The Wrath of Mother Nature
It was not unusual to experience damage at Pinetree Line radar stations due to high winds. What is unusual is the apparent lack of a compiled document that provides details indicating "what happened, where, and when". This file contains a summary of "significant" Pinetree Line radar station "wind damage" that is known, and documented, to have occurred in Edgar, ON.
The following detail has been taken from the Narrative Reports for RCAF Station Edgar.
22 Nov 56
Due to gale force winds, the AN/FPS-6 was shut down and the antenna lashed down to prevent damage to the assembly. This was the first occasion that this had been necessary since the installation of the equipment. Upon reassembly of the antenna it was discovered that the connecting rod was slightly damaged. This was replaced. (Pinetree Line web site note: It should be mentioned that the FPS-6 height finder did NOT have a radome as protective cover at this time).
23 Nov 56
AN/FPS-6 again operational after winds had dropped.
There is no doubt in my mind that there have been other examples of "significant" Pinetree Line "wind damage" which has taken place. As an example, I keep hearing about the Saglek situation – where their height finder was an apparent victim. This unit was located at the edge of a 1,800 foot cliff – so you can imagine the damage to any radar equipment that "went over the side". I continue to hope that some day, some one will provide some "official detail" – and then we will be able to add this occurrence to our list.
If you have any knowledge of other "significant" Pinetree Line "wind damage", please help us out and pass the detail to us – via an email message. Many thanks.