24 Radio Unit - Tignish, PEI

Summary of History - National Archives of Canada

The construction of buildings for the Royal Canadian Air Force at Tignish, PEI, commenced on 16 September 1942. Members of No 24 Radio Detachment (redesignated Unit in September 1944) began reporting for duty at the site in January 1943, but they were billeted in Tignish until early April. Most of the barrack accomodation was ready for occupation during March. The strength on 30 April 1943 was two Officers and 52 Other Ranks; on 31 July it was two Officers and 73 Other Ranks.

The role of No 24 Radio Detachment was to provide early warning of the approach of hostile aircraft or surface vessels. It was a part of the early warning system on the east coast of Canada. The unit also monitored the flight of friendly aircraft. Work on the erection of the radar tower was started early in April and was completed on 18 April. The radar equipment was installed by 11 May and the detachment was operating efficiently one week later. On 21 July 1943 aerial masts for Wireless Telegraphy were erected. A new Omni-Directional Beacon was erected on 2 October. On 30 January 1945 it was noted in the Daily Diary that the maximum range for tracking aircraft during the past week had been 172 miles.

Although the war in Europe ended on 8 May 1945, this unit continued to operate. Periodically in June and July many RCAF and United States Army Air Force bombers were plotted returning from England. On V-J Day, 15 August 1945, the date on which the surrender of Japan was celebrated, work at the unit continued normally. No 24 Radio Unit was disbanded effective 14 September 1945.

Directorate of History
National Defence Headquarters
Ottawa, 9 February 1977.