44 Radio Direction Finding Wing or 44 RDF Wing was established to War Establishment HD 694 of 1 December 1942 to administer and technically control all Radio (Radar) Stations in North West Area NWA. At that time there were six RDF Stations operating in the area, namely:-

31 RDF Station at Dripstone

38 RDF Station at Cape Fourcroy

39 RDF Station at Port Keats

105 RDF Station at Pt. Charles

109 RDF Station at Mount? Woods

132 RDF Station at Eleven Mile (Knuckey’s Lagoon)

The then Area Radio Officer, Fl/Lt Harold William Hannam (O21940) became the initial Commanding Officer. All new personnel for the Wing were posted from the south.

On 25 December 1942, the Orderly Room was setup in the Area Radio Officer’s tent at the nearby North Western Area Advanced HQs camp.

On 26 December 1942, instructions were issued by S.O.A. for the construction of a separate camp at 59 Mile about 1 - 2 miles south of the N.W.A. Advanced Headquarters at 57 mile.

Strength of 44 RDF Wing at 31 December 1942 was:-

1 Officer

9 Airmen

The above personnel were all housed temporarily at N.W.A. Headquarters.

Clearing of the new camp site began on 11 January 1943. All Officers and Airmen were billeted at N.W.A. Advanced Headquarters while construction was in progress and they were employed on construction work under the direction of Flying Officer Page of the Works Section.

On 12 January 1943, the Commanding Officer and Adjutant received instruction from the A.O.C, Air Commodore Francis Masson Bladin (O33), regarding the functions of the Wing particularly regarding its administration of the RDF Stations already operating in North West Area.

Between 13 and 17 January 1943, the C.O. and the Adjutant inspected RDF Station Nos. (Radar Stations) 31, 39, 105, 109 and 132 all of which were operational at the time.

On 18 January 1943, three portable Radar (RDF) Stations 307, 309 and 309, arrived in Darwin by ship and were housed temporarily at 11 Mile W/T Station with No. 132 RDF Station.

On 19 January 1943, Flight Lieutenant Rex Wright Wadsley (252244)took over as Commanding Officer of 44 RDF Wing and he arrived onsite on 22 January 1943. F/Lt Harold William Hannam (O21940) handed over command to Flight Lieutenant Rex Wright Wadsley (252244) on 26 January 1943.

On 26 January 1943, the supply ship for isolated Radar Stations, HMAS Patricia Cam was reported to have been attacked by a Japanese Aichi E13A float plane of the 734th Kokotai on 22 January 1943. The Japanese float plane landed and ordered Reverend Leonard N. Kentish, Chairman of the Methodist Northern Australian Mission District to climb on board the aircraft. It subsequently took off with Kentish onboard and disappeared to the north. Leonard Kentish was taken to the Japanese-held island of Dobo in the Aru Islands, which are now part of Indonesia. He was beheaded there on 4 May 1943.

The C.O., Area Hygiene Officer and Works Officer flew to Peron Island to select a site for 307 RDF Station as instructed by A.O.C. One 30 January 1943, the C.O., Area Radio Officer and Works Officer selected a site for No. 224 RDF Station on Southport Road.

It was reported on 31 January 1943, that progress on the new 44 RDF Wing camp site was unsatisfactory due to a shortage of essential material. One Mess Hall was almost completed, and work had started on the Equipment Store. Four tents were erected and occupied by Wing personnel working on site and acting as guards to protect equipment now arriving on site.

Strength of 44 RDF Wing as at 31 January 1943 was as follows:-

6 Officers

38 Airmen

Air Raid Alerts were issued on the nights of 21 and 23 January.

A revised Establishment No. HD-091 of 6 Jan 1943 was received on 15 January 1943 providing for:-

10 Officers

82 Airmen

2 aircraft

7 M/T Vehicles

Five M/T vehicles were received between 10 and 31 January 1943.

Urgent spares, rations and equipment was obtained and delivered to Nos. 38, 39 and 105 RDF Stations by air by No. 6 Communications Flight and by M/T vehicles during the month of January 1943.

F/Lt Hannam and F/Lt Wadsley travelled to Katherine by road to select sites for rear positions for Nos. 132 and 309 RDF Stations.

On 2 February 1943, 44 RDF Wing held their first Wing parade in full equipment.

By 5 February 1943, there was a serious lack of shipping available to transport personnel and goods to 38 and 39 RDF Stations. The issue was taken up with Area Movements Control and S.A.S.O. but no ships were available. Arrangements were made with No. 6 Communications Flight to fly urgent freight to 38 RDF Station.

F/Lt Wadsley and F/Lt Clement Francis Morath (262460) flew to 38 RDF Station to investigate ration and supply troubles. Urgent spares and rations were delivered over two trips. Beach landings were difficult except at low tide. Arrangements were made for necessary rations to be supplied by the Area Supply Officer.

On 7 February 1943, 44 RDF Wing was moved to its new camp site at 58 Mile. The camp was still under construction. All personnel were employed on building operational capability. The first Commanding Officers parade was held on the new site on 9 February 1943. The C.O. and Area RDF Officer selected the site for 308 RDF Station at nearby Batchelor.

Plan of RAAF Camp sites near Coomalie Creek Airfield.
No. 44 Radio Wing camp site is marked on this NAA Plan

Note:- 14MWS and 61WW on the above plan are
14 Mobile Works Squadron and 61 Works Wing which
are both RAAF units who had camps in the area

Plan:- NAA

No 44 Radio Wing is the 44 RDF Wing Camp Site.

Note that the Operations Record Book ORB for 44 RDF Wing initially states their camp was at 58 Mile, then it states it was at 58 ½ Mile and then at 59 ½ Mile.

An operational aircraft was sent to 39 RDF Station on 13 February 1943, with urgent spares and rations.

