DAILY DIARY
26 RADIO DETACHMENT - LANGARA ISLAND, BC
January 1, 1944 to December 31, 1944
1 Jan 44
Weather: Clear and calm with bright sunshine, about an inch and a half of snow covered the ground having fallen during the night. A fine turkey dinner was served up in the mess hall and a movie was shown at 2000 hrs PWT in the recreation hall.
2 Jan 44
Weather: Calm with periods of bright sunshine and then clouding over at times when sleet and rain showers fell. Haida Girl arrived from Massett at approximately 2000 hr PWT. An attempt was made to unload it but it was found to be too treacherous in the dark and only the mail and films were removed. The Haida Girl departed for Henslung at 2030 PWT. A movie was shown at 2100 hrs PWT in the Rec hall.
3 Jan 44
Weather: Cooler and cloudy with slight west wind and occasional showers of rain and sleet. The Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1000 hrs PWT and the rations were unloaded. It departed for Massett at 1300 hrs PWT with nine airmen aboard who were going out on posting. The second film was shown at 2000 hours PWT in the Recreation hall.
4 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, north west wind. Rain started in early morning hours and continued quite steadily all day. Wind grew steadily stronger to gale proportions by 1600 hrs, when it was found necessary to tie down the gantry for a time.
5 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy with occasional showers, south east wind. Haida Girl arrived from Massett at 1745 hrs PWT carrying supplies and the quarterly overhaul crew of six airmen, also two airmen returning from leave and one airman on posting. They also carried a new rowboat and motor which brought in eight of the airmen in two trips. The old rowboat was used to bring in one load of supplies but the sea became heavier and captized the boat on the rocks throwing the two airmen rowing it out on the rocks. One was washed back into the sea but managed to climb back into the rowboat which was swept into the gut with the next wave and finally brought into shore after much effort. The baggage of the overhaul crew which remained in the boat was throroughly drenched. It was decided to stop any more attempts at unloading and the Haida Girl departed for Henslung at 1900 hrs, PWT.
6 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, strong west wind and showers. The station went off the air at 0900 hrs when the overhaul crew went to work. Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1130 hrs PWT. Two loads of supplies were brought off, but further attempts to unload were abandoned when the rowboat was nearly washed onto the rocks on the second trip. The Haida Girl departed for Henslung at 1315 hrs PWT.
7 Jan 44
Weather: Clear with bright sunshine and calm. Terrific gale during the night and sea so heavy the Haida Girl did not come up from Henslung. Quarterly Overhaul continued.
8 Jan 44
Weather: Clear, light west wind. Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1230 hrs PWT. The remaining supplies were removed with some difficulty in a fairly heavy seas. Two W/T desks were brought in on a scow. A very serious accident occurred on the last trip which fortunately, had no serious results. As the boat with the two oarsmen and two barrels of oil aboard, was being brought in, the lifting cable of the hoist snapped and the boat and cargo dropped twelve feet back into the sea, capsizing the boat and spilling its load. The oarsmen swam to the scow and from it got a line on the overturned boat which was then hauled to safety. Another boat was put out and lines fixed to the oil barrels which were also hauled ashore. The outboard motor was broken off from the boat but later retrieved also. The Haida Girl and Sea Mew (the latter having come in from Henslung about 1300 hrs PWT for rations and exchange of seamen) both returned to Henslung at 1545 hrs PWT. At 1700 hrs a signal was received from the Sea Mew that her motors had stopped off Egeria Bay. The Haida Girl had arrived at Henslung at about that time and it was despatched to the aid of the Sea Mew. Both boats got back to Henslung at approximately 2000 hrs PWT.
9 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, stiff east wind. Rain commenced at 1630 hrs but the sky cleared by 2000 hrs. Haida Girl departed from Henslung to Massett at 1400 hrs PWT for refuelling.
10 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy with occasional showers, strong east wind all day blowing up to a gale at 1800 hrs. Work almost completed on the overhaul with the equipment being put into operation for tests but not for regular searching.
11 Jan 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with strong east wind during the day, occasional showers. About 1700 hrs PWT the wind suddenly changed to the west and grew to gale proportions. During the early morning a tree was blown across the power line near Raft Bay, necessitating shutting the power off and switching from F/M communication to the AT3. The difficulty was remedied during the day and at 2000 hrs PWT the F/M was put into use again and the station went on the air operational after the quarterly overhaul.
12 Jan 44
Weather: Clear, east wind. Haida Girl arrived from Massett at 1130 hrs carrying mail and one airman returning from leave. Haida Girl departed for Massett at 1430 PWT carrying the six men of the quarterly overhaul party.
13 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, west wind and rain all day. No unusual occurences.
14 Jan 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, calm, occasional showers. No unusual occurrences.
15 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, light north east wind with occasional showers. No unusual occurrences.
16 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, calm, fine drizzling rain greater part of the day. Haida Girl arrived from Massett at 1730 hrs PWT bringing mail and supplies, 8 airmen returning from leave and 3 on posting in. The mail, passengers, and part of the supplies were unloaded, but work had to cease due to darkness and the Haida Girl departed for Henslung at 1930 PWT.
17 Jan 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, cool, light west wind with occasional showers. Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1100 hrs and work was begun on unloading the remainder of the supplies and loading empty drums. This was completed by 1700 hrs PWT and the Haida Girl departed for Henslung bearing 78 empty drums to be left there for fuel storage. A movie was shown in the rec hall at 2000 hrs.
18 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, strong west wind and showers. Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1545 PWT and was loaded with bottle returns for Prince Rupert. It departed for Massett at 1630 hrs PWT. Three airmen went out, one on leave and two on posting.
19 Jan 44
Weather: Clear, strong SW wind. No unusual occurrences.
20 Jan 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with occasional showers, strong SW wind. Work continued on the hauling in of timbers for the woodshed. Dinamac arrived Henslung with fuel oil 1200 hrs PWT.
21 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, strong NW wind. Rain and sleet showers. Haida Girl arrived at Henslung at 1500 hrs PWT. Water too rough at the dock here to attempt unloading.
22 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, showers, strong NE wind. Sea too heavy to attempt unloading the Haida Girl so it remained at Henslung all day. Word was received from the Sea Mew that they were remaining tied up in Massett due to heavy seas.
23 Jan 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, sleet showers. Strong NW wind in morning blowing up to gale proportions in late afternoon. Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1100 hrs PWT. The paymaster and one airman on posting were taken off. Too rough to unload so Haida Girl returned to Henslung at 1145 hrs PWT. A pay parade was held in the Mess Hall at 1400 hrs PWT . At 2330 hrs a distress signal was received from the Sea Mew that they were unable to keep their motor going and were being blown ashore in a heavy sea of Naden Harbour. Word was sent to the Haida Girl to go to their assistance and Prince Rupert reported two Naval Vessels going to them also. Wireless contact was maintained with the Sea Mew. Haida Girl unable to go because of heavy sea. At 1730 hrs PWT Sea Mew reported they were being washed ashore off Cape Edensaw and the crew were abandoning ship. The Naval Vessel was reported to be arriving there about midnight.
24 Jan 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with sleet storms, gale continued lessening toward evening. Haida Girl departed approximately 1200 hrs PWT to aid in rescuing crew of Sea Mew. Officer Commanding and five airmen went aboard also to help in rescue work. Word was received at the station that two of the men aboard Sea Mew were rescued by the Naval Vessel during the day but that the other airman had been drowned.
