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Lockheed Ventura (Canadian: 320 )

Lockheed Ventura

Source: Wikipedia (Public Domain)
A Lockheed PV-1 Ventura

The Lockheed Ventura is a twin-engine medium bomber and patrol bomber of World War II.

The Ventura first entered combat in Europe as a bomber with the RAF in late 1942. Designated PV-1 by the United States Navy (US Navy), it entered combat in 1943 in the Pacific. The bomber was also used by the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF), which designated it the Lockheed B-34 (Lexington) and B-37 as a trainer. British Commonwealth forces also used it in several guises, including antishipping and antisubmarine search and attack.

The Ventura was developed from the Lockheed Model 18 Lodestar transport, as a replacement for the Lockheed Hudson bombers then in service with the Royal Air Force. Used in daylight attacks against occupied Europe, they proved to have weaknesses and were removed from bomber duty and some used for patrols by Coastal Command.

At the start of the war, Lockheed proposed military conversions of the Lodestar for the RAF as replacement for the Hudson reconnaissance aircraft and the Bristol Blenheim bomber. The first British order was placed in February 1940 for 25 Model 32 as bombers. This was followed by an order for 300 Model 37 with Double Wasp engines, then for a further 375 later in 1940. Lockheed needed more production capacity and nearby Vega Aircraft Corporation was contracted for building the Ventura.

The Ventura was very similar to its predecessor, the Lockheed Hudson. The primary difference was not in layout; rather, the Ventura was larger, heavier, and used more powerful engines than the Hudson. The RAF ordered 188 Venturas in February 1940, which were delivered from mid-1942. Venturas were initially used for daylight raids on occupied Europe but, like some other RAF bombers, they proved too vulnerable without fighter escort, which was difficult to provide for long-range missions. Venturas were replaced by the faster de Havilland Mosquito. The Venturas were transferred to patrol duties with Coastal Command as the Mosquito replaced them in bomber squadrons; 30 went to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and some to the South African Air Force (SAAF). The RAF placed an order for 487 Ventura Mark IIs but many of these were diverted to the USAAF, which placed its own order for 200 Ventura Mark IIA as the B-34 Lexington, later renamed RB-34.

A total of 157 Ventura G.R. Mk. Vs were used operationally by the RCAF from 16 June 1942 to 18 April 1947 in the home defence coastal patrol role in both Eastern and Western Air Command. They were flown by 8, 113, 115, 145, and 149 Squadrons. A further 21 Ventura Mk. Is and 108 Ventura Mk. IIs were used in a training role at 1 Central Flying School, Trenton, Ontario, and at RCAF Station Pennfield Ridge, New Brunswick (RAF No. 34 Operational Training Unit) as part of the BCATP. A total of 21 Mk. Is, 108 Mk. IIs, and 157 G.R. Mk. Vs were in service during this period for a total of 286 aircraft. Wikipedia

Wkikpedia Wikipedia Lockheed Ventura

General Harold A Skaarup Web Page

YouTube YouTube Lockheed Ventura

Kestrek Publications Ventura - Kestrel Publications

CASPIR Aircraft Groups:
RCAF On Strength (286), RCAF 400 Squadron (1), Canadian Aircraft Losses (66)
last update: 2021-12-21 01:33:24

Ventura 2141

s/n
 2141
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5091
Ex USN, BuNo. 33082. Assigned to Eastern Air Command. To stored reserve EAC by 13 Sep 44 2022-01-21
   1943-April-07 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2142

s/n
 2142
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5103
Ex USN, BuNo 33094. Assigned to Eastern Air Command. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "C". Category B damage on 15 April 1944. 0000-01-01
   1943-April-07 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-February-16 Accident: 113 Squadron Loc: Summerside Pei Names: Belanger | Cornell | Desnoyers | West
   1944-October-26 Struck off Strength Write-off. Reduced to spares and produce 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2143

s/n
 2143
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5122
Ex-USN, BuNo. 33113. Assigned to the T&D Establishment at St Hubert, QC. The a/c crashed
during a test flight after an engine failed while final approach on10 Feb 1944 approximately one mile
east of St Hubert. The five crew and passengers escaped with some minor and some serious injuries. The airframe was destroyed by fire and was allocated to No. 9 Repair Depot for salvage. Cat “A” write-off. 2022-01-21
   1943-April-07 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-February-10 Accident: T & D ESTABLISHMENT ROCKLIFFE, ONT Loc: Saint-Hubert Quebec Names: Buir | Daoust | Debuc | Dienne | Ross | Sqartz
   1944-May-29 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2144

s/n
 2144
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5126

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USN, BuNo 33117. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "O". To 34 OTU Pennfield, NB. Struck off, after being lost at sea off Halifax, NS on 3 Jun 1945. The a/c was engaged on a night navigation exercise and went missing. There were no distress calls from the a/c. The crew, Pilot Officer S.M. Harju (pilot), Flight Sergeant R.L. Bouch (Nav), Sgt. R.E. Bough (WAG) and Flight Sergeant W.G.Davidson (WAG), declared “missing” and presumed killed. Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-21
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-June-03 Accident: PENN RIDGE Loc: Sable Is Names: Bouch | Bough | Davidson | Harju
   1945-June-12 Struck off Strength Struck off, after being lost at sea on 3 June 1945. 2019-08-20
1945-June-03 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Robert Leonard Bouch 2023-02-08
1945-June-03 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Roy Edward Bough 2023-02-08
1945-June-03 KIFA RCAF Flight Sergeant William Gordon Davidson 2023-02-11
1945-June-03 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer Sulo Matt Harju 2023-02-12
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2145

s/n
 2145
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5117

Known Squadron Assignments: ;113

Ex-USN, BuNo 33108. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "H". Struck off, after damage by fire after a crash at Sydney, NS on 20 Apr 1944 2022-01-21
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-April-19 Accident: 113 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Baxter | Bowser | Francis | Lemieux | Orr | Rayner
   1944-June-07 Struck off Strength Struck off, after damage by fire on 20 April 1944. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2146

s/n
 2146
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5133

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex-USN, BuNo 33124. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45.
Coded "M". Suffered “C” Cat crash on 1 Mar 1945. 2022-01-21
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2147

s/n
 2147
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5095
Ex USN, BuNo. 33086. Category C damage on 25 March 1945 at RCAF Station Rockcliffe, Ontario. With No. 1 Technigal Signals Unit at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS, sent to storage at Mont Joli, Quebec from there on 1 October 1945. 0000-01-01
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-March-27 Accident: 1 TSU Loc: Rockcliffe Ontario Names: D'aoust | Girard | Hocheberg | Kennedy | Langstaf | Messing | Woodhead
   1947-July-08 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2148

s/n
 2148
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5096

Known Squadron Assignments: ;113

Ex-USN, BuNo. 33087. Assigned to No. 113 Sqn. Struck off after Cat “A” crash on 03 Oct 1943. At
18:39 hrs on 03 oct 1943, the a/c took off from Sidney, NS on a cross country flight ferrying
passengers to Dartmouth, NS. The a/c made a circuit of the aerodrome at very low altitude (50 ft or
less) and then commenced a 2nd circuit. In the 2nd attempt, the a/c pulled up into a steep vertical bank to port, stalled and then crashed to the ground from 250 ft. The cause of the accident was attributed to pilot error in maneuvering a heavily loaded a/c too low and too aggressively. All six onboard the a/c perished. These included: W/C A. Laut (2nd pilot), Flying Officer G.D. Issacs (pilot), WO2 F.L. Tye (Nav), WO2 W.R. Drake (WAG), Flight Sergeant G.P. O’Donnel (WAG) and Flight Lieutenant .B. Ducan (passenger). 2022-01-21
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-October-03 Accident: 113 Squadron Loc: Sydney Names: Drake | Duncan | Isaacs | Laut | O'Donnell | Tyo
   1944-January-17 Struck off Strength Struck off after Category A crash, date unknown. 2019-08-20
1943-October-03 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer William Robert Drake 2021-08-04
1943-October-03 KIA RCAF Flight Lieutenant Robert Bryson Duncan 2023-06-09
1943-October-03 KIA RCAF Flying Officer George Delwin Isaacs 2023-03-03
1943-October-03 KIA RCAF Wing Commander Albin Laut 2023-06-20
1943-October-03 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Frederick Potter O'Donnell 2021-08-17
1943-October-03 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer Francis Lambert Tyo 2023-06-15
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2149

s/n
 2149
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5129

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USN, BuNo. 33120. Assigned to No. 34 OTU in Pennfield, NB. Struck off, after going missing at
sea on 6 Dec 1944. The dual control a/c was on a routine training flight at night when the weather
deteriorated and a/c were recalled to the station. #2149 never returned and was determined to have
crashed approximately 10 mi south of the station in the Bay of Fundy. The two pilots on board, Flight Lieutenant A.S. White and Flight Lieutenant H.C.B. Reynolds, both perished 2022-01-21
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-December-07 Accident: PENN RIDGE Loc: Bay Of Fundy Names: Reynolds | White
   1945-April-28 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-21
1944-December-06 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer Harold Charles Beresford Reynolds 2022-12-30
1944-December-06 KIFA RCAF Flight Lieutenant Albert Stanford White DFC 2023-02-16
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2150

s/n
 2150
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5092
Ex USN, BuNo. 33083. To No. 21 Repair Depot on 23 March 1944 for inspection and report.
To storage on 4 May 1944. Issued from storage to No. 1 Air Command on 8 June 1945. Transferred from Western Hemisphere Organization account to Air Training Organization account on that date. Back to storage on 24 July 1945. Delivered from Air Armament School at Mountain View to Picton, for storage, in November 1945. Pending disposal at No. 5 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit from 6 March 1946. 2016-01-19
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-June-26 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2151

s/n
 2151
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5124
Ex USN, BuNo 33115. Assigned to Eastern Air Command. To stored reserve EAC as of 10
Nov 1944. 2022-01-21
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-June-19 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Bodnarek | Campbell | Marriott
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2152

s/n
 2152
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5125
Ex USN, BuNo 33116. Assigned to Eastern Air Command. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia, c.1943. Coded "N". Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "K". 0000-01-01
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-November-28 Accident: 113 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Belanger | Cornell | Desnoyers | West
   1947-June-27 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2153

s/n
 2153
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5131
Ex USN, BuNo 33122. Assigned to Eastern Air Command. To stored reserve as 13 Sep 1944 2022-01-21
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-June-27 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2154

s/n
 2154
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5139
Ex USN, BuNo. 33130. At RCAF Station Sydney, NS in 1943. To stored reserve on 13 Sep 1944. 2022-01-21
   1943-April-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-August-19 Accident: 113 Squadron Loc: Sydney Airport Names: Burton | Cummings | MacDonald | Sergeant
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2155

s/n
 2155
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5128
Ex USN, BuNo. 33119. Assigned to Eastern Air Command. To stored reserve as 13 Sep 1944. 2022-01-21
   1943-April-27 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-June-26 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2156

s/n
 2156
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5132

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex-USN, BuNo. 33123. Served with No. 145 Squadron. Cat “B” damage on 26 Aug 1944, while serving with No. 113 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Torbay, NF. After a normal but high speed landing, the u/c collapsed at the end of the runway when the a/c was stood on its nose 2022-01-21
   1943-April-27 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-August-26 Accident: 113 RCAF MONCTON Loc: Aerodrome Names: Bowser | Rayher | Sprecklin
   1944-November-06 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2157

s/n
 2157
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5135

Known Squadron Assignments: ;113

Ex-USN, BuNo 33126. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "W".
2022-01-21
   1943-April-27 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength To War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2158

s/n
 2158
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5159
Ex USN, BuNo 33150. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "R". 0000-01-01
   1943-April-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength To War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2159

s/n
 2159
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5157

Known Squadron Assignments: 145

Ex-USN, BuNo 33148. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "P". Suffered “B” Cat crash on 27 Mar 1944. To stored reserve EAC on 13 Oct 1944 2022-01-21
   1943-April-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-March-04 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Stuart Lake Names: Edgley | Harris | Mcmichael | Tanner
1944-March-22 Accident: 4 Repair Depot Loc: Aerodrome Names: Gilbert
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2160

s/n
 2160
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5169

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex USN, BuNo 33160. Based at RCAF Station Gander, Newfoundland. With No. 145 (BR) Squadron in Eastern Air Command, coded "S", by September 1943. Crashed at Torbay, Newfoundland on 2 October 1943, 3 crew killed. Ironically, the aircraft was being flown by senior pilots who were developing a training exercise for engine failure on take-off on instruments, in response to the fatal crash of 2169 a few weeks earlier. One propeller scrapped the ground after lift off, aircraft swerved and crashed. Destroyed by post impact fire. Official report theorized that pilots were distracted by lowering instrument hood just at lift off.Ex-USN, BuNo 33160. , also reported that the pilot raised the u/c prematurely and the a/c’s nose dropped and the starboard propeller contacted the ground. All of the crew onboard perished. These included: S/L R.L. Lee (pilot), Flight Lieutenant E.L Robinson (2nd pilot) and Flying Officer A.F. Daunt (2nd pilot) Allocated to sub-Repair Depot in Gander, NF for reduction to spares and produce. 2022-01-21
   1943-April-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-October-02 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Torbay Names: Daunt | Lee | Robinson
   1944-March-19 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-21
1943-October-02 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Acton Farquhar Daunt 2023-04-30
1943-October-02 KIA RCAF Squadron Leader Richard Le Roy Lee 2023-04-30
1943-October-02 KIA RCAF Flight Lieutenant Edward Lapage Robinson DFC 2023-04-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2161

s/n
 2161
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5141
Ex USN, BuNo 33132. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "O" (or Q?). 0000-01-01
   1943-April-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-February-09 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Dartmouth Names: Cann | Ross | Toman | Walle
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2162

s/n
 2162
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5136

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex-USN, BuNo 33127. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "U". Cat “C” damage on 28 Jan 1944 after a taxiing accident. Suffered “B” Cat crash on 10 Feb 1944. 2022-01-21
   1943-April-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-January-21 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Dartmouth Nova Scotia Names: French | Mcmitcheal | Stevenson | Tinsley
   1944-October-26 Struck off Strength Write off 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2163

s/n
 2163
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5134
Ex USN, BuNo 33125. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "B". Category B damage at Gander, Newfoundland on 17 August 1943. 0000-01-01
   1943-April-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-August-02 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Birch | Dalgleish | Griff | Prudie | Richmond
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2164

s/n
 2164
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5161
Ex USN, BuNo 33152. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "H". 0000-01-01
   1943-May-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-May-09 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Dartmouth Aerodrome Names: Janke | Penfold | Sutoff | Walters
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2165

s/n
 2165
inst
 A 452
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5162

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex-USN, BuNo 33153. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "X". Classified as Instructional Airframe A.452 on 20 Nov 1945. Struck off and sold to the Babb Co (Canada) Ltd. Registered in the US as N5768N by Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL. Civil conversion completed by 6 December 1951. Used by Sinclair Refining Co, Tulsa OK, New York NY from 5 January1951 to 1958. To Dallas Aero Service, Dallas, TX as of 3 Apr 1958. Re-registered as N131A to Ada Oil Co, Houston TX as of 3 June 1958. Converted to Super Ventura as of 10 Sep 1958 and used until 1968. To Clarks Aerial Service, Brownfield, TX from 1968 through to 1977. converted for agricultural ops. as a crop duster, on 25 April 1968. To Brownfield Aerial Inc, Brownfield ,TX from 7 Oct 1977 until 1982. Struck-off US register as of April 1982 but still parked at Brownfield as of 1995; derelict by 1987. 2022-01-21
   1943-May-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-May-27 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Delf | Ham | Watt
   1945-November-20 Classified Instructional A 452 2020-06-10
   1949-October-04 Struck off Strength later sold 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239 | 1968 488

Ventura 2166

s/n
 2166
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5164

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex USN, BuNo 33155. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "T". Category A damage at Dartmouth on 10 March 1945. While landing after a cross country flight with low ceiling plus some ground fog, the pilot overshot the icy runways. Pilot came in high and braking action being poor was unable to stop in time. Crew of four uninjured. 2022-01-21
   1943-May-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-March-10 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Dartmouth Nova Scotia Names: Mcbain | Merritt | Owen | Parker
   1945-April-11 Struck off Strength Cat "A" write off 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2167

s/n
 2167
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5165
Ex-USN, BuNo 33156. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "W". Cat “B” damage on 25 Oct 1943. Struck off and sold. US registered as N64003 by Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL in 1949. Converted to executive configuration by Spartan Aero. Re-registered as N2331 to Champion Paper & Fibre Co, Hamilton OH from 7 Aug 1950 to 1957. Registration changed to N31CP while still with Champion Paper & Fibre Co from 1957 to 1960. Crashed and was destroyed at Madeira, OH on 19 Feb 1960.
2022-01-21
   1943-May-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-September-21 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Torbay Names: Gutowsli | Harris | Mcfadden | Skrove
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength Later sold 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2168

s/n
 2168
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5163
Ex USN, BuNo 33154. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "E". Category B damage on 25 October 1943. 0000-01-01
   1943-May-27 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-July-20 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Dalgleish | Griff | Purdie
   1947-July-08 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2169

s/n
 2169
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5166

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex USN, BuNo 33157. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "A". Category A damage at Torbay, Newfoundland on 6 August 1943, 4 crew killed. Taking off in early morning on operational patrol, in bad weather, and left the end of the runway just barely airborne. Aircraft struck rising terrain off end of runway and exploded. Official accident report: "This accident was due to an error on the part of the pilot in that he after take off failed to climb sufficiently to clear the rising ground ahead of him. Poor visibility was a contributing factor." Subsequent report noted that takeoff was in very difficult conditions, and engine power loss may have contributed. 0000-01-01
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-August-05 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Names: Drynan | Griff | Lee | Richardson
   1944-March-20 Struck off Strength Cat "A" write off 2022-01-21
1943-August-05 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Gerald Clarence Drynan 2023-04-30
1943-August-05 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer Milton Eric Griff 2023-04-30
1943-August-05 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Wilbur Moats Lee 2023-04-30
1943-August-05 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer William Robert Gale Richardson 2023-04-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2170

s/n
 2170
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5247
Ex USN, BuNo 33238. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "G". 0000-01-01
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-April-20 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Bredt | Killingsworth | Simmons
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2171

s/n
 2171
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5245

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex-USN, BuNo 33236. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/44. Coded "Y". Struck off, after a Cat “A” crash on 9 Jul 1944 at Goose Bay, NF. The heavily loaded a/c crashed and burned on take-off. Five crew members killed. included Flying Officer W.A. Harris (WAG, Pilot Officer J.C. Tanner (Pilot), Flying Officer D.W. Hume (Nav), WO M.S. Wood (WAG) and LAC H.A. Stephenson Six passengers including LAC’s H.H. Bell, L.C. St. Louis, Cpls C.W.T. Cole, L.C. Forie and Flight Sergeant M.K. Duquette were also killed. The accident was attributed to pilot error. The maximum crew / passenger load should have been limited to 8 or 9. 2022-01-21
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-July-06 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Goose Bay Labrador Names: Bell | Cole | Duquette | Foris | Harris | Hume | Leard | St Louis | Stephenson | Tanner | Wood
   1944-October-11 Struck off Strength after Category A crash 2022-01-21
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Henry Hedley Bell 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Corporal Clarence Nathon Cole 2024-04-29
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Sergeant Myles Edward Duquette 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Corporal Louis Charles Foris 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Flying Officer William Arthur Harris 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Donald William Hume 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Leading Aircraftman William Godfrey Leard 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Lionel Charles St Louis 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Harold Archibald Stephenson 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer John Charles Tanner 2023-05-01
1944-July-06 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 1st Class Melville Stanley Wood 2023-05-01
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2172

s/n
 2172
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5248
Ex USN, BuNo 33239. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "I". Category C damage on 3 October 1944. 0000-01-01
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-October-03 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Rcaf Stnorth Dartmouth Nova Scotia Names: Adams | Arnold | Clark
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2173

s/n
 2173
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5241

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 33232. Served with No. 8 (BR) Squadron on west coast. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal. Sold and registered as N5778N to Hunter C. Moody/ Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL Used by Ohio Oil Co, Findlay, OH in 1955-56. Converted to Super Ventura Mk II. and registered as N555DM by Milner Enterprises, Jackson MS in 1959. To Dumas Milner Corp, Jackson, MS in 1963. Destroyed by a fire on 29 Nov 1963. 2022-01-21
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2174

s/n
 2174
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5170
c/r
 CF‑HBW
Ex-USN, BuNo 33161. Assigned to WAC. Suffered “B” Cat crash on 5 Aug 1943. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services, Ottawa, ON and registered as CF-HBW. Acquired by Howard Aircraft Inc. on 24 Apr 1959. Registered as N4968C and converted to Super Ventura. Later became to Howard 500, c/n 500-101. Sold to Volusia Locations Inc., Jun 1963 and registered as N18N. To Husky Aviation Inc. and registered as N365N. Sold to Pacific Petroleum Ltd., Canada, in late 1967 and registered as CF-WKG. Sold to Rawcon de Costa Rica, USA, 1971 and registered as N500B. Sold to Nevada Airline Inc, NV, 17 Apr 1980. Sold to Owen Sound Airways, Canada in Nov 1980 and registered as C-GLOM. To Future Airlines Ltd. in Dec 1980. Returned to USA and stored at Opa
Locka, FL, in Jan 1982. Later stored at Fort Lauderdale, FL by Dec 1982. Registration canceled in Feb 1983. Sold to Lucht Land Zee NV, in May 1983 and registered as PJ-LLZ in Paramaribo, Surinam. Impounded at Nassau, Bahamas for drug running flight, Apr 1984. Still stored in derelict condition, as of 2006. 2022-01-21
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-August-04 Accident: 8 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Biddlecombe | Fraser | Mcarthur
1945-March-21 Accident: 170 Ferry Squadron Loc: Lethbridge Alberta Names: Hunt | Mcdonald | Richards
   1957-March-19 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239 | 1968 630

Ventura 2175

s/n
 2175
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5239
Ex USN, BuNo 33230. In use at RCAF Station Patricia Bay, BC in 1944. 0000-01-01
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-May-23 Accident: 8 Squadron Loc: Patricia Bay British Columbia Names: Backing | Hanchet | Mcdonald | Mcquaid
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2176

s/n
 2176
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5246

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex USN, BuNo 33237. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Station Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "A". Ground looped on landing 18th March 1944 2022-01-21
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-March-18 Accident: 8 Squadron Loc: Port Hardy Names: Berry | Morris | Sinclair
   1944-August-14 Struck off Strength Struck off, after Category A damage on 3 April 1944. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2177

s/n
 2177
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5244

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 33235. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c. 1943 to 1945. Coded "H" Marked with “77” on the nose and Ken’s Kan Polar Bear” nose art. Postwar was purchased by Howard Aero in San Antonio, TX probably for reduction to spares.. 2022-01-21
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2178

s/n
 2178
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5171

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8;122(K)

Ex-USN, BuNo 33162. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c.
1943 to 1944. Coded "O". With No. 122(K) Squadron in BC, 1944-45. Struck off with 714:40 airframe hours since new 2022-01-21
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-October-04 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2179

s/n
 2179
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5172
Ex USN, BuNo 33163. Assigned to Western Air Command. Pieces recovered near Meritt, BC in 1994, to be used in reconstruction of 2195. 0000-01-01
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2180

s/n
 2180
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5258
Ex-USN, BuNo 33249. Assigned to WAC. To stored reserve WAC as of 28 Jul 1944. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB on 27 Nov 1945 for storage pending disposal. Sold to Douglas W. Siple/ Siple Aviation Ltd, Montreal, QC in 1953. To Universal Trading Corp, New York, NY on 25 Nov 1953. Registered as N10485 to Howard Aero Service, San Antonio, TX. Converted to Howard Super Ventura and completed 31 October 1956 at San Antonio, TX, line no. #8. Sold and registered as N1212 to Fruehauf Trailer Co, Detroit, MI from 1956 to 1960. Sold on 20 May 1960 and registered as N2020 to Reserve Mining Co, Silver Bay, MN. To University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN from Dec 1963 to 1964. To Andre J. Andreoli/ Associated Developments, Akron, OH as N8020 from 1964 to 1967. To Raymond E. Umbaugh/ Aircraft Data Processing Centre, Boulder, CO in 1967. To Cathedral of Tomorrow Inc, Cuyahoga, OH from 1967 to 1972 registered as N4005. To Unit Electric Control Inc, Orlando, FL from 10 Jul 1972 to 1973. To Dee Howard Aircraft Sales, San Antonio, TX as of 17 Sep 1973. To Billy C. Hayes as of 19 Sep 1973. Sold in May 1975 to Robert Harrison but sale not completed. Later presumed crashed or abandoned during drug ops. 2022-01-21
   1943-May-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2181

s/n
 2181
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5167
Ex-USN, BuNo 33158. Assigned to EAC. Initially to stored reserve on 21 Oct 1943. To EAC on 25 May 1944. Back to stored reserve on 11 Feb 1945. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-04 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2182

s/n
 2182
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5168
Ex USN, BuNo 33159. Assigned to Eastern Air Command. Baugher reports this BuNo as lost in mid air collision on 24 August 1944, while serving with USN unit VB-2. Operated by Test & Development Establishment at RCAF Station Rockcliffe, Ontario. Nosed over on landing at Rockcliffe on 6 January 1945, repaired. To stored reserve as of 1 Dec 1945. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-04 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-January-06 Accident: T & D ESTABLISHMENT ROCKLIFFE, ONT Loc: Rockcliffe Ontario Names: Bracken | Hupponen | Leibovitch | Ross
   1948-January-05 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2183

s/n
 2183
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5242

Known Squadron Assignments: ;113

Ex USN, BuNo 33233. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "D". Flew this unit's last operation out of from Torbay, Newfoundland, escort to US convoy, on 16 August 1944. To stored reserve on 13 Sep 1944. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-04 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2184

s/n
 2184
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5266

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex USN, BuNo 33257. Ferried from Califonria to Pennfield Ridge by an RCAF crew, May 1943. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "C". 2022-01-21
   1943-June-04 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2185

s/n
 2185
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5267
Ex-USN, BuNo 33258. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c. 1943 to 1945. Flew this unit's last war time patrol on 16 May 1945, from Patricia Bay. Sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa ON in 1955. US registered as N10473 to D.U. Howard / Howard Aero Services, San Antonio, TX on 14 Jun 1955. Converted to Howard Super Ventura; completed 18 Feb 1957 at San Antonio TX, line no. #11. Registered as N2600 to Socony Mobil Oil Co, New York, NY from 1957 - 62. Converted to Howard 350 config and registered as N9211R still with Socony Mobil Oil Co from 1962 - 64. To Maverick Equipment Co, Ft Worth, TX from 24 Jun 1964 to 1965. Registered as N544B to Bovaird Supply Co, Tulsa, OK from 17 Jun 65 to 1969. To Dee Howard Aircraft Sales, San Antonio, TX from 1969-70. To Buddy Lee & Richard Blake, Nashville ,TN on 25 May 1970. To George Nowlan t/a Danny Davis, Brentwood, TN with titles "Danny Davis" & "Music City USA" from 26 May 1971 to 1973. To Basler Flight Service, Oshkosh, WI from 12 Jun 1973 to 1974. To Bronco Mines Inc, Las Vegas, NV from 23 May 1974 to 1975. To Onyx Aviation Inc, Miami, FL on 31 Jan 1975. Seized by Marion County Sheriff, FL and impounded, stored Homestead AFB, FL for 1975. To Aeromedia Inc for Dec 1975-76. To Daniel C. Crowley, Simsbury, CT on 23 Mar 1976. To Kentucky Trust Oil Corp, Miami, FL from 26 May 1976. Seized by US Customs, Fort Lauderdale, FL in Jun 1976. To H & H Inc, New York, NY as of 3 Mar 1978. Seized again by US Customs, Savannah, GA on 6 Mar 1978. To Marian Air Spray Inc, Savannah,
GA from 14 Jul 1978. To Triple D Transport Co, Fort Lauderdale, FL on 24 Feb 1979. Was ditched in sea off Guantanamo, Cuba on 27 Apr 1979.
2022-01-21
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-February-28 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2186

s/n
 2186
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5269

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 33260. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c. 1943 to 1945. Coded "N". Acquired by Douglas W. Siple / Siple Aviation Ltd, Montreal QC, in 1955 from storage in Vulcan AB. Sold to Universal Trading Corp, New York, NY, 11 Aug 1955. Acquired by Howard Aero Service, San Antonio, TX, 5 Dec 1955 and converted to Howard Super Ventura #22, finished Dec1957. Sold and used by Cluett Peabody & Co, New York, NY, Dec 1957-1963 registered as N9060. Sold to Rita Corp, 3 Jul 1963. With Fairchild Stratos Corp, Jul 1963-1964. To Chemical & Industrial Corp, Cincinnati, OH, 27 Apr 1964-1968. To William C. Whitesell / Flying W Airways, Fort Lauderdale, FL / Medford, NJ, Nov 1968-72. To R. Cornell Co, Westville, NJ, 3 Mar 1972-73. To R. M. Richards/Onyx Aviation, Miami, FL, 23 May 1973. To Lomax Corp, Jun 14, 1973-1974.To Hydro Development International Ltd, SA, 11 Jan1974-77. To Onyx Aviation Inc, Oklahoma City, OK, Oct 1977-78. To Southern Aero Traders, Miami, FL, Nov 1978-80. To Milo Brelle, Feb 4, 1980. To Oklahoma Aircraft Corp, Yukon, OK, Oct 1980 and withdrawn from use / stored, 1980-82. Later presumed lost on drug smuggling ops. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 239

