If, after flying combat for sometime, an airman showed too much "fright," the squadron flight surgeon would order him to a short period of rest and relaxation. Even the group's commanding officer could not override the surgeon's order. In Italy, the "flak happy" fliers took their R and R at the beautiful Isle of Capri; while in England, "fright burned" were sent to the resort town of Bournemouth.

Bournemouth had wonderful beaches in front of the hotel, but they were of little use, because they were covered with rolls and rolls of barbed wire. We were also told that pipes were installed for some distance out into the water. Oil could be pumped through these pipes.  In case of a German invasion, the oil could be released and set on fire; thus repelling any German invasion.