Grostenquin, France

1 Dec 56

No flying done today. Sunday routine.

2 Dec 56

The basketball Eagles and Eaglettes went to 1 Wing for an afternoon of basketball at its finest. The Eaglettes dropped a very close one by the score of 13-11. The Eagles also suffered defeat in a real crowd pleaser going down to a 54-53 loss.

3 Dec 56

Weather U/S all day. No flying done. Showing of Grey Cup films in Station Theatre this PM. A humiliating defeat for the Eastern twelve. In the first game of the Intersection Basketball finals, the Wing HQ team pulled ahead of Wing Maintenance to win this one 45 to 41.

4 Dec 56

Station visited by Engineers of the "Houillère du Bassin de Lorraine". Toured the station after a briefing by the CO. F/O AA Potvin was guide for the tour. Weather unserviceable all day. No local flying done.

5 Dec 56

Mr. A Smith and party on the station today, visiting DND in St. Avold. A CF-100 from 1 (F) Wing crashed north west of Troyes, France. Luckily both pilot and navigator parachuted to safety. A film on atomic warfare was shown to the pilots after the Met briefing. Local flying carried out by all three Squadrons. 416 Squadron commenced operation Zulu at 1100Z. 421 Squadron night flew 8 sorties.

In the second game of the Intersection Basketball finals Wing HQ showed that they really had the team walking all over Wing Maintenance and winning by a score of 47-31. This makes the Wing HQ the Intersection Basketball Champions for 1956-57.

6 Dec 56

Station visited by G/C Sharp and party here on Sabre Maintenance Manhour trials. The AOC A/V/M Godwin paid an impromptu visit to the unit this afternoon. Limited flying carried out during this morning with 416 on Zulu scrambles. Weather unserviceable all afternoon.

7 Dec 56

Weather socked in with fog. No flying. Dining-in tonight in honour of Squadron personnel leaving for Canada on 5 Jan 57.

8 Dec 56

No flying today. Sunday routine.

9 Dec 56

416 Squadron took two scrambles on Zulu.

The Station Badminton Club held its own Interclub tournament and had a very successful turn out. The Women’s Singles was won by LAW M Bouchard, Ladies Doubles by LAW Bouchard and Mrs. EC Smith, Mixed Doubles won by Cpl. Matthews and LAW Bouchard, Men’s Doubles won by Cpl. D Carmichael and Sgt. B Fife, and Men’s Singles won by Sgt. B Fife. Refreshments were served on Saturday evening for the enjoyment of the club members.

10 Dec 56

Local flying all day. 416 Squadron on Zulu exercises. F/L Shorey of 421 Squadron had an engine flame-out and had to bail out. Aircraft crashed into apartment houses in Saarbrucken, no one was injured. Shorey landed OK.

The regular monthly meeting of the Recreation Council was held at 1330 hours in the WServO’s office. F/O Belliveau back on station after an unfortunate PMC accident while on his way to Le Havre for onward transportation to Canada. Mrs. Belliveau recovering in Landstuhl hospital.

11 Dec 56

F/O GH Shorey is back safe and sound after he had to bail out from his flamed-out Sabre. Local flying all day, no exercises other than Zulu. Two aircraft from 1 (F) Wing taxied into each other on the way out to take off.

12 Dec 56

Mr. Ralph Postun of Arabie Radio Cyprus gave an interesting and informative lecture on the Middle East to 2 (F) Wing personnel. Local flying today. 416 Squadron finished Zulu operations at noon today, also finished flying operations as a Sabre Squadron. They will be disbanded and reform as an all-weather Squadron in Canada.

13 Dec 56

A bit of social flying today. Nothing doing in line of exercises. Night flying carried out by both Squadrons.

14 Dec 56

The Annual Orphans Christmas Party was held in Metz, sponsored by the Ladies Club. Clowns put on a show and Canadian children sang carols prior to the arrival of St. Nicholas, who had presents for the children with plenty of ice cream, candy etc. to add to the occasion.

A mess dinner was held in the Officers’ Mess for the disbandment of 416 (F) Squadron. A/V/M HB Godwin was the guest speaker. A very enjoyable skit was put on by the departing members of the three Squadrons. A bit of flying today. Nil exercises.

15 Dec 56

The Annual Christmas Party for the Dependents was held on the station. The 7 to 12 year olds were in the Theatre seeing two hours of cartoons prior to the arrival of Santa Claus who had presents for all. In the Rec. Centre the 1 to 6 year olds had a real ball, heard Santa Claus arriving by air, saw clowns and finally Santa Claus arrived with presents for all and candy. Later in the afternoon the children of the civilians working on the station had a similar party in the Rec. Centre with St. Nicholas arriving with his toys for all. There was a dance in the Rec. Centre put on by and for the disbandment of 416 Squadron, with music by the Divisionnaires. This was the last official function of the complete squadron prior to its break-up.

The basketball Eagles and Eaglettes travelled to 3 Wing to play the last league games of this year. It was certainly a successful day for 2 Wing. The girls walked all over 3 Wing and soundly trounced them to 27-14 score. The men showed a great display of co-ordinated teamwork and stellar shooting to walk away with an 83-65 win.

A beautiful cloudless day, more like spring than winter. Local day flying by both Squadrons also several night sorties carried out by both Squadrons.

18 Dec 56

Weather continues very nice. Local flying today by both Squadrons as well as night sorties flown by both Squadrons.

The organizational meeting of the Intersection Volleyball League was held at 1315 hours in the Rec. Centre with representatives from 12 teams making up the league. This league will get under way right after the Holiday season.

19 Dec 56

G/C Newson and F/O Gatto off to Air Div in AM. Returned at noon. Weather still very nice and warm. 421 Squadron takes over Zulu operations for over the Christmas holidays. Local flying by 430 (F) Squadron.

20 Dec 56

Nil Sabre sorties flown today. Weather poor. A Monster Bingo was held in the Rec. Centre coupled with the PMQ Council raffle. There were 25 18-pound plus turkeys given away and the Lambretta Motor Bike was won by Cpl. McGinnis. The $1000.00 was won by Mrs. Pullen, about 1,400 people were in attendance and there will be a lot of happy people for Christmas when those birds come steaming out of the ovens.

Nil flying today. Weather poor.

One section of 4 off on one sortie only.

Christmas tour leaves for Switzerland returning 26 Dec 56.

23 Dec 56

Sunday routine. Again only one section of 4 off today.

24 Dec 56

Looking more like Christmas, it snowed over the weekend. F/O FP Belliveau moved into the Adjutant’s office to relieve F/O JA Belanger of his duties prior to his departing for Canada. Finished up early for Christmas season. Nil flying.

25 Dec 56

Christmas day. 421 on Zulu, but nil flying. The Rec. Centre open on Christmas Day from 1330 to 1700 hours with all facilities available for use with exception of swimming pool, which has been closed since middle of November because of heating fuel shortage due to Suez situation.

26 Dec 56

Station stand down. Sunday routine. 421 Squadron finished Zulu today and will be off on New Year’s Leave.