Ventura 2187

s/n
 2187
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5270

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 33261. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c. 1943 to 1945. Coded "T". Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Sold and registered as N10472 to Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1955. Registered to Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co, Youngstown, OH on 31 Aug 1956 as N3452. Converted to Howard Super Ventura in Dec 1956 at San Antonio, TX, line no. #9. The aircraft crashed and was destroyed after it dived into the ground near New Castle, PA on 27 Dec 1956. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-February-27 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2188

s/n
 2188
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5271
Ex-USN, BuNo 33262. In use at RCAF Stn Patricia Bay, BC in 1945. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 28 Feb 1945. Sold and registered as N10474 to Howard Aero Service Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1955. Registered as N200P to National Distillers Corp, New York, NY from 1957-60. Converted to Super Ventura configuration and registered as N230P again to National Distillers Corp. To Borg-Warner Corp, Chicago, IL on 22 Nov 1960 and registered as N18A. On 17 Aug 1962, the a/c crashed into the harbour after takeoff from Chicago, IL. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-February-28 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2189

s/n
 2189
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5272
Ex-USN, BuNo 33263. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c. 1943 to 1945. Coded "Q". Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Sold to Douglas W. Siple/ Siple Aviation Ltd, Montreal QC in 1953. To Universal Trading Corp, New York, NY in 1953 as N10486. To Howard Aero Service Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1960 and converted to Howard Pressurised Super Ventura; completed 15 Apr 1960, C of A issued 19 Apr 1960. Registered as N721N to Nationwide Mutual Insurance, Columbus, OH from 1960-69. Further converted by Howard in 1962; although allocated c/n 500-102, full conversion to H.500 was not completed. To Howell Instrument Inc, Fort Worth, TX from 29 Aug 1969 until 1977. To Waggoner Aircraft Inc, Bethany, OK from 25 Mar 1978. To Oklahoma Aircraft Corp, Yukon, OK as of 21 Mar 1979. To Aggadir Ltd, New York, NY as 14 Jun 1979. On 7 Jul 1979, the a/c ditched into the sea off Aruba, Antilles. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2190

s/n
 2190
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5275

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 33266. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c. 1943 to 1945. Coded "C". Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Sold and registered as N10475 to Howard Aero Service, San Antonio, TX in 1955 and converted to Howard Super Ventura. Registered as CF-KEH to Pacific Petroleum Ltd, Calgary AB for 1958-59. Registered as N101MC to International Minerals & Chemical Corp in 1961. To Commonwealth Plan Inc, Boston, MA in 1963 and converted to Howard 350 and re-registered as N361MC for 1963-68. to Robertson Aircraft Co, Dallas, TX for 1968-69. To Aviation Properties Inc, Dallas TX Executive Leasing Services Inc, Dallas ,TX in 1970. To Mar Pon Inc, Dallas TX for 1971-72. To Wilson Learning Corp, Minneapolis, MN as 11 Oct 1972. Crashed and was destroyed upon landing at Philadelphia, PA on 15 Oct 1972. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-February-28 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240 | 1968 632

Ventura 2191

s/n
 2191
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5280
c/r
 CF‑KEH

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex USN, BuNo 33271. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alaska, and/or Terrace BC. With Air Armament School at Trenton when it was dispatched to Greenwood, NS on 23 April 1948 for target towing work with RCN. Damaged by ground fire at Dorval, Quebec on return on 27 April 1948. To civil register as CF-KEH, off register by 1976. Later to US civil register, as N11P.US registered as N1506V to Louise Bartlett, New York, NY on 7 Jul 1952. To Lockwood Kessler Bartlett Inc, New York, NY for 1952-54 with civil conversion by Spartan Aero Repair in Feb 1953. To Plymouth Oil Co, Pittsburgh, PA on 26 Oct 1954. Conversion to Howard Super Ventura completed 10 Sep 1955 at San Antonio, TX, line no. #2. Registered as N11P to Plymouth Oil Co named The Wildcatter from 1955-62. To Ohio Oil Co, Findlay, OH for 1962-64. To George H. Bailey Co, Fort Wayne, IN from 22 May 1964-68. To Ronald C. Witt, St Paul, MN from 9 Apr 1968-1973. To Onyx Aviation Inc, Oklahoma City, OK as of 14 May 1973. Sold to Pan American Development Co, Long Beach CA: sale not completed. Last reported at Oklahoma City OK in Apr 1974. Later presumed crashed / abandoned during drug ops. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1953-June-08 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2192

s/n
 2192
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5282
Ex USN, BuNo 33273. Category C damage on 15 March 1944, while with No. 8 (BR) Squadron in BC, coded "A". Served with Met. Flight attached to this squadron. Later with No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alaska, and/or Terrace BC. 0000-01-01
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-February-26 Accident: 149 Loc: Terrace British Columbia Names: Causey | Gauthier | Holton | Tattan
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2193

s/n
 2193
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5327

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex USN, BuNo 33318. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alaska, and/or Terrace BC. Reported Missing In Action on 26 October 1943, on a mission out of Annette Island. Crashed on Cape Chacon, Prince of Wales Island. Crew survived, but all 4 succumbed to injuries and starvation before being found. Wreckage located in August 1949. Bodies not removed until 1950. 2012-05-08
   1943-June-10 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-August-21 Accident: 149 Squadron Loc: Annette Island Names: Swingler
1943-October-26 Accident: 149 Loc: Names: Arnol | Chambers | Chandler | Marshall
   1944-May-10 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-21
1943-October-26 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Vernon Claude Arnold 2023-07-03
1943-October-26 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Henry Chambers 2024-01-28
1943-October-26 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Alfred James Chandler AFM 2024-01-29
1943-October-26 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer George Charles Marshall 2023-07-03
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2194

s/n
 2194
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5085

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex USN, BuNo 33076. Fitted with dual controls. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Station Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c.1943 to 1945. Coded "B". At No. 22 Sub Repair Depot, Sea Island, BC in October 1945. To stored reserve as of 6 Mar 1945. 2022-01-21
   1943-June-14 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2195

s/n
 2195
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5324
c/r
 CF‑FAV

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex-USN, BuNo 33315, completed on 6 May 1943. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Patricia Bay, BC, Annette Island, Alaska, and Terrace BC, coded "ZM*R". Stored at Vulcan, Alberta. Converted to Bomb & Gunnery trainer. To No. 1 Air Armament School, RCAF Stn Trenton c.1950 coded GM*N. On 23 Feb 1950 the a/c suffered a serious accident while taxiing after a gunnery training mission. The a/c was being taxied on an ice covered tarmac past a visiting Lancaster which was running all of its engines. The engine slipstream from the Lancaster pushed the tail of the Ventura sideways into a hard snow back seriously damaging the tail wheel and rear fuselage. There were no injuries to the crew. Struck off and sold to civil register as CF-FAV, with Spartan Air Services. Used for survey work in northern Canada, abandoned after forced landing in NWT on 14 Aug 1953. Being restored to flying condition by Ventura Memorial Flight Association in Edmonton, Alberta, see www.rcafventura.ca. Group found aircraft near Hay River, NWT in 1987, re-registered as CF-ZMR. Main airframe airlifted to Yellowknife Airport by No. 447 Squadron Chinook on 18 Jun 1988. Some pieces of #2179 being used. Work still underway in 2012 2022-01-21
   1943-June-14 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-March-10 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240 | 1968 625

Ventura 2196

s/n
 2196
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5283

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex-USN, BuNo 33274. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alaska, and/or Terrace BC. Converted to Bomb & Gunnery trainer. To No. 1 Air Armament School, RCAF Stn Trenton c. 1950. Sold and US registered as N1504V by Louise Bartlett, New York, NY in 1952. To Lockwood Kessler Bartlett Inc, New York, NY as of Nov 1952. To Standard Oil Co, Chicago, IL for 1954-56. Re-registered as N234YU to Ebco Manufacturing Co, Columbus, OH from 1956-73. Converted to Howard Super Ventura during this time. Crashed into Egg Harbour, at Atlantic City, NJ on 1Feb 1975. 2022-01-22
   1943-June-15 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1953-February-19 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2197

s/n
 2197
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5332

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex-USN, BuNo 33323. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alaska, and/or Terrace BC. US registered as N64008 by Hunter C. Moody/ Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL in 1948. Reregistered as N164H by M. A. Hanna Mining Co, Cleveland, OH from 1954-64. Executive conversion completed by Spartan Aero, in Tulsa, OK on 5 Mar 1954. To Purdue Aeronautics Corp, Lafayette, IN for 1964-65. To James E. McDaniel, Houston, TX 1965-66. To Gulf & Western, Houston, TX 1966-67. To Pinellas Central Bank & Trust Co, Largo, FL 1967-68. To Clarks Aerial Service, Brownfield, TX and converted to agricultural duster/spreader from 1969-77, To Brownfield Aerial Inc, Brownfield TX in Oc 1977. To E.R. Miether, in Odessa TX as of 31 Mar 1978. Struck-off US register
as of 25 Jun 1979. Presumed crashed or abandoned during drug ops.
2022-01-22
   1943-June-15 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2198

s/n
 2198
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5336

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex-USN, BuNo 33327. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alaska, and/or Terrace BC. Flew this unit's first mission as a BR squadron; a patrol from Annette Island on 1 Sep 1943. Sold to Lionel Verreault in 1948. To W.C. Siple / Siple Aircraft Ltd. St Johns QC on 22 Jun 1948. US registered as N64004 by Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL. Conversion to xecutive configuration completed by Aero Trades Inc, MacArthur Airport, NY completed by 29 Oct 1950. To Triangle Conduit & Cable, New Brunswick, NJ from 1950-56. To Howard Aero Service, San Antonio, TX as of 15 May 1956. To Northern Pump Co, Minneapolis MN from Dec 1957 to 1958. Re-registered as N234P still Northern Pump Co. Converted to Super Ventura completed by 7 Jul 1958 and later upgraded to Howard 350 configuration. To North Star Sales & Leasing, Ft Lauderdale, FL from 2 Feb 1979-80. To Summit Quarries Inc, Summit Station, PA from 22 Jul 1980-83. To Pacific Northwest Lumber, Spokane, WA from Nov 1983-84. Seized by police, New Smyrna Beach, FL on 8 Oct 1984. To City of New Smyrna Beach, FL from 1984-86. To Doan Helicopter Inc, New Smyrna Beach, FL from Oct 1986-92. Offered for sale, Doan auction 30 Oct 1992: to Jim Gregory at auction. To Ben Cart, Townsend GA. To James A. McNally, of Belthesda MD 1994-95. Damaged by fire in starboard wing on ground in Oct 1994. To Patrick Taylor / Taylor Energy Co, New Orleans-Lakefront LA from 12 Jul 1995 until 2007; maintained airworthy 1995-2006. Badly damaged at Lakefront during Hurricane Katrina in Aug 2005. To Orange County Great Park, Irvine CA moved by road for restoration for display in Orange County Great Park, on site of the former El Toro MCAS in 2008. Scrapped Nov 2023.

General Warbird News


2023-12-04
   1943-June-15 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2199

s/n
 2199
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5340

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149;34 OTU

Ex-USN, BuNo 33331. Initially with No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alaska, and/or Terrace BC. Then to No. 34 OTU in Pennfield, NB. Struck off, after Cat “A” crash on 22 Jun 1945 at Pennfield. The a/c crashed 2.5 miles northeast of the main aerodrome at 04:25 hrs while on approach to the runway in foggy conditions and exploded upon impact. The four-person crew including Flying Officer L.P. Gravel (Pilot), Sgt. D.H. MacNeil (Nav) and WAG's Sgt. E.A. Balderson and Sgt. J.P. McQuarrie perished. 2022-01-22
   1943-June-15 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-June-22 Accident: Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Balderson | Gravel | Macneil | Mcquarrie
   1945-July-17 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-22
1945-June-22 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Edward Asthorpe Balderston 2022-12-30
1945-June-22 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer Louis Peter Gravel 2023-06-22
1945-June-22 KIFA RCAF Flight Sergeant Daniel Hillary MacNeill 2023-04-25
1945-June-22 KIFA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class John Parker McQuarrie 2023-06-14
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2200

s/n
 2200
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5333

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex-USN, BuNo 33324. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, AK, and/or Terrace BC. Struck off and sold to Kenting Aviation Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1952. US registered as N3948C Albert J. Leeward / Leeward Aeronautical Services, in Fort Wayne, IN in 1952. Re-registered as N44R by Rockwell Manufacturing Co, Pittsburgh, PA from 1953-59. Fitted with3 rocket-assisted takeoff bottles on belly by Pacific Airmotive Corp at Burbank, CA in 1955. Re-registered as N401M to Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX and converted to Howard Super Ventura. Registered then as N45CK in Chun King Corp, Duluth, MN for 1961-66. To Jenno F. Paulucci, Duluth, MN in 1966. To University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN for 1967-69. To Clarks Aerial Service, Brownfield, TX on 17 Jul 1969 and converted to agricultural sprayer/duster. Crashed and was destroyed during fire-ant spraying mission near Union Springs, AL on 4 May 1973 2022-01-22
   1943-June-15 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-February-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2201

s/n
 2201
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5338
Ex USN, BuNo 33317. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alska, and/or Terrace BC. Also served with Eastern Air Command, dates unknown. 0000-01-01
   1943-June-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2202

s/n
 2202
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5331

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex-USN, BuNo 33319. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, AK, and/or Terrace BC. Bought by Douglas W. Siple / Siple Aviation Ltd, Montreal QC from storage Vulcan AB in 1951. US registered as N5776N by Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL on 15 Nov 1951. To Northern Natural Gas Co, Omaha, NE from 10 mar 1952 until 1959. Civil conversion completed in 1952 with further modifications for executive conversion by Spartan Aero, Tulsa, OK in 1954. Reregistered as N507N to Northern Natural Gas Co, Omaha, NE from 23 Mar 1959 to 1961. Conversion to Super Ventura completed by 31 Mar 1959. Damaged in a wheels-up landing at Mason City, IA on 24 Jul 1960. Registered as N507H to Husky Aviation Co, Cody, WY from 1961-64. To Volusia Locations Inc, Saratoga WY as of 21 Dec 1964. To Willis C. Walker, Saratoga, WY from 1964-66. Converted to Howard 350 by Business Aircraft Corp, San Antonio; completed by18 Apr 1966. to Husky Aviation Co, Cody, WY for rest of 1966. To Penn Aire Aviation, Franklin PA from 13 Feb 1967 to 1968. To Brads Machine Products, Gadsden, AL from 1968-70. To Cessna Finance Corp, Wichita, KS from 4 Jan 1971 to 1972. To R.G. Smith & B. L. Thomas as of 12 Apr 1972. To Hawkinson Enterprises Inc, Port Isabel, TX as of Dec 1972. To M. Lane Powers, Houston,TX from 15 May 1973 to 1975. To Paul D. Finefrock & Ken Whetzel, Hobart, OK as of 16 Jul 1975. Seized by US Drug Enforcement Agency in OK on 25 Jul 1975. Operated by US Customs Service, New Orleans, LA from 1976-78. Flown in black and gold executive colour scheme on counter-drug ops with USNAM, at NAS Pensacola, FL 1978-86. To R. McPherson, Fernando Beach, FL in 1986. Airlifted by helicopter to Fernando Beach for planned restoration but damaged beyond repair in transit. Broken-up for parts in 1987. 2022-01-22
   1943-June-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2203

s/n
 2203
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5328
Ex USN, BuNo 33322. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, Alska, and/or Terrace BC. Also served with Eastern Air Command, dates unknown. 0000-01-01
   1943-June-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2204

s/n
 2204
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5326

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex-USN, BuNo 33329. With No. 149 (BR) Squadron at Annette Island, AK, and/or Terrace BC. Flew this unit's last mission; patrol from Terrace on 19 Feb 1944. Sold and US registered as N64001 to Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL. To Columbia Geneva Steel Corp, San Francisco, CA from 1949-54. Civll exec. conversion by Flying Tiger, Burbank CA, in 1949. To US Steel Corp, San Francisco CA for 1954-56. Fitted jet packs by Aerojet General Corp at Azusa, CA circa 1956. To Crane Co, Chicago, IL as of Mar 1956. Crashed into trees and was destroyed at Jeffersonville, IN on 15 May 1956. 2022-01-22
   1943-June-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2205

s/n
 2205
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5163
Ex-USN, BuNo 33164. Assigned to EAC. Struck off and sold to Lionel Verreault in 1948. To W. C. Siple / Siple Aviation Ltd, St Johns, QC. To Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL (C of A issued 31 Aug 1948) and registered as N64005. To Wings Inc, Ambler, PA on 20 Oct 1949. To Sun Oil Co, Philadelphia, PA from 29 Mar 1950 until 1955. Converted to executive aircraft for Sun Oil by Aero Trades Inc, Islip, NY; completed 21 Mar 1950. To Trade Ayer Inc, Linden NJ from 1955 to 1958. Re-registered as N1958S to F. B. Ayer & Associates Inc, New York, NY from 1958 to 1961. Leased to Sun Oil Co, Philadelphia, PA during 1958. To Hugh M. Pierce, Scarsdale, NY for 1961-64. To Herbert H. Ambler on 8 Feb 1964. To Florida Airmotive Sales, Fort Lauderdale, FL on 24 Mar 1964. To K & S Aircraft Inc, Fort Lauderdale, FL on 17 Apr 1964. To Leon H. Patin, Miami, FL on 25 Feb 1965. To Philip J. Mathews & Corey Mandina, Miami FL on 26 Aug 1965. To John C. Piccione & Frank A. Rucerito on 6 Dec 1968. To Drew National Leasing Corp, New York NY for 1969-1971. To Frank A. Hill / Hill Air Co, Fort Lauderdale, FL as of 27 Jul 1971. Destroyed by a windstorm, while parked at Ft Lauderdale on 13 May 1975.. 2022-01-22
   1943-June-25 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2206

s/n
 2206
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5381
Ex USN, BuNo 33372. With No. 8 (BR) Squadron on west coast, coded "C". Sold to Spartan Air Service, Ottawa, ON probably for spares as there is no record of subsequent civil registration. 2022-01-22
   1943-June-25 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-October-23 Accident: 147 Squadron Loc: Rcaf Stnorth Tofino British Columbia Names: Anderson | Macnabb | Robb | Robb
   1952-June-04 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2207

s/n
 2207
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5243

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex-USN, BuNo 33234. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "Q". Struck off and sold to Hunter C. Moody/ Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur IL in 1949 and registered as N5760N. Used by Quaker Rubber Co. in 1951. Converted to executive configuration by Spartan Aero and registered as N2000C. Operated for Cities Services Co, by Swiflite Aircraft Corp, New York, NY from 1953-1956. Then crashed and was destroyed at Smithtown, NY, after takeoff from Islip-McArthur Airport, Long Island, NY on 26 January 1956 2022-01-22
   1943-June-25 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2208

s/n
 2208
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5276

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex-USN, BuNo 33267. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "L". Struck off, after Cat “A” crash at Dartmouth, NS on 16 Feb 1944. The a/c swung to port on take-off for an operational patrol. The pilot aborted the take-off, but the a/c struck a 7 ft high snowbank collapsing the u/c. The a/c then caught fire and was later destroyed by exploding depth charges. The crew all escaped with only minor injuries. 2022-01-22
   1943-July-05 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-February-16 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Dartmouth Names: Ashworth | Carney | Fluelling | Moffatt | Thorndycraft
   1944-April-12 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2209

s/n
 2209
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5334
Ex-USN, BuNo 33325. Assigned to Western Air Command. Later used at RCAF Stn Trenton, ON and assigned to the Air Armament School. On the 04 Feb 1949, after an air gunnery training mission, the a/c ran off the end of the runway during landing and through a steel fence, seriously damaging the a/c. Struck off and sold to Kenting Aviation Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1952. US registered as N3950C on 29 Feb 1952 by Albert J. Leeward / Leeward Aeronautical Services, of Fort Wayne. IN. Reregistered as N52K by Kraft Foods Co, Chicago, IL on 2 Jul 1952. Civil conversion to executive configuration completed by Spartan Aero Repair, in Tulsa OK by 14 Jan 1953. To Daniel Peterkin / Morton Salt Co, Chicago, IL from 1956 to 1963. Undercarriage collapsed during taxying at Chicago, IL on 26 Oct 1959. To Powernail Corp, Prairie View, IL as N322PN from 1964-65. Re-registered as N922PN still with Powernail Corp from Dec 1965-1970. Struck-off US register in Jul 1969. 2022-01-22
   1943-July-05 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-March-20 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2210

s/n
 2210
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5372
c/r
 CF‑HBX
Ex-USN, BuNo 33363. Assigned to Western Air ommand. Struck off and sold as CF-HBX to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON from 1955-59. US registered as N4969C to Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio TX on 13 Jun 1960. Re-registered as N511YP to Petan Co, Santa Barbara CA from 1961-69. Converted to Howard 500 at San Antonio, TX in 1964; Howard 500 (c/n 500-103). Registered as N511Y to McMahons Inc, Santa Barbara, CA from 20 Aug 1969 to 1972. To Dee Howard Aero Sales, San Antonio, TX from Nov 1972-73. To Darrell A. Tomblin Corp, Las Vegas, NV as of 16 Feb 1973. To Lonnie Russell Lsg. & Rental, Birmingham, AL as of 16 Jul 1974. Reregistered as N127LR still with Lonnie Russell Lsg. & Rental as of 9 Feb 1976. To Oklahoma Aircraft Corp, Yukon, OK on 13 Feb 1978. Crashed on landing Key Largo, FL in 1978. 2022-01-22
   1943-July-05 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-September-22 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240 | 1968 630

Ventura 2211

s/n
 2211
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5371
Ex-USN, BuNo 33362. Assigned to Western Air Command. Struck off and sold and US registered by Howard Aero Service, San Antonio, TX in 1955. To Champlin Petroleum Co, Ft Worth TX and converted to Howard Super Ventura. Re-registered as N5C to Champlin Oil & Refining Co, Ft Worth, TX from 1959-61. Converted to Howard 350 at San Antonio in 1963. Later registered as N175S Skelly Oil Co, Tulsa, OK from 1963-68. In 1968 to B.B. Saxon Co, Fort Walton Beach, FL. To Gen Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1969. To Sparlinco Corp, Dallas, TX for 1969-70. To Frank Armstrong, Dallas, TX for 1971-72. To Pioneer Ventures Inc, Naples FL for 1972-73. Crashed and was destroyed by fire landing off-airport on a drug flight, at Chimichagua, Colombia on 15 Apr 1973. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-05 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-September-29 Accident: 115 Squadron Loc: Tofino Aerodrome Names: Cole | Friedman | Grant | Hill
   1951-February-28 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2212

s/n
 2212
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5279
Ex USN, BuNo 33272 or 33270(?). Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "J". Category C damage on 21 March 1945, at Torbay, Newfoundland. 0000-01-01
   1943-July-06 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-March-09 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Torbay Newfoundland Names: Berry | Delf | Ham | Mcnamara | Saucier
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2213

s/n
 2213
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5268
Ex USN, BuNo 33259. Assigned to Eastern Air command. 0000-01-01
   1943-July-07 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1944-February-10 Struck off Strength Category A write-off and reduced to spares and produce 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2214

s/n
 2214
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5277

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex-USN, BuNo 33268. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "F". Sold to Hunter C. Moody/ Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL in 1949. Registered as XB-REX to President Miguel Aleman of Mexico in 1952. An executive conversion had been completed by Howard Aero, San Antonio, TX. To Bacon Corp, Santa Monica, CA, advertised for sale as of Oct 1954. Registered as N5399N to Howard Aero Service, San Antonio, TX in 1955 and converted to Howard Super Ventura in May 1955 at San Antonio TX, line no. #1. To Los Angeles Air Service, Las Vegas, NV for 1956-57. To Irving Pasternak, San Antonio, TX. To Indian Drilling Mud Co, Odessa. TX. Back to Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX as of 15 Oct 1960. Used for Howard 500 development flying. Crashed near Bandera, TX during a test flight on 15 Mar 1962. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-07 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2215

s/n
 2215
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5278
Ex-USN, BuNo 33269. First assigned to Winter Experimental and Training Flight in Kapuskasing, ON on 25 Jan 1944 and then later transferred to Winter Experimental Establishment in Edmonton, AB on 24 Oct 1945. Converted to target tug on 22 Jun 1948. Sold to Kenting Aviation Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1952. Sold to Lockwood Keller & Bartlett Inc, Great Neck, NY in 1952 and registered as N1505V. To Plymouth Oil Co, Sinton, TX from 19 Oct 1952-54. Civil conversion. by Howard Aero, San Antonio, TX in Jul 1953. Crashed into a mountain near Waynesboro, VA on 20 Nov 1954. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-07 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-March-20 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2216

s/n
 2216
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5273
Ex USN, BuNo 33264. Assigned to Eastern Air Command. 0000-01-01
   1943-July-07 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-June-28 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Dartmouth Names: McLeod | Smith | Young
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2217

s/n
 2217
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5274
Ex-USN, BuNo 33265. Assigned to EAC. Cat “B” damage on 30 May 1944. Sold and US registered as N5671N on 9 Jun 1948. To Republic Steel Corp, Cleveland, OH as N3031. Converted to executive config. by Spartan Aero in 1952 and later converted to Howard Super Ventura in Sep 1956 at San Antonio TX, line no. #5. The a/c’s undercarriage collapsed during a landing at Hyannis, MA on 26 Apr 1959. Re-registered as N8081 to Republic Steel Corp, Cleveland, OH from Nov 1966. Coverted to Howard 350 configuration completed 27 May 1966 To Purdue Aero Corp, Lafayette, IN on 1 Jun 1966 as N730EG. To Edwin J. Gould, New York, NY from 1967-72. To Home Interiors & Gifts Inc in 1973. to Fellowship of Christian Athletes (Dallas Chapter), Dallas, TX as 8 Jan 75. Crashed near Culiacan, Mexico on a drug smuggling flight on 1 Apr 1975 2022-01-24
   1943-July-07 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-April-01 Accident: 113 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Baxter | Kramer | Morton | Owens | Toombs
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2218

s/n
 2218
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5375 or 5374?

