Laubman Street was dedicated by the Canada Lands Company on December 10, 2013, as part of their redevelopment of Edmonton’s former Canadian Forces Base (Griesbach Barracks).
Born in Provost, Alberta in 1921, Don Laubman was captivated by aviation at an early age. After his family moved to Edmonton, he would head to the city’s airport to watch the aircraft. When the Second World War broke out in 1939, he enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Don was posted back to Canada when his tour ended, but managed to arrange for another overseas posting, this time in command of 402 Squadron. During his wartime service he destroyed 15 enemy aircraft, all of but one between June and October 1944. For these and other flying exploits, Don was twice awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Shortly after demobilization, Don re-enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force. His postwar career included postings to 410, 416, and 418 Squadrons. In 1949, he led the Royal Canadian Air Force’s first jet aerobatic team, the Blue Devils. After attending the Royal Canadian Air Force Staff College in 1957, he was promoted to Wing Commander, then to Group Captain, Air Commodore, Major General, and Lieutenant General. Between 1966 and 1969 Don played a key role in implementing the unification of Canada’s armed forces and, in 1970/71, he served as Commander of Canadian Forces Europe. Upon his return to Ottawa, Don ended his career as Chief of Personnel, Canadian Forces Head Quarters.