DAILY DIARY
9 RADIO DETACHMENT - SPIDER ISLAND, BC.
1 Jan 1944 to 31 Dec 1944
1 Jan 44
Personnel on strength: officers - 2; airmen - 64.
Weather clear and bright. A beautiful day to start off the New Year. A marvellous dinner was served again today, and everyone enjoyed it. A get-together was held in the canteen in the evening.
2 Jan 44
Weather still remains fair and bright. Stranraer over from Bella Bella with personnel returning from leave. Nothing unusual to report.
3 Jan 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with some rain. MV Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with supplies and departed for Namu immediately. Work proceeding on installation of MF Beacon, and on installations in wireless section. Movie in canteen in evening.
4 Jan 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with light rain. MV Skeena Maid returned from Namu and departed again for Bella Bella. Canteen is being changed around to provide more room for supplies. Carpenter is working on this when weather prohibits outdoor work. Nothing unusual to report.
5 Jan 44
Weather continues cloudy and overcast with rain. Normal routine being followed. Equipment is operating very efficiently and excellent results being obtained. Communication still unsatisfactory due to atmospherics.
6 Jan 44
Weather continues cloudy and overcast. Rainy season seems to be here in full force. MV Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella, having come by way of Namu. Personnel, equipment, rations all aboard. Skeena Maid departed for Bella Bella immediately after unloading. Movie in rec hall in evening.
7 Jan 44
Weather weather continues cloudy and overcast. Very depressing weather. By arrangement with RCAF Station, Bella Bella, meteorological reports are being passed to that unit. This is an extension of the present arrangement existing with No 4 Group HQ. No 9 CMU proceeding with installation of beacon. Expect to be finished by end of January. Nothing unusual to report.
8 Jan 44
Weather continuously very dull and cloudy with high winds. Nothing out of the ordinary to report.
9 Jan 44
Weather continues dull and overcast. Some rain in morning. Construction work proceeding slowly as No. 9 CMU waiting for proper guy wire to raise poles. Shack ready except for interior walls. Nothing unusual to report.
10 Jan 44
Weather still continues dull with rising wind. MV Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella, unloaded and departed for Namu. New stove has been installed in kitchen, and is a definite improvement. New W/T equipment is being installed, and is now ready except for aerials. Movie in canteen in evening.
11 Jan 44
Weather continues cloudy and overcast with wind still rising. Skeena Maid advised she will remain at Namu until storm abates. Aerials locked owing to high wind. Normal routine.
12 Jan 44
Weather still continues stormy but wind somewhat abated. MV Skeena Maid returned from Namu, and left again for Namu after unloading. Aerials unlocked during night, and normal operations resumed. Nothing unusual to report.
13 Jan 44
Weather still continues stormy and overcast. January has been a poor month for weather. Skeena Maid returned from Namu and departed for Bella Bella. RT communications are still the biggest operational trouble. They improve slightly occasionally, and then return to the original standard. New aerials seem to have made little difference.
14 Jan 44
Weather still continues dull and overcast with some rain. Operations are normal and equipment is working well. Two gas generators have been received to be used as emergency power supply in case of diesel failure. Nothing unusual to report.
15 Jan 44
Weather still continues dull with intermittent rain. The Island is thoroughly soaked. Everything continues as usual.
16 Jan 44
Weather cloudy overcast with rain. No. 9 CMU have raised one aerial pole and second is ready to raise. Fourth pole has not yet been received. Nothing unusual to report.
17 Jan 44
Weather broke a little today, but still continued overcast. M/V Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella. P/O WA Smoke (C36034) arrived on posting, and P/O Clark and P/O Dyke came from Bella Bella on temporary duty. Skeena Maid departed again from Namu. Movie in Recreation Hall in evening.
18 Jan 44
Wind rose to great proportions again today, and Skeena Maid remained at Namu. Operations continued as usual until evening when still rising wind forced locking of aerials. Normal routine carried out.
19 Jan 44
Weather improved today. Skeena Maid advised this unit that she was proceeding to Bella Bella. Goose landed today with F/L Whiting of Command W&B and F/L MacKell of No 9 CMU to see how work on M/F beacon was progressing. Cpl Macklon arrived on TD to help with installation.
20 Jan 44
Weather continues overcast with hail. January is still showing no let up in weather. Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with rations and supplies. P/O Miller, skipper of the Skeena Maid has returned to take over. Proceeded to Namu after unloading. Operations continued normally. Movie in Canteen in evening.
21 Jan 44
Weather improved a little today but still remained dull. Skeena Maid returned from Namu with supplies and departed for Bella Bella after unloading. Routine normal.
22 Jan 44
Weather improved again and the sun made a brief appearance. Operations continue as usual. Nothing out of the ordinary to report.
23 Jan 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with light rain intermittently. No 9 CMU have raised second pole, and third one is ready to go up now. Nothing out of ordinary to report.
24 Jan 44
Weather clear and bright. A lovely day for a change. High wind last night blew tree across power lines and power was off for several hours while tree was removed. Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella and departed for Namu. Movie in recreation hall in evening.
25 Jan 44
Weather continues fair today, and spirits around here are much improved. Skeena Maid arrived from Namu and departed again for Bella Bella. P/O Clark and Dyke departed for Bella Bella. Routine normal.
26 Jan 44
Weather cloudy and overcast. Operations normal as equipment working very well. Nothing unusual to report.
27 Jan 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with some rain. MV Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with rations and supplies. Departed for Namu after unloading. No movie tonight as projector needs new bulb which is being obtained from Bella Bella. Nothing unusual to report.
28 Jan 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with rising winds. MV Skeena Maid returned from Namu with mail and supplies. Equipment working very well, and routine normal.
29 Jan 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with heavy rains. Station routine proceeding normally. Nothing unusual to report.
30 Jan 44
Weather clear and bright. Lovely sunshiny day. F/L Marshall, accountant officer at Bella Bella, Mr PW Pickard, auxiliary services supervisor, came over by aircraft. Mr Pickard brought along supplies for the canteen. F/L Marshall held pay parade and returned to Bella Bella by air. LAC Dillon suffered from abscessed jaw, and MO at Bella Bella informed.
31 Jan 44
Weather clear and bright. Capt Young, Dental Oficer at Bella Bella and F/O S Smith, No 9 CMU arrived by air from Bella Bella. LAC Dillon removed to Bella Bella. MV Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with personnel and supplies. Departed for Namu after unloading. Movie in rec hall in evening.
Personnel on strength: Officers - 2, airmen - 69.
(JH Davies) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
No 9 Detachment, RCAF,
Spider Island, BC.