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 33365. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, at time of crash. Coded "B". Struck off, after Cat “A” crash on 25 Apr 1944 on a flight to Tofino, BC. The a/c hit near the 3,500 ft summit of Mt. Bolduc near Cowichan Lake, BC killing the crew of six onboard. Lost were: Flying Officer A. Moynagh, Pilot Officer J.E. Moyer, Sgt. H.A. Maki, WO1 B.G.H. Palmer, WO2 L.D. Kerr, and LAC M.T. Robertson. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-12 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-April-26 Accident: 115 Squadron Loc: Between Pat Bay & Tofino Names: Kerr | Maki | Moyer | Moynagh | Palmer | Robertson
   1944-July-14 Struck off Strength Struck off, after Category A crash on 25 April 1944. 2019-08-20
1944-April-25 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 1st Class Lawrence Kerr 2023-02-12
1944-April-25 KIA RCAF Sergeant Harry Arthur Maki 2023-02-13
1944-April-25 KIA RCAF Flying Officer John Ernest Moyer 2023-02-13
1944-April-25 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Ambrose Moynagh 2023-02-13
1944-April-25 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 1st Class Brinsley George Henry Palmer 2023-02-15
1944-April-25 KIA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Murray Thomas Robertson 2023-02-15
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2219

s/n
 2219
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5376
c/r
 CF‑FSL
Ex USN, BuNo 33367. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Sold post war to Spartan Aviation, registered as CF-FSL. 0000-01-01
   1943-July-12 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-June-04 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240 | 1968 627

Ventura 2220

s/n
 2220
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5377
Ex USN, BuNo 33368. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Later on US civil register as N10477, owned by Howard Aero Service of San Antonio, TX. 0000-01-01
   1943-July-15 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-February-25 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2221

s/n
 2221
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5378
Ex USN, BuNo 33369. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Stored postwar at RCAF Station Vulcan, Alberta, before being sold in 1953. First registered as N1590V, to Universal Trading Co. of NYC. At Spartan Aircraft in Tulsa, OK for excutive conversion, Dec 1953 to August 1955. Damaged on 27 September 1955, when undercarriage collapsed during landing at Tulsa, OK. After several changes of ownership, (and re-registered as N159V, then N159U) modified for aerial seeding in 1964, owned by Clark's Aerial Service of Brownfield, Texas. More ownership changes, then 1980 until 1986 N159U stored outside at Fort Lauderdale airport in Florida before being purchased by Aero Nostalgia in 1985, and restored to airworthy condition. In 1988 the aircraft was traded to the RAAF Museum, and N159U became VH-SFF, painted as A59-67 of the RAAF's No 13 Squadron. Flown to Australia, 11 June to 11 July 1988. The aircraft was flown by the RAAF's Historic Flight until gear up landing after double engine failure on 19 November 1996, and VH-SFF is currently in storage awaiting repair to static display condition. Struck off Australian register on 28 August 2002. 0000-01-01
   1943-July-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2222

s/n
 2222
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5379

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115;123

Ex USN, BuNo 33370. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944, coded "G". Converted to target tug on 22 August 1946. With Air Armement School at Trenton in February 1948, for tests with drop tanks. Left Trenton for west coast on 5 February 1948. With No. 123 (Search and Rescue) Flight at Sea Island in February 1948. Dropped rescue jumpers at Patricia Bay in May 1948, on training exercise. Later registered to Business Aircraft Corporation, San Antonio, TX. US as N456 to Pure Oil Co, Chicago, IL from 1956-61. Damaged in a wheels-up landing, at International Falls, MN on 14 Jun 1957. Damaged in a ground collision, while taxying Chicago, IL on 20 Jan 1960. The a/c’s undercarriage collapsed, while landing at Hobbs, NM on 26 Mar 1961. Registered as N456G on 12 Oct 1962 by Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX. To Business Aircraft Corp, San Antonio, TX from 1964-70. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-March-20 Accident: 115 Squadron Loc: Tofino Names: Calnek | Hamilton | Lindsay | Macleod
   1952-September-22 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2223

s/n
 2223
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5490

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex-USN, BuNo 34600. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1952. US registered as N9318H by Albert J. Leeward / Leeward Aeronautical Services, Fort Wayne, IN in 1954. Re-registered as N31J by Southern Aero Inc, in Atlanta, GA in 1956. To C.F. Johnson, in Palm Beach, FL from 1961-64. To Purdue Aeronautical Corp, in Lafayette, IN as of 17 Jan 1963. To Business Aircraft Corp, in San Antonio, TX between 1964-70. Struck-off the US registry on 23 Nov 1970. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-September-17 Accident: 115 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Christie | Kukurski
   1952-June-04 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2224

s/n
 2224
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5488

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115;8

Ex USN, BuNo 34598. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Also with No. 8 (BR) Squadron in 1944. To stored reserve Western Air Command as of 31 Oct 1945. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-October-26 Accident: 115 Squadron Loc: Denman Is Names: Bennett | Grant | Maclean | Pottier
   1946-October-01 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2225

s/n
 2225
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5491

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex USN, BuNo 34601. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. To stored reserve Western Air Command as of 6 Sep 1944. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-September-22 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2226

s/n
 2226
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5492

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex-USN, BuNo 34602. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Also with EAC, dates unknown. Ferried to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1955. US registered as N10476 by Howard Aero Service, in San Antonio TX from 14 Jun 1955 to 1957. Converted to Howard Super Ventura by 16 Oct 1957 at San Antonio, TX, line no. #20. To National Distillers Corp, New York, NY with successive registrations; N100P (1957-59) and N130P (Oct 59). To Pacific Lumber Co, San Francisco, CA with successive registrations: N130PL (Nov 59 - 1961), N430PL (Nov 1961) and N183PL (Dec 1961 - 1964). To John P. Fontaine / Fontaine Truck Equipment Co, in Birmingham, AL from 11 Apr 1964 - 1967. To Robert D. Hodgson from 22 Jan 1968 to 1969. To Scotts Inn Development Co, Columbus, OH from 11 Apr 1969 to 1971. To State Bank of Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL from 2 Aug 1971 to 1972. To Dee Howard Aircraft Sales, San Antonio, TX as of Oct 1972. To James V. & Marlyn S. Pike from Oct 1972 to 1974. To Aero Union Corp, Chico, CA in open storage from 1974 -2001. To Taigh Ramey, Stockton CA from 2001-2003. To Chico Air Museum, Chico CA, displayed in unrestored condition from 2005-2007. No further details 2022-01-24
   1943-July-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-February-28 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2227

s/n
 2227
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5495

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex-USN, BuNo 34605. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. One of the first two Venturas they received. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1954. US registered as N5390N by Howard Aero Service, in San Antonio TX from 1954 to 1959. Became the prototype Super Ventura demonstrator a/c during this period. Re-registered as N46F to Hunt Oil Co, Dallas, TX from 1961-69. Re-registered as N4680 by D.U. Howard, in San Antonio TX as 3 mar 1969. To Clarks Aerial Service, Brownfield TX and converted for agricultural use: duster/spreader from 24 Jul 1969 to 1977. Struck-off US registry on 24 Mar 1977. But later presumed to have crashed / been abandoned during drug ops. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1957-March-19 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2228

s/n
 2228
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5497

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex-USN, BuNo 34607. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. One of the first two Venturas they received. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON from 1952-55. US registered as N75382 by Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX from 14 Jun 1955 to 1959.. Flew in 1959 with "Howard 500" titles for publicity purposes. Re-registered as N100M still with Howard Aero Service on 8 Aug 1959. Conversion to Pressurised Ventura completed at San Antonio on 27 Jan 1960, line no. #28: model renamed Howard 400 and registered as N510N by Howard Aero Service. To Northern Natural Gas, Omaha, NE from Jan 1960 - 61. The a/c’s undercarriage retracted on landing, Billings, MT on 12 Apr 1965. Re-registered as N501N to Northern Natural Gas, Omaha, NE from 22 May 1961 until 1965. To Nello L.Teer Co, Durham, NC from 17 Mar 1965 to 1972. To Dee Howard Co, San Antonio, TX as of 31 Jan 1971. To A.P. St.Philip Inc, Tampa, FL for 1972-75. To Casey Aviation Inc, Pittsburgh, PA in 1975-76. To Transecutive Aviation, Pittsburgh, PA in 1976-77. Re-registered as N2ES still with Transecutive Aviation from 1977-84. Re-registered as N52ES still with Transecutive Aviation on 2 Jun 1984. To R. M. Richards / Onyx Aviation, Miami, FL in Oct 1984. To Clifton F. Albright, in Memphis TN as 29 Oct 1984. Sale to Edwin B. Dearborn, Kenner, LA on 12 Nov 1984 not completed and was reported at Ft Lauderdale in Aug 1984. Reported on internet as displayed in Aeronautical Museum at Catam AFB, Columbia, painted to represent Lodestar of the Columbian AF.. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-February-28 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2229

s/n
 2229
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5373

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex-USN, BuNo 33364. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Struck off and sold and US registered as NX5387N to D.U. Howard, San Antonio, TX in 1956. Re-registered as N101G to Gulf Research & Development Co, Pittsburgh, PA in 1958. Crashed near New Braufels, TX on 9 Jul 1958. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-September-22 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2230

s/n
 2230
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5489

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex-USN, BuNo 34599. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Struck and sold. US registered as N10484 to Howard Aero Service Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1955. Converted to Howard Super Ventura in Oct 1957 at San Antonio TX, line no. #19. Re-registered as N4900 to United Transports Inc, Oklahoma City, OK in 1959. To Mid Continent Leasing Co, Amarillo, TX from 1963-68. To King Resources Inc, Denver, CO from 1968-70. To Lee J. Matherne, Houma, LA on 8 Dec 1970 but struck-off US registry by 31 Dec 1970. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2231

s/n
 2231
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5494

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex-USN, BuNo 34604. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1943 to 1944. Flew this unit's last operation, an anti-submarine patrol from Tofino, BC, on 17 Aug 1944. Ferried to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 25 May 1945. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1954. US registered as N10483 by Howard Aero Service, in San Antonio TX from 24 Sep 1954 to 1956. Re-registered as N101P (8 Jun 1956 - 57) and N711R (31 Jan 1957) still with Howard Aero. Converted to Howard Super Ventura by 27 May 1957 at San Antonio, TX, line no. #14. To E. Cockrell / Cockrell Corp, in Houston, TX from 27 May 1957 to 1970; (conversion. to Howard 350 completed 8 Feb 1965). Re-registered as N815G by Robert B. Phillips / Phillips Advertising Co, in Tulsa OK from 9 Apr 1970 to 1973. To Jean Everest Rental Co, Oklahoma City, OK as of 12 Feb 1973. To Executive Aviation Ltd, Oklahoma City, OK from 2 Apr 1974 to 1975 with survey camera hatch mods. by Hill Air Co. completed in Oct 1975. Impounded for drug running at Teterboro, NJ on 22 Mar 1976. To Jerry Langer & H. Rosenburg as of 3 May 1978. To Air Carriers Inc, Miami, FL from Aug 1978 to 1985. Later broken-up for scrap at Opa Locka. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-22 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-August-22 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2232

s/n
 2232
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5375
Ex-USN, BuNo 33366. Assigned to Western Air Command. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 25 May 1945. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON and registered as CF-FSL from 1956-59. US registered as N4970C by Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX in Apr 1959. Converted to Howard 500 configuration at San Antonio by 22 Aug 1960; Howard 500 (c/n 500-104). Registered as N420L to Avco Distributing Co, New York, NY from 18 Jul 1960 to 1965. To Republic Steel Corp, Cleveland, OH from 1965-66 as N4201. Later N3031(1965-1967) then N8031 (1967-68) still with Republic Steel Corp. To Mene Grande Oil Co, Venezuela as 9 Sep 1968 registered as YV-P-AEK and later N8033 in the US. To F.J. Boutell Driveaway Inc, Flint, MI as N80BD on 2 Aug 1971. To Red River Ranch Inc, Fort Lauderdale, FL from 12 Oct 1976. Reported destroyed after in flight wing failure, while smuggling drugs, near Yosemite, CA on 9 December 1976. E-mail report that 6,000 pounds of marijuana were found in the wreckage. The movie "Cliff Hanger" is reportedly based on this crash, with the story "cleaned up" for public consumption. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-28 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-February-28 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2233

s/n
 2233
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5487
c/r
 CF‑FAW

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex USN, BuNo 34597. Served with No. 8 (BR) Squadron on west coast, coded "K". With Air Armament School at Trenton in 1948, equipped with TIA bombsight (type used in RCAF Lancasters post war). To civil register as CF-FAW, off register by 1976.Ex-USN, BuNo 34597. Served with No. 8 (BR) Squadron on west coast, coded "K". Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Struck and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1953 and registered as CF-FAW. Returned to Gander, NF via Prestwick on 16 Apr 1953 after survey in Liberia, with camera installed in belly of rear fuselage, and sporting white and grey paint scheme with blue trim. On 18 Apr 1953, the a/c went missing en route from Gander NF to Ottawa, ON. 2022-01-24
   1943-July-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-March-10 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240 | 1968 625

Ventura 2234

s/n
 2234
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5493
Ex USN, BuNo 34603. To No. 2 AC on 8 Dec 1944. To EAC on 31 Jul 1945. With Air Armament School at Trenton when it suffered an engine fire on landing at Trenton on 22 June 1948. 2024-01-04
   1943-July-31 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-July-08 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2235

s/n
 2235
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5380
Ex USN, BuNo 33371. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "E". With No. 34 Operational Training Unit when it suffered Category A damage at 04:35 on 23 June 1945. Overshot landing, ploughed through soft field and came to rest on public road. No injuries. Pilot reported being unnerved after witnessing earlier crash and explosion of Ventura 2199 . 2024-01-04
   1943-August-06 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-March-05 Accident: OT Squadron Loc: Pennfield Ridge Names: Arnold | Carter | Mckinnon
1945-June-22 Accident: OTS Loc: Aerodrome Names: Barrett | Belanger | Charters | Close | Couture
   1945-July-17 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2236

s/n
 2236
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5591
Ex-USN, BuNo 34701. Assigned to Western Air Command. Coded “W”. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1954. US registered as N5393N by Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX from 17 Sep 1954 to 1956. Re-registered as N345 still with Howard Aero on 5 Jun 1956. Leased to Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co, Youngstown, OH in 1956. Re-registered as N111M by Howard Aero from 31 Aug 1956 to 1957 and converted to Howard Super Ventura configuration by 11 Jan 1957 at San Antonio line no. #10. To Gamble-Skogmo Inc, Minneapolis, MN from 12 Jan 1957 to 1961. Reregistered as N191N still with Gamble-Skogmo Inc from 12 Jun 1961 to 1962. Conversion to Howard 350 configuration completed 23 Apr 1962. To Minnesota Airmotive, Minneapolis, MN on 3 Oct 1962. To Investors Diversified Services Inc. in Nov 1962. Back to Gamble-Skogmo Inc, Minneapolis MN from Nov 1964-65. To Simpson Timber Co, Seattle, WA from 1965-69. Reregistered as N593W by R. H. Bentley, San Antonio, TX on 1 Apr 1969. To Sealy Mattress Co, Houston, TX from 16 May 1969 to 1971. To Austin Management Co from Dec 1971 to 1973. To Mobile Housing Inc, Dallas, TX from 11 Jun 1973. Conversion to Howard Super 350 had been completed by 11 Jun 1973. To J. A. Schell & Al Larkins on 21 Jun 1974. To Raymond F. Johnson, Chicago, IL from 1974-76. To Drug Enforcement Agency, San Antonio, TX on 21 Jul 1976. To US Customs Air Support Unit being impounded, stored at Kelly AFB, TX from 1976-80. To Georgia Historical Aviation Museum, Stone Mountain, GA from 1980-81. To Oklahoma Aircraft Corp, Yukon, OK from 1981-82. To Graham L. Kendall, Oklahoma City, OK from 1982-91. Later presumed to have crashed or been abandoned during drug ops. 2022-01-24
   1943-August-12 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-September-22 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-24
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2237

s/n
 2237
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5593
Assigned to No. 2 TC on 13 Nov 1944. To No. 2 AC on 1 Dec 1944. To EAC on 31 Jul 1945. To stored reserve as of 15 Sep 1945. 2022-01-25
   1943-August-12 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-July-08 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2238

s/n
 2238
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5590
Ex-USN, BuNo 34700. Assigned to No. 2 TC on 13 Nov 1944. To No. 2 AC on 1 Dec 1944. To EAC on 31 Jul 1945. To stored reserve at Greenwood, NS as of 15 Sep 1945. 2022-01-25
   1943-August-12 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-July-08 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2239

s/n
 2239
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5592
Ex USN, BuNo 34702. Ferried from factory in California to Scoudouc, NB 10-15 August 1943 by No. 124 (Ferry) Squadron. No. 145 (BR) Squadron, Eastern Air Command, RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Flew this unit's last operational mission, a patrol from Dartmouth on 9 June 1945. 0000-01-01
   1943-August-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2240

s/n
 2240
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5594

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex USN, BuNo 34704. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "I". Used to prototype "Red Light" installation. Operated by Test & Development Establishment at RCAF Station Rockcliffe, Ontario. Suffered “C” Cat crash on 25 Jul 1944. 2022-01-25
   1943-August-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-July-15 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Andruchuk | Lumley | MacDermid | Scott | Sime | Stanley
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2241

s/n
 2241
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5596

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex USN, BuNo 34706. Served with No. 145 (BR) Squadron at RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS in 1943/45. Coded "Z". To stored reserve as of 28 Nov 1944. 2022-01-25
   1943-August-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2242

s/n
 2242
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5597
Ex USN, BuNo 34707. Possibly with No. 1 Central Navigation School at Rivers Camp, Manitoba im mid 1945. Served with Eastern Air Command and Western Air Command, dates unknown. 0000-01-01
   1943-August-18 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-July-08 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2243

s/n
 2243
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5595

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex USN, BuNo 34705. With No. 8 (BR) Squadron, coded "D". To stored reserve EAC as of 13 Sep 1944. 2022-01-25
   1943-August-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2244

s/n
 2244
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5599

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 34709. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c. 1943 to 1945. Coded "D". Struck and sold. Displayed on a garage roof, at Tacoma WA for 1950-51. Sold to Fruehauf Trailer Co, Detroit, MI in May 1951. Registered as N1206 from 1952-56 by Fruehauf Trailer Co. Acquired by Howard Aero Service Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1956 for conversion to Howard Super Ventura. Registered as N5034F to Firestone Tire & Rubber Co, Akron, OH form 1961-68. Converted in Oct 1964 as Business Aircraft BA-400 at San Antonio TX: pressurised Howard 500 fuselage with Super Ventura wing. To AiResearch Aviation, Los Angeles CA in 1968. To University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA November 1968-69 registered as N1970H. Reregistered as N197RD to Rowan Drilling Co, Houston, TX from Nov 1969 to 1972. To Lamb Industries Inc, Lafayette, LA in 1972. Re-registered as N100LR still with Lamb Industries Inc, for 1973-74. To B.B. McCormick & Sons Inc, Jacksonville, FL form 1974-77. To George H. Bailey Co, Fort Wayne, IN as 31 Oct 1977. As of 18 Nov 1977 sold to a buyer in Venezuela, and struck-off US register. registered as YV-183CP. Still stored at Opa Locka, FL, as of Nov 1979. Returned to Venezuela, Apr 1984. Stored at the Santa Marta-Simon Boliver airport, Columbia by Feb 1990. Stated in some refs as owned by ATRAMAR. Transferred to Bogota by Nov 1992. In open storage at Eldorado by Mar 1997. To Aeronautical Museum in Bogota at Catam AFB in 1997 and repainted as FA Columbia (Lodestar) #654. 2022-01-25
   1943-August-25 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2245

s/n
 2245
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5696?
Ex-USN, BuNo 34806. Assigned to EAC. To stored reserve EAC as of 30 Apr 1945. To No. 1 AC on 21 jan 1946. To AV Roe in Malton, ON on 2 Jul 1946 to be outfitted as a Bomb & Gunnery trainer. To No. AAS in RCAF Stn Trenton, ON on 26 Mar 1947. On 4 Jul 1950 the a/c suffered “C” Cat damage after sinking into soft soil on the Muskoka Airport runway and nosing over. Struck and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1955. US registered as N10480 by Howard Aero Service, San Antonio, TX from 1955-56. Converted to Howard Super Ventura configuration by Aug 1956 at San Antonio, line no. #6. Registered as N711Z to Triangle Conduit & Cable, Morristown, NJ from 3 Aug 1956 until 1961. The a/c was damaged when it ran off the runway at Morristown on 13 May 1959. To Commonwealth Plan Inc, Boston, MA in 1963. Also leased to Pennzoil Co in 1963. Reregistered as N9221R by Commonwealth Plan Inc, Boston, MA in 1964. To C.C. Leasing Corp, Baltimore, MD for 1965-66. The a/c was damaged when the landing gear retracted before takeoff at El Paso, TX on 28 Feb 1966. To Aerodyne Engineering Co, Dallas TX in 1967. The landing gear again collapsed on takeoff, Dallas-Love, TX on 28 Feb 1967. To Dee Howard Co, San Antonio, TX for 1967-68. Registered as N446D by Dumod Corp, Opa Locka, FL as of 8 Jan 1968. Registered as N446DD by Coral Drilling Inc, Midland, TX from 31 May 1968 to 1969. To Aviation Services Inc, Little Rock, AR in 1969. To Beta Leasing Inc, Dallas, TX from 12 Dec 1969 to 1972. The a/c crashed and was destroyed after landing on one engine, when it ran off the runway and down a residential street in Austin, TX on 3 Aug 1972. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-13 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1957-March-18 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2246

s/n
 2246
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5694
Ex-USN, BuNo 34804. To stored reserve 2 AC as of 30 Apr 1945. To AV Roe in Malton, ON on 6 Feb 47 to be outfitted as target tug. On 15 Aug 1949, the a/c’s lower wing skin and port flap were damaged by the premature explosion of at least two practice bombs when sixteen practice bombs were accidentally jettisoned by a trainee. Cat “D” accident on 27 Mar 1951 after a TT mission when the tail wheel folded on landing and the a/c swung causing the port u/c to collapse. No injuries to the crew. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1955. US registered as N10481 by D.U. Howard, San Antonio, TX from 1955-56. Starting in Mar 1956, conversion to Howard Super Ventura started and was completed by 1 Apr 1957 at San Antonio, line no. #13. Registered as N28C to Kudner Agency Inc, New York, NY from 1 Apr 1957 to 1958. Registered as N20S to Storer Broadcasting Co, Miami, FL for 1958-61. The a/c was damaged on 5 Sep 1958 when JATO bottles fired on ground at La Guardia, NY. Re-registered as N208S still with Storer Broadcasting on 23 Jan 1961. On 7 Nov 1961 to Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX for conversion to Howard 350 configuration. To Oral Roberts Evangelistic Assoc., Tulsa, OK from1961-69. The a/c ground suffered collision with DC-7 N632C, at Denver, CO on 24 Jan 1965. To Camp Meeting Revival Inc, Arlington TX from 1969-74. To Church of Compassion, Dallas, TX from 1974-78. To Aircraft Associates, Long Beach, CA from 1978-79. Impounded on 28 Mar 1979 until 1981 by Polk County Sheriffs Dept, FL due to drug running. To Don M. Hendricks/ Hendricks Aero Service from 1 Apr 1981-82. To Airlift Inc, Marietta GA as of 5 Feb 1982. To Skyrider Airfreight Inc, Tulsa, OK as of 22 Feb 1982. Sold on 12 Jul 1982 to Alpha & Omega Richard Lee & Steve Kehmeler but sale not completed. Later presumed to have crashed or been abandoned during drug ops. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-13 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1957-March-18 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2247

s/n
 2247
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5697
Ex-USN, BuNo 34807. Assigned to WAC. To stored reserve WAC as of 6 Sep 1944. Back to WAC on 3 Nov 1944. Back to stored reserve as of 25 May 1945. The a/c was ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Struck off and sold to Douglas W. Siple / Siple Aviation Ltd, Montreal, QC in 1952. US registered as N5779N by Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL from 3 Apr 1952-53. Noted at Long Beach, CA on 20 Mar 1953, still in weathered RCAF paintwork and roundels marked as “2247 / R”. To Ohio Oil Co/ Marathon Oil Co, Findlay, OH from 27 Jun 1953-57 and civil conversion to executive aircraft completed by 2 Aug 1954 by Ohio Aviation Co. To Trans International Airlines, Oakland CA form 31 Jan 1957 to 1962. Registered as N151V to Raymond J. Leeward / Trans International Airlines, Miami, FL from 10 Sep 1962 to 1963. To Angels Inc, Tampa, FL from Dec 1963 to 1966. To Southaire Inc, in Memphis, TN as of 4 Apr 1966. To Carolina Aircraft Corp, Fort Lauderdale, FL as of 9 Aug 1966. To John W. Debaun, in Hewitt NJ from 8 Oct 1966 to 1970 and the a/c was named Winnie June Flying Camper. To Lonnie D. Clark / Clarks Aerial Service, Brownfield, TX from 23 Jan 1970 to 1977 where it was converted to an agricultural duster / spreader. To Brownfield Aerial Inc, Brownfield TX from 7 Oct 1977-78. To I.N. "Junior" Burchinal / Flying Tigers Air Museum, in Paris TX from Nov 1978 to 1983.To James P. MacIvor, Miami, FL as of 14 Feb 1983. To USMC Museum, MCAS Quantico, VA in open storage as of 20 Jun 1983. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-16 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-July-08 Accident: 115 Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Martino | Rogers
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2248

s/n
 2248
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5598

Known Squadron Assignments: ;113

Ex-USN, BuNo 34708. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "B". To stored reserve as of 8 Aug 1945. Struck off and sold. US registered as N5065N by Spartan Aircraft Co, Tulsa, OK, dates unknown. Converted to executive configuration by Spartan Aero. Registered as N3030 to Republic Steel Corp, Cleveland, OH from 1949-59. Conversion to Howard Super Ventura completed by Jun 1960 at San Antonio ,TX, line no. #2 and re-registered as N3060 still with Republic Steel Corp. To Wings Leasing Corp, Reno, NV from 1963-64 and re-registered as N30606 still with Wings Leasing Corp from Dec 1964 to 1966. To Dee Howard Co, San Antonio,TX in Oct 1966 as N16777. Converted in San Antonio by Nov 1966 to Howard 350 configuration but marketed as "Howard Eldorado 700". To Interstate Aircraft Leasing Corp, Columbus, OH for 1967-69. To Scoa Industries Inc,Columbus, OH from 1969-70. To Lease Air Inc, Youngstown OH for Dec 1970-1971. Registered as N25YC to Youngstown Cartage Co, Youngstown, OH on 18 Jan 1971. The a/c crashed and was destroyed during a landing at Philadelphia, PA on 11 Sep 1971.
2022-01-25
   1943-September-18 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2249

s/n
 2249
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5698?
Ex-USN, BuNo 34808. Assigned to EAC. Used by 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge. Coded “L” to stored reserve as of 30 Jan 45. Struck and sold. US Registered as N64009 by Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL, in 1948-49. Re-registered as N51A to Parker Pen Co, Janesville, WI in 1952-54. Then became N2329 with Champion Paper & Fibre Co, Hamilton, OH in 1955. Reregistered as N24CP still with Champion Paper & Fibre Co form 1957-61. To Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1963. To Business Aircraft Corp, San Antonio TX from 1963-1970. Was given partial conversion to Howard 350 configuration in Nov1963. Struck-off the US register by 23 Nov 1970. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-24 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 240

Ventura 2250

s/n
 2250
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5699?
Ex USN, BuNo 34809. Served with Eastern Air Command and Western Air Command, dates unknown. To stored reserve No. 2 AC as of 30 jan 1945. To stored reserve EAC as of 6 Apr 1945. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-24 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2251

s/n
 2251
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5701
Ex USN, BuNo 34811. With Western Air Command Meteorological Flight at RCAF Station Patricia Bay 1944/1945. Prototype wireless installation on 21 May 1945.To stored reserve as of 3 Oct 1945. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-24 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2252

s/n
 2252
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5703?

