Wegner Point
Posted By SEAN CHASE
schase@thedailyobserver.caAn annual memorial service remembering the seven paratroopers who drowned in the Ottawa River 41 years ago will be held in early May.
The Airborne Regiment Association of Canada will hold the observance on Sunday, May 10 at Wegner Point, the scene of the worst training disaster in Base Petawawa's history. Services begin at 2:30 p. m.
"It was an unprecedented loss of life," says Dennis Stow, a retired soldier who was a drop zone control on the night of May 8, 1968 when 22 paratroopers landed in the frigid waters of the Ottawa River off the shores of Wegner Point. "We can never forget those seven fallen jumpers."
Master Warrant Officer Reginald Riddell, Warrant Officer Michael McDonnell, Cpl. Hugh Fields, Cpl. Bob Knight, Cpl. Dennis Clements, Cpl. Jim Misner and Cpl. Bruce Chiswell died that evening.
The men had served in the 1st Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment and the 2nd Signals Squadron.
This year, family members of the fallen soldiers will include Stephen Fields, son of Cpl. Fields, and the four daughters of Cpl. Knight.
His widow, Marion Knight, may attend the ceremony, added Mr. Stow.
Survivors Ray Clowes and Kenneth Fynn have also confirmed their attendance, however, many more are expected to make the pilgrimage to the memorial cairn which stands on a bluff overlooking the scene of the tragedy.
Retired Brig.-Gen. Donnie Banks, a former commanding officer of the Canadian Airborne Regiment, will be this year's reviewing officer.
A reception will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 517 following the service.
Mr. Stow said last year's benchmark 40th anniversary saw one of the largest attendances to a service.
He expects many this year noting the story of Wegner Point is becoming more wide-known, especially on the Internet.
Sean Chase is a Daily Observer reporter.
