ATA Girls
Heroes Remember
ATA Girls
Transcript
Description
Mr. Sproule remembers his surprise at seeing a female fighter pilot, and praises the abilities of the Air Transport Auxiliary.
Frederick Howard Sproule
Mr. Sproule was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, on September 22, 1918. He first served as a cadet with the Seaforth Highlanders before joining the regular service. He switched to the air force as soon as he was able, first being accepted as a gunner, and then into pilot training. After serving as a flight instructor on Harvards, Mr Sproule was shipped to Great Britain where he trained on a Hurricane. Eventually, he piloted a Typhoon as a bomber in the Burma Campaign, helping to drive back the Japanese. His tour finished as the Japanese were completely driven out of Burma.
Meta Data
- Medium:
- Video
- Owner:
- Veterans Affairs Canada
- Duration:
- 02:13
- Person Interviewed:
- Frederick Howard Sproule
- War, Conflict or Mission:
- Second World War
- Location/Theatre:
- Scotland
- Branch:
- Air Force
- Units/Ship:
- 186 Squadron
- Rank:
- Supernumerary Flight Lieutenant
- Occupation:
- Pilot
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Mr. Sproule recalls his disappointment in being posted as flight instructor, rather than being posted overseas, and explains why it was necessary.
Flight Training Accidents
Mr. Sproule recalls some dangerous incidents during his time as a flight instructor at Uplands Airport in Ottawa.
Flying on Fumes
Mr. Sproule recalls a mission during which his Typhoon suffered a mechanical failure, placing him in quite a predicament.
Mid-Air Engine Failure
Mr. Sproule remembers experiencing a mid-air engine failure in a Typhoon during a test flight.
Camouflaging Sound from the Air
Mr. Sproule recalls being detailed to provide camouflage for the Army who was crossing a river - driving back Japanese from Burma.
Mistaken Identity
Mr. Sproule recalls a near dangerous case of mistaken identity in the jungle of Burma.
Shot on a Bombing Run
Mr. Sproule recalls being hit during a bombing run in Burma.
Duty to Defend, and Youth Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice
Mr. Sproule expresses his opinions on one's duty to defend one's Country, and the young ages of Allied Airmen who paid the ultimate price.
Remembrance Day
Mr. Sproule reflects on what Remembrance Day means to him.
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