Known Squadron Assignments: ;122

Ex-USN, BuNo 34813. With No. 122(K) Squadron at RCAF Stn Sea Island, BC, 1944/45. To stored reserve WAC as of 19 Jul 1944. Back to WAC on 15 Dec 1944. Back to stored reserve as of 18 Sep 1945. . 2022-01-25
   1943-September-23 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2253

s/n
 2253
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5705?

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 34815. With No. 8 (BR) Squadron in 1945. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Struck off and sold to D.U. Howard, San Antonio. TX and registered as N5394N from 1954-56. Conversion to Howard Super Ventura configuration was completed in Jul 1957 at San Antonio TX, line no. #17. Registered as N685 to D.U. Howard lso in 1957. To Standard Oil Co, Chicago, IL from 1961-65. Registered as N910V to Nine Ten Corp, Chicago, IL from 1 Jun 1965 until 1972 and operated for Standard Oil. To IMC Mint Corp in 1973. To Sky High Inc in 1975. To John A. O'Connell, in Miami, FL for 1977-78. To Indiana Board of Pharmacy, Indianapolis, IN as of Jun 1978. Seized by Hendry County Sheriff, La Belle, FL due to drugs for 1979-80. To Southern Aero Traders, Opa Locka, FL for 1980-82. Struck-off the US register by Nov 1983. Later presumed to have crashed or been abandoned during drug ops. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-23 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-September-22 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2254

s/n
 2254
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5702
Ex-USN, BuNo 34812. To stored reserve WAC on 21 Jun 1944. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. To AV Roe in Malton, ON to be converted to target tug on 2 Aug 1946. Dazzle painted in overall yellow with black diagonal stripes. To No. 1 AAS at RCAF Stn Trenton as of 11 Aug 1947. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1953. US registered as N1079 by D.U. Howard in San Antonio, TX. Converted to Howard Super Ventura configuration by Mar 1957 at San Antonio, line no. #12. Registered as N200P to National Distillers Corp, New York, NY from 1956-61. Re-registered as N200G to Green Construction Co, Owensboro, KY in 1961. From Nov 1962 to 1964 to Business Aircraft Corp, San Antonio, TX as N539N and converted to Howard 350 configuration. To Reading-Bates Offshore Drilling, Tulsa, OK from 1964-69. To Dee Howard Aircraft Sales Inc, San Antonio, TX from 1969-72, To L.M. Adamson Construction Co, Marietta, GA from 19 Nov 1973 until 1976. Struck-off US register in 1976. Later presumed to have crashed or been abandoned during drug ops. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-24 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1951-March-18 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2255

s/n
 2255
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5700
Ex-USN, BuNo 34810. Assigned to WAC. To stored reserve as of 25 May 1945. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Struck off and sold to D. U. Howard / Howard Aero, San Antonio, TX registered as N5392N for 1954-56. To D.H. Braman, Victoria, TX in 1956. Conversion to Howard Super Ventura completed by Jun 1956 at San Antonio. line no. #3. Registered as N539 to Copano Oil, Victoria, TX in 1957. To Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1959. The a/c’s gear collapsed on landing at San Antonio, TX on 7 May 1959. To Utex Exploration Co, Moab, UT from 1959-61. Registered as N350S to Business Aircraft Corp, San Antonio, TX in 1963-64 and converted to Howard 350 at San Antonio in Jun 1963. To French
Oil & Tool Co, Odessa, TX for 1964-69. Leased to George W. Downs Agency, Freedom, CA for 1967-68. To Financial South Leasing Corp, New Orleans, LA for 1969-72. To Tom Hill, Richardson, TX in 1973. To Onyx Aviation Inc, Miami, FL in 1974. Registered as N555JM to United Engines Inc, Oklahoma City, OK in 1974. Registered as N855JM to Onyx Aviation Inc, Miami FL in 1976. To B.L. Skidmore, Miramar, FL as of 10 Feb 1977. Later seized by US Customs Service in Miami FL in 1977. To Crossroads State Bank and auctioned off in Feb 1978. Struck-off the US register by Feb 1980. Later presumed to have crashed or been abandoned during drug ops. 2022-01-25
   1943-September-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-September-22 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2256

s/n
 2256
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5887
Ex-USN, BuNo 34997. Assigned to WAC. To stored reserve as of 30 Jan 1945. To AV Roe in Malton, ON and converted to target tug on 22 Jan 1948. To AAS RCAF Station Trenton, ON as of 14 Apr 1949. To 6 RD as of 27 Feb 1953. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1955. US registered as N10478 by Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX from 1955 to 1961. Converted to Howard Super Ventura by Jul 1957 at San Antonio, line no. #15. Registered as N5033F to Firestone Tire & Rubber Co, Akron, OH from 1961-68. To Aircraft Trading Co, in San Antonio, TX from 1968-69. To Coastal States Gas Producing Co, Houston, TX form 1969-70. To Karan Corp, in Minneapolis, MN as of 24 Aug 1972. Suffered ground-loop on takeoff and struck a fence in Lakeville, MN on 10 Jul 1972. Later crashed during a landing and was destroyed by fire, at Tucumcari, NM on 3 Dec 1972. 2022-01-25
   1943-November-16 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1957-March-18 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2257

s/n
 2257
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5249?
Ex-USN, BuNo 33240. To No. 3 TC on 16 Feb 1944. To stored reserve No. 2 AC as of 10 Jan 1945. To AV Roe in Malton, ON to be converted to target tug on 2 Aug 1946. Dazzle painted in overall yellow with black diagonal stripes. To RCAF Station Trenton, ON on 24 Sep 1947. To No. 6 RD on 21 Jul 1952. Struck off and later sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1955. Sold to US as N10488 with Howard Aero Service, San Antonio, TX and converted to Howard Super Ventura configuration in 1956 at San Antonio, line no. #4. Registered as N340 to National Steel Corp, Pittsburgh, PA from 1955 to 1969. Damaged in a ground loop, at Valparaiso, IN on 15 Apr 1968 and later repaired. Sold and registered as N3403 to National Steel Corp, West Mifflin, PA. Struck a snowbank on takeoff, Otsego County, MI on 2 Mar 1969. 2022-01-25
   1943-November-16 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1957-March-18 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2258

s/n
 2258
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5880?
Ex-USN, BuNo 34990. Assigned to EAC on 25 May 1944. To stored reserve as of 1 Jul 1945. Stuck off and sold. US registered as N64002 to Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL in 1948-49. Converted to executive configuration by Spartan Aero circa 1953. Registered as N21W to Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Corp, Houston, TX from 1954-64. Suffered a wing fire on engine start, at Atlantic City, NJ on 9 Sep 1962. Registered as N216U to American Machinery & Foundry Co, Shreveport, LA as of 4 May 65. To Florida Aircraft Leasing Corp, Miami, FL for 1965-66. To Miami Aviation Corp, Opa Locka, FL in 1966. To Palm Coast Agency Inc/ Lucayan Air Services, Freeport, Bahamas from 31 Mar 1967 to 1971. Sold to a buyer in Uruguay, and struck-off the US register as if 20 Jul 1971. Registered as CX-BCY to Onda S.A., Montevideo for 1971-72. Later presumed to have crashed or been abandoned during drug ops 2022-01-25
   1943-November-23 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength and later sold 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2259

s/n
 2259
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5889?
Ex USN, BuNo 48653. Served with Eastern Air Command and Western Air Command, dates unknown. To stored reserve as of 30 Jan 1945.
2022-01-25
   1943-November-26 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2260

s/n
 2260
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5886
Ex-USN, BuNo 34966. Initially to WAC stored reserve as of 26 Nov 1943. Struck off, after Cat “B” damage on 6 Jul 1945 at Municipal Airport near No. 10 RD. 2022-01-25
   1943-November-26 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-March-05 Accident: 170 Ferry Squadron Loc: Lethbridge Alberta Names: Roberts | Russell | Sanderson
1945-July-06 Accident: 10 Repair Depot Loc: Aerodrome Names: Adams | Armstrong | Fox | Hoseason | Knupp | Patterson
   1945-August-24 Struck off Strength after Category B damage 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2261

s/n
 2261
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5893

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex USN, BuNo 48657. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Station Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c.1943 to 1945. Coded "B". At Abbotsford, BC in 1945. To stored reserve as of 20 Sep 1945. 2022-01-25
   1943-November-26 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-October-26 Accident: 165 TRAir Navigation SchoolPORT Loc: Rcaf Stn Names: Bullock | Cochrane | Dembicky
1945-May-27 Accident: AAB Loc: Sea Island Airport Names: Beattie | Bullock | Dembicki | Graveline | Sykes
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2262

s/n
 2262
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5890
Ex-USN, BuNo 48654. Assigned to WAC as of 13 Dec 1943. To stored reserve as of 30 Jan 1945. To AV Roe in Malton, ON and converted to bombing and gunnery trainer on 6 Feb 1947. To AAS RCAF Stn Trenton on 2 Oct 1948. To storage at 6 RD on 13 Oct 1951. Struck off and sold to Kenting Aviation Ltd, Toronto, ON in 1952. Later US registered as N3949C to Albert J. Leeward / Leeward Aeronautical Service, in Fort Wayne, IN as of 22 Feb 1952. Re-registered as N165H to M.A. Hanna Mining Co, Cleveland OH, from 1952-65. Executive conversion was carried out by Spartan Aero, in Tulsa, OK in 1953. To Ohio State University, in Columbus, OH as of 18 October 1965. To Westernair of Albuquerque, Albuquerque, NM as of 11 Jun 1966. To William C.
Whitesell / Thunderbird Airways, Medford, NJ from 1966-68. To William C. Whitesell / Flying W Airways, Medford, NJ as of 28 May 1968 and converted to agricultural sprayer / seeder configuration in Mar 1969. To Brownfield Aerial Inc, Brownfield, TX form 1977-79. To Oklahoma Aircraft Corp, Yukon, OK as of 21 Mar 1979. To John J. Rutkosky / Flagler Beach Aero, Flagler Beach, CA form 1979-82. To Almeckair Inc, Miami, FL from 1982-84. To Audrey S. McPherson, Fernadina Beach, FL as of 27 Mar 1984 and planned registry of N367 but not take up. Later registered as N165H to PV-1 Ventura Corp, Westo, MA from 6 Nov 1984 to 1990 with a planned restoration to military PV-1 configuration as a warbird. To Airplane Sales International Corp, Beverly Hills, CA from 1990-95. To Museu Aeroespacial, Campos dos Afonsos AB, in Rio de Janeiro and restored to military configuration at the Museum from 1996-98; displayed as of 2000 fully restored as a FA Brasileira aircraft. 2022-01-25
   1943-December-03 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-March-14 Accident: 170 Ferry Squadron Loc: Aerodrome Names: Magwood | Seeley | Simpson
   1952-March-05 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2263

s/n
 2263
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5892
Ex-USN, BuNo 48656. Assigned to WAC. Fitted with dual controls. Suffered Cat “B” wheels-up landing at Port Hardy, BC on 2 Feb 1944. Converted to bombing and gunnery trainer on 22 Jun 1948. Served with No. 1 Aerial Armament School, at RCAF Stn Trenton, Ontario, Struck off and sold. US registered as N5549N to Albert C. Leeward / Leeward Aero Sales Inc, Fort Wayne, IN from 1954-56. To Trade Ayer Inc, Linden, NJ in 1957. Registered as N18N to Union Carbide & Carbon Corp, New York, NY in 1958. Re-registered as N181V to Volusia Locations, Saratoga, WY in 1961. To International Aircraft Service, Oakland, CA for 1963-64. To Business Aircraft Corp, San Antonio, TX in 1964 and converted to Howard 350 at San Antonio in Mar 1965. Registered as N510RA to Robbins Aviation Corp, Pontiac, MI in Dec 1964. Registered as N510R to G.W. Corp, Chicago, IL from 1965-68. Registered as N350Q to Westernair of Albuquerque,
Albuquerque, NM from 1968-69. To Aviation Equipment Corp of America Inc, Washington, DC for 1969-70. To Capitol Florida Associates Inc, Alexandria, VA as of 10 Apr 1970. The a/c landed wheels-up and was destroyed by fire, at Opa Locka, FL on 18 Aug 1970. 2022-01-25
   1943-December-03 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1953-October-16 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2264

s/n
 2264
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5894?
Ex-USN, BuNo 48658. Assigned to WAC. Ferried through Winnipeg, en route to Rockcliffe, on 9 Mar 1947. In use at RCAF Stn Trenton, Ontario in 1952. Struck off strength and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa ,ON in 1955. US registered as Howard Aero Service Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1955-56 and converted to Howard Super Ventura by Sep 1956 at San Antonio line no. #7. Registered as N99G to Gulf Oil Corp, Pittsburgh, PA as of 31 Aug 1956 and fitted with under-belly RATO rockets in 1957. Registered as N36R to JAR Corp, Miami, FL in 1959. To Ryder System Inc, Miami, FL for 1959-60. Back to JAR Corp, Miami, FL for 1961. Converted to Howard 350 configuration at San Antonio circa 1961. Registered as N236R to Butler Co, Chicago, IL for 1962-64. The a/c was damaged in a heavy landing at Washington, DC on 23 Jul 1962. To Russell Stover Candies Inc, Lincoln, NE for 1964-68. To Robertson Aircraft Co, Dallas, TX for 1968-70. To Dan Futrell, Nashville, AR for 1971-72. To MET Transportation Co, Jenkins, KY in 1972. Registered as N10TP to Tesoro Petroleum Inc, Manila, Philippines as of Jan 1973 and delivered to the Philippines via Oakland, CA in Mar 1973. To International Fruit & Produce Co, Manila, Philippines as of 2 Feb 1973. The a/c crashed and was destroyed after a forced landing in a rice field, near Iloilo, Philippines on 22 Jun 1973. 2022-01-25
   1943-December-03 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1957-March-18 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2265

s/n
 2265
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5891
Ex-USN, BuNo 48655. Assigned to WAC. Ferried from Patricia Bay, BC to Vulcan, AB for storage pending disposal on 21 May 1945. Struck off and sold to Douglas W. Siple / Siple Aviation Ltd, Montreal QC in 1953. US registered as N10487 by Universal Trading Corp, New York, NY as of Nov 1953. To Howard Aero Services Inc, San Antonio, TX and converted to Howard Super Ventura configuration completed as of 13 Jun 1957 at San Antonio, line no. #16. Registered as N515 to Ohio Oil Co, Findlay, OH for 1957-61. Back to Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX as N511U and converted to Howard 350 configuration at San Antonio in 1962. Back to Ohio Oil Co/ Marathon Oil Co, Findlay, OH for 1962-63. To Lone Star Steel Co, Dallas TX as N151LS from 1963-67. Registration changed to N1514S still with Lone Star Steel Co for 1967-68. To Hunsaker Truck Lease Inc in Carrollton, TX from 1968-1973. To Dee Howard Aircraft Sales, San Antonio, TX as of 25 Sep 1973. To Vernon R. Shurmon, in Brownville, TX as of 2 Nov 1973. To Reagan & Co, San Antonio, TX from 1974-75 To Millwood Aviation, in New York, NY from 1975-78. To Ventura Air Inc, Miami, FL from 1978-79. To Inter Island Shipping Inc, West End, Bahamas as of 8 Mar 1979. The a/c made forced landing in a swamp Dania, FL after take-off from Fort Lauderdale, FL, and was destroyed by an ensuing fire on 26 May 1979. 2022-01-25
   1943-December-09 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1950-August-11 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-25
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2266

s/n
 2266
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: ;145

Ex USN, BuNo 48737. Lost at sea, out of Dartmouth, NS, 1945-02-03 2022-01-26
   1944-December-28 Taken on Strength 2020-10-02
1945-February-03 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Names: McColman | Northgrave | O'Connell | Smith
   1945-April-25 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
1945-February-03 KIA RCAF Sergeant James Murray McColman 2023-02-13
1945-February-03 KIA RCAF Sergeant John Milne Northgrave 2023-02-15
1945-February-03 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Robert Emmett O'Connell 2023-02-15
1945-February-03 KIA RCAF Flying Officer John Moody Smith 2023-02-16
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2267

s/n
 2267
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN, BuNo 34901. With No. 113 (BR) Squadron in Nova Scotia, c.1943 to 1944. Coded "K". 0000-01-01
   1944-January-06 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-April-21 Accident: 145 Squadron Loc: Moncton Aerodrome Names: Baxter | Britt | Fletcher | Leamen | Lemieux
   1945-May-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, after Category A damage on 21 April 1945, at Dartmouth, NS. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2268

s/n
 2268
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5990
Ex-USN, BuNo 48754. At RCAF Stn Torbay, NF in 1945. Sold and US registered as N64006 to Hunter C. Moody / Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL in 1949. Later registered as N5119 with General Motors Corp, Detroit MI from 1954-56. Later became N51190 still with General Motors Corp, Detroit MI from 1960 to 1961. To Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX in 1963. To Business
Aircraft Corp, San Antonio, TX from 1964 to 1970. No further records. 2022-01-26
   1944-January-06 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-January-22 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2269

s/n
 2269
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5987?
Ex-USN, BuNo 48751. Assigned to No. 2 AC on 1 Dec 1944. To EAC on 31 Jul 1945. To stored reserve as of 15 Sep 1945. 2022-01-26
   1944-January-11 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-July-08 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2270

s/n
 2270
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5989?

Known Squadron Assignments: ;170

Ex-USN, BuNo 48753. Struck off, after Cat “A” damage at Winnipeg on 3 Dec 1944. Engine failure from fuel supply problems 2022-01-26
   1944-January-11 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-December-03 Accident: 170 Ferry Squadron Loc: Fleming Saskatchewan Names: Berry | Rutherford | Seeley
   1945-June-21 Struck off Strength Struck off, after Category A damage at Winnipeg on 3 December 1944. 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2271

s/n
 2271
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5992?

Known Squadron Assignments: ;8

Ex-USN, BuNo 48756. Used by No. 8 (BR) Squadron, RCAF Stn Sea Island or Patricia Bay, BC, c. 1943 to 1945. Coded "O". To storage at Calgary, AB on 1 Jun 1946. To AV Roe in Malton, ON and converted to target tug on 8 Mar 1947. To AAS at RCAF Stn Trenton, ON 26 May 1947.
2022-01-26
   1944-January-11 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-September-08 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2272

s/n
 2272
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5991?
Ex USN, BuNo 48755. With No. 122(K) Squadron in BC, 1944/45. Had 395:50 airframe time when struck off. 0000-01-01
   1944-January-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1947-October-29 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold. 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2273

s/n
 2273
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5988?
Ex-USN, BuNo 48752. Assigned to WAC. To stored reserve as of 30 Jan 1945. Struck off and sold to Spartan Air Services Ltd, Ottawa, ON in 1952. US registered as N9319H in 1952. To Henry J. Kaiser Co, Oakland, CA in 1954. To Thatcher Glass Manufacturing Co, Elmira, NY in 1956 and executive conversion completed with the a/c named Halcyon III and registered as N60TG. To Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio ,TX from 1961-62 with conversion as prototype Howard 350 with full mods (c/n H-350-1) completed by Apr 1962. Registered as N350K to Panhandle Eastern Pipe Line, Kansas City, MO from 1962-66. To Dee Howard Co, San Antonio, TX in 1967. To South Texas Natural Gas, Corpus Christi, TX in 1967-68. To 350 Corp, Indianapolis, IN from 1968-71. To Holiday Aero Inc, Clearwater, FL from 1971-77 with a/c named the Blue Max. Retired in open storage, Ft Lauderdale, FL from 1976-80. Struck-off the US register by 25 Jul 1977. 2022-01-26
   1944-January-19 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1952-June-04 Struck off Strength and later sold. 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2274

s/n
 2274
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: ;115

Ex-USN, BuNo 48761. With No. 115 (BR) Squadron in BC, c. 1944. Struck off, after a Cat “A” accident on 12 Feb 1944. The a/c was lost on a ferry flight from Sea island to Smithers, BC. The a/c ditched and sank into deep water after a fuel starvation problem due to pilot error. The crew of two escaped without injury. 2022-01-26
   1944-January-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-February-07 Accident: 149 Squadron Loc: Seymour Narrows Names: Littlejohn | Mcdonald | Thompson
   1944-July-13 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2275

s/n
 2275
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: ;149

Ex-USN, BuNo 48762. Struck off, after Cat “A” damage at Vancouver, BC on 7 Feb 1944. The a/c had to be ditched following engine problems into the Seymour Narrows near Campbell River, BC. The crew of four escaped with only minor injuries. 2022-01-26
   1944-January-28 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-February-07 Accident: 149 Squadron Loc: Seymour Narrows Names: Hall | McCullough | Swiffen
   1944-April-16 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2276

s/n
 2276
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: ;170

Ex-USN, BuNo 48757. Struck off, after crashing on 27 Mar 1945 at Smithers, BC. Cat “A” write-off. The a/c swung on take-off and pilot lifted off but the a/c then crashed and burned. With No. 170 Ferry Flight at time of crash. The ferry pilot escaped with minor burns but the airframe was destroyed. 2022-01-26
   1944-February-11 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1945-March-27 Accident: 170 Ferry Squadron Loc: Smithers British Columbia Names: Mclean | Seeley | Taplin
   1945-June-18 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura 2277

s/n
 2277
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 5097
Ex USN, BuNo 33088. At No. 22 Sub Repair Depot at RCAF Station Sea Island, BC in 1945. Ferried from Sea Island to stored reserve as 4 May 1945. 2022-01-26
   1944-April-14 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
   1946-October-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corp for disposal & later sold 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 241

Ventura AE658

s/n
 AE658
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4001
Prototype Ventura Mk. I. Served with No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Penfield Ridge, NB. Three Category C crashes whiles there: at 02:50 on 26 August 1942, at 18:40 on 8 October 1942, and at 21:10 on 14 December 1942. To No. 4 Repair Depot on 2 August 1943 for salvage, after a Category B crash.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-July-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-August-26 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Gough | Kernaghan | Lowe
1942-October-08 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Ridge Aerodrome Names: Chappell | Mark
1942-December-15 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Ridge Names: Allen | Davis | Hyndman | Matheson
1943-July-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Begg | Binning
   1944-May-16 Struck off Strength reduced to spares and produce 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE659

s/n
 AE659
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4002
Cat “A” crash on 8 Aug 1943, near Lepreau, NB. At 2100 hrs, AE659 with a two-man crew was on a day training flight, practicing single-engine flying, when the port engine failed. As the starboard engine was feathered, both the pilot and WAG made a parachute descent and landed without injury. The a/c crashed and was destroyed. Later allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot on 10 Aug 1943 for salvage.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1943-July-28 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-August-08 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Lepreau Names: Begg | Curtiss
   1943-October-09 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE661

s/n
 AE661
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4004
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To RCAF Station Dartmouth, NS for storage on 7 December 1943, following a Category B crash, pending movement to Clark Ruse Aircraft. To No. 17 Aircraft Inspection Detachment at Moncton, NB on 30 December 1943. Back to Dartmouth on 3 April 1944, apparently without repairs.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-June-16 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-July-06 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Dixon | Wright | Wright
   1944-November-09 Struck off Strength at RCAF Station Dartmouth 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE663

s/n
 AE663
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4006
On 23 Aug 1943 at 00:45 hrs, during a night training flight, a student pilot made a heavy landing and was the a/c was damaged. None of the crew was injured. Assessed as a Cat “B” accident To Clark Ruse for overhaul on 24 Nov 1943. To RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS for disposal on 3 Apr 1944. 2022-01-26
   1942-September-04 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-August-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Begg | Curtis
   1944-November-09 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE664

s/n
 AE664
inst
 A 287
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4007

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash 15 miles north-west of Pennfield Ridge at 11:10 hrs on 26 Sep 1942 when the a/c struck trees during low-level flying. Suffered Cat “B” crash at Pennfield aerodrome at 23:30 hrs on 3 Mar 1943. On taking off on a local night training flight from Pennfield, AE664, swung off the runway owing to port engine cutting out as the a/c become airborne. The a/c was damaged but none of the crew was injured. Later classified as Instructional Airframe #A 287 on 17 Apr 1943, for use as a static trainer at No. 34 OTU. Struck off at No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB.B.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-September-17 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1942-September-26 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Names: Baldchin | Ellis | Foster | French | Mack | Mann | Penn | Warner
1943-March-03 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Downing | Newell
   1943-April-17 Classified Instructional CA A 287 2020-06-12
   1943-October-05 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 485 | 1968 511