25 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy. Wind changed from NW to NE but considerably abated. Next of Kin of drowned airman and Air Force authorities notified of the accident.
26 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers. Strong NE wind. Sea very rough. No unusual occurrences.
27 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, rain greater part of the day. Strong NW wind. Haida Girl returned from Massett at 1530 hrs PWT bringing supplies of oil and the rescue party that had gone out to the Sea Mew. Sea was very heavy and the party could not disembark at the dock so the Haida Girl sailed around to Egeria Bay where the party was put to shore with considerable difficulty. They had to walk through the forest and muskeg for five miles arriving at the station about 1900 hrs. The Haida Girl put in at Henslung for the night.
28 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy with almost steady rain. West wind. Sea much calmer with some bad swells on occasion. Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1215 hrs PWT. They carried an additional row boat for the station so unloading the drums of oil and coal was greatly facilitated by using three boats. Thirty drums of fuel oil and gasoline were brought ashore which somewhat alleviates the danger of running short of fuel in the near future. Mail and some coal were also brought in. The Haida Girl returned to Henslung at 1530 hrs PWT. A new movie brought in by the Haida Girl was shown in the recreation hall at 2000 hrs PWT.
29 Jan 44
Weather: Clear, east wind. Haida Girl attempted to come up from Henslung at 1200 hrs PWT but returned there when they decided the sea was too rough.
30 Jan 44
Weather: Cloudy, showers, but calm. Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1000 hrs PWT with 22 drums of oil aboard. Some difficulty was experienced in unloaded them due to the low tide. The YMCA field man arrived on the Haida Girl having come up to Henslung on the Cape Canso from Marble Island. He is paying an official visit to this station. The Haida Girl was unloaded by 1330 hrs PWT and departed for Massett taking the paymaster as a passenger.
31 Jan 44
Weather: Cooler, west wind and showers, cloudy. The site for the new IFF tower was selected this day.
Officers on strength - 3, Other ranks on strength - 70, Other ranks attached - 1.
(HH Matheson) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
RCAF Detachment No 26,
Langara Island, BC.
1 Feb 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, mild and calm. No unusual occurrences.
2 Feb 44
Weather: Clear, mild and calm. No unusual occurrences.
3 Feb 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, showers in late afternoon. Light north wind. Haida Girl arrived from Massett at 1500 hrs PWT bearing mail, rations, canteen supplies and the rowboat M422 which had been sent out for repairs. Unloading was complete by 1830 hrs PWT and the Haida Girl departed for Massett bearing the YMCA field man. A movie was shown at 2100 hrs in the Rec Hall.
4 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy, with rain most of theday. North wind. No unusual occurrences.
5 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy with rain most of the day. Strong north wind and sea quite rough. Gale warning out. Haida Girl arrived from Massett at 1810 hrs PWT. No attempt was made to unload due to sea conditions and it departed for Henslung immediately. Word was received from Mr Peeve at Henslung that an aircraft had landed there in distress. Attempts to contact the aircraft by wireless were unavailing but Mr Peeve reported they were apparently able to ride out the storm.
6 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy, strong west wind. Water too rough for Haida Girl to come around and unload.
7 Feb 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with showers, quite calm. Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1130 hrs PWT with P/O Pollack aboard, coming in on posting. It also carried two new gasoline generating units which were unloaded with some difficulty. There was also mail and five films aboard. The Haida Girl departed for Massett at 1430 hrs PWT bearing six airmen going out on posting. This will most likely be the last trip for the Haida Girl. The personnel of this detachment are going to miss the Indian Crew who at times risked their boat and necks in order to be accomodating. A film was shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
8 Feb 44
Weather: Clear and calm. Work has been recommenced on the building of the woodshed and the foundation work completed today. A movie was shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
9 to 20 Feb 44
Pages Missing
21 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy and misty. Light west wind. A pay parade was held at 1100 hrs. F/L Walden selected a gun site for a gun it is intended to send in here. The Haida Girl arrived from Henslung at 1130 hrs. The master managed to back it right up to the dock which greatly facilitated unloading. It departed for Massett at 1300 hrs.
22 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy, strong west wind. No unusual occurrences.
23 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy, west wind. No unusual occurrences.
24 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy, west wind and occasional showers. Haida Girl arrived from Massett at 1400 hrs, bringing in canteen supplies and mail and an airman to check the refrigerators. It departed for Massett at 1630 hrs, with one airman going out on posting, three on leave and F/O Smith and F/L Walden on board.
25 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy, strong west wind about 25 mph. Nimpkish arrived at Henslung Bay at 1630 hrs PWT. Sea too rough to come around to unload.
26 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy. Cloudy. Continued wind from west. Nimpkish called around to the dock at 1100 hrs PWT. One airman coming back from leave was brought ashore. Sea too rough to attempt unloading and Nimpkish put back to Henslung.
27 Feb 44
Weather: Cloudy, with showers. Strong east wind about 30 mph. Sea too rough for the Nimpkish to come around to unload.
28 Feb 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, north wind. Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1500 hrs PWT. Sea too rough to attempt unloading but with difficulty passengers were put aboard. It departed for Massett at 1610 hrs PWT with six airmen going out on overseas posting, one airman from No 9 CMU going to Alliford Bay, three airmen going out on leave and P/O Pollock going home on compassionate leave. At 1900 hrs the Master of the Nimpkish telephoned from Henslung Bay to say that the sea was so rough they had been forced to put back to Henslung after being out about an hour and a half to await calmer weather.
29 Feb 44
Weather: Clear, slight breeze from the north and very cold, the coldest weather experienced this winter. Nimpkish arrived from Henslung at 0920 hrs PWT to pick up another airman going out on compassionate leave. It departed for Massett at 0940 hrs PWT. Sea quite calm.
Officers on strength - 3, Other ranks on strength - 68, Other ranks attached - 1.
(HH Matheson) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
RCAF Detachment No 26,
Langara Island, BC.
1 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy, slight breeze. No unusual occurrences.
2 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers. Stiff wind from east, sea fairly rough. No unusual occurrences.
3 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers. Strong east wind and sea quite rough. Nimpkish reported they were lying over night in Massett awaiting calmer weather.
4 Mar 44
Weather: Clear and calm but quite cold. Sea very calm. Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1300 hrs with rations, canteen supplies, shingles, diesel fuel, gasoline, mail and five films. There were also six airmen aboard, three coming in on posting and a party of three from No 3 RD to install the ASV Beacon. Unloading was completed by 1600 hrs and Nimpkish departed for Henslung Bay for the night. A movie was shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
5 Mar 44
Weather: Clear and calm. Sea very smooth. Nimpkish arrived from Henslung at 0915 hrs PWT with 50 drums of diesel fuel. This was unloaded by 1130 hrs. At 1400 hrs the Nimpkish departed for Massett with six airmen going out on leave and seven on posting. The Officer Commanding, F/O HH Matheson also went out on his delayed New Year's leave, leaving P/O HO Bolstad in charge of the station. A movie was shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs PWT.
6 Mar 44
Weather: Clear and calm. Sea very calm. No unusual occurrences.
