Grostenquin, France

Historical Narrative – National Archives of Canada

Narrative Report
2 (F) Wing, RCAF
1 Jun 1958 to 30 November 1958

1 Jun 58

The mens and womens fastball teams played at 1 Wing. The boys won 6-5 and the girls dropped their game 8-5. No flying carried out today.

2 Jun 58

Flying was restricted today due to Exercise Full Play Pre-Alert. The weather was fair all day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

15:25

10

421

29:15

26

3 Jun 58

423 Squadron came to state at 0100 hours and remained on same until dawn. 421 Squadron came to state at dawn. General alert was put into effect at 0600Z. The weather was excellent but little flying was done.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

28:15

17

421

50:00

36

4 Jun 58

421 Squadron was released at dark last night. 423 Squadron had a good night of flying. Full Play continued at a better pace. 430 Squadron returned from AWU, Decimomannu, Sardinia, but will not participate in the exercise until tomorrow. 421 Squadron was released at dark, with 423 Squadron operating throughout the night.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

39:50

28

421

88:05

66

430

39:00

26

5 Jun 58

Air Chief Marshall Sir George Mills visited the station today. Playing on their home diamond, 3 Wing girls edged our lassies out 11-6. Exercise Full Play ended about dinner time but provided the chance for quite a lot of flying today for IFR Squadrons.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

10:45

6

421

91:10

71

430

57:10

48

6 Jun 58

Mr. Drideges of the Edmonton Radio and TV visited the station. Two Wing fans were treated to American type ball when Phalsburg played host on 2 Wing diamond to two teams from the American loops. The results were disastrous for Phalsburg. The CO announced that today’s routine would be as Sundays. Zulu must still be carried out, however.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:00

17

421

21:40

16

7 Jun 58

Zulu flying only today.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:35

16

421

13:50

12

8 Jun 58

Again only Zulu flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

22:10

16

421

20:40

16

9 Jun 58

430 Squadron on stand-down today to make up a few holidays they lost while on Full Play and in Sardinia.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

30:50

10

421

52:15

40

430

8:55

7

10Jun 58

Back to normal. The weather is good, as it has been for a week or so. 421 Squadron was on Zulu and Exercise Sabre Scuffle. 423 Squadron participated in Zulu and Track Toil and 430 Squadron had the pleasure of sharing in Track Toil and Sabre Scuffle. A/V/M Kerr visited the station today.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

31:55

19

421

25:25

29

430

42:15

35

11 Jun 58

Zulu ended today for 421 Squadron and 423 Squadron. 423 Squadron carried out a few Cine trips on the banner. 430 Squadron did syllabus flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:00

18

421

27:40

24

430

60:10

49

12 Jun 58

421 Squadron started off the flying day on Track Toil. 430 Squadron took over the job in the afternoon. 421 Squadron and 423 Squadron got in a few cine missions on the flag. Other flying was syllabus training.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

14:20

18

421

38:20

24

430

33:25

30

13 Jun 58

423 Squadron held a squadron dance in the Rec Centre. The only 13th Friday this year proved to be too big a risk for 421 Squadron. They stood down. 430 Squadron did Track Toil and 423 Squadron did a bit of Cine. The day passed without incident.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

11:40

9

430

53:15

45

14 Jun 58

The annual Air Force Day dance held in the Rec Centre was well attended. No flying carried out this weekend. It turned out nice for car washing, camping and picknicking.

15 Jun 58

The station fastball teams hosted 4 Wing. Playing on home ground, 2 Wing emerged victorious.

16 Jun 58

421 Squadron started early on Track toil and spent the rest of the day on Cine. 430 Squadron carried out syllabus flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:25

14

421

47:20

41

430

34:05

38

Group Captain HJ Bright, the retiring SOMS and W/C KH Running, his successor, visited the station today.

17 Jun 58

Mr. Gil Christie of the CBC and TV programmes visited the base to collect material for his programmes. All squadrons spend this day on syllabus flying. Much use was made of our new low flying area. We seem to be getting more variety in our flying these days. A good thing.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

16:45

13

421

41:35

37

430

62:00

48

18 Jun 58

G/C Burgess arrived today. A bad day. CO’s parade. The runway developed its summer fever which left it severely packed in quite a few places. Aside from a bit of conventional flying, only four Sabres took off for a total of 5:00 and 20 mins. E&E commences today. Most of our offerings came from 430 Squadron.

