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Aussie Rules in Algeria |
Between 30th March 1943 and 18th June 1943, members of the R.A.A.F. No.458 (Wellington) Squadron based at Landing Ground 91 (Shallufa, Egypt) were detached to Blida Airport, Blida, Algeria.
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It was during this time that members of the Squadron played some impromptu games of Aussie Rules and Rugby Union. The No.458 (Wellington) Squadron was founded on 8th July 1941 and disbanded on 9th June 1945.
Above: Blida Airport
Their motto was 'We find and destroy'.
Above: Members of No. 458 (Wellington) Squadron RAAF, based at the RAF Station, (Shallufa, Egypt) touring the Pyramids. Shown: 402227 Sergeant C. E. Cortem; Sgt F. Hart, RAF; 402516 Sgt J. J. Lynch; and dragoman.
Apart from creating history by becoming the first people to kick a footy in Algiers, the Squadron also undertook tasks including maritime patrols, convoy escorts, mine laying and conventional bombing tasks.
After moving base to Tunisia between 18th June and 9th October 1943, they wwere back in Algeria based at Bone Airfield with detachments at Blida Airport (again) and Réghaïa, where the Sherrin was more than likely produced again.
Above: 1943 official unit badge of No. 458 (Wellington) Squadron RAAF.
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Posted on Dec 12, 2010 19:56pm by admin
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