7 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers, east wind. Nimpkish reported that they were unserviceable and putting in to Shannon Bay to make repairs. Movie shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
8 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy with steady rain. Calm in the morning but a sudden gale blew up from the east approximately 1400 hrs PWT and continued into the night. Sea very rough. Movie shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
9 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy with sleet showers. Gale continued with rough seas. Nimpkish reported again serviceable. No unusual occurrences.
10 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy with sleet showers. Strong west wind. Sea very rough. No unusual occurrences.
11 Mar 44
Weather: Partly cloudy. Strong west wind, sea very rough. Nimpkish attempted to come over from Massett but was forced to turn back due to sea conditions. A bingo game was held in the Rec Hall at 2030 hrs PWT.
12 Mar 44
Weather: Clear and calm. Nimpkish arrived from Massett at1730 hrs PWT bringing in mail and films. Four airmen returning from leave and a party of two airmen coming in to install a preamplifier in the Radar section. A movie was held in the Rec hall at 2030 hrs.
13 Mar 44
Weather: Colder with light snow fall. The MV Nimpkish arrived at 1830 PWT with F/O HH Matheson, two airmen on posting and two off leave. A movie was held in the Rec Hall at 2030 hrs.
14 Mar 44
Weather: Cool with rain all day. The responder beacon officially went on the air at 2300 hrs GMT.
15 Mar 44
Weather: Cool with a few light showers. The MV Nimpkish arrived at 1830 PWT but the water was too rough to unload. A movie was held in the Rec Hall at 2030 hrs.
16 Mar 44
Weather: Heavy rain all morning. Water was to rough for the MV Nimpkish to come up from Henslung to unload.
17 Mar 44
Weather: Raining most of the day. The MV Nimpkish arrived at 1000 PWT, was unloaded and departed for Massett at 1240 hrs with three airmen proceeding on leave.
18 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy with periodic rains. A quiz programme was held in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
19 Mar 44
Weather: Cold and cloudy. No unusual occurrences.
20 Mar 44
Weather: Rained practically all day. Site picked for IFF Tower and reported to WAC for concurrence.
21 Mar 44
Weather: Cool with a few light showers. The supply boat was to arrive today but did not probably due to the fact that the ocean is rough today.
22 Mar 44
Weather: Cold with a few snow squalls. The MV Nimkish arrived at 1415 PWT with two airmen on posting, an educational Sgt from Prince Rupert on TD, mail and two films. The MV Nimpkish departed for Henslung Bay at 1510 PWT. A movie was held in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
23 Mar 44
Weather: Fairly clear but cool. The MV Nimpkish came to the dock at 1430 hrs but the water was too rough to go out with the row boats. A muster parade and a fire drill was held at 1830 hrs and a movie at 2000 hrs in the Rec Hall.
24 Mar 44
Weather: Fairly clear today. The MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung at 1000 PWT, picked up 50 empty oil drums, took them to Henslung and proceeded to Massett arriving there at 1700 PWT. W/C Brooks, CO of Seal Cove was waiting for the boat to bring him to Langara but due to its late arrival at Massett it was not considered adviseable to proceed. A movie was held in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs. The sound track on the film shown was not worn as badly as the ones previously shown resulting in clear, audible sound.
25 Mar 44
Weather: Cloudy and cool. The Nimpkish arrived at 1330 hrs with W/C Brooks, the MO and Dental Officer of the parent station, Seal Cove. W/C Brooks did not come ashore. The water was rough and having important business to be completed at Prince Rupert he did not want to take the chance of going ashore and not getting back onto the boat. At 1900 hrs a medical and dental parade was held. The MV Nimpkish departed for Massett at 1600 hrs with W/C Brooks aboard. Construction well underway of the IFF tower base.
26 Mar 44
Weather: Clear, one of the best days of the winter. A dental and medical parade was held at 1315 hrs. A party hiked to Fury Bay leaving at 0600 hrs returning at 2000 hrs.
27 Mar 44
Weather: Fairly clear all day. The ocean is calm. The MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett via Henslung at 1300 hrs. Thirty-nine barrels of diesel oil were unloaded and the boat departed for Massett at 1515 hrs with the Medical and Dental Officers aboard and two airmen proceeding on leave.
28 Mar 44
Weather: Cool with rain most of the day. A Bingo nite was held in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs with the majority of personnel in attendance.
29 Mar 44
Weather: Rain all day. The MV Nimpkish arrived at 1745 hrs with mail, two films, rations and one airman returning from leave. A movie was held at 2000 hrs in the Rec Hall. The Nimpkish departed for Henslung at 1830 hrs to pick up diesel oil.
30 Mar 44
Weather: Cool, with rain. The MV Nimpkish came to the dock but the water was too rough to unload.
31 Mar 44
Weather: A cool day with a few light showers. No unusual occurrences today.
Officers on strength - 3, Other ranks on strength - 60, Other ranks attached - 1.
(HH Matheson) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
RCAF Detachment No 26,
Langara Island, BC.
1 Apr 44
Weather: Fairly clear and warmer today but the water has been too rough for the Nimpkish to unload.
2 Apr 44
Weather: A clear warm morning clouding over in the afternoon. The MV Nimpkish arrived at 0930 hrs, the water was calm and the frigidaire and oil was unloaded. The boat departed for Massett at 1100 hrs with one airman proceeding on leave.
3 Apr 44
Weather: Cool and cloudy with frequent showers. No unusual occurrence today.
4 Apr 44
Weather: Fairly clear today with no rain. The MV Nimpkish arrived at 1315 PWT bringing mail, three airmen back from leave and the Radar Quarterly Overhaul crew. The boat departed for Massett at 1100 hrs with one airman proceeding on leave.
5 Apr 44
Weather: Clear and warmer, changing towards evening to cloudy with showers. The Quarterly overhaul crew commenced work at 0900 hrs. Work is progressing favourably with the two standby generator huts and the IFF tower base. Prince Rupert advised today they were sending out the pay and acquitance rolls for March and April with P/O Pollock who is returning from leave.
6 Apr 44
Weather: Cloudy and cool. Although the boat was expected today it did not arrive. Trouble was experienced today with too much load drawn by the camp from the 15 KVA transformer thus blowing the fuses. The load was cut down and if it is still too heavy at night the electric water heaters in the barracks will have to be taken out.
7 Apr 44
Weather: Cloudy with a few showers. The supply boat did not arrive today as expected. No unusual occurrences today.
8 Apr 44
Weather: Water fairly calm and little rain today. The MV Nimpkish arrived at 1500 hrs with three airmen, P/Os Bolstad and Pollock, also mail and three films. A movie was held at 2000 hrs and pay parade at 1830 hrs.
9 Apr 44
Weather: No rain, warmer and calm water. The MV Nimpkish arrived at 1030 hrs, picked up six airmen proceeding on leave and posting.
10 Apr 44
Weather: A clear, warm day. The Quarterly overhaul party is progressing favourably, will be finished tomorrow. A movie was held at 2000 hrs.
11 Apr 44
Weather: Clear and calm. No unusual occurrences.
12 Apr 44
Weather: Mostly clear with some clouds and light showers. Overhaul party finished and station back on the air at 0800 hrs PWT.
13 Apr 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers at night. No unusual occurrences.
14 Apr 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers, slight west wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1500 hrs PWT bringing mail, rations, canteen supplies and gravel and cement for the IFF tower bases. Seven airmen came in, four on posting, and three returning from leave. A bingo tournament was held in the Rec hall at 2000 hrs PWT. MV Nimpkish returned to Massett at 1730hrs taking out the overhaul party and one airman going to Prince Rupert for dental attention.