Ventura AE665

s/n
 AE665
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4008

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash 15 miles north-west of Pennfield Ridge at 11:10 hrs on 26 Sep 1942 when the a/c struck trees during low-level flying. Suffered Cat “B” crash at Pennfield aerodrome at 23:30 hrs on 3 Mar 1943. On taking off on a local night training flight from Pennfield, AE664, swung off the runway owing to port engine cutting out as the a/c become airborne. The a/c was damaged but none of the crew was injured. Later classified as Instructional Airframe #A. 287 on 17 Apr 1943, for use as a static trainer at No. 34 OTU. Struck off at No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File


2023-03-21
   1942-July-28 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-January-26 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Gulf Of St Lawrence Names: Cormack | Hunter | James
   1943-April-24 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
1943-January-26 KIFA RAAF Pilot Officer Donald Shaw Cormack 2024-04-18
1943-January-26 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant Thomas Matthew Hunter 2022-12-30
1943-January-26 KIFA RAAF Pilot Officer Stanley Joseph James 2022-12-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE666

s/n
 AE666
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4009

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Experienced Cat “B” crash on 19 Jul 43. During a training flight, the pilot reported that he opened both throttles and engines responded normally. After running forward about 300 yards, the port engine failed at about 35 inches manifold pressure. The a/c subsequently swung to the left and ground looped causing tail oleo to collapse and also considerable damage to tail unit. Later allocated on 25 Nov 43 to Clark Ruse Aircraft at Dartmouth, NS for repairs
To RCAF Stn Dartmouth on 3 Apr 1944 for disposal. 2022-01-26
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-July-19 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Anstey | Harrison
   1944-November-09 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE667

s/n
 AE667
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4010
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 28 June 1944. Stored post war at No. 4 Repair Depot, Scoudouc, NB. Had 634:15 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-August-17 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-April-23 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE668

s/n
 AE668
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4011

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To Clark Ruse Aircraft from 17 May 1943 to 3 May 1944 for repairs, following a Cat “B” crash. On 10 May 1943 at 17:10 hrs, On a training flight the a/c was landing in rather heavy cross wind. The instructor took over from pupil but was unable to correct resultant swing and a/c ran over some rough ground causing u/c to collapse. The crew was uninjured. To EAC when completed. Available for disposal with EAC from 19 Jul 1944. Stored post war at No. 4 Repair Depot, Scoudouc, NB and No. 9 RD at Stanley, NS. Had 492:50 hours of total flying time and 2:55 hours since overhaul when struck off. 2022-01-26
   1942-August-25 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-May-10 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Croudis | Nunn | Page | Sampson | Watters
   1947-April-23 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE669

s/n
 AE669
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4012

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Assigned to No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 25 Nov 1943, at 1510 hrs, a flying instructor returning from a ferrying flight, received instructions from the Control Tower to land AE669 short on runway, owing to an obstruction at the windward end. In carrying out a precautionary landing, the a/c touched a snow bank causing the port oleo leg to collapse. The a/c was damaged but the pilot was uninjured. To No. 4 Repair Depot from 14 Dec 1943 to 5 Apr 1944 for repairs, following this Cat “B” crash. To No. 21 RD at Moncton, NB for repairs on 7 Feb 1944. Back to EAC on 5 Apr 1944. Available for disposal from 19 Jul 1944. Stored post-war at Stanley, NS with 674:45 airframe hours 2022-01-26
   1942-September-04 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-November-25 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Allen | White
   1947-April-23 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE670

s/n
 AE670
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4013

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On the 09 Jun 1943 at 12:30 hrs, the a/c suffered a “C”Cat accident during a local day training flight, the pilot made a heavy landing. The port oleo strut fractured and the wheel and part of strut came off. The a/c then swung off runway but with no crew injuries. To Clark Ruse Aircraft for repairs, from 16 Jun 1943 to 4 Mar 1944. To stored reserve with EAC when completed. Available for disposal from 28 Jun 1944. Stored post war at No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB. Had 629:58 airframe hours when struck off. 2022-01-26
   1942-August-20 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-June-09 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Frost | Miller
   1947-April-23 Struck off Strength to War Assets Corporation for sale 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE671

s/n
 AE671
inst
 A 324
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4014
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Category B crash at Pennfield Ridge aerodrome at 19:30 on 16 February 1943. To No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 15 March 1943, back to EAC on 17 April 1943. Classified as Instructional Airframe A 324 on 13 July 1943. Had been RCAF AE671 2020-06-12
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-February-16 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Arnold | Nuttall | White
   1943-July-13 Classified Instructional CA A 324 2020-06-12
   1945-September-14 Struck off Strength Struck off, scrapped 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 486 | 1968 511

Ventura AE672

s/n
 AE672
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4015

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “B” crash, on 03 Jul 1943 during a day training flight, when the a/c undershot on landing and was damaged. To No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 19 Jul 1943 for disposal

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-June-16 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1944-May-16 Struck off Strength reduced to spares and produce 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE673

s/n
 AE673
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4016

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Allocated to No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “B” crash at 18:00 hrs on 07 Jul 1943. A student pilot in AE673 was practicing glide approaches and landings, made a heavy landing, damaging the port oleo leg. The a/c. took-off again but the port oleo would neither retract nor lower. After jettisoning fuel, the pilot made a one wheel landing. None of the crew was injured. Allocated to Clarke Ruse Aircraft on 23 Jul 1943 for fly in repairs. This was cancelled, re-allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB. Finally to Clark Ruse Aircraft on 28 Jan 1944 for repairs, following the crash. To RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS for disposal on 3 Apr 1944.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1943-June-24 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2020-10-27
1943-July-07 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Horasymchuk | Yarwood
   1944-November-09 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE674

s/n
 AE674
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4017

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Allocated to No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Suffered a Cat "C" crash on 20 May 1943 at 04:45 hrs. During a night training flight, the pilot applied brakes in first instance gently with no result. He then used both hands on brake handle. The brakes locked suddenly and a/c nosed over thereby bending propeller tips. The a/c then righted itself falling heavily on its tail causing extensive damage to tail unit. On 16 Sep 1943 at 13:00 hrs, during a day training flight the port oleo leg collapsed due a to heavy landing. None of the crew was injured. To RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS for repairs on 20 Oct 1943 following this Cat “B” crash. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft at Moncton, NB on 15 Nov 1943. Back to RCAF Stn Dartmouth on 3 Apr 1944 for disposal, apparently without being repaired.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1943-April-27 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-May-20 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Campbell | Kennard
1943-September-16 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Lindsay | Vanderburgh | White
   1944-November-09 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE676

s/n
 AE676
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4019

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Suffered a Cat “C” accident at 13:00 hrs on 30 Oct 1943. During a day training flight, while taxiing at the completion of a landing run, the tail oleo collapsed due to a technical failure. None of the crew was injured. Suffered a similar accident on 09 Jan 1944 at 14:45 hrs. During a training flight, the tail oleo collapsed shortly after a/c touched down on runway after coming down but not fully locked. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 28 Jun 1944. Stored post war at No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB. Had 375:50 hours airframe time when struck off 2022-01-26
   1943-April-16 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-October-30 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Park | Stephens
1944-January-09 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Dyos | Endacott
   1947-April-23 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE677

s/n
 AE677
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4020

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “A” crash near Pennfield on 10 Jan 1944 at 13:00 hrs. During a training flight both engines cut (one second before the other) when a/c was at 200-300 ft during a normal landing approach. The a/c dropped sharply and pilot failed to correct in time. The a/c "mushed" on to ground. The port engine caught fire and a/c burnt out. The crew of two escaped with slight injuries. The pilot inadvertently raised the flaps at low altitude and stalled the a/c. Post-crash fire damage. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 13 Jan 1944.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1943-August-31 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1944-January-10 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Burrows | Mcneil
   1944-April-04 Struck off Strength reduced to spares and produce 2022-01-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE678

s/n
 AE678
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4021

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 06 Mar 1943 at 11:40 hrs, Cat "C" damage when the a/c hit a tree, during low flying, damaging the starboard fuselage and starboard engine. On 29 May 1943 at 15:45 hrs, during a formation day training fight, AE678 overshot and hit trees on attempting to make a forced landing after experiencing engine trouble, and crashed approximately 9 miles northwest of St. George, N.B. The pilot, Flight Sergeant (RAAF) A.E.E. Rogers, was killed but the WAG, Flight Sergeant (RAAF) L.A. Ellis, escaped with only slight injuries. The a/c was completely destroyed. Remains to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 2 Jun 1943.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-October-08 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-March-06 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: 6 Mile NWest Pennfield Ridge Aerodrome Names: Gardner | Pallett
1943-May-29 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Didgeguash River St George Names: Ellis | Rogers
   1943-August-05 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
1943-May-29 KIFA RAAF Sergeant Albert Ernest Edward Rogers 2022-12-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE680

s/n
 AE680
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4023

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft #AE 680 was on a night flying practise when the aircraft lost height on a right hand turn, struck a tree, and crashed at RAF Station, Feltwell 2022-01-26

Operational 1943-03-02 to 1943-03-02

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF) Feltwell
487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Ventura aircraft #AE 680 was on a night flying practise when the aircraft lost height on a right hand turn, struck a tree, and crashed at RAF Station, Feltwell. One other Canadian, Sgt Carter, was supposed to be on the aircraft but didn't go because he couldn't find his parachute.

1943-March-02 KIFA RCAF Flight Sergeant James William Billing 2022-07-07
1943-March-02 KIFA RCAF Flight Sergeant Joseph Roy McCormick 2022-07-07
1943-March-02 KIFA RCAF Flight Sergeant Bernard James O'Donnell 2022-07-07

Ventura AE688

s/n
 AE688
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4031

Known Squadron Assignments: ;464

Ventura I aircraft #AE 688 was engaged in a night cross-country exercise when it hit a hill one mile north-west of lake Ffynnon Llugwy, Snowdonia, North Wales. 2022-01-26

Operational 1943-08-18 to 1943-08-19

464 () () RAF Sculthorpe, Norfolk
464 Australia Squadron (Aequo Anima). Ventura aircraft AE 688 took off from RAF Sculthorpe on 18 August 1943 to carry out a night flying training exercise during which the aircraft crashed into a hillside in Wales at Llandwrog. The aircraft was considerably off course at the time but the cause of the crash was unknown. Casualties included Flt. Sgt's. E.J.E. Beaudry and A.S. Clegg (RCAF), F/O L. Fullerton (RCAF), and Flt. Sgt. J.A. Johnston (RAAF).

1943-August-19 KIA RCAF Sergeant Elroy Joseph Emile Beaudry 2022-07-31
1943-August-19 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Archibald Sidney Clegg 2024-02-29
1943-August-19 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Lawrence Fullerton 2022-08-25

Ventura AE692

s/n
 AE692
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4035

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft #AE 692 failed to return from a raid against the Marshalling Yards at Abbeville, France 2022-01-26
1943-April-21 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer Frederick James Mackenzie Ashdown 2023-07-28
1943-April-21 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer William Alex Lyttle 2023-09-12
1943-April-21 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Dalton James Kenneth Wallace 2021-07-12

Ventura AE696

s/n
 AE696
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4039

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “A” crash at Pennfield Ridge on 10 Jul 1943. At 2115 hrs, AE696 overshot runway and while attempting to go round again, the a/c dived into the ground from 100 ft. and burst into flames. Both members of the crew, Pilot Officer M.W. Hansen (Pilot) and Pilot Officer H.E. Jasmin (WAG), were killed. The a/c was destroyed. To No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 19 Jul 943 for disposal

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1943-July-07 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1943-August-19 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
1943-July-10 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Milton Whitehead Hansen 2023-06-19
1943-July-10 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Herbert Eloi Jasmin 2023-02-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE701

s/n
 AE701
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4044

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft failed to return from operations, presumed over target, presumed enemy action. 2022-01-26

Combat 1942-12-06 to 1942-12-06

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF) Feltwell
487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Took off 1120 from Feltwell. Shot down by flak crashing 1217 into the sea off Oostkapelle on the Dutch Island of Walcheren. Three crew members, not Canadians, missing believed killed.

1942-December-06 KIA RAFVR Sergeant Sidney James Isaac 2022-07-07
1942-December-06 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Alexander Gordon Paterson 2022-07-07
1942-December-06 KIA RAFVR Sergeant Patrick James Stokes 2022-07-07
1942-December-06 KIA RAFVR Sergeant Edward John Florida Vick 2022-07-07

Ventura AE702

s/n
 AE702
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4045

Known Squadron Assignments: ;464

Ventura aircraft was one of six shot down during an operation against the Phillips Factory at Eindhoven 2022-01-26

Bombing Eindhoven Netherlands 1942-12-06 to 1942-12-06

464 (B) Sqn (RAAF) RAF Feltwell, Norfolk, England

Operation Oyster

464 Australia Squadron (Aequo Animo). Ventura aircraft was one of six shot down during an operation against the Phillips Factory at Eindhoven. Casualties included F/O M.G. Moor (RCAF), F/O N. Cohen (RAF), P/O. S.A. Venneear (RAF), and Sgt. M.L.V. Haas (RAAF).

1942-December-06 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Maurice Gordon Moor 2022-07-31

Ventura AE703

s/n
 AE703
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4046
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal at Scoudouc, NB from May 1946, when it had 489:55 airframe time. 2009-09-11
   1943-October-20 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-October-27 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Anderson | Squance
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE715

s/n
 AE715
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4058

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft #AE 715 was seen to ditch in the sea. A search of the area was carried out without success. 2022-01-26
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Lloyd George Girty 2021-08-07
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Bruce Herbert May 2021-08-16
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer Melvyn Alexander McDonald 2021-08-17
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Robert Clifton Milliken 2021-08-16

Ventura AE726

s/n
 AE726
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4069

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft #AE 726 had the tail shot off by flak in the vicinity of the target an attack against an oil tanker in the Harbour at Brest, France 2022-01-26
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Thomas Coke Dubose 2024-02-03
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Ernest Albert Norman 2024-02-03
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Kenneth Ethen Price 2021-08-12

Ventura AE728

s/n
 AE728
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4071
May have arrived in Canada by 6 June 1942. Was to be returned to the US on 16 July 1942 in exchange for a Ventura Mk. II. Category B crash on 26 August 1942 at No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB, probably still on RAF books at the time. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft from 17 September 1942 to 3 January 1944, for repairs. Transferred to RCAF while there. To stored reserve with EAC when completed. Available for disposal from 28 June 1944. Stored post war at No.4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB. Had 452:00 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
1942-August-26 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Baker | Cook
   1942-October-16 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-April-23 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE729

s/n
 AE729
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4072

Known Squadron Assignments: ;5

Montreal Gazette October 27 1942

Canada Ferry Command Ventura AE729. Crashed shortly after t/o Dorval. Civilians en route to Goose Bay, Labrador to install equipment at new airport.

The aircraft, carrying 16 people which included 2 Civilian crew members, 10 RCAF airmen and 4 Civilian passengers, was enroute to Goose Bay, Labrador. All 16 perished in the accident. Carl Frederick KAISER, the American civilian pilot, was from Roseville, Michigan, and Arthur Harold DOWN, the Canadian civilian radio operator, was from Tillsonburg, Ontario; the four civilian passengers were to spend the next 6 months installing equipment at the new airport in Goose Bay (they were Charles Herbert 'Bert' Coke (Toronto), H. S. Moden (Montreal), John Joseph Barry (Toronto) and Maurice J. Miles (Toronto). The names of the ten RCAF airmen who perished in the crash were:- Leading Aircraftman Keith Dooks CAMPBELL, Leading Aircraftman Douglas Arthur ABBOTT, Leading Aircraftman John Franklin CARR, Corporal Clifford Thoralf CHRISTOPHERSON, Leading Aircraftman Wesley Bruce DANIELSON, Corporal Michael James KASEY, Leading Aircraftman Bernard Edward MALONE, Leading Aircraftman Vincent Ford PEEBLES, Leading Aircraftman Leslie Vernon SPARKES and Leading Aircraftman Phillip John TENNANT. Hugh Halliday

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
1942-October-26 Accident: RAF Ferry COMMAND Loc: Dorval Airport Names: Abbott | Campbell | Carr | Christopherson | Coke | Danielson | Down | John Barry | Kaiser | Kasey | Maclone | Millen | Morris Myles | Peebles | Sparkes | Tennant

Ferry Flight 1942-10-26 to 1942-10-26

5 () Ferry Command (RAF) Dorval, Quebec

RAF Ferry Command, Dorval, Quebec. Ventura aircraft AE 729 had just taken off in poor weather conditions for a flight to Goose Bay, Labrador when it experienced an engine failure, stalled and crashed two miles east of the aerodrome with the loss of all 16 passengers and crew aboard

Crew: American Civilian Pilot Captain CF Kaiser and Canadian Civilian Radio Officer AH Down

Canadian Civilian Passengers: MJ Miles, HS Millen, HC "Bert" Coke and JT Barry were all contractors travelling to Goose Bay to install new equipment for the new airport at Goose Bay, Labrador

Military Passengers: Cpl CT Christopherson (RCAF), Cpl MJ Kasey (RCAF) and eight RCAF Leading Aircraftmen assigned to Goose Bay as radio operators: VF Peebles, LV Sparkes, JF Carr, KD Campbell, PJ Tennant, DA Abbott, BE Malone and WB Danielson

Ocean Bridge, The History of RAF Ferry Command by Carl A Christie pages 257, 314, 394

General [Royal Air Force Serial and Image Database]...

General Aviation Safety Network


1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Douglas Arthur Abbott 2023-01-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RAF Civilian John T Barry 2023-01-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Keith Dooks Campbell 2023-12-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Corporal Clifford Thoralf Christopherson 2024-02-20
1942-October-26 KIFA RAF Civilian Charles Herbert Coke 2024-03-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Wesley Bruce Danielson 2023-01-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RAF Civilian Arthur Harold Down 2023-04-02
1942-October-26 KIFA RAF Civilian Carl Frederick Kaiser 2023-01-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Corporal Michael James Kasey 2023-01-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Bernard Edward Malone 2023-01-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RAF Civilian Maurice John Miles 2023-06-28
1942-October-26 KIFA RAF Civilian Harry Saunderson Millen 2023-06-14
1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Vincent Ford Peebles 2023-01-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Leslie Vernon Sparkes 2023-01-13
1942-October-26 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Phillip John Tennant 2023-01-13

Ventura AE733

s/n
 AE733
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4076

Known Squadron Assignments: ;299

Ventura aircraft #AE 733 crashed in snowy weather near Kingston Warren, Watchfield, Wiltshire, England. 2022-01-26
1943-December-11 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class William Roy Chester 2024-02-12
1943-December-11 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant James McNae Thomson 2022-09-21

Ventura AE734

s/n
 AE734
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4077

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft missing, presumed enemy action, presumed over target. 2022-01-26
1942-November-07 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Victor Roy Henry 2021-08-09

Ventura AE759

s/n
 AE759
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4102

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft missing, presumed enemy action, presumed over target., Watchfield, Wiltshire, England. 1942}}

Canada Ferry Command Ventura AE729. Crashed shortly after t/o Dorval. Civilians en route to Goose Bay, Labrador to install equipment at new airport.

The aircraft, carrying 16 people which included 2 Civilian crew members, 10 RCAF airmen and 4 Civilian passengers, was enroute to Goose Bay, Labrador. All 16 perished in the accident. Carl Frederick KAISER, the American civilian pilot, was from Roseville, Michigan, and Arthur Harold DOWN, the Canadian civilian radio operator, was from Tillsonburg, Ontario; the four civilian passengers were to spend the next 6 months installing equipment at the new airport in Goose Bay (they were Charles Herbert 'Bert' Coke (Toronto), H. S. Moden (Montreal), John Joseph Barry (Toronto) and Maurice J. Miles (Toronto). The names of the ten RCAF airmen who perished in the crash were:- Leading Aircraftman Keith Dooks CAMPBELL, Leading Aircraftman Douglas Arthur ABBOTT, Leading Aircraftman John Franklin CARR, Corporal Clifford Thoralf CHRISTOPHERSON, Leading Aircraftman Wesley Bruce DANIELSON, Corporal Michael James KASEY, Leading Aircraftman Bernard Edward MALONE, Leading Aircraftman Vincent Ford PEEBLES, Leading Aircraftman Leslie Vernon SPARKES and Leading Aircraftman Phillip John TENNANT. Hugh Halliday

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File


1942-December-10 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Garnet Hartford Turcotte 2021-07-14

Ventura AE776

s/n
 AE776
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4119

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft #AE 776 was shot down by enemy fighter aircraft during a trip to Foret, Eperlecques, France. 2022-01-26
1943-September-03 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Harry Kenneth Kells 2024-02-15

Ventura AE780

s/n
 AE780
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4123

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft #AE 780 missing, presumed over target, presumed enemy action. 2022-01-26

Combat Amsterdam Netherlands 1943-05-03 to 1943-05-03

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF) Methwold
487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Ventura aircraft AE 780 was shot down 1750 in the northwest suburbs of Amsterdam. Three of the crew, not Canadians, were missing & believed killed.

1943-May-03 KIA RNZAF Flying Officer Stuart McGowan 2022-07-07
1943-May-03 KIA RNZAF Sergeant Cyril Richard Smith 2022-07-07
1943-May-03 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Ernest Garfield Thornber 2022-07-07
1943-May-03 Evader RNZAF Sergeant Ivan Francis Urlich 2022-07-07

Ventura AE798

s/n
 AE798
m/d
 37‑21‑01

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft #AE 798 went down near Langeoog, Germany, presumed enemy action. 2022-01-26

Combat Amsterdam Netherlands 1943-05-03 to 1943-05-03

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF) Methwold

Ramrod

487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Ventura aircraft was shot down in the North Sea off Noordwijkerhout, Zuid-Holland. Four occupants (2 Canadians) were killed.

1943-May-03 KIA RAFVR Sergeant Albert Edward Downs 2024-01-18
1943-May-03 KIA RAF Sergeant James William Lowe 2022-07-10
1943-May-03 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant James Cunningham Lynass 2022-07-10
1943-May-03 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Harry Wallace Toombs 2022-07-10

Ventura AE806

s/n
 AE806
m/d
 37‑21‑01

Known Squadron Assignments: ;1407

RAF Station Reykjavik, Iceland, 31407 Met Flight, Ventura I aircraft #AE 806 crashed during a meteorological flight 2022-01-26
1944-April-22 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 1st Class Kenney Weeks Norfolk 2023-07-16

Ventura AE833

s/n
 AE833
m/d
 37‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4176

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft #AE 833 was shot up by flak during the trip and returned to land at the aerodrome at Tangmere, England 2022-01-26

Combat 1943-06-12 to 1943-06-12

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF)
487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Ventura aircraft AE 833 was shot up by flak during the trip and returned to land at the aerodrome at Tangmere, England. WO Kirstine was wounded in the attack and died of his wounds in the Royal Sussex Hospital, Chichester, shortly after landing.

1943-June-12 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Lloyd Kirstine 2021-08-12

Ventura AE848

s/n
 AE848
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4191

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft was shot down in the sea off Holland during a trip to Amsterdam 2022-01-26
1942-November-06 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Norman Alexander Gardner 2021-09-21
1942-November-06 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Robert Walter Neill 2021-08-17

Ventura AE849

s/n
 AE849
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4192
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB in 1943. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 April 1944, back to Pennfield Ridge on 20 July 1944. Back to stored reserve 14 September 1944. To No. 1 Training Command on 17 October 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 January 1945. Available for disposal in 1946, at No. 4 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit. Had 819:20 airframe time when struck off. 2011-12-18
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-June-30 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE851

s/n
 AE851
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4194

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash at Pennfield Ridge at 17:15 on 1 Mar 1943. When taxying after a day training flight at Pennfield, the starboard u/c of AE851 collapsed and the a/c was damaged. None of the crew was injured. The accident was caused by the failure of the u/c actuating jack piston assembly and down lock. Suffered another “C” Cat accident on 14 Nov 1943 at 17:15 hrs when a student pilot made a heavy landing after a single-engine approach training flight, causing the starboard oleo leg to break. None of the crew was injured. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal with EAC from 28 Jun 1944. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. Had 851:45 hours of airframe time when struck off. 2022-01-26
   1942-August-26 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-March-01 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Ridge Aerodrome Names: Bolander | Braddock | Taylor | Uru
1943-November-14 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Fletcher | Norton
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE852

s/n
 AE852
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4195

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft #AE 852 was shot down over the North Sea. 2022-01-26
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Joseph Stanley Laidlaw 2022-01-22
1943-April-05 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Gerald Baird McKennie 2021-08-17

Ventura AE860

s/n
 AE860
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4203

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Used for trials of prototype aircraft skis designed and manufactured by Central Aircraft Ltd. Later assigned to No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 16 Jun 1943, at 19:00 hrs, during a training flight, the pilot ran off runway after landing, and the port oleo leg collapsed on the rough ground. None of the crew was injured. Stored at No. 4 Repair Depot, Scoudouc, NB from 26 Jul 1943, following this Cat “B” crash. Planned for scrapping in May 1944, but apparently stored instead, later sold as is. Available for disposal from 31 Jul 1944. Had 326:55 hours of airframe time when struck off. 2022-01-26
   1943-April-27 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-June-16 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Baldwin | Catt | Mcgillivray
   1947-March-07 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE866

s/n
 AE866
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4209
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To Clark Ruse Aircraft on 19 April 1943. Back to EAC by 15 May 1944, when it was listed as available for disposal. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. Had 430:00 total time, 128:00 since overhaul when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1942-August-01 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1943-March-09 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Shell Lake Names: Davies | Hood | Low | Pettitt | Stignant
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE867

s/n
 AE867
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4210

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Suffered a Cat “B” crash on 23 Dec 1943 at 02:55 hrs. During a night training flight the u/c failed to lock and was a/c damaged in the ensuing landing. To No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 7 Jan 1944, after this crash. To No. 21 RD at Moncton on 9 Feb 1944 for further repairs, and complete overhaul.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-August-17 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-December-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Barlow | Lehr | Park | Stewart
   1944-November-20 Struck off Strength Struck off at No. 21 Repair Depot 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 511

Ventura AE868

s/n
 AE868
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4211

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 22 Nov 1942 at 16:50 hrs AE868 crashed on the aerodrome just after take-off on a local day training flight. The circumstances were as follows: the port engine failed shortly after take-off, and on attempting a cross-wind landing on the aerodrome, the a/c cartwheeled onto its back and crashed. All fuel tanks appeared to explode on impact and the a/c was destroyed by the ensuing fire. Both members of the crew, Flight Sergeant (RAF) D. Smith (Pilot) and Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) G. Putt (WAG) were killed. Remains of the a/c to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 24 Nov 1942. Cat “A” write-off.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-November-22 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Putt | Smith
   1943-February-02 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off. 2022-01-26
1942-November-22 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant Gerald St George Putt 2022-12-30
1942-November-22 KIFA RAF Sergeant Desmond Smith 2022-12-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE869

s/n
 AE869
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4212
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Category C crash at RCAF Station Yarmouth, NS in November 1942. Category B crash at Yarmouth at 14:40 on 18 January 1943. To No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 8 April 1943, following this crash. Back to EAC on 16 August 1943. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 28 June 1944. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. Had 811:45 airframe time when struck off.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-August-01 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-November-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Yarmouth Names: Riley | Roberts | Strange | Wickham-jones
1943-January-18 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Rcaf Stnorth Yarmouth Names: Barriball | Priddle | Toohey
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE871

s/n
 AE871
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4214

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 12 Jan 1944 at 23:40 hrs, while taxiing down runway to line up for take-off, pilot was ordered to clear runway by the control tower via radio. Pilot taxied off runway and ran into the wreckage of an engine from a previous crash. The wrecked engine was not marked by lights. Cat “C” damage. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 22 Oct 1945. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB.
2022-01-26
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1944-January-12 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Dyos | Thursfield
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE872

s/n
 AE872
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4215

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash at Dorval, QC on 20 Aug 1942. On takeoff, a gas tank cap was noted missing and gas was streaming out. The pilot throttled back and aborted but the a/c ran off the end of the runway and u/c collapsed. Cat “A” crash at 10:15 hrs on 23 Jan 1943. While on a local flight in formation, AE872 suddenly broke formation and went into a diving turn and crashed into the side of a hill at near Hills Mount, Waweig Bridge, approximately 10 miles east of St. Stephen, NB. The crew, consisting of Pilot Officer B.B. Williams (Pilot), Pilot Officer (RNZAF) P.W. Norris (Nav) and P/O.G.A. McCarthy (WAG) were all killed.

