97/Armstrong Crew: David, training course photos x 2
Name/Title
97/Armstrong Crew: David, training course photos x 2Entry/Object ID
2023.1082Description
Paul David, RCAF, bomb aimer, 97 Squadron. Course 39, Portage La Prairie. (2 images).Context
Two identical class photographs dated 2 January 1942, but with differently organised signatures on the back. Although not entirely clear, it appears that Paul David is to the right of the commanding officer, front row, seven from the left. Course 39 was run by No.7 Air Observer School, part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. According to David's service record, he had arrived at 7AOS on 20 November 1941, so the course must have commenced shortly afterwards. The airmen's country of origin is given with their signatures on the photograph, and there is a surprisingly large number of New Zealanders given the small percentage of RNZAF personnel flying with the RAF. Portage la Prairie is a small city in the Central Plains, Manitoba, Canada. Paul David would remain at 7AOS until 15 March 1942. After other training courses, he would embark for England on 19 July 1942 and arrive there on 29 July 1942. He would begin active war service after the Armstrong crew's posting to 97 Squadron on 18 April 1943. (Details from Paul David's service record, Canadian National Archives.) Donated by Claude David.Collection
RAF Dominion Air Forces, colonial aircrew, Allied aircrew, RAF Training, YPDAV - Paul David CollectionCategory
QRP: Formal or group photographs