- 1953 -

W/C EHM Walsh assumed temporary command of the unit pending the arrival of the new CO, G/C F Weiser, who is SOGT at Training Command HQ, Trenton.

G/C W Weiser officially assumed command of 2 (F) Wing vice W/C EHM Walsh, who re-assumes his duties as CAdO. No formal handing-over parade was held. CO held his weekly conference and presided the meeting. Major T Forsman of the AAFHQ, Paris, and responsible for flying control activities paid an unofficial visit to the CO.

CO held Senior Airmen's Promotion Board assembled at 0900 hours. G/C Weiser presided as president, W/C JS Jordan and W/C EHM Walsh as members.

CO's parade was held and the new procedure of drill and inspection was reasonably successful, less formal than ceremonial drill and at the same time served its intended purpose to give officers and Senior NCOs an occasion to practice drill and giving orders.

CO held his conference in the morning.

G/W Weiser, W/C JF Edwards and W/C JS Jordan and S/L Newton attended a cocktail party at Air Division.

CO held his weekly inspection this morning and found a decided improvement in the airmen's dress.

The CO went to 3 (F) Wing by air, accompanied by F/L GA McInnes and Dr. T Greenwood. G/C Weiser was checked out on Sabre aircraft today.

G/C Weiser soloed for the first time in a Sabre aircraft.

The CO held his weekly conference in the afternoon and discussed the movement of No. 2 (F) Wing to Soellingen, date to be determined when the contractor starts work on the runway.

The CO carried out inspection of airmen's barrack blocks, which apparently are not kept up to air force standards.

A/V/M HL Campbell, AOC, Air Division, G/C ME Pollard, SASO, Air Division, W/C Davidson, W/C Flying, 3 (F) Wing, met with G/C Weiser for a special conference regarding Exercise "Coronet". CO held a conference in the afternoon with W/C JS Jordan, W/C EHM Walsh, S/L PL Gibbs, regarding Exercise "Coronet.

CO's Parade cancelled this morning due to rain. CO left for Soestenberg, Holland, where he acted as RCAF co-ordinator with the RNAF Air Show.

CO returned from Soestenberg.

CO held his weekly conference this afternoon.

G/C W Weiser and W/C EHM Walsh visited the proposed site for the erection of married personnel quarters in St. Avold. They inspected the area on the Van Heck farm as to the feasibility and acceptability of the area for such construction. G/C Weiser departed by air for Paris to meet his family enroute from Canada. He returned later in the evening.

S/L HE Murphy, Spec/Messing, Air Division, F/L G Stantial, Spec/Mess, Air Division and F/L D Pope SOPA/3 Air Division, visited the unit on TD and routine staff visit. The former two officers discussed messing problems with the CO, CAdO, and Unit Messing Officer.

The CO's conference was held today as usual. The main topic of discussion was the deployment of 2 (F) Wing, Exercise "Great Trek", to 3 (F) Wing, pending runway repairs.

CO flew to Paris on personal business and returned at 1630 hours.

A/V/M Campbell, AOC 1 Air Division, paid an unofficial visit to the unit and conferred with the CO. CO flew to 3 (F) Wing to discuss operations and organization plans relevant to Operation "Great Trek".

Mr. G Ross, Associate Deputy Minister domiciled in Paris visited the unit. He later conferred with the CO. The Air Division Travelling Board concluded their findings and conferred on the general problems with the CO.

W/C C Trites, AOCE/AMC, S/L W Paylor, SOCE 1 Air Division, visited the unit and conferred with the CO on construction and engineering matters.

Commanding Officer held conference at which deployment of Squadrons to 3 (F) Wing was discussed.

Commanding Officer extended his compliments on the occasion of their forthcoming departure and W/C Walsh who had acted as Station Commander on two occasions was presented with an oil painting depicting a scene in the Department of Moselle (Lorraine), on behalf of the officers on the unit.

CO held his weekly conference. CO and Wing Adjutant left by Expeditor for 1 (F) Wing for liaison purposes re Operation "Momentum".

CO, Adjutant and INT Officer returned from TD at 1 (F) Wing where CO made a liaison visit with 416 Squadron.

CO made a routine liaison trip by air to 3 (F) Wing and visited the Detachment Commander and OsC 421 and 430 Squadrons. A social evening convened by Mrs. W Weiser was held in the Unit Theatre. The wives of officers and airmen were invited as well as airwomen.

The CO, FLO and F/L AA Ehman flew to Nice to pick up F/O H McAffrey, who was unable to return to the unit due to no rail transport.

The CO held his regular weekly conference. CO, Adjutant and F/O E Johnson flew to 3 (F) Wing on unofficial business with Detachment Commander.

CO flew to 3 Wing on liaison visit with 2 (F) Wing Detachment Commander. W/C J Clark and S/L J Murphy, Messing specialists at AFHQ and Air Division visited the unit. They conferred with the CO and inspected the messing facilities in the messes and hospital.

CO proceeded by GMT to Air Division on a liaison visit to discuss various matters of a Service nature.

CO's inspection on tarmac but squadron drill was cancelled due to inclement weather.

CO's weekly conference held, routine business only.

The CO officiated at a softball pitch for the Softball Championship. 2 (F) Wing triumphed over 3 (F) Wing, 8-2. CO departed by air for 3 (F) Wing on a liaison visit.

