Firefighters save WW II plane crash site from West Dalhousie wildfire

Firefighters in West Dalhousie, N.S., have recently saved a memorial dedicated to two Royal Air Force airmen who lost their lives in a fatal World War II plane crash from a nearby wildfire. This act of heroism ensured that a tangible piece of Nova Scotia’s wartime history was preserved for future generations.

The memorial, located in a remote area, commemorates Pilot Officer James Gerald Brown, 20, and Flying Officer Hugh Edward McCann, 21, who tragically died during a training exercise in 1944 while flying a de Havilland Mosquito B Mk XX bomber aircraft. The crash site, known as the “Plane Crash Trail,” is scattered with metal components of the aircraft, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the war.

During a wildfire briefing, Dave Steeves from the Department of Natural Resources highlighted the importance of the site and praised the efforts of firefighter Cory Isenor, who carefully removed a cross bearing a plaque with the airmen’s names to protect it from the encroaching flames. The site’s significance was further emphasized by Glen Gaudet of the Wartime Heritage Association, who emphasized the historical importance of the memorial in preserving the memory of those who served under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.

The de Havilland Mosquito B Mk XX, nicknamed the Wooden Wonder for its unique construction, was a vital aircraft used in combat during World War II. The crash site, with its remote location, provides a poignant reminder of the war’s impact on Nova Scotia and the sacrifices made by those who trained in the area.

This remarkable rescue of a historical site serves as a testament to the bravery and dedication of the firefighters who put their lives on the line to protect Nova Scotia’s heritage. The preservation of the memorial ensures that the legacy of those who served and sacrificed during World War II will continue to be remembered and honored for years to come.