27 Dec 56

Christmas season over. CO departed for England this AM for a week’s leave. WC GH Currie assumes position of Acting/CO. Sandal on local flying. 421 Squadron on New Year’s leave.

28 Dec 56

Weather very foggy and cold. Local flying by 430 Squadron.

The Teen Town sponsored a gala year end dance in the Rec. Centre with teenagers coming from Air Div, 1 and 3 Wings for the occasion. About 150 couples were in attendance to dance to the music of the Divisionnaires. The visitors were put up with families in PMQs. An excellent time was had by all and they look forward to more of the same in 1957.

29 Dec 56

Sunday routine. No flying.

30 Dec 56

No flying. 430 Squadron on standby.

31 Dec 56

CO and family returned from England over week-end. Weather fair. Runway condition icy. Cleared in PM and 430 Squadron endeavoured to complete syllabus of training.

1 Jan 57

New Years Day. Sunday routine. No flying carried out. 430 Squadron on Zulu.

2 Jan 57

Weather cold and very foggy. No flying carried out. 430 Squadron on Zulu.

3 Jan 57

421 Squadron normal flying. 430 Zulu scrambles.

4 Jan 57

G/C Newson resumes command of 2 (F) Wing. Nine pilots left for Le Havre to be repatriated to Canada. Flying scrubbed, weather unserviceable in AM and PM. There was a meeting of the Team Captains for the Intersection Volleyball League.

No flying but Zulu due to bad weather.

Sunday one section scrambled. 3 and 4 landed 2 (F) Wing, 1 and 2 landed at 4 (F) Wing and returned later.

There was an exhibition basketball game between the 1 (F) Wing Royals and the 2 Wing Eagles here at home. The Eaglemen slowly pulled away from the Royals in spite of the loss of a number of players on leave. When it was all over the Eagles has soundly beaten the 1 (F) Wing men by a score of 75-53.

7 Jan 57

No flying AM due to fog. Squadrons played Volleyball in the morning. S/L JLA Roussell returned from Canada to be WOpsO. Tonight was the starting evening of the Intersection Volleyball League with 12 teams entered and competition starting off really hot in both the "A" and "B" League.

8 Jan 57

Snow – runways still closed in AM. Opened in PM for short while, very little flying put in.

9 Jan 57

Good weather all day with local flying by both Squadrons. 430 Squadron completed Zulu at noon.

10 Jan 57

Weather out all day. No flying.

Weather fair- mild and wet. Dining-in night held at Officers’ Mess. 421 Squadron on Exercise Argus, a total of 16 sorties flown on the Exercise. 430 Squadron stood down after Zulu operations.

12 Jan 57

Sunday routine. No flying over the weekend. 421 Squadron on Zulu back-up.

13 Jan 57

The 2 Wing badminton club played host to their 1 Wing counterpart Club in a very successful weekend tournament. The 2 Wingers were victorious in all of the competition with the exception of the Mixed Doubles. Entertainment and refreshments were the order of the Saturday evening and a very pleasant time was had by both Clubs.

14 Jan 57

Squadrons happy again. Weather good and flying back to normal again. Turning very cold. No Operations or Exercises today.

15 Jan 57

Mr. Clark, Tech Rep for CF-100s arrived on station today. Good weather, local flying by Squadrons. Four aircraft Mk V returned to Scottish Aviation at Prestwick.

16 Jan 57

Local flying by the Squadrons. 421 Squadron takes over Zulu operations at noon today. An F-84 from Sembach left for home today.

17 Jan 57

Clear skies and very cold. F/O R Stewart (421) had flame out today, landed safely on field. Slight damage to aircraft, nil to pilot. Local day flying by both Squadrons. Night sorties carried out by 430 Squadron.

The first games by our High School Girls and Boys basketball teams were played at 3 Wing with our girls winning 27-10 and the boys winning over the 3 Wingers by a healthy margin of 41-25

18 Jan 57

Weather remaining excellent. 430 Squadron standing by to ferry four more Sabre aircraft to Prestwick, Scotland. Local flying by both Squadrons all day. Scan Plan only exercise for today.

The station Square Dance Club sponsored and ran a Station Dance featuring both square and round dancing to the music of Wally Walkulinski and his band. This was an all ranks dance and was enjoyed by a crowd of over 400.

19 Jan 57

421 Squadron carried out practice intercepts on Zulu Exercises over the weekend.

2 Wing played host to 3 Wing in basketball this weekend. The Eaglettes lost a real heartbreaker by the score of 13-12 and the men were very lucky in coming out on the better side of a 59-58 score after a five minute overtime period. Sinker was the star of the game putting away a total of 41 points for the Eaglemen.

21 Jan 57

Weather poor in the morning. Local flying in the afternoon by both Squadrons. W/C Banville completed contact training at 3 Wing and takes over as COpsO this Unit G/C Newson and W/C Dunning left for Luxembourg in the PM to attend a formal function.

22 Jan 57

CO arrived back on the station after lunch. 421 Squadron on Zulu intercepts today. 430 Squadron on local flying. F/L DE Wilson on 430 Squadron had control troubles and bailed out five miles south of base, landed safely.

23 Jan 57

G/C Gerau (Accounts) from AFHQ and W/C Gamble (SOAF) from Air Div visited the station today. Word was received this morning that F/L Jessop and F/O Vann were involved in a PMC accident whilst returning from 1 (F) Wing on business. Both received minor injuries. Sad news received from the hospital this PM. FS DP Bergie from Wing Maint passed away resulting from a heart attack. 421 Squadron completed Zulu Operations at noon today. Local flying by 430 Squadron.

24 Jan 57

Weather good, local flying by Squadrons. F/O’s promotion exams this week causing a shortage of pilots on both Squadrons.

The High School basketball teams played at Air Division and the girls really walked away with an 11-3 win while the boys had to do a lot of good close checking to hold their 33-30 win over Air Div. The first in the new year’s Bingo series was held with a $500.00 jackpot with no other prize under $20.00 and a large Grundig Radio as the halfway prize. A good crowd of over 500 were in attendance, but the jackpot didn’t go.

25 Jan 57

Local flying by the Squadrons. The last of the Mk V Sabres left the station today for Prestwick Scotland.

A re-scheduled pair of basketball games were played here with Air Division Men and Women’s teams. The Eaglettes won a close one over the Div Dax by a score of 14-11 while the men walked away from the Panthers of Air Div by a very large margin of 65-36. Again sinker led the Eagles in scoring with a healthy 34 points toward the win.

26 Jan 57

Funeral of FS Bergie. Son F/O Bergie arrived approximately 1200 hours via the T-33. Sunday routine. No local flying by the Squadrons. 430 Squadron on weekend standby. The Annual Air Division Gymnastic Display was held at Air Div HQ this year and 2 Wing supplied an excellent trampoline team of six men to add to their programme, this being the only Wing that has this type of club, plus a hand balancing act. The 2 Wing badminton club went to 1 Wing to reciprocate the initiation of that unit in another interclub tournament. 2 Wing wasn’t quite so fortunate when meeting 1 Wing on their home courts, losing all five competitions, although the main portion of our club were on operations and a few on leave, the club had a wonderful time and some excellent badminton was in evidence throughout the whole tournament.