19 Jun 58

The runway is repaired but most of the morning was taken up sweeping the stones off. Flying got into full swing about 1030 hours local. We hear that several of our boys have been caught on the Creep and Crawl.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:55

15

421

22:45

18

430

29:00

24

20 Jun 58

The headquarters staff held a party today to say goodbye to some of our staff including W/C GH Currie our CAdO. Wing Maintenance held a section party in the Rec Centre. Our long spell of good weather has gone for the time being. Rain started about midnight and ceilings were low with visibility restricted in haze and rain over the whole air. We got the news that 11 out of 19 of our men have been caught on the E&E exercise. G/C Searle our CO is also one who will be out in the rain.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

9:25

6

21 - 22 Jun 58

The Sunday School picnic was held in the Rec Centre owing to threatening weather. The weather has gone back to sunny France’s normal weather, i.e. cold, wet and windy. A bit of Zulu flying was carried out this weekend.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

41:20

28

421

45:30

34

23 Jun 58

It remained cold and windy but not quite so wet today. The squadrons carried out numerous exercises and 421 Squadron did some night flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

31:05

20

421

50:20

41

430

48:40

46

24 Jun 58

Sponsored by 2 Wing, a four day Red Cross course to qualify instructors was attended by representatives from Air Div and 1 Wing. A nice day, cool with cumulus clouds and a bit of rain. The usual exercises were carried out.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

31:15

17

421

39:15

32

430

33:10

26

25 Jun 58

Dawned bright and clear but clouded over in the afternoon. Rain showers. 421 Squadron has a small prang - the aircraft flew through a trop top.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

28:45

18

421

30:05

26

430

22:15

18

26 Jun 58

Another showery day with low ceilings and wind. Flying was carried out as follows.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:55

16

421

36:15

35

430

45:05

36

27 Jun 58

The CO presented awards to successful candidates of the Red Cross course for swimming instructors. Windy, wet and dismal. The cross wind is gusting to 35 right across the runway. With the runway wet and slippery, this is too much for the Sabres and T-33s, so the runway is closed to them. Alternates are marginal or less. The promotion list came through and it proved to be very good. Called for some celebration in the form of parties this night. Nil flying.

28 - 29 Jun 58

Weather improved. Several aircraft on weekend trips to England and Holland. No Zulu flying.

30 Jun 58

A beautiful day. Just a bit of cirrus about. 421 Squadron is on stand down all day. 430 Squadron is on normal flying with a flypast for a section of four this afternoon. T-33 004 S/L McGee and F/L Kitchen from Air Div declared an emergency (hot seat).

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

19:20

16

430

42:45

37

1 Jul 58

Canada Day. A station Golf Tournament was held at Luxembourg and Sgt Hillman won the tourney. Nil flying.

2 Jul 58

Weather good but many clouds. 430 Squadron on Zulu at noon. The opening of playgrounds and swimming programme. The playgrounds under the supervision of F/O Saracuse and the swimming under the direction of Mrs. Dale and Cpl Powell.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:25

18

421

28:25

22

430

17:25

15

4 Jul 58

Weather good. 421 Squadron stood down and 430 Squadron on Zulu. In a very colourful ceremony, S/L Bourque of 421 Squadron handed over to S/L Allatt.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

34:55

20

421

33:15

25

430

33:30

31

5 Jul 58

M. Gaston Monnerville, President of the Council of the Republic of France arrived at 2 (F) Wing and was met by the CO and Captain DeMalglaive, the French Liaison Officer. Nil flying by 421 Squadron all weekend.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

23:45

16

430

20;25

17

6 Jul 58

2 (F) Wing placed second in the European Skeet Championship held at Nellingen in Germany. F/L Strader was the team captain.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

23:00

19

430

21:20

18

7 Jul 58

Fog in AM otherwise clear. 430 Squadron on Zulu. Normal ops and local flying for 421 Squadron. 423 Squadron on Zulu.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

27:55

16

421

47:45

39

430

37:35

30

8 Jul 58

Weather good all day. 430 Squadron and 423 Squadron on Zulu. One live scramble for 430 Squadron, ADIS penetration a C-130. Night flying 430 Squadron - 8 and 421 Squadron - 6.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

28:10

17

421

43:00

36

430

32:20

29

9 Jul 58

One first Station Track and Field Meet was held today. It was a very successful afternoon with 423 Squadron scoring first place. The CO presented the trophies to the winners. Excellent weather but a bit hazy. 430 Squadron ended Zulu at 1200Z. Normal flying which included testing of a new rag, (target).

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

22:20

16

421

28:40

32

430

39:15

33

10 Jul 58

A recreation safety meeting was held today. Weather excellent. Exercise Argus in effect with 423 Squadron holding two aircraft and crews on 10 minutes all morning and half the afternoon. Nothing untoward happened except most people were excessively warm. Restricted flying due to low visibility in haze.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

23:15

14

421

28:20

34

430

48:50

40

11 Jul 58

Weather good. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

13:45

11

421

40:20

38

430

49:05

43

12 Jul 58

The Men’s station fastball team visited Langar and came home victorious. Nil flying over the weekend.

