BACKGROUND INFORMATION FROM DALE RUSSELL My late father was stationed at Uplands when the movie was made.  He was a Flight Sergeant in the aero-engine trade.  Earlier, in March the year the movie was made, Harvard 2689 endured a Category B crash and was sent to Noorduyn for repairs. 

Apparently it was returned to Uplands shortly before the movie was filmed.  Probably because it had been freshly painted it was featured in some of the PR photos taken for the movie. 

My Dad was seconded to the film people to assist with the production and, as a result was given one of the 10 directors chairs that Warner Brothers gave to RCAF members.  I have a list of the other recipients for those interested -- most of the others were commissioned members. 

I am including a photo of Harvard 2689 shortly after the March crash. My Dad is standing in the foreground.  I have also attached a few photos of the chair which I still have in my possession. 

I am also attaching the correspondence between Warner Bros. and the RCAF that resulted in the gift of chairs. Incidentally, Harvard 32689, on the 15 of August 1941 while on a solo night training flight crashed killing LAC H.W. Long.  The aircraft card says, “Aircraft crash after take off (flew into earth) total flying time - 161 hours”.  Aircraft reduced to “spares and produce”. Very sad and, no doubt, one of many. 

Dad, subsequently served overseas with 168 (HT) Squadron and remained in the RCAF postwar.  He died in 1957 while serving as an engineering officer at 1(F) OTU, RCAF Stn. Chatham.

~ David Russell