27 Jan 57

The Eagles and Eaglettes travelled to 4 Wing to do the honours in basketball and had a successful day out of it. The Eaglettes soundly trounced the 4 Wing girls to the tune of 34-18 without any difficulty at all. The Eagles didn’t find it quite so easy, with height in 4 Wing favour, but pulled out a win in the final five minutes with a real burst, and in true Eagle style, came home with the 50-45 win under their wing.

28 Jan 57

At the invitation of the USAF, FS H Easy and Sgt. R Estabrooks were sent to the USAFE Coaches and Umpires (Baseball) Clinic at Lansburg Air Force Base in Germany. These men will then hold clinics here at 2 Wing to help improve the calibre of ball being played at this unit and throughout the division. Two men were sent from other wings as well, so this should have far reaching effects in the over all picture of baseball for 1957.

29 Jan 57

Local flying throughout the day and night, exercises flown by both Squadrons.

30 Jan 57

In the afternoon, the station was visited by a liaison officer of the FAF Mr. Debauchamp. Weather out in the morning. Local flying in the afternoon. 430 Squadron takes over Zulu operations at noon today.

31 Jan 57

Clear blue skies. Squadrons kept busy all day. 430 Squadron took advantage of the weather to put in some night flying. Unfortunate mishap the AM. LAC JG Godin committed suicide in his barrack block. Lots of excitement.

Our High School basketball teams played host this week to the 3 Wing Teenagers and the Gym was the sight of some very excellent basketball. Our girls won in a close contest which could have gone either way, but went the way we hoped for when they pulled it out of the fire by a score 18-15. The boys virtually walked all over 3 Wing and the sad ending for the 3 Wingers was a 58-29 victory for our Black Devils, making both our teams top dog in the High School League to date. Another $500.00 Bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with a good crowd of over 450 in attendance in spite of the inclement weather. The Jackpot wasn’t won but many other fine prizes were taken away, including some won by members of the new 423 Squadron and their families. Good show all round.

1 Feb 57

430 on Zulu all day. Weather clear. 421 Squadron on local flying.

2 Feb 57

The children’s swimming classes started again after the pool was re-opened and the heating situation had eased up. Approximately 165 children are attending these classes which are run on the Red Cross system of teaching and testing.

Fair weather all weekend with 430 Squadron on Zulu practice intercepts. Some T-33s away to England and Gibraltar for week-end trips.

4 Feb 57

Funeral of the late LAC Godin. Weather clear, local flying by 421 Squadron and 430 on Zulu.

5 Feb 57

430 on Zulu. 421 on exercise Tuesday Scrimmage landing at Cambrai to visit with French AF returned in the afternoon.

6 Feb 57

No exercises planned for today. 430 Squadron completed Zulu operations at noon today. Local flying by both Squadrons.

7 Feb 57

AOC, G/C Turnbull and G/C Newson departed Bremergarten to attend the 4^th ATAF Commanders Conference. 421 Squadron on Exercise Argus intercepting the RAF. 430 Squadron on local flying.

The $1000.00 Bingos have been cut to $500.00 and merchandise prizes have been introduced along with the cash prizes. Over 600 people attended this bingo and the half-way prize was a Telefunken radio. The High School basketball Teams (Girls and Boys) played here against 1 Wing. The girls played a very good game but were out-shot by their 1 Wing counterparts and lost to the tune of 16-9. Our boys were the recipients of an overwhelming victory swamping 1 Wing 89-20.

8 Feb 57

G/C and Mrs Newson arrived back from conference at 1610 hours. A meeting of the soccer team was held in the Rec. Centre to outline plans for the coming Spring season. Weather fair, both Squadrons on local flying all day.

9 – 10 Feb 57

421 Squadron on standby for the weekend. Four Sabres visited Denmark for the weekend from 430 Squadron. A big Basketball weekend was held at 2 Wing with 1, 2 and 4 Wings all participating. The first two games were played between 1 and 4 Wing and 1 Wing took both games in the afternoon. In the evening 1 Wing and the Eagles and Eaglettes played a series of re-scheduled games. The girls lost a very close one with the possibility of it going either way but finally dropping behind by a score of 26-22. The Eagles looked very bad against the Royals, who took the lead after the first five minutes of play and never lost it through the rest of the game to beat the Eagles 63-40. On Sunday afternoon the story was reversed for the Eagles and Eaglettes with the girls soundly trouncing the Raiderettes by the score 18-7. The men certainly showed the old championship style, too, as they clobbered the 4 Wing Raiders to the tune of 64-49.

11 Feb 57

This morning word was received from the hospital that LAC Sullivan died early this morning as a result of a PMC accident. 430 Squadron stood down for the day. 421 Squadron on local training trips.

12 Feb 57

Local flying by both Squadrons. Preparing for 423 AW Squadron who left Canada today.

The Canadian Army Brigade in Soest sent down a representative basketball team for an exhibition Series with 2 and 3 Wings. The Eagles played them this evening and it was pretty evident as to who had the better basketball players as the Eagles cleaned up with a score of 63-40 over the Army.

13 Feb 57

Funeral for LAC Sullivan today. Very high winds and rain all day, no flying from this unit. 421 Squadron took over Zulu operations at noon today.

14 Feb 57

Local flying carried out all day by both Squadrons. Other than practice intercepts on Zulu no exercises for the day.

A Live Show was held in the Theatre with a capacity crowd enjoying the variety of acts. The High School basketball teams played host to Air Div Boys and Girls. The girls lost a rough one with the Air Div tribe losing out 27-9. The boys weren’t so fortunate, as they couldn’t even get started while the Air Div boys took the win 51-36.

15 Feb 57

421 on Zulu today. 430 on local flying. 423 AW Squadron was to arrive today but weather was not suitable and they landed at Kinloss, should arrive tomorrow.

16 – 17 Feb 57

First section of CF-100s arrived approximately 1230 hours. By 1600 hours, 19 of them had arrived and advised one more to come in tomorrow. S/L Bourque smoked the peace pipe with W/C Handley and everyone proceeded to the mess for an informal party. 421 Squadron on Zulu operations. 430 Squadron off for weekend.

The Badminton Club played host to 4 Wing this weekend for an Invitation tournament and some very fine badminton was seen with 2 Wing taking both singles events and 4 Wing winning the three double events for a finish of a very successful weekend.

18 Feb 57

421 on Zulu today. 430 on normal flying. 423 still on serviceability and organizational problems.

19 Feb 57

Weather bad, danger of freezing rain. "Tuesday Scrimmage" cancelled at 1000 hours local because of bad weather at Creil. Restricted flying washed in about 1015 local. All F-86s and T-33s grounded for special inspection at about 1100 hours. Limited flying in PM as aircraft came off inspection.