On 17 February 1943, transport problems to outlying Radar Stations was presented to S.A.S.O., Group Captain Simms, who arranged for temporary relief with aircraft. Ships were still not available.

On 18 February 1943, an Avro Anson from 6 Communications Flight made two trips to 38 RDF Station making difficult beach landings near the radar station.

On 19 February 1943, F/Lt Wadsley was admitted to M.R.S. (possibly 1 Medical Receiving Station) and was discharged on the same day.

The Avro Anson made two flights to 38 Radar Station on 20 February 1943. It became bogged on the beach after each landing.

F/Lt Wadsley and Area RDF Officer selected site at Fenton for 309 Radar Station on 23 February 1943. On the same day the RDF Officer was sent to Darwin after an urgent call from the Royal Australian Navy to repair the ASV on HMAS Warrego.

On 24 February 1943 an operational aircraft successfully dropped spares on a beach for 38 RDF Station. An operational aircraft was sent to 39 RDF Station on 26 February 1943 with F/O Ryan to assist in solving some technical difficulties. He remained there until 7 March 1943. On the same day F/O David Edmund Caro (254725) was sent to 1 RSU to check progress of the ASV section that had been started there.

On 27 February 1943, F/Lt Morath and F/O Robert Henry Partington (256184) were sent to Darwin to despatch 307 RDF Station to Peron Island by ship. The north-south Road was almost impassable after heavy rainfall.

308 RDF Station completed its move to Batchelor by 1 March 1943. Avro Anson DJ322 was allotted to 44 Wing from 1 RIMU on 1 March 1943.

On 2 March 1943, there was an air raid alert followed by two air raid alarms. Japanese aircraft passed low over 44 Wing and NWA HQs camp sites but did not attack the camp. They had carried out several strafing raids on nearby Coomalie Airfield destroying one Beaufighter on the ground and damaging another. Fires were observed approximately 3 miles away after an attack on 31 Squadron aircraft. Spitfires shot down four Japanese aircraft.

An air raid alarm was raised on 3 March 1943. No Japanese aircraft were sighted. A temporary water shortage occurred on 3 March 1943 due to transport difficulties.

Fourteen truck loads of equipment were offloaded from SS Wanaka at Darwin for 44 RDF Wing on 4 March 1943.

309 RDF Station moved to their new site at Fenton on 9 March 1943.

An air raid alert was issued on 14 March 1943. Two Japanese aircraft were sighted. On the same day A.O.C. instructed that 308 RDF Station send a skeleton staff to Millingimbi (Site ”X”).

On 15 March 1943, F/O Raymond Matthew Ryan (264741) and 10 airmen (from 308 RDF Station) were sent to Darwin with 3 trucks of equipment from Batchelor for eventual shipment to Millingimbi (RDF Station "X"). The ship to take equipment and personnel to Millingimbi did not arrive in Darwin. An air raid alert was raised on 15 March 1943. There was a heavy bombing attack on Darwin that day.

On 16 March 1943, F/O Ryan and party departed Darwin by ship for Millingimbi.

On 17 March 1943, F/O Shaw, P/O Freeman and members of 46 RDF Station left for Darwin to await ship for Cape Don.

On 18 March 1943, P/O John Melton Clarence McGrane (117378) left for 307 RDF Station on Peron Island by air. The balance of personnel for 307 RDF Station left Darwin by ship for Peron Island on 19 March 1943.

On 20 March 1943, F/L R.W. Wadsley left by air to inspect 39 RDF Station and returned on 25 March 1943. F/Lt Morath assumed temporary command of 44 RDF Wing.

On 22 March 1943, F/O Partington, the Equipment Officer, left by air for 38 RDF Station to repair and take spares for battery chargers.

The Air Officer Commanding flew to 38 RDF Station for an inspection on 23 March 1943. On the same day, a Ford V8 generator was loaned to 14 ARD for urgent work.

F/L R.W. Wadsley travelled to inspect 309 RDF Station at Fenton on 28 March 1943 and returned on the same day.

The remainder of 308 RDF Station personnel were instructed on 28 March 1943 to move camp from Batchelor and proceed to Millingimbi when air transport was available. They left Batchelor on 1 April 1943.

F/L R.W. Wadsley travelled to Millingimbi on 30 March 1943 for an inspection and returned on 1 April 1943.

On 31 March 1943, F/O Porter was sent to Darwin to remove Mark II equipment from 46 RDF Station for immediate installation at 38 RDF Station to improve its detection range.

Strength of 44 RDF Wing as of 31 March 1943 was:-

8 Officers

69 Airmen

On 2 April 1943, F/O Porter travelled to No. 38 RDF Station by air to install Mark II equipment.

On 3 April 1943 F/O Shaw and part of 46 RDF Station personnel sailed for Cape Don from Darwin. F/L R.W. Wadsley travelled to Goulburn Islands to 309 RDF Station on the same day.

S.A.S.O. and A.R.O. travelled to Drysdale on 4 April 1943 and selected a site for 317 RDF Station. Mark 1 gear from 38 RDF Station was sent o 46 RDF Station on the same day.

On 5 April 1943, F/O Henry Arnold Wolff (255653) went to No. 1 R.&S.U. to supervise the installation of I.F.F. equipment.

On 7 April 1943, P/O Freeman and the balance of 46 RDF Station personnel departed with technical equipment to Cape Don.

On 8 April 1943, F/Lt C.F. Morath and F/O Partington travelled to Nos 31, 109 and 132 RDF Stations on inspections. A concert was held in the Airmen’s Mess on 8 April 1943. In attendance were 44 RDF Wing personnel, visiting artists from North Western Area and personnel from No. 11 Signals Unit whose camp was nearby.