15 Apr 44
Weather: Clear, warm and calm. No unusual occurrences.
16 Apr 44
Weather: Partly cloudy and calm. A large group of the station personnel took advantage of the opportunity of trying out the south beach for a playground. They thoroughly enjoyed the softball game held there in spite of the fact that conditions of terrain are not the best.
17 Apr 44
Weather: Hazy and warm. Strong west wind. No unusual occurrences.
18 Apr 44
Weather: Partly cloudy and warm. No unusual occurrences.
19 Apr 44
Weather: Partly cloudy,showers. No unusual occurrences.
20 Apr 44
Weather: Clear and warm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1830 hrs PWT bringing gasoline, mail and three airmen returning from leave. S/L Nesbitt and an airman from No 9 CMU also came in for the purpose of making some pipe fittings and checking on supplies. Nimpkish departed for Henslung Bay at 1900 hrs PWT.
21 Apr 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with showers, strong east wind. Nimpkish twice to come around from Henslung Bay but turned back on both occasions due to heavy seas. The Hypochlorinator on the water supply was set to working.
22 Apr 44
Weather: Clear and calm. Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1130 hrs PWT and the oil was unloaded. It was also loaded again with pipes and pipe fittings found surplus on the station. It departed for Massett at 1500 hrs PWT. S/L Nesbitt and eight airmen going out on posting and one on leave departed on it.
23 Apr 44
Weather: Cloudy with strong east wind and showers. No unusual occurrences.
24 Apr 44
Weather: Clear, warm and calm. Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1830 hrs PWT bringing mail and five passengers, three airmen returning from leave, one on posting and one temporary duty. Fifty empty drums were loaded on the boat and it departed for Henslung at 1945 hrs PWT. A movie was shown in the Rec Hall at 2015 hrs. Sixth Victory Loan sales for the day were $550.00.
25 Apr 44
Weather: Clear and calm, quite warm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung at 1300 hrs PWT with fifty drums of diesel fuel. These were unloaded by 1530 hrs and the boat departed for Massett. One of the station personnel went aboard the boat on TD. A movie was shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs PWT. Victory Loan sales for the day were $1150.00.
26 Apr 44
Weather: Clear and calm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1845 hrs PWT bringing in rations and canteen supplies. One airman returned from TD in Prince Rupert and an equipment sergeant from Prince Rupert came in as well. After unloading the cargo the Nimpkish put in at Henslung Bay for the night. A clothing parade was held in the Mess hall at 2000 hrs.
27 Apr 44
Weather: Clear and calm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung at 1000 hrs, bringing in seven more drums of diesel fuel. This was unloaded and the boat returned to Massett at 1100 hrs PWT.
28 Apr 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers. Light west wind. No unusual occurences.
29 Apr 44
Weather: Cloudy with quite heavy rain all day, west wind. The YMCA supervisor donated eight dollars in prizes for a bingo game which was held at 2000 hrs PWT in the Rec Hall.
30 Apr 44
Weather: Clear and calm. Quite warm. A softball game was played at the south beach at 1430 hrs.
Officers on strength - 3, Other ranks on strength - 57, Other ranks attached - 1.
(HH Matheson) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
RCAF Detachment No 26,
Langara Island, BC.
1 May 44
Weather: Clear and calm. MV Nimpkish arrived at 1830 hrs PWT. Passengers aboard were the paymaster F/O Spencer and F/O Gray a messing officer from WAC, a party of two airmen coming in to instal a new beacon aerial and one airman returning from TD in Prince Rupert. Cargo consisted of twelve drums of gasoline, some planking for repairing the road and mail. A pay parade was held at 2030 hrs PWT. MV Nimpkish went to Henslung Bay to lay over until the officers should be ready to go out.
2 May 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with light south wind. New beacon aerial was installed. The messing officer made a tour of the station with a view to making improvements in the unsatisfactory messing conditions. A sing-song was held in the canteen at 2000 hrs with F/O Gray at the piano. This was the first entertainment of this nature and was thoroughly enjoyed.
3 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers and south east wind. MV Nimpkish came in from Henslung Bay at 0900 hrs PWT and returned to Massett at 1000 hrs. It carried the paymaster, messing officer, the OC going to Prince Rupert on TD, and P/O Pollock going out on posting to No 1 "Y" Depot, Lachine. Two airmen went out on leave as well as the beacon party.
4 May 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with showers in the morning, calm. MN Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1730 hrs bringing in P/O CR Webber on posting, five airmen coming in on posting and two returning from leave. Mail and two films as well as 13 empty oil drums were also brought in. Nimpkish departed for Henslung Bay at 1830 hrs. A movie was held in the Rec Hall at 2030 hrs.
5 May 44
Weather: Clear with light west wind. Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 0700 hrs and departed immediately for Prince Rupert with one airman aboard going out on posting. Cement was poured for the bases of the new IFF tower to be erected.
6 May 44
Weather: Clear and calm. A bingo contest was held in the evening at 2000 hrs.
7 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with drizzle nearly all day. Stiff south wind. A movie was held in the Rec hall at 2000 hrs PWT.
8 May 44
Weather: Clear, stiff westerly wind. No unusual occurrences.
9 May 44
Weather: Clear. West wind continued. No unusual occurrences.
10 May 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, calm. Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1400 hrs PWT bringing in rations, canteen supplies, cement and rock wool as well as lumber brought directly Prince Rupert. The OC returned from TD in Prince Rupert. F/L Morelli the RC Padre from Rupert also came in. Only part of the cargo was unloaded due to a heavy swell in the sea. The Nimpkish went round to Henslung Bay at 1530 hrs to wait for a calmer sea.
11 May 44
Weather: Partly cloudy and calm. An RC church service was held at 0800 hrs in the canteen. The Nimpkish came round from Henslung Bay at 1300 hrs. The remaining cargo was unloaded then it sailed for Henslung Bay at 1730 hrs carrying the OC and a party to investigate the case of a damaged shack at the Bay. It returned at 1930 hrs with the party then proceeded back to Henslung Bay to lay over for the night.
12 May 44
Weather: Clear and calm. MV Nimpkish arrived at 0830 hrs from Henslung. The Padre and an airman from 9 CMU went out on it. It sailed immediately for Massett. At 1930 hrs the Nimpkish returned from Massett to bring in F/L McGee of WAC, who was coming in on an inspection of the station. It returned to Henslung Bay for the night to return to Massett the following morning. A movie was held in the rec hall at 2030 hrs.
13 May 44
Weather: Partly cloudy. Light west wind. F/L McGee began his inspection of the station. A bingo game was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs.
14 May 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with light west wind. No unusual occurrences.
15 May 44
Weather: Cloudy, stiff west wind. Sixth Victory Loan sales at the close of the campaign on the station totalled three thousand four hundred dollars to surpass the quota assigned by two hundred dollars. A movie was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs.
16 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with stiff south wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1300 hrs PWT. It carried a cargo of oil and planks for road mending. Four airmen came in. One returning from leave, two from Prince Rupert on TD for ground warfare instruction and one from 9 CMU to check the chlorinator system. The boat sailed for Massett at 1530 hrs with F/L McGee aboard.
17 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with light rain. Stiff south wind. Ground warfare instruction was begun. A cribbage tournament was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs PWT.