20 Feb 57

421 Squadron on Zulu all AM, 430 Squadron on normal flying. GCA on maintenance in PM, no flying as weather below limits.

21 Feb 57

Runway unserviceable because of ice until about 1000 hours local. Both Squadrons on normal flying. Weather perfect. Ex. Scan Plan on again, off again several times, finally off around 1130 local. Another $500.00 Bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with a crowd of over 500 in attendance. The jackpot didn’t go but some very nice prizes were won, including another $100.00 radio. Our High School teams travelled to 1 Wing for the last regular games of the schedule. The girls won 13-12 after a very tight squeeze right at the final seconds of the game. The boys bounced to their normal form by taking 1 Wing 33-19.

22 Feb 57

Both Squadrons on normal flying all day.

23 – 24 Feb 57

430 Squadron on Zulu back up. Two T-33s flown on Saturday and Sunday to give QGH training for new tower control operators. RC Padre held confirmation ceremony today and has as the officiating bishop a newly consecrated African Bishop, His Excellency Monsignor Gantin. The Eagles and Eaglettes played host to their Air Div counterparts this Sunday and showed them how the game was played. The girls came virtually roaring through in the last five minutes of their game to swarm all over Air Div and take it 22-16. The Eagles wore the Panthers into the ground and held them under an iron thumb by taking the game by a fantastic score of 82-42.

25 Feb 57

G/C Kanyon, Air Attaché in Prague Czechoslovakia, arrived this station today for a week of flying. Flying washed out initially. All pilots briefed on emergency fuel system by tech rep. 423 AW Squadron commenced their flying today.

26 Feb 57

Tuesday Scrimmage planned and executed but French aircraft and our aircraft both landed at Reims instead of here because of fuel shortage of the French aircraft. Otherwise normal flying.

27 Feb 57

Lectures all morning. 430 Squadron took over Zulu at noon. 421 Squadron did exercise Round Robin landing at Oldenburg.

28 Feb 57

Restricted flying initially because of low visibility. After 1100 hours local, normal flying rest of day. 423 Squadron flying in local exercises. Zulu flying some night sorties after normal days flying.

1 Mar 57

Weather excellent all day. 430 Squadron on Zulu, scrambled on "live" in morning. 421 and 423 Squadrons on normal flying.

2 – 3 Mar 57

Beautiful weather (CAVU) 430 Squadron on Zulu all week-end. No live scramble but Zulu section was asked by Yellow Jack to carry out a search around Etain USAF Air Base to investigate an IFF emergency squawk that disappeared shortly after appearance on radar scope. Nothing found, No flying carried out by 421 and 423.

The second wrestling show for the Winger season was put on in the Rec. Centre with the co-operation of the Nancy wrestling federation. There were a total of six matches including one which features Lady Wrestlers. A crowd of 450 persons were in attendance, which was much more than expected due to the exodus of people to the Fasching celebrations in Saarbrucken, Zweibrucken and Frankfurt.

4 Mar 57

Another beautiful day. 430 Squadron still on Zulu. 421 Squadron sent two sections of two to Andhover and Geilenkirchen on Round Robin Exercise. All went well, Night flying carried out by 421 Squadron, 423 and Training Flight. Six officers from Air Div did night flying. Semi-emergency declared. F/O Stewart (421) had partially locked controls. Landed successfully.

5 Mar 57

Regular day again. 430 on Zulu. No other exercises during the day.

The basketball Eagles and Eaglettes travelled to 3 Wing to play a re-scheduled game. The girls took it walking away with 3 Wing girls suffering a 21-5 defeat at the hands of our Eaglettes. The men’s game was a reverse situation with the Maple Leafs from 3 Wing showing a strong driving offensive press to defeat the Eagles by a score of 58-39.

6 Mar 57

430 Squadron off Zulu at noon. A section of four aircraft from 421 went to Istres on High Nav cross country. GCA on maintenance in the morning because of expected rain in the afternoon. S/L Warren and Cpl. Kasler from Chatham arrived at noon. They are visiting all the Wings.

7 Mar 57

421 Squadron on Argus, but exercise cancelled because of inclement weather. 421 Squadron was part of the raider force. Nevertheless they were scrambled on an intercept by Yellow Jack. Low clouds all day. Controlled flying in progress. Talk by CO about sonic booms.

The first game of the Air Div High School Basketball Finals was played at Air Div HQ with our boys winning the first game on the Metz floor by a 39-31 victory to take the lead in the two game-total point series. The Wolf Cub Packs affiliated with unit had a party in the Rec. Centre with refreshments served by willing mothers and fathers who came out and joined the fun of the young lads.

8 Mar 57

Restricted flying instituted after Met Briefing. Argus cancelled because of inclement weather. GCA went unserviceable at 1040. Aircraft diverted to 4 Wing. GCA serviceable after lunch. 423 flying all afternoon. Aircraft from 430 Squadron came back from 4 Wing. Weather poor. Low ceiling and rain. Two Mysteres arrived from Dijon.

9 – 10 Mar 57

Poor weather in the morning. Low scattered clouds and poor visibility. Nil flying by the squadrons, two Sabres to Denmark on a week-end Nav trip. The two Mysteres returned to Dijon on 9 Mar. Flying carried out in T-33 aircraft by Ops Personnel Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Beautiful weather Sunday all day. The Eagles and Eaglettes travelled to 1 Wing for the last regular scheduled game of the season in the inter-wing basketball schedule. The girls lost to the 1 Wing, in a pretty close game, by the score of 29-23. Our Eaglettes seem to be jinxed every time they play the Royalettes having been beaten all four times that they have met. The Eagles seem to have a similar problem, dropping another very close game to the Royals of 1 Wing by the score of 65-61.

11 Mar 57

The regular monthly meeting of the Recreational Council was held in the Conference Room at 1315 hours, with this group now having access to a budget of $1500.00 which was granted for their specific use by Station Fund. Nice day, no special exercise on except Scan Plan. 430 Squadron on day off. 423 and Training Flight on night flying. Very hazy at night.

12 Mar

French Naval Commander Moreau from Paris is to visit the CO and 2 (F) Wing today. FLO to be escort officer. Good day all around. All squadrons flying. Night flying by 421 and 423 Squadrons.

13 Mar 57

G/C Newson presented with miner’s lamp by executives of local mining area in appreciation for a visit to the base extended to them by the CO. No flying during morning because of lectures for all aircrew. Again beautiful weather. 421 Squadron went on Zulu at noon. 430 Squadron sending 5 pilots to the physiological course at Weisbaden (Germany)

14 Mar 57

421 Squadron still on Zulu. Had an early take off, good weather early morning, but low clouds arrived shortly after. Restricted flying in the morning and early afternoon. Tragedy again had hit home. F/O WB Wilson on Zulu with 421 Squadron declared emergency at 1500Z near Weisbaden. Aircraft crashed shortly after. Fatal accident.

