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History will be made on June 22, 2014, in Tillsonburg, Ont., when more than a dozen Second World War Harvard aircraft will participate in a mass flypast to honour the 75th anniversary of the aircraft that played a pivotal role in securing our freedom.
For anyone who has ties to the Second World War, is an aviation or history enthusiast, or looks for opportunities to honour our veterans, this event is not to be missed.
Hosted by the Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association (CHAA), this three-day event from June 20 to 22 is billed as “A Gathering of Harvards and Heroes.” More than two dozen assorted vintage aircraft will arrive at CHAA’s home at the Tillsonburg Regional Airport from across Canada and the United States to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Harvard in Canada and to honour the men and women who were associated with the aircraft.
The North American Aviation Harvard, or AT-6 Texan or SNJ as it was known in the U.S., was the primary advanced, single-engine aircraft used to train more than 130,000 aircrew under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan in Canada during the Second World War. With its distinctive roar, the Harvard was a familiar sight and sound at air bases across Canada.
Invitations have been sent to all 144 owners/operators of surviving Harvards in the United States and Canada. “A Gathering of Harvards and Heroes” will see the owners/operators participate in a number of workshops while networking with fellow Harvard enthusiasts.
The event also gives CHAA the opportunity to honour all veterans, especially those who were involved with Harvards during and after the war. Let’s keep in mind these aircraft served in the RCAF until 1965. Our celebration ceremony is set for 11 a.m. on Saturday and will include a formation flypast. The Saturday evening banquet will feature guest speaker Lieutenant-General (Retired) Allan DeQuetteville, Commander, Air Command in Canada from 1995 to 1997.
The public is invited to join the event, especially on Saturday and Sunday, to see these memorable aircraft take to the skies. There is no admission fee, but donations to CHAA are encouraged.
A Gathering of Harvards and Heroes schedule highlights:
Friday, June 20
- Arrival and practice day
Saturday, June 21
- 11 a.m. Celebration of Heroes Ceremony and flyover of Harvards.
- Workshops, networking
- Dinner Banquet with guest speaker Lieutenant-General (Retired) Allan DeQuetteville, Commander, Air Command in Canada from 1995 to 1997
Sunday, June 22
- 1 p.m. Mass flyover of more than a dozen Harvards
For more information, click here or call (519) 842-9922.
