Page 1, Page 2, Page 3, Page 4, Page 5

National Archives catalogue number WO 169/8666.

Abbreviations

124293 2 i/c AA A/C Adv Amb Amn AP A/Tk Bde Bn Br BRASCO CCS Comb Comd Comn Coy CRE DAA&QMG Def Div Excl Fd FDS FOO Gp HE Incl Inf Intercomn LCT LMG LZ Mag M/C MDS MG MO OC Offr OR Pdr Ph Pl Posn Pr Pt RAMC RAP RASC Rd Rds RE Ref Regt Ret RMO Rpg RSF RV Ry SB Sec Sig S/L Sqn Sta TC TO u/s

Map Reference Second-in-Command Anti-Aircraft Aircraft Advance Ambulance Ammunition Armour Piercing Anti-Tank Brigade Battalion Bridge Brigade Royal Army Service Corps Officer Casualty Clearing Station Combination Command Communication Company Commander Royal Engineers Deputy Assistant Adjuanta and Quartermaster General Defence Division / Divisional Excluding Field Field Dressing Station Forward Observation Officer Group High Explosive Including Infantry Intercommunication Landing Craft Tank Light Machine Gun Landing Zone Magnetic Motorcycle Main Dressing Station Machine Gun Medical Officer Officer Commanding Officer Other Ranks Pounder Photographic Platoon Position Pounder Point Royal Army Medical Corps Regimental Aid Post Royal Army Service Corps Road Rounds Royal Engineers Reference Regiment Returned Regimental Medical Officer Rounds per gun Royal Scots Fusiliers Rendezvous Railway Stretcher Bearer Section Signal Searchlight Squadron Station Troop Carrier Take-off Unserviceable

REPORT ON THE OPERATIONS carried out by 1st. AIRBORNE DIVISION during the INVASION OF SICILY (OPERATION 'HUSKY')

PART 2 - 1st. Air Landing Brigade Operation.

SECTION 'A' - AIR OPERATIONS

1.  General

2.  Availability of Aircraft

3.  Loading of Gliders

4.  Move to Airfields

5.  Marshalling of Gliders

6.  Alteration of height of release

7.  Route

8.  Take-off

9.  Summary of Take-off

10.  Return of Tug Aircraft

11.  Landing of Gliders

12.  General remarks from Tug Pilots' reports

13.  General remarks regarding equipment

Annexure 1.  Lay-out of Aircraft for Take-off

                2.  Summary of Glider landings

                3.  Summary of Glider reports

                4.  Glider Pilot Crews

                5.  Personnel and Equipment

                6.  Summary of Glider Loads

Sketch Map 1.  Route taken on operation

                    2.  Release

                    3.  Positions of Gliders on landing.

Section A.  Air Operations.

1. GENERAL

This operation was planned to land 1st Air Landing Bde Gp consisting of Bde H.Q., 1 BORDER, 2 S. STAFFORDS, with under command detachments of 91 Fd Coy R.E., 181 Fd Amb, 89 Fd Security Sec, 4 Army Film and Photographic Unit on three landing areas S.W. and S. of SYRACUSE on night 9/10 July to carry out tasks of capturing road bridge and town of SYRACUSE.  Full details are continued in Section B of this Part.

2. AVAILABILITY OF A/C.

The following number of A/C and gliders were available for this operation:-

                53 A/C 60 Troop Carrier Group towing WACO Gliders.

                54 A/C 62 Troop Carrier Group towing WACO Gliders.

                1 A/C from Troop Carrier Command towing WACO Glider.

                27 A/C from 296 Sqn, 38 Wing towing WACO Gliders.

                1 A/C from 296 Sqn, 38 Wing towing HORSA Glider.

                7 A/C from 297 Sqn, 38 Wing towing HORSA Gliders.

        A Total of 135 WACO Gliders.  8 HORSA Gliders.  In addition a further four WACO loads were available in the event of more tug A/C becoming available before take off.  The split up of these A/C over the six airfields is shown in Annexure 1.

3. LOADING OF GLIDERS.

All gliders in which it was intended to carry equipment were available for loading on 8 July in the various Sqn dispersal areas.  Glider Pilots were present at the loading of their gliders and checked the distribution of loads.  Special care had to be taken in the allocation of WACO Gliders owing to the fact that only a limited number were fitted were lashing rings; others only had a hole in the floor for attaching rope.  Ordinary lashing sets were used in cases of heavy equipment, rope was used for lashing the smaller items.  The HORSA Gliders were carrying full load of personnel (32 men) and no heavy equipment.

4. MOVE TO AIRFIELDS.

One three ton lorry was provided from Div R.A.S.C. for each glider load; each lorry bore the serial number or letter of the glider.  These were loaded in unit lines and moved off to airfields from 1520 hrs onwards.  Troops arrived at airfields approx one hour before take-off and were routed in their lorries to their respective gliders already marshalled on the runway.

5. MARSHALLING OF GLIDER.

This was carried out on each airfield by a detachment of 1 Airborne Reconnaissance Squadron, 28 men and 6 cars 5-cwt.  Marshalling was completed by 1600 hrs.

6. ALTERATION TO HEIGHT OF RELEASE.

At approx 1730 hrs, A.3, 51 T.C. Wing stated that it would be necessary to alter the height of release owing to 30-35 m.p.h. N.W. wind blowing in the area of release.  O.C. Glider Pilot Regt was informed and he requested the following alterations to be made; this was passed out to pilots before take-off.

        L.Z. I - Increase to 1800 ft  )

        L.Z. II - Increase to 1400 ft ) But to cross coast at altitude given at briefing.

        L.Z. III - Increase to 4,000 ft.

7. ROUTE FOR A/C.

The route ordered for A/C was from R.V. over KURIATE Islands, to DELIMARA PT (MALTA) and thence 37º Mag for 71 minutes thence 3º Mag for 18 minutes taking gliders to within 3000 yds of shore thence tug A/C to fly towards CAPE MURRO DI PORCO keeping 3000 yds off shore and release gliders from approx 2½ miles short of CAPE MURRO DI PORCO, when running parallel to the Landing Zones.  Height of release as stated in para 6 above.

8. TAKE-OFF.

        (a) Airfield A.  Troops emplaned at 1840 hrs and first A/C was airborne at 1853 hrs.  29 A/C were off the airfield by 1905 hrs.  One glider, No.27, was forced to release on take-off but tug landed and took off again with same glider load at 1935 hrs.

        (b) Airfield B.  Troops emplaned at 1825 hrs and first A/C was airborne at 1848 hrs.  29 C.47 and 1 Albemarle were off airfield by 1915 hrs.  One glider, No.41, cast off 9 miles S.E. of A airfield.  Tug A/C landed beside glider and took off the personnel and landed back on the airfield.  Personnel loaded in another glider with another car 5 cwt and were airborne again at 2059 hrs.  One other glider, No.42, cast off approx 60 miles distant from airfield owing to car 5-cwt coming loose, and was unable to take off again.

        (c) Airfield C.  Troops emplaned by 1855 hrs.  First A/C was airborne at 1905 hrs.  26 A/C were airborne by 1922 hrs.  One glider, No.69, released on take-off; the glider load was recovered and placed in a new glider and taken off again with a different tug at 1938 hrs.  One additional A/C became available and glider No.101A was taken off.

        (d) Airfield D.  Troops emplaned by 1910 hrs.  First A/C was airborne at 1920 hrs.  24 A/C were off airfield by 1955 hrs.  Glider No.90 cast off on take-off.  Tug A/C landed and took same glider off again at 2008 hrs.

        (e) Airfield E.  Troops emplaned by 1935 hrs for Halifax tugs, 1910 for Albemarle.  First A/C was airborne at 1955 hrs (Halifax), 1925 hrs (Albemarle).  All 7 Halifaxes and 1 Albemarle were off airfield by 2007 hrs.  No unusual incidents.  The Albemarle towing HORSA without undercarriage at 6,900 lbs.

        (f) Airfield F.  Troops emplaned by 1926 hrs.  First A/C was airborne at 1935 hrs.  All 26 A/C were off airfield by 2012 hrs.  Glider No.113 cast off on take-off; glider damaged port wheel on landing.  Glider No.127, wheel collapsed on runway glider damaged but personnel uninjured.  Glider No.126A developed aileron flutter and forced to cast off near airfield.  Glider damaged but personnel uninjured.  Glider No.125 returned to airfield as tug A/C developed engine trouble on approaching coast.  Glider No.120, rope broke and glider landed 1½ miles from BOURDJINE.  Glider No.121 developed aileron trouble, cast off at M'SAKEN.  None of these were allowed to take off again on orders from C.G., 51 T.C Wing.

9. SUMMARY OF TAKE-OFF.

        Gliders available at Take-off.  136 WACOs, 8 HORSAs.

        No failed to leave mainland.  7 WACOs.

        No. proceeded over to Sicily.  129 WACOs, 8 HORSAs.

10. RETURN OF TUG A/C.

        (a) Airfield A.  The first tug A/C returned at 0043 hrs and the last at 0300 hrs.  At this time 4 A/C, Nos. 7, 14, 17 & 21 were reported missing but these arrived back later.  No.12 reported that the glider was cast off 18 miles North of SYRACUSE.  No.23 reported that glider cast off at 2200 hrs and landed in sea at 15° 30' E 38° 50' N, pilot circled and dropped dinghies but could see nothing, notified Air Sea Rescue.