13 Jul 58

Sarre Union held a Folklore and Flower Festival and our band was invited to attend. The weather was good and the folklore and flower festival was well attended by 2 (F) Wing personnel. A float had been constructed by the Sarre Unions residents and some of our children dressed as cowboys, Indians, etc., on the “Canadian” float were participants.

14 Jul 58

Weather excellent. 430 stood down with normal flying by the other squadrons. Runway barrier finished.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

18:15

13

421

33:00

32

15 Jul 58

Weather good. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

14:05

11

421

43:45

36

430

47:50

41

16 Jul 58

Weather good. 421 Squadron on Zulu as is 423 Squadron.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:15

10

421

25:05

20

430

40:45

32

17 Jul 58

Weather good. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

22:00

15

421

48:05

39

430

46:15

37

18 Jul 58

Weather good. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

21:00

15

421

29:40

25

430

49:10

39

18 - 20 Jul 58

Zulu weekend, 421 Squadron and 423 Squadron.

19 Jul 58

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

14:10

12

421

29:15

21

20 Jul 58

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

12:30

8

421

25:15

20

The station baseball teams won over 4 Wing in a game played here today. The station fastball teams, men and women, hosted Air Div. Playing on home ground, 2 Wing emerged victorious.

21 Jul 58

Weather good, normal flying. 423 preparing to move to Sardinia.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

2:40

2

421

27:55

23

430

52:30

41

22 Jul 58

Weather good, normal flying. 423 Squadron still preparing to move.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

17:10

18

430

46:40

42

3 Jul 58

Weather good. 423 Squadron finally prepared and moved to Sardinia for Weaponfire. A/V/M Wray arrived today at 2 (F) Wing and was met by A/V/M Godwin and G/C Searle.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

25:50

16

421

14:30

14

430

28:35

26

24 Jul 58

Exercise Synthex/Guest. Pilots report no trade. The Officers’ Mess had a cocktail party this evening in honour of A/V/M and Mrs. Godwin, the retiring AOC. The A/V/M was presented with a 2 (F) Wing mug and Mrs. Godwin with a bouquet of flowers.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:10

28

421

71:50

56

430

79:45

61

25 Jul 58

Weather good, normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

27:20

28

421

33:05

31

430

45:40

41

26 - 27 Jul 58

The baseball team played host to Fontainbleau and the Eagles defeated them by a score of 4 - 3. A very interesting game to watch. No flying all weekend with the exception of 423 Squadron who flew 27.55 and 28 sorties Saturday at Sardinia.

28 Jul 58

Weather good. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

27:35

28

421

39:15

32

430

37:45

33

29 Jul 58

Weather good and normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

32:10

28

421

52:30

45

430

37:35

30

30 Jul 58

Weather good. 430 Squadron on Zulu in new quarters on ORP. A Track and Field meeting was held today in the Rec Centre.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

15:05

16

421

36:30

31

430

48:10

40

31 Jul 58

The first half of the summers’ swimming programme wound up with a weiner roast held at the Track and Field grounds. The awards were presented by S/L Patenaude. 95 out of 100 swimmers passed into their next level. A few of the children were able to qualify for two awards. Weather good. Zulu and 421 Squadron on normal work.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

19:30

20

421

38:20

32

430

43:00

33

1 Aug 58

10 people took advantage of a tour to Switzerland over the holiday weekend. Weather good. 430 Squadron on Zulu, 421 Squadron off.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

29:35

27

430

13:25

12

2 Aug 58

Weather good. 430 Squadron on Zulu.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

430

29:35

26

3 Aug 58

Weather good. 430 Squadron on Zulu.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

23:15

20

430

13:30

11

4 Aug 58

Weather good. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

21:10

22

430

34:10

28

5 Aug 58

Weather good. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

20:50

22

421

31:05

29

430

28:10

23

6 Aug 58

Weather cloudy and wet. Normal flying. Station off Zulu at 1200Z.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:25

25

421

36:05

34

430

23:00

25

7 Aug 58

The High School had a dance tonight. Weather cloudy with showers. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

31:55

30

421

34:00

28

430

47:55

37

8 Aug 58

Weather cloudy and wet. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

39:10

34

9 - 10 Aug 58

Aerodrome closed. Sports car racing. Womens and men fastball teams played at 4 Wing and came home victorious. The Rev Dr. and Mrs WJ Gallagher, General Secretary Canadian Counsel of Churches visited the base.