Canada Primary Source RCAF - Accident Investigation File

2023-03-21
   1942-August-01 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-August-19 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Dorval Names: Fraser | Jones | Loubert | Settle
1943-January-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Hills Mountain Waweig Names: McCarthy | Norris | Williams
   1943-May-05 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-26
1943-January-23 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Philip William McCarthy 2023-02-07
1943-January-23 KIFA RNZAF Pilot Officer Geoffrey Alexander Norriss 2022-12-30
1943-January-23 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Bayden Bala Williams 2023-05-03
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE874

s/n
 AE874
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4217

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. The a/c suffered a Cat “B” accident at 11:30 hrs on 22 Feb 1943. The a/c swung off the runway on take-off into stony ground causing the tail oleo leg to break and the fuselage to be damaged. The crew was not injured. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 28 Jun 1944. Stored post war at No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB. Had 412:30 hours of airframe hours when struck off. 2022-01-27
   1943-January-12 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2020-10-27
1943-February-22 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Davis | Downing | Newell | Taylor
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE878

s/n
 AE878
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4221

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 23 Apr 1943, during a day cross country flight only three of four a/c returned to base; the fourth, AE878, crashed while attempting to make a forced landing near Spring Haven, NS, owing to one engine cutting out. The crew consisted of: Flight Sergeant (RAF) J.E. Francheiss (Pilot), Flight Sergeant (RAAF) K.R. Self (Nav) and Flight Sergeant K.G. Calvert (WAG). All were students on No.9 Course and were all killed. To No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB for write off on 30 Apr 1943 following the crash. Cat “A” write-off. 2022-01-27
   1942-August-07 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-April-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Springhaven Nova Scotia Names: Calvert | Franckeiss | Self
   1943-June-01 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
1943-April-23 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Kenneth George Calvert 2023-12-04
1943-April-23 KIFA RAFVR Sergeant John Edward Frankeiss 2022-12-30
1943-April-23 KIFA RAAF Sergeant Keith Robert Self 2022-12-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE879

s/n
 AE879
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4222

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash at Pennfield Ridge at 01:25 on 24 Aug 1942 when the tail wheel retracted after landing. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 28 Jun 1944. Stored post war at No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB. Had 954:45 hours of airframe time when struck off 2022-01-27
   1942-August-07 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-August-24 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Pennfield Ridge Names: Cook | Quirke | Skinner
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE882

s/n
 AE882
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4225
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve with EAC from 22 May to 20 July 1944, then back to Pennfield Ridge. To storage again on 14 September 1944. To No. 1 Training Command on 10 October 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 January 1945. Available for disposal form 2 January 1946. Stored post war at No. 4 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit. Had 929:20 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-March-26 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-June-30 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE886

s/n
 AE886
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4229

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To No. 4 Repair Depot on 1 Apr 1943, following a Cat “B” crash. On 27 Mar 1943, the a/c taxied out to line up for take-off, but the starboard leg of the u/c collapsed. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft for repairs, 17 May to 10 Dec 1943. Back to EAC when completed. To stored reserve with EAC 22 May to 20 Jul 1944, then back to Pennfield Ridge. Stored reserve again on 7 Aug 1945. Stored post war at No. 6 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit. On 2 Apr 1946 reported as having 845:05 airframe hours 2022-01-27
   1942-July-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-March-27 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Rcaf Yarmouth Names: Pascoe | Pelletier | Walker
   1946-November-22 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE887

s/n
 AE887
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4230

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 29 Jul 1943 at 0850 hrs during a training flight, the pilot was unable to lower the u/c, owing to an oleo leg evidently having been damaged due to a heavy landing during previous night flying training. The pilot made a successful "belly" landing and none of the crew was injured. To No. 4 Repair Depot on 5 Aug 1943 for salvage. To RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS on 21 Sep 1943 for removal of engines. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft on 2 Nov 1943. To Dartmouth on 3 Apr 1944 for disposal. 2022-01-27
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-February-25 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Gardiner | Pallet
1943-July-29 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Hardy | Heath
   1944-November-09 Struck off Strength Struck off at RCAF Station Dartmouth 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE889

s/n
 AE889
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4232

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Suffered a Cat "B" crash at 0900 hrs on 25 Mar 1943. AE889 took off on a pre-dawn cross country flight and a low level bombing exercise including an air firing exercise at Yarmouth, NS. The student pilot lost his bearings and eventually forced landed at Old Orchard Beach near Portland, MA. The pilot made a wheels-up landing and the bomb bay and underside of the engines were damaged and the propellers were bent. None of the crew was injured. To No. 4 Repair Depot on 30 Mar 1943, when it had 363:35 airframe hours. Re-allocated to Clarke Ruse Aircraft at Dartmouth, NS for overhaul on 3 Apr 1943. Back to EAC on 2 Aug 1943. To stored reserve with EAC on 20 Jul 1944. Available for disposal from 31 Jul 1944. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. 2022-01-27
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-March-25 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Old Orchard Beach Near Portland Maine Names: Harvey | Page | Scott
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE893

s/n
 AE893
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4236

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash near Pennfield Ridge at 23:50 hrs on 23 Sep 1942 when the starboard u/c oleo bracket / flange broke. Cat “A” crash at Pennfield Ridge aerodrome at 11:50 hrs on 28 Feb 1943. While landing in heavy gusting cross winds at Pennfield, from a local day training flight, AE893 crashed and was written-off. The crew, Pilot Officer F.R. Spafford (Pilot) and Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) G.L. Clotworthy (WAG), were both slightly injured. Assigned to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 6 Mar 1943 for disposal 2022-01-27
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-September-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Atkins | Breakspear | Kierstead
1943-February-28 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Clotworthy | Spafford
   1943-July-06 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE899

s/n
 AE899
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4242

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft #AE 899 crashed in the North Sea, presumed enemy action. 2022-01-27

Bombing Cherbourg France 1943-01-22 to 1943-01-22

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF) Feltwell
487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Ventura aircraft AE 899 crashed in the North Sea, presumed enemy action. Two of the crew, not Canadians, missing believed killed. AE 899 was believed to have been piloted by Flying Officer Perryman, who survived after ditching in the English Channel on the return trip. See: https://www.feltwell.net/raffeltwell/articles/ventura_airmen.htm. RAF Commands does not show his personal record.

Combat Cherbourg France 1943-06-22 to 1943-06-22

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF)
487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Ventura aircraft AE 899 crashed in the North Sea, presumed enemy action. Two of the crew, not Canadians, missing believed killed. AE 899 was believed to have been piloted by Flying Officer Perryman, who survived after ditching in the English Channel on the return trip.

1943-January-22 KIA RAFVR Sergeant Basil Dewdrey Bridge 2023-08-29
1943-January-22 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Kenneth William Johns 2022-07-11
1943-January-22 KIA RAFVR Sergeant Kenneth Joseph Teague 2022-07-11

Ventura AE905

s/n
 AE905
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4248

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash at Pennfield Ridge aerodrome at 19:25 on 24 Sep 1943 when the tail wheel retracted upon landing. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. Had 483:00 airframe hours when struck off. 2022-01-27
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-September-24 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Ridge Names: Eno | Pelletier
   1946-October-08 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE907

s/n
 AE907
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4250

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. The a/c suffered a Cat “D” crash at 02:20 hrs on 31 Dec 1943. During a night training flight, the pilot used the brakes too severely causing the a/c to tip up on its nose at the end of the landing run. Cat “A” crash near Digby, NS on 19 Jan 1944 at 17:35 hrs. The
a/c made two circuits during which time the pilot had observed that the weather was beginning to close in. At 1515 hrs, by which time the a/c had taken off on its third circuit, the Flying Control Officer washed out flying and recalled all a/c that were in the air. The subject a/c, on its third circuit, came out of a cloud patch at 1,000 ft. altitude and the pilot seeing another a/c 2-300 yds ahead and in his path, made a descending turn to the starboard to avoid collision. He recovered from the turn at 200 ft. but stated that he could not see the aerodrome. He climbed to 500 ft following for a short time the same course by directional gyre that he had been flying in the cloud before he made the diving turn to starboard. Then he made a 60° turn to port, flew this course for 5 mins but did not locate the field. He then climbed to 3,000 ft, started circling, came down to 350 ft, but did not get a clear view of the ground and climbed to 6,000 ft where he cleared the clouds. At this time the pilot had the WAG inform base by R/T that they were lost. The WAG had contacted base and received instructions that flares would be fired, that the cloud base was 550 ft and the a/c was to descend to 500 ft. The pilot came down to 500 ft but stated he could not see clearly, did not see base nor any flares and almost immediately climbed again. At this time the a/c lost R/T contact with base. After failing to locate anything the pilot climbed to 1,000 ft where he saw an opening in the clouds on the horizon. He flew towards this break and eventually down through it and force landed. The a/c came to rest on top of a 1½ ton Chevrolet truck on the road boarding the selected field. The pilot, Flight Sergeant G.W. Shapka, was only slightly injured but the WAG, Flight Sergeant (RAAF) P.N.H. Harricks was seriously hurt. The a/c was allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc NB on 24 Jan 1944 for scrapping. 2022-01-27
   1942-July-28 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-December-31 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Dawes | Fogarty
1944-January-19 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Digby Names: Harricks | Shapka
   1944-April-27 Struck off Strength Struck off, reduced to spares and produce 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE911

s/n
 AE911
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4254

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 26 Feb 1043, during a formation cross country training exercise, at 1437 hrs, a W/T message was received from an a/c flying in formation, to the effect that the other a/c with which it was flying had suddenly broken formation and had, it was believed, crashed. Although intensive aerial search was conducted nothing was discovered. AE911, and the crew which consisted of Pilot Officer (RAF) N.C. Harris (Pilot), Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) E. Williams (Nav), Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) D.T. Bates (WAG) and Flight Sergeant T.M. Otto (AG) were declared as “missing” as of 4 Mar 1943. Extensive searches revealed nothing. On 23 Oct 1943, a crashed a/c was eventually found by a hunting party. The crashed a/c turned out to be AE911. The bodies of the four members of the crew were brought back to the station for burial. From the position of the wreckage and bodies, it appeared that the a/c had crashed while out of control, killing the crew instantly 2022-01-27
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-February-26 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Unknown Names: Bates | Harris | Otto | Williams
   1943-May-06 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off. 2022-01-27
1943-February-26 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant Donald Stuart Bates 2023-05-03
1943-February-26 KIFA RAFVR Pilot Officer Norman Clifford Harris 2022-12-30
1943-February-26 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Thomas Marshall Otto 2023-04-02
1943-February-26 KIFA RAAF Sergeant Evan Williams 2022-12-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE912

s/n
 AE912
inst
 A 447
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4255

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 06 Jul 1943 at 12:30 hrs, while taxiing into flight line after exercise, the crew opened the bomb bay doors for re-arming while still taxiing. This probably lowered hydraulic pressure momentarily rendering brakes practically inoperative and the a/c collided
with the port wing of AJ230. AJ230 was damaged at Cat. "B" level and AE912 was damaged Cat. "C" None of the crew was injured. Assigned to No. 4 Repair Depot on 8 Jul 1943, following this damage. Flown to RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS on 21 Sep 1943, for removal of engines before allocation to Clarke Ruse. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft for repairs from 2 Nov 1944 to 1 Feb 1944. To stored reserve with EAC when completed. Classified as Instructional Airframe A.447 on 13 Jul 1945. 2022-01-27
   1942-August-26 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-March-09 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Rcaf Yarmouth Names: Babarfald | Paquette | Yarwood
1943-July-06 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Chatto | Franklin | Messiter
   1945-July-13 Classified Instructional CA A 447 2020-06-11
   1948-April-23 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 488 | 1968 512

Ventura AE922

s/n
 AE922
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4265
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. Had 491:40 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1942-August-26 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE923

s/n
 AE923
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4266

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Category C crash at RAF Station Yarmouth, NS at 19:10 on 26 November 1942 Category A crash at Pennfield Ridge on 18 December 1943. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 10 January 1944 for write off.Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash at RAF Stn Yarmouth, NS at 19:10 on 26 Nov 1942 when the a/c taxied into a ditch after an engine failure. Cat “A” crash at Pennfield Ridge on 19 Dec 1943 at 15:45 hrs. The a/c suffered a forced landing caused by one engine cutting due to pilot having checked fuel contents of the wrong tank and thus running out of fuel on the tank selected. The crew of two were slightly injured. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 10 Jan 1944 for write off 2022-01-27
   1942-July-11 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-November-26 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Yarmouth Names: Ashwell | Burrows | Moultrie | Underwood
1943-December-19 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Bastable | Matthels
   1944-April-04 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE925

s/n
 AE925
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4268

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” accident on 30 Oct 1942 when the a/c was taxied off the runway to avoid a stranded a/c and the u/c dropped into a hole and collapsed. Another Cat “C” at 12:30 hrs on 17 Dec 43 when AE 925 taxied into A/C 637 (unoccupied) while attempting to park in front of the hangar. On 2 Feb 1944, the a/c suffered a Cat “D” taxiing accident due to pilot error. The starboard wingtip was damaged by contact with a telegraph pole. On 19 Mar 1944 at 16:30 hrs, during a training mission, the a/c nose-dived into the trees on a hardwood ridge in the vicinity of Keswick, NB and travelled approximately 200 yards before it came to rest. The plane was then completely demolished having caught fire when it crashed. Three of the crew were killed as follows: Pilot Officer F.W. Thompson (Nav), Flight Sergeant G.R. Somers (WAG) and the AG, Flight Sergeant R.E. Cormier. The student pilot, Pilot Officer E.S. Hicks was seriously injured. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot on 22 Mar 1944 for write off, following this Cat “A” crash. 2022-01-27
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-October-30 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Ridge Aerodrome Names: Byron | Fletcher | Mark
1943-December-17 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Henning | Matthews | Peterkin | Swartz
1944-March-19 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Fredericton Names: Cormier | Hicks | Somers | Thompson
   1944-April-25 Struck off Strength Struck off, reduced to spares and produce 2019-08-20
1944-March-19 KIFA RCAF Sergeant George Robert Somers 2023-03-02
1944-March-19 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Frank William Thompson 2023-02-01
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE926

s/n
 AE926
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4269
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Still with this unit when it suffered a Category B crash at RAF Yarmouth, NS at 17:00 on 16 January 1943. Starboard oleo strut collapsed on touch down on icy runway in poor visibility. Accident report found undercarriage to be defective. 8 people onboard at time of crash. To No. 4 Repair Depot for salvage on 8 April 1943, re-allocated for repairs after further inspection. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft at Dartmouth, NS from 17 May (or June?) to 2 August 1943 for crash repairs. Back to No. 34 OTU when completed. Back to No. 4 RD on 11 February 1944, for fly in repairs. Available for disposal from 31 July 1944. Still at Scoudouc in April 1946. 2010-06-22
   1942-August-07 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-January-16 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Rcaf Stnorth Yarmouth Names: Burley | Burnham | Edmond | Henderson | Hogan | Lawrence | Moore | Randall
1944-January-01 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Burn | Burrows | Coles | Mayer
1944-February-02 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Knickerbooker | Manning | Watson
   1947-June-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE928

s/n
 AE928
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4271

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 25 Nov 1944 at 14:00 hrs, a student pilot landed from a local day training flight with the "wheels up". The a/c was damaged but none of the crew was injured. To No. 4 Repair Depot on 8 Dec 1943, then to Clarke Ruse Aircraft from 8 Jan to 25 Apr 1944 for repairs following this Cat “B” crash. Back to EAC when completed. Available for disposal from 19 Jul 1944. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB and Stanley, NS. Had 1008:50 airframe hours when struck off. 2022-01-28
   1943-August-06 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-November-25 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Garvie | Simpson
   1947-April-23 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE929

s/n
 AE929
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4272

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Suffered Cat “B” accident on 22 Feb 1944. During a day training flight, due to pilot error, the a/c ran out of fuel and had to be force landed. Assigned to No. 4 Repair Depot from 6 Mar 1944 for temporary repairs, to permit ferry to No. 4 RD for storage, pending allocation to contractor. Apparently not repaired but struck off and later sold to Lee Mansdorf Co, in Sun Valley, CA in 1946 and registered as NL63134. Later re-registered as N63134 in 1948 but no further records.. 2022-01-27
   1942-July-11 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1944-February-22 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Ridge Names: Cline | Seaniger
   1944-May-16 Struck off Strength Struck off and later sold 2022-01-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE930

s/n
 AE930
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4273

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 25 Aug 1943, at 22:00 hrs, a student pilot was taxiing AE930 when the starboard oleo leg collapsed through a technical defect. None of the crew was injured. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 22 Oct 1945. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. 2022-01-27
   1942-August-05 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-August-25 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Haddock | Hilsden | Mckellar | Shanks
   1947-November-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE931

s/n
 AE931
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4274
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 22 October 1945. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. 2009-09-11
   1942-August-05 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE932

s/n
 AE932
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4275

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Assigned to No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Suffered a Cat “A” crash. On 20 Nov 1942 P/O. Male, the pilot, had been detailed to fly AE932 to Dartmouth and collect certain freight. P/O. S.E Sutherland was the wireless operator and Acting Flight Sergeant .F. Flight, an engine mechanic, was one of three passengers also made the trip to Dartmouth. The a/c arrived at Dartmouth at 1640 hrs. Two of the passengers remained there and at 1740 hrs the a/c took off on its return journey. The fatal flight was en route from Dartmouth Nova Scotia to RCAF Station Yarmouth when it crashed 4 miles north-east of Caledonia, Queens Co, NS at 2130 hrs. The plane was carrying hydraulic oil from Dartmouth to Yarmouth. At the time of take-off there was a ceiling of 500 ft with a visibility of 3 to 4 miles and moderated rain. At the time of crash, there was drizzle rain and low clouds and a visibility of 4 to 5 miles. Messages had been received from the a/c at 1803 hrs. and 1823 hrs. The last message was to the effect that the pilot had nothing to communicate. No difficulty whatsoever was had in exchanging signals with the a/c. At 1828 hrs. the signals officer at base called the aircraft to tell the pilot he had a message for him, there was no reply. At 1830 hrs. the signals officer asked pilot for his estimated time of arrival and received no acknowledgement, and calls were continued until 1940 hrs., but with no reply. Then word came that the a/c had crashed. Residents of the districts of Westfield and Caledonia in Queens County, NS heard the aircraft at about 1820 hrs. as it flew in a south-westerly direction. About 3 minutes later the aircraft was heard circling from the south east to north-east; then at about 1825 hrs. the sound of the engines ceased and within a minute there was a large flash of light followed by a loud explosion. The a/c was totally destroyed and the occupants were killed instantaneously. An examination of the wreckage by the BOI disclosed that the a/c was in a steep left hand turn and losing height, when it struck the top of the trees. That the a/c was approaching the ground at an angle of 45°. circling at a low altitude in conditions of poor visibility the a/c struck trees with the port wing tip and crashed. There were no indications of structural failures in flight. The investigation. further stated: "The aircraft was so badly wrecked and scattered that it was impossible to make any observations on the instruments, flying controls, engine controls or fuel tanks. Male, Sutherland and Flight were all killed in the crash. The wreckage was salvaged by No. 4 Repair Depot for scrapping on 24 Nov 1942. 2022-01-28
   1942-August-12 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-November-20 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Caledonia Nova Scotia Names: Male | Sergeant | Sutherland
   1943-February-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, reduced to spares and produce 2019-08-20
1942-November-20 KIFA RAFVR Pilot Officer Harold Otho Male 2022-12-31
1942-November-20 KIFA RAF Aircraftman 1st Class Thomas Frederick Sargeant 2022-12-30
1942-November-20 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Stanley Evan Sutherland 2023-04-17
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE934

s/n
 AE934
inst
 A 577
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4277

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To No. 4 Repair Depot on 2 Nov 1942, following a Cat “B” crash on 27 Oct 1942. The a/c swung off the runway during a take-off into the wind and taxied at high speed into an embankment. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft for repairs from 5 Nov 1942 to 22 Mar 1944. Back to EAC without being repaired, to stored reserve on 20 Jul 1944. Classified as Instructional Airframe A.577 on 29 Dec 1944, to No. 1 Training Command on same day. Used as a training aid at RCAF Stn Clinton, possibly at No. 5 Radio Direction Finding School. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 Jan 1945. Available for disposal at Clinton on 3 Apr 1946, when it had just 154:30 airframe hours. 2022-01-27
   1942-August-12 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-October-27 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Yarmouth Names: Cornfoot | Curne | Houghton | Mackinnon | Tobin
   1944-December-29 Classified Instructional CA A 577 2022-01-27
   1948-January-02 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 490 | 1968 512

Ventura AE936

s/n
 AE936
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4279

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Suffered a Cat “B” accident on 01 Sep 1942 when the port u/c collapsed at the turn-off at the end of the landing run. Cat “A” crash at 20:40 hrs on 6 Dec 1942, 3 miles south of Presque Isle, Maine aerodrome. The starboard engine had failed while flying through snow and clouds, probably due to icing of the carburetor or blocking of the carburetor air intake screen. The a/c flew on port engine to Presque Isle where difficulty was experienced in getting permission to land resulting in the pilot forgetting that the carburetor heat was on full, and the gills were closed, causing the engine to overheat and catch fire. On the landing approach the pilot misjudged and overshot the runway and upon attempting to go around again was unable to maintain height due to failure of the port engine, which was caused by fire and over heating. The pilot made a smooth wheels up landing 2 to 3 miles from the aerodrome. The crew all escaped safely but the a/c was totally destroyed by the ensuing fire. 2022-01-27
   1942-August-26 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-September-01 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Bloom | Blundell | Dubose | Norman | Price
1942-December-06 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Presque Isle Aerodrome Names: Good | Kozoriz | Simpson | Suttie
   1943-February-02 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE942

s/n
 AE942
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4285

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash at Pennfield Ridge aerodrome, when the a/c tipped on its nose when brakes were applied upon landing on 26 Jul 1942. On 03 Jun 1943, the a/ c was reported as “missing” as of 19:50 hrs (50 mins overdue). During a formation day training flight AE942, with Pilot Officer (RNZAF) S.N. Langdale (Pilot), Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) F.R. Carter (Nav), Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) R.F. rier (WAG) and Flight Sergeant F.J. Stiles (AG), failed to return. It was last seen 30 to 40 miles from the station over the Bay of Fundy, flying southwest at 500 ft. above cloud at 5 - 7,000 ft. extensive air and marine searches failed to locate any sign of the a/c. Later assigned to No. 4 Repair Depot for write-off on 16 Jun 1943 2022-01-27
1942-July-26 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Baker | Kirstine | Reader
   1942-July-28 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-June-03 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Names: Brier | Carter | Langdale | Stiles
   1943-August-06 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-27
1943-June-03 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant Roland Frank Brier 2022-12-30
1943-June-03 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant Francis Robert Carter 2024-01-11
1943-June-03 KIFA RNZAF Pilot Officer Selwyn Noel Langdale 2022-12-30
1943-June-03 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Frederick John Stiles 2023-02-16
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE943

s/n
 AE943
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4286

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Coded “U2” On 18 Mar 1943 at 1440 hrs, on taking off on a local day training flight at Pennfield, AE943, with a student pilot at the controls swung off the runway in a cross wind and crashed into tree stumps on rough ground off the runway, and the a/c was extensively damaged. None of the crew was injured. The accident was due to the inexperience of the pilot and the presence of snow slush and ice at the intersection of the runways. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB for salvage on 19 Mar 1943, following this Cat “A” crash 2022-01-27
   1942-August-12 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-March-18 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Ridge Names: Mowatt | Palmer | Sellars
   1943-July-06 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE944

s/n
 AE944
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4287

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat B crash at RCAF Stn Yarmouth, NS at 19:50 on 18 Jan 1943. On landing at Yarmouth NS, from a training flight, AE944 overshot the runway and ran into a snow bank causing the starboard u/c to collapse. None of the crew was injured. The accident was attributed to the pilot error. To No. 4 Repair Depot on 8 Apr 1943 for repairs. Diverted to Clarke Ruse Aircraft on 17 May 1943. To stored reserve with EAC on 6 Mar 1944. To No. 1 Training Command on 25 Oct 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 Jan 1945. Available for disposal at No. 4 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit on 2 Jan 1946, when it had 448:50 hours of airframe time. 2022-01-27
   1942-August-12 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-January-18 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Rcaf Stnorth Yarmouth Names: Evans | Martineau | Murray | Painting | Solheim
   1947-June-30 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE945

s/n
 AE945
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4288

Known Squadron Assignments: ;464

Bombing the Phillips factory Eindhoven 1942-12-06 to 1942-12-06

464 (B) Sqn (RAAF) RAF Feltwell, Norfolk, England

Operation Oyster

464 Australia Squadron (Aequo Anima). Ventura AE 945 was performing a bombing mission under Operation Oyster, a pin-point daylight raid on the Philips electrical works at Eindhoven in the Netherlands. The aircraft was hit by flak and crashed at 12:39. Casualties included F/t. Sgt. B.M. Harvey (RCAF), W/O B. Marrows and Sgt. J.B.A. MacPherson of the RAF, and Sgt. F. Proctor (RAAF).

