LANCASTER SQUADRON

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25852, 24 May 1945, Page 6

LANCASTER SQUADRON

CARRYING RELEASED PRISONERS (Rec. 10.30 p.m.) LONDON, May 22. Adding their -share to the large volume of air traffic between the Continent and England, Lancaster bombers of No. 75 New Zealand Squadron are carrying many hundreds of prisoners of war from despatch centres in Germany to the busiest “ bus stop ” in Britain, Westcott, Aylesbury. Called off dropping food supplies to the Dutch in northern Holland, the squadron has this week assisted wiki the conveyance of prisoners from all parts of the Continent, and nearly all the aircraft utilised are flying up to three trips a day. Yesterday was one of distinction, when air crews landed in England New Zealand prisoners. Thus has the New Zealand bomber squadron provided the climax to an eventful career by returning safely its own countrymen. As 24 men left the Lancasters their reaction to the thrill of arriving was typical of all the others. They looked almost bewildered as they clambered from the hatch and stood in oddly-assorted uniforms, gazing about them at the grass and hedgerows. They entered various aircraft of the squadron three hours earlier at Theine. Immediately they are in England every consideration is given by the authorities. At Westcott, a large hangar has just been converted into a reception hall, with a Union Jack over the entrance and a banner across the middle ways, “Welcome to Westcott.” The New Zealand airmen returned are issued with kits almost immediately, and after the necessary formalities at the reception depot at Brighton are given leave, for which many schemes are available. Provision has been made for airmen desirous of obtaining experience and attending courses in England particular to peace-time occupation. To this extent Flight Lieutenant A. C. Arnesen, who was recently appointed to R.N.Z.A.F. headquarters in London for educational guidance, has the details of opportunities. The former prisoners are already making use of these facilities.