CO returned from 3 Wing where he visited the 2 Wing Detachment on a liaison visit as well as participated in Sabre flying.

A deputation from the Department of Defence Production visited the unit. They included A/C KLB Hodson, Chief Staff Officer at Air Division with W/C J Griffith, Planning Team (Europe). The CO tendered them a luncheon after which they were conducted on a tour of the unit. The weekly CO's conference was held. The usual problems were discussed and reviewed.

CO flew to 3 Wing on a liaison visit to the 2 Wing Detachment. He returned before noon.

CO flew to 3 Wing to visit 2 Wing Detachment.

The CO departed by air accompanied by S/L RG Middlemiss, OC 421 (F) Squadron, to attend the Air Show at Cannes and Nice.

CO and party returned from Cannes by air. The CO received the cup presented to 430 Squadron in honour of their presentation at the Air Show.

CO's conference held at which minutes of the last meeting were reviewed and new business discussed.

CO and party returned by air at 2100 from England, having attended the SBAC Show.

An unofficial visit was paid to the unit by A/M W Curtis, ex CAS, RCAF. A/M Curtis inspected the Guard of Honour which was commanded by F/L PF Maxwell, SSO. Later he was tendered a luncheon in the Officer's Mess by the CO. He later toured the unit. A/M Curtis was accompanied by Mrs. Curtis, who was tendered an informal reception by Mrs. W Weiser and the wives of the officers on the unit.

Mr. JA Sharp, Associate Minister of National Defence, and Mr. G Armstrong, Associate Deputy Minister of Finance visited the CO and conferred on various matters. CO departed on leave for Switzerland.

Party of 12 officials from DDP visited the unit on CE matters. They conferred with the CO who tendered them a luncheon in the Officer's Mess.

G/C W Weiser returned off leave and assumed command of the unit vice W/C JC McCarthy. CO and Station Adjutant departed by road to attend farewell reception at 3 Wing given by 421 Squadron on the eve of repatriation to Canada of S/L RG Middlemiss.

CO and Adjutant returned from 3 Wing after attending reception for S/L RG Middlemiss who is returning to Canada to assume command as CO, RCAF Ferry Unit, St. Hubert, Quebec.

CO held barrack block inspection as well as held his regular weekly conference. The CO convened a Board to review and make recommendations to Air Division HQ for all officers eligible for promotion to their next highest rank. The officers comprising the Board were G/V W Weiser, W/C JC McCarthy, W/C AN LeCheminant and W/C JF Edwards.

MG Destrimo and Lt. Col. J Duchausois of the French Liaison Mission in Paris, visited the unit and conferred with the CO on the construction of housing for RCAF personnel on the Van Heck farm outside of St. Avold.

CO departed by GMT for 4 Wing, Baden-Soellingen, to attend the opening ceremony at that Wing. He was accompanied by Mrs. Weiser and F/L CM Campbell, Station Adjutant.

Abbe A Robin, Cure at Lelling paid an unofficial visit to the CO.

CO went to Air Division to confer with the AOC. CO held his weekly conference.

CO went flying in Beechcraft 1527 but breaks were unserviceable.

CO flew by Beechcraft 1527 to 3 Wing and conferred with 2 Wing Detachment Commander. The CO later reported back from 3 Wing by air.

G/C AW Lieff, AMCHQ, arrived and conferred with the CO and was conducted around the unit on a tour and inspection.

Mr. Bill Boss, Canadian War Correspondent reported, conferred with the CO, toured the unit and obtained material for the 98 newspapers he represents in Canada.

The Sgts. Mess had a dance at which the AOC was present and together with Mrs. W Weiser, wife of the Station Commander, cut a large anniversary cake in honour of the occasion. The Officer's Mess tendered a formal dance at which a number of French civic and military officials were present. Guests were received by G/C and Mrs. Weiser and W/C JC McCarthy. A large number were in attendance.

CO went to 3 Wing by air and conferred with W/C JF Edwards. Agenda for AOC's Conference arrived and CO busily engaged getting briefed.

CO held his weekly conference, main topic was the return of the squadrons from 3 Wing to start on or about 24 Oct. CO, Mrs. Weiser, W/C JC McCarthy and F/L CM Campbell were tendered a luncheon by Rev L'Abbe Robin, Cure of Lelling.

An official visit was paid to the unit by the Honourable H Lapointe, Minister of Veterans Affairs, and the Honourable CG Power, ex Minister of National Defence for Air. Included in the party were A/V/M HL Campbell, A/C KLB Hodson, A/C L Randall and F/L G Jacques of CJS Staff, London. A Guard of Honour was extended to the Honourable Lapointe, under command of F/L PF Maxwell, followed by a luncheon in the Officer's Mess. Later the party were briefed about the Air Division and unit organization by A/V/M Campbell and G/C W Weiser.

CO flew to 3 Wing to discuss move of 2 Wing Detachment with W/C JF Edwards. Monseignier Charlest, ex Air Commodore and Principal Chaplain (RC) RCAF during the war, visited the unit and paid a courtesy call to the CO.

CO flew on a liaison visit to 3 Wing to check on the moves connected with the Operation "Rebound. CO and Mrs. Weiser were guests at an informal party held in the Café Trautman, Grostenquin, which was sponsored by the Wing Accounts Section.