18 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with west wind. Occasional showers. A movie was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs PWT.
19 May 44
Weather: Cloudy, stiff west wind and continuous rain. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1230 hrs bringing in F/L Lister and the RCAF troupe "The Joe Boys". Nimpkish sailed for Henslung at1330 hrs. The "Joe Boys" performed at 1530 hrs and again at 1900 hrs.
20 May 44
Weather: Cloudy, continued west wind and rain. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1300 hrs and departed for Massett at 1400 hrs carrying the "Joe Boys" and F/L Lister also the 9 CMU NCO, one airman going out on posting, three on leave and one on TD to Prince Rupert. A bingo game was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs.
21 May 44
Weather: Clear with strong west wind. Sea quite heavy. No events of unusual occurrences.
22 May 44
Weather: Clear with strong west wind. MV Nimpkish attempted to come in at 1430 hrs but due to the rough sea they turned around at Raft Bay and put in to Henslung for the night. A movie was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs.
23 May 44
Weather: Clear with west wind continued. Nimpkish arrived from Henslung at 1200 hrs but due to the heavy sea no attempt was made to unload it and the boat put back for Henslung Bay. Six passengers were dropped off at Egeria Bay from whence they found their way to the camp through the bush. Two were civilian DOT personnel, two airmen coming in on posting and two 9 CMU personnel coming in to replace the skyline.
24 May 44
Weather: Cloudy, light south wind and rain. Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1300 hrs. Rations, canteen supplies, mail and new material for the skyline were unloaded. There was a particularly large supply of rations due to the inaugurating of the coast watch ration system on the station. The Nimpkish departed for Massett at 1600 hrs. It carried the two Ground Warfare instructors from Prince Rupert who had finished giving the course to the entire station.
25 May 44
Weather: Cloudy, light south wind and showers. A cribbage tournament was held in the rec hall at 2030 hrs immediately following the monthly mess meeting.
26 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1400 hrs and departed immediately for Massett carrying P/O Webber going out to take his KTS at Trenton and one airman going out on leave. A movie was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs PWT.
27 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers. Light south wind. The Department of Transport tender "Port Alberni" arrived during the morning with supplies for the lighthouse. Some station personnel assisted in unloading it. Work on the new skyline was completed. A bingo game was held at 2030 hrs in the rec hall.
28 May 44
Weather: Clear with west wind. A special mess dinner was served at 1700 hrs followed by a "smoker" in the rec hall.
29 May 44
Weather: Partly cloudy with occasional showers. No events of unusual occurrence.
30 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers. Light west wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1400 hrs PWT carrying rations, lumber and mail as well as one airman returned from TD in Prince Rupert and one coming in on posting. Due to the low tide and large ground swell only the passengers and mail were taken off. The boat sailed for Henslung Bay at 1445 to put in for the night.
31 May 44
Weather: Cloudy with steady rain and light west wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 0900 hrs PWT. The remaining cargo was unloaded and the boat put back for Massett at 1100 hrs PWT. Six airmen departed on it. Two of them were 9 CMU construction hands, three airmen going out on leave, and one on posting.
Officers on strength - 3, Other ranks on strength - 58, Other ranks attached - 1.
(HO Bolstad) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
RCAF Detachment No 26,
Langara Island, BC.
1 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. A bridge drive was held in the rec hall at 2030 hrs.
2 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. Quite warm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1500 hrs bringing in mail, canteen supplies, a large lot of road planking and some new radio gear. One airman arrived on posting. The Nimpkish departed for Henslung Bay at 1645 hrs.
3 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1000 hrs and departed for Massett immediately with mail and one airman going out on leave.
4 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. No unusual occurrences.
5 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. No unusual occurrences.
6 Jun 44
Weather: Cloudy with stiff west wind and some fog. A movie was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs.
7 Jun 44
Weather: Cloudy and cool. West wind continued. A cribbage drive was held at 2000 hrs in rec hall.
8 Jun 44
Weather: Partly cloudy and calm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1800 hrs. It brought in three airmen returning from leave and two YMCA fieldmen. Mail and canteen supplies also came in. MV Nimpkish returned to Massett at 1910 hrs. One airman went out on leave and C25111 F/O Matheson HH went out on TD to Rockcliffe, Ont. On this date C29271 F/O Bolstad HO assumed the position of temporary OC during the absence of F/O Matheson. A change was also instituted in the YMCA field man, Mr H Vickery is taking over in place of Mr O Goldsmith. A No 1 Alert was called during the afternoon until naval vessels offshore were identified.
9 Jun 44
Weather: Cloudy and cool. Light west wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1345 and 100 empty diesel fuel drums were loaded aboard and taken to Henslung Bay to await filling by the Home Oil Co. Nimpkish sailed for Henslung at 1630 hrs.
10 Jun 44
Weather: Cloudy with fog. Strong west wind. No events of unusual occurrence.
11 Jun 44
Weather: Cloudy and cool. Strong west wind continued. The electric motor on the water pumping system burned out during the previous evening and the detachment was put on a minimum water ration. A church service was conducted at 1500 hrs by Mr Vickery. At 2000 hrs a Quiz contest was held in the rec hall.
12 Jun 44
Weather: Cloudy and cool with strong west wind. Sea quite rough. Heavy fog in the evening. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung at 0830. It departed for Massett at 0900 hrs with outgoing mail and five passengers, the two YMCA field men, one airman on leave and two on posting. Two SPs from this Detachment were sent down to Henslung Bay to stand guard over the oil drums left there by the Nimpkish. An emergency gasoline motor was installed on the pump line so that the camp could again use the regular amount of water.
13 Jun 44
Weather: Heavy fog, strong west wind. Sea quite rough. MV Nimpkish attempted to come in from Massett but had to turn back due to the weather.
14 Jun 44
Weather: Foggy in the morning, clearing in afternoon. Light breeze from west. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 2230 hrs bringing in rations, canteen supplies and mail. One airman arrived on posting as well as two RCA Victor engineers and one Northern Electric engineer for making modifications on the F/M equipment. Nimpkish departed for Henslung at 2300 hrs.
15 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung at 1000 hrs and departed for Massett at 1130 hrs with one airman aboard going out on leave.
16 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. No unusual occurrence.
17 Jun 44
Weather: Foggy. Strong west wind. Station inoperative for two hours in the morning. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1800 hrs bringing in an NCO from No 3 Repair Depot for pre-calibration work. Mail and film were also brought in. The Nimpkish returned to Henslung Bay to await the arrival of the oil tanker. A picture show was held in the rec hall at 2030 hrs.
18 Jun 44
Weather: Foggy, light west wind. The day was highlighted by the staging in the evening of the first station show. The boys of No 3 barracks entertained the camp with original sketches, gags, songs etc.
19 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. The Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1100 hrs with 51 drums of diesel fuel. These were unloaded and the boat went back to Massett at 1400 hrs. The two RCA Victor engineers returned to Massett. A picture show was held at 2000 hrs in the rec hall.
20 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1900 hrs bringing in W/C McCullagh, the Command Padre, and W/C Dumbrille and S/L Nesbitt of #9 CMU. It returned to Massett at 2100 hrs with the two 9 CMU officers. A service was held at 2130 hrs in the rec hall by W/C McCullagh.