1 Feb 44
Weather cloudy and overcast. MV Skeena Maid returned from Namu with mail and supplies. After unloading departed for Bella Bella with mail and personnel. Nothing unusual to report.
2 Feb 44
Weather clearing somewhat though still overcast. Stranraer over from Bella Bella at 1100 hrs bringing several officers. C39177 P/O FL Crease arrived on posting from Bella Bella. C12599 F/O I Mudrick, Group radio officer and C25190 F/O EJC Guppy from command radio office arrived on TD. Equipment working very well.
3 Feb 44
Weather clear and bright. The 9 CMU construction gang under Sgt Solem OHR have nearly completed work on antenna array for new beacon. Remainder of work will be commenced as soon as they finish. MV Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with rations and supplies. After unloading she proceeded on to Namu. Movie in rec hall in evening.
4 Feb 44
Weather continues clear and bright with fairly high winds. MV Skeena Maid returned from Namu with mail and supplies and departed for Bella Bella with personnel. F/O Mudrick, F/O Guppy and six men proceeding on posting departed. Nothing unusual to report.
5 Feb 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with rain falling intermittently. Sgt Solem having finished erection of antennae poles, F/S McGregor has commenced installation of ground mat. Cpl Macklon from WAC has begun to erect antenna proper. Radar equipment working exceptionally well. Nothing unusual to report.
6 Feb 44
Weather continues dull with heavy rains and a high wind. Being Sunday everything is very quiet. Nothing to report.
7 Feb 44
Weather bright and clear. The change in weather makes quite a change in spirits. This is a beautiful day. MV Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with personnel and supplies. After unloading departed for Namu. F/O S Smith of No 9 CMU arrived to inspect the work on the beacon. This is proceeding very well. Movie in rec hall in evening.
8 Feb 44
Weather continues clear and bright. M/V Skeena Maid arrived from Namu with mail and supplies. Departed soon after for Bella Bella. F/O Smith, Sgt Solem and 9 CMU men departed. Number of men in camp now considerably reduced. Nothing unusual to report.
9 Feb 44
Weather continues clear and bright. Routine duties around camp occupying men. Equipment continues to give excellent performance. Nothing unusual to report.
10 Feb 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with some rain. M/V Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with rations and supplies. After unloading proceeded to Namu. Work on the beacon is proceeding well. Ground mat should be finished shortly and antennae work will move much faster after that. Movie in rec hall in evening.
11 Feb 44
Weather clear and bright. The weather lately has been quite changeable with alternate good and bad days. Skeena Maid returned from Namu with mail and supplies and departed for Bella Bella with personnel and mail. Nothing unusual to report.
12 Feb 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with light rain. M/V Jaeger arrived from Bella Bella with the commanding officer W/C Emery aboard. F/O Rogers, marine officer, F/O Carver, W&B and Lt Meyers RCA accompanied him. The trip was to locate site for 75 mm gun which it is proposed to install here. After a short inspection the party departed.
13 Feb 44
Weather clear and bright with some wind. The wood shed is now nearly complete and only needs filling in to make it serviceable. It is proposed to make most of the fill with drift wood and the finish with gravel. Wood cutting gang is proceeding very well.
14 Feb 44
Weather continues clear and bright and spirits are as usual reflecting the good weather. M/V Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with mail and supplies and after unloading departed for Namu. Calamity has overtaken us in the fact that our motion picture projector has become u/s. The bi weekly movies will be sorely missed. Arrangements are being made to have it repaired as soon as possible.
15 Feb 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with light rain. Skeena Maid returned from Namu with mail and supplies and departed for Bella Bella. Nothing unusual to report.
16 Feb 44
Weather clearing slightly although still remaining cloudy and dull. F/S McGregor and 9 CMU party have almost finished the installation of ground mat for new beacon. Cpl Macklon is progressing very well. Beacon should be operational before the end of the month.
17 Feb 44
Weather clear and bright. M/V Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with rations and supplies. After unloading departed for Namu. Routine duties being performed. Radar equipment working very well. Nothing unusual to report.
18 Feb 44
Weather remains clear and bright. Skeena Maid returned from Namu with extra messing, mail and supplies and departed immediately for Bella Bella. Nothing unusual to report.
19 Feb 44
Weather continues clear and bright. M/V Snow Prince arrived from Bella Bella to pick up material left by No 9 CMU. Took off donkey, caterpillar and much small equipment. Small dock received quite a pounding during the operation and should be repaired. Normal routine prevailing.
20 Feb 44
Weather continues to be very surprising. No rain now for four days which establishes some kind of a record for Spider Island. Nothing unusual to report.
21 Feb 44
The beautiful weather is continuing today. A new event occurred for the first recorded time at Spider Island, dust was visible on the road. Sgt Chorlton arrived by aircraft from WAC to superintend the final stages of assembling the beacon. The ground mat is finished. One antennae has been completed and the transmitter is nearly ready for operation. Two or three days should see the final steps taken. M/V Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with personnel and equipment. After unloading departed for Namu.
22 Feb 44
Weather continues clear and bright. M/V Skeena Maid returned from Namu and departed for Bella Bella. Transformer to be installed at beacon site has not yet arrived. Auxiliary power unit has been installed so that beacon will be able to operate. Nothing unusual to report.
23 Feb 44
Weather continues very fair and bright. Stranraer over from Bella Bella in morning with party of officers. These were F/L Springborn, the chaplain; F/O Carver, W&B; F/O Long, Signals; P/O Aitken, signals; and P/O Wright, DAPM. The aircraft returned in the afternoon and party departed but padre remained. MF Beacon now operating from dawn to dusk using APU. Padre held church service and communion in evening.
24 Feb 44
Weather continues fair. M/V Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with rations and supplies. F/L Marshall accountant officer arrived on the Skeena Maid and held February pay parade. The motion picture projector having been repaired, a show was held in the canteen.
25 Feb 44
Weather continues fair and bright. Skeena Maid returned from Namu with mail and supplies. After unloading proceeded to Bella Bella. F/L Marshall and F/L Springborn departed with her. Nothing unusual to report.
26 Feb 44
Weather continues to be very fair. This has been an amazing run of good weather. Aircraft over from Bella Bella bringing F/L Arthur medical officer and F/L Craig of command treade test board. Also on the aircraft were F/S Saunders and party from 3 Repair Depot to do the quarterly overhaul. Normal routine prevailing.
27 Feb 44
Weather continues fair. Stranraer over from Bella Bella and F/L Craig and F/L Arthur departed. Nothing out of the ordinary.
