Historical Record
1 December 1956 to 31 May 1957
3 Dec 56
Annual overhaul completed on MPS-11 by General Electric personnel from Nancy, France. RCAF technicians assisted in the overhaul operations and as a result it is estimated that the period of overhaul was shortened by several days. The Commanding Officer, W/C SM Strange departed for 4 ATAF HQ Trier to participate in a conference regarding a forthcoming exercise. Operational activity was limited today due to unfavorable weather conditions.
4 Dec 56
Site visited by personnel of the Moselle Military Approach Control Unit. Following a briefing and general familiarization of our site, a lecture on the subject of Military Approach Control Techniques was given to the visiting team. Once officer representative departed for DAT, Versailles, as a member of the analysis team for the forthcoming Exercise "Argus".
6 Dec 56
Exercise "Argus" conducted on a limited scale only due to unfavorable weather conditions. Trade examination results received this date with indications of an extremely good showing by this unit’s personnel. Results as follows: Percentage Passed – 90.5. Average Mark - 70. Three FtrCops placed in top ten throughout the RCAF. As a result of the above, a personal letter was received from the AOC, 1 Air Division, commending the squadron on its fine showing.
7 Dec 56
This unit assisted in the recovery of two aircraft in distress, both landed safely. Otherwise normal operations. The unit personnel strength as of this date:
Officers |
29 |
Airmen |
216 |
Civilians |
4 |
Total |
249 |
10 Dec 56
An unfortunate incident took place when a 4 (F) Wing Zulu Flight Leader (Yardarm Zulu Tango Lead) flamed out on approach to his station beacon at the conclusion of an Air Defence Exercise. The pilot involved crashed and was killed near the village of Buhlhoho, Germany. Work completed on the re-allocation of office space in the Administrative Building. The work was completed in two phases as follows:
Phase 1 |
Re-grouping of COpsO and Tech Reps office in view of expansion of the operational staff. |
Phase 2 |
Movement of the Message Centre into a separate office to comply with security requirements in view of the acquisition of on-line cypher equipment by this unit |
11 Dec 56
Operational activities highlighted by a successful "Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage" with the French Air Force. This unit assisted in the recovery of two aircraft in distress, both landed safely. The CO and COpsO departed for Landstuhl, Germany for discussions with personnel from the 807th Tactical Control Wing (USAF), concerning new operational telling procedures between the RCAF and USAF radar squadrons based in Europe.
12 Dec 56
Motor "A" for the Type 80 aerial turning system was disconnected after a loose bearing caused an oil leak. Operating on Motor "B".
13 Dec 56
Motor "A" unserviceability referred to in the 12 Dec 56 entry now repaired. Type 80 rotation now being accomplished by utilizing both motors "A" and "B".
14 Dec 56
Normal operations.
16 Dec 56
Visual sightings of a Russian IL-28 type aircraft reported in the area of Wunsdorff, West Germany, by a US Army Group. In addition, a Dutch Major reported siting two IL-28 aircraft in the Hanover area. All siting were reportedly low level at high speed. Extra precautions were taken, but no further incidents of this nature occurred.
17 Dec 56
Heavy operational load carried by this unit in a day of fine weather. No unusual operational occurrences. Cracks were discovered in the antenna spokes of Height Finder #2. This equipment was hampered operationally and it is estimated that welding will correct the fault. The new message centre, including the on-line cypher equipment now fully operational. Majors Palmer and McKenna (USAF) of the 4 ATAF HQ visited the unit for technical discussions with the CTSO.
18 Dec 56
"Exercise Tuesday Scrimmage" and multiple intercepts against RAF overflying bombers completed the daylight operational program. A heavy night flying commitment gave this unit a total of 73 aircraft ranging from IFF checks to flight following and practice interceptions.
19 Dec 56
Exercise conducted with Ouragon type aircraft of the French Air Force against our F-86 MK VI aircraft in the regions of southern France. Weather deteriorated later in day, limiting afternoon and night operations.
20 Dec 56
Establishment amendment received transferring PPOp positions from the Support Unit establishment to the establishment of this unit. Operation activity limited by very poor weather conditions.
21 Dec 56
Welding operations on Height Finder #2 completed. (Reference 17 Dec 56 entry). Weather continuing very poor, operations limited. Information received from CJS, London, that training of RCAF technicians on British radar equipment can be carried out at 1 Radio School, Locking. Courses to be approximately 13 weeks duration, with first intake on 11 Feb 57. First course to comprise of a Tech/Tel Officer and five airmen. In addition to Type 80 and Fixed Coil Training, the School is prepared to give familiarization on FPS-6 equipment.