21 Jun 44
Weather: Calm with heavy fog. W/C McCullagh held a special service in the recreation hall at 1100 hrs. A cribbage tournament was held at 2000 hrs. Station went off air at 0800 hrs for quarterly overhaul.
22 Jun 44
Weather: Light west wind, foggy part of the day. MV Nimpkish arrived at 1300 hrs from Massett bringing in mail, and six passengers, a calibration party of five from #3 RD and a civilian meteorologist. It returned to Massett at 1400 hrs, W/C McCullagh and two airmen going out on leave aboard. A movie show of educational film from Western Air Command was shown at 2000 hrs in the rec hall.
23 Jun 44
Weather: Light showers and some fog. Light west wind. No unusual occurrences this day.
24 Jun 44
Weather: Light fog and rain. Quite calm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1330 hrs bringing mail, two airmen for overhauling the diesel power units and the YMCA field man. It returned to Massett at 1430 hrs with the Northern Electric engineer, the civilian meteorologist and one airman from 9 CMU going out on posting, aboard. A bingo game was held in the rec hall at 2000 hrs.
25 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm, warm. No unusual occurrences.
26 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and calm, warm. No unusual occurrences.
27 Jun 44
Weather: Cloudy, occasional showers. Light south east wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 2130 hrs, bringing rations, canteen supplies, mail and equipment as well as 25 drums of diesel fuel. Unloading was completed by 2300 hrs and the boat departed for Massett with the YMCA fieldman and one airman going out on posting aboard.
28 Jun 44
Weather: Clear and warm. Light west wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 2000 hrs, bringing in mail and the paymaster, F/O Spencer. It returned to Massett at 2015 hrs with two passengers, the diesel overhaul party. A pay parade was held at 2100 hrs and a picture show at 2200 hrs.
29 Jun 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, cool. Light west wind and showers. No events of unusual occurrences.
30 Jun 44
Weather: Cloudy with heavy mist in the morning. Clear and warm during afternoon with stiff west wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 0845 hrs with two airmen aboard, one coming in on posting and one off leave. It departed for Massett at 0900 hrs with F/O Spencer aboard.
Officers on strength - 3, Other ranks on strength - 55, Other ranks attached - 0.
(HO Bolstad) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
RCAF Detachment No 26,
Langara Island, BC.
1 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy and calm. Quarterly overhaul completed this day and station back on the air again. A bingo game was held at 2000 hrs in the Rec Hall.
2 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy, light showers, calm. The stage show presented by the personnel of No 2 Barracks at 2000 hrs proved splendid. Some worthwhile talent was revealed among the airmen.
3 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy and calm in the morning,clearing in the afternoon to become sunny and warm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1845 hrs bringing in mail, film and one airman returning from leave. It departed for Massett at 1910 hrs. A movie was shown at 2000 hrs. Calibration flights commenced this day at 1030 hrs.
4 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy, light west wind and occasional showers. Overcast too dense to continue calibration flights.
5 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy, calm. Calibration flights continued in afternoon. A movie was shown in the Rec hall at 2000 hrs.
6 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy and misty, strong west wind. Sea quite rough. Calibration flights discontinued due to breakdown of equipment.
7 Jul 44
Weather: Weather continued cloudy with fog and strong west wind. Sea still rough. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 2015. Two airmen returned from leave and one came in from 9 CMU to make repairs to the refrigerator. MV Nimpkish departed for Henslung Bay to tie over for the night at 2030 hrs.
8 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy and misty. Strong west wind. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1030 hrs and departed for Massett at 1100 movie carrying one airman, going out on leave, one on posting and the airman from 9 CMU. A movie was held in the Rec hall at 2000 hrs.
9 Jul 44
Weather: Calm. Sky overcast and heavy fog all day. No unusual occurrences.
10 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, quite warm, calm. No unusual occurrences.
11 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy, calm, light showers. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1245 hrs. Mail, rations, lumber and equipment were brought in. Nine passengers were aboard, five 9 CMU personnel coming in to do some construction work on fire walls, three airmen returning from leave and one coming in on posting. Passengers and freight were unloaded by 1500 hrs and the boat departed for Masset. Six airmen went out, one on posting and four on leave as well as the NCO in charge of the 9 CMU party. A mess meeting was held in the recreation hall at 1900 hrs. A picture show was shown in the recreation hall at 2030 hrs.
12 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy, light south east wind. Heavy rain all day. No unusual occurrences.
13 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy with stiff south east wind. Light showers. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1230 hrs with mail and five passengers. S/L Foy, of Personnel Relations Branch, WAC; F/O Watson, MO from Prince Rupert; Nursing Sister Cuttredge, from Prince Rupert; and F/L Koffend, Protestant Padre from Prince Rupert who brought over the pay. A pay parade was held at 1400 hrs and a hospital parade at 1430 hrs. F/L Koffend conducted a service at 1530 hrs in the Rec Hall. S/L Foy inspected the station generally and examined the facilities for bringing in a 75 mm gun. The Nimpkish departed for Massett at 1700 hrs bearing the officer personnel that had come in and two airmen, one going out on leave and the other on posting.
14 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, warm and calm. No unusual occurrences.
15 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, light south wind,warm. A bingo game was held in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
16 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, calm, warm. No unusual occurrences.
17 Jul 44
Weather: Sky overcast, showers, light west wind. MV Seton arrived from Massett at 1815 hrs, bringing in mail and six passengers: two airmen returning from leave, three coming in on posting and one 9 CMU airman coming in to supervise the installation of fire walls. The Seton departed for Massett at 1900 hrs with two passengers, one going out on posting and the other on leave. A picture show was held in the Rec Hall at 2030 hrs.
18 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, calm and warm. Calibration flights recommenced this day after having been discontinued for a week due to bad flying conditions. Two flights were completed.
19 Jul 44
Weather: Clear and calm, quite warm. Flying conditions excellent. Five calibration flights completed this day.
20 Jul 44
Weather: Heavy overcast, calm. No unusual occurrences this day.
21 Jul 44
Weather: Sky overcast, steady rain, calm. Light fog. Two WAC instructional films were shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs. MV Seton arrived from Massett at 2000 hrs bringing in mail and 3700 lbs of technical equipment. One airman came in off leave. Unloading was completed by 2200 hrs and the Seton departed for Henslung Bay to lie over for the night.
22 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy, calm, occasional showers. MV Seton arrived from Henslung Bay at 1030 hrs and departed immediately for Massett with ten passengers aboard: five 9 CMU personnel returning to Massett, three airmen going out on posting and two on leave.
23 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, warm and calm. An attempt was made to resume the calibration flights but these had to be washed out due to heavy overcast out to sea.
24 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, calm. Calibration flights were resumed and three completed successfully.
25 Jul 44
Weather: Partly cloudy, calm. MV Seton arrived from Massett at 1330 hrs with mail and four passengers: one airman coming in on posting, one 9 CMU airman to repair a refrigerator and two airman from No 3 Repair Depot to erect the Beacon Tower. The vessel stood by for two hours to permit the refrigerator repair man to complete his work and depart on it. It departed for Massett at 1530 hrs. Two airmen went out on leave. Four calibration flights were completed this day to finish the entire calibration. Work was begun on the erection of the beacon tower.
26 Jul 44
Weather: Clear and warm, calm during the early part of the day. About 1800 hrs a stiff west wind blew up bringing in a heavy mist and rain. A picture show was held in the Rec Hall at 1800 hrs.