28 Feb 44
Weather continues fair with a few clouds in the sky. M/V Skeena Maid arrived from Bella Bella with personnel and supplies. Station has been off the air since 0900 hours this morning for the quarterly overhaul. Transformer for the MF Beacon has arrived and is being installed. Men being free from shift duties due to overhaul are being used on various jobs around station.
29 Feb 44
Weather cloudy and overcast with some rain. Skeena Maid returned from Namu and departed for Bella Bella after unloading. Several men proceeding on posting. Nothing unusual to report.
Personnel on strength: officers - 3, airmen - 60.
(JH Davies) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
No 9 Detachment, RCAF,
Spider Island, BC.
1 Mar 44
Weather cloudy. Some rain and wind. Nothing unusual to report.
2 Mar 44
Weather overcast and broken, rain at times. Skeena Maid arrives with mail and supplies.
3 Mar 44
Weather clear most of day. P/O Crease leaves on a 48 to Ocean Falls.
4 Mar 44
Weather, clear, sunny day. Work begun on new stone boat for hauling garbage etc.
5 Mar 44
Weather clear most of the day. Some clouds during day time. An excellent supper was enjoyed by the men.
6 Mar 44
Weather squalls, scattered showers. Weather cool but tolerable. P/O Crease returns with Skeena Maid. Movie tonight. Nothing unusual to report.
7 Mar 44
Weather cool but pleasant. F/O Davies left on posting to No 3 RD accompanied by P/O Smoke who was proceeding to Bella Bella on TD. A hearty farewell was rendered by the men of the station to Mr Davies. R/T was tested on new frequency 3505 KC in attempting to eliminate interference from MF Beacon. A general housecleaning followed.
8 Mar 44
Weather cloudy with spasmodic rain. P/O Crease in charge of station all day as OC was at Bella Bella. Armament of station was located and checked for report. Nothing unusual to report.
9 Mar 44
Weather continues cloudy with rain. Strong winds during the latter part of the day. Gantry locked down shortly after midnight and unlocked about 4 AM. Skeena Maid had difficulty in the open waters. Rations arrived.
10 Mar 44
Weather continues to be rainy and cloudy. Work continues in office. Commanding Officer straightening files. RCA men almost completed their work on FM Towers. Nothing unusual occurred all day.
11 Mar 44
Weather still cloudy with some rain. Equipment Section reorganized, cleaned and generally straightened out.
12 Mar 44
Beautiful sunny day although air rather chilly. Boys in camp anxious about the possibility of a visit by an entertainment troupe now at Bella Bella. A bridge and cribbage tournament held in the evening. Bridge winners were P/Os Crease and Smoke. News reached camp late this evening of the entertainment troupe's intention to perform here Monday afternoon.
13 Mar 44
Weather clear and bright. With Skeena Maid arrived the entertainment troupe sponsored by the "Service Shows". The show was staged by 8 versatile actors, singers and musicians, commencing at 1:30 pm. The show was enjoyed immensely by the men. The arrival of two RCA men to construct towers for the FM unit was noted. Cpl Bell, telephone man, also arrived to install additional telephones and make some alterations. Two Radar Operators reported from Marble Island - FL Evans and WJ DeBlois.
14 Mar 44
Weather cooler and cloudy all day. Rained during evening. Work continuing on FM Unit Towers and telephones. W&B Section has completed a new desk for operators at the Ops Building. A smoker is being held tonight. P/O Crease left on TD to Bella Bella late this evening.
15 Mar 44
Rained most of the day. Some work is being continued on towers of FM transmitters. Strong winds during day. New operator's desk.
16 Mar 44
Weather extremely unfavourable. Rain and strong winds all day. Skeena Maid anchored at Namu, BC. No motion picture tonight. Work is continued in compiling material for local paper "The Spider WEB". Gantry locked about 10 pm, unlocked early next morning.
17 Mar 44
Weather not favourable for outside activities. Work continues on composition of paper "The Spider WEB". The Skeena Maid arrived with motion picture "Appointment in Berlin". Mr Crease, P/O returned with ship. LAC Gebhard returned from Bella Bella after several months in the hospital there. Early this morning information reached us that an aircraft was missing. Two tracks were plotted during the morning - possibly some craft.
18 Mar 44
Weather continues to be changeable. Spasmodic rains. Work commenced on laying of battleship linoleum in canteen. Considerable work done in Orderly Room and OCs office in straighteningup filing. The first edition of the Spider Web finally out in print. R/T Section constructed new ground for AT3s. Temporary line put up from APV to R/T section.
19 Mar 44
Weather quite favourable most of the day, cloudy occasionally. Nothing important occurred during the day. Reorganzing of files in office and OR. At 2300 fuse at power plant blew, leaving Administration Building and Canteen in darkeness. Repairs made and lights were on again within 20 minutes.
20 Mar 44 Weather sunny and warm. Skeena Maid no longer our boat. P/O Miller arrived about 1320 with new ship "The Stuart". Two new arrivals - Cpl Elliott (OP) and Cpl McLean (Fit Diesel). New ground installed in R/T Section. Guard telephone out of order. Motion picture tonight, "Footlight Serenade". R/T communication wirth Prince Rupert (Mudrick) re proficiency tests. 21 Mar 44 Weather very stormy, gale during morning. The gantry was locked all morning till about 1140 am. The Stuart did not arrive as expected. As there was no mail the last two films were shown as a double feature during the evening. Long awaited posting for Cpl Britton reached here by signal this evening. Tree fell and stretched one wire of our high line. 22 Mar 44 Weather cloudy with some showers. The Stuart still has not arrived. Faulty dial on AT3 caused WOG to operate on wrong channel with repercussion from WAC. During the evening the weather turned cooler with some snow. 23 Mar 44 Weather began with sunny and clear sky. Spasmodic showers and snow throughout the day. During DIs repair was accomplished to HT line. Telephone cable to Guard Hut also repaired. Stuart arrived about 4 pm but returned to Goose Island. It is not returning Friday as usual. 48s and the two posted men, Britton and Chambers were rushed. No movie tonight. Canteen is being heated for glueing of linoleum Friday night. 24 Mar 44 Sun shining all day. Some snow during early evening. No unusual incidents. Several A/C flew over Island, the majority American. MF Beacon being utilized by A/C. Work of laying and glueing linoleum commenced in Rec Hall at 6:30 pm, completed by 9:15 pm. More paste required to complete reading room. 25 Mar 44 Weather was very sunny all day with a few scattered clouds. During the evening there was some snow. Work was completed on a tow line at the Guard Shack to haul wood from back of the shack to the road. The Guard Shack telephone line was repaired. No unusual incident occurred all day. 26 Mar 44 Rifles were issued to all airmen who had not been issued one to date. New loan cards prepared Saturday were being used to record loaned articles, giving HQ a complete check-up on articles out. 27 Mar 44 The Suart arrived with the new OC, F/L McKenzie. Padre of Bella Bella, F/L Springborn also arrived and conducted a Service in the evening which was well attended. F/L Marshall also arrived with the monthly pay roll. 28 Mar 44 P/O Smoke departed for a 4 month Signal course in Winnipeg. Most of the day was spent checking inventories. 29 Mar 44 The new OC P/O McKenzie spent most of the day familiarizing himself with the camp lay out and activities. 30 Mar 44 Busy on month end statements and reports. 31 Mar 44 Boat arrived at 0930 and departed with personnel proceeding on 48. Operations normal and satisfactory. Personnel on strength: 3 officers and 54 airmen. (HL McKenzie) P/O,
Officer Commanding,
No 9 Detachment, RCAF,
Spider Island, BC.