22 Dec 56
Normal operations.
24 Dec 56
Height Finder #3 unserviceable – broken pulse transformer and no spare available. Three power plant operators transferred to this unit from the Support Unit, Metz, to fill the new establishment at this unit for the a/n trade. (Reference 20 Dec 56 entry).
25 Dec 56
Reduced operations – Christmas Day.
26 Dec 56
New transformer installed in Height Finder #3 and this gear now serviceable. A similar fault is now feared in Height Finder #1 and this gear will remain unserviceable until replacement parts can be procured.
27 Dec 56
Runway breaking action very poor – little operational activity.
28 Dec 56
Results of Officers Promotion Board and Permanent Commissions released. 61 AC&W Squadron. Officers were affected as follows:
Promoted to F/L |
F/O JDS Dickson |
|
F/O E Chenier |
|
F/O WD Hawke |
|
F/O RE Laird |
|
F/O WE Vine |
Selected for PCs |
F/O DG Fry |
|
F/O J deBagheera |
|
F/O FA Nixon |
One Year Extension to SSC |
F/O EB Cooke (Now at 1 Air Div. HQ) |
|
F/O JR Gendron |
29 Dec 56
F/O DE Popham, AS/FtrC, reported on transfer from RCAF Station Foymount.
1 Jan 57
Nominal Roll
61 AC&W Squadron Officers
Position |
Rank and Name |
Secondary Duty |
CO |
W/C SM Strange |
|
Adjutant |
F/O EH Miller |
Canteen Officer |
COpsO |
S/L GF Ockenden |
|
Senior Controller |
S/L RT Paul |
|
CTSO |
F/L AA Davis |
|
Rad O |
F/L JG Ford |
|
Rad 1 |
F/O GW Tahirali |
|
Ops O |
F/L TE Wallis |
|
Train O |
F/O DG Fry |
|
French Liaison Officer |
F/L JDS Dickson |
Attached 1 Air Div./SASO Exercise Coordinator |
Day Crew |
|
|
Duty Controller |
F/L WE Vine |
|
Intercept Controller |
F/O JH Vickers |
|
|
F/O EE Carroll |
|
|
F/O DE Popham |
|
Crew 1 |
|
|
Duty Controller |
F/L E Chenier |
|
Intercept Controller |
F/O Cays |
Unit Historian |
|
F/O D Symington |
|
|
F/O FA Nixon |
|
|
F/O MD O’Reilly |
|
Crew 2 |
|
|
Duty Controller |
F/L RE Laird |
Unit Intelligence O |
Intercept Controller |
F/O DR Paige |
|
|
F/O D Zeltvany |
|
|
F/O J deBagheera |
|
|
F/O JR Vance |
GDEFO – Calibration O |
Crew 3 |
|
|
Duty Controller |
F/L WD Hawke |
|
Intercept Controller |
F/O JR Gendron |
Trade Advancement O |
|
F/O FM L-Thomas |
Pubs O |
|
F/O TE Meloche |
|
|
F/O JE Spiller |
|
Little operational activity due to poor breaking action on runways – also New Year’s Day.
2 Jan 57
Normal operations.
3 Jan 57
This unit controlled a flight of four Zulu aircraft from 4 (F) Wing against an unknown track which appeared in the ADIZ. The track was identified as an RAF Canberra #WT5111. 12 AF ACC advised that they were going to file a violation against the aircraft involved.
9 Jan 57
A total of three aircraft emergencies handled by this unit today. The first emergency occurred when the Lead aircraft from a 4 (F) Wing section (Yardarm Zulu Tango) collided in mid air with #4 aircraft of a 2 (F) Wing section (Horseman Zulu Papa) during an Air Defence exercise. Tango leader ejected safely while Horseman Zulu Papa 4 landed safely at his home base. The third emergency took place in the vicinity of Zweibrucken when an aircraft from that unit called to say he was out of control. Efforts to recover this aircraft became futile as the pilot was unable to regain control and ejected safely.
10 Jan 57
Exercise "Argus" postponed for one week due to poor breaking action on all RCAF Wing runways. A "Live Scramble" was initiated against an unknown track. The intercept was not completed, however, as the track was identified friendly by USAF interceptors.
11 Jan 57
Operational activity limited in the early hours of the day because of snow and ice on runways. This situation improved by mid-morning and Exercise "Argus" conducted with good results. This unit assisted in the recovery of two aircraft in emergency, one USAF and one FAF – both landed safely.
12 Jan 57
Little activity – foul weather.