        (b) Airfield B.  The first tug A/C returned at 0015 hrs and the last A/C at 0345 hrs.  The following tugs were missing but arrived in later from SFAX and MALTA.  Nos.33, 36, 40, 41, 44, 52 and X.  Pilots reported that they had released gliders in approx the correct posn, with the following exceptions:- No.41.  Tug and glider were blown off course, never reached MALTA, finally landed 120 - 140 miles due South of SFAX after 9 hrs tow.  No.43.  Glider broke loose 10 miles West of MALTA - tug circled area and dropped dinghies but could not see glider or crew.  No.52.  Did not reach release point and glider was cast off at GOZO - landed and damaged undercarriage.  No.54.  Released 6 miles out from release point.  Pilot of tug did not know reason for release, glider observed in water 4 miles off shore.

        (c) Airfield C.  First A/C returned at 0038 hrs. and last A/C at 0415 hrs.  One tug, No.76 reported missing, but arrived later from SFAX.  Pilots reported gliders released 2 - 5 mins late owing to excessive wind.  4 glider reported released early, but pilots consider they should have reached L.Z.

        (d) Airfield D.  First A/C returned at 0024 hrs, and last A/C at 0211 hrs.  6 Tug A/C reported missing.  Nos.85, 88, 98, 99, 101A and 104.  These returned later from SFAX.  Pilots reported 8 gliders were released late due to interference of other formations.  4 gliders were released off exact course at 1,000 yds from coast line N. of tip of CAPE MURRO DI PORCO, considered that gliders could make L.Z.  No.83 glider was returned to MALTA without releasing, as tug A/C was lost.

        (e) Airfield E.  First tug A/C returned 0020 hrs and last tug at 0125 hrs.  Halifax No.135 came back on 3 engines - one engine having gone u/s on outward journey.  No.128 (Albemarle) returned with only 50 gals of petrol left, owing to heavy consumption whilst towing.  Pilots reported good releases and gliders should have made correct landing with the exception of No.128 who reported tow rope broke and glider free at 36° 50' N, 15° 13' E. at 4,000 ft at 2216 hrs, considered glider could possibly make coast.

        (f) Airfield F.  First tug A/C returned at 0040 hrs and last at 0400 hrs.  Pilots reported little difficulty in locating release point and considered that they had made successful releases.

11. LANDING OF GLIDERS.

The details of glider landings are shown in Annexure 3 with a summary in Annexure 2.  Approximately 50% of the gliders landed in the sea.  From pilots' reports it appears that approximately 60% of these that landed in the sea or on land were released over 3,000 yds (the distance ordered) off shore.  It is interesting to note that of the 50 gliders which were released within the stipulated distance off shore 46 landed on land and only 4 in the sea, and of the 73 gliders released over 3,000 yds off shore only 9 managed to make land.

12. GENERAL REMARKS FROM TUG PILOTS' REPORTS.

        (a) Route.  A strong S.E. wind was blowing which caused a number of A/C to be blown off course on the leg North of MALTA, as a result of which some A/C over-ran CAPE MURRO DI PORCO to the East.

        (b) Moon.  The moon was most helpful when flying into it.  In this case it was felt that an East to West approach would have greatly simplified the problem of identification of L.Z.  Some pilots reported that the shore opposite to release point could not be seen until the distance was less than 3,000 yds.

        (c) Formation.  Pilots considered that greater spacing of formation would be better, there were instances of crowding up in the vicinity of release point.

        (d) Inter-comn.  Telephone communication was provided between tug and glider in all cases, but in a large number of instances, this broke down during flight and led to misunderstandings in the release area.

        (e) Briefing.  Generally the provision of 1/25,000 maps were insufficient.  The scale of one set per A/C is considered necessary.  More photographs are desired - these were provided on the scale of one set per squadron.  Night maps were used by glider pilots and proved most useful.

        (f) Flak.  Light flak, slight to moderate was reported at CAPE MURRO DI PORCO and N.E. along coast at several points.  Heavy flak was observed 15 miles W. of SYRACUSE, some more seen near CAPE OGNINA.

13. GENERAL REMARKS REGARDING EQUIPMENT.

        (a) A more reliable intercomn system between tug and glider is essential.  The existing cable appears to break or become disconnected when excessive strain is placed on the tow rope.

        (b) A stronger method of lashing heavy equipment in WACOs will have to be considered, the existing strong points i.e. lashing rings are too insecure.

        (c) Breaking out equipment, i.e. axe, hack saw and pliers are an essential part of the equipment of every glider and should be provisioned.

        (d) Ammunition - especially 77 grenades are a distinct source of danger when carried unprotected.  Some form of fire proof container should be provided.

        (e) The high percentage of pilots who broke their legs in heavy landings proved the necessity for more protection in the nose of the WACO.  It is understood that this is a modification which is already in hand.

        (f) The life belt used by personnel of the Airborne Bde (as held on G.1098) proved first class and was the means of saving numerous lives.

14. ANNEXURES.

The following Annexures are attached:

        Annexure 1.  Take off diagram.

        Annexure 2.  Summary of gliders.

        Annexure 3.  Detailed reports on individual gliders.

        Annexure 4.  Nominal roll of glider pilots taking part.

        Annexure 5.  Summary of loads carried in gliders.

        Sketch Map 1.  Route ordered for A/C.

        Sketch Map 2.  D.Zs.

ANNEXURE 1 to PART 2, SECTION A

LAY-OUT OF A/C FOR TAKE OFF FOR 1 AIR LANDING BDE OPERATION

AIRFIELD A - 60 Gp.  1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, Z

AIRFIELD B - 60 Gp.  29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 52(a), X, 53(a), 54(a).  (X was Albemarle towing WACO)

AIRFIELD C - 62 Gp.  55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80

AIRFIELD D - 62 Gp.  81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 101(a)

AIRFIELD F - 296 Sqn.  105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127.  7 Albermarles towing WACOs.

AIRFIELD E - 295 Sqn.  128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135.  128 - Albemarle towing HORSA.  Others Halifax towing HORSA.

ANNEXURE 2 to PART 2, Section A

1 AIRBORNE BDE OPERATION 'LADBROKE'
SUMMARY OF GLIDERS - PART I.

1. PULLED OFF IMMEDIATELY AFTER TAKE OFF.

        (a) WACOs    113  117    Total 2.

        (b) HORSAs    NIL.

2. DID NOT CROSS N. AFRICAN COAST.

        (a) WACOs    42  120  121  125  126 A    Total 5.

        (b) HORSAs    NIL.

3. RETURNED NOT HAVING CAST OFF.

        (a) WACOs    41  52  83  85    Total 4.

        (b) HORSAs    NIL.

4. LANDED IN SEA.

        (a) WACOs    1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 30, 31, 32, 39, 44, 53, 53A, 54, 54A, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 77, 78, 82, 89, 90, 91, 92, 94, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 101A, 102, 103, 104, 111, 112, 114, 117, 118, 119, 124.    Total 68.

        (b) HORSAs    128    Total 1.

5. LANDED ON LAND.

        (a) WACOs    5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 24, 25, 26, 29, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 40, 45, 46, 47, 49, 50, 51, 52A, 63, 67, 69, 76, 79, 80, 81, 86, 88, 93, 95, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 115, 116, 122, 123, 126, X, Z.    Total 49.

        (b) HORSAs    129, 132, 133, 134, 135.    Total 5.

6. UNACCOUNTED FOR.

        (a) WACOs    12+, 23, 43+, 48+, 84, 87+, Y    Total 7.

        (b) HORSAs    130, 131    Total 2.

+ denotes probable sea landing.

PART II

Gliders in paras 4 & 5 above can be further sub-divided:

        1. Gliders released within 3000 yds of shore.

                (a) Landing in sea.

                (b) Landing on land.

        2. Gliders released over 3000 yds of shore.

                (a) Landing in sea.

                (b) Landing on land.

1. (a) GLIDERS RELEASED WITHIN 3000 YDS OF COAST AND LANDED IN SEA.

        WACOs    7, 28, 75, 82.    Total 4.

    (b) GLIDERS RELEASED WITHIN 3000 YDS OF COAST AND LANDED ON LAND.

            (i) WACOs    5, 8, 13, 24, 25, 26, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 40, 45, 46, 47 (beach), 49, 50, 52A, 55A, 63, 67, 69, 76, 80, 81, 86, 88, 93, 106, 107, 109, 110, 115, 116, 122, 123, 126, X, Z.    Total 41.

            (ii) HORSAs    129, 132, 133, 134, 135    Total 5.

2. (a) GLIDERS RELEASED OVER 3000 YDS OFF COAST AND LANDED IN SEA.

            (i) WACOs    1, 2, 3, 4, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 27, 30, 31, 32, 39, 44, 53, 54, 54A, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 77, 78, 89, 90, 91, 92, 94, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 101A, 102, 103, 104, 111, 112, 114, 117, 118, 119, 124.    Total 63.

            (ii) HORSAs    128    Total 1.

    (b) GLIDERS RELEASED OVER 3000 YDS OFF COAST AND LANDED ON LAND.

            (i) WACOs    6, 9, 10, 11, 29, 51, 98, 105, 108.    Total 9.

ANNEXURE 3 to PART 2 Section A.

SUMMARY OF GLIDER REPORTS ON OPERATION AT SYRACUSE - 1st AIRBORNE BDE.

Note:- These are based on statements by Glider Pilots and in the case of no glider pilots being available statements by the senior passenger available.

GLIDER NO.        WACOS

        1 SEA.  Very rough flight visibility of Sicily negligible.  Glider released 2210 hrs at 1800 ft approx 2 miles off coast.  Glider not able to make land; landed in sea ¼ mile from coast.

        2 SEA.  Good but bumpy tow.  Glider almost uncontrollable for 5 min over MALTA owing to bad weather and steep turns of tug regaining posn.  Intercomn u/s.  Tug altered course near target area twice and flashed lights for glider to release at 2210 hrs at 1800 ft too far out to sea.  Glider just missed reaching land owing to 100 ft cliff which necessitated pilot turning to avoid it and landing in sea off CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.