11 Aug 58

Weather cloudy with rain showers. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

25:25

24

421

32:45

33

430

35:00

40

12 Aug 58

Cloudy with rain showers. Major Hansen, USAFE lectured on Reconnaissance to all IDF pilots this morning. Normal flying after 1000 hours.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

28:10

24

430

26:40

27

13 Aug 58

Low cloud with showers. Restricted flying to 0930 hours. 423 Squadron returned from Sardinia this morning.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:50

14

421

46:25

36

430

38:10

40

14 Aug 58

Low ceilings in light rain. Restricted flying until 1400 hours. One T-33 had a collapsed nose wheel and skidded into the runway barrier at the end of 15.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

7:45

6

15 Aug 58

Weather consists of low ceilings. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

28:40

19

421

33:05

30

430

36:00

35

16 Aug 58

Weather good. Normal Zulu flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:00

16

421

30:55

28

17 Aug 58

Bishop Norris, Bishop of Brandon and Bishop Ordinary to the Forces held a confirmation service today. Weather scattered cloud and warm. Zulu flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:50

16

421

31:25

29

18 Aug 58

Bishop Norris and his party were taken on a tour of the base today and a luncheon was held in the Officers’ Mess. Scattered cloud, warm. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

27:40

18

421

25:30

22

430

48:45

47

19 Aug 58

Scattered cloud and rain. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

20:55

12

421

31:20

27

430

37:00

37

20 Aug 58

Brigadier Wansborough the retiring Director General of Dental Services visited the base and inspected 2 (F)Wing dental facilities. Cloudy with rain. Normal flying after 1000 hours. CO’s parade being held until that time.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

28:05

18

421

22:40

19

430

25:25

23

21 Aug 58

Overcast sky, rain showers. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

16:05

11

421

34:35

38

430

45:25

39

22 Aug 58

Cloudy with rain showers. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

15:10

12

421

20:00

23

430

19:50

20

23 - 24 Aug 58

Squadrons on standdown.

25 Aug 58

Weather cloudy with low ceilings. Semi-restricted flying in order until 1030 hours local. Two CF100s collided overhead while on the break at 1005Z hours and one of these crashed into the hospital. One crew ejected but only the Obs survived. Three crew were killed including the Pharmacist, F/L Bice and Mrs. Stonham, a patient in the hospital. F/L Chitham and Dr. Jeffreys were both critically injured. Flying cancelled except emergency flights and Air Evacuations.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

5:30

4

421

15:00

16

430

17:35

16

26 Aug 58

Weather cloudy. No flying until 1000 hours because of lack of emergency medical facilities. Normal flying after 1000 hours.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

12:40

8

421

31:35

37

430

26:05

21

27 Aug 58

Weather good. Normal flying. Zulu starts today.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

16:45

10

421

55:30

53

430

44:15

33

28 Aug 58

W/C LJ McLeod, our new CAdO was TOS today. Weather good. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

7:15

5

421

53:00

49

430

41:00

34

29 Aug 58

The final game of the inter-section fastball league was played and won by 2, 3, 4 hangars over ME section. 2, 3, 4 hangars became inter-section champions. Weather good. Flying cancelled until after the funeral of the accident victims. 423 Squadron off all day except for night flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

8:35

6

421

26:05

22

430

30:00

23

30 Aug 58

Weather clear. Normal Zulu flying. Second game of baseball play-offs played at 3 Wing - for 2 Wing 7 to 1.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:45

17

430

18:00

16

31 Aug 58

Third game of baseball play-offs played at 2 Wing and lost this game 8 - 7. Weather clear. Normal Zulu flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:45

17

430

18:00

16

1 Sep 58

Baseball away at 3 Wing and 2 Wing won their 3rd game and came home the Air Division Champions. Weather clear. 423 Squadron stood down. Sabre Squadrons on normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

430

32:45

26

2 Sep 58

Weather clear. 423 Squadron off this morning for the funeral of F/O Cooling. Flying cancelled until after 0930 hours because of the funeral. Normal flying the rest of the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

10:10

6

421

30:40

25

430

8:25

9

3 Sep 58

Second game of semi-finals Girls Fastball. Playing on their home diamond, 3 wing girls edges our lassies out 6 - 5 with one inning overtime. Weather clear. 423 Squadron deployed to 4 (F) Wing and 421 and 430 Squadrons deployed to Mirecourt today because of extensive runway and taxi strip repairs to 2 (F) Wing.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

22:05

20

421

16:10

14

430

17:45

20

4 Sep 58

Weather clear. Work progressing on runway. Flying will be carried out off the taxi strip by 109 Comm Flight and Wing Instrument Flight and by any aircraft returning from deployment for maintenance.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

21:30

12

421

34:10

29

430

36:35

33

5 Sep 58

We held the second station track meet today which was a very poor showing because the squadrons were all away on deployment. Weather clear. Normal flying by 109 Comm Flt and Wing Inst. Flight.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

18:55

14

421

31:35

28

6 - 7 Sep 58

Nil flying this weekend. Inter-section men’s fastball tournament was held at 4 Wing on the 6th. 3 Wing emerged victorious. The last game of the Girls semi-finals played at 2 Wing vs 3 Wing. The 2 Wingers emerged victorious with a score of 3 - 2.