G/C ME Pollard, SASO, Air Division HQ, reported in and conferred with the CO.

G/C E Sharpe and S/L M McCaig reported in on TD from Air Division HQ and conferred with the CO. S/L J Neff, TCHQ/SOTS and F/L J Freeman reported in from Air Division HQ and conferred with the CO and Wing Education Officer, F/O MA Zaharia.

CO flew to 1 Wing on a liaison visit returning by air at 0200 hours on 30 Oct.

CO conferred with W/C JF Edwards, W/C Flying and his three squadron commanders. CO made an inspection of dispersal areas and later held a conference of officers in charge of barrack blocks.

The CO held a conference comprising CTechO, MEO, W/C Flying and OsC of the three squadrons, at which a complete survey was made of the unit ME requirements for operation from dispersal sites.

Mr. H Low, Director of Current Affairs, NDHQ, visited the unit and conferred with the CO on matters relative to current affairs lectures, education, etc.

Mr. H Low, gave a lecture to the pilots on the proposed actions contemplated by his directorate in Ottawa. He later conferred at length with the CO, inspected the Unit School with F/L N Bracher, Chairman of the School Committee.

CO held a conference of Squadron OsC, W/C Flying and CTechO on maintenance and other matters. Messrs. Maurin and Branjer, representatives of the French Government in Germany reported in on a courtesy call and were conducted around the unit and conferred with the CO and Mr. Senneville, Unit District Engineer of DDC. A/V/M Campbell, AOC. 1 Air Division HQ, landed in his Dakota enroute from UK. He was met by the CO and departed for Air Division, Metz.

Mr. W Lunn, District Superintendent of the RAF Cinema Corporation and stationed in Germany, visited the unit and conferred with the CO on problems re the theatre.

W/C S Farrell, AFHQ/DAF, visited the unit and conferred with the CO and SAO on matters arising out of special allowances and problems allied with their issuance. CO held his regular weekly conference with branch heads and squadron commanders.

CO departed by service aircraft with AOC for the UK where they will attend a Land/Air Warfare Course at Old Sarum, Salisbury, Wilts, England.

G/C Weiser assumed command of 2 (F) Wing on his return from England, vice W/C JF Edwards. CO held his regular weekly conference at which he reviewed the minutes of the meeting of 9 Nov and discussed new business.

CO departed to Air Division HQ to attend a conference with Chief Staff Officer re the programme proposed for the visit of Honourable Brooke Claxton, Canadian Minister of National Defence.

CO held his regular staff conference.

1 Dec 53

CO conferred with CAdO, W/C JC McCarthy, CTechO, W/C AN LeCheminant, and W/C JF Edwards, W/C Flying, on the programme to be tentatively adopted for the visit of Hon. Brooke Claxton.

CO took advantage of excellent weather and went flying in a Sabre. CO attended an informal party in the Little Theatre tendered by the Unit Messing Officer's staff.

CO flew to 4 Wing to confer with CO of that Wing on the forthcoming visit of the Canadian Defence Minister.

A/C KLB Hodson, Chief of Staff Air Division HQ, accompanied by W/C RA Ashman, visited the unit. They conferred with the CO and later with the CTechO, on the static display for the visit of the Minister.

CO held his regular Monday conference, the topic of discussion being the planning and organization of the impending Canadian Defence Minister's visit. Mr. J Goldsmith, Area Representative of the RAF Cinema Corp, (Europe), visited the unit and paid a courtesy call on the CO.

Discussions were held by CO with W/C Flying and CTechO regarding their phase of demonstrations on the visit of the Canadian Defence Minister. G/C W Weiser flew in Expeditor 1532 to Trier, Germany, with classified documents for A/C WR MacBrien.

The CO attended an informal Christmas party in the Station Theatre given by personnel of SP, FF and Ground Defence sections.

A conference was held by the CO at the conclusion of the day's routine and was attended by the CAdO, CTechO and OsC Squadrons, at which problems encountered in the official reception to the Minister were discussed and recorded for future action and better co-ordination affected.

CO attended Christmas section parties in Cpls. Club and in the Little Theatre for 430 (F) Squadron.

CO paid a visit with F/L RM Wood to Air Division and conferred with the AOC.

G/C and Mrs. Weiser were among many who attended a Christmas dinner at Hotel Trautman at Grostenquin, tendered by the Canteen Officers and staff.

The CO visited all the messes on New Years and extended his greetings.

- 1954 -

CO held his weekly conference.

CO held his regular Monday conference, at which unit matters were discussed. The CO underwent a minor operation in the Station Hospital.

The CO held an investiture in the morning and presented some two officers and 12 enlisted personnel with the Coronation Medal. FS HR Hogue was also presented with the Canadian Efficiency Medal. The ceremony was very informal and held in the CO's office. At the conclusion of the reception the group posed for a photo for the Unit Historical Record. CO together with F/L RM Wood of 421 Squadron visited Air Div HQ where F/L Wood was tried summarily by the AOC for an alleged flying offence.

Messrs Goldsmith and Izod from Buckeberg, Germany, and representatives of the RAF Cinema Corp., UK, paid a visit to the unit and conferred with the CO on unit theatre problems. CO ordered a board of inquiry into accident to Sabre 19227, piloted by F/O DCG Hogan, 421 Squadron, which occurred on 16 Jan.