        3 SEA.  A good tow, but intercomn broke during flight.  Released as arranged at 2217 hrs at 1900 ft approx 3 miles off coast, but owing to strong wind and distance off shore, glider was unable to make land and landed in sea 1 - 2 miles off coast.

        4 SEA.  Rough but satisfactory tow.  Too far off coast at release.  Glider released at 2215 hrs at 1500 ft approx 3½ miles off shore.  Glider could not make land and came down in sea approx 1½ to 2 miles off coast S.E. of PUNTA DI MILOCCA.

        5 LAND.  Rough but satisfactory tow.  Glider released at 1800 ft approx 2,000 yds off shore.  Glider made successful landing on PUNTA DI MILOCCA.  Crew and glider intact.  Glider later burnt intentionally.

        6 LAND.  Good tow.  Glider released at 2215 hrs at 1800 ft approx 2 miles off shore.  Pilot unable to recognise L.Z. and landed glider on CAPE MURRO DI PORCO, collapsed undercarriage on landing.

        7 SEA.  Good tow.  Glider released at 2215 hrs at 1500 ft approx 3,000 yds off shore.  Owing to strong wind pilot unable to make land and landed in sea about 600 yds from coast.

        8 LAND.  Statement by Passenger.  Exceptionally bumpy flight.  Glider Pilot released at 2215 hrs about 1000 yds off shore height unknown.  Pilot did not know his location.  Glider landed on MADELENA Peninsula where it hit a wall on landing.  Both pilots broken legs.

        9 LAND.  Tug made first landfall North of AUGUSTA, Glider pilot requested a second run in and tug then came in on correct point.  Glider released one hr late at 2310 hrs at 2900 ft approx 5000 yds off shore, and made successful landing ½ mile S.E. of L.Z. but hit tree after landing - all passengers safe.

        10 LAND.  Tug made first landfall near AUGUSTA - turned south and made correct run in.  Tow fair until tug started evasive action from A.A. and S/Ls.  Glider released on instructions from tug pilot one hour late at 2300 hrs at 2800 ft approx 10,000 yds from shore, made successful landing 2 to 3 miles S.W. of L.Z. crew and glider intact (later burned).

        11 LAND.  Extremely bumpy tow off coast of Sicily, Glider towed first to AUGUSTA in error, towed back to correct point and released one hour late at 2320 hrs at 3000 ft approx 3 miles off coast, glider made successful landing on tip of MURRO DI PORCO.

        12 MISSING.  Tug Pilot states released at 1800 ft at St Croco 115502 at an unstated time.  Missed S.E. tip of Sicily and hit coast at Augusta.  Considered glider could make land.  Glider MISSING.

        13 LAND.  Tug pilot stated released at 2212 at 1800 ft.  Statement by Passenger.  Bumpy flight.  A.A. fire encountered before release.  Glider landed somewhere south of L.Z.  Pilots did not know where they were.  One pilot wounded in shoulder as he left glider.

        14 SEA.  Glider pilot found difficulty on tow owing to excessive speed when diving during violent evasive action.  Glider pilot was ordered to release at 2215 hrs at 1300 ft approx 4 miles off coast.  Glider unable to make coast and was landed in bay approx 1½ miles off coast.

        15 SEA.  Experienced mist between MALTA and SICILY, tug climbed to clear it.  Tug A/C made diving turn to right near coast when flak came up, thus loss of height and lengthening necessary glide to coast.  Glider released at 1700 ft approx 4 - 5 miles from coast, was unable to make land and came down in bay 3 - 4 miles from coast.

        16 SEA.  Most uncomfortable tow.  Tug pilot ordered Glider Pilot to release at 2220 hrs at 1800 ft approx 5 miles off coast.  Glider unable to make land and came down in sea approx 3½ miles off shore.

        17 SEA.  Intercomn broke during flight.  Glider released at 2235 hrs at 2000 ft approx 5 miles off coast.  Owing to distance off shore of release, glider was unable to make land and came down in sea approx 3 miles off shore.

        18 SEA.  Good tow.  Intercomn unreliable.  Towed past release point on first approach and glider released on second run in at 2235 hrs at 2200 ft approx 3 miles off shore.  Landed in sea about one mile from coast, just off PUNTA DI MOLOCCO.  One man drowned.

        19 SEA.  Tow was good but weather very rough.  Intercomn was inconsistent.  Tug appeared to miss release point on first run up and made a second circuit.  Glider released at 2230 hrs at 1900 ft approx 6 miles from shore and was unable to make land, came down in sea approx 2 miles off shore.  One man drowned.

        20 SEA.  Statement by Passenger.  Bumpy flight - saw MALTA.  Glider released over sea, distance off shore unknown.  Landed in sea approx 3 - 4 miles off shore.  All missing with the exception of two passengers.

        21 SEA.  Considering the weather, good tow up to release area.  Tug then started weaving and made a 180° turn to right, then on making a left turn, tug cast glider off owing to a misunderstanding of tug pilot, at 22[3 or 5]0 hrs at 3000 ft approx 4 - 5 miles from coast.  Glider could not make land and came down in sea 4 to 5 miles out, south of MURRO DI PORCO.  2 men drowned.

        22 SEA.  Considering the weather, good tow until 20 min before release when tug pilot turned off his lights and began to take evasive action.  Tug pilot cast off glider at 2230 hrs at 2000 ft approx 10 miles off shore.  Glider could not make land and came down in sea off CAPE PASSERO.

        23 MISSING.  Pilot reports.  Lost glider over sea at 36°50' at 1200 ft.  Time unstated.  Glider missing.

        24 LAND.  Tug pilot made two approaches to the island.  Glider pilot found difficulty in control when tug pilot made steep 360° turns.  Glider released at 2240 hrs at 2000 ft approx 500 yds off shore, landed successfully near CAPE PASSERO.

        25 LAND.  Good tow.  Glider released at 2230 hrs at 2,200 ft approx 3,000 yds off shore and made successful landing on land about 2-300 yds inland and one mile short of L.Z.

        26 LAND.  Considering weather, good tow.  Glider was cast off early by tug at 2230 hrs at 2000 ft and approx 3000 yds off shore.  Glider made successful landing approx ¼ short of L.Z.

        27 SEA.  Tow fair but formation too close.  Glider released at 2215 hrs at 2000 ft too far out to sea.  Pilot was unable to make land and came down in sea about 2 miles off shore and about one mile S. of Cape MURRO DI PORCO.

        28 SEA.  Pilot reports.  Released at 1850 ft at 2233 hrs at correct point.  Glider landed in sea.  Crew picked up and landed at SUEZ.  Not returned at compilation of report.

        29 LAND.  After rather a bumpy tow and intercomn going u/s, glider released at 2226 hrs at 2200 ft four miles off coast.  Glider landed on land approx 300 yds to right of correct landing lane.

        30 SEA.  Reasonable tow, but lost formation on approach to island.  Tug released glider at 2000 ft, 6 - 7 miles off shore and landed in the sea about 4 - 5 miles out from PUNTA DI MILOCCA.

        31 SEA.  Bumpy tow, lost remainder of formation at end of run up.  Glider released by tug at 2228 hrs at 2000 ft approx 4 miles off shore.  Glider unable to make land and came down in sea about 1 - 2 miles off coast and south of Cape MURRO DI PORCO.

        32 SEA.  Good tow, but formation too tight.  Tug lost remainder of echelon and released glider without warning at 2230 hrs at 3000 ft approx 5 - 6 miles off shore, glider landed in sea off CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.

        33 LAND.  Normal tow, glider released at 2225 hrs at 1800 ft approx 2500 yds off shore and landed on land approx 2 miles S.W. of L.Z. as pilot was unable to recognise correct L.Z.

        34 LAND.  Good tow, but formation considered too close for night flying.  Very bumpy conditions.  Glider released at 2227 hrs at 1800 ft approx over the coast and made successful landing on L.Z.

        35 LAND.  Good tow though failed to pick up MALTA.  Glider pilot experienced difficulty in seeing coast line.  Glider released at 2222 hrs at 1800 ft approx 1500 yds off coast, and made a successful landing 2 miles S.W. of L.Z. but struck wall at end of run - 3 men hurt.

        36 LAND.  Tow uncomfortable, at low altitudes and when avoiding other formations.  Glider released at 2225 hrs at 1900 ft approx 2500 yds off shore and owing to poor visibility landed ½ - ¾ mile S.W. of L.Z.

        37 LAND.  Satisfactory flight, coast line difficult to identify.  Tug pilot approached release point as arranged.  Intercomn u/s.  Glider released at 2235 hrs at 1900 ft, approx one mile off shore.  Glider made successful landing approx one mile S.E. of L.Z.

        38 LAND.  Successful and correct tow under bumpy conditions.  Glider released at 2230 hrs at 2000 ft approx 1000 yds off shore and made successful landing ½ mile East of correct L.Z.  Pilot hampered by poor visibility.

        39 SEA.  On the whole tow was good but formation too tight.  Glider released at 2235 hrs at 1700 ft approx 3 miles off coast and came down in sea about one mile S. of PUNTA DI MOLOCCA.  1st Pilot all right, all others believed drowned.

        40 LAND.  Tow in formation as far as MALTA where tug did steep right hand dive and lost formation which was never regained.  Given into wind release in area AVOLA - MOTO at 2255 hrs at 1500 ft approx ½ mile from coast.  Glider landed some 15 - 20 miles south of correct L.Z.  Fuselage undamaged, wings and undercarriage damaged.

        41 RET.  On second attempt failed to locate MALTA and got completely lost.  After six hrs approx, returned to N. African coast and landed approx 80 miles South of SFAX.

        42 RET.  After take-off, car 5 cwt. came loose in glider and pilot cast off and landed approx 60 miles from airfield.  Slight damage to a/c.  Insecure lashing of car 5 cwt.

