Celebrate Air Force centennial by lighting your building blue

This city has a rich history when it comes to Canada's Armed Forces, and 22 Wing a CFB North Bay plays a prominent role here.

According to the DND, RCAF Station North Bay opened on September 1, 1951, part of Canada’s new national air defence network, built in response to the Cold War threat from the Soviet Union.

On April 1 the RCAF will celebrate its official Centennial. For a century it has defended Canada, its people, allies, and interests.

In celebration of the Centennial and commemoration of the men and women who have, and continue to, serve Canada at home and abroad, famous landmarks , city halls, businesses, embassies, and residences across the world will be illuminating in blue on April 1.

Currently over 300 landmarks in 20 countries are confirmed to be participating in the illumination campaign. In Canada, this includes the CN Tower , Montreal Tower, Calgary Tower, Vancouver Sails of Light , Esplanade Riel , and Niagara Falls. In the coming weeks, more landmarks and countries are expected to join the illumination campaign.

"We encourage Canadians across the country to join in this campaign, and light up their cities, businesses, and homes in blue, and to share photos on social media using the hashtags #RCAF100 and #100YearsOfFlyingBlue, in support of the Royal Canadian Air Force, and its staff."

In North Bay, a flag-raising ceremony and proclamation in recognition of the Royal Canadian Air Force Centennial will see Mayor Peter Chirico on hand to recognize and thank members of the RCAF on Thursday, March 28, at 10 a.m. in Leger Square, outside City Hall.

The RCAF is also collaborating with Guinness World Records, and will attempt to break the world record for most landmarks illuminated in 24 hours. The Guinness World Record attempt is just one of many ways the Royal Canadian Air Force will be celebrating its centennial.

Over the spring and summer, events like air shows, the RCAF Run, gala balls, and commemorative tree plantings will take place across Canada and the world, to celebrate the RCAF's 100th anniversary. For more information on these events, please visit the RCAF 2024 Centennial website .

RCAF Station North Bay was renamed CFB North Bay in 1963 and was previously home to aircraft – including No. 3 All-Weather (Fighter) Operational Training Unit. It was the world’s most advanced air defence flying training school. Over the years the base was home to 430 Day (Fighter) Squadron, 445, 419, 433 and 414 All-Weather (Fighter) Squadrons.

In 1992, 414 Squadron left the base, airfield structures were sold or demolished and CFB North Bay became the only air base with no aircraft or airfield.