Identification & Site Information

• Aircraft Name: Harvard AJ699.

• Type: Advanced Trainer Aircraft.

• Manufacturer: North American Aviation.

• Service Era: World War II.

• Primary Use: Pilot training for Allied forces.

• Final Resting Place: Lake Ontario, off Cobourg; later recovered and repurposed into a monument at Kingston Airport, Ontario.

Aircraft Description

The Harvard AJ699 was a robust and versatile advanced trainer aircraft, part of the North American Harvard series. These aircraft were pivotal in training Allied pilots during World War II, equipping them with the skills necessary for combat operations. Known for their reliability and adaptability, Harvards were used extensively for formation flying, navigation exercises, and emergency drills.

History

Significant Incidents

1. March 26, 1943:

• Pilot: A/LA G. Wakeling.

• Incident: Engine failure at 700 feet forced Wakeling to make an emergency landing west of Collins Bay. He survived with minor injuries.

• Aftermath: Wakeling was transferred to No. 50 Course and later survived another crash in May 1943.

2. May 5, 1943:

• Incident: During night training, Wakeling’s aircraft struck a tree while landing.

• Outcome: Severe head injuries, attributed to not fastening his Sutton harness. Wakeling eventually recovered and returned to the UK.

3. Formation Flying Collision:

• Involved Pilots: A/LA R. L. Bamford (New Zealand) and A/LA Clarabut.

• Incident: While repositioning during a formation exercise, Bamford’s pitot head struck Clarabut’s Harvard AJ657. Clarabut ejected safely and landed on Wolfe Island, crashing through the ice. Bamford faced charges for gross carelessness.

4. Bird Strike Incident:

• Pilots: A/LA Bramwell FX91872 and F/O Johnson.

• Incident: During an over-lake navigation test, their aircraft struck a bird, damaging the leading edge of the main plane. Despite the damage, the crew landed safely.

5. Final Incident – September 3, 1943:

• Pilots: Sgt. Scowcroft and A/LA Holstead.

• Incident: While conducting an over-lake navigation exercise, the aircraft encountered critical issues, forcing both pilots to abandon the Harvard into Lake Ontario near Cobourg. The aircraft sank within 2.5 minutes.

Final Disposition

The Harvard AJ699 was recovered from Lake Ontario after its sinking on September 3, 1943. The remains of the aircraft were repurposed as a monument at Kingston Airport, Ontario, commemorating the aircraft and the many pilots trained on similar Harvards during the war.

Legacy

The Harvard AJ699 monument at Kingston Airport stands as a powerful tribute to the airmen and their rigorous training during World War II. It symbolizes the resilience and dedication of the pilots who overcame challenges and honed their skills aboard training aircraft like the Harvard. The legacy of the AJ699 extends beyond its service history, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices and contributions of Allied airmen.

Resources & Links

• Harvards Above: Dedicated to the history and preservation of Harvard aircraft.

• Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum: Museum showcasing historical aircraft, including the Harvard series.

• Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association: Organization preserving Harvard trainers and their stories.

Keywords

Harvard AJ699, World War II training aircraft, Lake Ontario, Kingston Airport monument, Canadian Harvard trainers, aviation history, Allied pilot training, North American Aviation Harvard.