Two airplane crashes in Stratford made headlines in June 1918

November is Aviation History Month. Let’s take a look back at a fascinating piece of local aviation history.

During the First World War, the citizens of Stratford witnessed two plane crashes within a span of only three days. On June 15, 1918, Flight Lieut. Henry and Sgt. Whittacker of the Royal Air Force crashed to the earth from a height of about 75 feet and narrowly escaped with their lives. Henry, who had family in Stratford, and Whittacker, an aircraft mechanic, were travelling from the Beamsville Aerodrome and had been making great time, reaching Stratford in only an hour and a half. The aerodrome was an important airfield during the First World War, and was established as a flying school for pilots.

Upon arriving in Stratford, Henry and Whittacker caused quite a stir since they had been flying close to the ground before landing at the Stratford........

© Sarnia Observer