1- 2 Apr 44
Clear and bright, lovely weather. Operations normal. Equipment in excellent condition. The new Officer Commanding, P/O McKenzie has been here one week and has had an opportunity to get acquainted with the camp. The Radar Operational Section is in excellent condition and the equipment is well looked after. F/S Grunberg is to be commended on his fine job.
The defence system is not well organized due to shortage of personnel. One Sergeant and six corporals have been posted in and when they arrive, courses will be conducted on all armament and the situation rectified.
Cpl Jackson is also to be commended for his fine work as carpenter. He has been on the station for almost a year. He is an efficient and tireless worker and has made dozens of improvements around the camp.
The Mess Hall was found in excellent conditon and the food served is above standard. Cpl Blasius is very capable in this department.
A crew from 9 CMU are undertaking overhaul of the diesel equipment. The present equipment is overloaded but arrangements are being made to install a new line to ease the situation.
Other sections, such as MT, Hospital, Canteen are operating efficiently.
Wood cutting is progressing favourably with a large supply on hand.
There are many recreational activities on the station. Two shows a week, tournaments of various kinds, station paper, (The Spider Web), smokers, etc. An Entertainment Committee takes care of these matters. There is however a need for outdoor sports and plans are underway to construct a volley ball and badminton court.
To sum up, the whole station is running well and morale is high.
2 Apr 44
Checking of inventory progressing favourably with still a lot of work to be done. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella with mail and some rations and two postings. Sgt Beck, Service Police, arrived to take over policing duties and to organize the Island for defence according to latest Defence Program. The Stuart departed immediately, taking one mechanic on annual leave and one operator on Special Leave (Jewish Religious Holiday). F/O Miller, skipper of the M/V Stuart, informs us that he is taking leave and will be temporarily replaced. No picture show arrived and men very disappointed. Operations and camp routine running smoothly.
4 Apr 44
Overcast with some rain, windy in the evening. Barrack NCOs appointed and program of duties and responsibilities drawn up. Meeting in the evening of Senior NCOs to discuss various camp problems. It was intended to shift barracks around to keep all trades together but feeling around camp was very much against this as many had made fast friends among their roommates as well as many other points we had not considered. Final result is that we left distribution as it was. New arrivals, however, will be posted to proper barracks. Fish and chip feed in the evening, fish being supplied by our local fishermen. Operations and routine running smoothly.
5 Apr 44
Clear and bright with a few scattered showers. Equipment working satisfactorily. Organization of Service Police proceeding favourably.
6 Apr 44
Clear and bright with showers toward evening. Operations at the point were normal. Having considerable trouble in the signals section with interference from the MF Beacon. Something will have to be done to remedy this. Reorganized the system of fatigue duties. The various barrack blocks, under supervision of the Senior NCO will supervise all fatigue duties for a period of a week in turn. The boat did not arrive today as per schedule much to the disappoint of all. Marked the proficiency test and the results were very good.
7 Apr 44
Raining all day and very miserable. The M/V Stuart arrived at 1030 bringing back one man from TD at Bella Bella, also the mail, rations, and other miscellaneous articles. Four men left on 48s to Ocean Falls. We had to supply a cook for the boat as the regular cook was going on leave. Show in the evening, was enjoyed by all.
8 Apr 44
Cloudy with showers. Operations at point normal and camp life running smoothly.
9 Apr 44
Overcast with some rain. New shelving in stores room painted and whole room put in order. Operations normal. Nothing to report.
10 Apr 44
Station Compound Orders issued for Technical Compound. This is the first time these have been issued on the station. The boat did not call today due to weather conditions. Great interest taken in the prospect of building a volley ball court. Site has been picked and some of the more interested personnel are draining and clearing the site.
11 Apr 44
Some frost during the night but the day started out clear and bright and turned out to be a lovely day. Building of hut for auxiliary power supply for MF Beacon almost complete. Picked out site for new towers and hauling of gravel and clearing of site will commence immediately. M/V Stuart arrived at 1930 hours bringing two new Service Police. Also Sgt Reid arrived to assist in the Ground Warfare Training. Picture show in the afternoon and evening. No beer or cokes arrived to the disgust of the camp personnel.
12 Apr 44
Clear and bright in the morning and extending well towards evening. Rain started shortly after 1800 hrs. Barrack inspection carried out in the morning. Barrack Blocks were found in excellent condition and personnel commended for their efforts. Meeting at 1330 hrs with Sgt Beck and Sgt Reid to organize Ground Warfare Training. Organization set up to train twelve men every 6 days. Training will be in addition ot the normal day's work and to start Friday morning. Thursday will be spent constructing gun posts and setting up mounts.
At 2305 Station placed on No 1 Alert and Bella Bella notified. Unidentified shot heard at 2215 by two service police on duty and mechanic on duty
13 Apr 44
Clear and bright. Aircraft from Bella Bella arrived in the morning with three officers. P/O Pratt came for the purpose of checking on our W&B requirements. Last night's cause of alert has not been explained but the station is back to normal. M/V Stuart arrived in the morning bringing one airman back from Dental Parade and two airmen to inspect fire equipment. Show in the afternoon and in the evening was enjoyed by all.
14 Apr 44
M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and departed almost immediately for Bella Bella. Ground Warfare training courses started today. These will be conducted morning and afternoon for 5 weeks until entire personnel is trained.
15 Apr 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal with little to report.
16 Apr 44
Lovely day. Equipment working well but having difficulty getting through on R/T to Rupert. Modification being placed on transmitter in an endeavour to reduce frequency to 1700 KC.
17 Apr 44
Clear and bright, a lovely day. Works and Buildings personnel are working on a new IFF Tower. M/V Stuart arrived at 1245 bring mail, beer, rations, and postings. Three Service Police arrived bringing establishment up to strength in that section. F/S Brett from 9 CMU arrived to check over the power house situation. Show was shown in the afternoon and evening.
