A SPECIAL memorial lecture, presented by Gary Dean, was attended on Tuesday, January 20 by members and guests of the Boscombe Down Aviation Collection to reflect on the life and work of Gp Capt 'Sam' McKenna.
Sam was the second Commandant of the Empire Test Pilots School at Boscombe Down and a well respected and highly experienced test pilot with an illustrious career during which time he tested a wide range of British and American aircraft, including the prototype of the Spitfire.
He was tragically killed in January 1945 when his Mustang aircraft developed serious problems during a high speed test flight and he crashed just a few miles from Old Sarum.
As a mark of their respect and affection for Sam, his colleagues and friends produced a trophy – The McKenna Trophy - which is presented each year to the best test pilot on the Empire Test Pilot course at Boscombe Down at their annual dinner.
For further information of other lectures and events at The Boscombe Down Aviation Collection email hugh.sillett48@btinternet .com or call the collection on 01722 323636
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