13 Jan 57
F/L JL Ford, RadO, proceeded to RAF Station Locking to finalize details of Radar Tech course on British equipment. (Refer to 21 Dec 56 entry).
14 Jan 57
General JE Valluy, Commander in Chief, Allied Forces Central Europe, visited the unit.
16 Jan 57
Considerable interceptor activity conducted against RAF Canberra type aircraft overflying this unit’s area of radar coverage. Normal practice scrambles with IDF fighters all day, together with assistance rendered to two aircraft in distress. Further cracking of antenna in Height Finder #3 discovered. Welding of this equipment will take place as soon as possible.
17 Jan 57
Normal operations.
18 Jan 57
RCAF interceptors from 4 (F) Wing investigated an unknown track detected in the ADIZ. The aircraft was identified as a USAF B-57. 1 (F) Wing conducted a practice alert during the night. This action resulted in 45 aircraft from the unit under control by 61 AC&W Squadron for the duration of the alert, approximately one hour.
20 Jan 57
The Commanding Officer and CTSO proceeded to London and Chelmsford to view latest developments in Decca’s and Marconi radar and radio equipments.
21 Jan 57
Normal operations.
22 Jan 57
Aircraft emergency under thus units control (RCAF – Stylus 25). Aircraft had locked elevator control. This unit vectored the aircraft to home plate, pilot ejected safely. Rifle fire in vicinity of the receiver site investigated. No trace of offenders.
23 Jan 57
One unknown track detected in the ADIZ and identification procured by live scramble of Zulu alert aircraft from 4 (F) Wing under this units control. Two further unknowns were detected in the ADIZ later in the day, but these were investigated by USAF fighters under USAF CRC control.
24 Jan 57
Extensive intercept activity against RAF overflights this date. The unit had 28 fighters assigned for this mission consisting of both AWF and IDF aircraft. Good results achieved. However, difficulty was experienced in intercepting Valiant type bombers due to their high operating altitude.
25 Jan 57
Runway icing conditions limited operations this date.
26 Jan 57
Runway icing conditions prevailing. Limited operations.
27 Jan 57
Normal operations.
28 Jan 57
Weather and runway braking action poor this date. Little operational activity as a result. Welding of antenna on Height Finder #3 carried out and this gear now fully serviceable. A new transformer installed in Height Finder #1 and this equipment now operational.
29 Jan 57
A flight of USAF (AW) fighters handed over to this unit’s control for a live scramble against an unknown track in the ADIZ. The track was identified as a Belgium T-33 type aircraft. An F-86 from 3 (F) Wing in distress diverted to Petit Brogel airfield for an emergency landing. Pilot effected a safe landing. Aircraft repaired on ground and returned to base later in the day.
30 Jan 57
RCAF (AW) fighters from 1 (F) Wing utilized for the first time in a live scramble against an unknown track. The track was identified as a USAF T-33. Type 80 equipment off the air for semi-annual maintenance.
31 Jan 57
A live scramble initiated against an unknown track jamming unit radar gear. The track intercepted by aircraft from 4 (F) Wing and identified as a USAF B-50. Assistance rendered to four aircraft in distress.
1 Feb 57
A section of four F-86 aircraft from 2 (F) Wing in emergency (fuel shortage) successfully recovered at Rhine Main airfield. Unit participated in Exercise "Big Bird" (practice mechanical jamming). A flight of USAF (AWF) under this units control for an unknown track over Switzerland. The track faded prior to interception and fighters handed back to a USAF agency for recovery. Primary radar equipment taken off the air at 1425 hours due to technical difficulties. Unit operated on secondary gear (MPS-11) for remainder of day.
2 Feb 57
Semi-annual maintenance completed on Type 80 equipment.
3 Feb 57
Normal operations.
4 Feb 57
Two aircraft from 3 (F) Wing in emergency (Stopgap Kilo Lead and #2), successfully recovered at Laon airfield. Aircraft had fuel line problems. A third aircraft from 3 (F) Wing flamed out over Paris – relit but recovered at Laon as well. Dr. Fredrick Gracely, Operations Analyst, HQ USAF, together with Dr. Leggatt visited the unit to discuss radar control and warning problems with the Commanding Officer.
5 Feb 57
Unit participated in a test to determine the practicability of having an automatic chaff drop from an aircraft when the aircraft is being abandoned during an emergency. This test primarily to ensure position of bailout. The chaff was dropped at 30,000 feet and was visible on the unit radar for one hour and fifteen minutes, although it drifted some 50 miles prior to fade. Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" with French Air Force successful. Exercise "Big Bird" with USAF – practice mechanical jamming.