On 9 April 1943, F/Lt R.W. Wadsley and the Works Officer travelled to Millingimbi and also to Wessel Island in connection with No. 312 RDF Station. F/Lt Morath assumed temporary command of 44 RDF Wing.

On 13 April 1943, F/O Porter travelled by air to No. 307 RDF Station for an inspection. He found that the Station was performing well and had settled in to its new site. He returned the same day. Avron Anson DJ322 arrived Batchelor from the south and was attached to 6 Communications Flight for calibration of RDF Stations.

On 14 April 1943, F/O Roy Edgar Abbott (264204) visited No. 317 RDF Station at Drysdale.

On 15 April 1943, F/O Raymond Matthew Ryan (264741) travelled to No. 38 RDF Station by air for an inspection.

No. 309 RDF Station closed own on 16 April 1943, in readiness for their move to North Goulburn Island. On 17 April 1943, spares from 309 RDF Station were flown to 38 RDF Station to make urgent repairs.

On 18 April 1943, No. 46 RDF Station established W/T Communication with No. 52 O.B. F/O Ryan and P/O Jordan arrived by air from No. 38 RDF Station to effect repairs to gear. The Station was off the air. P/O O’Brien was temporarily Commanding No. 38 RDF Station.

An air raid alarm was raised at 1000 hours on 19 April 1943. No Japanese aircraft were sighted.

On 20 April 1943, F/O Ryan and P/O Jordan departed for No. 38 RDF Station by air. Camoufleur, Mr. Adams, returned from No. 107 RDF Station by air. He reported that camouflage positions were generally satisfactory but work on tracks was still proceeding. No. 38 RDF Station was operational again at 1800 hours.

F/Lt R.W. Wadsley returned from Millingimbi on 21 April 1943 at 1730 hours.

On 22 April 1943, advice was received from ARO that 312 RDF Station was departing Horn Island for North Western Area at 2300Z hours. They arrived Wessel Island on approximately 25 April 1943.

Transportation of 309 RDF Station to North Goulburn Island by ship by the end of April 1943 was arranged on 22 April 1943.

Work on towers for No. 224 RDF Station resumed on 23 April 1943 after suspension due to the wet season.

On 24 April 1943, P/O Arthur Robert Williams (37263) and P/O Patrick Carroll Lysaght (266630) left by air for 307 RDF Station. P/O Williams was on a ration and administration inspection and returned the same day. P/O Lysaght remained on administrative and defence duties. D.R.D.F. Wing Commander Alfred George Pither (O323) arrived by air at 1600 hours on 24 April 1943.

D.R.D.F. spent 25 April 1943, carrying out an inspection of 44 RDF Wing and expressed satisfaction with the organisation and administration.

On 26 April 1943, D.R.D.F., A.R.O. and C.O. inspected Nos 31, 109 and 224 RDF Stations.

On 27 April 1943, F/Lt Gray of 1 RIMU reported at 1700 hours to check the site chosen for No. 224 (ACO) RDF Station.

No. 46 RDF Station was made operational on 28 April 1943.

On 29 April 1943, F/O Porter departed by air at 0400 hours to visit 312 RDF Station at Millingimbi. He was delayed at Millingimbi due to bad weather. He returned to 44 RDF Wing at 18000 hours on 1 May 1943.

D.R.D.F. and A.R.O. travelled to 308 RDF Station at Millingimbi by air on 30 April 1943.

The first aircraft plots were received by No. 5 Fighter Sector Headquarters (5 FSHQ) from No. 46 RDF Station on 1 May 1943.

Wing Commander Alfred George Pither (D.R.D.F.) (O323) and F/Lt Alan Charles Gray (82066) left for Melbourne by service aircraft at 0430 hours local time on 2 May 1943. There was an air raid on Darwin on the same day. 50 – 60 Japanese aircraft were intercepted by Spitfire Squadrons. Excellent interception ranges were obtained by RDF Stations on Japanese aircraft which allowed ample warning to be given to 5 FSHQ. No. 309 RDF Station left Darwin by ship headed for North Goulburn Island.

P/O Arthur Robert Williams (37263) departed by air for No. 317 RDF Station for an inspection on 3 May 1943 and returned on 6 May reporting that the site and barracks were satisfactory but not yet operational.

F/Lt Rex Wright Wadsley (252244) left for No. 38 RDF Station by air on 7 May 1943 and returned on 10 May. F/Lt Clement Francis Morath (262460) again assumed Command of 44 RDF Wing in his absence. No. 224 RDF Station departed Sydney for Adelaide enroute NWA.

There was a Japanese air raid on Millingimbi on 9 May 1943. Good warning was given by No. 308 RDF Station.

Air raid alarm was raised from 1150 hours to 1215 hours on 11 May 1943. No Japanese aircraft were sighted. A report was received of an attack on ship Islander while it was unloading equipment at Wessel Island for No. 312 RDF Station. A Japanese floatplane was shot down by a Beaufighter and no damage or casualties were suffered by the RDF Station.

On 12 May 1943, F/O Frederick Harold Porter (264738) and Camofleur, Mr. Adams), departed by air for No. 312 RDF Station to assist with installations.

An air raid alarm was raised at 1200 hours on 13 May 1943. No Japanese aircraft were sighted.

P/O Edgar James Bass (117352) left by air to take over as Commanding Officer of 39 RDF Station on 14 May 1943. Wing Commander Primrose and Squadron Leader Woodman, the new C.O. of 5 FSHQ, visited 44 RDF Wing.

On 15 May 1943, the P.M.O., Area Education Officer and the Commanding Officer departed by air to visit No. 38 RDF Station. F/L Clement Morath assumed temporary command. F/O Robert Henry Partington (256184) left by air to inspect equipment at No. 46 RDF Station and returned at 1600 hours on 19 May. No. 312 RDF Station became operational.