8 Sep 58

2 Wing - Clear again. Comm Flt and Wing Inst Flt on normal flying.

Mirecourt - 430 Squadron still away. 421 Squadron flying. W/C Banville, 6 TACC on camp for the day. Lighting for dispersals being installed. APU requested for ammo dump lighting.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:30

13

421

67:50

64

9 Sep 58

2 Wing - Weather consists of scattered but the sun is shining. 109 Comm Flt and Wing Inst Flt are continuing normal flying.

Mirecourt - Both Squadrons flying. Visit by G/C Searle and W/C Banville. Beacon off air about 1600 hours.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

18:50

12

421

38:55

40

430

55:55

41

10 Sep 58

2 Wing - Weather scattered cloud. 109 and T-33 Flts on normal flying.

Mirecourt - Weather still nice and fine. Overcast in morning, but cleared by noon. Zulu began at noon.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:25

16

421

36:20

42

430

61:05

65

11 Sep 58

2 Wing - Sky clear but considerable ground fog. 109 and T-33 Flts on normal flying.

Mirecourt - Weather still good. Some fog in morning. Cleared about 10:00. Both Squadrons flying. 430 Squadron on Zulu.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:45

18

421

40:10

41

430

25:15

22

12 Sep 58

Air Division Track and Field meet was held. 3 Wing took the trophy home. High aggregate for men - LAC Berry 1 Wing. High aggregate for women - LAW Wilson 4 Wing.

2 Wing - Sky clear. 109 and T-33 Flts on normal flying.

Mirecourt - 421 Squadron aircraft nose-wheel up landing well manipulated, no casualties. Dakota flew F/L Orser, pilot of above Sabre, to 3 Wing for x-ray.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:45

16

421

45:30

52

430

28:10

29

13 Sep 58

2 Wing - 2 Wing closed for runway repairs.

Mirecourt - 430 Squadron on Zulu

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:20

16

421

25:50

32

430

17:30

15

Little league baseball played their last game of the semi-finals vs Air Div and won by a score of 5 to 2.

14 Sep 58

2 Wing girls fastball team played their last game at 1 Wing and defeated them 12 to 0, the first shut-out of the season. The game was pitched by LAW Connor, the 2 Wing girls came out with the championship. On this date also the 2 Wing Little League defeated Toul 1 - 0, in the first game of the finals.

2 Wing - 2 Wing closed for runway repairs.

Mirecourt - 430 Squadron on Zulu

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

20:50

14

430

19:40

18

15 Sep 58

2 Wing - Runway still closed until noon when the CO had a look and declared it open. Weather very good. Taxi strip is unserviceable.

Mirecourt - Normal flying and 430 Squadron on Zulu.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

27:45

17

421

28:10

33

430

31:30

25

16 Sep 58

2 Wing Little League played their second and last game at Toul and came home with the championship also. The score was 7 to 3.

2 Wing - Weather overcast skies with rain showers. Normal flying by 109 and T-33 Flts.

Mirecourt - Normal flying, weather OK.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:10

16

421

11:40

9

430

25:20

22

17 Sep 58

2 Wing - Weather, fog until 1030 hours. Vis bad throughout the day. Normal flying by 109 and T-33 Flts.

Mirecourt - Fogged in in morning. Slow clearing then rain. No flying weather except late afternoon.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

9:15

7

421

1:05

2

18 Sep 58

2 Wing - Weather, fog and low visibilities. Very little flying during the day.

Mirecourt - Fog and rain in morning. No flying before noon. Call from 2 Wing, Ammo to go Monday. CE at 2 Wing apparently plan to start moving and pulling out on Monday.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

13:45

10

421

5:20

6

430

20:20

18

19 Sep 58

2 Wing - Heavy fog during the morning, thinning out during the day. Normal flying during the afternoon.

Mirecourt - Socked in with fog.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

10:00

6

430

7:40

8

20 - 21 Sep 58

Air Div Skeet was held at 1 (F) Wing. 2 Wing won in A & B league. High gun for the day was Cpl Attrill 2 Wing and A league. High gun for B league was LAC Languard. Lots of rain over the weekend. Low ceilings and poor visibilities. No flying except for 109 Comm Flt. The Battle of Britain parade was cancelled due to the bad weather. Protestant service was held in the Little Theatre and RC service in their chapel.

