Just before last  light, Perry took off to reconnoitre the area near Rahman. Two Spitfire fighter squadrons escorted him. Perry reported 800 stationary and dispersed transports near the coast and a further 500 on the southern road. More importantly, there was no evidence of movement or preparation for battle. Later that night, the Eighth Army’s bombardment commenced. Perry took off at first light the following morning to cover the same area to report any changes to the German dispositions. He observed that tanks on transporters were heading east and there was heavy artillery activity. As the battle commenced more sorties were flown throughout the day.

Over the next few days, the squadron flew over the battle area reporting large concentrations of transports and the progress of heavy fighting. Over 1,000 transports ‘digging in’ were reported on the 27th when the squadron conducted an artillery shoot for the 7th Medium Regiment, Royal Artillery. Large tank concentrations were reported on the 28th and the following day, the squadron observed that Rommel was concentrating his forces in the northern area. Montgomery immediately changed his plan.

The squadron’s hard work was recognised when a signal was received from General Horrocks congratulating and thanking the squadron for ‘the excellent tactical reconnaissance reports’. The squadron continued to fly at maximum rates over the next few days despite the loss of two pilots. A major Allied attack was launched on 2 November and the call for Tac R sorties increased. There was a major tank battle on the 3rd when the Axis armoured forces were defeated. By mid-day there were the first signs of an enemy withdrawal and the Eighth Army followed up as Rommel’s forces began a rapid retreat.

Within days, the squadron, together with other Hurricane-equipped squadrons, was withdrawn from the front-line after its period of intense activity and major contribution to the success of the Battle of El Alamein. No. 208 Squadron had played a key role in the crucial Battle of El Alamein and this was recognised by the army commanders who signalled:

“Please convey to all the pilots and other personnel of your squadron my great appreciation of the splendid work done both before and during the present operations. The information they have provided has been of the utmost value to XXX Corps.”

El Alamein 80th - 02

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