On 16 May 1943, work commenced on a sports oval in a nearby clearing. Organised sport, physical training and early morning marching had been in operation for one month and all ranks were showing noticeable improvement in physical condition.

An air raid alarm was raised on 19 May 1943. No Japanese aircraft were sighted. Thirty one men for No. 224 RDF Station reported for duty at 44 RDF Wing. The Commanding Officer returned from 38 RDF Station at 1800 hours.

On 20 May 1943, F/O Louis Edward Radclyffe (264487) left by road to take command of No. 31 RDF Station. F/O Donald Frederick Richards (265066) RDF (Air) Officer departed for a 14 day attachment to No. 2 Squadron RAAF.

On 21 May 1943, Dr. Martin, Director Operational Research Group, visited 44 RDF Wing and spent a full day instructing technical officers and obtaining data.

An air raid alert was raised at 0930 hours on 23 May 1943. Spitfires were seen attacking Japanese aircraft in the direction of Fenton. P/O Clifford Spurgeon Worboys (41139), the C.O. of No. 224 RDF Station reported to 44 RDF Wing at 1600 hours.

An air raid alert was raised at 1004 hours on 24 May 1943. No Japanese aircraft were sighted.

On 25 May 1943, the AOC visited no. 105 RDF Station.

On 26 May 1943, F/Lt Clement Morath was a member of a Field General Court Martial at nearby No. 11 Signals Unit. F/O Frederick Harold Porter (264738) RDF (Ground) Officer, departed by air for an inspection of No. 309 RDF Station.

There was a Japanese air raid on Millingimbi on 28 May 1943. There was no damage to No. 308 RDF Station and 60 miles of warning was given by this unit. AOC visited No. 46 RDF Station for an inspection.

On 29 May 1943, DH-84 Dragon A34-51 carrying F/O Frederick Harold Porter (264738) as passenger crashed in the sea 15 miles south west of Goulburn Island. The pilot, P/O John Slade (401837) was seriously injured, one passenger was killed, but F/O Porter was uninjured.

On 30 May 1943, P/O John Charles Sands (61621), Commanding Officer, No. 318 RDF Station, and 37 airmen reported to 44 RDF Wing. P/O John Hamilton Reen (67227), Commanding Officer of No. 319 RDF Station, and 38 airmen reported to 44 RDF Wing. They had no equipment or barracks gear with them. They were all billeted at 44 RDF Wing. F/O Frederick Harold Porter (264738) returned by air from Goulburn Island Mission. AOC and Area RDF Officer visited No. 39 RDF Station.

AOC and Area RDF Officer visited No. 317 RDF Station on 31 May 1943.

Unit strength on 31 May 1943 was as follows:-

9 Officers 94 Airmen

AOC and Area RDF Officer returned from their inspection of No. 317 RDF Station on 1 June 1943.

Calibration flights at 4,000 feet and 12,000 feet were completed for No. 39 RDF Station on 2 June 1943. No. 317 RDF Station was fully operational on 2 June 1943.

On 3 June 1943, advise was received at 44 RDF Wing that No. 150 RDF Station personnel and equipment had departed Laverton for North Western Area on 1 June 1943.

On 4 June 1943, P/O Harry Oliver McMichael (63115) reported from the south on posting. He was interviewed by the C.O. and S.A.O. and was then paraded to the AOC who decided that he should be posted south again in view of his youth and inexperience and unsuitability of an operational area.

A conference was held by AOC at Headquarters, NWA (57 Mile) on 5 June 1943, to discuss the problems of supply, supervision, transport facilities, defence and improvement of living conditions at isolated RDF Stations. In view of the present limited transport facilities for Wing Officers to make reasonably frequent inspections, and the spread of these stations from Wessel Island to Drysdale in WA, it was decided by the OAC to request amendments to the Wing establishment to provide for a Flight Lieutenant Administrative Officer on seven of these stations. Normally these Officers were to command and were to give particular attention to the defence, barracks conditions, roads, administration and discipline of those units. The following attended this conference:-

A.O.C. S.O.A. S.O.P. S.O. Org. P.M.O. Area Transport Officer Movements Officer Equipment Officer S/Ldr Yeoman (61 Works Wing) F/Lt Wadsley F/Lt Morath F/O Partington (44 RDF Wing)

On 5 June 1943, Nos 318 RDF Station and 319 RDF Station departed from Wing Headquarters for their sites at Batchelor and Fenton respectively.

On 6 June 1943, F/Lt Clement Morath and F/O Robert Partington inspected works at new No. 31 RDF Station site near Darwin. The RDF tower had reached the 81 foot level.

On 7 June 1943, C.O. and F/Lt Morath inspected No. 319 RDF Station at Fenton where a temporary camp had been erected. Positions for buildings and equipment were decided. They also inspected the fixed site for No. 150 RDF Station near Adelaide River, which was about 5 miles NE of Adelaide River Railway Station. They called in at the USAAF’s 380th Bomb Group and arranged details regarding personnel (Radio Countermeasures RCM aircrew) serving with the 319th Bomb Squadron. This RCM work was performed in combination with Section 22 in GHQ SWPA in Brisbane. They became part of FU15 or Field Unit 15 of Section 22.

On 8 June 1943, telephone communications with No. 318 RDF Station was established through 18 Squadron NEIAF at Batchelor. Calibration flights from Batchelor controlled by F/O Ryan were continued with Avro Anson DJ 322 piloted by P/O Jenkins and navigator P/O Kenneth George Brinkman (401892).

On 9 June 1943, C.O., F/Lt Morath and P/O Worboys inspected Nos. 31, 109 and 132 RDF Stations and works at No. 224 RDF Station site. The transmitter tower for 224 RDF Station was at the 55 foot level and progress with other buildings was fair.