Mirecourt - Very few left on the camp this weekend. Nil flying by all squadrons.

22 Sep 58

2 Wing - Clear and sunny during the day. Scattered cloud with rain showers during the afternoon. Normal flying by 109 and T-33 Flts.

Mirecourt - Weather clear in morning. Flying by both Squadrons. Camp very muddy following wet weekend. Ammo away to 2 Wing. Mayor of Mirecourt due to visit the camp today.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

430

42:15

35

23 Sep 58

Weather overcast with rain showers most of the day. 430 Squadron arrived back from Mirecourt this morning. 423 Squadron arrived back from 4 (F) Wing this afternoon. 421 Squadron remaining in Mirecourt until 24 Sep 58 and going directly to Sardinia from there. Normal flying carried out during the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

22:20

18

430

19:25

18

24 Sep 58

Weather: Rain showers with low visibilities throughout the day. GCA on Maintenance during the morning. Station commenced Zulu at 1200 hours today. Normal flying, plus Zulu flying. 421 Squadron left Mirecourt for Sardinia this morning.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:20

12

421

33:00

22

25 Sep 58

Weather: Broken cloud with slight rain showers. Zulu flying. One live scramble which was changed to practice intercept after 10 minutes. Normal flying throughout the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

29:30

18

421

61:10

73

430

39:15

32

26 Sep 58

The CO and W/C Dunning went to 3 Wing today to the Air Division Rodeo. Weather: Broken cloud condition. Nil rain. Normal flying during the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

31:15

19

421

56:00

65

430

27:55

24

27 Sep 58

Weather clear and warm. Normal Zulu flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

27:40

16

421

68:20

81

430

23:20

21

28 Sep 58

Weather clear and warm. Normal Zulu flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

25:20

16

430

17:25

15

29 Sep 58

Weather: Thin layer cirus, warm. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

35:05

19

421

60:10

62

430

32:00

29

30 Sep 58

Weather: Overcast in rain with low visibilities. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

23:55

15

421

54:05

60

430

19:05

14

1 Oct 58

Station Badminton Meeting held today. Weather: low ceilings, light rain. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:45

10

421

00:15

1

430

16:00

14

2 Oct 58

A Sports Committee Meeting and an Inter-Section Hockey meeting was held today. Weather: Raining, low ceilings throughout the day. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

22:25

15

421

60:50

93

430

23:00

31

3 Oct 58

Weather good. Scattered cloud only. 430 Squadron on half strength, 423 Squadron stood down during the afternoon. Normal flying during the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

11:20

8

421

44:00

50

430

37:15

30

4 - 5 Oct 58

109 Comm Flight only unit flying. Weather good during the whole weekend.

6 Oct 58

Weather cloudy with an odd rain shower. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

25:05

15

421

6:05

6

430

26:50

26

7 Oct 58

Weather foggy throughout the morning. Normal flying after 1100 local.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

16:25

12

430

44:35

37

8 Oct 58

A bowling meeting was held today. Weather: ground fog until 1000 hours. Normal flying the rest of the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

22:35

13

421

37:35

30

430

38:40

36

9 Oct 58

The first bingo of the fall and winter season was held with a reasonably large crowd in attendance. Slight ground fog. Normal flying throughout the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

18:00

11

430

37:40

27

10 Oct 58

A “World Fair” tour (Hotel Plan) left for Brussels. Slight ground fog. Normal flying throughout the day. 421 Squadron takes over Zulu from 430 Squadron at 1200 hours. 423 Squadron had a CF-100 run down the barrier and off the end of runway 15. Considered an “A” category crash. Crew uninjured.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:00

16

430

24:45

22

11 Oct 58

Weather: Ground fog. Normal Zulu flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

16:15

11

12 Oct 58

Foggy. Normal Zulu flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:10

16

421

4:45

4

13 Oct 58

Fog until 1000 hours. Normal flying during the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

24:55

17

421

26:50

20

14 Oct 58

Cloudy and wet. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:45

10

421

10:50

8

15 Oct 58

The Trade exams were written in the Rec Centre. Cloudy with rain showers Normal flying Zulu finished at noon.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

28:30

15

421

23:35

21

430

29:15

30

16 Oct 58

Another bingo was held tonight. Cloudy, early morning fog. Exercise "Sunbeam" commenced 0100Z today with 423 Squadron doing eight sorties at that time. Both 421 Squadron and 430 Squadron participated during the day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:10

8

421

21:20

17

17 Oct 58

Cloudy and wet. Exercise “Sunbeam” still on with all squadrons participating.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:05

14

421

41:20

28

430

37:35

25

18 Oct 58

A big Cub-O-Ree was held at 2 (F) Wing on this day with all the Wings participating. Weather broken cloud condition. Early morning fog. Exercise "Sunbeam" still on. 423 Squadron flew eight sorties at 0100Z hours and eight again at 2300 hours to finish off the exercise.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:45

16

421

6:15

5

430

24:30

16

19 Oct 58

Weather - cloudy with rain showers. 423 Squadron on stand down until Wednesday morning. Both F-86 Squadrons on stand-down today.