6 Feb 57
A Danish Airforce team visited the unit for familiarization with RCAF operations in Europe. The team included the following:
Lt. Col. Gundstrup |
HQ R Danish AF |
Lt. Col. Sandquist |
HQ R Danish AF |
Lt. Col. Nielson |
Danish Construction Corps |
Mr. Fredericken |
Danish Construction Corps |
Mr. Balsef |
RDAF Air Materiel Command |
7 Feb 57
Exercise "Argus" with RAF Hunter aircraft providing the better part of the target aircraft. This unit accomplished 15 successful interceptions during the course of the exercise. The first group of RCAF technicians (one officer – two airmen) proceeded to RAF Station Locking, to attend a three month course on British radar. (Refer to 21 Dec 56 entry)
8 Feb 57
Exercise "Bomex" (RAF bombers overflying unit radar) this date. 20 intercepts were attempted with 18 successful. Fighters were unable to attain sufficient altitude in two instances due to a heavy fuel load.
11 Feb 57
Personnel from SOMS staff of 1 Air Div. HQ visited unit to investigate the danger of radiation from the radar equipment. No immediate results of their survey were made to the unit.
12 Feb 57
Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" with FAF held in two stages. Morning and afternoon. A total of 8 intercepts were conducted, 4 by the French and 4 by RCAF fighters.
16 Feb 57
423 (CF-100) Squadron arrived at 2 (F) Wing, Gros Tenquin this date. The ferrying operation from St. Hubert airfield, Canada, was accomplished without incident, in an operation titled "Nimblebat II". The aircraft checked in on radio with this unit and were given surveillance to their new home base. Several interceptions were made on the incoming aircraft by CF-100 aircraft already based at 1 (F) Wing, Marville.
18 Feb 57
A section of USAF (AW) fighters under this units control on a "live" status to investigate an unknown track detected over Austria. Identified as an Air France Constellation off track. The Commanding Officer attended a conference dealing with establishments at 1 Air Div. HQ. The meeting agreed to this units proposal for the following:
Add |
Delete |
1 F/L and 7 F/O FtrC Officers |
1 FS FtrCop |
1 Sgt. and 17 Cpl. FtrCops |
30 AC FtrCops |
3 Sgt., 1 Cpl., and 2 AC Radar Techs |
5 AC AW FtrCops |
1 Sgt., 5 Cpl., and 8 AC AFPs |
|
Change WO2 PPOp to WO1 PPOp |
|
GE personnel arrived from Nancy and installed a new crank on the Elevation Drive Motor on Height Finder #2 to permit this gear to operate on a 5 or 34 degree nod, as required.
19 Feb 57
Unit detected an aircraft in distress in the 4 (F) Wing area. Deviated a section from 3 (F) Wing to intercept and lead the distressed aircraft into 4 (F) Wing. The aircraft involved was a USAF F-84F which landed safely at 4 (F) Wing. Operations limited for a part of the day to permit an all out inspection of the automatic seat and harness release cartridges in T-33 and F-86 type aircraft. Exercise "Bagarre" held with fighters from 3 (F) Wing completing 4 successful interceptions on FAF Mysteres who were target aircraft in this exercise. Familiarization visit by Lt. Col. Buegir, Major Crokilie, Capt./Cmdr Mechatte and Major Cabolet of the Belgian Air Force. Capt./Cmdr Mechatte remained at the site until 22 Feb 57 to obtain further details required by the Belgian Air Force who are installing the Type 80 radar equipment.
20 Feb 57
Arrangements for an extensive handover program between RCAF and USAF CRCs completed this date. It was agreed that a minimum of one handover daily would be completed if radio communications were serviceable.
21 Feb 57
Interceptions were conducted against three unknown aircraft emitting chaff in the Frankfurt area. All aircraft were identifies friendly and were part of exercise "Big Bird". Zulu aircraft were scrambled live for an unknown track in the ADIZ – two aircraft at 46,000 feet with a ground speed over 500 knots. Identification turned out to be two aircraft from the same Wing, supposedly on local flying.
22 Feb 57
Normal operations.
23 Feb 57
Weather poor – little operational activity.
24 Feb 57
G/C Boon, RAF, AF North Chief SigO and party visited here.
26 Feb 57
CTSO advised that rotation of the Type 80 at 6 RPM was no longer safe and recommended that 4 RPM be adopted on a permanent basis to ensure serviceability of this gear. This is a result of motor difficulties. The gear now operating on Motor "A" only as end play was discovered in the Thorneycraft drive on Motor "B".
