3 Operational Training Unit, Patricia Bay, British Columbia.
Leading Aircraftman Bell and FS W.R. McCarty were both killed when Stranraer aircraft 916 crashed due to a misjudged landing over a glassy sea in Stewart Channel, off Crofton, British Columbia.
Bell, John Mcclelland (Leading Aircraftman)
Killed in Flying Accident 1943-July-18
Birth Date: 1917-February-02
Born:
Parents: William and Kathleen Bell
Spouse:
Home: Vancouver, British Columbia (parents)
Enlistment:
Enlistment Date: unkown date
Service
RCAF
Unit
3 OTU- Operational Training Unit
Base
RCAF Stn. Patricia Bay, British Columbia
Rank
Leading Aircraftman
Position
Flight Engineer
Service Numbers
R/162924
Target
Training
Canadian Virtual War Memorial
Commonwealth War Graves Commission
Finadagrave.com
Library and Archives Canada Service Files (may not exist)Crew or Other Personnel
Stranraer 916
Unit Desciption
3 OTU (3 Operational Training Unit)
The Operational Training Unit (OTU) was the last stop for aircrew trainees. They spent 8 to 14 weeks learning to fly operational aircraft (Hawker Hurricane or Fairey Swordfish, e.g.). The instructors had experience in actual operations, and often were posted to OTUs after their operational tour.
Lysander NO3 OTU
RCAF.info - RCAF Station Patricia Bay B.C.
Project 44 BCATP
YouTube - Valour Canada Aerodrome of Democracy