20 Oct 58

Cloudy and wet this morning. F-86 Squadrons on normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

59:35

41

430

33:20

31

21 Oct 58

Overcast and raining this morning. 430 Squadron being deployed to Florenns in exchange with a Belgian F-84F Squadron. this exchange expected to last approx 10 days.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

23:10

40

22 Oct 58

The Hon. George Drew, Canadian High Commissioner in London accompanied by Major General Kitching, Chairman, CJS London with G/C Burgess arrived on the station today. They were given an extensive tour by the CO. Overcast and wet. Limited flying throughout the day. No night flying because of no alternates.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

430

9:40

12

23 Oct 58

A Live show was held in the Station Theatre. Weather good. Scattered clouds condition. Normal flying by all units. Nil night flying, no alternates.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:55

11

421

45:10

37

430

5:25

5

24 Oct 58

All Wings and Air Div were represented in an invitational basketball tournament held here in both mens and ladies divisions. 3 (F) Wing won the tournament in both divisions. Weather overcast. Normal flying. No night flying, nil alternates.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

27:50

17

430

13:00

12

25 Oct 58

Weather fair. Normal flying. No night flying, nil alternates.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

27:50

17

430

13:00

12

26 Oct 58

Weather fair. Normal flying. No night flying, nil alternates.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

25:35

15

27 Oct 58

Weather clear at last. Normal flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

34:40

24

421

47:20

38

430

38:55

37

28 Oct 58

Fog until noon. Formation practice fly past this afternoon, otherwise normal flying. The station is very busy preparing for the visit of the Prime Minister of Canada.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:35

16

421

48:00

37

430

37:05

38

29 Oct 58

Fog and low ceilings, nil flying until after 1200 hours. No night flying because of fog.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

13:05

10

421

1:45

2

430

5:35

8

30 Oct 58

The Station entertainment Committee sponsored another Bingo. Fog and low ceilings throughout the day. Some flying in the afternoon. No night flying - fog.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

8:05

6

421

10:55

12

430

13:10

17

31 Oct 58

The Station Hockey team played their first game vs 2nd Canadian Guards and the Guards were defeated by a score of 9 to 1. Weather: Scattered to broken cloud. 423 Squadron stood down until 3 Nov. Normal flying by F-86 Squadrons.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

36:25

28

430

37:05

30

1 - 2 Nov 58

The Inter-Wing Basketball league got under way, the men and womens teams played at Air Div. The station Hockey Team played their second exhibition game vs 2nd Canadian Guards and 2 Wing won by a score of 8 to 7. Normal non-Zulu weekend. Only one T-33 flying.

3 Nov 58

Weather low ceilings and visibility. No flying, CGA off most of the morning, unserviceable. Restricted flying during the afternoon.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

12:15

10

430

8:50

8

4 Nov 58

Weather low cloud poor visibility. Restricted flying during the morning. Limited flying during the afternoon.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

18:30

15

421

29:05

25

430

31:55

29

5 Nov 58

Limited flying this morning. 60 jet aircraft from the other wings arrived 2 Wing starting at 1300 hours until 1500 hours. The aircrews were briefed by the COpsO and were flown back to their home bases by 109 Comm Flight.

6 Nov 58

Weather scattered condition. Prime Minister John Diefenbaker arrived at 2 (F) Wing at 1115 hours and was greeted by a flypast of 20 jet aircraft, 8 CF-100s and 12 F-86s from 2 Wing. 109 Comm Flight ferried in the aircrew from other wings to fly out their aircraft. They took off immediately after the Prime Minister finished his tour of the station. Take-offs were completed in 11 minutes.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

23:45

17

421

17:20

17

430

4:00

4

A/C Wray and G/C Searle greeted the Prime Minister and Mrs. Diefenbaker on their arrival and introduced them to the CO’s and their wives of all the Wings and 30 AMB Langar. The composite band was under the direction of Sgt Tipple and the Guard of Honour under F/L Osler. The school children together with many of our dependents and Service personnel were on hand to greet the Prime Minister. The camera fans had a real field day today. The PM was taken on an extensive tour of the station and in the afternoon had tea in the Sgts Mess to which the SWOs and their wives from the other Wings had been invited. In the evening a formal dinner was held in the Officers’ Mess. Attached is the Itinerary for the PM’s visit and also a list of guests attending the formal dinner. The Prime Minister expressed his pleasure at the termination of his visit and he said he was particularly impressed with the school children. It was felt that the day was a complete success.