The annual RCAF Signal Bowl-offs were held in the Rec. Centre with 2 teams from the Men’s Intersection League, one airwomen’s team and one team from the afternoon Ladies League making up the complement of 4 teams entered. The scores are certified by the Wing RECO and sent by signal, via Air Div, to AFHQ to be compared with those of all other units for the RCAF-wide champions. The second game of the High School Boys basketball Finals were played here in the Rec. Centre in one of the closest games seen on the courts all year in any league. The Black Devils from our High School finally came through in the final seconds of the game to win by a score of 35-32, giving them the win in both games and also the high aggregate in total points to take the championship. The Commanding Officer presented the trophy to the winners with his congratulations on a splendid season of clean play and sportsmanship. A real father in those boys caps and also cheers to Mr. Dupont, their coach, who did a very wonderful job. Another live stage show was put on in the Station Theatre with the sponsorship of the Station Entertainment Committee in conjunction with US Army Special Services Branch in Kaiserslautern. A capacity house were entertained by this professional group and applauded long and loud in appreciation of the talent and acts on the program.

15 Mar 57

Station busy preparing for funeral of the late F/O WB Wilson to be held on 18 Mar. Restricted flying because of weather. 421 on Zulu and 423 playing with local practice scrambles, doing fairly good too. C-47 going to 3 Wing with members of Board of Inquiry for F/O Wilson’s accident. Weather clear early afternoon. 423 Squadron not flying during weekend. Sabre 670 going to Scottish Aviation Renfrew. Visit by a F-86F Belgium Air Force.

In the first game of the semi-finals in the Air Div Men’s & Women’s Basketball Championship were played here against 3 Wing Men’s and Women’s teams. In the girls’ game, our Eaglettes showed championship form in taking the first game by a score of 21-16. The men were not so fortunate, and a little discouraged and confused with the sudden loss of their very fine coach F/O Bill Wilson who was killed in a flying mishap the previous day and were badly beaten by 3 Wing by the score of 66-51.

16 – 17 Mar 57

Normal week-end flying by T-33 aircraft. 421 still on Zulu. Weather cloudy and scattered rain showers, cool during both days.

The Station Badminton Club had their qualifying tournament to determine the team which would be sent to 4 (F) Wing the following weekend to represent the unit in the Air Division Badminton Championships. The second games of the two game total point series in the Basketball Semi-finals was played at 3 Wing. The situation was much the same as the first games with the Eaglettes winning their game 38-24 and cinching their berth in the finals with 1 Wing. The men again were defeated losing by a score of 58–49, to put 3 Wing in the finals with 1 Wing.

18 Mar 57

Weather rainy and foggy. Funeral for F/O Bill Wilson held at 0900 hours in the Protestant Chapel. Church was filled. As body was being marched off the station, 421 (F) Squadron did a 4 plane fly past paying their last respects to Bill. G/C Newson departed for Trier today where he is participating in a paper war for a period of approximately 10 days. W/C Currie assumes position of CO while he is away. 430 Squadron did Zulu for 421 Squadron today because of funeral.

19 Mar 57

421 on Zulu. 430 on restricted flying in early morning. Afternoon flying no restriction.

20 Mar 57

Weather perfect. 421 Squadron on Zulu. 430 Squadron on normal flying until 1500 hours. Night flying by 430 and 423 Squadrons.

21 Mar 57

Another excellent day. Both 421 and 430 on normal flying, as well as 423 Squadron. 421 night flying.

Another $500.00 Bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with over 600 people in attendance. The merchandise Jackpot is getting bigger each time and no one has won the cash jackpot although many have come very close. The bingos will run each week now up until the Thursday before Easter. The Easter Bunny is going to be good to someone by the looks of things.

22 Mar 57

421 Squadron on stand down today. Weather clear, but visibility down to one mile in fog at start of flying.

The PMQ council, assisted by the Recreation Staff, put on a Couples Dance in the St. Patrick’s Day Spirit with Tommy O’Dallimores Orchestra providing the music. This fine band, who play for Radio Luxembourg, performed for a crowd of over 150 couples, and refreshments and festivities were enjoyed by all.

23 – 24 Mar 57

Sunday routine. No flying. The Eaglettes travelled to 1 Wing for the first in a best of two out of three games to decide the Air Division Women’s Basketball championship. In a game which was classic in close checking, fantastic shooting and fast breaks, our girls won this game by a foul shot which was successful by LAW McNeil at the final gun, with a score of 31-30. The Air Division Badminton Championships were held at 4 Wing and the final results were to put 1 Wing in first place with 19 points and 2 and 4 Wings tied for second place with 17 points each. Cpl. Carmichael and LAC Davies brought home the Men’s Doubles Championship to the Unit in one of the best tournaments on the continent. In the second game of the Women’s Basketball Championships, the Eaglettes playing on their home floor proved, without a doubt, just who was going to come out on top. At half time 1 Wing were ahead 21 to 17, but in the second half an inspired and hard driving team took to floor in the form of the Eaglettes who scored 14 points to 1 Wing’s two to take the championship by the score of 31-23. W/C Currie presented the trophy to the girls with his congratulations for a fine season of ball and inspired finish over a team who they couldn’t beat once in the regular season of play.

25 Mar 57

CO expected to return sometime this week. Weather perfect. 421 on exercise Scan Plan. 421 doing some drogue towing and cine work.

26 Mar 57

421 on Tuesday Scrimmage. Four Mystere IV A aircraft from Cambrai landed here. Exercise Scan Plan held in afternoon. Handcuff 58 F/O Jory of 423 Squadron had a semi-emergency, landing without hydraulics, without incident. Weather excellent.

27 Mar 57

CO returned this PM after participating in paper war. A team of 3 Armament Officers visited the station this AM. There was a meeting of the Recreation Officers and NCOs of all the units in the Air Division at 3 Wing to conclude the fall and winter schedule and plan the events for the coming spring and summer. Lectures in morning until 0915 hours. Weather well above VFR. 421 Squadron took over Zulu at noon for one day thus paying back 430 Squadron the day owed them. GCA off for scheduled maintenance all morning. ADF unserviceable until 1500 hours. 423 Squadron took over Zulu this evening.

28 Mar 57

First Zulu mission of the morning, #2 F/L Hrischenko declared an emergency shortly after take off with generator failure. He landed safely nine minutes after airborne. 421 still on Zulu until noon. 430 doing Scan Plan this morning. Weather fair with frequent showers. Cloud up to 36,000 feet so 423 Squadron went on Zulu state at noon thus releasing one F-86 section. All CF-100 aircraft grounded for technical reasons, except for "live" and "hot".

Again the Station Entertainment Committee sponsored the $500.00 Bingo in the Rec. Centre with the Jackpots still holding out in 53 numbers. A crowd of over 600 people were in attendance for the weekly feature which must go before Easter.

29 Mar 57

421 on Scan Plan, the last trip of the year. 430 Squadron on Zulu, flew four practice scrambles in morning. Weather good. 421 Squadron got orders to deploy to Florennes, Belgium on Monday 1 April and a Belgium F-84F Squadron is coming in here.