On 10 June 1943, advice was received that Sgt. Alfred Edward Woodnutt, (20750) a guard, had been awarded the British Empire Medal B.E.M. for the rescue of aircrew off Cape Fourcroy on 31 December 1942 while he was serving with No. 38 RDF Station. This was after a Beaufighter crashed into the sea near Cape Fourcroy.

S/Ldr Davies from RAAF Command visited 44 RDF Wing on 10 June 1943.

The C.O. and the Works Officer inspected No. 105 RDF Station at Point Charles on 11 June 1943.

On 11 June 1943, W.O.A.G. Sgt Joseph Holohan (412532) was reported missing presumed killed in a USAAF B-24 Liberator #42-40500 “Careless” of the 531st Bomb Squadron of the 380th Bomb Group lost in the Timor Sea. Sgt Holohan was on RCM duties as a member of FU15 of Section 22. This was the first 380th BG aircraft and the first 380th BG crew to be lost in combat. Holohan had lost a coin toss with Dick Dakeyne to fly in this aircraft.

USAAF B-24 Liberator #42-40500 “Careless” of the 531st Bomb Squadron

On 12 June 1943, P/O D.H. Hibbins (63098) (RDF Ground) was appointed to command No. 105 RDF Station.

The North West Area Allied Services Surf Carnival was held on a beach near Darwin on 13 June 1943. 44 RDF Wing won one event and was placed in another event for the RAAF.

On 14 June 1943, W/Cdr Rickard (Area Equipment Officer) inspected 44 RDF Wing equipment stores and expressed surprise and satisfaction at provisions made for storage and handling of all equipment.

On 16 June 1943, C.O. and Area RDF Officer visited Nos. 31 and 132 RDF Stations and 5 Fighter Sector Headquarters on inspection.

On 17 June 1943, 39 airmen with a portion of No. 321 RDF Station equipment arrived by road at Adelaide River. It was then transported to 44 RDF Wing Headquarters at 58½ mile to await transport to Cape Arnhem. An air raid alarm was raised from 0923 to 0950 hours. It was a Japanese reconnaissance aircraft. There was no interception carried out. E.O. and Assistant E.O. travelled to Nos. 31, 109 and 132 RDF Stations on inspection.

On 18 June 1943, the Commanding Officer departed by air for No. 317 RDF Station and returned at 1730 hours on 22 June. P/O Campbell was detailed to command No. 132 RDF Station.

On 20 June 1943, there were Japanese air raids on Darwin from 1035 hours to 1115 hours. Excellent RDF warning were given by 44 RDF Wing Stations. Spitfires claimed 12 kills, 10 probables and we lost 3 aircraft. It was a heavy raid and there was some Japanese aircraft action in the vicinity of Nos, 31, 109 and 132 RDF Stations Nine low flying Japanese aircraft came in at tree top level within 200 yards of the new RDF tower at Lee Point. It was thought that they were Dinahs fitted with bomb bays. There was no damage to RDF installations.

On 22 June 1943, Area RDF Officer, F/O Porter and F/O Wolff visited 319 RDF Station at Fenton and the 380th Bomb Group on inspections. The latter inspection was in connection with airborne R.D.F. equipment.

On 23 June 1943, Senior Administrative Officer and F/O Ryan went to Nos. 31 and 132 RDF Stations and 5 Fighter Sector Headquarters on inspection. They also checked progress at the Lee Point installation where the tower was completed and they arranged the locations for the buildings.

On 23 June 1943, F/O Lysaght left by air for No. 312 RDF station at Wessel Island to take command.

On 23 June 1943, Sgt. John Alexander Graham (414374) went missing believed killed on RDF duties in B-24 Liberator #41-23688 “Pelly-Can” of the 380th Bomb Group, USAAF from Fenton Airfield over Japanese occupied territory. Sgt. Graham was attached as a member of FU15 of Section 22. Captain Roy W. Olsen, the C.O. of the 319th Bomb Squadron was killed in the same aircraft. “Pelly-Can” was rammed in the left wing from behind by a Japanese Naval liaison B5M1 (mis-identified as a Ki-27 Nate). ”Pelly-Can” lost its wing and both aircraft entered flat spins down into the water with no survivors.

Photo:- Bob Livingstone Collection

Ground crew of the “Nose Turret & Tunnel Gun Project” at Fenton Airfield
who performed modifications to B-24 Liberator #41-23688 “Pelly-Can”

On 23 June 1943, acting F/Lt Lucas departed by air for 38 RDF Station at Bathurst to take command.

On 24 June 1943, No. 319 RDF Station at Fenton became operational at 0800 hours and was passing its plots to 10 Mobile Fighter Sector. P/O Fitzgerald was sent to 380th Bomb Group at Fenton to adjust the affairs of the late Sgts. Holohan and Graham.

On 25 June 1943, S/Ldr Gerald Kingston Kestell Buscombe (116), 3 Officers and 4 Airmen from 5 Fighter Sector Headquarters visited for procedural discussions.

The Equipment Officer departed for 9 Stores Depot at Gorrie on 27 June 1943 to check equipment supplies position. He returned on 29 June. Satisfactory arrangements were made with W/Cdr Lawson. 44 RDF Wing was to supply an experienced RDF mechanic to 9 Stores Depot to assist with the identification of parts.

On 27 June 1943, P/O Hughes and 57 men arrived by road from the south for No. 150 RDF Station. They were quartered at 44 RDF Wing camp pending installation of the RDF Station at the Adelaide River site.

On 28 June 1943, a ship departed Darwin for No. 46 RDF Station with supplies and pay. This was the first ship to arrive since the Station arrived at Cape Don.