Miss M Van Steensyl, CBC Correspondent visited the unit and conferred with the CO and was conducted by the unit PRO and his assistant around the unit.

G/C and Mrs. G Westead, Air Attaché, Prague, Czechoslovakia, paid a courtesy visit to the base. He conferred with the CO, toured the unit and lunched at the Officers Mess.

CO held his regular weekly conference.

CO flew to 3 Wing to pick up W/C JC McCarthy, who was en route from Canada on leave.

CO accompanied by CAdO, W/C JC McCarthy, departed by GMT to attend AOC's COs Conference at Air Division HQ.

Mr. J Haire of Caravan Services Ltd., London, England, visited the unit and conferred with the CO and F/O D McLean, Chairman of Unit Caravan Committee.

CO held his regular weekly conference at which the CO's Conference was discussed. The increasing cold weather continues and the CO gave the CTechO and OsC Squadrons blanket authority in cease work for their personnel when the working temperature is 30º and below, they may excuse their personnel from work.

G/C GD Calbrick, S/L JM Duncan, S/L FM Oakes, arrived from AFHQ and conferred with the CO and SMO on medical matters.

A galaxy of VIPs from AFHQ arrived today. They were G/C R Cameron, DOE, G/C R Weston, DAPS, G/C JK MacDonald, DAPP and first CO of 2 (F) Wing, and G/C J Diamond, DPC. They were briefed by the CO, tendered a luncheon, toured the unit, spoke informally to the Sr. NCOs and conferred with the CO and the visiting medical team headed by G/C GR Calbrick.

W/C T Atherton and F/O AB Stirling and F/O DN Martin, branch head and staff officers Ground Defence at Air Division HQ visited the unit and conferred with CO, CAdO, and F/O BO Mayne, Ground Defence Officer, on camouflage, ground defence and anti aircraft training.

CO held his regular Monday conference, the principal topic of which was the visit of the Prime Minister and official party on 12 Feb.

S/L JN Bracher, Chairman of School Committee and S/L A Smith, AFHQ/AUC/SDL, who is visiting all Wings of Air Division on school matters conferred with the CO and discussed the school situation fully.

Visitors to the unit were G/C CH Colton, AFHQ, W/C F Bowler, and F/L J Reeves, who discussed technical and ME matters with the CO and CTechO.

The unit was bustling with last minute preparations prior to the visit of the Canadian Prime Minister. There were many visitors from Air Division HQ, including A/V/M HL Campbell, AOC, A/C KLB Hodson, Chief of Staff, who with G/C Weiser had a dress rehearsal of the events being staged on 12 Feb. A large group of press relations personnel, both Service and civilian arrived from England at 2200 hours and were briefed by the CO. G/C ME Pollard, SASO, Air Division, visited the unit and discussed final plans with CO and CAdO on Minister's visit.

CO directed a stand down for the unit.

CO went on leave to Garmisch, Germany.

CO returned from annual leave.

G/C Cox paid a visit to the CO.

The CO did not conduct his regular Monday CO's conference due to the fact that the operation took the Squadron OsC away on duty. G/C W Weiser and S/L JR Johnson departed by Beechcraft to Cambrai on a routine visit. They returned the same day.

Mr. Wilgress is the newly designated Canadian Ambassador to Russia. Mr. Wilgress was accompanied by A/V/M HL Campbell, G/C G Newsome, AAFCE HQ and F/L MF Doyle, EA/ACC. On arrival by air, the Ambassador was greeted by the Station Commander, G/C W Weiser. They journeyed to the CO's office where briefing was held, followed by a tour of the station and various static displays. Following this, a fly past of six aircraft was conducted. Then followed a tour of the messes and institutes and tea in the Officers' Mess. Mrs. Weiser held an informal tea in the Officers' Mess for the ladies in the official party. The official party departed by air for Paris. Ambassador Wilgress was accorded a Guard of Honour on his departure.

CO paid a brief visit to Cambrai by air.

CO held the first inspection of 2 (F) Wing personnel in No. 2 hangar. All ranks of Cpl. and below were inspected. CO departed by air with AOC and party to pay an official visit to Major General RE Lee, GOC, 4 ATAF at Landstuhl, and official reception at Ramstein.

CO returned from Ramstein, Germany, where he attended an official reception with the AOC. An informal birthday party was tendered the CO on the occasion of his birthday in the Officers' Mess.

CO held his weekly conference. CO and W/C McCarthy proceeded on a routine night flight in the Beechcraft.

CO went flying in an F-86 today on a routine flight.

Routine barrack block inspections were carried out by the delegated officers. CO, S/L J MacKay, Acting COpsO and S/L EP Wood, OC 421 Squadron, departed for 1 Air Division to attend a conference on details concerned in the squadrons moving to Rabat on Operation "Weapons Fire".

CO held his regular weekly inspection of unit personnel, followed by drill familiarization. CO departed by Beechcraft on liaison visit to 3 Wing and 4 Wing. CO presided at 1^st Year Anniversary birthday cake cutting ceremony for airwomen personnel at this Wing.

CO held his regular weekly inspection and routine drill familiarization. Defaulters on CO's inspection were given an added drill period after 1645 hours. CO attended an informal party tendered by 416 (F) Squadron at Longeville les St. Avold.

Weekly CO's parade held this morning but was dismissed half an hour later due to rain.

