Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace and Defence showcases new exhibit 

The Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace and Defence (CFMAD) at 22Wing/CFB North Bay has opened a new exhibit for its visitors.

Working together with the National Air Force Museum of Canada, the exhibit “Ad Astra: From the Collection of the National Air Force Museum of Canada” showcases 19 hand-picked pieces, just a small glimpse of the massive 400-piece collection located at 8 Wing/Canadian Forces Base Trenton.

Laura Imrie, Curator, National Air Force Museum of Canada says choosing which pieces to include in the showcase with Bethany Aitchison, Curator at the Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence (CFMAD), was a fun challenge.

 “In the end, she (Bethany) chose a great selection that showcases various aspects and time periods of the RCAF, some pieces that highlight individuals within the Air Force, and some that relate to the mission of 22 Wing/Canadian Forces Base North Bay,” says Imrie.

By partnering with the NAFMC, local community members who may not have an opportunity to travel to Trenton.

“Having temporary exhibits gives us the opportunity to showcase things that may not normally be on display, for any number of reasons. Since this is artwork that is on loan from a museum several hours away, it allows us to invite our local community to connect with NAFMC, who they might not necessarily be able to visit, and allows us to showcase the powerful network of RCAF museums across the country,” says Aitchison.

Visitors will be introduced to portraits, a variety of different generations of military aircraft, and other military pieces. 

CFMAD already has plans to partner with other museums, including another RCAF museum later this year. Aitchison hopes they can continue collaborating and sharing diverse and fascinating history Canadians share.

The museum is currently open Saturdays from noon – 4 p.m. or by appointment or group booking throughout the week. 

Ad Astra: From the Collection of the National Air Force Museum of Canada will be on display until May 2020. 

General admission is by donation and guided tours of the full museum are available for a fee.

For more information visit here.