30 – 31 Mar 57

430 Squadron and 423 Squadron on Zulu all weekend. Weather very good.

1 Apr 57

A/C Whiting (CE) and party from AFHQ arrived this AM for conference with the CO, CTechSO and CEO. 421 (F) Squadron started to move out their 12 aircraft at 0830 hours local to Florennes, Belgium. Number 2 Squadron, 83 Group of the Belgian Air Force arrived around 1100Z with 9 aircraft F-84Fs. The last aircraft blew both tires on landing, and blocked the runway, causing Zulu to stop a practice scramble and one F-86 to be diverted to 3 Wing. 430 Squadron did some night flying after Zulu.

2 Apr 57

G/C Newson spent the day in Trier where they had a SHAPE celebration. Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage cancelled on our request since 430 Squadron was on Zulu and 421 Squadron on TD. Restricted flying in for No. 2 Squadron and 421 Squadron as visibility below 3 miles in haze. No. 2 Squadron did not fly all day as GCA UHF went unserviceable.

3 Apr 57

Weather low in morning with no alternates. Flying washed out initially. GCA UHF still unserviceable. A C-47 took off for Florennes for UHF parts.

4 Apr 57

Exercise Argus scheduled for today. 430 Squadron on 10 minutes readiness at 0745Z with 8 aircraft on the ORP. At 0955, Argus fighters released until 1345Z because of bad weather in 2 ATAF. Flew Argus in PM 8 sorties.

Another $500.00 bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with a crowd of over 700 people in attendance. Cash and merchandise prizes were won but main jackpot still didn’t go.

5 Apr 57

Weather excellent. 430 on local flying, two special calibration runs for Yellow Jack. 423 on normal flying. Belgian squadron operating, one aircraft landed at Luxeil, pilot phone in verifying he was okay.

6 – 7 Apr 57

Weekend, no flying. The men’s basketball team from Langar visited the unit for an exhibition series with the Eagles. In the first game on the Friday evening before, the Eagles swamped the Redmen from Langar by a score of 63-42 with Sinker putting away 22 points in one of the better evenings of the season. The following evening, however, saw the Redmen bounce back to win by a score of 51-38 to reverse the previous nights event and leave the series in a draw. The Air Division Bonspiel was held at 4 Wing and 2 Wing sent a group of 4 teams to represent the unit. Our unit ended up in third spot behind 3 Wing and 4 Wing. Not a bad showing at all for unit which has no rink facilities.

8 Apr 57

CO left for UK where he will spend 1 week at the School of Land-Air Warfare. W/C Curries assumes command of 2 (F) Wing in his absence. 430 Squadron on stand down. 421 Squadron, 423 Squadron and Belgian Squadron on normal flying.

9 Apr 57

Belgian station commander from Florennes flew into 2 (F) Wing by F-84 today to spend a couple of days with his squadron which is on exchange here. Weather clear. 430, 421 and 423 Squadrons on normal flying.

10 Apr 57

Station held first CO’s parade of the season this morning. The turnout was excellent and the parade itself was very good for the first one. 421 Squadron took over Zulu at noon and 423 Squadron at dusk. Three pilots departed on TD to Weisbaden for decompression, along with two from Air Division.

11 Apr 57

Belgian Station Commander departed for Florennes this AM. Weather fair. 421 on Zulu, 430 on normal flying and Belgian Squadron doing normal flying.

The last $500.00 bingo before Easter was enjoyed in the Rec. Centre by a crowd of over 900 people, all after that big jackpot. To stimulate things another $500.00 jackpot was started the same evening so that there were two big prizes available if anyone was lucky enough. The main jackpot was won by LAC Hoffman of 601 Radio Rely Squadron.

12 Apr 57

Weather unusual for France this time of year. Snowed twice during the morning. 430 Squadron sent two aircraft to Lahr on Exercise Round Robin, 421 Squadron on Zulu. 423 on normal flying in daytime, on Zulu at night.

13 –14 Apr 57

Weekend – Sunday routine, Zulu flying.

The Air Division Volleyball Championships were held at 3 Wing and our unit had a men’s and women’s team represented, both of which were the Intersection Champions for 2 Wing. The women were beaten out in the finals, losing the best two-out-of-three to Air Div and the men lost out to 3 Wing in the semi-finals to come third. The Boys Choir of Nancy put on a concert in the Theatre on Sunday afternoon. This choir is one of the best in Europe and although only 150 people turned out to hear them, many more wished they had come after hearing the wonderful reports of those who had been present and witnessed this recital.

15 Apr 57

G/C Newson returned this morning after spending 1 week on course in the UK. Weather excellent. 423 and 421 Squadrons on Zulu. 430 Squadron sent four aircraft on special calibration exercise for a British radar station.

The organization meeting of the Station Fastball teams, both men and women, was held in the Rec. Centre at 1315 hours. Because 2 Wing was the only unit prepared to enter a team in an interwing league, the teams decided to play exhibition games all summer in preparation for the all-star series to be held in September.

16 Apr 57

SOPR called this morning and advised that Mr. Joseph Glod, Luxembourg newspaper reporter, would be visiting 2 Wing in the afternoon. Mr. Glod arrived with his wife, had lunch in the Officers’ Mess and was then taken to T-33 flight where he was given an hour flight in the T-33. He was interviewed by the CO and then given a 30 minute ride in the F-86 simulator. Word has been received on the base of two major postings. G/C Newson is being posted sometime in June and his replacement is to be G/C Searle from CEPE Rockcliffe. Also S/L Bourque OC 421 (F) Squadron is being posted to 3 (F) Wing in July. S/L Dunlop will be replacing him as new OC. 430 Squadron on Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage sent 4 Sabres to land at Creil. Exercise unsuccessful in morning due to French taking off early and 430 Squadron taking off late. Exercise successful in the afternoon. Two Belgian Meteor VIIIs dropped in on us in the afternoon from Bierset for a quick turnaround on Round Robin. 421 on Zulu did 11 scrambles. 423 on Zulu at night.

The organization meeting of the Intersection Fastball League was held in the Rec. Centre at 1315 hours with representatives turning out for fourteen teams. With very little inter-wing competition this year, many of the members of last year’s station team will be playing intersection. There will be a play-off of the winners of the Inter-section League for an Air Div trophy at the end of the season. The League will commence 6 May 57.

17 Apr 57

This morning the CO interviewed four of our new pilots: F/O Dick Ursel and F/O Ken Shepherdson who go to 430 (F) Squadron and F/O Bill VanOene and F/O Jack Hamilton who go to 421 (F) Squadron. Weather good. 421 Squadron finished Zulu at noon, and took a "live" scramble just at the turnover time when one of their sections had been released. It was a high flying friendly aircraft. 430 Squadron shut down flying early in the afternoon, then flew 12 aircraft on night cross country exercises. 423 Squadron did both day and night flying exercises, the ones at night in co-operation with 1 (F) Wing.

The organization meeting of the Station Baseball team was held at 1315 hours in the Rec. Centre. Over 40 men turned out for the meeting and practices will be starting after the Easter week-end. The season officially opens the last weekend in May with teams being represented from 1, 2, 3 and 4 Wings.