CO and CAdO flew to 1 (F) Wing at 1730 hours returning 0045 30 Mar. CO held his regular weekly conference.

CO, CAdO and Adjutant attended promotion party at the Sgts. Mess.

COs Parade at 0800 hours.

CO's weekly conference at 0900 hours, adjourned 0950 hours.

CO's parade at 0800 hours.

W/C McCarthy assumed duties of Acting CO during absence of G/C Weiser.

AOC and CO returned from Rabat 0520 hours.

CO's conference at 0900 hours. Lt. Gen GG Simmonds and AOC arrived 1130 hours. Gen. Simmonds reviewed Guard of Honour, proceeded to Officers Mess for cocktails and lunch. CO briefed Gen Simmonds in his office at 1430 hours on the function of 2 (F) Wing 1530 hours.

CO departed by air 0800 hours for London, England. CO returned 1800 hours.

COs Parade 0800 hours. CO departed for 3 (F) Wing 1700 hours to attend Mess Dinner.

CO returned from 3 Wing 0900 hours.

COs conference 0900 hours.

A/C KLB Hodson, CofS Air Division arrived 1000 hours, departed 1215 hours. CO and A/C Hodson carried out a trial run of route CAS will take on his visit to this unit.

CO proceeded to Air Division 1300 hours to attend conference on forthcoming visit of CAS.

CO's parade 0800 hours.

CO's conference 0900 hours. CO and CAdO carried out rehearsal of CAS visit.

A/M Slemon, A/V/M HL Campbell, General RM Lee, 4^th Tac Air Force USAF, W/C Gillespie arrived 1530 hours for visit. CO briefed the above party in his office, coffee served before tour of station.

CO flew to Paris 1100 hrs, returned 1400 hours.

CO flying between 1400 and 1600 hours.

CO held his regular Monday conference.

Numerous visitors to the unit on duty were Lt. Col. T Bond, Canadian Postal Corps NDHQ, Ottawa, who was accompanied by Lt. R Delziel, Canadian Postal Corps, Air Division HQ. They conferred with the CO, CAdO on unit postal facilities. The first introductory lecture was held by the CO for the Junior Officers Development Training project.

A/C J Long, A/C F Johns, W/C G Griffiths and a delegation from NATO HQ and reps of Ponts et Chausses reported in on a tour of inspection. They conferred with the CO, were tendered a luncheon and later conferred at length on CE matters relevant to the unit.

CO held his regular Monday conference at which all senior officers/section and squadron heads attended. CO flew to Bordeaux with F/O A Whyte, Unit Canteen Officer, in Beechcraft 1596.

A conference was held in CO's office, presided over by G/C E Sharpe, SOAF, Air Division. The conference was of a classified nature and was attended by representatives from 2, 3 and 4 Wings.

CO held his regular weekly staff conference.

G/C W Weiser departed on TD for 4 Wing to attend Senior Officers Ground Defence Course.

G/C W Weiser returned off TD from 4 Wing. CO held a conference in his office for squadron commanders and the COpsO on future movements of pilots within the Wings and squadrons.

CO and Mrs. Weiser, accompanied by F/L CM Campbell, attended as official guest, US Memorial Day Ceremony at US Military Cemetery at St. Avold. Following the service at the cemetery, wreaths were laid at the French Military Cemetery and British War Plot 1914-1918 respectively. An official reception was held in the City Hall at St. Avold at which the CO spoke and expressed his appreciation for the kind invitation to participate in the festivities.

Visitors to the unit were from Air Division W/C K Walton and P/O MV Duffin on Armament Matters, F/L W Greensward, Ground Defence who conferred with the CO.

1 Jun 54

CO held his regular weekly conference.

CO accompanied the AOC to Paris where they were guests at a reception given by M Leduc, Chef of the French Allied Mission. They returned the same night.

CO departed by air to attend reception being given by AOC, 1 Air Div for General Jouhaud, Commanding General French Air Forces in Germany.

CO flew to England on business connected with the Station Store.

CO and Mrs. Weiser attended an informal party in the Little Theatre sponsored by the Telecom Section and Building 10 in farewell to two of their members leaving for Canada.

CO's Parade held this morning, Wing ceremonial. CO and Mrs. Weiser attended an informal farewell party in the Little Theatre tendered by the Supply Section.

CO held his weekly conference.

CO held his regular weekly parade, held a ceremonial which lasted one hour and 40 minutes. Nine personnel were forced to leave the parade due to the heat.

Mr. J Brophy, Deputy Minister of Trade and Commerce, Ottawa, accompanied by Mr. R Roe from London, visited the unit on an official inspection. They arrived by CJS (L) Dakota, were met by A/V/M HL Campbell, AOC, 1 Air Division, and G/C W Weiser, Station Commander. After briefing by the CO they were conducted on a tour of the unit, later departing by air for 4 Wing at Baden-Soellingen. During their visit they were tendered a luncheon by the CO. Members of the 30 AMB Dramatic Club, Langar, presented "Arsenic and Old Lace" in the Station Theatre before a keen and enthusiastic audience. It was an excellent performance and the actors and actresses were thanked by the CO.

Major General D Smith, Army Member, CJS (L) paid an official visit to the unit. He was briefed by the CO, conducted on a tour of the station with emphasis on the domestic aspect and late departed by air for 4 Wing. General Smith is leaving Europe for re-assignment in Canada.