18 Apr 44
Dull day. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu with mail. Departed almost immediately. Departing from the Island were two operators on posting, the diesel repair crew, and two airmen for medical attention. Operations normal. Ground Warfare Courses progressing favourably. Second edition of the station paper, The Spider Web, was published.
19 Apr 44
The day started clear and bright, showers in the afternoon. Having considerable trouble with the R/T line and every effort being made to correct this. Barrack Block inspection held and barracks found in very good condition. Ground Warfare Courses are progressing favourably.
20 Apr 44
Bright and sunny, a lovely day. M/V Stuart arrived at 1235 hrs bringing four airmen back from Medical, Dental, and TD. Also four airmen from No 9 CMU to repair Beacon aerials. Rations and miscellaneous supplies arrived. Moving picture show in the afternoon and evening. P/O Crease left on TD to Namu.
21 Apr 44
Dull and overcast. M/V Stuart called on its way back to Bella Bella from Namu. P/O Crease returned from TD at Namu. F/S Grunberg and Cpl Dundas departed on TD to Vancouver. General meeting of all station personnel was held in the evening to discuss various recreational problems. Meeting was a huge success.
22 Apr 44
Raining all day. Having trouble trying to arrange an alternative telling frequency between operations and Rupert. Two meetings held in the evening, messing committee and entertainment committee. Plans are progressing favourably.
23 Apr 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. Bridge Tournament held at night followed by a Sing Song.
24 Apr 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived 1300 hrs but returned immediately to Bella Bella. Cpl Wright reported for duty. Show in evening and afternoon.
25 Apr 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. Aircraft arrived in the evening bringing P/O Shaw as supernumerary Radar Officer. P/O Crease left on posting to No 3 Wireless School, Winnipeg.
26 Apr 44
Sunny and clear. Operations normal. Norseman arrived from Bella Bella bearing paymaster and S/L Hornell who introduced and left forms pertaining to the Sixth Victory Loan, announcing our quota as $2000.00. A jam session was held in the rec hall where a quiz programme and impromptu entertainment met with the camp's approval.
27 Apr 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. A four star day. The M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella carrying as passengers a personnel officer and an entertainment troupe from Vancouver. The troupe proved to be highly entertaining and as a token of appreciation was transported by MT via plank road to our lumbering center where the members veiwed the reported second largest tree on the island, which was felled this morning.
28 Apr 44
Bright and clear. Operations normal. Inventory checks of barrack blocks, mess hall, hospital and abluton hut carried out.
29 Apr 44
Weather favourable, scattered showers. Operations running somoothly. Inventory checks continued . Signals interference casued by M/F Beacon continues.
30 Apr 44
Scattered showers. Operations running smoothly. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella transporting three postings to our Detachment. In the evening a comedy film met with the camp's approval.
Personnel on strength: 3 officers and 54 airmen.
(HL McKenzie) P/O,
Officer Commanding,
No 9 Detachment, RCAF,
Spider Island, BC.
1 May 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Stuart returned from Namu and proceeded on to Bella Bella. Cpls Blower and Sharratt proceeded on leave.
2 May 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. Meeting of the entertainment committee was held in the officer's lounge and each member volunteered to be responsible for one evening's entertainment; dates to be decided later.
3 May 44
Cloudy, scattered showers. Operations according to schedule. A bingo game proved very entertaining during the evening. The thoughts of Spring have rallied the boys to camp beautification.
4 May 44
Occasional scattered clouds but sunshine prevailed. The M/V Stuart arrived from Namu but left in a short time due to 9 CMU personnel aboard. P/O McKenzie left for Bella Bella aboard the M/V Stuart to clarify several matters regarding Air Force administration.
5 May 44
Weather continues to be very pleasing. Operations very satisfactory.
6 May 44
Weather very clear and bright. Operations normal. The afternoon was spent in a general clean-up and a marked improvement in grounds surrounding the barracks is pleasingly noticed. The grounds being drained, cleared, and levelled is showing marked progress.
7 May 44
Operations normal. A bridge tournament proved highly interesting and competition was vey keen.
8 May 44
Weather fair. Operations very satisfactory. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella towing the barge laden with lumber, concrete and gravel for the gantry foundation. A mooring buoy also arrived.
9 May 44
Weather perfect in all respects. Operations as scheduled. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu, leaving immediately for Bella Bella.
10 May 44
Occasional showers. Operations normal. A jam session was thoroughly enjoyed in the rec hall in the evening.
11 May 44
Outstanding weather. Operations very favourable. Our rations were checked by an Army Service Corps representative who arrived by plane from Bella Bella.
12 May 44
Scattered showers. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and left for Bella Bella, carrying 6 from our Detachment on 48 hour pass to Ocean Falls.
13 May 44
Weather fair and sunny. Operations normal.
14 May 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations very satisfactory. A bridge tournament, met with favourable comment, created a friendly fireside atmosphere in the evening.
15 May 44
Operations according to schedule. A detachment from No 9 CMU arrived on the M/V Stuart to make required repairs to our dock.
16 May 44
Scattered showers and strong winds. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and left soon after for Bella Bella, carrying as passengers P/O O'Callaghan of No 9 CMU. The foundation for our new gantry is nearing completion.
17 May 44
Weather cloudy with scattered showers. Operations normal.
18 May 44
Weather cloudy and damp, occasional showers. The M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella carrying as passengers an installation party to replace the aerial on the ASV Beacon.
19 May 44
Weather very windy accompanied with almost continuous rain. Operations according to schedule.
20 May 44
Weather stormy in the morning, clearing up around 1100 hrs. Operations normal. A Norseman aircraft arrived from Bella Bella bringing supplies and mail to No 9 CMU personnel.
21 May 44
Weather cloudy and cool, occasional showers. Operations normal. A Norseman arrived from Bella Bella carrying as passenger an electrician to view the power distribution problem.
22 May 44
Weather - fog early in the morning, clearing soon, bright and clear the remainder of the day. Operations favourable. The Norseman arrived from Bella Bella to return the electrician to Bella Bella. The M/V Stuart arrived bringing an overhaul crew to conduct the quarterly overhaul on the CHL gear. Two Radar Operators arrived from Marble Island.
23 May 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. A meeting was held in the evening when the station personnel were informed of the canteen and messing conditions. A smoker followed the meeting and proved to be first rate entertainment.
24 May 44
Weather continued clear and bright. Operations - the quarterly overhaul begun on the CHL, shutdown having been confirmed by WAC.