1942-December-06 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Beverly Morton Harvey 2022-07-31

Ventura AE946

s/n
 AE946
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4289

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 22 Nov 43, during a day training flight and after diverting to an alternate airport (Blissville, NB) due to weather, the a/c swung on landing. To No. 17 Aircraft Inspection Division at Moncton, NB on 11 Jan 1944, following this crash. Probably intended for repairs at Clarke Ruse Aircraft, Moncton. To RCAF Stn Dartmouth for salvage on 3 Apr 1944, then allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 27 Nov 1944, following the crash. 2022-01-27
   1942-August-26 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-November-20 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Blissville New Brunswick Names: Hutton | Lindsay | Ross | Wyjad
   1944-December-09 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off. 2022-01-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE950

s/n
 AE950
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4293

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Crashed near Pennfield Ridge on 23 Jul 1942. Sgt. H.J. Austin, the pilot, with a WAG, Flight Sergeant J.S. Yurkowski, as crew, took off at 1850 hrs to practice singleengine flying, feathering of propellors, and the use of flaps. The exercise was to be carried out about 5,000 feet above the aerodrome, and this was Sgt. Austin’s first solo attempt at these exercises. The duration of the flight was to be 2 hours. The a/c had enough fuel for about 3 hrs flying but failed to return to base. The a/c was presumed to have crashed off Grand Manan Island in 50 fathoms of water. No wreckage was found. C 2022-01-27
1942-July-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Names: Austin | Yurkowski
   1942-August-26 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1942-October-16 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-27
1942-July-23 KIFA RAFVR Sergeant Harvey John Austin 2023-02-08
1942-July-23 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Joseph Stanley Yurkowski 2023-02-16
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE952

s/n
 AE952
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4295

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. On 25 Jul 1943 at 18:20 hrs the a/c suffered a Cat “B” crash. During a training flight, the pilot bounced the a/c heavily while carrying out glide landings and broke the starboard u/c oleo leg and went around again. Owing to the broken u/c, the pilot had to belly land the a/c.Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot on 2 Aug 1943, following this crash. Allocated to RCAF Stn Dartmouth, NS on 21 Sep 1943, for removal of engines. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft for repairs from 2 Nov 1943 to 25 May 1944. To stored reserve with EAC when completed. To No. 1 Training Command on 25 Oct 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 Jan 1945. To No. 6 Repair Depot on 7 Sep 1945 for repairs. Available for disposal at Trenton from 13 Nov 1945, when it had 1084:55 airframe hours.
2022-01-27
   1942-August-05 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-July-25 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Curtis | Eagleson
1945-August-28 Accident: 1 CFS Loc: Aerodrome Names: Cooke | Dyck
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE953

s/n
 AE953
inst
 A 578
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4296

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “B” crash at RCAF Stn Yarmouth, NS at 06:10 hrs on 30 Jan 1943. On a night cross-country training flight, the a/c swung to the left on take-off leaving the runway and while traveling over uneven ground collapsed the u/c. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot
on 8 Apr 1943, for inspection. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft at Dartmouth, NS on 17 May 1943 for repairs. Back to EAC on 1 Apr 1944. To stored reserve with EAC on 20 Jul 1944. Classified as instructional airframe A.578 and assigned to No. 1 Training Command on 29 Dec 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 Jan 1945. Used at RCAF Stn Clinton, Ontario, possibly at No. 5 Radio Direction Finding School. Available for disposal at Clinton on 3 Apr 1946. Had 155:00 airframe hours when struck off. 2022-01-27
   1942-June-30 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-January-30 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Yarmouth Aerodrome Names: Bristow | McLeod | Titus
   1948-January-02 Classified Instructional CA A 578 2020-06-11
   1954-April-27 Struck off Strength Struck off, to Crown Assets Disposal Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 490 | 1968 512

Ventura AE954

s/n
 AE954
m/d
 V‑146/137‑21‑01
c/n
 37‑4297

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Suffered a Cat “D” accident on 05 Mar 1944 at 01:30 hrs. On landing from a night training flight, the a/c swung off the runway after the port engine cut out just prior to landing. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Available for disposal from 22 Oct 1945. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. Had 623:15 airframe hours when struck off 2022-01-28
   1942-August-26 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1944-March-05 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Baulk | Lemessurier | Parkinson | Porter
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AE957

s/n
 AE957
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4300

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft #AE 957 was engaged in a daylight raid when it was shot down by an enemy fighter aircraft. The Ventura caught fire and crashed in the North Sea and the crew were unable to bail out. 2022-01-28

Combat Rotterdam Netherlands 1943-04-04 to 1943-04-04

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF) Methwold, Norfolk
Ventura aircraft #AE 957 was engaged in a daylight raid when it was shot down by an enemy fighter aircraft. The Ventura caught fire and crashed in the North Sea and the crew were unable to bail out.

1943-April-04 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Stafford Thomas O'Connor 2022-07-10
1943-April-04 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Robert Steedman 2022-07-10
1943-April-04 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Sylvan Ellwood Weaver 2022-07-10
1943-April-04 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant John Andrew Williamson 2022-07-10

Ventura AJ164

s/n
 AJ164
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4302

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 30 Oct 1943, following a Cat “B” crash. On 23 Oct 1943 at 15:10 hrs, during a training flight the student pilot landed the a/c with u/c retracted. There were no technical failures and no injuries. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft at Dartmouth, NS for repairs on 30 Nov 1943. To EAC on 10 Apr 1944. To stored reserve with EAC on 20 Jul 1944. To No. 1 Training Command on 25 Oct 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 Jan 1945. Available for disposal at No. 4 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit on 2 Jan 1946, with 912:15 airframe hours 2022-01-28
   1943-August-06 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-October-23 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Cable | Squance
   1947-June-30 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AJ169

s/n
 AJ169
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4307

Known Squadron Assignments: ;464

Ventura aircraft #AJ 169 failed to return from operations 2022-01-28

Ferry Flight 1943-04-04 to 1943-04-04

464 (B) Sqn (RAAF) RAF Methwold, Norfolk, England
464 Australia Squadron (Aequo Animo). Ventura aircraft AJ 169 was on a mission to bomb the docks at Rotterdam, Holland. There was considerable opposition over the target area with heavy and accurate flak and several aircraft were damaged. AJ169 was hit over the target area but continued in formation until about 40 miles from the Dutch coast when it lagged behind, lost height and eventually ditched and was believed finished off by enemy fighters in the vicinity. A search sent out later in the day was unsuccessful. Casualties included W/O2 E.W. Cole (RCAF), W/O W.W. Collens (RAAF), Flt. Sgt. D.F. Fulford (RAAF), and Flt. Sgt. A.L. Lush (RAF).

1943-April-04 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Eric Walter Cole 2024-03-14

Ventura AJ171

s/n
 AJ171
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4309

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft #AJ 171 crashed at Kings Forest Lodge, near St Edmunds, England. 2022-01-28

Operational 1943-01-20 to 1943-01-20

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF) Feltwell
487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Ventura aircraft AJ 171 was participating in low-level training exercises. Sgt Gerald John Abrey approached the Kings Forest Lodge, near West Stow, Suffolk, in Ventura II AJ171 EG-D. The aircraft caught the top of some trees on slightly rising ground and crashed near the gateway of the Kings Forest Lodge, near West Stow, Suffolk. Abrey and his wireless operator, Flg Off. Frederick Drake RCAF, a 25-year-old Canadian from London, Ontario, were both killed. Sgt Howard Aldridge RCAF (from Toronto, Ontario), the navigator, was thrown clear and escaped with severe injuries.

1943-January-20 KIFA RAFVR Sergeant Gerald John Abrey 2023-07-14
1943-January-20 Accident RCAF Sergeant Howard Aldridge 2022-07-10
1943-January-20 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer Frederick Douglas Drake 2022-07-10

Ventura AJ173

s/n
 AJ173
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4311

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “C” crash at Pennfield Ridge on 1 Oct 1943.Reported missing on 13 Mar 1943. During a medium and low-level bombing exercise carried out at Yarmouth. AJ173 failed to return to base. The crew consisted of: Pilot Officer (RAF) T.A. Corr (Pilot), Pilot Officer F.H Lalor (Nav), F/Sgt. D.A. Cannon (WAG) and a passenger, Able Seaman R.H. Faulkner. The ensuing searches only discovered some partial wreckage, consisting of 2 wheels and a punctured dinghy approximately 2 miles west of Port Maitland, in the Bay of Fundy. 2022-01-28
   1942-July-11 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-October-01 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pennfield Ridge Names: Deakin | Leshko | Murphy
1943-March-13 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Pubnico Nova Scotia Names: Cannon | Corr | Falkner | Lalor
   1943-June-02 Struck off Strength Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-28
1943-March-13 KIFA RCAF Flight Sergeant David Armstrong Cannon 2023-12-18
1943-March-13 KIFA RAFVR Pilot Officer Thomas Anthony Corr 2024-04-30
1943-March-13 KIFA RCN Ordinary Seaman Ronald Herbert Faulkner 2022-12-30
1943-March-13 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Fintan Howard Lalor 2023-02-12
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AJ186

s/n
 AJ186
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4324

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “A” crash near Sommerville, NS on 25 Jun 1943. During a cross-country, low-flying (250 ft) exercise, the a/c was seen flying starboard wing low in an attitude which suggested that the starboard engine had cut out. At this point it was also observed at Summerville near Falmouth, NS to strike a tree, catch fire, crash and then somersault becoming a total wreck. The crew consisting of: Pilot Officer (RNZAF) G.W. Cowie (Pilot), Pilot Officer (RNZAF) C.A. Griffiths (Nav), Flight Sergeant (RAAF) C.A. Mulcahy (WAG) and Pilot Officer J.C. Loucks (AG), were all killed. The a/c was allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 29 Jun 1943 for write off. 2022-01-28
   1942-July-10 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1943-August-09 Struck off Strength Struck off, reduced to spares and produce 2019-08-20
1943-June-25 KIFA RNZAF Pilot Officer George Wellington Cowie 2024-05-07
1943-June-25 KIFA RNZAF Pilot Officer Clifford Avery Griffiths 2022-12-30
1943-June-25 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer John Clark Loucks 2023-02-09
1943-June-25 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant Arthur Cornelius Mulcahy 2022-12-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AJ194

s/n
 AJ194
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4332

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “B” crash at Pennfield Ridge on 9 Sep 1942 when the u/c collapsed at the end of a landing run following a previous heavy landing attempt. To stored reserve EAC on 14 Sep 1944. To No. 1 Transport Command on 17 oct 1944. To 6 RD Trenton, ON with 780:40 airframe hours. Sold post-war for scrap to “Ventress” farm near Brighton, ON.
2022-01-28
   1942-July-10 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1946-May-03 Struck off Strength to War Assets for sale and later sold. 2022-01-28
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AJ196

s/n
 AJ196
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4334

Known Squadron Assignments: ;487

Ventura aircraft missing over enemy-held territory, 2022-01-28

Bombing Eindhoven Netherlands 1942-12-06 to 1942-12-06

487 (B) Sqn (RNZAF) Feltwell

Operation Oyster

487 New Zealand Squadron (Ki Te Mutunga). Ventura aircraft AJ 196 was part of "Operation Oyster", a pin-point daylight raid on the Philips electrical works at Eindhoven, Netherlands. Aircraft was hit by flak and crashed over enemy-held territory. F/O J.A. Withers was also killed. Two of the crew, not Canadians, missing believed killed.

1942-December-06 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Francis Edward King 2022-07-01
1942-December-06 KIA RAFVR Sergeant Thomas Montague Richings 2022-07-01
1942-December-06 KIA RAF Wing Commander Francis Cecil Seavill 2022-07-01
1942-December-06 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Joseph Allan William Withers 2022-07-01

Ventura AJ211

s/n
 AJ211
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4349

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. The a/c suffered a Cat “C” accident at Yarmouth, NS at 16:15 hrs on 29 Nov 1942. The a/c swung to right on take-off and ripped off starboard u/c tire and damaged starboard propeller. Cat “A” crash near Richibucto, NB on 08 Feb 1943. During a cross country exercise, AJ211, crashed approximately 4 miles from Richibucto, NB and exploded on impact. All the crew were killed. The crew were members of No.6 Course and consisted of: Flight Sergeant (RAAF) H.J. Burnham, Flight Sergeant (RAAF) P.L. Edmund and Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) J.E. Hogan J.E. The precise cause of the accident was undetermined. 2022-01-28
   1942-July-16 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1942-November-29 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Yarmouth Aerodrome Names: Churchill | Darling | Mathews | Yule
1943-February-08 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Richibucto New Brunswick Names: Burnham | Edmond | Hogan
   1943-April-06 Struck off Strength - Cat “A” write-off 2022-01-28
1943-February-08 KIFA RAAF Sergeant Hubert John Burnham 2022-12-30
1943-February-08 KIFA RAAF Sergeant Philip Llewellyn Edmond 2022-12-31
1943-February-08 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant John Edward Hogan 2022-12-30
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AJ230

s/n
 AJ230
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4368

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Cat “B” crash there on 6 Jul 1943. While taxiing into flight line after exercise, the pilot of Ventura AE912 opened the bomb bay doors for re-arming while still taxiing. This probably lowered hydraulic pressure momentarily rendering brakes practically inoperative and the a/c collided with the port wing of AJ230. AJ230 was damaged Cat. "B" and Ventura II, AE912 was damaged Cat. "C". None of the crew were injured. The airframe had another Cat “B” crash on 30 Jul 1943 at 00:15 hrs. During a training flight the pilot misjudged the height of the a/c above the ground during a night landing and hit runway heavily with the starboard oleo leg, causing the tire to burst and the oleo leg to collapse. Transferred to 4 RD. Repaired and returned 17 Mar 1944. To stored reserve on 10 Jul 1944. 2022-01-28
   1942-July-10 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-July-06 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Chatto | Franklin | Messiter
1943-July-30 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Henderson | Ownsworth
   1946-June-02 Struck off Strength to War Assets for sale and later sold. 2022-01-28
1944-September-26 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer Harvey Edwin Storey 2023-06-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AJ247

s/n
 AJ247
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4385
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Category B crash at Yarmouth, NS on 21 February 1943. To RCAF Station Rockcliffe, Ontario for special tests July 1943 to October 1944. Sold for $100 by War Assets Corporation, to W. E. Colpitts, Moncton, NB, 20 October 1947. To Hunter C. Moody/Decatur Aviation Co, Decatur, IL, December 1948, registered as NL5770N. To Frederick B. Ayer/Trade-Ayer Co, Linden, NJ, 21 April 1951, still as N5770N. To Arthur O. Meurer Company Inc, New York, NY on 11 June 1951. To Fairbanks Morse & Co, Chicago, IL 13 June 1951, registered as N18M. Converted to executive configuration by AiResearch Aviation, Los Angeles, CA, completed June 1952. Flew as The Colonel. To W. B. Willis, San Antonio, TX 9 February 1959, registered as N92U. To Howard Aero Inc, San Antonio, TX, October 1959. Converted to Super Ventura, completed 15 April 1960. Later modified to Howard 350 configuration. To Jim Walter Corp, Tampa, FL, 14 April 1960, registered as N200JW. Registered as N208JW, 7 September 1967. To Florida Tile Industries Inc, Lakeland, FL 15 April 1968, registered as N570FT. To Hydros Inc, St Petersburg, FL 8 November 1969. To Friedkin Enterprises Inc, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 5 October 1970. To Combs Aircraft Inc, Denver, CO 11 February 1971. To Marine Investment Inc, Mobile, AL 16 June 1971. To Rotor-Aire Inc/Helicopter Enterprises Inc, West Memphis, TN 21 July 1975. To Sea-Air Corp, Powder Springs, GA, October 1975. To Equipment Specialists Inc, Jacksonville, FL 9 February 1977. Crashed and destroyed, Tenerife-Magdalena, Colombia 13 April 1977. 2009-09-11
   1943-January-18 Taken on Strength (18 January?) at Eastern Air Command 2020-10-27
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AJ270

s/n
 AJ270
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4408

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Used by No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve at Scoudouc, NB 22 May 1944 pending disposal at Scoudouc as of 22 Oct 1945. 2022-01-28
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2020-10-27
1944-February-17 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Blight | Flynn | Rechter
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength to War Assets for disposal and later sold. 2022-01-28
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 512

Ventura AJ302

s/n
 AJ302
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Delivered to stored reserve with EAC. Pending disposal at Scoudouc, NB by Oct 1945. Had 856:30 airframe hours when struck off. Sold and US registered as N5769N. Reregistered as N1205. Sold to Union Carbide & Carbon Corp, New York, NY in 1954 and registered N38N. To Williamson Dickie Manufacturing Co, Ft Worth, TX as N38T from 1956-1963. Sold to W. C. Fain / Longhorn Airmotive Inc, in Dallas, TX from 1964-66. struck-off register on 22 Dec 1966. 2022-01-28
   1944-January-15 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ335

s/n
 AJ335
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve with EAC on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945. Stored post war at Scoudouc, NB. Had 456:40 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ358

s/n
 AJ358
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was in storage at Scoudouc, NB. Had 302:10 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ373

s/n
 AJ373
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was in storage at Scoudouc, NB. Had 331:30 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ375

s/n
 AJ375
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was in storage at Scoudouc, NB. Had 440:45 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ383

s/n
 AJ383
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 28 October 1944 for scrapping. 2009-09-11
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1944-December-01 Struck off Strength Struck off, reduced to spares and produce 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ388

s/n
 AJ388
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Delivered to stored reserve. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To No. 1 Air Command on 14 February 1945, in storage. Pending disposal at No. 6 Repair Depot at RCAF Station Trenton, Ontario from 3 April 1946, when it had 425:55 airframe time. 2009-09-11
   1944-January-04 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1945-August-28 Accident: 1 CFS Loc: Aerodrome Names: Cooke | Dyck
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ389

s/n
 AJ389
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve on 4 January 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was in storage at Scoudouc, NB. Had 355:35 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ402

s/n
 AJ402
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Delivered to stored reserve. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was in storage at Scoudouc, NB. Had 294:25 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-December-27 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2020-10-27
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ404

s/n
 AJ404
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Delivered to stored reserve. Issued to No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB on 21 February 1944. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal at Scoudouc, NB from 22 October 1945. 2009-09-11
   1944-January-15 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ407

s/n
 AJ407
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve on 4 January 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 14 February 1945, still in storage. Out of storage 16 April 1945. Pending disposal from 3 April 1946, when it was in storage at No. 6 Repair Depot at RCAF Station Trenton, Ontario, and had 522:00 airframe time. 2009-09-11
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ409

s/n
 AJ409
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was in storage at Scoudouc, NB. 2009-09-11
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ429

s/n
 AJ429
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. Used by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To stored reserve on 4 January 1944. Back to No. 34 OTU on 21 February 1944, then back to storage on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 28 June 1944. Stored at No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB by 1 April 1946. Had 269:00 airframe time when struck off. 2009-09-11
   1943-October-28 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for sale 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ430

s/n
 AJ430
m/d
 137‑27‑01
Lend Lease aircraft used by RAF in North America, delivered second hand to RCAF. To Central Aircraft at Crumlin, Ontario on 20 December 1943, for installation of skis. Operated by Test & Development Establishment at RCAF Station Rockcliffe, Ontario from 22 March 1944. Used for ski trials. To stored reserve with No. 1 Training Command on 11 December 1944. To No. 1 Air Command, still in storage, on 15 January 1945. To No. 6 Repair Depot at Trenton for overhaul, 21 March to 12 July 1945. To stored reserve with No. 1 Air Command when completed. Stored by No. 6 Repair Depot by 20 December 1945. Pending disposal from 5 April 1946. 2009-09-11
   1943-December-01 Taken on Strength No. 3 Training Command 2019-08-20
1944-March-12 Accident: T & D ESTABLISHMENT ROCKLIFFE, ONT Loc: Aerodrome Names: Finlayson | Harkness | Sirois
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura AJ444

s/n
 AJ444
m/d
 137‑27‑01
c/n
 37‑4582

Known Squadron Assignments: ;21

Ventura aircraft #AJ 444 was taking evasive action when it was in a mid-air collision with Ventura aircraft #AE 686. 2022-01-28
1943-May-28 KIA RCAF Flying Officer David Pratt 2021-08-12

Ventura AJ448

s/n
 AJ448
m/d
 137‑27‑01

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Cat “B” damage in a ground taxiing incident on 26 Oct 1943. While parked AJ 448 was run into by another a/c (AE 703) taxying past during a night training flight. The a/c was damaged but none of the crew was injured. To Clark Ruse Aircraft in Dartmouth, NS on 4 Nov 1943 for repairs. Repairs not completed, scrapped instead. 2022-01-28
   1943-January-21 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-October-27 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Anderson | Squance
   1944-February-01 Struck off Strength Struck off, reduced to spares and produce 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 513

Ventura FD572

s/n
 FD572
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4680

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number may have been 41-38024 (not confirmed). With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 4 January 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was in storage at Scoudouc, NB. Noted with 313:45 logged time, never overhauled, while in storage. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD574

s/n
 FD574
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4681
Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38026. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To No. 4 Repair Depot on 22 March 1944, for write off after a Category B crash. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1944-March-16 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Dewan | Kingsborough | Mckenna | Warner
   1944-May-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, reduced to spares and produce 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD621

s/n
 FD621
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38073. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at Scoudouc, NB. 2015-04-24
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD637

s/n
 FD637
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑475

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38089. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time.Suffered Cat C crash 17 Dec 1943. Groundlooped after landing 8th March 1944 Cat D. To storage on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at Scoudouc, NB. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-December-17 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Henning | Matthews | Peterkin | Swartz
1944-March-08 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Hall | Leavey | Pattison | Pittendrigh | Walten
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD643

s/n
 FD643
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑451

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38095. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. Flown to No. 4 Repair Depot for repairs following a Category C crash, taken on strength there on 11 February 1944. Pending disposal from 20 July 1945. By 1 April 1946 on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at No. 5 equipment Depot at Scoudouc, NB. Noted with 151:40 total time, never overhauled, while on the books of No. 6 Repair Depot. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-November-28 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Jansen | Macare | Radius | Witterman
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD645

s/n
 FD645
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4752

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38097. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To workshop reserve at No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 24 December 1943, after it was struck by a tractor. Allocated to No. 21 Repair Depot at Moncton, NB for complete repair on 10 February 1944. To Eastern Air Command on 23 March 1944. To storage on 20 July 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 14 February 1945, still in storage. Issued from storage on 4 May 1945. Pending disposal from 3 April 1946, when it was at No. 6 Repair Depot at RCAF Station Trenton. Noted with 306:45 logged time, never overhauled, while in storage. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD646

s/n
 FD646
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4754

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38098. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 4 January 1944. Issued from storage on 21 February 1944, back to No. 34 OTU. To storage again on 22 May 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 14 February 1945, still in storage. Issued from storage on 2 April 1945. Pending disposal from 19 July 1945. By 18 June 1946 on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at No. 6 Repair Depot. Noted with 508:25 logged time, never overhauled, while in storage at No. 6 RD. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD649

s/n
 FD649
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4757

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38101. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 22 May 1944. Issued from storage on 27 October 1944, to No. 1 Training Command. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 January 1945. Pending disposal from 3 April 1946, when it was in storage at No. 6 Repair Depot at Trenton. Noted with 804:45 total time, never overhauled, on that date. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD654

s/n
 FD654
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4762

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38106. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 2 April 1946, when it was stored by Maintenance Command at No. 5 Equipment Depot at Moncton, NB. Noted with 323:35 total time, never overhauled, while in storage. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-June-21 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD660

s/n
 FD660
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4768

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38112. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 22 May 1944. Issued from storage on 20 July 1944 and returned to Pennfield Ridge. To No. 1 Training Command on 9 November 1944, for use by the Central Flying School at RCAF Station Trenton, Ontario. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 January 1945. Pending disposal from 3 April 1946, when it was stored by Maintenance Command at No. 6 Repair Depot at Trenton. Noted with 603:55 total time, never overhauled, while in storage. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD662

s/n
 FD662
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4770

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38114. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 22 May 1944. To No. 1 Training Command on 27 October 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 January 1945. Pending disposal from 3 April 1946, when it was stored by Maintenance Command at No. 6 Repair Depot at Trenton. Noted with 979:40 total time, never overhauled, while in storage. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD668

s/n
 FD668
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4776
Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38120. To stored reserve when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To No. 1 Training Command on 21 October 1944. To No. 1 Air Command on 15 January 1945. With the Central Flying School at RCAF Station Trenton, Ontario when it received Category C damage at Trenton on 28 March 1945. To workshop reserve at No. 6 Repair Depot at Trenton on 6 April 1945, "for further disposal action". Pending disposal from 7 September 1945. By 18 June 1946 on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at No. 6 RD. Noted with 347:00 total time, never overhauled, while stored at No. 6 RD. 2022-01-29
   1943-December-28 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1945-March-17 Accident: CENTRAL FLYING SCHOOL TRENTON Loc: Aerodrome Names: Steel | Tilley
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD675

s/n
 FD675
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4783

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38127. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot on 22 March 1944 for scrapping, following a Category B crash. Noted with 273:35 total time, never overhauled, while with No. 4 RD. Pending disposal from 31 July 1944, still on books of Eastern Air Command. On 1 April 1946 on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at No. 5 Equipment Depot at Scoudouc, NB. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1944-March-16 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Dewan | Kingsborough | Mckenna | Warner
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 537

