World War II Glider Training at Harris Hill

At this site in May 1941, the first Air Corps Pilot Officers reported for glider training. The six officers were led by Major Fred R. Dent, Jr., who later directed the development and procurement of military gliders. The Elmira Area Soaring Corp, School provided basic training using Schweizer Aircraft Corp, two-place gliders. Maj. Gen. H.H. “Hap” Arnold, Chief of the Air Corps, visited several times to learn about gliders as preparation for the military glider program. Civilian and military personnel here contributed significantly to this World War II program.

Big Flats, New York · United States