        43 MISSING.  Pilot of tug reported glider broke loose 10 miles West of MALTA.  GLIDER MISSING.

        44 SEA.  Known to have landed in sea.  No report available.  All but two believed casualties; those two in hospital in SYRACUSE.

        45 LAND.  Good tow, constant speed, too close formation.  Steady evasive action at Sicilian coast.  Glider released at 2235 hrs at 2,000 ft approx 2,000 yds off shore and made successful landing ¼ to ½ mile West of L.Z.  No injury or damage to crew or load.

        46 LAND.  Very good tow, fairly constant speed, too close formation to release pt.  Over MALTA tow plane crossed rope of leading combination.  Glider released at 2235 hrs, at 2,000 ft, approx 2,000 yds off coast and made successful landing 3-400 yds short of correct L.Z.  Undercarriage damaged.

        47 LAND.  Tug Pilot states glider released at 2254 hrs, at 1800 ft, at correct point, on second run up.  Statement by Passenger.  Bumpy flight.  Met A.A. fire as glider came in to shore.  Glider landed on beach 50 yds from sea, close to enemy post.  Amn handcart in glider exploded, believed caused by enemy grenade thrown into glider.  2 men wounded, 8 men missing.

        48 MISSING.  Tug Pilot reports.  Released at 1800 ft, at 2245 hrs, at correct point, having gone off course and circled the release point.  GLIDER MISSING.

        49 LAND.  Uncomfortable tow when flying low and avoiding other a/c.  Glider released at 2235 hrs, at 2000 ft, approx one mile off shore and made land.  Overshot L.Z. and did 360 degrees turn and finally landed in some trees about 2 - 3 miles S.W. of bridge.

        50 LAND.  Glider experienced trouble from slipstream from formation ahead.  Intercom went u/s after one hrs flying.  Flak was experienced from coastal batteries.  Glider released at 2230 hrs, at 1800 ft, approx 2000 yds off shore and made successful landing on L.Z., but broke undercarriage.

        51 LAND.  Statement by Passenger.  Glider landed at 2300 hrs approx; crashed into orchard 10 miles S. of L.Z.  1st Pilot badly injured.

        52 RETURNED.  Tug got lost and never located release area.  Brought glider back to MALTA, where glider made successful landing.

        52(a) LAND.  Tug Pilot states - released at 2245 hrs, at 2500 ft over SYRACUSE BAY.  Statement by passenger. - Fairly good flight, slightly bumping.  Glider landed 2½ miles from BILSTON, S.W. of L.Z.  Met light A.A. fire on landing - 15 yds after landing glider hit wall.  Two hospital cases.

        53 SEA.  Good tow at constant speed.  Tug made coast 15-20 miles south of correct area; tug pilot convinced correct point.  Intercomn u/s and tug released glider at 2310 hrs, at 2000 ft, approx 3-4000 yds from coast.  Glider landed in sea 500 yds off shore.

        53(a) SEA.  Tug Pilot Report. - Released at 2100 ft, at 2238 hrs, at correct point.  Landed in sea close to coast.  All but three occupants survived.

        54 SEA.  Glider pilot found formation too tight.  Intercomn went u/s after ½ hr flying.  Glider cast off at 2230 hrs., at 1800 ft, approx 5 miles off shore and landed in sea S. of AVOLA, about 2-3 miles off shore.

        54(a) SEA.  Statement by Passenger. - Bumpy flight.  Glider released at 2230 hrs., at unknown height.  Pilot said just after releasing, "we are at 600 ft"; next moment glider landed in sea about 8 miles from coast.  All men got out of glider, but both pilots and 7 O.R's. missing.

        55 SEA.  On approaching coast of SICILY off CAPE MURRO DI PORCO, pilot observed small amount of flak some distance away.  Tug then turned SOUTH and a/c formation lights were extinguished.  Glider pilot could no longer see tug, so cast off and landed in sea two miles off AVOLA.

        56 SEA.  Tug cast glider off at 2255 hrs, at 1100 ft, approx 3 miles off shore.  Glider could not make L.Z. so tried to make landing on CAPE MURRO DI PORCO, gliding in at 75-80 m.p.h.  Could not make it, so landed in sea, just South of Cape.  Considered cast off too far out.  Intercomn went u/s through tug taking evasive action, and snapping cable.

        57 SEA.  Glider pilot stated tug a/c made incorrect approach - not as planned.  Intercomn went u/s.  Glider cast off at 2250 hrs, at 1400 ft, approx 2½  miles off shore; could not make land and came down in sea approx ¼ mile off CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.

        58 SEA.  Statement by Passenger - Flight bumpy, but uneventful until reaching SICILIAN Coast.  At 2230 hrs and at approx 1500 ft, when tug a/c appeared to sheer off to East, glider was released about 5 miles off shore.  Glider landed in sea about 3 miles S.E. of AVOLA.  Both pilots missing, believed drowned.

        59 SEA.  Glider felt sloppy on tow and there was bad vibration.  Glider released on order from tug navigator, at 2230 hrs, at 1450 ft, approx 4 miles out to sea, and landed in sea about 2 miles South of L.Z.

        60 SEA.  Statement by Passenger - Glider Pilot cast off at 2215 hrs, about 1400 ft, on seeing glider on left cast off.  At about 400 ft, pilot gave the order for a sea landing and glider landed approx one mile off shore.  First pilot failed to get out of glider and three more are missing, believed drowned.

        61 SEA.  Uneventful tow.  Glider released at 2225 hrs, at 1500 ft (alt reading), approx 2½ miles off coast.  Glider unable to make land came down in sea approx one mile off shore.  Altimeter was reading 300 ft on landing.

        62 SEA.  Glider pilot was ordered by tug pilot to release at 2230 hrs, at 1500 ft, approx 2 miles off shore.  Tug pilot has mistaken CAPE OGNINA for CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.  Glider landed in sea, 100 yds short of CAPE OGNINA.

        63 LAND.  Good tow, but copilot's left rudder bar came loose twice.  Intercomn went u/s after take-off.  Glider released at 2225 hrs, at 2000 ft, approx 1½ miles off coast; glider landed in area of L.Z., but crashed into wall and tree.  Crew and passengers safe.

        64 SEA.  Very steady flight without incident.  Glider pilot released at 2230 hrs, at approx 1500 ft, about 3 miles off shore.  Glider could not make land and came down in sea, approx 1½ miles off shore.  5 passengers believed drowned.

        65 SEA.  Statement by Passenger - Glider was released, thought by the tug, at 2210 hrs., very low down.  As soon as released, Pilot ordered tps to prepare for sea landing.  Glider made a bad landing in the sea, 6 miles off PORTOPALA.  2 missing, believed drowned.

        66 SEA.  Normal flight.  Glider was cast off by tug a/c at 2230 hrs, at 1100 ft. approx 3½ miles off shore, made landing on sea approx 2-2½ miles off PUNTA DI MOLOCCA.  1st Pilot drowned.

        67 LAND.  Very good tow, but approach to release point not as briefed.  Glider released at 2245 hrs, at 1500 ft, approx one mile from shore.  Glider landed in field adjacent to correct L.Z.  No casualties.

        68 SEA.  Good tow.  Intercomn failed on take off.  Made incorrect landfall and glider was released by tug A/C on second run in at 2300 hrs and 1600 ft approx 4000 yds off shore.  Glider landed in sea approx ¼ to ½ mile S. of escarpment on Cape MURRO DI PORCO.  Probably 6 drowned (Pilots report).

        69 LAND.  Very good tow.  Intercomn worked well all the way.  Glider released at 2245 hrs at 1500 ft about one mile off coast and landed in field next to L.Z.

        70 SEA.  When approx off the twin headlands flak came up from there and CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.  The tug A/C immediately made a 180° right hand turn and headed East away from land.  Tug A/C then ordered release by signal when at 1400 ft.  After release glider glided at 75-80 m.p.h. in direction of nearest land, but was unable to reach it and came down in sea approx 4 miles off CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.  Glider pilot was unable to recognise any point on land as tug flew Eastwards out to sea prior to release.

        71 SEA.  Statement by Passenger.  Flight uneventful.  Released at 2220 hrs at unstated height and glider landed in sea about 3 miles off shore.  1 missing believed drowned.

        72 SEA.  Approach was made too far out.  Intercomn faulty, visual signal was given by tug for glider to release at 2230 hrs at 1400 ft approx 2½ miles off shore.  Glider could not make land and came down in sea approx one mile off coast.

        73 SEA.  Tug A/C became lost in vicinity of release point and glider then cast off at 2225 hrs at 1400 ft approx 2½ miles off shore.  Glider was unable to make land and came down in sea approx 1½ miles off coast.

        74 SEA.  Tow uneventful.  Glider released too far off shore on signal from tug A/C at 2220 hrs at 1400 ft approx 5 miles off shore, Glider landed in sea approx 2 miles from shore.  Starboard wing damaged on landing.

        75 SEA.  Good tow and intercomn, glider released at 2225 hrs at 1400 ft, approx 3000 yds off shore and was unable to make land, came down in sea about ¾ mile S. of CAPE MURRO DI PORCO about one mile off shore.  One or two killed by M.G. fire (Pilots report).

        76 LAND.  Statement by Passenger.  No information available about flight.  Glider released at 2200 hrs at an unknown height close in to shore and landed 100 yds inland about 5 miles South of the R.V.  One offr and 4 O.Rs. injured in crash.

        77 SEA.  Statement by Passenger.  Flight without incident until experience of considerable amount of flak on coast of SICILY.  Tug A/C appeared to turn to East and when glider released was going out to sea again.  Glider failed to make land and came down in sea off shore.  One drowned, one missing believed drowned.