27 Feb 57
Unit on weekly maintenance in AM and all interceptor activity handed over to USAF, British and French CRCs. Normal operations in the afternoon and night periods.
28 Feb 57
Exercise "Bomex" held during night hours employing CF-100 type aircraft against RAF overflying Valiant bombers. A theoretical 50% kill effectiveness was estimated, the primary difficulty was altitude of the bombers.
1 Mar 57
Normal operations.
2 Mar 57
MRP team from John Curren Co. Ltd., arrived and installed new Thorneycraft drive for Motor "B" on Type 80. (Refer to 26 Feb 57 entry).
4 Mar 57
A very active day operationally, with fine weather prevailing throughout the period. Unit was visited by S/L Warren and a Captain JK Kasher of #1 Fighter OUT.
5 Mar 57
Exercise "Bagarre" took place today, with pilots reporting 4 good passes on French Mystere type aircraft who acted as targets for the mission.
6 Mar 57
Normal operations.
7 Mar 57
Weather conditions forced cancellation of two major exercises this date ("Argus" and "Bomex"). Little operational activity. S/L Greenwood and G Def. staff visited and discussed local defence problems with the Commanding Officer.
8 Mar 57
Weather continuing poor – little operational activity. The Commanding Officer attended a handing over parade and luncheon at Fort Plappeville to welcome the new French Air Force area Commander.
11 Mar 57
Centralized control of all fighters invoked by 12AF ACC. No formal explanation given by this action, however, this condition remained only for part of the day, when unit reverted to de-centralized control. Otherwise normal operations. F/O Mahill (CEO/SU) attended a meeting with the Unit Adjutant and CTSO to discuss plans for improvement of the site grounds and provision of sports facilities.
12 Mar 57
Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" conducted with the French Air Force acting as host force when RCAF fighters landed at a FAF base for luncheon and then continued the exercise in the afternoon. Night flying program consisted of AW fighters flying "Harlequin" tactics and 21 day fighters on cross country exercises. G/C Edwards, RCAF Air Attaché at Bonn, visited the unit.
13 Mar 57
Height Finder #2 taken off the air by General Electric personnel from Nancy, France, to study the problem of instability of the MPS-14 gear transmitter from Furstenfeldbruck field in Germany.
14 Mar 57
Interceptor forces at 4 (F) Wing alerted for possible live scramble after a track detected inbound over Austria. Identification performed by USAF fighters from Furstenfeldbruck field in Germany. Unit lost contact with a Zulu day fighter from 2 (F) Wing (Horseman Zulu Papa #2). Aircraft became uncontrollable and crashed killing the pilot. Air Rescue scrambled and vectored to the scene of the accident. Captain MB Cameron and Lt. C Pendley from the 38th Tac Reccon Squadron USAF attended a conference at this unit to discuss Tactical Control problems. Exercise "Bomex" commenced after daylight. Eighty percent results achieved utilizing CF-100 type aircraft as the interceptor force.
15 Mar 57
FS CR O’Connor (CommOp Supv) and FS EH Andrew (FtrCop Sup) were commissioned in the AS/FtrC branch.
16 Mar 57
Normal operations.
17 Mar 57
Weather unfavorable – little operational activity.
18 Mar 57
Mechanical jamming observed in the Frankfurt area, source unknown. Live scramble initiated to investigate but later cancelled. Jamming source and identity was revealed by 12 AF ACC. Report received regarding a round object intercepted by a T-33 in SE England. The object was apparently tracked by radar and showed Mode 5 IFF response. Further intercept attempts failed to reveal the identity of the object except that it was travelling at an estimated speed of 600 knots. No further information available on this rather vague report.
19 Mar 57
Normal operations.
20 Mar 57
Two RCAF F-86 aircraft from 4 (F) Wing intercepted on a live scramble by USAF F-100 aircraft. The two aircraft involved had penetrated a large portion of East Germany. Pilot debriefing revealed that an unexpected wind condition had blown the aircraft off course and pilots stated they were not aware of the penetration. Forward radar sites reported observations of attempted interceptions on these aircraft from the Soviet zone. 12 AF ACC filing violation against the two pilots involved.
21 Mar 57
A series of RAF bombers overflew this unit’s area of radar coverage in an exercise titled "King Pin". 38 successful interceptions were completed utilizing F-86 and CF-100 type aircraft as the interceptor force. Night flying program consisted of all weather fighters under this unit’s control employing "Harlequin" tactics.
22 Mar 57
Normal operations were interrupted by a call from a USAF F-100 aircraft on emergency channel, reporting that he was on fire and bailing out. Unit acknowledged the position and dispatched rescue aircraft to the scene.