Ventura FD677

s/n
 FD677
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4785

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38129. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 4 January 1944, back to No. 34 OTU on 21 February 1944. To storage again on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at No. 5 Equipment Depot at Scoudouc, NB. Noted with 131:05 total time while in storage. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD685

s/n
 FD685
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4793

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38137. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 4 January 1944. Pending disposal from 22 October 1945, when it was on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at No. 5 Equipment Depot at Scoudouc, NB. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD688

s/n
 FD688
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4796

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38140. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot on 17 February 1944 for fly in repairs, following a Category B crash, and pending allotment to a contractor for final repairs. No record repairs were finished. Pending disposal from 31 July 1944. Noted on 1 April 1946 as stored at No. 5 Equipment Depot at Scoudouc, NB. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1944-February-08 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Grounsell | Hearle | Jackson | Shields
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD689

s/n
 FD689
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4797

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38141. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. On 18 Jan 1944, the a/c engines failed while the pilot was changing petrol tanks necessitating a wheels-up forced landing. To storage at No. 4 Repair Depot on 31 Jan 1944, following this Cat “B” crash, and pending allotment to a contractor for final repairs. No record that repairs were ever started. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1944-January-18 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Derby Nova Scotia Names: Brooke | Tonkin | Vines | Wood
   1944-May-16 Struck off Strength Struck off, reduced to spares and produce 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD692

s/n
 FD692
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4800

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38144. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage 4 January to 21 February 1944, then back to No. 34 OTU. To storage again on 22 May 1944. By 25 October 1945 on the books of Maintenance Command, stored at No. 5 Equipment Depot at Scoudouc, NB. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2020-10-27
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD693

s/n
 FD693
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4801

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38145. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To workshop reserve at No. 4 Repair Depot on 14 December 1943, following a Category B crash. . During a day training flight, the u/c failed to lock despite the correct cockpit drill having been carried out. To Clarke Ruse Aircraft at Dartmouth, NS on 14 February 1944, to complete repairs. Back to No. 4 Repair Depot on 3 April 194. Pending disposal from 31 July 1944. Noted on 1 April 1946 as stored at No. 5 Equipment Depot at Scoudoc, NB. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-December-06 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Harder | Irvine | Mckinnon | Sim
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD697

s/n
 FD697
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 1374805

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38149. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. On 16 Dec 1943, the a/c suffered a Cat “C” accident, when the a/c came in contact with cable during an authorized low level cross country exercise. Pilot had been briefed for a minimum height 250 ft but due to inexperience he came below this height. Then just three days later on 19 Dec 1943, the a/c had a Cat “A” accident at McAdam, NB. FD697 crashed as a direct result of striking the water level indicator on top of the water tank located in the railway marshalling yards at McAdam, NB. The a/c was flying below the approved height of 250 feet at the time of impact as the height of the tower was 80 feet and the water level indicator extended another 30 feet above the tower. At the time of the accident Ventura FD 697 was in formation with # 972 flown by an Instructor of No. 34 OTU and leader of the formation. Both these a/c were at the same height at the time of the impact. The crew of FD697, consisting of Pilot Officer C.G. Christensen (Pilot), Flight Sergeant R.J. Barts (Nav), Flight Sergeant H.L. Anderson (WAG) and Flight Sergeant G.C. Cull, were all killed 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-December-16 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Durling | Stephens | Wetgarth-taylor | Young
1943-December-19 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Mcadam Junction Names: Anderson | Barts | Christensen | Cull
   1944-February-10 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
1943-December-19 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Herbert Lawrence Anderson 2023-05-08
1943-December-19 KIFA RCAF Sergeant Roy Joseph Barts 2023-05-31
1943-December-19 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Carlyle George Christensen 2024-02-17
1943-December-19 KIFA RCAF Sergeant George Christopher Cull 2023-03-04
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD699

s/n
 FD699
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4807

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38151. With No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Noted as "used" at that time. To storage on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 20 October 1945, when it was on the books of Maintenance Command, strored at No. 5 Equipment Depot at Scoudouc, NB. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD700

s/n
 FD700
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4808

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38152. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Suffered Cat “B” damage on 25 Mar 1944. During a night training flight, the a/c landed with one wheel retracted due to a technical failure. A rubber hose (re-positioned by RCAF Mod.E1/55/3) leading to port wheel "up" lock was found to have been chaffed through, by rubbing against the wheel in the retracted position. Repaired and returned to service as of 31 Jul 1944. To storage 10 Apr 1946 with 581:50 airframe hours. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1944-March-22 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Byrne | Holmes | Hughes | Judd
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD701

s/n
 FD701
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4809
Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38153. To stored EAC reserve on 14 Dec1943. To stored reserve No. 1 Air Command on 14 Feb 1945. To 6 RD Trenton on 14 Aug 1945.
2022-01-29
   1943-December-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1945-July-26 Accident: CENTRAL FLYING SCHOOL TRENTON Loc: Watertown New York Usa Names: Harvey | Morton
   1945-September-11 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD702

s/n
 FD702
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4810

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38154. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. To stored reserve with No. 2 Air Command on 1 Dec 1944 with 481:55 airframe hours. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-September-25 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD705

s/n
 FD705
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4813

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38157. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. Had 615:20 hours of airframe time when SOS. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD707

s/n
 FD707
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4815
Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38159. To stored reserve on 14 Feb 1945. 2022-01-29
   1944-January-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-July-03 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD710

s/n
 FD710
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4818
Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38162. To stored reserve on 04 Jan 1944. Had 356:05 hours of airframe time when SOS. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-June-02 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD711

s/n
 FD711
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4819

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38163. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944 with 595:55 airframe hours. 2022-01-29
   1944-January-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD712

s/n
 FD712
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4820

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38164. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve on 04 Jan 1944. Had 276:05 hours airframe time when SOS. Sold and registered in the US as N5771N to Miller Brewing Co, Milwaukee, WI. Re-registered as N44M again with Miller Brewing Co from 20 Jun 1951/54. Used as an executive aircraft, named High Life Beer. Crashed and was destroyed after takeoff from General Mitchell Field, Milwaukee, WI on 17 Dec 1954 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD713

s/n
 FD713
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4821

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38165. Had been operated by USAAF as a trainer at Randolph Field, Texas as an RB-34A before transferring to RAF. Being operated by the Operational Training Squadron at Pennfield Ridge when it swung during a night landing at Pennfield Ridge at 20:55 on 20 February 1945, and struck a snow bank beside the runway. Category C damage, no injuries. Apparently never repaired before being disposed of. 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-June-06 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD714

s/n
 FD714
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4822

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38166. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Suffered Cat “B” accident later re-classified to Cat “A” at Pennfield 2022-01-29
   1943-November-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1945-March-14 Accident: RCAF STN PENNFIELD RIDGE, NB Loc: Aerodrome Names: Aitken | Coffin | Doan | Mailloux | Pizzey
   1945-May-16 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD721

s/n
 FD721
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4829

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38173. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve 22 May 1944. Back to Pennfield Ridge 20 Jul 1944. Suffered Cat “B” damage on 19 Dec 1944 while being used by CFS. The a/c was on a low approach due wind and icy runway conditions. The pilot hit a hard snowbank at the end of the runway during the approach and broke the u/c linkage. The u/c subsequently collapsed during the landing on the runway and the a/c slid for 150-200 yards on its belly. The crew of two pilots escaped without injury 2022-01-29
   1944-January-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD728

s/n
 FD728
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4836

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38180. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. On 01 Dec 1943 at 20:20 hrs, on a local training flight, the tail oleo leg collapsed when tail wheel unlocked at the end of landing run. Sent to Clarke Ruse Aircraft for repairs on 14 Feb 1944. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1943-December-01 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Astridge | Doods | Knickerbocker
   1945-June-20 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD729

s/n
 FD729
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4837

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38181. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve 22 May 1944 with only 156:15 airframe hours. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-28 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD730

s/n
 FD730
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4838

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38182. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. On 31 Dec 1943 at 01:15 hrs the a/c suffered a Cat “D” accident. Owing to a film of oil on the windscreen, the pilot was unable to see clearly, consequently he levelled off too high on landing, and
on touching down the A/C swung sharply to port, off the runway onto rough ground. Pilot applied brakes in an effort to stop the a/c, causing the tail to come up and the propellor tips to touch the ground. Suffered Cat “A” accident (details unknown) on 08 Mar 1945. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1943-December-31 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Clark | Mcgowan | Mcwhirter | Ross
1945-March-01 Accident: CENTRAL FLYING SCHOOL TRENTON Loc: Aerodrome Names: Inrig | Smith
   1945-March-29 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD731

s/n
 FD731
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4839

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38183. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. Suffered Cat “C” damage on 24 Mar 1943. To stored reserve 14 Jul 1945. On 14 Nov 1945 allocated to No. 1 Air Command for one month of pilot conversion training. 2022-01-29
   1943-December-27 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1945-March-15 Accident: CENTRAL FLYING SCHOOL TRENTON Loc: Aerodrome Names: Bundy | Jones
   1947-July-03 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD732

s/n
 FD732
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4840

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38184. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. On 02 Jan 1944 at 18:35 hrs the a/c suffered a Cat “C” accident. During a day training flight, the a/c swung to port on take-off run. The pilot used port engine in an attempt to check the swing and a swing to starboard resulted and a/c ran off runway onto rough ground. To storage at Scoudouc, NB on 22 Oct 1945. Had 228:30 hours of airframe time when SOS.
2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1944-January-02 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Brown | Jones | Musso | Tivey
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD733

s/n
 FD733
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4841

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38185. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve on 10 Jul 1945. Had 430:40 hours of airframe time when SOS. 2022-01-29
   1943-December-01 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-June-02 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD738

s/n
 FD738
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4846

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38190. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To Moncton, NB on 2 Apr 1946. Had 241:00 hours of airframe time when SOS. 2022-01-29
   1944-January-15 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-June-02 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD739

s/n
 FD739
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4847

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38191. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. On 20 Apr 1944, the a/c had a Cat “C” accident at 18:30 hrs. The a/c struck power cables near the ground during a low-level cross country mission. To storage at Scoudouc, NB on 5 Apr 1946. Had 520:00 hours of airframe time when SOS. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1944-April-20 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Fredericton Names: Bressler | Mclaren | Ruthven | Trudeau
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD740

s/n
 FD740
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4848

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38192. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve on 22 May 1944. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-July-03 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD742

s/n
 FD742
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4850

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38194. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. On 25 Jan 1944, the a/c experienced a Cat “C” accident. During a day training flight, the port oleo leg collapsed due to fracture of upper drag strut, while the pilot was carrying out precautionary landing practice. To storage at Scoudouc, NB on 22 Oct 1945. Had 270:40 hours of airframe time when SOS.
2022-01-29
   1944-January-15 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1944-January-25 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Norton | Scribner | Wilson | Young
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD752

s/n
 FD752
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4860

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38204. Suffered Cat “B” damage on 11 Mar 1944. During a training flight, the student pilot swung off the runway during the take off. To storage on 10 Apr 1946 with 302:05 airframe hours. 2022-01-29
   1944-February-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1944-March-11 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Dewan | Kingsborough | Mckenna | Warner
   1947-April-17 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD754

s/n
 FD754
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4862

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38206. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve on 20 Dec 1944 with 765:15 airframe hours. 2022-01-29
   1943-December-01 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-January-16 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FD755

s/n
 FD755
m/d
 V‑146
c/n
 137‑4863

Known Squadron Assignments: ;34 OTU

Ex-USAAF B-34A, their serial number 41-38207. With No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB when taken on strength. To stored reserve on 4 Jan 1944 with 160:05 airframe hours. 2022-01-29
   1943-October-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1947-March-20 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 538

Ventura FN958

s/n
 FN958

Known Squadron Assignments: ;519

Ventura aircraft #FN 958 failed to return from a day meteorological flight. Last reported position was north-east of the Shetland Islands, Scotland 2022-01-29
1944-March-12 KIA RCAF Flight Sergeant Clyde Thomas Young 2021-05-30

Ventura FN967

s/n
 FN967
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33295. Delivered to No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB on 6 July 1943. To storage on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 3 December 1945, when it was stored at the Reserve Equipment Maintenance Satellite at Moncton, NB. By 1 April 1946 on the books of No. 5 Equipment Depot, still at Moncton. Noted with 696:20 total time while in storage. 2010-03-06
   1943-June-07 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1947-April-18 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN971

s/n
 FN971
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33299. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 7 June 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. Delivered to Dorval, Quebec by No. 34 OTU crew on 31 July 1943. According to Robertson, this aircraft went to the UK. Baugher reports this aircraft ditched in the Mediterranean on 11 March 1944, while being operated by 17 Squadron of the South African Air Force. 2023-06-17
   1943-June-07 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-24 Ferry Flight To RAF SOS 1944-04-01

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN972

s/n
 FN972
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 34 OTU

Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33326. Delivered to No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB. To storage on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 2 December 1945, when it was stored at No. 6 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit. Reported with 847:20 total time while in storage. 2023-06-17
   1943-June-09 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN973

s/n
 FN973
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 34 OTU

Ex-USN PV-1, their serial 33328. Delivered to No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. Crashed into the Bay of Fundy on 10 Aug 1943, wreckage not recovered. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot for write off on 12 Aug 1943.
Five a/c took-off for a low-level navigation cross country flight with a bombing and air firing exercise on return. Four a/c completed the exercise but the fifth, FN973 failed to return. The last communication from this a/c was received by R/T after the cross country had been completed and permission to proceed to the bombing range was requested and given. The a/c apparently crashed during a firing or bombing run.
The crew: Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) R. Laws (Pilot), P/O. R.A. Ledingham (Nav), Flight Sergeant (RNZAF) T.A. Albrey, (WAG) and P/O. J.C. Allen (AG), were declared as “missing”.
Wreckage from FN973 was subsequently found by the Pennfield Crash Boat, M413 south of the Wolves. On 12 Aug 1943, the body of Pilot Officer R.A. Ledingham was picked up by fisherman south of the Wolves and was brought into Black's Harbour by the station’s crash boat. 2023-06-17
   1943-June-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-August-10 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Not Known Names: Albrey | Allen | Laws | Ledingham
   1944-January-20 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
1943-August-10 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant Trevor Alexander Albrey 2023-02-08
1943-August-10 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Joseph Cletus Allen 2023-02-08
1943-August-10 KIFA RNZAF Sergeant Russell Laws 2022-12-30
1943-August-10 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Robert Alexander Ledingham 2023-07-07
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN974

s/n
 FN974
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 34 OTU

Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33330. Delivered to No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Pennfield Ridge, NB on 9 June 1943. To storage on 22 May 1944. Pending disposal from 2 December 1945, when it was stored at No. 6 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit. Reported with 589:30 total time, never overhauled, while in storage. 2023-06-17
   1943-June-07 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN975

s/n
 FN975
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 34 OTU

Ex-USN PV-1, their serial 33332. Suffered Cat “B” accident on 31 Jul 1943 at 14:15 hrs. During a ferry flight, the a/c swung to port on take-off tearing out wheel tail assembly. Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot on 3 Aug 1943 for salvage 2023-06-17
   1943-June-14 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-July-31 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Moe | Olsen
   1944-July-06 Ferry Flight To RAF SOS 1947-01-30

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN976

s/n
 FN976
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial ? An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 7 June 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. Delivered to Dorval, Quebec by No. 34 OTU crew on 31 July 1943. According to Robertson, this aircraft went to the UK. 2023-06-17
   1943-June-07 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-17 Ferry Flight To RAF SOS 1945-02-22

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN977

s/n
 FN977
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 34 OTU

Allocated to No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge but suffered Cat “A” crash on 12 Jun 1943 at Quonset Point NAS, RI, USA before delivery to Canada. Due to pilot error the a/c swung on take-off and collided with a light AA gun and landed in the sea. The pilot, Flight Sergeant (RAF) D.W.J. Odlum was slightly injured but the WAG, WO1 H.T.C. Burley was knocked unconscious and subsequently drowned. There was another third party injury; Cpl. Seymore Wishbone of the US Army on duty at the anti-a/c gun post was struck by the a/c and was seriously injured. The airframe was later allocated for record keeping purposes to No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 3 Aug 1944 for write-off 2023-06-17
1943-June-12 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Quonsett Point Rhode Island USA Names: Burley | Odlum
   1943-June-25 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
   1943-November-19 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
1943-June-12 KIFA RCAF Warrant Officer 1st Class Thomas Herbert Campbell Burley 2023-02-21
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN978

s/n
 FN978
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial ? An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 9 June 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. 2023-06-26
   1943-June-09 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-October-07 Ferry Flight To RAF Cat E 25 Feb 44

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN979

s/n
 FN979
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 34 OTU

Delivered to No. 34 OTU at Pennfield Ridge, NB. The a/c suffered a Cat “B’ accident at 19:40 hrs on 30 Dec 1943. During a training flight the a/c swung viciously to port with a student pilot flying. As there was no dual control fitted, the instructor, realizing that the a/c would hit trees at the edge of the aerodrome, retracted the u/c and the a/c was subsequently damaged.
Allocated to No. 4 Repair Depot on 15 Jan 1944, for storage pending allocation to contractor. To No. 17 Aeronautical Inspection Detachment at Moncton, NB on 28 Mar 1944, then to Clark Ruse Aircraft for crash repairs.
To stored reserve with EAC on 26 Sep 1944. Pending disposal from 3 Dec 1945, when it was stored at No. 6 Reserve Equipment Maintenance Unit. Reported with 474:00 hrs total time, never overhauled, when placed in storage.
2023-06-17
   1943-June-09 Taken on Strength Eastern Air Command 2019-08-20
1943-August-03 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Batt | Graham | Ross | Sidaway
1943-December-30 Accident: 34 Operational Training Unit Loc: Aerodrome Names: Edwards | Knickerbocker | Knight | MacDonald | Thorenton
   1946-December-07 Struck off Strength Struck off, to War Assets Corporation for disposal 2019-08-20
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN980

s/n
 FN980
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 34 OTU

Ex-USN PV-1, their serial ? A RCAF Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 OTU from 14 Jun 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. According to other sources, this aircraft was delivered to the RAF. Served with No. 75 OTU, and crashed on 6 Jul 1944. 2023-06-17
   1943-June-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-28 Ferry Flight To RAF crashed SOS 1944-07-06

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN981

s/n
 FN981
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial ? An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 23 June 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. N 2023-06-22
   1943-June-23 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-October-09 Ferry Flight To RAF SOS 14 Sep 45

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN982

s/n
 FN982
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33386. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 23 June 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. Delivered to Dorval, Quebec by No. 34 OTU crew on 31 July 1943. According to Robertson, this aircraft was delivered to the RAF. Served with 500 Squadron, struck off on 14 March 1946. 2023-06-17
   1943-June-23 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-28 Ferry Flight To RAF Med/ME, SOS 14 Mar 46

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FN983

s/n
 FN983
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33387. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 17 June 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. According to Robertson, this aircraft was delivered to the RAF. Served in the Mediterranean, struck off on 14 June 1945. 2023-06-17
   1943-June-17 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-October-11 Ferry Flight To RAF SOS 14 Jun 45

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FP542

s/n
 FP542
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33461. Collected by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Quonset Point, USA and delivered to Penfield Ridge on 10 July 1943, probably on RAF books at that time. Returned to Quonset Point on 19 July 1943, struck of No. 34 OTU books. Diverted shortly after to RAF overseas. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 13 July 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. Served with 459 Squadron, RAAF, struck off on 4 May 1944. 2023-06-17
   1943-July-13 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-August-06 Ferry Flight To RAAF No 459 Squadron

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
   1944-May-04 Struck off Strength 2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FP543

s/n
 FP543
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 459

Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33463. Collected by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Quonset Point, USA and delivered to Penfield Ridge on 10 July 1943, probably on RAF books at that time. Returned to Quonset Point on 19 July 1943, struck of No. 34 OTU books. Diverted shortly after to RAF overseas. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 13 July 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. Served with 17 Squadron, SAAF. Reported missing from patrol on 4 February 1944. 2023-06-17
   1943-July-13 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-18 Ferry Flight To 17 Squadron SAAF SOS 1944-03-01

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
1944-February-03 KIA RCAF Leading Aircraftman George Campbell 2023-12-12
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FP544

s/n
 FP544
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33462. Collected by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Quonset Point, USA and delivered to Penfield Ridge on 10 July 1943, probably on RAF books at that time. Returned to Quonset Point on 19 July 1943, struck of No. 34 OTU books. Diverted shortly after to RAF overseas. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 13 July 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. Served with No. 17 Squadron SAAF and No. 459 Squadron. Reported missing from patrol on 28 January 1944. 2023-06-17
   1943-July-13 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-18 Ferry Flight To SAAF Squadron No. 17 SOS 1944-01-28

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FP545

s/n
 FP545
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 459

Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33464. Collected by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Quonset Point, USA and delivered to Penfield Ridge on 13 July 1943, probably on RAF books at that time. Returned to Quonset Point on 31 July 1943, struck of No. 34 OTU books. Diverted shortly after to RAF overseas. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 14 July 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. Served with No. 459 Squadron. Reported missing from convoy escort on 16 February 1944. 2023-06-17
   1943-July-13 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-07 Ferry Flight To RAF SOS1944-02-+14

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
1944-February-14 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 1st Class Joseph Noel Leopold Roy 2021-08-06
1944-February-14 KIA RCAF Warrant Officer 1st Class Douglas Victor Walker 2021-08-22
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FP546

s/n
 FP546
m/d
 V‑146

Known Squadron Assignments: 500

Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33465. Collected by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Quonset Point, USA and delivered to Penfield Ridge on 12 or 13 July 1943, probably on RAF books at that time. Returned to Quonset Point on 31 July 1943, struck of No. 34 OTU books. Diverted shortly after to RAF overseas. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 14 July 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. Served with No. 500 Squadron, RAF. Crashed into sea off Oran, Algeria on 7 March 1944. 2023-06-17
   1943-July-13 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-22 Ferry Flight To No. 500 Sqn RAF SOS 1944-03-09

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
1944-March-07 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer Neil Donald Campbell 2023-12-13
1944-March-07 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer Gerald Alexandre Arthur Antoine Caron 2024-01-06
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FP547

s/n
 FP547
m/d
 V‑146
Ex USN PV-1, their serial 33466 Collected by No. 34 Operational Training Unit at Quonset Point, USA and delivered to Penfield Ridge on 13 July 1943, probably on RAF books at that time. Returned to Quonset Point on 31 July 1943, struck of No. 34 OTU books. Diverted shortly after to RAF overseas. An Aircraft Record Card exists for this serial number, indicating it was intended for No. 34 Operational Training Unit from 14 July 1943. This first entry has been crossed out, and there is no further information on the card. No further records that indicate this aircraft was in fact used by the RCAF. Served with No. 459 Squadron and No. 75 Operational Training Unit, RAF. Struck off by RAF on 14 March 1946. 2023-06-17
   1943-July-13 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
   1943-September-10 Ferry Flight TO RAF SOS 1946-03-14

source: Geoffrey Sinclair

2023-06-26
📙 JA Griffin (2005:Smith, Castle): 1968 562

Ventura FP633

s/n
 FP633

Known Squadron Assignments: ;500

Ventura aircraft #FP 633 was shot down in the sea by one of our own Beaufighter aircraft. 2022-01-29
1944-April-01 KIA RCAF Pilot Officer Frederick Joseph Schmidt 2021-08-04
1944-April-01 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Wayne Sheldon Shea 2021-07-30

Ventura FP645

s/n
 FP645

Known Squadron Assignments: Ferry Command;45

Ventura aircraft was being delivered to #111 O.T.U. at Nassau, Bahamas when it crashed at Trinidad. 2022-01-29
1943-November-22 KIFA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Laurie Francis Burke 2023-08-05
1943-November-22 KIFA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class Russell Graham Wilson 2023-08-05
1943-November-22 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Louis Winkler 2023-08-05

Ventura FP647

s/n
 FP647

Known Squadron Assignments: ;45

Ventura PV-1 aircraft #FP 647 lost on a ferry flight out of Trinidad, destined for South Africa, cause unknown 2022-01-29
1943-November-07 KIFA RCAF Leading Aircraftman Charles Ewart Conroy 2024-03-28
1943-November-07 KIFA RAF Civilian Leonard Sylvester Lumb 2023-02-12
1943-November-07 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer John Allen Ovens 2023-02-15
1943-November-07 KIFA RAF Civilian Eugene Gilbert Young 2023-02-16

Ventura FP659

s/n
 FP659

Known Squadron Assignments: ;5

Ventura aircraft #FP 659 crashed at Turnberry, Scotland after the port engine failed during take-off 2022-01-29
1944-May-21 KIFA RCAF Warrant Officer 1st Class Walter Henry Harris 2021-08-09
1944-May-21 KIFA RCAF Flight Sergeant Joseph Patrick O'Neill 2021-08-17
1944-May-21 KIFA RAF Flying Officer George John Wilcox 2022-01-02

Ventura JS918

s/n
 JS918

Known Squadron Assignments: ;519

Ventura aircraft #JS 918 took-off on a meteorological flight and had been flying normally for about ten minutes when it went into a right hand roll and crashed one mile south-west of Keiss, Caithness. 2022-01-29
1944-August-31 KIA RCAF Flight Lieutenant Charles Willis Gaines 2021-08-07
1944-August-31 KIA RAF Flight Sergeant Walter Elijah Sweetapple 2021-07-21

Ventura JT801

s/n
 JT801

Known Squadron Assignments: ;45

The crew of Ventura aircraft #JT 801 departed Zandery enroute Belem and failed to arrive at their destination 2022-01-29

Ferry Flight 1944-01-16 to 1944-01-17

45 (T) Group (RAF) Nassau, Bahamas

45 Group RAF Transport Command, Nassau, Bahamas. Ventura aircraft JT 801 departed Zandery Field Suriname en-route to Belem, Brazil but crashed in a swamp in Brazil with the loss of the three man crew, cause unknown

Wireless Operator WO2 GA Flood (RCAF), Navigator F/O RA Wilkins (RCAF) and American Civilian Pilot, Captain PK Herndon, were all missing, presumed killed in this flying accident

The missing have no known grave and all are commemorated on the Ottawa Memorial

Ocean Bridge, The History of RAF Ferry Command by Carl A Christie page 322

General [Royal Air Force Serial and Image Database]...


1944-January-17 KIFA RCAF Warrant Officer 2nd Class George Andrew Flood 2022-12-13
1944-January-17 KIFA RAF Civilian Preston Krumbhaar Herndon 2022-12-13
1944-January-17 KIFA RCAF Flying Officer Robert Archie Wilkins 2022-12-13

Ventura JT846

s/n
 JT846

Known Squadron Assignments: ;45

Ventura aircraft #JT 846 crashed into the sea off Iceland. 2022-01-29
1944-May-19 KIFA RCAF Pilot Officer Harold Edwin Hutchings 2023-07-16

Ventura SAAF6457

s/n
 SAAF6457

Known Squadron Assignments: ;27

Ventura aircraft flew into a mountain in bad weather near Darling, South Africa. 2022-01-29
1944-April-12 KIA RCAF Flying Officer Robert Wayne Honderich 2023-08-01

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