25 May 44
Weather fair. Overhaul continues on the CHL gear. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella bringing F/L Springborn. A church service was held in the evening.
26 May 44
Weather cloudy and damp. Overhaul continued. M/V Stuart returned from Namu proceeding to Bella Bella.
27 May 44
Weather moderately clear and warm. Overhaul continued. Norseman arrived from Bella Bella bringing as passengers the paymaster accompanied by a Sergeant and two OR's who checked the canteen inventory.
28 May 44
Weather clear and bright. Overhaul continued. A bridge tournament proved of interest and was highly attended.
29 May 44
Weather occasional showers in the evening. Operations resumed, overhaul having been completed. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella and proceeded to Namu.
30 May 44
Weather cloudy and cool. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and proceeded to Bella Bella.
31 May 44
Weather rainy and cool. Operations favourable. Norseman arrived from Bella Bella carrying a BC Telephone, Northern Electric, and RCA Representative (three in all) who immediately began FM installation.
Personnel on strength: 2 officers and 60 airmen.
(HL McKenzie) P/O,
Officer Commanding,
No 9 Detachment, RCAF,
Spider Island, BC.
1 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella.
2 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and proceeded on to Bella Bella. A Norseman arrived returning Cpl Allen to the Island.
3 Jun 44
Weather cloudy and mild. Operations according to schedule. Norseman arrived and transported the civilian FM installation crew to Bella Bella.
4 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. Part of the day was spent in a general clean up about the camp. A bridge tournament was held in the evening.
5 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. General clean up continued. M/V Stuart arrived bringing a much needed chef to our Detachment.
6 Jun 44
Weather continued bright. Operations normal. The "Joe Boys" under F/L Lister arrived from Bella Bella and their programme was much appreciated.
7 Jun 44
QMS Tate, RCASC arrived from Bella Bella to instruct the chef in charge the manner of making out Detachment indents. Educational films "One Day of War" and "Inside Russia" were shown in the evening. Weather clear and bright. Operations normal.
8 Jun 44
Weather continued fair. Operations according to schedule. The Padre and Educational Officer arrived from Bella Bella by aircaft. A church service held in the evening was well attended. The show of the evening "Sahara" was outstanding entertainment.
9 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations satisfactory. QMS Tate, the Padre and Educational Officer returned to Bella Bella on the M/V Stuart. Two postings departed on isolation leave previous to reporting to Sea Island.
10 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. Canso a/c arrived from Bella Bella in the late afternoon transporting 12 personnel to the airmen's dance in Bella Bella. Telling line to Prince Rupert was unserviceable approximately 3 hours.
11 Jun 44
Weather continued clear but cold. Operations satisfactory. Catalina a/c arrived in the afternoon bringing personnel to the Detachment who attended the Bella Bella dance Saturday evening.
12 Jun 44
Weather continued clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella and left almost immediately for Namu.
13 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations according to schedule. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and left almost immediately to Bella Bella, taking as passengers two airmen on annual leave and one posted to WAC.
14 Jun 44
Weather bright and sunny. Operations normal. The M/V Cape Canso arrived in the late afternoon leaving road planking and taking out 9 CMU equipment which has been in storage here the past several months.
15 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. F/L Marshall and F/S McCarthy arrived from Bella Bella by a/c to check Canteen stock in view of suspected robbery. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella and proceeded to Namu.
16 Jun 44
Weather cloudy and occasional sprinkles. Operations satisfactory. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and proceeded on to Bella Bella, returning F/L Marshall and F/S McCarthy to that station.
17 Jun 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations satisfactory. A/C arrived from Bella Bella carrying Mr Hemington of Northern Electric and F/S Meakin to our Detachment to install FNM equipment and make tests. Bingo monopolized the evening.
18 Jun 44
Weather cloudy. Operations satisfactory. Bridge was widely enjoyed in the evening.
19 Jun 44
Weather cloudy. Operations normal. M/V Stuart failed to arrive as scheduled. Shuffle Board predominated the evening.
20 Jun 44
Weather very cloudy with fog in the morning. Operations according to schedule. F/O GB Lea arrived via a/c to carry on his investigation as Investigating Officer regarding the canteen theft. Lt Brebber, a sergeant assistant, and a sergeant Hospital Assistant arrived via the same a/c and a dental parade was conducted.
21 Jun 44
Weather cloudy with sunshine occasionally predominating. Operations normal. F/O Lea and F/O HL McKenzie proceeded to Bella Bella via Norseman. Sports Day proved very enjoyable in the afternoon when volley ball, horseshoes, ping-pong, shuffleboard and floor hockey were widely played by personnel not on duty.
22 Jun 44
Weather cloudy. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella & proceeded on to Namu. F/L Springborn arrived on the M/V Stuart and a church service was held in the evening followed by the film "The North Star". F/O McKenzie and F/O Lea went to Bella Bella via a/c in the evening.
23 Jun 44
Weather cloudy with rain. Operations satisfactory.
24 Jun 44
F/O McKenzie returned via a/c from TD at Bella Bella. Pay Parade was held in the afternoon. Mr Hemington of the Northern Electic returned via a/c to Bella Bella.
25 Jun 44
Fire Committee was appointed and meeting held to organize fire fighting services and redraft Fire Orders.
26 Jun 44
Ground Warfare course commenced with 6 airmen enrolled. M/V Stuart arrived with rations and proceeded to Namu. Show in the afternoon and evening was enjoyed by all.
27 Jun 44
M/V Stuart returned from Namu and proceeded to Bella Bella. Four airmen left on annual leave and one on TD. A Practice No 1 Alert held in the morning which was very successful.
28 Jun 44
Rained all day. Sports afternoon had to be cancelled.
29 Jun 44
Periodic rains. Fire Drill had to be called off. A/C arrived with an airman to take month-end Canteen Stock, also YMCA representative from Bella Bella and WAC arrived to check over the general sports situation. Show in the afternoon and evening.
30 Jun 44
Cloudy with scattered showers. All operations progressing satisfactory. Ground Warfare course No 20 completed. Aircraft called in the evening with mail from Namu and proceeded immediately to Ocean Falls with two airmen on 48 hour passes.
Personnel on strength: 2 officers and 58 airmen.
(HL McKenzie) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
No 9 Detachment, RCAF,
Spider Island, BC.
1 Jul 44
Cloudy with rain. Very quiet all day. The afternoon was declared a holiday to all those not on essential duties.
2 Jul 44
Somewhat brighter but scattered showers. Operations normal and satisfactory.