        78 SEA.  Bumpy tow, at times out of formation.  Whole element swung right on approaching bay and pilot could not see landmarks as briefed.  Glider released 2220 hrs at 1500 ft approx 4 miles off shore and landed in sea 2 miles off shore in the bay.

        79 LAND.  Tow successful.  Glider released at 2330 hrs at 1400 ft approx 500 yds off shore, made successful landing in an orchard 5-7 miles S.W. of L.Z. but crew safe.

        80 LAND.  Tug A/C lost bearing off SICILY and returned to MALTA where a night fighter was encountered.  Made second attempt to reach release point glider eventually cast off at 2325 hrs at 1500 ft approx 700 yds off shore and landed successfully on L.Z.

        81 LAND.  Statement by Passenger.  Uneventful flight, no details available on release.  Glider landed on land ½ mile S.E. of PACHINO.  2 wounded.

        82 SEA.  Tow successful.  Missed release point and glider released near SYRACUSE at 2320 hrs at 1800 ft approx 800 yds off coast.  Caught by S/L and flak - 2 men killed, glider landed in sea about ½ mile S. of SYRACUSE.

        83 RETURN.  Tug appeared to make two attempts to find correct release point, but failed each time was approx 3 miles off shore.  Tug eventually got lost and returned with glider to MALTA where it landed successfully.

        84 MISSING.  Made four attempts at run in finally released over SYRACUSE BAY.  Glider missing.

        85 RETURN.  Tug pilot could not pick up release point after several attempts, after which he insisted on bringing glider back to N. Africa, rather than release.  Tug ran short of petrol off coast near SFAX and ordered glider pilot to land on sea close to shore for safety.  Glider slightly damaged on landing but personnel safe.

        86 LAND.  Good tow, intercomn worked well all the way.  Strong cross wind.  Tug missed release point on first two attempts and glider released on third run in at 2340 hrs at 1300 ft and one mile from coast.  Glider landed in orchard 2-300 yds West of L.Z.  One man received broken leg.

        87 MISSING.  Glider missing, believed down at sea.

        88 LAND.  Statement by Passenger.  Flight uneventful but bumpy - glider hit telegraph wires on landing and crashed into wall 2 miles S. of CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.  3 wounded.

        89 SEA.  Statement by Passenger. - Flight went well.  Glider released at 2220 hrs. at approx 1400 ft, and landed in sea.  Personnel picked up by H.M.S. CARLISLE.  One missing, believed drowned.

        90 SEA.  Developed tail flutter and cast off.  Took off again new glider at 2007.  Tug missed release point, glider cast off on return run in at 2245 hrs, at 2000 ft, approx 3 miles off coast.  Glider landed in sea, approx 1-2 miles off shore, S. of CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.  One man drowned.

        91 SEA.  Observed 'flak' some distance off.  Tug turned Eastwards from coast and began evasive action.  Tug pilot ordered glider released at 2215 hrs, at 2000 ft, somewhere over SYRACUSE BAY.  Glider turned into moon and glider at 70 m.p.h. but could not make land.  Glider landed in sea three miles off coast.

        92 SEA.  Statement by Passenger - Glider landed in sea about 2230 hrs, approx 3 miles off shore.  Three men and first pilot missing.

        93 LAND.  Statement by Passenger - Glider just cleared the cliff and hit a wall.  Crew surrounded by Italians after few minutes.  2 Pilots killed, 6 wounded.

        94 SEA.  Statement by Passenger - Bumpy flight.  Flak about 3-4 miles off shore.  Sudden release of glider and warning from pilot - prepare for sea landing.  Glider landed in sea.  3 missing, believed drowned.

        95 LAND.  Tow uneventful.  Approach too far out to sea.  Glider ordered to release at 2250 hrs, at 1700 ft, approx 2 miles off shore.  Glider made successful landing on neck of PENISOLA DELLA MADALENA.

        96 SEA.  Approx 10 miles from Release Point and ten miles out to sea, tug pilot released glider from tug and, pilot stating that that was the point.  Glider landed in sea approx 7 miles from land.

        97 SEA.  Glider pilot states glider was 4 miles off shore and ordered to release at 2230, at 1400 ft.  Tug pilot ordered release and then dived off right without waiting for glider to release.  Glider turned into moon and headed for land, but could not reach it and came down in sea, 2 miles off shore in SYRACUSE BAY.

        98 SEA.  Glider pilot instructed to cast off by tug pilot, at 2220 hrs, at 2000 ft and approx 6 miles off shore.  Glider landed in sea about 5 miles S. of CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.  5 passengers were drowned.

        99 SEA.  Statement by Passenger - Glider released about 6 miles off coast.  Glider landed in sea about 4 miles off shore, hitting water hard and filled up immediately.  13 missing, believed drowned.

        100 SEA.  On final run up to CAPE MURRO DI PORCO, glider was so far out to sea that pilot could not see coast.  When at 2000 ft, glider pilot was instructed by tug pilot through intercomn to release.  Glider turned to bearing 298 degrees at 80 m.p.h; pilot could only see 'flak' in distance.  Pilot could not make land so landed glider in sea approx 2 miles off CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.

        101 SEA.  Pilot reported tow conditions good, but never passed over MALTA.  Glider released at 2235 hrs, at 1500 ft, approx 3 miles off coast, was unable to make land, so landed successfully in the sea 1½ miles off PONTA DI MILOCCA - One drowned.

        101A SEA.  Statement by Passenger. - Consistently bumpy and men sick.  First sign of approaching objective was 20 m.m. flak to Port.  A/c immediately appeared to swerve Starboard and glider was released at 2230 hrs, at approx 1000 ft, about 3-4 miles off shore.  Glider landed in sea off AVOLA.  3 missing, believed drowned.

        102 SEA.  Tug A/c took evasive action, although clear of flak, then ordered glider pilot to release at 2240 hrs at 1400 ft approx 4 miles off shore.  Glider unable to make land and had to land in bay 2 miles off shore.

        103 SEA.  No details available but glider known to be down in sea.

        104 SEA.  Statement by Passenger. - Flight uneventful, landed in sea, all got out.

        105 LAND.  Satisfactory tow but intercomn went u/s after MALTA.  Glider released at 2240 hrs at 1800 ft approx 3 miles off coast.  Glider made successful landing but 6 to 7 miles from L.Z. near CASSIBILE.

        106 LAND.  Good tow.  Intercomn failed.  Made first landfall N. of SYRACUSE, turned and released on second run in at 2310 hrs at 1500 ft approx 500 - 1000x off shore.  Glider landed in field next to L.Z. under power cables and hit a tree.  All personnel, except 1 Offr and 1 O.R. were injured.

        107 LAND.  Good tow.  Intercomn went u/s half way over.  Glider released on correct run in at 2240 hrs at 1600 ft approx 400 yds from coast and landed successfully in field next to L.Z.

        108 LAND.  Good tow until it became dark when tug lights hardly visible.  Intercomn failed on T.O.  At 2315 hrs and in very bad visibility glider released on orders from tug pilot at 1500 ft about 3 miles off shore.  Glider landed about 50 yds inland from coast about one mile N. of AVOLA beach.  4 men had broken legs on landing.

        109 LAND.  Pilot reports a good tow but intercomn was u/s.  Port light on Albemarle was u/s from start.  Released at 2345 hrs at 1400 ft approx 500 yds off shore.  Glider made perfect landing on L.Z.

        110 LAND.  A first rate tow and good navigation, but intercomn went u/s.  Glider released at 2240 hrs at 1400 ft approx 1200 yds off coast and made successful landing on L.Z.  One man injured on landing by gun load breaking loose.

        111 SEA.  Glider Pilot reports a good tow with intercomn working.  Released at 2230 hrs at 1800 ft approx 5,000 yds off coast, unable to make land so landed successfully in sea about one mile off CAPE MURRO DI PORCO.

        112 SEA.  Fairly bumpy, intercomn failed after 30 mins.  Made very wide sweep and did not see MALTA, later ran West and then N.W. and released at 2310 hrs on correct run at 1400 ft approx 4-5000 yds off shore.  Glider could not make land but came down in sea ¾ mile from shore.  No casualties.

        113 RETURN.  Pilot reported glider nose heavy, it broke port wheel of undercarriage on take-off.  Pilot cast-off just after take-off and landed back on airfield - no one injured, unable to take-off again.

        114 SEA.  Approach too far from coast to road map.  Tug pilot ordered glider to release at 2236 hrs when at 1400 ft and 2 miles off coast off CAPE MURRO DI PORCO, Glider could not make land and came down in sea approx ½ mile off coast.  Faulty intercomn.

        115 LAND.  Glider released at 1400 ft at 2253 hrs approx one mile off shore and landed approx in correct L.Z.

        116 LAND.  After a good tow, glider released at 2238 hrs at 1500 ft approx 1200 yds off shore.  Landed ¾ mile S.W. of L.Z.  Glider hit tree and broke up.  Two passengers slightly injured.  Inter comn went u/s.

        117 SEA.  Statement by Passenger.  Glider landed in sea within a few hundred yds of shore and drifted close enough for passengers to swim for the shore.

        118 SEA.  Statement by Passenger.  Uneventful flight.  Ran into heavy flak near coast and went out to sea again.  On second attempt, pilot released about 1500 ft and glider landed in sea just in sight of shore.  One missing believed drowned.

        119 SEA.  Uneventful tow as far as SICILY.  Glider pilot then realised he was not in correct release area but intercomn had failed, so he released when tug began to turn eastwards at 2235 hrs at 1400 ft about 6½ miles off shore S.E. of PONTA DE MOLOCCA, glider could not make land and came down in sea 3 - 4 miles off shore.