7 Nov 58

Weather: Heavy fog this morning delayed the take off of the C-5 for approximately two hours. After fog lifted, limited flying was the order of the rest of the day. The CO and Mrs Searle left for Paris this afternoon. The Spring and Summer sports award dance was held in the Rec Centre. W/C Dunning presented awards to those who had won them. LAC Gingras was presented with the plaque for the Sportsman of the season, while LAW V Connor was presented with the Ladies counterpart.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

11:35

74

421

11:00

8

430

21:05

18

8 - 9 Nov 58

Normal Zulu weekend. Flying limited because of bad weather. Nil flying on Saturday. The men and womens basketball team played at 3 Wing on 9 Nov and were defeated by 3 Wing.

9 Nov 58

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:20

16

421

21:45

16

10 Nov 58

Low ceilings and poor visibility, very limited flying during the day. No night flying because of fog. The school children were paraded to the Astra Theatre for a Remembrance Day programme which included an address by the CO.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

18:10

12

421

17:15

14

11 Nov 58

A Remembrance Day parade and services were held today. Very limited flying and no night flying because of fog.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

18:10

12

421

17:15

14

12 Nov 58

Fog all morning lifting slightly during the afternoon closing in again during late afternoon. Very little flying.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

9:00

6

421

10:50

8

430

15:50

14

13 Nov 58

A Card Party was held at the Rec Centre by the Women’s Club of 2 Wing. Weather same as yesterday. Flying very limited. 421 Squadron stood down until Tuesday. Nil flying - all squadrons.

14 Nov 58

F/O R Arsenault died early this morning following an automobile accident. Fog all day with light rain showers. Nil flying.

15 - 16 Nov 58

Station off Zulu. Stood down. Nil flying.

17 - 23 Nov 58

The weather consisted mostly of very low ceilings and poor visibility in fog and haze. Flying was carried out when possible because of the weather here and when we had alternate limits. A few times 2 Wing had acceptable weather but had no alternate.

17 Nov 58

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

23:50

14

430

22:30

21

A funeral for F/O Arsenault was held today. The CO attended. Mr & Mrs Arsenault and a brother from 3 Wing were present.

18 Nov 58

A/C Ball who was flying in the area had lunch with the CO today.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

26:05

19

421

46:05

36

430

47:10

40

19 Nov 58

About 60 ex members of the Africa Corps toured the station today. Nil flying all squadrons.

20 Nov 58

A live show sponsored by the Entertainment Committee was featured in the Astra Theatre.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

20:40

12

421

19:00

19

430

35:20

34

21 Nov 58

430 Squadron held a dance in the Rec Centre.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

31:45

18

421

44:25

33

430

41:10

35

22 Nov 58

The men’s basketball team won and the ladies lost in a league game played at 2 Wing vs 4 Wing.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

22:55

14

421

49:00

40

430

9:00

12

23 Nov 58

Senator CG Powers visited the station today. The mens and womens basketball team recorded a win each over 4 Wing in games played here.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

28:30

19

421

38:00

29

24 Nov 58

Low cloud, poor visibility in fog, haze and mist. Aerodrome condition Red during the morning. No flying during the day.

25 Nov 58

Same as usual. Low cloud, poor visibility in fog, haze and mist. Aerodrome conditions changed from Red to Amber and back to Red quite often.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

9:00

6

26 Nov 58

Weather very poor, with low cloud and low visibility. No flying.

27 Nov 58

Another Bingo was held this date. Weather good enough for restricted flying. 421 Squadron stood down until Saturday, hoping the weather improves by then.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

17:25

12

430

30:05

27

28 Nov 58

Weather good enough for restricted flying only. Later in the day weather started coming down and flying cancelled.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

423

18:15

11

430

30:05

27

29 Nov 58

Weather very poor. Weather checks only flying all day. 421 Squadron and 430 Squadron working today.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

2:30

2

30 Nov 58

Mens basketball team played against Canadian Army team from Soest. Each team won a game apiece. Weather still horrible. One flight, weather check, carried out. Flying cancelled for day.

Squadron

Flying times

Sorties

421

00:45

1

(AB Searle) G/C
CO 2 (F) Wing