G/C W Weiser proceeded to Air Division on personnel matters.

CO held his regular weekly parade and inspection. CO paid a visit to Mayor Nagel of Faulquemont and discussed problems involved. CO departed on leave for seven days.

G/C Weiser returned off annual leave and assumed command vice W/C WM Foster, who relinquishes temporary command and becomes Chief Operations Officer. Enlisted airmen were briefed by W/C JC McCarthy and officers by G/C Weiser and W/C WM Foster.

CO paid a liaison visit to Air Division HQ.

CO held his regular weekly conference.

A group of French officers from Army HQ, Metz, headed by Col. R Alix, Lt. Col J Audin, Capt Y Castenot, Capt P Delanda and Commandant G Bastion, Chief of the Battalion at St. Avold visited the unit. They were conducted on a tour of the unit, senior officers lunched with the CO and the group left for respective units.

CO held his regular weekly inspection, after which the two squadrons as formed up proceeded on squadron drill movements. Col J Hackler, Lt. Col. R McGough and Major T Finler, USAF Base, Hahn, Germany, 50 Bomber Group, reported in and lunched with the CO.

CO paid a visit to Saarbrucken, afterwards was tendered a luncheon by Commandant G. Bastion, Chef de Batallion, St. Avold. CO later opened a Sports Day for the Cubs which attended by Cub Packs from this unit, 3 (F) Wing and Air Division.

CO and Wing Adjutant attended official receptions at Saarlouis and Saarbrucken as guests of M Robert Grandval, French Ambasadore to the Saar.

G/C JR Cellars, RAF Medical advisor to AAFCE, Paris, arrived on unit accompanied by W/C W Laughland, SOMS at Air Division. The party toured the unit, lunched with the CO and discussed medical and hospitalization matters. Mr. Andrew Cowan, CBC reporter in Paris, visited the unit and conferred with the CO, CAdO on the unit radio programmes etc.

CO went Sabre flying.

The first meeting of the NPF board of directors was held in the CO's office. A lengthy agenda was tabled.

CO held his regular weekly conference.

Commandant R Galvin, French Liaison Officer at Air Division visited the unit and conferred with the CO. CO flew F/O A Whyte to Bordeaux on AFEX matters.

CO held his regular weekly conference of section heads and squadron commander. Commandant E Galvin, FAF FLO at Air Division HQ visited the unit and lunched with the CO and later with the CO, S/L WG Scott, SAO, F/L S Woods, Acting CAdO, F/O A Whyte, Canteen Officer and Sgt M Reynolds, Civilian Personnel Officer, conferred on wage scales for French labour employed on the base.

S/L S Evans, AFHQ and F/L D Pope, Air Division HQ, visited the unit on airwomen personnel matters. They conferred with the CO and discussed problems with OC of Airwomen at this unit, F/O E Cox.

G/C LA Costello, Principal RC Chaplain (DRS) AFHQ, officially visited the unit. He was accompanied by S/L N Gallagher, Air Division Chaplain (RC). They conferred with the CO who tendered them a luncheon.

S/L Sansoucy and F/O J Cartwright of 1 Air Division Micro Wave unit visited the unit and conferred with the CO and CTechO.

Sgt HK Fincher, US Army Aircent, Paris, Public Relations visited the unit and interviewed the CO for an article for his accredited Service newspaper. G/C L Burchall and G/C G Newsome, NATO HQ Paris, visited the unit and conferred with the CO and later departed by air for 4 Wing.

W/C Tustin, new CAdO replacing W/C JC McCarthy arrived and conferred with the CO and CAdO. CO held his weekly parade and inspection. Wing ceremonial drill carried out.

W/C ER Emond (AFHQ) AMB Directorate visited the unit with Mr. J Sanderson, Financial Adviser to DM of National Defence. They conferred with the CO, were tendered a luncheon and departed by air for site of 1 (F) Wing in Europe, Marville.

CO held his regular weekly staff conference.

CO flew to 3 Wing to attend luncheon given by CO of 3 Wing in honour of the Honorable George Drew, Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party in Canada.

CO's Parade cancelled due to inclement weather.

W/C W Laughland, SOMS, F/L DL Thompson, Division Matron, S/L N McArthur, SOMS/Matron, S/L D Stewart MED/MO Hygiene visited the unit and conferred with the CO.

Mr. Alex Ross, Associate Deputy Minister of National Defence in London, England, visited the unit and conferred with the CO.

CO held his weekly CO's conference. Visitors to the unit this date were G/C A Spruston – STSO, Air Division HQ who was here on ME matters. He conferred with the CO and CTechO on matters concerned. Mr. Goldsmith of RAF Cinema Corporation at 2 ATAF HQ, Buckeberg, Germany, visited the unit on routine inspection of cinema centre. He conferred with CO and later departed.

Visitors to the unit were less than usual, the only one being Mr. J Dufour of Radio Station CKCH, Hull, PQ. He toured the unit, conferred with CO and interviewed French and English speaking personnel of the unit from Hull and surrounding area.

F/L DC Montgomery, Air Division HQ reported in to discuss the provisions of ADI 01/3 with the CO, COpsO and Squadron OsC.

A group of 17 school teachers arrived from Canada. They were met by F/O E Cox who acted as their conducting officer, usual reporting in formalities accommodation and welcome address by CO.