27 Jul 44
Weather: Cloudy, calm. MV Seton arrived from Massett at 1300 hrs PWT bringing in mail. It departed immediately for Massett with seven passengers aboard. Four airmen from the calibration crew, two airmen from the tower crew and the YMCA Supervisor Mr Vickery. A picture show was held in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs PWT.
28 Jul 44
Weather: Clear, strong west wind. No unusual occurrences this day.
29 Jul 44
Weather: Clear with strong west wind. No unusual occurrences.
30 Jul 44
Weather: Clear, wind somewhat abated. Sea very rough. MV Nimpkish arrived from Prince Rupert at 1600 hrs PWT. Sea was too rough to attempt unloading so they put around to Henslung Bay to await calmer weather.
31 Jul 44
Weather: Clear and calm with heavy fog setting in at 2000 hrs PWT. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1000 hrs with rations, two tons of 75mm ammunition and two airmen returning from leave. Unloading was completed by 1130 hrs and the boat went back to Henslung to pick up a supply of diesel fuel. It arrived back at 1800 hrs with fifty drums of diesel fuel. Unloading was completed by 2000 hrs and the boat put back to the Bay to lay overfor the night.
Officers on strength - 2, Other ranks on strength - 58, Other ranks attached - 0.
(HO Bolstad) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
RCAF Detachment No 26,
Langara Island, BC.
1 Aug 44
Weather: Sky overcast, calm, light showers. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1030 hrs to pick up outgoing mail and two airmen going on leave. It departed immediately for Massett.
2 Aug 44
Weather: Sky overcast, calm. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 2100 hrs PWT bringing in remaining rations, mail, one film and one airman returning from leave. It also carried the Light Keeper and family returning from vacation. After unloading, the boat left for Henslung Bay to put in for the night.
3 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy, calm with occasional showers. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 1200 hrs PWT to pick up outgoing mail and departed immediately for Massett. A movie film was shown in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs PWT.
4 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy with some fog. Calm. No unusual occurrences.
5 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy and calm. A bingo game was held in the Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
6 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy and calm, occasional showers. MV Nimpkish arrived from Massett at 1330 hrs bringing in mail and one passenger, an airman returning from leave. It departed for Massett at 1630 hrs with outgoing mail and 4 passengers, three airmen going out on leave and one on posting.
7 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy and calm with heavy fog in the evening. A film from the WAC library "The Enemy Japan" was shown at 2000 hrs PWT.
8 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy, calm, heavy fog. No unusual occurrences.
9 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy with showers, strong west wind. Sea quite rough. No unusual occurrences.
10 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy and calm in the morning with gale from the south east blowing up in the late afternoon bringing heavy rain. MV Nimpkish arrived from Henslung Bay at 0930 hrs PWT bringing in mail and linoleum from the YMCA for the Rec Hall. One airman arrived on posting. The vessel departed for Massett at 1030 hrs PWT. A movie was shown at 2000 hrs PWT.
11 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy, strong west wind. No unusual occurrences.
12 Aug 44
Weather: Cloudy, without rain. F/O Bolstad busy during morning preparing for arrival of F/O Murray. Nimpkish arrived 1400 hrs with F/O Murray, F/O Spencer of Prince Rupert Accounts, Mr Vicary, the YMCA man, and new Dept of Transport assistant for lighthouse. Mail and rations were unloaded. Boat returned immediately. Arrangements for transfer of Command were commenced. F/O Murray and canteen steward checked stock and accounting for Canteen.
13 Aug 44
Weather: Very cloudy with fog and light rain. NPF Station Fund Inventory and Inventory #47 checked and taken over by F/O Murray subject to deficiencies listed. Evening show appreciated by all. F/O Murray and F/O Bolstad worked after the show on matters involved in Transfer of Command.
14 Aug 44
Weather: Very dull, with light rain. F/O Murray discussed all pending matters with F/O Bolstad, who left for Massett at 1700 hrs on the Nimpkish. LAC Travers granted annual leave, leaving today. Sgt Valgardson, Service Police, proceeded to Rupert on Ground Warfare course for three weeks. LAC Monroe, Telephone Operator, left on posting to Rupert. YMCA man returned to Massett. Letter explaining inventory situation was despatched to Commanding Officer, Prince Rupert.
15 Aug 44
Weather: Dull without rain and little fog. Most of the day was spent clearing up Administrative matters that have been allowed to accumulate. A great mass of untouched correspondence was checked and filed or dealt with. Filing system is too general to be well organized or defined. Evening show, "His Butler's Sister", was well enjoyed.
16 Aug 44
Weather: Alternate sunshine and cloudiness, without rain or fog. As much mail as possible was answered in preparation for Thursday's boat. Sgt Humphrey (diesel) reported on sick parade, with apparent cold, but condition improved during day. A number of outgoing shipments were packed, and M549 retrieved from nearby cove to be sent to Rupert for repair. This craft is now property of Dept of Transport.
17 Aug 44
Weather: Dull with slight rain. Condition of Sgt Humphrey worse. Infection of left leg discovered, result of chafing of skin on MT truck. Fever probably result of blood poisoning, as red line apparent well up on thigh. Hot compresses applied. Request made that MO come to this Detachment but SMO insisted that patient be removed to Rupert. Nimpkish was held here for two hours until decision made, and patient prepared. Removal was contrary to the wishes of Sgt Humphrey.
18 Aug 44
Weather: Bright day, unusual Langara weather. F/O Murray proceeded to operations to investigate state of equipment accounting. Found condition of accounting very unsatisfactory, with little on hand in the way of records. Discovered that Radar mechanics were only working 2 shifts, leaving only operators on midnight shift. Three shift system was resumed. Most of the morning and all afternoon was spent cleaning and straightening BB #4 which has been used as a store room. All dirt and scrap was removed and remaining equipment was stored in an orderly fashion. A great deal of equipment should be shipped back to #3 RD as soon as possible, as unused articles are numerous.
19 Aug 44
Weather: Dull. F/O Murray with assistance of several men made commencement on cleaning out Emergency Ration hut. Whole supply of Pilot biscuits had crumbled and toppled over, because of tunneling of rats, which literally infested the building. About twenty were killed with clubs, some escaping into the woods, many remaining in other sections of the hut which had not been touched. Ninety-four cases of Pilot biscuits, found absolutely destroyed, were dumped into the sea. Some boxes were completely empty, others contained rat nests, or were destroyed by clothes moths or one or more forms of bacteria. Those destroyed were not edible under even the most severe conditions. A letter was despatched to the SMO requesting his advice in connection with obtaining privilege of write-off in this connection. In any case the building must be cleaned and disinfected. Show, Luck Legs, was enjoyed by all.
20 Aug 44
Weather: Bright clear day. As much time as possible was spent out of doors, in order to take full advantage of the sunshine which is scarce here. Bingo tournament was held Sunday evening. Search was made by all personnel for Cpl Flude, Mrs Kinnear and two children, who had not returned by 2145 hrs. Searching parties and the Kinnears must have missed one another in darkness, as Kinnears returned abut 2215 hrs. Parties went as far as the lake, returning after 2359 hours.
21 Aug 44
Weather: Bright, clear weather. Morning spent despatching mail. Afternoon boat arrived 1400 hrs. P/O McDonald, new officer, arrived; also relief for Hospital Assistant, who is proceeding on leave. Rations and Canteen supplies were unloaded, except 20 cases of cokes belonging here, which were returned to Massett, as they were out of drinks. Show was held at 2000 hrs. F/O Murray took P/O McDonald to operations to examine equipment, and start anomalous propagation records.