        120 RETURN.  Glider appeared right wing heavy just after take-off.  Pilot attempted to correct this and shifted the load to balance, but made little difference.  Pilot eventually cast-off and landed about 2 miles South of M'SAKEN after 20 min flight.  One casualty on landing.

        121 RETURN.  Glider released at 2020 hrs just after take-off, owing to starboard aileron going u/s.  Glider on its side in slip stream and wing could not come up.

        122 LAND.  Timing did not work out owing to increased strength of wind.  Intercomn went u/s.  Glider released at 2245 hrs at 2000 ft 300 yds off shore on an incorrect signal from tug.  Glider pilot mistook a flickering light for that of his tug.  Glider landed on land approx 30 miles South of objective.

        123 LAND.  After a reasonable tow, glider pilot released at 2240 hrs at 1800 ft approx 500 - 600 yds off coast.  Found it impossible to locate D.Z. landed glider on land approx 2 miles South of L.Z.

        124 SEA.  Statement by Passenger.  Glider hit cliff and fell back into the sea.  Severe crash into sea.  3 wounded, 9 missing believed drowned.

        125 RETURN.  Tug a/c engine caught fire approx half-an-hour after take-off.  Tug returned to base and released glider near airfield.  Sun dazzled glider pilot's eyes and he landed glider heavily near airfield - damage to glider but no personnel.

        126 LAND.  Good tow, intercomn failed after 10 mins flight.  Glider released at 2310 hrs at 1600 ft about ½ way across bay between PONTA DI MOLOCCO and MURRO DI PORCO and landed about one mile S.W. of L.Z.  No casualties but undercarriage came through floor.

        126A RETURN.  Pilot cast-off at 2100 hrs shortly after take-off owing to aileron control becoming u/s.  Broke undercarriage on landing.  No one injured.

        127 RETURN.  Pilot released immediately after take-off as wheel came off on take-off.  Not able to take off again.

        X LAND.  Fair tow.  Experienced flak near coast.  Glider released at 2227 hrs at 1800 ft approx correct distance from coast.  Glider made successful landing to S.E. of L.Z.  Too dark for pilot to locate correct L.Z.

        Y MISSING.  Glider missing.

        Z LAND.  Good but bumpy tow, intercomn went u/s on take-off.  Glider released at 2300 hrs at 2000 ft over PUNTA DI MOLOCCA and landed in cactus hedge about one mile N. of L.Z.  No casualties.

                            HORSAS

        128 SEA.  On beach 44 wreckage found.  No details.

        129 LAND.  Good tow, intercomn worked well all the way.  Glider released on orders of tug pilot at 2155 hrs at 4000 ft about 3000 yds off shore and landed successfully about 1000 yds short of correct L.Z.  Pilot states visibility poor owing to posn of moon.

        130 MISSING.  No report.  Glider missing.

        131 MISSING.  No report.  Glider missing.

        132 LAND.  Statement by Passenger.  Glider crashed about 400 yds upstream from the bridge (objective).  Burst into flames on landing.  One offr and 2 O.R. injured, remainder killed.

        133 LAND.  A very good tow, intercomn worked well throughout.  Glider released at 2220 hrs at 5000 ft approx one mile off coast, made successful landing on correct D.Z.

        134 LAND.  Statement by Passenger.  Rough flight.  Released approx 2215 hrs at 3,500 ft over land.  Glider subjected to AA fire after release, heavy tracer, left wing hit.  Flew over L.Z.  Glider landed 6-10 miles S.W. of SYRACUSE hitting a 6 ft wall.  Left wing burning also 77 grenade ignited inside glider.  Thick smoke in glider and men trapped by amn panniers which began to explode.  Intense heat and small arms fire made extrication of men difficult.  2 Pilots and 12 O.R's. killed, 7 wounded.

        135 LAND.  Good tow as far as MALTA.  Outer starboard engine on Halifax caught fire and towed on three engines for 40 mins, certain equipment had to be jettisoned.  On instructions from tug a/c, glider released at 2200 hrs at 2000 ft over the coast.  Glider landed 2 miles W. of landing area, hit a brick wall, undercarriage knocked back and broke leg of passenger on rear seat.  Compass in Horsa was not luminous and had to be read by a torch.

ANNEXURE 4 to PART 2 Section A

GLIDER PILOT CREWS

OPERATION AT SYRACUSE.

 

105. 106. 107. 108. 109. 110. 111. 112. 113. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118. 119. 120. 121. 122. 123. 124. Y. 125. 126. 126A. 127.

AIRFIELD 'F' Capt Boyd - Sjt Bannister S/Sjt Cawood - S/Sjt Holt S/Sjt Carr - S/Sjt Matthews Sjt Douglas - Sjt Donald S/Sjt Wood - Sjt Isaacs Lt Boucher-Giles - Sjt Miller S/Sjt Prescott - Sjt Scott Sjt Bayley - Sjt Linscott S/Sjt MacDonald - Sjt Welsh Sjt Struthers - Sjt Southey S/Sjt Ferguson - Sjt Rye Sjt Sharpe - Sjt Webb V.C. S/Sjt Whale - S/Sjt Wheatley S/Sjt Mackenzie - Sjt Webb L.A.R. S/Sjt Waldron - Sjt Harris Sjt Read - Sjt Gill W. S/Sjt Mackenzie - S/Sjt Edwards Sjt Kendal - Sjt Patterson S/Sjt Chapman - Sjt Kelly S/Sjt Iron - Sjt Nelson Sjt Pearson - Sjt Curry Sjt Braybrooks - Sjt Atkins S/Sjt Chandler - S/Sjt Torrance S/Sjt Nutton - Sjt Davitt Sjt Pavitt - Sjt Boucher

128. 129. 130. 131. 132. 133. 134. 135.

AIRFIELD 'E' Lt Lockett J - Sjt Granger Sjt Guthrie - Sjt Pearson S/Sjt Armitage - Sjt Calder Sjt Wood - Sjt Woodland Capt Denholm - Sjt Knott S/Sjt Calpin - Sjt Brown S/Sjt Watmough - Sjt Miller S/Sjt McDonald - Sjt Hobbs

ANNEXURE 5 to PART 2 Section A

1. FIGURES OF PERSONNEL & EQUIPMENT TAKEN ON OPERATION AT SYRACUSE

2. FIGURES OF PERSONNEL & EQUIPMENT RETURNED TO BASE OR FAILED TO TAKE OFF

3. FIGURES OF PERSONNEL & EQUIPMENT ACTUALLY LANDED IN SICILY (as far as can be determined)

ANNEXURE 6 to PART 2 A.

SUMMARY OF GLIDER LOADS CARRIED ON 1 AIR LANDING BDE OPERATION.

A. WACO GLIDERS.

(1) Gliders carrying 18 men only (2) Gliders carrying 18 men, 2 bicycles (3) Gliders carrying 15 men only (4) Gliders carrying 14 men, 1 handcart * (5) Gliders carrying 13 men, 1 handcart (6) Gliders carrying 13 men, 2 trolleys, 1 - 3" Mortar (7) Gliders carrying 12 men, 3 trolleys, 1 - 3" Mortar (7a) Gliders carrying 12 men, wireless sets (8) Gliders carrying 10 men, 2 handcarts (9) Gliders carrying 8 men, 1 trailer (10) Gliders carrying 8 men, 3 handcarts (11) Gliders carrying 6 men, 1 Jeep (12) Gliders carrying 6 men, 1 M/C Comb, 1 compressor (13) Gliders carrying 5 men, 1 Jeep (14) Gliders carrying 5 men, 1 - 6-pdr gun (15) Gliders carrying 4 men, 1 Jeep TOTAL WACO GLIDERS

25 5 7 50 1 2 2 1 23 1 4 4 1 2 6 1 135

B. HORSA GLIDERS.

(1) Gliders carrying 32 men only (2) Gliders carrying 31 men only (3) Gliders carrying 32 men, 1 - 3" Mortar TOTAL HORSA GLIDERS

4 2 2 8

* Load includes folding bicycles in varying numbers.

N.B. Normal platoon equipment is not shown in above summary.

PART 2 - AIR LANDING BDE OPERATION

Section B.  Ground Operations.

Ref Maps: 1/100,000 ITALY sheets 274, 275.  (Maps 1 & 2)

                 1/25,000 sheets 274 II S.W.  (Map 3)

1. Outline Plan.

(i) Objectives.

        (a) River crossing PONTE GRANDE 127293.

        (b) Capture portion of SYRACUSE from excl br 148303 to incl Ry Sta and hold an area bounded in NORTH by ry running to S. LUCIA - incl PAL DEGLI STUDI - sea - excl br 148305 - sea - incl Seaplane Base - incl factory buildings SOUTH of Seaplane Base.

(ii) Order of Battle.

Unit H.Q. 1 Airlanding Bde and Sig Sec 1 Airborne Bde Def Pl 1 BORDER 2 S. STAFFORDS 9 Fd Coy RE (less 1½ secs) 181 Airborne Fd Amb Dets: 1 Bn Glider Pilot Regt (273 pilots)          Two Naval Bombardment Dets.          4 Army Film and Ph Sec.

Comd Brig. Hicks   Lt. Col. Britton Lt. Col. McCardy Maj. Beazley Lt. Col. Warrack

Deputy Comd. Col Jones.   Maj. Haddon. Maj. Brennan. Capt. Holmes. Capt. Greeves.

(iii) L.Zs.  (See also Map 3)

        (a) One mile N.W. and half mile S.W. of br 127293, respectively.

        (b) General area between PUNTA DI MILOCCA 1424 and MADALENA 1426.

(iv) Method.

Operation to be carried out in three phases:

        (a) PHASE I - Capture of br by two coys 2 S. STAFFORDS.

        (b) PHASE II - Main landing and adv by 1 BORDER and 2 S. STAFFORDS to br.

