In February 1945 an RAF Glider Pick-up Unit moved into RAF Zeals and commenced training in preparation for duties with 'Tiger Force' against the Japanese. Aircraft fitted with a hook and winch would fly low and snatch up the glider's tow rope allowing it to be retrieved from the landing ground.
At the completion of the first training course on 19 February 1945, the air and ground crew took off in Dakota TS436 to return to their home base at RAF Leicester East. The aircraft struck cloud-covered trees atop Beech Knoll, within sight of the airfield, killing all on board, except the pilot who died later of severe injuries.
A local man unsuccessfully attempted to have a memorial erected. WHMS later agreed to take on the project. The National Trust who own Beech Knoll were approached and kindly gave permission for the memorial to be placed on the hill top. WHMS then traced relatives and former colleagues of those who died, some of whom where Australian and Canadian. Those contacted, together with the local community funded the memorial.
On 14 August 1999 a dedication and unveiling ceremony took place, in the presence of 150 relatives and guests.
The memorial was unveiled by Air Chief Marshal Sir John Gingell GBE, KCB, KCVO RAF and the dedication was conducted by Canon F Davey, a former WWII Coastal Command navigator. The RAF was represented by Wg Cdr John Barras OC 30 Squadron, RAF Lyneham. The Royal Australian Air Force by SqnLdr Greg Shaw and the Royal Canadian Air Force by Capt Kirk Bennett.
The 'Last Post' was played by an RAF bugler and Dakota N47FK of the Dakota Club, based at North Weald, carried out a fly-past.
Beech Knoll is 1.5 miles east of Zeals off the B3092 road to Frome at OS 183/ST792348