22 Aug 44
Weather: Dull, foggy weather. Mail was registered and sorted. Request was made of Rupert for SLTWs to be issued this unit; also ration books. Normal routine.
23 Aug 44
Weather: Morning dull, brightening toward noon. Afternoon dull, with fog towards 1800 hrs. Boat arrived 1400 hrs carrying 9 men and Padre. Men reported that their priority on plane from Rupert to Massett was evidently very low. P/P McDonald, F/L Ellis, and F/O Murray inspected emergency ration hut to verify condition reported by F/O Murray to SMO, Prince Rupert.
24 Aug 44
Weather: Dull with a little rain. Cleaning of emergency ration hut completed and carpenter began laying new Mess Hall floor. In the evening F/L Ellis, Padre held an interesting and well attended worship service in the Rec Hall, followed by a movie at 2000 hrs "The Pied Piper".
25 Aug 44
Weather: Alternating clouds and sunshine. Morning spent working on Inventory check and equipment matters. Tanker arrived 1500 hrs. Steady work from 1600 hrs until 2100 hrs required to complete unloading. Nimpkish arrived 1830 hrs and departed 1900 hrs for Massett.
26 Aug 44
Weather: Heavy rain, with slight breeze. Day spent in routine administration. Bingo held at 2000 hrs in the Rec hall.
27 Aug 44
Weather: Heavy rains until 1200 hrs then clearing in afternoon. Inventory check was continued. Show held at 2000 hrs in Rec Hall.
28 Aug 44
Weather: Dull without rain. No unusual occurrences. Normal routine.
29 Aug 44
Weather: Warm with sunshine for part of day. Nimpkish arrived 1400 hrs. UBC educational film shown at 2000 hrs in Rec Hall.
30 Aug 44
Weather: Light rain. Woodcutting enterprise is getting well under way. Both saws are being used, although chain saw is giving trouble. F/O Bolstad's garden is progressing favourably. Show held in Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
31 Aug 44
Weather: Dry but overcast. Mess Hall floor was completed, cleaned and oiled with linseed oil.
Officers on strength - 3, Other ranks on strength - 57, Other ranks attached - 1.
(JWM Murray) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
RCAF Detachment No 26,
Langara Island, BC.
1 Sep 44
Weather: Bright weather, a strong breeze and a very heavy sea. Boat arrived in afternoon, unloaded, deciding to lay over at Henslung Bay. Cote and Byron, posting in, arrived. Wireless room was given a new painting throughout, and is now in very good shape. Chain Saw seized. OC believes this condition is the result of poor maintenance. Explicit instruction will be obtained before saw is placed in service again.
2 Sep 44
Weather: Bright again with heavier sea than ever. Boat made approach in the morning, but returned again to Henslung, as handling of rowboat was out of the question. Returned again in the afternoon, with same result. Wood cutting was continued with Drag Saw. Painting of Mess Hall was commenced, starting with white on the ceiling. "Panama Hattie", so called movie, was tolerated.
3 Sep 44
Weather: Extremely warm and bright. Cpl Chreptyk made a check of the F/M equipment finding one resistor which required replacement. Officers and several men made expedition to Deep Lake, where a very pleasant swim was enjoyed. Operations was quiet in spite of the cloudless weather. Boat returned during morning. Sea had subsided and loading was effected. Cpl Cooper and LAC Friesen left on leave. Cpl Goltz returned to Rupert and LAC Beale proceeded to Rupert on overseas posting.
4 Sep 44
Weather: Another bright day. Labour Day passed without celebration. Checking of stock at Operations was continued, all tubes being tested for quality. Disposition sheets for Non-Secret Inventory were made up by P/O McDonald and Cpl Brabant. Repairs were made to two of the Boats Pulling, which suffered heavy wear and tear. Bingo tournament was held during evening.
5 Sep 44
Weather: Very bright and warm. Sky cloudless. Morning spent preparing month-end reports for the mail. Boat arrived 1400 hrs. Thirty-five drums heavy were sent back to Rupert. LAC's Marks and Gandey left for #13 Detachment, Cpl Gallagher left on attachment to Rupert. F/O Murray proceeded to Operations during evening to revamp filing system.
6 Sep 44
Weather: Dull day without rain. P/O McDonald carried on administration routine. F/O Murray proceeded to Operations. Filing system was completed, except for tagging of folders. Unpacking of IFF equipment was commenced in order to provide more working space.
7 Sep 44
Weather: Dull day without rain. P/O McDonald and F/O Murray proceeded to Operations to supervise general cleanup, as much unnecessary rubbish had been allowed to collect, especially in the furnace room. Boat arrived 1345 hrs, leaving 1500 hrs. LAC Townion proceeded on posting to Alliford Bay.
8 Sep 44
Weather: Clear, bright weather. Officer Commanding inspected camp, including all barrack blocks, making note of several unsatisfactory conditions, which were brought to the attention of the NCO's in charge of the respective buildings. Check of inventory was completed.
9 Sep 44
Weather: Bright, clear, warm weather. All windows in the camp were cleaned with Bon Ami. Boat arrived with a WAC refrigerator man, who outlined plan for moving Emergency Ration refrigerator from present hut to the empty barrack block.
10 Sep 44
Weather: Bright, clear day. Day was spent completing cleanup in preparation for visit of G/C Schroeder and party. Station paper, "Bah Wilderness" came off the press.
11 Sep 44
Weather: Very dull with light rain. Boat arrived 1930 hrs, carrying G/C Schroeder, W/C Gunn, S/L Young, S/L Hanson, and F/L Whiting on tour of inspection. After dining at 2000 hrs party repaired to Rec Hall for showing of "Happy Go Lucky". Visiting party was quartered in the Hospital.
12 Sep 44
Weather: Heavy rain all day. G/C Schroeder and party inspected whole camp area, as well as operations. Lunch was served at 1145 hrs, as boat was scheduled to leave at 1230 hrs. Dental clinic opened at 1330 hrs.
13 Sep 44
Weather: Rain continued all day. Dental Clinic was in operation all day, continued into evening in order to be ready for the Friday boat. Routine normal. Show "Andy Hardy's Double Trouble" was enjoyed in Rec Hall at 2000 hrs.
14 Sep 44
Weather: Heavy rain most of the day. Dental clinic continued with work, completing work by supper time. All personnel have been examined and treated.
15 Sep 44
Weather: Dull weather, without rain. Nimpkish could not approach docking area.
16 Sep 44
Weather: Bright and clear in morning, overcast in afternoon. Landing was impossible. Nimpkish returned to Henslung Bay. YMCA rep and two airmen landed at Raff Bay, walked overland to camp.
17 Sep 44
Weather: Alternately clear and overcast without rain. Stiff breeze and heavy sea prevented landing.
18 Sep 44
Weather: Dull weather with thin rain and fog. Routine admin. Water calm enough to allow departure of dentist and assistant on Nimpkish at 0830 hrs PWT. YMCA rep remained.
19 Sep 44
Weather: Dull weather. F/O Murray and P/O McDonald resumed checking of inventory. Routine administration. Show at 2000 hrs "It Happened in Flatbush". Rather amateur.