3 Jul 44
Promises of summer weather are again with us. Clean up of the wood shed to the dock was held in the morning with favourable results. M/V Stuart arrived with five passengers, including two back from leave, two new Radar Operators and a new WEM. Official mail was exceedingly large. Show in the afternoon was enjoyed by all.
4 Jul 44
Operations normal and satisfactory. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu with Official Mail and also with personal mail and proceeded immediately to Bella Bella. Two airmen left on posting, F/S Grunberg, JH And LAC Sullivan, WPP. Fire Drill was held at 1900 hours.
5 Jul 44
Dull and scattered showers. Operations normal. New course was started on Ground Warfare. Inspection of barracks indicated that all was in satisfactory conditions. Revised edition of Detachment Standing Orders was issued to all sections. Mess meeting was conducted in the evening followed by an educational film.
6 Jul 44
Clear and bright - a really lovely day. M/V Stuart arrived; had engine trouble and stayed over night. Aircraft brought Padre Springborn over to deliver his last service before proceeding overseas. He will be missed by all here. Show was held in the evening followed by a meeting of the entertainment committee.
7 Jul 44
M/V Stuart departed for Bella Bella with two airmen proceeding on 48 hr. passes. Operations normal.
8 Jul 44
Clear and bright with operations normal. Wood cutting is proceeding excellently with an endeavour being made to fill the wood shed in one month.
9 Jul 44
Clear and bright - operations normal. Work started on clearing a space for a sports field.
10 Jul 44
M/V Snipe arrived with rations and airmen returning from pass and leave. Returned immediately to Bella with three airmen on dental parade and two on leave. Installation crew arrived from 3 RD to instal a new aerial. Camp is quite upset over irregular boat service and the fact that personal mail had not been received for two trips.
11 Jul 44
Rained all day with high winds. Aerial had to be locked down. Progress on wood cutting, construction of playing field and installation of new aerial had to be suspended. Bingo in the evening with free coffee and sandwiches met with approval of the camp in general.
12 Jul 44
Rained all day and outside activities were curtailed. Shuffle board tournament in the evening.
13 Jul 44
Rained all day. No outside activity. Boat did not arrive again today. Personal mail two weeks overdue.
14 Jul 44
Raining all day. M/V Snipe arrived from Bella Bella and returned immediately without picking up personal mail. No outside activity.
15 Jul 44
Rain has cleared up and it turned out to be a nice day. Wood cutting operations renewed. Two airmen took motor boat to Namu and got personal mail which was two weeks overdue. Minor troubles in Radar equipment were rectified. Completed painting the rec hall.
16 Jul 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. Bridge tournament in the evening.
17 Jul 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Snipe arrived in the morning with rations and canteen supplies. Personal mail was not picked up again today and the much looked for movie did not arrive. A smoker at night was enjoyed by all.
18 Jul 44
A lovely summer day. Wood cutting progressing favourably. Volley ball took up the evening until darkness. Operations normal.
19 Jul 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Snipe arrived from Bella Bella with oil supplies for the power house. It returned immediately. Wood cutting proceeding favourably. Painting of kitchen and mess underway. Progress was made on the badminton court. Show in the evening.
20 Jul 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal.
21 Jul 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Snipe arrived in the morning and departed almost immediately with five men on 48 and one on TD. Aircraft arrived in the morning and picked up one man on TD to Bella Bella. No personal mail was received on either the aircraft or boat so Commanding Officer of Bella Bella was phoned for some action and proper attention to the personal mail problem. Aircraft was promised in the morning.
22 Jul 44
Rained all day. Personal mail did not arrive. Morale has definitely dropped considerably due mainly to the apparent neglect that is being given to the personal mail situation.
23 Jul 44
Rain all day. Operations normal. M/V Snipe arrived from Bella Bella bringing personal mail, movie, canteen supplies together with thirteen airmen back from leave, 48 hour pases, dental parade and TD. A lovely day, which, together with the arrival of mail supplies has boosted the general morale around camp considerably.
24 Jul 44
No entry
25 Jul 44
Sunny day. Aircraft arrived in the morning from Bella Bella, bringing W/C Dennis, Commanding Officer of Bella Bella Station. F/O Pratt, W&B, Paymaster and a 9 CMU officer. W/C Dennis made a thorough inspection of the camp and installations and seemed satisfied with its general condition. Radar equipment was off the air for approximately ten hours due to a series of faults.
26 Jul 44
M/V Snipe called in the afternoon and proceeded immediately to Bella Bella with ten airmen to attend a Sports Day there. Operations normal. Wood cutting project completed with enough wood stored to last approximately one year.
27 Jul 44
Aircraft arrived from Bella Bella bringing back airmen from Sports Day.
28 Jul 44
Building of badminton court progressed favourably. M/V Sooke arrived in the morning from Bella Bella bringing mail and supplies. Also three airmen reported for duty.
29 Jul 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal.
30 Jul 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. Bridge and cribbage tournament in the evening.
31 Jul 44
Clear and bright. The M/V Sooke arrived from Bella Bella bringing supplies, mail, film etc. It left for Namu as soon as unloaded. Show in evening.
Personnel on strength: 2 officers and 56 airmen.
(HL McKenzie) P/O,
Officer Commanding,
No 9 Detachment, RCAF,
Spider Island, BC.
1 Aug 44
M/V Sooke returned from Namu and proceeded to Bella Bella. Cloudy and dull. Operations normal.
2 Aug 44
Cloudy with some rain. Operations normal. Bingo Game held in the evening with free coffee and sandwiches.
3 Aug 44
Cloudy in the morning but cleared up nicely in the afternoon. Badminton Court completed and ready for use. M/V Sooke arrived with supplies, mail and film and proceeded to Namu. Two airmen from the Fire Section arrived from Bella Bella to instruct personnel in equipment to use.
4 Aug 44
Cloudy in the morning but cleared in the afternoon. Operations normal. A Fire Drill held in the morning met with approval of the airmen from the Fire Section at Bella Bella. M/V Sooke arrived from Namu and proceeded on to Bella Bella.
5 Aug 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal.
6 Aug 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. A Bridge Tournament was enjoyed by the camp in the evening.
7 Aug 44
Fog in the early morning, remainder of day being clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Sooke arrived from Bella Bella and left soon after for Bella Bella and Ocean Falls for inspection. The motion picture "Slightly Dangerous" was much enjoyed in the evening.
8 Aug 44
Weather cloudy and cool with occasional showers. Operations according to schedule. Several fishing boats approached within a few hundred yards of the operations point.
9 Aug 44
Weather cloudy and cool with occasional showers. Operations satisfactory.
