The original officers and assistants of the section had just returned from operational stations and it was not surprising that vociferous argument raged from time to time in the office and provided welcome diversion in difficult task of grappling frequently with the unknown, but, be it said, not completely unknowable. The fact that the personnel of the section were for some time exclusive male allowed a certain gusto and piquancy in the expression of viewpoint.

Towards the end of 1942 the complement began to include members of the WAAAF, at first Met. Charters and later Met. Assistants. These proved excellent and enthusiastic helpers. It had, however, a restraining influence on certain exuberance and richness of imagery in the discussion of the weather men. They became probably more scientific.

The Unit had to be on the ball at all times in view of the slender resources of the Allied Air Forces at that time, when General Kenney had every available squadron on the job.

Enemy concentration at Rabaul was assuming such proportions that something had to be done about it—and quickly. On the other hand heavy losses could not be afforded and the Air Commander had good reason to fear the weather—it was the north-west season of 1942–43.

The General called on his weather men for the favourable period. After prayer, fasting and close technical discussion, the Unit advised him of a time when conditions would be favourable and the strike proceeded with outstanding success. The Unit was delighted when the General came personally to the section to congratulate it on its effort, later telling some of his experiences as a pilot in the last war. At this stage he also told them that the Jap, because of the rate of his 'plane losses, was already beaten—and although this later proved to be so it was not apparent to the section at that time. Two things will always be associated with General Kenney in the minds of the officers of the Unit—his ability to get things done with maximum results, and his confidence in and admiration of his fighting men, including those of the RAAF.

Bureau of Meteorology