23 Mar 57
Normal operations.
24 Mar 57
Landline communications completed to a new RAF Type 80 radar site located in Goch, Germany. Tentative arrangements made with this unit for handover of RCAF fighters.
26 Mar 57
Type 80 gear on emergency maintenance in wee hours (0300) due to Emotrol unserviceability. Further breaking on antenna supports of Height Finder #3 discovered and welding operations carried out on the spot.
28 Mar 57
CF-100 aircraft at 2 (F) Wing placed on status during daylight hours in lieu of the F-86s due to very marginal weather conditions. Later in the day, all CF-100 aircraft were grounded except for "hot" or "live" scrambles due to a suspected mechanical defect. Airman’s Promotion list released. AC&W Squadron personnel promotions to be effective 1 Apr 57 were as follows:
|
WO2 |
FS |
Sgt. |
Cpl. |
FtrCop |
1 |
3 |
6 |
15 |
Radar Tech (G) |
- |
- |
2 |
2 |
Sup Tech |
- |
- |
1 |
1 |
TTOp |
- |
- |
- |
2 |
Comm. Tech (G) |
- |
- |
- |
1 |
PPOp |
- |
- |
- |
1 |
Total |
- |
- |
- |
35 |
29 Mar 57
Extensive handover program of fighters between RCAF and USAF carried out to ensure effective radio channelization and training.
30 Mar 57
"Horseman Zulu Papa" section 2 (F) Wing diverted from a practice mission to a "live status" to investigate an unknown track detected in the ADIZ. Track identified as two French Air Force F-84s.
1 Apr 57
Grounding action on CF-100 aircraft now terminated. Aircraft were grounded on 28 Mar 57 due to a technical fault. Yardarm Zulu Tango, 4 (F) Wing, on live scramble against unknown track in ADIZ – identified as 4 FAF F-84. A further live scramble by 2 (F) Wing aircraft against another unknown – identity this time was a USAF C-47.
2 Apr 57
Normal operations
3 Apr 57
445 Squadron aircraft scrambled to investigate a track in the ADIZ. Identification was a USAF T-33 off track. 12 AF ACC filing violation. Mr. B Paulter, Air Ministry Resident Engineer, who installed unit power plant departed the unit for a new assignment on the UK. S/L Ockenden promoted to W/C effective 15 Mar 57.
4 Apr 57
Exercise "Argus" held during daylight hours involving aircraft from the USAF, RCAF, BAF and FAF. Good training in all phases of operations was achieved with 22 successful interceptions to this unit’s credit. Exercise "Bomex" held later in the day with a total of 43 AI and 6 IDF interceptions against 24 tracks detected by the unit.
5 Apr 57
Height Finder #1 became unserviceable – a broken grease seal in the azimuth rotating joint. New parts being procured from the GE at Nancy.
7 Apr 57
Repairs completed to height finding equipment (Refer to 5 Apr 57).
8 Apr 57
An active day from the operational point of view, with no unusual occurrences.
9 Apr 57
3 (F) Wing aircraft scrambled "live" to investigate a track detected on an inbound heading over Austria at 60,000 feet. Fighters were ordered to break off by 12 AF ACC as the track had a secret classification. This is suspected to be a NACA U-2, previously reported on 30 Oct 56.
10 Apr 57
A new modulator arrived from GE at Nancy and was installed in Height Finder #3. The old modulator was removed and forwarded to Nancy for modification.
11 Apr 57
A live scramble initiated against a low level track detected in the ADIZ. The track faded prior to interception and the fighters reverted to practice status.
12 Apr 57
Unknown track detected over Switzerland on an inbound heading. Aircraft from 4 (F) Wing were scrambled and reported target identification as a USAF C-119.
13 Apr 57
Work completed on replacement of an unserviceable charging reactor in Height Finder #1.
15 Apr 57
Normal operations.
16 Apr 67
A very active day from the operational standpoint. AW and ADF fighters controlled all day and the night flying program ceased just short of midnight. Considerable number of handovers of RCAF to 2 ATAF control was necessary due to a controller shortage at this unit.
17 Apr 57
Another active day operationally with 2 "live" scrambles utilizing Zulu aircraft from 2 (F) Wing. Identity on the first live scramble was a USAF aircraft on the "secret" list, first detected over Austria. No identity obtained on the second interception as the target faded prior to intercept. Flight following for night fliers from 3 and 4 (F) Wings, together with "Harlequin" intercept mission for 445 Squadron.
18 Apr 57
Messrs. Blake (RRE), Dale (Decca), Quill (Marconi) and Lunt (UK Ministry of Supply) and W/C Clarke (Air Ministry) attended a demonstration of cross interference suppression.