        (c) PHASE III - 2 S. STAFFORDS to hold area of br, and 1 BORDER to pass through and capture SYRACUSE.

(v) Timings.

        (a) Attack on br 2315 hrs.

        (b) 2 S. STAFFORDS at br 0115 hrs.

        (c) 1 BORDER leave area of br 0145 hrs.

        (d) Capture and mopping up of SYRACUSE completed by 1 BORDER 0530 hrs.

(vi) Intercomn.

        (a) Bde H.Q. : Adv:- On rd from br to SYRACUSE

                               Rear:- At br.

        (b) Wireless

                No.68 sets: From Rear to Adv Bde H.Q. and from Adv Bde H.Q. to bns.

                No.5 G set: From Rear Bde H.Q. to Airborne Base.

                No.22 set: From Rear Bde H.Q. to Adv Airborne Div.  From Rear Bde H.Q. to 17 Inf Bde and 13 Corps.

                No.46 set: From Adv Bde H.Q. to 17 Inf Bde.

                No.66 sets: From F.O.O.

2. Action on Landing.

For reasons which are explained in the Air Report, the layout of 1 Airborne Bde on landing was far from being as planned.  In fact, owing to the wide dispersion of units and sub-units and complete lack of communications, it was not possible to exercise any central control.  The story of the ground actions is therefore one of many small independent actions, the most important of which are described below.

(i) Capture of PONTE GRANDE.

        9 Jul 2245 hrs - Horsa Glider No.133 containing 15 Pl 2 S. STAFFORDS under comd Lt. L. Withers landed at 124293.  Lt Withers and five men swam the canal and attacked a pill box on the NORTH bank to draw fire, whilst the remainder of the pl attacked the br from the SOUTH.  The attack was successful, detonators were removed from demolition charges and telephone wires cut.  15 Pl took up a defensive position and held the bridge against counter attacks.

        10 Jul 0430 hrs - A party of seven O.Rs. of 1 Airborne Bde Def Pl under comd Lt. Welch (Glider No.6) arrived at bridge.  A determined counter attack was made by three enemy armoured cars with M.G. and cannon.  The comd of one was killed, and the other two cars retired.

        0500 hrs - Major Beazley, comd 9 Fd Coy R.E. fought his way through to the bridge with 15 O.Rs. and immediately completed the dismantling of the demolition charges.

        0510 hrs - Lt. Col. A.G. Walch, Capt. Giles, and a party of approx 15 O.Rs. consisting of 1 BORDERS, 2 S. STAFFORDS and Glider Pilots arrived at the bridge under covering fire from the force already there.  Lt. Col. Walch took over comd of all troops at the bridge and had the defences strengthened.

        0630 hrs - Lts. Deucher and Reynolds with a mixed party of approx 23 O.Rs. arrived at the br, having had an engagement with the enemy M.G. post at 123286 en route.  At this time the strength of the force at the bridge was approx as follows:-

The enemy were holding the railway bridge at 115294.  An enemy mortar post to the S.E. of the bridge had been put out of action by our own 3-in Mortar which now only had 3 rds H.E. left.  These rounds were kept for an emergency.

        0800 hrs - Bridge and forward positions came under heavy and accurate mortar fire.  All the defenders were withdrawn into position on the canal with Lt. Welch and two secs on the EAST side of the bridge, and the remainder on the WEST side.

        0900 hrs - Major Beazley, 2nd in Comd of the force, was killed by Mortar fire.

        1000 - 1200 hrs - Sentries were posted with L.M.Gs to keep enemy at a distance and remainder of party rested.  Owing to shortage of ammunition they were only able to return the enemy's fire intermittently.  The volume of enemy fire increased, and included very heavy and accurate fire from a field gun on the ridge WEST of SYRACUSE, a gun (probably 12-pdr) 300 yds N.W. of the bridge, and one or two 3-in Mortars.  Defenders casualties fairly heavy.

        1200 hrs - Gunfire ceased, but Mortar and M.G. fire increased.  Reinforcements of enemy infantry had arrived, and his counter-attacking force was now estimated to be one Bn.  Defenders casualties increased.

        1245 hrs - The whole force was withdrawn to EAST of the bridge into a position astride the canal.  Provided the canal end of the bridge could be held, and also enfilade fire around bend in canal at 128294 could be prevented, this was a good position.  It was estimated that the position could be held for several hours.

        1400 hrs - An enemy M.G. was established at the NORTH end of the bridge and was enfilading the canal.

        1430 hrs - Enemy now within 300 yds or less of our positions to the NORTH, WEST and S.W.  The intensity of their mortar and M.G. fire increased and our casualty rate increased considerably.

        1445 hrs - All our outlying posts were wiped out, and our defensive position was enfiladed along the canal bank.

        1515 hrs - 15 to 20 unwounded officers and men remained, cornered at the point where the canal joins the sea, where there was no cover whatsoever.

        1530 hrs - The force having almost exhausted its ammunition were overrun by the enemy.  In the meantime Lt. Welch and a party of 7 O.Rs. crawled down a ditch running alongside the canal and lay under a small stone bridge.

        1615 hrs approx - Lt. Welch saw trucks containing the leading elements of 2 R.S.F. moving down the road towards the bridge.  The party then crawled inland along the ditch and contacted these troops.  After seeing 2 R.S.F. recapture and clear the area of the bridge, which took them about half an hour, Lt. Withers and party collected and evacuated all casualties.  He reported to Bde H.Q. at 124286 at 1800 hrs.  In the meantime, the main body of the defenders had been marched due WEST for 45 minutes, as prisoners.  They were joined by other Airborne prisoners and their numbers finally rose to 8 officers and 80 O.Rs.

        1700 hrs - A patrol of 17 Inf Bde was met which took their escort prisoners.  Lt. Col. Walch immediately reported to Comd 17 Inf Bde and obtained permission to take the party back to the bridge.

        2100 hrs - The party again took over the defence of the bridge arming themselves with captured enemy weapons.  At the same time H.Q. 1 Airborne Bde and H.Q. 2 S. STAFFORDS arrived just SOUTH of the bridge.

        11 Jul 0800 hrs - Lt. Col. Walch handed over comd of the party to H.Q. 1 Air Landing Bde.

(ii) Destruction of enemy battery at 088238

        9 Jul 2313 hrs - WACO Glider No.10 containing Col. O.L. Jones, (Deputy Comd 1 Airborne Bde), Lt.Col. M.C.A. Henniker (C.R.E), Major R. Tomkins (D.A.A.&.Q.M.G), Capt D.G. Clarke (B.R.A.S.C.O.), Capt R.S. Roberson (Bde Signal Officer), Rev. D.F. Hourigan (Padre), some signallers and other personnel of Bde H.Q., landed on the edge of the cliff at 075182.  Within a few minutes rifle fire opened up and the party moved NORTH.  Rev. Hourigan and two signallers were not seen again.  Party then struck the CASSIBILE - SYRACUSE railway and cut the telephone wires.

        10 Jul 0230 hrs - Lt. Budgeon with recce sec of 1 BORDER were met on railway line.  Party reorganised with 1 BORDER recce sec leading and shortly afterwards came under rifle fire 400 yds SOUTH of SANTA TERESA railway station, 121242.  Advance continued to a culvert, where, by the light of a No.77 grenade, three Italians were seen and overcome.  On reaching railway station, main CASSIBILE - SYRACUSE road was crossed and a thick barbed wire fence found.  It was decided that this position was too awkward a proposition to attack at night.

        0400 hrs - Party took up a defensive position in a farm, and laid up until light, when position could be checked.

        0700 hrs - Fire heard from battery at 088238 and shortly afterwards a salvo of naval shells fell 100 yds from the farm.

        0800 hrs - Position approximately fixed and recce made to locate enemy battery.  The recce patrol returned having located the battery which was now under fire from British guns.  Party was reorganised as follows:

                Plan - (i) Pile of chaff to WEST of enemy position to be fired to cause smoke cloud over enemy position.  (ii) Bren group to open rapid fire from S.W. of position when assault party threw grenades over knife rest on perimeter.

        1115 hrs - Action :-

                (i) on approaching the position, an enemy M.G. was noticed.  One rifleman was detailed to neutralise this.

                (ii) Assault party crossed last hundred yards at the double and threw grenades, whilst Bren group opened rapid fire.

                (iii) As the party advanced inside the position, grenades were thrown on the tents and gun camouflage nets which went up in flames.

                (iv) Rifle fire came from a dug-out which was attacked, and the occupants emerged after a grenade had been thrown in.  At the same time many Italians appeared from slit trenches and surrendered.

        Results:-

                (i) Italians: Killed 6, wounded 6, prisoners 40

                (ii) Five Field Guns destroyed and ammunition dump blown up.

        As this action finished, a coy of 2 NORTHAMPTONS arrived having been detailed by Comd 17 Inf Bde to destroy the battery.

        1400 hrs - Party returned to main road where troops of 2 S. STAFFORDS were met.  Two platoons were formed, party marched NORTH, and eventually took up a defensive position on southern edge of PONTE GRANDE.

(iii) Examples of other actions.

        (a) 2 S. STAFFORDS.

                (i) Glider No.7 landed in sea 250 yards from shore.  One man was drowned and one killed by M.G. fire from the shore.  The remainder reached the shore safely although still being fired at whilst swimming.  A number were exhausted and remained where they landed until daybreak, but three officers, the medical officer, a medical orderly and a signalman moved off to rejoin the Bn.  This involved a crawl through 20 ft of barbed wire, covered by a pill box 100 yards away.  Eventually, in the evening after marching 10 miles and joining up with three men of an A/Tk detachment and of the composite E Coy, the party rejoined the main body of the bn.  En route they had captured two pill boxes, 21 prisoners, three machine guns and an anti-tank gun.

