The Canadian Forces base located in Winnipeg celebrated a milestone birthday on Tuesday.
CFB Winnipeg, also known as 17 Wing, turned 100 years old – marking a century of providing operational and logistical support to more than 100 units.
Throughout its history, CFB Winnipeg has played an important part in the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, as well as in search and rescue operations. It’s also home to Canadian NORAD’s regional headquarters and is preparing to offer aircrew training.
“CFB Winnipeg is incredibly important to the history of the air force,” said Col. Jody Hanson, CFB Winnipeg base commander.
“It started out as a small air station here in the city, but over the years it transformed in many ways throughout the different world conflicts.”
Hanson noted the air base is made up of about 3,000 members, adding that, along with their family members, they make a significant impact on Winnipeg and its local communities.
“Our folks are hockey coaches, they’re dance instructors, they’re volunteers in our community. We contribute to all those different factors in the city of Winnipeg, as well,” she said.
Throughout the year, members will wear 100th anniversary morale patches.
CFB Winnipeg is also hosting a number of events to mark the occasion, including a gala dinner and Freedom of the City parade.