18 Apr 57

CO was admitted to the hospital this date for an unknown period of time – possible a week to 10 days. Weather fair. 421 Squadron on standdown all day. 430 Squadron on normal daytime flying, with 430 Squadron also doing some night flying. Weekend training trips took off for Denmark and UK by T-33 and to the UK by Sabres.

19 to 22 Apr 57

Easter weekend, no flying. Sunday routine. The Easter tour to Holland left morning of 19 Apr with 31 people away to enjoy the Tulip Festival annually held in this country in the area surrounding Amsterdam.

23 Apr 57

Dr KK Neeley from Defence Research Medical Laboratories visited the station today and held a conference with SMO and party. A four man team from National Film Board arrived today to commence shooting of a 30 minute colour film on living conditions on and off the base. The team consisted of three men and 1 woman: Mr. Hewittson, Mr. Hamble, Mr. Bradley and Miss Thivierge. They expect to be here for a period of a week to 10 days. Weather excellent. Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage cancelled at 0820Z for reasons unknown. F/L Hoar of 421 Squadron declared emergency over field because of smoke in cockpit. Landed safely.

24 Apr 57

CO’s parade cancelled in the morning due to inclement weather. National Film Board started shooting interior shots today. No flying carried out in the morning. All aircrew personnel assembled in the station theatre to attend a briefing on the forthcoming Escape and Evasion exercise by F/L Davies, Air Div IntO. Light rain in the morning. Fair weather in the afternoon. 430 and 423 Squadrons on Zulu at noon.

25 Apr 57

Clear skies again with a few scattered rain showers in the late afternoon. National Film Board at work on the interior shooting. A/V/M Godwin visited the station in the afternoon. Normal flying by 421 Squadron. Lots of flying by the squadrons on Zulu. F/O Button 421 Squadron declared emergency over field following loss of engine power. Landed safely.

Another live show was held in the Theatre to a capacity crowd of 350. The show lasted for two and a half hours and was studded with wonderful talent from all over Europe and USA.

26 Apr 57

G/C Diamond, CO of Station Trenton arrived 2 (F) Wing this morning from Naples on his way home to Canada. Exclusive flying by all squadrons. Good weather. COpsO acting CO since Tuesday 23 Apr. F/L Farnham (OpsO) assigned to liaison duties with the National Film Board personnel who are taking some movies on the base.

27 – 28 Apr 57

430 and 423 Squadrons on Zulu. Excellent weather and lots of practice scrambles.

A party of Rover Scouts visited the station in the afternoon and saw a static display of Sabre and T-33 aircraft. A representative team was sent from this unit to the Air Division Bowling Championships for men held at 1 Wing. Fifteen games were bowled by each team and 1 Wing came first with 2 Wing a very close second. An indication of the calibre of bowling is the weekend average for the 2 Wing team with 238 points per man per game.

29 Apr 57

G/C Diamond departed noon today for London, England. Beautiful weather still on. 430 Squadron taking most of the double scrambles because of poor aircraft serviceability at 4 Wing. All Squadrons above their flying requirements.

30 Apr 57

G/C Newson left today for Holland where he will spend six days sick leave. W/C Currie returned today from 10 days annual leave and took over duties of CO from W/C Banville. Low clouds and scattered rain showers. Restricted flying in progress. 423 AW Squadron on stand-by during daylight hours because of weather at altitudes.

The Ladies Bowling League played host to 3 Wing ladies this afternoon and all had a good time although the 2 Wing ladies virtually walked away with the bowling. Al light luncheon was served immediately following the bowling before the guests departed for Zweibrucken.

1 May 57

Party of 25 Reserve NCOs (French) visited the station in the morning and a party of 7 Scouts in the afternoon. Both tours were conducted by FLO – Capt. de Malglaive. CO’s parade in the morning. No flying in the morning except for the Zulu aircraft. Zulu terminated at noon. Lovely weather in the afternoon and evening. Night flying by 423 and Training Flight.

2 May 57

Weather perfect. All Squadrons on normal flying.

The Unit Ladies Bowling League had the Air Div Ladies Bowling League as guests for an afternoon bowl-off and refreshments. There was another $500.00 bingo held in the Rec. Centre with a crowd of over 800 in attendance.

3 May 57

Weather down initially. Restricted flying in until 0845 local when visibility went up to 3 miles. Mass flypast at 4 Wing cancelled because of weather. Weather good here for rest of day after 0900 hours local.

The Fall and Winter Sports banquet was held in the Airmen’s Mess. The Acting CO presented the awards to the various teams and competitors who were winners over the season. The Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Season awards went to Cpl. ED Smith and LAW M Adamson. The Intersection Bowling League held their annual award Dance in the Rec. Centre with over 350 couples in attendance for the presentation of the season awards. The Wing Maintenance "Old Crocks" team won the League for the 1956-57 season.

4 – 5 May 57

Sunday routine. No flying. The 2 Wing Sgts. Mess played host to the 3 Wing Sgts. Mess in a sports competition involving Ladies Bowling and Water Sports for the men. The feature events consisted of water polo, dinghy races and an over-the-pool tug of war. A dance was held in the home Mess that evening with suitable awards presented to the visiting 3 Wing Mess for their athletic prowess.

6 May 57

W/C Banville again resumes position of CO in the absence of G/C Newson and WC Currie. Weather variable with snow showers, 421 and 423 on restricted flying. 430 Squadron on stand down after Zulu. F/L Farnham on leave, F/O Leslie took over as OpsO.

The Intersection Fastball League commenced season games in the 1957 schedule with fifteen teams entered in the League.

7 May 57

G/C Newson returned to work today after spending some 5 or 6 days in Holland convalescing from a recent illness. In the late morning the station had a visit from 4 representatives of the Canadian NATO delegation. Weather still variable with snow showers, restricted flying for all Squadrons. Handcuff Echo (2 aircraft) landed at Lahr with Number 1’s AFI unserviceable. Returned in the afternoon OK.

Station began their intersection softball league with WC Banville officiating at the ceremony and throwing the first ball. The organizational meeting of the Unit Golf Club was held in the Rec. Centre at 1315 hours to outline plans for the 1957 season.

8 May 57

The CAS A/M Slemon and party arrived on the unit approximately 1015 hours and departed via service aircraft for London at 1100 hours. Guard of Honour and departure guard looked very nice and the entire visit seemed to go off very well. The CAS has limited time and therefore confined his visit to the CF-100 423 AW Squadron dispersal. CO’s parade cancelled. Lectures in Operations until 1100 hours. Weather still variable with snow showers, restricted flying in. 421 and 423 on Zulu at noon.

The Unit Tennis Club held its first meeting of the season in the Rec. Centre at 1315 hours to draw up the summer program of activities.

9 May 57

Weather fine today. 430 (4 aircraft) and 423 (4 aircraft) ready on 10 minutes, at 0715Z for Exercise Argus. Lots of Zulu scrambles. 423 released form Argus at 1030Z, 430 provided 4 more aircraft. Total of 16 sorties on Argus.

The Station Entertainment Committee sponsored another Live Stage Show in the Astra Theatre for the enjoyment of the unit personnel. The Troupe played to a capacity house of 400.

