incident/accident in Canada, 3 September 1941, Rodney Boyd Larson

[jossleclercq]

Hello,

Hugh Halliday provided me the great lines of the service career of the above mentioned pilot.

He was reprimanded for low flying over the St Laurent river on 3 september 1941, damaging one of his propellers. He was then posted to the Central Flying School at Trenton.

Can a (canadian ?) forum member elaborate on this incident ? Apparently he landed back OK but I'd like to have confirmation of the type (Anson ?), and any other details about it, and about this pilot. I talked to the family a few years ago, and they mentioned several incidents / accidents, but didn't have any details at all.

A memorial will be unveiled on 15th June at the place of crash of Lancaster II DS660 he captained during the night 13/14 July 1943, and from which he was the only survivor.

Thanks in advance

Joss

[Dakota]

Salut Joss

The aircraft was Avro Anson Mk. I, s/n 6561 (former R.A.F. s/n W2326) from the Central Flying School at R.C.A.F. Station Trenton, Ontario. The incident took place two miles south-east of Gannonoque, Ontario on the St. Lawrence River

Pilot - J5829 Pilot Officer R. B. Larson

Passenger – J6174 Pilot Officer C. V. Wales

The pair were up doing some instructional flying when Larson carried out un-authorized low-level flying outside of the designated low-flying area. The starboard airscrew struck the water causing Category C ½ damage. The starboard Cheetah engine (s/n 31692) suffered some minor damage as well. This is the only officially recorded incident involving Larson while flying in Canada that I have.

Incidentally Joss, this aircraft was converted to an Anson Mk. IV on the 1st of February, 1943.

Cheers...Chris

[jossleclercq]

Hello Chris,

That's perfect as usual ! Many thanks.

There was probably some "family lore", during the discussion in 2007 with the Larsons.

regards

Joss