400 (RCAF) Sqn operating as OTU

[SteveB]

Thanks Bill

I have wondered whether these photos actually show aircraft from No 41 (Army Co-operation Command) OTU. This unit employed Mustangs and during 1942 (up to November 1942) was based at Old Sarum and Oatlands Hill. Both these airfields are probably within 10 to 12 miles to the West of Middle Wallop.

Steve

[Atcham Tower]

I agree with Steve on this, they are more likely to be 41 OTU aircraft. Sadly, the man who could confirm this and any 400 Sqn involvement, Wing Commander (Retd) David Annand, is no longer with us. He was Chief Instructor at 41 OTU at that time and later moved with the unit to Hawarden. A great character, much missed.

[terry mac]

Originally Posted by SteveB

Thanks Bill

I have wondered whether these photos actually show aircraft from No 41 (Army Co-operation Command) OTU. This unit employed Mustangs and during 1942 (up to November 1942) was based at Old Sarum and Oatlands Hill. Both these airfields are probably within 10 to 12 miles to the West of Middle Wallop.

Steve

Hi Steve ,
I've just looked through list of serials. A total of 135 Mustang I were used by 41 OTU plus one MKIA. AG 484 is shown as serving with 41
OTU after previous service with 268 Sq
The only A/C I've found that is listed as serving with 400 Sq prior to service with 41 OTU is AG404. AG367 is listed as having served on 26 Squadron prior to serving on 41 OTU
Cheers
Terry

[SteveB]

Gentlemen

Thanks for your contributions and tentative confirmation of my theory. I was hoping for chapter and verse from Canada but I think I am sticking with the 41 OTU interpretation at the moment.

"Atcham Tower"

I have got a copy of David Annand's logbook from the RAFM and he did in fact fly AG484 at 41OTU on 6/7/42 but he does not record AG367.

Steve

[Bill Walker]

I had been leaning towards these being OTU aircraft operated by 400 Squadron pilots, but couldn't prove it. Partly this resulted from conversations with post war British Army pilots, who talked about Old Sarum and Middle Wallop as being basically two parts of the same facility (at least in the 1960s).

[SteveB]

Thanks again Bill when I get the chance I will try to research the airfields in more detail to see if that adds any helpful detail/confirmation.

Steve