RCAF Aerodrome Vulcan Memorial Plaque

[upper plaque/plaque du haut]

RCAF Aerodrome Vulcan

During World War II, over 1000 allied students received advanced flight training at the Vulcan Aerodrome under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP). The BCATP was one of Canada's most important contributions to the War. Under the Plan, aircrew training schools were established by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) throughout Canada. Trainees were from Canada, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand and other Allied countries.

Located on this site were:

No.2 Flying Instructor School (FIS)
August 3, 1942 - May 3, 1943

Pilot instructors were trained at No.2 FIS to instruct at other flying training schools. This was the first flying instructor school in western Canada and one of three in Canada.

No.19 Service Flying Training School (SFTS)
May 3, 1943 - April 14, 1945

Students of no.19 STFS trained on twin engine Anson II aircraft and, upon graduation, were mainly destined for Royal Air Force Bomber Command in England.

Vulcan Aerodrome data:
50 20 North Latitude
113 21 West Longitude
Elevation - 3400'
Section 10, Township 16, Range 25, West of the 4th Meridian
Runway Data:
2-20, 3125' x 150'
8-26, 3100' x 150'
14-32, 3100' x 150', Hard Surfaced

There is little left to remind us of the aerodrome's glory days. Many buildings were removed or dismantled, and the runways are slowly being reclaimed by prairie grasses. Memories, however, will remain as long as we continue to hold the torch for those who fought and died for freedom.

This marker is dedicated to those who trained or served at the Vulcan Aerodrome, and to the memory of those who made the supreme sacrifice in defence of their countries and democracy.

Dedicated July 2000

A project of No.2 FIS and No.19 SFTS Millennium Memorial Committee of the County of Vulcan Economic Development and Tourism Guild with assistance from:
Alberta Historical Resources Foundation
Vulcan County
Town of Vulcan
Harvest Foundation
No.783 Calgary Wing Royal Canadian Air Force Association
The Generous Public

Per Ardua Ad Astra

[lower plaque/plaque du bas]

The Base of this monument contains portions of the original Guard House which was located on the monument site.