19 Apr 57
12 AF ACC directed extra vigilance to be maintained during next few days as a result of a special intelligence report. No unusual occurrences noted this date.
20 Apr 57
Considerable aerial activity observed behind "Iron Curtain" and as a result extra precautions taken with interceptors maintained on highest states of readiness, particularly in view of 19 Apr 57 entry.
21 Apr 57
Operations back to normal as no further incidents observed (reference 19-20 Apr 57 entries).
22 Apr 57
Normal operations. F/O JJ Ralph, new Squadron Adjutant, reported for duty.
23 Apr 57
Active day operationally, with a particularly heavy night flying program, including "Harlequin" tactics.
25 Apr 57
"Live" scramble to investigate unknown track detected in the ADIZ. Identified as a Dutch AF F-84.
26 Apr 57
Type 80 gear unserviceable for one hour early today as a result of a faulty trigger unit. Further cracking of antenna on Height Finder #1 discovered and welding operations took place immediately.
30 Apr 57
Further tests conducted on height finding gear to determine the causes of transmitter instability when operating on 270 prf. Active day operationally with a heavy night flying program.
1 May 57
The magnetron on the MPS-11 gear replaced after 10132 hours of operation.
2 May 57
Operations highlighted today by exercise "Bomex". The exercise was considered a success from the GCI standpoint except that interceptors experienced difficulty with the "Valiant" type bombers who flew their mission well above 50,000 feet.
3 May 57
Normal operations
4 May 57
Unit Volleyball team participated in RCAF (Europe) tournament at 1 (F) Wing, Marville. The team placed second in the final standings and brought back a handsome silver cup for their efforts.
5 May 57
Type 80 gear off the air for installation of the following modified units: Control Unit 923, Oscillator Unit 4145, Amplifying Unit 4144, and Panel Distribution Unit 905.
6 May 57
Unit visited by personnel of the External Affairs Department and were given a complete unit tour by the Commanding Officer.
7 May 57
Unit honoured today by the first official visit of the RCAF CAS. Following a brief inspection, a special operational demonstration was given for the CAS and visiting party.
8 May 57
A flight of 4 RCAF aircraft from 1 (F) Wing inadvertently overflew the ADIZ and 12 AF ACC filing violation. Otherwise normal day operationally. The Commanding Officer proceeded to 1 ATAF HQ, Goch, Germany, to attend an Air Defence Radar Panel meeting. Message dispatched to 12 AF HQ advising that due to controller shortage at this time, no further controllers from this unit would participate in the Wheelus AFB Lead Collision Course training until the fall of 1957.
9 May 57
Two exercises held this date. Exercise "Argus" during daylight hours and Exercise "Bomex" at night. A total of 15 interceptions were completed against the "Argus" raids and 20 interceptions were logged against "Bomex". Both exercises proved to be very beneficial from the standpoint of operational training. Two "live" scrambles initiated against unknown tracks. The first scramble reverted to practice inasmuch as the track was identified prior to intercept. The 2nd interception carried out to conclusion, and identified as a USAF B-57. F/O Ralph, the new Squadron Adjutant, proceeded to 1 Officers School London Ontario to attend a 6 week course.
10 May 57
Exercise "Bagarre" held today with French Air Force Mystere type aircraft providing the target force, whereas RCAF F-86s from Marville comprised the interceptor force. Two successful attacks were made by the Mysteres. Mechanical jamming observed in the eastern sector and the source was identified as USAF by 12 AF ACC – no tactical action required.
11 May 57
Normal operations.
12 May 57
Activities highlighted by the arrival of 440 CF-100 Squadron at 3 (F) Wing under operation titled "Nimblebat III". Five sections of aircraft from 3 (F) Wing intercepted the arriving force on the final leg of their inbound journey.
13 May 57
Considerable practice jamming (mechanical) carried out and observed on the unit radar. Unit instrumental in the safe recovery of two RAF Hunter type a/c in distress. Aircraft were lost and one of the section had a flameout. The flight was pinpointed and recovered at Marville.
14 May 57
An active day operationally with multiple handovers to USAF and French CRCs. Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" held with FAF. Close control and flight following for night fliers from #1, 2 and 4 Wing.
15 May 57
This unit on weekly maintenance during the morning and as a result all RCAF control handed over to USAF and FAF CRCs. Subsequent to the maintenance period, unit accepted control of a flight of USAF F-100 aircraft on a "live" scramble for a track in the ADIZ. Track identification – 4 RCAF F-86.