On 30 June 1943, G/Cpt Watson, S.O.A., S/Ldr Sewell S.O.P. and S/Ldr Wells, S.O. NWA HQs visited 44 RDF Wing Headquarters on inspection. Staff Officer Administration expressed satisfaction at administration and organisation of 44 RDF Wing generally. There was a heavy Japanese air raid in the Fenton area on the same day. There were 27 Japanese bombers and 21 Zeros. First report indicated that we had destroyed 14 Japanese aircraft and lost 6 of our own aircraft.

On 1 July 1943 F/Lt C.F. Morath and Area RDF Officer travelled to No. 307 Radar Station on Peron Island by air for an inspection. The Station was performing well, but camouflage arrangements were deteriorating. Some work was put in hand immediately and arrangements were made on 2 July for a Camofleur and two Airmen to travel to the island within a week. Mr. Corke departed Darwin by ship on 5 July for Peron Island and completed his camouflage improvements by the end of July 1943.

Also on 1 July 1943, P/O Fitzgerald (Equipment) was sent to No. 39 RDF Station at Port Keats for inspection of Stores. F/Lt G. Day arrived by air from 1 Radio Installation and Maintenance Unit (1 RIMU) to check equipment at No. 132 RDF Station.

On 2 July 1943, Mr. T.E. Edwards of the Operational Research Group visited 44 RDF Wing regarding suspected Searchlight interference with RDF Station.

On 3 July 1943, F/Lt Morath, F/O Wolff and Area RDF Officer inspected signals setup at 18 Squadron NEI-AF at Batchelor Airfield. They also inspected the adjacent No. 318 RDF Station. The Station was in excellent condition and performing well. They congratulated the Commanding Officer, P/O Sands.

Mr Adams, the Camoufleur arrived at 44 RDF Wing on 3 July 1943 by B-25 Mitchell from Millingimbi after being at Wessell Island awaiting transport for 6 weeks! Her reported that camouflage arrangements at No. 312 RDF Station on Wessel Island and No. 308 RDF Station at Millingimbi were satisfactory.

The Commanding Officer and F/O Ryan travelled to 5 FSHQ at Darwin on 4 July 1943 to discuss a suspected RDF “blackout”. P/O Worboys was appointed to command No. 109 RDF Station.

A cricket match was played on a pitch made on a clearing near 44 RDF Wing Headquarters on 4 July 1943. Clearing work for the pitch was carried out by Officers and Airmen during their “sport” periods.

A heavy Japanese air raid in the Fenton area on 6 July 1943 involved 22 bombers and 8 Zeros.

Telephone connections with No. 319 RDF Station was established through RAAF Signals Detachment at Fenton on 6 July 1943.

44 RDF Wing Officers commenced a series of lectures to Fighter Sector personnel in Darwin on 6 July 1943. Commanding Officer and Senior Administrative Officer went to 10 Mobile Fighter Sector and F/O Ryan and F/O Jordan went to 5 FSHQ.

On 7 July 1943, P/O Hibbens was detailed to command No. 105 RDF Station replacing F/Lt Clifton Meredith Napthine (251839) who was posted to 58 Operational Base Unit (58 OBU) to take command.

The first Australian Rules match was played on 44 RDF Wing’s oval on 7 July 1943. An American Concert Party was performed at 58 Mile clearing that night.

On 9 July 1943, the Area Defence Officer, Lt. Col. Cannon, and the Commanding Officer, of the Security Guards Unit visited regarding guard matters, such as transport, exchanges, kit, etc.

44 RDF Wing Swimming Carnival was held at Adelaide River on 10 July 1943. F/O Raymond Matthew Ryan (264741) won the championship.

On 12 July 1943, F/Lt Morath and F/O Partington inspected 105 RDF Station at Point Charles. Several alterations and improvements to buildings had commenced. Attendance by the Camoufleur was arranged. Station performance was hampered by a shortage of spares for the American SCR 268 equipment, but it was performing effectively.

On 12 July 1943, the Commanding Officer departed by air to visit No. 309 RDF Station at North Goulburn Island. He returned by air on 18 July. F/Lt Morath assumed command during his absence.

Lectures at 5 FSHQ and 10 Mobile Fighter Sector continued in Darwin at 2130 hours on 13 July 1943.

On 13 July 1943, F/Lt Day departed by air for 1 Radio Installation & Maintenance Unit via Brisbane. F/Lt Goode, RDF Officer for the Army visited 44 RDF Wing on 13 July.

A concert was held at 44 RDF Wing at 1945 hours on 14 July 1943. It was attended by visitors from all adjacent units.

On 16 July 1943, a Muster Parade was held and instruction in fire fighting and handling of incendiary bombs was given to all ranks.

A Japanese reconnaissance aircraft was shot down over Darwin on 18 July 1943 after excellent plots by RDF Stations. F/O Jordan departed for No. 308 RDF Station by air for an inspection on 18 July and returned on 20 July.

On 18 July 1943, the Air Officer Commanding NWA released a Walrus Flying Boat to call at No. 312 RDF Station with mail and supplies and to pick up a medical case.

The Senior Administrative Officer went to No. 150 RDF Station site at Adelaide River on 18 July 1943 to check the camp position and supply arrangements. Buildings were to be pre-fabricated and erected onsite by the Station personnel. S/Ldr Kirkman of 10 Mobile Fighter Sector visited 44 RDF Wing on 18 July 1943.

On 19 July 1943, the Commanding Officer and the Senior Administrative Officer, visited NWA Headquarters at 57 Mile to meet the new Air Officer Commanding, Air Vice Marshall Adrian Cole (4). On the same day, W/Cdr Phipps (D.M.S.) visited 44 RDF Wing regarding transport facilities to remote RDF Stations. Use of a flying boat was considered essential.

On 19 July 1943, F/O Richards was sent to Hughes to install an A.S.V. beacon.