CO proceeded to Air Division on a liaison visit.

CO held his weekly staff conference. Visitors were Mr. J Langelier of DDR/Air Division HQ who visited the unit and conferred with CO and Mr. V Bonzon, customs export representative of Thomas Meadows & Co. of Paris.

W/C V Stewart, SOOrg from Air Division reported in and conferred with the CO and CAdO on establishment and future constructions matters.

CO held his weekly inspection of personnel. CO held NPF Board of Directors Meeting.

W/C WM Foster assumed Acting CO of the unit vice G/C W Weiser who is off duty.

CO held his regular weekly staff conference. W/C RTP Davidson, OC RCAF Detachment at Rabat visited the unit, conferred with the CO and later departed by air for the SBAC Show at Farnborough, England.

CO went flying and paid a visit to 4 (F) Wing and conferred with the CO. W/C LC Scott, Air Division Chap/P reported in on chaplain duties and conferred with the CO and his subordinate, S/L JN Bracher.

G/Cs JB Harvey and J Dunlop of CJS (L) paid an informal air trip to unit. They dropped off Mr. A Finlay, Dominion Commissioner of Boy Scouts who conferred with CO. Mr. Alphonse Fiegel of Saarguemines who is a Judge of the local area visited the unit with Capt J George of the Saarguemines constabulary and lunched with the CO.

CO flew to Rabat to ascertain if possible reason for two successive accidents in 416 (F) Squadron.

CO returned by Sabre after a brief visit to Rabat.

CO and W/C WM Foster reported on TD to Air Division to attend the 5^th CO's Conference.

CO and COpsO still attending 5^th CO's Conference at Air Division which concludes today. CO and COpsO attended a reception tendered by the AOC for A/M and Mrs. WA Curtis, ex CAS, who are visiting the Wings on an informal visit.

CO appointed W/C AWC Tustin unit CAdO to be OC of 975 for Copenhagen.

CO held his regular weekly parade and inspection of airmen.

Battle of Britain Parade held at which the CO took the salute.

CO held his regular weekly conference at 0900 hours. Messrs A Goldsmith and T Johnson of the RAF Cinema Corporation visited the unit and conferred with the CO. The Officers Promotion Board was convened by the CO and conducted their findings in the CO's office.

An official welcoming party for the officers of the RHAF was held in the Officers Mess at which the OC of 336 Squadron present a very lovely souvenir gift to the CO who was very touched and warmly welcomed the officers and men of the RHAF.

CO to lecture pilots and groundcrew on the functions of the Orenda engine in Mark V Sabres. A/C D Blaine D/AMTS/AFHQ and Messrs Roberts and Dnais of the Treasury Board reported in. They were briefed on the unit, toured the unit and conferred with the CO on technical and constructional aspects. G/C McKenna, CO, RCAF Station Chatham arrived on a visit to the unit. He conferred with the CO and COpsO on the training of pilots, pilot problems and other allied subjects connected with flying training.

G/C R Parissis, RHAF, and Major T Pessaris, US Army, Aircent HQ South in Naples, reported in on observer duties connected with Operation "Shooting Star". They conferred with CO and were tendered lunch.

CO completing preparations prior to his departure on annual leave to Parma, Mayorca, Spain. W/C WM Foster will be Acting CO in his absence.

CO departed on leave to Spain. Acting CO W/C WM Foster.

G/C W Weiser returned off annual leave today and assumed command from W/C WM Foster.

CO's conference held, first since CO returned off leave.

Visitors to the unit were W/C J Griffiths and S/L N Paylor who conferred with the CO on CE matters. Regular monthly meeting of the NPF board of Directors held in CO's office at 1400 hours.

Visitors to the unit were W/C H Smith and Comdt E Galvin from Air Division, who with Comdt J. Drucke and Mr. P Landabetcher of the Intendant's Office in Metz conferred with the CO on French civilian personnel matters.

CO held his regular staff conference. Later CO flew to Paris on a flight with 109 Comm Flight. Visitors to the unit were S/L N Drolet AFHQ and W/C WM McLean of AFHQ who conferred with CO and CTechO on photographic matters.

Visitors to the unit from AFHQ were G/C M Doyle, W/C J Knight, Mr. W Loynes, Mr. NJ Smith and W/C C Baker from Air Division HQ. This group is a follow up visit paid recently by A/C D Blaine. They visited the PMQs at St. Avold and conferred with the CO on accommodation, buildings, and messes and institutes. Later they dined with the CO. The regular CO's parade and inspection was cancelled due to inclement weather.

F/L R Cressman visited the unit from Air Division HQ on PMQ matters. He conferred with the CAdO and CO.

Mr. L Deschamp, DCL head in Paris and F/L R Cressman arrived and conferred with the CTechO and CO on the St. Avold housing project.

CO held his regular weekly staff conference.

CO held his weekly parade and inspection, followed by Junior Officers Development lectures.

CO held a special meeting on pay and allowances in France after which he prepared a special submission for 1 Air Division on the subject.

CO paid an unofficial visit to 1 Air Division HQ and conferred with AOC.

CO held his weekly staff conference. CO convened flight safety forum in Wing Ops Bldg which he chaired. A special meeting of the NPF Board of Directors was held in the CO's office, at 2230 hours.

