Australia’s War Diary

50 Years Ago . . .

July 1 – North Africa. Rommel assaults the new El Alamein.

line. Kittyhawks of 3 and 450 Sqns escorting Bostons to Deir El Shein, fight a running battle with Me 109s. Sgt George O’Neil’s aircraft falls a mile out to sea. Bailing out, he jettisons his revolver, helmet, gloves and boots, then his clothing in the water. He struggles ashore wearing only a wrist watch. South African troops clothe and feed him and return him home. Later, 3 Sqn’s PIO Ritchie also bales out and returns safely. Britain. 461 Squadron RAAF has two Sunderlands for operations. Before the end of the month it will be at full strength.

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