 39 sorties

14 May 56

General de L’Armee P Bailly CAS of the French Air Force arrived at 1650 hours. A briefing by the CO and S/L Sansoucy was given in the Operations room followed by a tour and a quick turn around at 416 (F) Squadron before departure. Routine briefing at 0800 hours with local flying by all Squadrons. 416 Squadron carried out several practice intercepts on Exercise Zulu.

The Intersection Fastball league started off the season this evening in a real true to fashion set of ball games with talent, in many respects, as good as the Station teams. There are fourteen teams in the league this year with Sgt. Earl Common elected as president for the second year in a row. Games are played every night of the week, Monday through Thursday.

15 May 56

Dr. MG Whillans Assistant Chief Scientist, DRB visited today on his way to Soest. S/L SA Banks, Security Officer from AFHQ also visited the unit and lectures officers and NCOs. CO away on court martial at 4 (F) Wing. The mixed Bowling League had their first organizational meeting this evening with Sgt. Alec Doiron elected as President. They plan to get under way in short order. Zulu practice intercept carried out by 416 Squadron. Limited flying by other Squadrons as 14 pilots from each Squadron went to 1 Wing for escape and evasion exercise Sabot Slog.

16 May 56

Dr. Whillans and S/L Banks continued their visits on unit. 416 Squadron completed Zulu exercise at noon today. 4 aircraft from 430 Squadron on radar calibrations with 61 AC&W.

The hospital reports 7 births during the past week.

17 May 56

S/L Banks departed for Air Div. Another $1,000.00 bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with a crowd of about 650 people out to take their chance at the ping pong balls in the Cage. However the jackpot still stands and will be up to 54 numbers next time. Limited local flying today. 4 aircraft from 416 Squadron and four aircraft from 430 Squadron doing calibration runs with Yellow Jack. Reports from 1 Wing indicate about people from 2 Wing are in the pokey.

18 May 56

Dr. Whillans departed at 0700 hours via service aircraft for Soest. Limited local flying today. F/O Simpson of 430 Squadron got into a spin and could not recover so bailed out, landed with a few bruises. Two MK VI Sabres of 416 Squadron off to Chambley to the air display.

19 May 56

Long week end with no flying except two Sabres returning from Chambley.

20 May 56

The Soccer Eagles accepted an invitation to play in a soccer tournament in the town of Puttelange with nine other French teams from the area. After a real fine series of games our boys came out in fourth place and brought home a trophy to prove it. The people were very impressed with the sportsmanship displayed by our team and they received many invitations to other meets which play a part in the festivals of the area. So our Soccer Eagles are proving themselves as goodwill ambassadors of the home sod as well as good soccer players.

The Mixed Bowling League got under way tonight with a total of 12 teams in the League and will run through till the last week in July, after which the alleys will be under repair for the coming fall and winter season. The Station Baseball Eagles played an exhibition game against 3 Wing losing by a score 14-4 and this was the try-out game for our baseball players.

Brig Wansbrough, Dental Chief from Army HQ visited during the day and departed in the late afternoon. 430 Squadron on exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" landing at Criel and returning. Training flying carried out by other Squadrons.

23 May 56

421 Squadron takes over Zulu Operations for the week commencing at noon today. Training flying by other Squadrons.

24 May 56

S/L Belleau assumed command of 421 (F) Squadron. F/l Hannas reinstated as flight commander and F/L Tibbitt transferred to 4 (F) Wing. Routine briefing in the morning followed by local flying. 421 Squadron on Zulu operations.

Another Live Stage Show was presented at the Astra Theatre by the Special Services Branch from Kaiserslautern with ten big acts. The show was well received by a packed house and many were turned away at the door.

25 May 56

Weather unfit for flying in the morning, local flying in the afternoon. Practice intercept carried out by 421 Squadron on Zulu.

26 May 56

Local flying by Squadrons today. Zulu Operations carried out over the weekend by 421 Squadron.

27 May 56

Sunday routine 421 Squadron on Zulu – 44:00 hours – 34 sorties.

Local flying by Squadrons all day. Weather very warm. 421 Squadron on Zulu.

29 May 56

430 Squadron flew 29 sorties on exercise Track Toil. 416 Squadron on local flying and 421 Squadron on Exercise Zulu.