Flight Lieutenant Harry Deane MacDonald Memorial Building and Plaque

[building/immeuble]
THE
FLIGHT LIEUTENANT MACDONALD
FLIGHT SIMULATOR BUILDING

ÉDIFICE
CAPITAINE D’AVIATION MACDONALD
SIMULATEUR DE VOL

[plaque]
Flight Lieutenant Harry Deane MacDonald
DFC & Bar

Harry Deane MacDonald enlisted in the R.C.A.F. in August of
1940 at the age of 20. He received his wings as a Sergeant and left for
overseas duty in May of 1941.

Six months later while flying Spitfires, he tasted combat for the first
time when he damaged an ME. 109. In May of 1942 he was commissioned
to Pilot Officer and posted to 53 Operational Training Unit. His absence
from operational flying did not last long for by February 1943 as a newly
promoted Flying Officer, and a member of 403 Squadron, he damaged an
additional two FW. 190’s. It was with the Wolf Pack that F/O MacDonald
took his toll upon the enemy. Indeed, by May of 1943 he had shot down
five enemy aircraft, and was promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant.

F/L MacDonald was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in June
of 1943 with his citation reading: "he displayed outstanding keenness."
Shortly thereafter, as acting Deputy Commanding Officer of 403 Squadron,
he earned a Bar to his DFC for leading the Squadron on ten sorties and on
one occasion the entire Wing. On 28 October 1943 with a total of eight
aircraft shot down, F/L MacDonald was transferred to 401 Squadron.

Two days later while flying off the coast of Holland, the engine of his
Spitfire quit. F/L MacDonald glided to with 30 miles of England, but
while attempting to bale out, became stuck in the tiny cockpit. The aircraft
crashed into the sea.

It is in memory of this gallant pilot and 403 Squadron member, to
which this building is dedicated.