                (ii) Glider No.24 landed three miles NORTH of PORTOPALO which is 56 miles WEST of landing area.  After skirmishes they joined up with the seaborne forces, eventually rejoining the Bn at 1700 hrs 12 Jul.  They had suffered no casualties and brought all their equipment including a handcart, with them.

        (b) 1 BORDER.

                Out of 72 gliders, 5 landed in SICILY within 5 miles, and 15 within 8 miles of correct position.  Glider loads were too widely dispersed to reach any pre-arranged R.Vs.  Enemy posts and batteries in the area were numerous, and many small parties of the bn, 5 to 10 men strong, did a very useful and necessary job of work in neutralising or destroying these.  Confusion and dismay, leading ultimately to surrender, was spread amongst the Italian troops.  The Recce Pl played a part in the capture of the battery at 088238, and a glider load of 'D' Coy assisted in the defence of PONTE GRANDE against Italian counter attacks.

(iv) Relief and Evacuation.

        SYRACUSE was occupied by 17 Inf Bde on the night 10/11 Jul and at 0900 hrs Bns moved up to the new town area.  2 S. STAFFORDS S.E. of the ry covered the approaches to BELVEDERE to the BORDER Regt defending Northern outskirts of the S. LUCIA quarter.  At 2000 hrs 13 Jul the force of about 800 all ranks embarked and set sail in four L.C.Ts. and arrived at SOUSSE at 2100 hrs 14 Jul.

3. SUMMARY OF RESULTS OF OPERATION.

        The operation can best be summarised by the following message from General Sir Bernard Montgomery, G.O.C., EIGHTH ARMY, passed on to 1 Air Landing Bde by General G.F. Hopkinson, G.O.C., 1 Airborne Division:- "General Montgomery asked me to let the Air Landing Bde know that their contribution to the success of the landing operations had been invaluable.  He regretted that the airborne operation had, through no fault of the Bde, proved more difficult than anticipated, but he wished to emphasise the important and gallant part played by all ranks.  In spite of all difficulties and set backs, the main objective had been captured and held.  For those responsible for this particular operation he was filled with admiration.  Others, who, by their own initiative, fought isolated actions in various parts of the battlefield, had played no small part in this most successful landing action.  Had it not been for the skill and gallantry of the Air Landing Bde, the port of SYRACUSE would not have fallen until very much later, because the enemy would inevitably have formed a strong defensive line on the canal to the SOUTH of the town.

ANNEXURE 1 to Report on Ground Operations of 1 Air Landing Bde on Operation 'HUSKY'.

REPORT ON MEDICAL ASPECTS OF OPERATION.

1. Medical Forces Employed.

        (a) Bn R.A.M.C. personnel were thickened up with Fd Amb personnel so that Bns left North Africa with one M.O. and 24 R.A.M.C. personnel.  In addition two orderlies were provided for each L.A.

        (b) One section complete was attached to each bn.  6 WACO gliders were allotted to Medical.

        (c) A surgical team (with officer anaesthetist) was taken.

        (d) A skeleton H.Q. of O.C. 181 Airborne Fd Amb, R.S.M. and one orderly travelled with Bde H.Q.

2. Equipment

        (a) Bn R.A.M.C. personnel (incl attached) were equipped with Airborne haversacks or special haversacks containing shell dressings, Sulphanilamide powder and tubes, scissors, S.B. Field Medical Cards, Morphia (6 tubonics).

        (b) Fd Amb Secs - sufficient equipment was carried to open an F.D.S.  Each member of the section carried a pack containing essential dressings and morphia in addition to the section equipment necessary for the F.D.S.

        (c) Surgical team carried sufficient to operate in conjunction with a section.

3. Transport.

        (a) Air - Each sec was allotted 3 gliders.  Into these were fitted the surgical team, in addition to the section with its transport.

        (b) Ground - One jeep and one handcart were taken by each section.  In addition one ambulance trailer was taken by the section not carrying surgical team personnel.

4. Distribution of Loads.

        In order that each glider load would be capable of functioning as a modified Dressing Station or Aid Post, loads per section were made up as follows:-

                Glider 1 - Sec Comd + 3 and Jeep.

                Glider 2 - S/Sjt + 10 with handcart.

                Glider 3 - Surgeon or anaesthetist, with surgical team, or stretcher trailer and remainder of sec.

5. The Medical Plan.

        (a) Each sec was to R.V. with the bn to which attached, and move up in rear to preselected site in Bn area.

        (b) The surgical team was to function in the rear bn area, operate on essential cases, and then move forward.

        (c) As casualties occurred they would be evacuated to Coy Collecting Posts where there would be 4 R.A.M.C. orderlies.  The R.M.O. would arrange collection from there to R.A.P. situated in the same area as the section.

        (d) Evacuation to rear was the responsibility of 5 Div.

6. Actual happenings.

        Only one of the 6 gliders is known to have landed on the island.  This contained an M.O., a Surgical Team, and four Nursing Orderlies.  This party established a Collecting Post and R.A.P. and acquired an Italian ambulance.  By the morning of 11 Jul, 40 casualties had been evacuated to M.D.S. at CASSIBILE.  On the morning of 11 Jul, with the assistance of three ambulances borrowed from 50 Div, a casualty sweep was made around all the known gliders.  In almost all cases, Nursing Orderlies had collected the casualties in groups and had carried out efficient first aid.  As a result of this first aid the condition of the casualties, many of whom were not found for forty eight hours, was remarkably good.  Wounds had been dressed with Sulphanilamide powder, splints completely applied to fractures, and morphia given where required.  During the day the surgical team was moved up to SYRACUSE where they worked with the M.D.S. of 141 Fd Amb.  A total of 13 officers and 129 O.Rs. of 1 Air Landing Bde and many wounded Italians were evacuated to the M.D.S. of 7 C.C.S. during the day.

7. Conclusions.

        (a) The medical personnel who did land were adequately equipped to function within one hour of landing.

        (b) The widespread dispersion of trained medical personnel in battalions was entirely justified.

        (c) In an operation of this nature it is considered that a medical staff officer from 1 Airborne Div should accompany the seaborne force, and that he should have a small pool of ambulances at his disposal.

ANNEXURE 2 to Report on Ground Operations by 1 Air Landing Bde on Operation 'HUSKY'.

REPORT ON R.E. ASPECTS OF OPERATION.

1. Tasks.

        (a) Co-operation with "coup de main" attack on bridge.

        (b) Removal of demolition charges.

        (c) If bridge blown, to recce for ford or detour.

        (d) Preparation for new bridge construction by ground forces (incl removal of mines and booby traps).

        (e) Collection and report of R.E. Intelligence.

2. Troops Taking Part.

        One offr and 3 O.Rs. under comd "coup de main" party.

        One sec under comd 2 S. STAFFORDS.

        Two sub-secs under comd 1 BORDER.

                Total 4 officers and 47 O.Rs.

3. Results.

        (a) Major Beazley, O.C. 9 Fd Coy R.E., his batman, one N.C.O. from H.Q. R.E., and one sapper, fought their way to the bridge.  On arrival they found that the infantry already there had removed the detonators from the demolition charges.  They then proceeded to remove the charges themselves.

        (b) Major Beazley was killed, but his batman reported to the C.R.E. that he estimated the bridge to be strong enough to carry Sherman Tanks.  This information proved to be correct, and was of great use to 5 Div.

4. Conclusions.

        (a) All R.E. personnel must be trained in the prevention of demolitions, and in the estimation of the load carrying capacity of bridges.

        (b) If a bridge is damaged or destroyed, all R.E. personnel must be capable of producing a recce report which will assist bridging by seaborne troops.

        (c) All R.E. personnel must be fit and able to fight in an infantry role and be determined to create as much havoc as possible if dropped far from their proper objective.

ANNEXURE 3 to report on Ground Operations by 1 Air Landing Bde on Operation 'HUSKY'

EQUIPMENT REPORT.

1. The following are the details of equipment taken on the operation by 1 Airborne Bde Group:

Equipment   Jeeps M/C Combinations Handcarts Compressors 3-in Mortars 6-pdr Guns P.I.A.T.S.

9 Fd Coy R.E. 1 1 - 1 - - -

181 Fd Amb 2 - - - - - -

UNITS. 1 Border 4 - 55 - 4 4 18

2 S. Staffords 2 - 37 - 8 2 12

Bde H.Q. - - - - - - -

The above equipment is in addition to the normal individual and platoon weapons held by units.

2. Of the equipment listed above, the following were available for use on the ground:

3. Special Report on Weapons.

        (a) P.I.A.T.S. - of the two available, one was directed with considerable success against a loose stone wall, the resulting fragmentation of which killed three Italians.  The other PIAT did a certain amount of damage against a pill box.

        (b) Stens. - This weapon proved unsatisfactory owing to frequent stoppages.  The cause of the stoppages is believed to be chiefly due to failure of rounds to feed into the gun owing to damaged magazine springs.  If the tendency for the spring to become weak could be overcome it is thought that the weapon would be perfectly satisfactory.

        (c) 77 Grenade proved most effective against personnel in the open and for firing Pill Boxes, Dug-outs etc.  A good grenade.

4. Ammunition taken on operation.

.303 Bren Magazines (per rifle sec) No.1 Sec Comd + riflemen (each) 2 i/c Sec Sten Magazines No.36 Grenades No.77 Grenades Bangalore Torpedoes, 24 ft Pole charges 6-pdr amn Pistol .38 P.I.A.T.

120 rds per man (incl 50 rds Bdr).   3 Magazines. 2 magazines. 6 magazines. 8 per man. 1 or 2 per man. 2 per man. 1 per Pl 1 per Pl A.P. 24 r.p.g.    H.E. 8 r.p.g. 24 rds per pistol 9 r.p.g.