10 May 57

G/C Newson again was placed in the station hospital for a few days. W/C Curries takes over duties as Acting/CO. Weather good all day. All Squadrons flying. Jacket 53, 4 Wing, blew tire on runway, 25 minutes to get runway clear.

11 – 12 May 57

Zulu flying – 421 and 423 Squadron

13 May 57

421 and 423 on Zulu. Madcap 10 had compressor stall, deliberately flamed out and glided towards Rhein Main. Got successful relight and returned to base (S/L Bourque).

14 May 57

General Lee, Comdr. 4^th ATAF visited the base today. He landed at 1120 hours, was given a tour of the base, attended a luncheon in his honour and then departed for 3 (F) Wing at 1430 hours. 421 and 423 Squadrons on Zulu. At 1005Z Handcuff 57 (F/O Komar) crashed on final turn in CF-100 about 200 yards short. F/O Komar killed, his navigator F/O Sherratt injured, later taken to Landstuhl. From eyewitness reports, Handcuff 57 was pulling a very tight final turn.

15 May 57

CO’s parade held in the morning. CO quite satisfied with the efforts Arrangements being made for the funeral of the late F/O Komar. Zulu ended at noon. Weather fine, nothing in particular to report.

An exhibition baseball game was played here on No. 1 diamond between the Eagles and the visiting 4 Wing Raiders. 2 Wing won it by a close 7-6 victory.

16 May 57

Funeral for the late F/O Ray Komar held this morning in the RC Chapel. Very good turn out. Flying washed out until 1000 hours due to funeral parade. The first Flight Cadet to arrive for summer employment arrived today: F/C Shetler who will be employed on the Admin Staff.

Another $500.00 bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with over 850 people in attendance. The merchandise jackpot, now worth over $550, and the main jackpot did not go although many other prizes went to luck winners.

17 May 57

The Station had many visitors today. G/C Bright SOMS and G/C Sidey RAF Medical Logistics AIRCENT visited the station to discuss the operational aspect e.g. Aero-medicine, dispersal layout, passive defence etc. Also Col Rogers, Canadian Postal Corps and two other Army officers dropped in to see the CO and pay their respects. At 1100 hours, His Excellency DL Wilgress, Department of External Affairs and party arrived at 2 (F) Wing, met by CO and then departed for 1 Air div HQ via staff car. Weather excellent. 421 Squadron on stand down. In the afternoon, 4 CF-100s and 2 F-86s took off for static displays at various USAF bases for US Armed Forces Day. The F-86s went to Evereux AFB and Chambley AFB, while the CF-100s went to Spangdahlem AFB, Evereux AFB, Chambley AFB and Sembach AFB.

18 – 19 May 57

Weekend. Only aircraft flying were those returning from US Armed Forces Day displays. The Eagles baseball team played host to the visiting Trier Trojans baseball team for a double-header. In the first game Trier won 12-10 while in the second game, the Eagles came from behind to chalk up an 11-10 victory.

Holiday. Queen’s birthday. Sunday routine. The PMQ council sponsored a Kids Sports Afternoon at the playfield in the PMQ area with prizes for races and ice cream and cake for refreshments. In the evening a fireworks display was put on.

G/C Costello Chaplain (RC) visited the base over the weekend. Weather fairly good. 421 IDF Squadron on Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage with 4 aircraft. Four Mysteres from Cambrai came in on the exercise and stayed over lunch. 430 and 423 on normal day flying and 423 had 6 aircraft on night flying. 430 went to Spangdahlem AFB with 2 F-86s on exercise Round Robin.

22 May 57

G/C MacLean DRA (P) visited the base today. Toured the station and met with the CO in the afternoon. Weather fair with the odd shower going through. 430 and 423 went on Zulu. Some night flying done by them and the T-33s.

23 May 57

Weather good. Nothing to report out of the ordinary.

Another $500.00 bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with approximately 900 people in attendance. Neither the main jackpot nor the merchandise jackpot were won.

24 May 57

Weather only fair this morning but no restrictions on flying as only 421 was doing normal flying. 430 on Zulu. 423 doing practice flying, 423 went on Exercise "Vigilant" during the night with 5 raids on UK.

25 May 57

430 and 423 on Zulu. Weather good except for high winds. Papa 4 (F/O Hebert) returned to base with vibration accompanied by #3. Later check revealed a blade missing from turbine. Flying washed out for several hours because of winds across the runway. 423 AW Squadron flew 5 raids on Exercise "Vigilant" on Saturday night.

26 May 57

430 and 423 on Zulu. Flying washed out for a while because of high cross winds. 423 Squadron flew 5 raids against UK on Exercise "Vigilant".

The first interwing scheduled baseball game was played at 1 Wing with the Eagles easily taking the victory from the Royals by a score of 10 to 2.

28 May 57

Station was rather busy today playing host to a number of visitors. Colonel Bannard from Dominion Treasury Office spent the day at 2 (F) Wing, discussion with SAO and CO. A/V/M Kennedy and G/C Emond from AFHQ arrived at 1420 hours, had lunch with CO and then did tour of station. F/O FP Belliveau is being repatriated to Canada. He leaves Paris on 14 Jun 57. No posting as yet. Wind still blowing across the runway but not as strong as yesterday so flying not washed out. 421 on Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage", 4 Sabres landing at Cambrai.

The Mixed Bowling League had its first meeting in the Rec. Centre to draw up its summer program of activity. The meeting was held at 1900 hours.

29 May 57

A/V/M Kennedy took the salute on the CO’s parade this morning and also presented the following personnel with CDs: F/L Wilson, Sgt. Boorman, Sgt. Hillman and Cpl. Thomas. W/C Magnusson, S/L Mullen, S/L Butcher and S/L Torontow from AFHQ/DAPC arrived this morning and gave talks to the airmen, Sr. NCOs and officers. 430 Squadron finished Zulu at noon. Weather excellent. T-33 from 3 (F) Wing crashed near French border on French side about 1345 hours. One occupant killed, one bailed out safely. No night flying.

30 May 57

In the afternoon, G/C Newson, W/C Currie and W/C Dunning took part in Memorial Day Services held at the American Cemetery in St. Avold. Weather excellent. Flight leaders doing practice flights for flypast scheduled at Le Bourget, Sunday 2 Jun 57.

The $500.00 bingo was held in the Rec. Centre with merchandise jackpot going to Mrs. White. The jackpot was worth over $775.00. The $500.00 still remained and over 900 people were attendance.

31 May 57

Visitors again today. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, Honourable President of the Air Cadet League, Mr. Ross, General Manager Air Cadet League, A/M Leckie and W/C Scovill arrived on this unit at 1500 hours. Toured base and in the evening the visiting male personnel attended dining-night at the Officers’ Mess. A dance was held by 430 Squadron in the Rec. Centre as part of their spring social activities. Weather very good. Two full scale practice flypasts held today and everything worked out fine. All squadrons on normal flying.

(WFM Newson) G/C,
CO, 2 (F) Wing, RCAF.