The RCAF’s 100th anniversary is this morning, April 1, and Echo Community Podcast Network is proud to present a special North Bay Echo Essentials episode featuring 22 Wing Commander Col. Richard Jolette and CWO Didier Pignatel.
Host Scott Clark, a former 22 Wing Honorary Colonel 2013-2016, and guests cover the importance and history of the Royal Canadian Air Force, one of the oldest in the world. And they talk about how the RCAF remains a vital support to missions around the globe. Initially, North Bay was tasked to watch the northern horizon and now it has eyes across Canada, including all coasts, diligently watching for threats from each direction and within. “We went from observers with binoculars, whether on the ground or in the air, to satellites,” CWO Pignatel says, referring to the technological transformations, with Col. Jolette explaining that the mission has always been to deter and de-escalate continental incursions. On March 28, the RCAF conducted a flag-raising ceremony at 22 Wing North Bay CFB, home to 21 Aerospace Control and Warning Squadron. Immediately after, they joined municipal representatives to accept a city proclamation commemorating the significant milestone, as well as the air force’s foundations in North Bay.
The city celebrates its 100th anniversary of incorporation next year in 2025. The RCAF presence in North Bay began in 1951 as part of the bi-national aerospace defence of North America with the NORAD North Bay and a series of fighter aircraft units for four decades. Centennial celebrations are planned throughout the year: A military gala is taking place April 18 in one of the Voyageur Aviation hangars, formerly used by the RCAF. Armed Forces Day in North Bay is June 19 and they are going all out by featuring the Snowbirds, Skyhawks and CF-18 Jets. Expect more special recognition at the Battle of Britain ceremonies in September and on Remembrance Day. RCAF members are also wearing a 100th RCAF patch on their uniform sleeves throughout the year.
See the North Bay Museum for background: https://www.northbaymuseum.com/gatewaytothesky/blog-post-title-four-rsxm4-hn5r3-lfmyw
For a full history of the RCAF, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/history-heritage.html
To check out the Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence at 22 Wing CFB: https://www.aerospacedefence.ca/
To North Bay With Love
By The Echo Podcast Network