A signal was received from 121 Australian General Hospital on 21 July 1943, that Sgt. Richard Bower Dakeyne (421181) (W.O.A.G.) was injured at Winnellie by enemy action on 20 July and he was admitted to Hospital that day with injuries to his hand.

On 21 July 1943, arrangements were made with 39 Zone Filter Centre to handle plots from Nos. 308, 309, and 312 RDF Stations and to send filtered tracks to 5 FSHQ in Darwin.

On 21 July 1943, the Commanding Officer inspected Lee Point installation. The power supply and turning gear were operating.

On 22 July 1943, F/O Ryan was sent to command No. 132 RDF Station after P/O Campbell was admitted to 1 Medical Receiving Station. P/O Campbell was discharged on 1 August and resumed command of No. 132 RDF Station.

On 22 July 1943, F/O Grahame and 22 Airmen departed by air from Batchelor for Millingimbi en route to No. 321 RDF Station site at Yirrkala in the Cape Arnhem area.

On 22 July 1943, S/Ldr Galvin, the Commanding Officer of 10 Mobile Fighter Sector and Mr. T.E. Edwards of the Operational Research Group, flew to No. 39 RDF Station at Port Keats to investigate unusual W/T interference.

On 23 July 1943, F/O W. K. Clarke returned from Millingimbi after A.S.V. Beacon became operational.

On 26 July 1943, F/O Fitzgerald was sent to No. 317 RDF Station by air on a stores and equipment inspection.

Advice was received from RAAF Headquarters on 27 July 1943, that an RDF Conference was to be held in Melbourne on 23 August 1943. Lectures to 5 FSHQ and 10 Mobile Fighter Sector were completed on 27 July 1943. Copies of 44 RDF Wing’s Technical Instructions were sent to 41 RDF Wing for their information and copies of Administrative Instructions were received from 41 RDF Wing.

R.W.G. equipment for No. 132 RDF Station arrived by ship in Darwin on 27 July 1943.

On 28 July 1943, the Area RDF Officer travelled by air to No. 38 RDF Station on an inspection. The Air Officer Commanding NWA HQs visited 44 RDF Wing Headquarters at 58 ½ Mile on 28 July 1943 and expressed surprise at the size and scope of 44 RDF Wing. AOC obtained details of RDF coverage in the area and stated that it was satisfactory. There were 14 operational Stations and 3 in the course of erection. 44 RDF Wing played football against the Army Signals and won 8 / 10 to 6 / 18.

On 30 July 1943, P/O Oakes and three Airmen departed for Darwin with No. 321 RDF Station’s technical equipment for shipment to Yirrkala via Millingimbi.

Unit strength on 31 July 1943 was as follows:-

14 Officers 106 Airmen

On 1 August 1943, P/O Oakes, No. 321 RDF Station Technical Officer, and three Airmen departed with technical equipment by ship from Darwin for a site at Yirrkala. There were also other Airmen and equipment on board for Nos. 308 and 312 RDF Stations. 44 RDF Wing Headquarters defeated 31 Squadron at football by 2 points and was defeated by 18 Squadron NEI-AF at cricket by 46 runs.

On 2 August 1943, F/O Jordan was sent by air to No. 38 RDF Station to assist with maintenance as the Station was off the air. The Station resumed operations on 5 August and F/O Jordan returned on 6 August 1943.

On 2 August 1943, 50 Airmen started the 3rd class in Combat Training held at 44 RDF Wing.

On 3 August 1943, F/O Partington, the Equipment Officer, was admitted to No. 1 Medical Receiving Station (1 MRS) and was discharged on 20 August 1943. During that period he received advice on 4 August that he was posted to 55 Operational Base Unit effective 30 August 1943 then onto to 1 Embarkation Depot.

On 5 August 1943, Roman Catholic Chaplin Nowlan visited 44 RDF Wing and celebrated mass at 0700 hours on 6 August for the first time.

On 6 August 1943, the steamship “Macumba” was sunk by the Japanese in the Arafura Sea. It was carrying 15 cases of equipment for No. 44 RDF Wing.

A report was received from the 380th Bomb Group USAAF, that Sgt. John Joseph Hardacre (414350) W.O.A.G., on attachment to the 319th Bomb Squadron, had been recommended for Service Awards,

On 8 August 1943, No. 105 RDF Station received a visit from the Governor General, General Officer Commanding and Air Officer Commanding. 44 RDF Wing Headquarters defeated Headquarters, North Western Area by 90 runs in a cricket game.

A second telephone line was installed from 44 RDF Wing to North Western Area on 9 August to cope with increased traffic. Telephone communications by then had been established with:-

31 RDF Station 109 RDF Station 132 RDF Station 318 RDF Station (via 18 Squadron NEI-AF) 319 RDF Station (via 380th Bomb Group, USAAF)

On 10 August 1943, the main buildings for No. 150 RDF Station had been completed at Adelaide River. The site was taken over from 61 Works Wing on 11 August 1943.

On 10 August 1943, the Commanding Officer went to Nos. 31, 109 and 132 RDF Stations with F/O Jordan (Maintenance) and F/O Miller (Equipment). During the C.O.’s absence, F/Lt Morath assumed temporary command until the C.O. returned on 11 August.

On 10 August 1943, special instructions were given in hygiene and defence training on the C.O.’s parade. Weekly inspection of respirators were instituted in conjunction with barracks inspections.

A Zone Filter Room was established at 59 OBU at Millingimbi to receive plots from Nos. 308, 309 and 312 RDF Stations. Advice was received from 5 FSHQs that two Spitfires had show down two Japanese float planes as a result of plots received from these three RDF Stations.

A full scale fire practice was held at 44 RDF Wing on 10 August 1943 using an adjacent bush fire as a test. Equipment and training was satisfactory. Advice was received that No. 321 RDF Station personnel and equipment was all now onsite at Yirrkala.