16 May 57
"Live" scramble against unknown track by Strongbox Zulu Romeo 3 (F) Wing identified as allied. Active day with a heavy night flying program, particularly AW fighters on "Harlequin Tactics".
17 May 57
Eight successful interceptions completed against RAF bombers overflying unit’s area of radar coverage. 3 (F) Wing aircraft scrambled "live" o investigate an unknown track in the ADIZ. The interception was not competed as the track faded prior to intercept. Major MacIsaacs, HQ 4 ATAF visited the CO to discuss Air Defense Synthetic Exercises proposed for future operations. The Honorable ID Wilgrees, Canada’s Ambassador to NATO visited the unit and was given a tour of the site by the Commanding Officer.
18 May 57
Numerous RCAF aircraft participated in fly past activities over USAF installations to commemorate American Armed Forces Day.
19 May 57
Normal operations.
20 May 57
Mechanical jamming observed and identified source as a practice mission by the USAF. Otherwise normal operations.
21 May 57
Unit attempted to intercept high flying RAF bombers utilizing F-100 type aircraft. The mission with the F-100s was abandoned due to radio failure, however, the flight of RCAF fighters being vectored onto the same target simultaneously were able to effect positive identification. Exercise "Tuesday Scrimmage" held with FAF as the host force. Sabre pilots reported some difficulty dog fighting with the Mysteres and attributed this to the fact that the Sabres were at a disadvantage with external fuel tanks. Flight following provided to night fliers from all four wings with close control for AW aircraft from 2 (F) Wing. F/Os Andrew and O’Connor departed for new assignments to Canada. Tests carried out to modify APX 6 IFF equipment to attempt to gain partial selective identification benefits from the present equipment. No immediate test results available.
22 May 57
Mechanical jamming observed in Eastern sector of unit surveillance area. The jamming source identified by 12 AF ACC as a "Dew Drop" mission. 12 AF ACC rescinded unit scramble prerogative until further notice. This restriction cancelled later in the day. All three CF-100 squadron on night flying. Unit accepted as many as possible for close control and handed over remainder to adjacent USAF and RAF CRCs for control. Unit visited by W/C Clark, AFHQ Messing Officer to carry out inspection of unit messing facilities. G/C Costello, Director of Religious Administration (RC) also visited the unit this date.
23 May 57
Unit experiencing difficulty in providing the required close control to all RCAF aircraft scheduled for this type of work. This date alone for example, eight sections flew without any close control. Negotiations underway however to schedule Wing flying in a manner that would provide the required control under a strict schedule basis. It is proposed to provide one controller and one scope for each of the four wings during daylight hours, and it would then be the responsibility of the wing concerned to schedule unit flying to fulfill Wing requirements in this regard. AFHQ Personnel Team consisting of four officers visited the unit. They discussed airmen’s careers with the CO and were provided with a guided tour of the unit.
24 May 57
An exercise to practice the Air Defence of the United Kingdom under conditions anticipated in the initial stages of a global war commenced this date. The Exercise was nicknamed "Vigilant" and included considerable participation by No. 1 Air Division forces.
25 May 57
Exercise "Vigilant" continues with this unit providing flight following and recovery to RCAF participating aircraft. Direct telling instituted in early warning tell exercise track information from this unit to responsible units in the United Kingdom.
26 May 57
"Live" scramble against an unknown track detected in the ADIZ. Two sections from 4 (F) Wing on this mission, however, track was identified friendly prior to intercept by 12 AF ACC and our fighters were ordered to revert to practice status. Exercise "Vigilant" as per 25 May entry. F/L Ford and F/O Zoltvany departed the unit for new assignments in Canada.
27 May 57
Exercise "Vigilant" terminated at 1615Z. All RCAF aircraft returned to base.
28 May 57
Exercise "Scan Plan" and day fighter intercept practice during daylight hours with close control for 1 and 2 (F) Wing AW fighters. Flight following for 421 Squadron day fighters on night cross country exercise. Normal operations interrupted when an aircraft in emergency was observed in 3 (F) Wing area and immediate action taken to render assistance. The aircraft crashed almost immediately and as a result assistance was not possible. Identification later revealed the aircraft was a 3 (F) Wing T-33, VC 020. The pilot was killed instantly and arrangements made for recovery of pilot by 3 Wing. AVM Kennedy, AFHQ Comptroller, together with G/C Emond visited the unit.
31 May 57
A Russian TU-4 (5 U 5423) on a special flight plan (Moscow – Paris) was tracked from pick up point in "Iron Curtain" area. The aircraft was originally detected at 0640Z and faded over Paris at 0724Z.