10 Aug 44
Weather bright and clear. M/V Sooke arrived from Bella Bella and proceeded on to Namu. The canteen was audited by F/O Adrian and Cpl assistant and the Trade Test Officer and WO1 Watts carried out trade tests and interviews. A Norseman arrived and transported the above mentioned to Bella Bella in the late afternoon. The film production "Lily Mars" met with the camp's approval in the evening.
11 Aug 44
Weather very cloudy and very wet. Operations satisfactory. M/V Sooke arrived from Namu and left almost immediately. F/O McKenzie left the island to spend annual leave on Vancouver Island.
12 Aug 44
Weather cloudy and damp in the morning, becoming clear and bright in the afternoon and evening. Operations satisfactory. The ASV Beacon aerial array was found to be shorted and on inspection it was learned rain during the heavy storms of the past few days had entered the insulating bostik.
13 Aug 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations satisfactory. Several airmen enjoyed swimming in the lake 200 yards beyond the intake. Bridge was popular in the evening.
14 Aug 44
Weathe overcast. Occasional showers. M/V Sooke arrived from Bella Bella bringing the Quarterly Overhaul party to this Detachment. The Sooke proceeded on the Namu.
15 Aug 44
Weather clear, bright and warm. The Quarterly Overhaul was begun. S/L Aitkens, CSO from WAC accompanied by F/O Aitken from Bella Bella visited our Detachment. S/L Aitkens carried out a tour of inspection of the entire installations and accommodation area and made recommendations and suggestions for improvement. The M/V Sooke returned from Namu and then proceeded on to Bella.
16 Aug 44
Weather overcast with moderately strong cool winds. Repairs were continued to the road and small dock by personnel released from trade duties by the overhaul.
17 Aug 44
Weather clear and bright. A/C Cockram, accompanied by W/C McCullough and F/L Mathieson visited this Detachment and a very enlighting discussion developed between the airmen of No 9 Detachment and the officers above mentioned and grievances were aired with promise being given that they would be given consideration at Command and AFHQ.
18 Aug 44
Weather ocercast with occasional showers. The overhaul was completed and operations resumed. Our softball team proceeded to Bella Bella by M/V Stuart to play a Bella Bella team and to enjoy the dance being held the evening of 19 Aug.
19 Aug 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. Logs were procured from surrounding islands to build a floating dock supplementary to the present solid dock.
20 Aug 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella and proceeded on to Namu. M/V General lake arrived with F/O Dee and party aboard to install aircraft detection equipment.
21 Aug 44
No entry.
22 Aug 44
Weather cloudy and mild. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and proceeded on to Bella Bella. Installation of ADC equipment was completed.
23 Aug 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal.
24 Aug 44
Weather cloudy and warm. Operations according to schedule. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella and proceeded to Namu. The film production "Coney Island" was enjoyed in the evening.
25 Aug 44
Weather cloudy and damp. Operations satisfactory. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and proceeded to Bella Bella.
26 Aug 44
Weather low lying clouds, continuous rain all day. M/V General Lake arrived with F/O Dee who re-checked ADC equipment.
27 Aug 44
Weather low lying clouds, continuous rain all day. Operations normal.
28 Aug 44
Very foggy in the morning, clearing mid afternoon. Operations normal. A church service was held in the evening followed by the bi-weekly movie.
29 Aug 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Stuart proceeded on to Bella Bella.
30 Aug 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella bringing much needed lumber and then proceeded on to Namu.
31 Aug 44
Personnel on strength: 2 officers and 59 airmen.
HL Shaw for (HL McKenzie) F/O,
Officer Commanding,
No 9 Detachment, RCAF,
Spider Island, BC.
1 Sep 44
Weather clear and bright. Operations satisfactory. M/V Stuart arrived from Namu and proceeded on to Bella Bella.
2 Sep 44
Weather foggy and damp. Operations according to schedule. A gala bingo party was held in the evening.
3 Sep 44
Weather foggy and damp. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella and returned. F/O McKenzie returned from leave and resumed command of the Detachment. F/O Shaw proceeded to Trenton, Ontario to attend a Junior Administrative Course. Show in the evening.
4 Sep 44
Dull and overcast. Radar Equipment off the air most of the day due to modification being made to powerline.
5 Sep 44
Clear and bright. Operations normal. Two Orderly Room cases conducted for airmen reporting late off leave. Educational film shown at night.
6 Sep 44
Clear and bright with operations normal. Weekly inspection held and camp found generally in good condition. General clean-up is underway. Much interest is being shown in badminton tournament. Bridge tournament at night well attended.
7 Sep 44
Dull and cloudy with some fog. Checking inventories throughout camp. Inside of operations building being painted. M/V Stuart arrived and proceeded to Namu. Show in the evening.
8 Sep 44
M/V Stuart departed for Bella Bella. Weather clear, operations normal. Quiz contest in the evening.
9 Sep 44
Clear day. P/O Crease arrived from Bella Bella to take over Adjutant's duties. General camp clean-up in full swing. Bingo game in the evening.
10 Sep 44
Clear day. Operations normal. Considerable sports activity during the day. Card games at night.
11 Sep 44
Clear during morning, overcast from noon on. Clean-up in progress, hydrants painted. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella and proceeded to Namu. Returned after supper and tied up for the night. Show in the evening. Mr Pickard, YMCA stayed for night.
12 Sep 44
Overcast most of the day. Operations normal. M/V Stuart left for Bella Bella at 0815. F/M circuit off at 1930 due to trouble at Bella Coola.
13 Sep 44
Cloudy and rainy off and on all day. F/M on again about 1145. Operations normal.
14 Sep 44
Weather mostly fair. M/V Stuart arrived and proceeded to Namu. Operations normal Show in evening. Equipment assistant posted.
15 Sep 44
Raining most of the day. M/V Stuart returned from Namu with mail and proceeded to Bella Bella. Operations normal.
16 Sep 44
Mostly fair. Operations normal. Badminton tournament under way. Bingo game in the evening.
17 Sep 44
Weather fine and sunny. Operations normal. Badminton going strong. Card games in the evening, bridge and cribbage.
18 Sep 44
Weather overcast and partly rainy. Operations normal. M/V Stuart arrived from Bella Bella with beer ration. Show in the evening.
19 Sep 44
Very rainy all day. M/V Stuart returned from Namu with mail and proceeded to Bella Bella. Discussion underway and arrangements made for station dance Saturday, 23 September. Operations normal.
20 Sep 44
Rainy most of the day. Barrack inspection this morning was very gratifying. Operations normal.
21 Sep 44
Weather mostly fair with some showers. No boat in today. Operations normal. Discussion re dance completed.