CO's parade at which AOC, 1 Air Division was present and presented trophies to men's and women's Fastball Championship Teams at this unit. AOC complimented all members of the teams after which he inspected the unit personnel on parade. Following inspection he made an unofficial tour of inspection of the unit with the CO.

CO held his regular weekly conference.

A/C FS Carpenter reported from AFHQ and conferred with the CO and COpsO on training matters. Mr. J Chisholm from DM office AFHQ reported and conferred with CO and CTechO on ME matters. Regular CO's parade held at which inspection was conducted. G/C JB Harvey reported in on an unofficial visit and conferred with the CO.

The AOC, Air Division, A/V/M HL Campbell and A/C W Clements, Chief of Staff, also visited as did Commandant E Galvin, 1 Air Division French Liaison Officer. The CO and Mrs. Weiser attended a reception and dinner at 1 Air Division HQ in the evening.

CO flew to AFEX HQ with F/O A Whyte and F/L R Fallis of 1 Air Division HQ on matters connected with purchasing of supplies from the PX.

CO held his regular weekly CO's conference at 1300 hours. Mr. WJ Smith from Paris visited the unit today and conferred with CO and CTechO on mess matters.

F/O W Mulcahy, Med/Nur was married by F/L L Perusse, RC Chaplain in RC Chapel to Mr. KJ O'Brien, Tech Rep for GCA unit. A reception was held in the Airmen's Mess at which a large number attended. The CO proposed the toast to the bride and groom.

CO left for week end at Wiesbaden, Germany.

1 Dec 54

The 6^th CO's Conference started this morning in the Little Theatre. The following officers were in attendance: From Air Division – A/V/M HL Campbell, A/C WI Clements, G/C ME Pollard, G/C TA Spruston, W/C VHC Stuart, W/C WA Gamble, W/C HM Smith, S/L JE McLure, S/L WM Lee, S/L MF Doyle, W/C JHC Lewis, and F/L BL Ray; 1 (F) Wing – G/C JD Somerville and S/L D Warren; 2 (F) Wing – G/C W Weiser and W/C AWC Tuston; 3 (F) Wing – G/C AC Hull, and W/C CW McNab; 4 (F) Wing – G/C BS Turnbull and W/C JF Allan; 30 AMB, Langar – G/C GE McCormick and F/L RL Fullerton; SHAPE – Lt. Col. Berthiaume. The conference was very successful and finished at 1645 hours.

W/C Levesque arrived in from Air Division to confer with the CO and F/L LA Perusse.

The CO held his weekly staff conference.

F/L Kerslake of Air Division visited the Wing to discuss accommodation plans with the CO, F/O Boyle, F/L Woods and F/O Tuplin.

The weekly CO's staff conference was held in the morning.

The CO visited Air Division to discuss accident prevention with the AOC.

No flying except an Expeditor trip to North Luffenham by the CO.

W/C Baker, SOCE at Air Division arrived this morning to confer with the CO and CEO.

- 1955 -

The CO is on New Years leave and flew an Expeditor to England for the day.

The CO's weekly conference was held at 0900 hours.

W/C Baker, SOCE arrived from Air Division to confer with the CO and CEO.

The CO held a conference with the COpsO and Squadron Commanders. He then departed for Metz at 1300 hours to discuss flying matters.

The CO left for a weeks leave in London, England. W/C WM Foster, COpsO, assumed temporary command.

The CO returned from leave in England.

CO back to work this morning to a desk full of paper.

CO's weekly conference held and items discussed CO's Conference to be held at 3 (F) Wing on 2 Feb 55.

At 1330 hours CO notified F/O K Dea has abandoned aircraft.

Word received at 1830 hours last evening that F/O Dea located and uninjured. Vehicle sent to bring him to station. CO wants an immediate interview on arrival.

G/C Weiser addressed airmen personnel at 1630 hours outlining their responsibilities in a foreign country.

CO held Station Fund meeting this evening.

CO went flying in C-45.

W/C Hillgartner from Air Division reported in on TD to see the CO and S/L Brickman.

CO's conference at 0900 hours.

CO departed on leave at 1200 hours. W/C WM Foster assumed duties of Acting CO.

G/C W Weiser returned from leave 1200 hours 20 Mar 55. W/C WM Foster relinquishes command.

CO went flying.

G/C Weiser flew to Trier to take part in the official ceremonies.

CO inspected 421 (F) Squadron airmen departing for Rabat.

CO's parade held at 0830 hours.

CO made departure for Rabat but was recalled by the AOC.

G/C Weiser departed for Rabat at 0840 hours via T-33. W/C Currie was appointed Acting CO.

G/C Weiser expected to return 17 Apr via T33 from Rabat.

G/C Weiser delayed due to aircraft unserviceability. CO arrived back at 1550 hours from Rabat.

CO's parade ran according to schedule and most bugs are now cleared up.

Regular weekly CO's parade held.

CO flying after departure to 3 Wing.

CO accompanied AOC and staff officers to Paris – Party returned approximately 2200 hours.

CO's weekly parade carried out in AM. Commanding Officer represented AOC at Verdun this date and returned 1530 hours.

Weekly CO's conference held. CO and 20 personnel proceeded to Chaumont this evening as guests of the USAF.

Weekly CO's parade held in clear warm weather.

CO departed for Ypenburg this AM to represent the AOC at the Netherlands Air Force fly past Monday.

Weekly CO's conference held.