On 11 August 1943, F/O Hector Lumsden Fenton (265459) departed by air on posting to No. 39 RDF Station on Administration duties.

A conference of all Technical Officers and S.A.O. was held on 11 August 1943 with Area RDF Officer to deal with the agenda for the RDF Conference to be held in Melbourne on 23 August. The conference continued on evenings of 12 and 15 August. Suggestions from 44 RDF Wing were handed to the Area RDF Officer to place before the conference, including suggested variations to the Establishment.

On 12 August 1943, F/O Norman George Nilsen (O33037) departed by air to take command of No. 38 RDF Station on Bathurst Island. Also on 12 August P/O L.V. McCann (42136) (RDF) was posted to RAAF Command for attachment to Section 22.

On 13 August 1943, the new Airmen’s Recreation Hut was opened with a concert. Officers from NWA HQs, 11 Signals Unit, and 6 Communication Flight attended as guests. Two Japanese air raids interrupted the concert. The first “Red” Alert was from 2115 hours until 2205 hours. The second “Red” alert was from 2255 hours until 0014 hours on 14 August 1943. Fenton and Coomalie areas were bombed. Japanese aircraft and bombing were seen clearly in both areas but there was no damage at 44 RDF Wing.

On 17 August 1943, four Japanese reconnaissance aircraft were set over the Darwin and Fenton areas separately. They were tracked excellently by RDF Stations and all were shot down. A signal of congratulations was sent to Stations responsible.

A list of suggested amendments to the Establishment and other matters for discussion were handed over to the Area RDF Officer on 17 August 1943 for submission to the RDF Conference in Melbourne.

On 18 August 1943, power plants, transmitter and receiver and sundry equipment moved by road from 44 RDF Wing Headquarters to No. 223 RDF Station at 36 Mile.

On 19 August 1943, the Commanding Officer and Works Officer departed by air for No. 317 RDF Station via Drysdale, WA to check proposed site on Graham Moore Island. They returned by air at 1900 hours on 24 August. F/Lt Morath assumed temporary command during the C.O.s absence.

On 20 August 1943, the Area RDF Officer departed by air for the RDF Conference in Melbourne. F/Lt R.M. Ryan C.T.O. was appointed acting A.R.D.F. Officer during his absence.

On 21 August 1943, the Japanese carried out three air raids between 0225 and 0425 hours on Fenton, Pell and Coomalie Creek. The nearest bombs fell approximately 3 miles from 44 RDF Wing Headquarters at 58 ½ Mile.

No. 321 RDF Station at Yirrkala advised by signal on 21 August 1943 that the site had become operational at 2330Z hours on 20 August. A Federal Election Poll was conducted at 44 RDF Wing HQs on 21 August. 44 RDF Wing won the RAAF Northern Zone Athletic Competition on 21 August.

On 22 August 1943, No. 109 RDF Station closed down at 1400 hours to supply urgent spares to No. 105 RDF Station. Personnel were detailed for duty as Lee Point C.O.L. Station which was nearing completion and the SCR 268 equipment was brought to 44 RDF Wing HQs at 58 ½ Mile.

No. 39 Zone Filter Centre was formed at Millingimbi on 23 August 1943 to handle plots from Nos. 308, 309, 312 and 321 RDF Stations.

On 25 August 1943, the Commanding Officer and Works Officer departed for Melville Island by ship to locate a site for proposed C.O.L. Station. They returned at 2130 hours on 2 September. As usual, F/Lt Morath assumed command during the C.O.’s absence.

On 27 August 1943, F/O McGrane arrived from No. 307 RDF Station by air to take over command of No. 318 RDF Station. F/O Richards returned to 44 RDF Wing HQs.

On 27 August 1943, all personnel from No. 109 RDF Station transferred to Lee Point C.O.L. Station. F/O Hughes was detailed to command temporarily.

On 28 August 1943, R.I.M.U. (possibly No. 1 RIMU) Calibration Flight aircraft Avro Anson AX441, with F/Lt A.E. Grey, F/O Moody and 3 O.R.s arrived from N.E.A.

On 30 August 1943, F/O C.H. Bell and party reported from 1 RIMU to install aerials at No. 224 RDF Station. F/Lt Grey and F/O Ryan departed for 5FSHQ to arrange calibration program.

On 31 August 1943, it was arranged for 6 Communications Flight to despatch special aircraft to drop S & C Publications at Nos 312 and 321 RDF Stations as there was no transport available to make Safe Hand despatches and there were no airfields near either Station.

On 1 September 1943, P/O John Hamilton Reen (67227) Radar and eight Airmen left by ship for No. 46 Radar Station (Note:- This is the first use of the term “Radar Station” instead of “RDF Station” in the ORB and “44 RDF Wing” has changed to “44 Radar Wing”). Quarterly suggested amendments to the Wing Establishment were forwarded to HQs NWA. Many of the alterations suggested had a nett saving of personnel. The weekly stand down for all Officers at 44 Radar Wing Headquarters was reduced to one half day per week due to the pressure of work.

On 2 September 1943, a siting report recommending the site for the C.O.L. Station on Cape Van Dieman was forwarded to Air Officer Commanding. Wing personnel watched the film “Battle of Britain” with great enthusiasm.

On 3 September 1943, Mr. T.E. Edwards, Operational Research Group, was sent by air to No. 309 Radar Station to investigate suspected submarine plots. He returned on 11 September with an affirmative report.

On 4 September 1943, Church Services were held at 44 Radar Wing at 58 ½ Mile for National Day of Prayer.

On 4 September 1943, telephone communication with No. 224 Radar Station was established.

On 4 September 1943, S/Ldr Pentland and F/Lt Fenton of Calibration Flight reported from North Eastern Area. The Area Radar Officer called and reported on the Conference held at Melbourne.