Grostenquin, France

1 Dec 55

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

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

3 Dec 55

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

Flying time:

5 Dec 55

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15 Dec 55

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20 Dec 55

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

21 Dec 55

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

22 Dec 55

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

23 Dec 55

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

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

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

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

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

28 Dec 55

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

29 Dec 55

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

30 Dec 55

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

31 Dec 55

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

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

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

3 Jan 56

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

4 Jan 56

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

5 Jan 56

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

6 Jan 56

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

7 Jan 56

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

8 Jan 56

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

9 Jan 56

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

10 Jan 56

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

11 Jan 56

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

12 Jan 56

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

13 Jan 56

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

14 Jan 56

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

15 Jan 56

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

16 Jan 56

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

17 Jan 56

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

18 Jan 56

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

19 Jan 56

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

20 Jan 56

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

21 Jan 56

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

22 Jan 56

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

23 Jan 56

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

24 Jan 56

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

25 Jan 56

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

26 Jan 56

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

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

28 Jan 56

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

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

29 Jan 56

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

30 Jan 56

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

31 Jan 56

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

1 Feb 56

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

2 Feb 56

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

3 Feb 56

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

4 Feb 56

Weather fair local flying in the morning.

5 Feb 56

Normal Sunday routine. No flying.

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

7 Feb 56

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

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

8 Feb 56

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

9 Feb 56

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

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

10 Feb 56

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

11 Feb 56

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

12 Feb 56

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

13 Feb 56

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

14 Feb 56

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

15 Feb 56

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

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

17 Feb 56

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

18 Feb 56

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

19 Feb 56

Flying time:

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

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

21 Feb 56

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

22 Feb 56

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

23 Feb 56

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

24 Feb 56

Local flying all day today. No exercises planned.

25 Feb 56

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

26 Feb 56

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

27 Feb 56

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

28 Feb 56

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

29 Feb 56

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

1 Mar 56

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

2 Mar 56

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

3 Mar 56

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

Sunday routine. No flying.

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

6 Mar 56

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

7 Mar 56

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

8 Mar 56

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

9 Mar 56

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

10 Mar 56

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

11 Mar 56

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

12 Mar 56

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

13 Mar 56

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

14 Mar 56

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

15 Mar 56

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

16 Mar 56

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

17 Mar 56

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

18 Mar 56

Flying time:

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

19 Mar 56

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

20 Mar 56

Local flying all day. No exercises planned.

21 Mar 56

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

22 Mar 56

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

23 Mar 56

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

24 Mar 56

Flying time:

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

25 Mar 56

Flying time:

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

26 Mar 56

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

27 Mar 56

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

28 Mar 56

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

29 Mar 56

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

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

30 Mar 56

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

31 Mar 56

Weather fogged in so little flying carried out at station.

1 Apr 56

Easter Sunday. No flying today.

2 Apr 56

Easter Monday. Station holiday

Flying Time:

3 Apr 56

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